A Childhood Tradition Just Got a Chic Upgrade — Shop Paper Ornaments, the Holiday Trend to Watch Right Now
From humble paper chains to something so much chicer. Shop the origami-inspired ornament trend gracing our trees this season


I have fond memories of crafting homemade paper chains with my family during the holidays. They still hold a certain charm for me, and apparently, I’m not alone in this nostalgia. Paper has undergone a major revival this festive season, but this time in ornament form — a far cry from the simple links of our youth.
Forget the staples, tape, and glue — these paper ornaments are mesmerizingly detailed, ranging from geometric honeycomb shapes to sleek stars and delicate snowflakes. Brands like Anthropologie and Pottery Barn are leading the charge, transforming simple paper into artful, avant-garde ornaments that offer a nice break from the usual glass and ceramic Christmas tree fare.
There are two major upsides to paper ornaments: 1) they’re feather-light — so no droopy branches! And 2) paper is incredibly affordable, so although these are, in many ways, bona fide art pieces, they come at a fraction of the cost of other high-end Christmas tree decorations.
Prepare to fall in love with your favorite family pastime all over again.
Price: $16
While browsing countless paper ornaments for this edit, I came across very few with prints, which is what makes this one from Anthropologie's holiday collection such a standout. Its peachy pink, orange, and moss green palette strikes that rare balance of playful yet refined, and it’s a perfect match for metallic garlands, tinsel, and other ornaments — the more sparkle, the better!
Price: $28
Suddenly, I feel a wave of calm. This muted palette brings a chic serenity to the holiday color scheme — still festive, but elevated. This set of four ornaments breaks down to just $7 each, a great deal given their intricate beauty. They’re so stunning, in fact, they’d make perfect individual stocking stuffers — an unexpected, artful holiday gift.
Price: $2.99
If you’re eyeing these paper ornaments and want an entire collection at an unbeatable price, beeline it for H&M Home. This Art Deco-inspired star is just one of many stylish options; most are under $5.99! I chose this one for its originality—the black hue brings a modern edge that’s perfect for shaking up a treescape. Pro-tip for storage: keep these paper ornaments in a plastic box to protect those delicate points for seasons to come.
Price: $9.95
These Pottery Barn ornaments are proof that glitter truly does make everything better. It adds an extra dimension to their honeycomb design, giving your tree a pop of sparkle. Choose from three festive shapes: a short, wide green, a bulbous red, or a sleek pointed white. My advice? Invest in the bunch. When it comes to Christmas decorating ideas, more is definitely more!
Price: $15.99, Was: $16.99
Paper meets tassels, and it’s pure magic! The long, flowing strands add an elegant, almost YSL-like touch to this intricate ornament design. Granted, this bold fuchsia isn’t for everyone, but the hue is a Christmas trend I’ve been spotting more and more this season. Perfect for the design-forward, the playful, or anyone who loves a pop of daring color.
Price: $39
These West Elm snowflake ornaments are really something special — the photos don’t do them justice. Click through to see for yourself! Sold in a set of nine, each one is unique, just like real snowflakes. The level of detail West Elm has achieved with paper is impressive, especially given the sweet $40 price tag. Act fast, because I have a hunch these beauties won't stay in stock for long.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Formerly covering fashion at L’Officiel USA, style maven Julia Demer brings her love of design to Livingetc’s world of interiors. As the title’s New York-based Style Editor, Julia's work reflects a sharp eye for detail and an innate passion for aesthetics. Her journey began with a strong foundation in design, honing her craft at renowned establishments like The Row and even establishing her own eponymous fashion brand. Julia’s design background is evident in the way she thoughtfully curates shopping edits, always maintaining a focus on emerging trends while preserving timeless sensibilities. For Julia, fashion and interiors go hand in hand, reflecting her lifelong commitment to perfecting the art of style.
-
These Privacy Screens From QVC Are Just What You Need to Make Any Outdoor Space Feel More Secluded
Your outdoor space should feel like a secluded sanctuary. With privacy screens from QVC, you can make that happen in the most stylish way possible
By Devin Toolen Published
-
70s Color Palettes That Work for 2025 — 4 Designer-Approved Color 'Recipes' That Feel Modern Enough for Homes Today
It's time to bring out your paisley print and disco shoes — the golden yellows, olive greens, and deep purples of 70s color palettes are making a comeback
By Olivia Wolfe Published
-
These Privacy Screens From QVC Are Just What You Need to Make Any Outdoor Space Feel More Secluded
Your outdoor space should feel like a secluded sanctuary. With privacy screens from QVC, you can make that happen in the most stylish way possible
By Devin Toolen Published
-
Your Kitchenware Could Use Some Italian Elegance — Get the Look With Crate & Barrel's Tuscan Kitchen Collection
Complete with products all made from sleek, beige marble, this collection captures the rustic charm of Tuscany through practical kitchenware that's simply stunning
By Devin Toolen Published
-
Decorative Table Linens Might Be The Key To Making Your Tablescape Come to Life — A Designer Weighs In
Why settle for bland tablecloths, placemats, and napkins? From now on, we're styling our tables with exciting linens in all sorts of decorative colors and patterns
By Devin Toolen Published
-
These Michael Aram Candles Are Like a Work of Art — I Spent 45 Minutes in Store Finding the Best Fragrances
Aside from a captivating olfactory experience, Michael Aram candles offer a tasteful addition to your home decor through their decorative lids
By Devin Toolen Published
-
Scalloped Jute Rugs Are Having a Moment — I've Just Found the Best One Right Now With $50 Off
This Walmart rug does scallop trim so well. And combined with jute fabric? Consider this the summer rug of my dreams
By Devin Toolen Published
-
Drop the Lighter — This $15 Matchbox Is the Chic Home Accessory You’ll Want to Start Collecting
Meet the conversation-starting, candle-lighting, universal gift you’ll want by the dozen
By Julia Demer Published
-
Stop Hiding Your Clutter — These 9 Patterned Trays Will Instantly Elevate the Mess
Give odds and ends a new, artistic address
By Julia Demer Published
-
Portable Lamps Are Getting Better and Better, But This Anthro One Might Be My Favorite Yet
With its distinctive shape, glossy finish, and practical portability, this lamp is bound to enhance your home decor in more ways than one
By Devin Toolen Published