Tree Skirt vs Christmas Tree Skirt: What’s the Difference for Your Holiday Setup

Learn the real difference between a tree skirt and a christmas tree skirt, plus sizing tips, material guides, and how to style your full holiday setup with The Fox Decor.

Updated 7 Sep 2026 5 min read 7 sections

The short answer is that a christmas tree skirt is simply a tree skirt designed specifically for the holiday season, but the real difference comes down to materials, patterns, and how you style the base of your tree. Whether you are after a traditional red velvet or a modern burlap finish, choosing the right option defines your entire holiday setup.

What Exactly Is a Christmas Tree Skirt?

A christmas tree skirt is a circular piece of fabric or material that wraps around the base of a holiday tree. It hides the stand, covers loose needles, and creates a finished look for your presents. Most are split so you can wrap them around the trunk without moving the tree.

The Fox Decor tree skirt placed around a Christmas tree base — Tree skirt$38.95Image from the merchant

Our tree skirt collection covers both general and holiday-specific styles, so you can pick what fits your home best. Many of these also double as decorative floor accents year-round if you have a large houseplant or indoor ficus.

Tree Skirt vs Christmas Tree Skirt, What Is the Real Difference?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a practical distinction. A standard tree skirt might be a neutral, everyday piece you use under a potted plant or as a decorative floor mat. A christmas tree skirt is designed with holiday colors, patterns, and materials, think reds, greens, plaids, velvet, or faux fur.

Here is a quick comparison:

Feature	Standard Tree Skirt	Christmas Tree Skirt
Primary use	Plant base, decor accent, floor mat	Holiday tree base, gift display
Common materials	Cotton, jute, synthetic blends	Velvet, faux fur, burlap, felt
Patterns	Solid, neutral tones	Plaid, snowflake, reindeer, vintage prints
Size range	Smaller (28 to 36 in)	Larger (48 to 72 in)
Seasonality	Year-round	Primarily winter holidays

The Fox Decor Christmas tree skirt beneath a festive tree — Christmas tree skirt$129.95Image from the merchant

If you want something that pulls double duty, a neutral christmas tree skirt in white or cream works for both the holiday season and everyday styling. That is why we love the options in our christmas tree skirt line, they bridge the gap between festive and versatile.

Key Materials, Patterns, and Styles to Consider

Choosing the right material affects how your tree looks and how much upkeep you want to deal with.

Velvet and Faux Fur

These add a luxurious, cozy feel. They work well with warm white lights and traditional ornaments. Velvet is low-shed, while faux fur may need occasional vacuuming.

Burlap and Jute

Perfect for a rustic or farmhouse look. Burlap is durable and inexpensive, but it can shed fibers. Pair it with plaid ribbons and wooden ornaments.

Felt and Cotton

Felt is a classic choice for a christmas tree skirt vintage look. It holds up well and hides stains. Cotton skirts are machine-washable, which is a big plus if you have pets or kids.

Popular Patterns

Plaid: timeless and works with almost any color scheme
Snowflakes: pairs beautifully with ornamental snowflakes and icy blue decor
Reindeer or Santa motifs: great for a whimsical, family-friendly setup
Solid white or cream: clean, modern, and versatile

If you are looking for a christmas tree skirt red option, velvet or felt in deep crimson is the most popular choice. For a christmas tree skirt white look, go with faux fur or quilted cotton.

How to Pick the Right Size for Your Setup

Size matters more than most people realize. A skirt that is too small leaves the stand exposed, while one that is too large bunches awkwardly.

General sizing guide:

Trees 4 to 5 ft tall → 36 to 48 inch skirt
Trees 6 to 7 ft tall → 48 to 56 inch skirt
Trees 8 to 9 ft tall → 60 to 72 inch skirt

For a christmas tree skirt large enough to fit an 8-foot tree, look for a 60-inch diameter or bigger. Measure your tree stand width first, the skirt should extend at least 6 inches past the edge of the stand on all sides.

Caring for Your Tree Skirt, Storage and Cleaning Tips

Most tree skirts last for years if you store them properly. Here are a few tips:

Shake or vacuum the skirt before storing to remove dust and pine needles
Fold gently along existing creases to avoid permanent lines
Store in a breathable bin or cloth bag: avoid plastic, which traps moisture
Spot clean velvet or faux fur with a damp cloth; avoid machine washing unless the label says it is safe
Cotton and felt skirts can often be washed on a gentle cycle and air dried

Pairing your skirt with the right accessories, like luminara candles for a warm glow or candle taper holders for a classic dinner table vibe, pulls your whole holiday look together.

Beyond the Tree, Coordinating Your Whole Holiday Look

Your tree base is just one part of the picture. To create a cohesive holiday home, think about how the rest of your space ties in.

Kitchen and Dining

Add kitchen decor like festive dish towels, countertop garlands, and a small evergreen centerpiece. A plaid or red christmas tree skirt naturally connects to holiday kitchen linens.

Entryway and Outdoor Spaces

Your front door sets the tone before guests even step inside. Use outdoor decor such as wreaths, lighted garlands, and a box letter box decorated with a small bow or sprig of greenery.

Living Room Accents

Layer pillar candle holder sets in varying heights on your mantel. Group them with candle taper holders for a classic candelabra look. If you have a united states of america rug in a neutral tone, it can anchor the room without competing with the tree skirt.

Bedrooms

Coordinate your holiday decor into bedrooms with bed skirts in seasonal colors. A white quilted bed skirt paired with a christmas tree skirt red theme creates a clean, festive contrast.

Gifts Under the Tree

The whole point of a tree skirt is to frame your presents beautifully. Use wrapped boxes in coordinating paper and tie on small garden decoration elements like dried orange slices or sprigs of rosemary for a natural touch.

For current pricing and our exclusive 10% OFF code, grab the latest deal before you order. We update the page regularly so you always get the best discount on your christmas tree skirt and matching decor.

Final Thoughts

A christmas tree skirt does more than cover an ugly stand, it anchors your entire holiday display. Whether you choose a simple cotton piece or a plush velvet one, the key is picking a size and material that fits your tree and your home’s style. Browse our tree skirt and christmas tree skirt collections to find the perfect match for your setup this season.

Questions

What is the standard size for a christmas tree skirt?

The standard size depends on your tree height. For a 6-7 foot tree, a 48-inch diameter skirt is common. For larger 8-9 foot trees, look for a 60-72 inch skirt to fully cover the stand.

Can I use a regular tree skirt as a christmas tree skirt?

Yes, any neutral or solid tree skirt can work for Christmas. The main difference is that a dedicated christmas tree skirt usually features holiday colors or patterns like plaid, snowflakes, or velvet fabric.

How do I clean a velvet christmas tree skirt?

Spot clean velvet with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid machine washing unless the care label specifically allows it. Shake out dust and store in a breathable container after the holidays.

What is the best material for a christmas tree skirt that lasts years?

Cotton and felt are the most durable and easiest to maintain. Velvet and faux fur look luxurious but require more careful cleaning and storage to keep them looking new.

Do I need a christmas tree skirt if I have a tree collar?

Not necessarily, a tree collar is a box-like alternative that hides the stand without fabric. A skirt gives a softer, more traditional look and works better if you plan to place presents around the base.

What pattern goes best with a red christmas tree skirt?

Plaid or buffalo check is the most versatile match for red. Solid white or cream also pairs beautifully with red and creates a classic holiday contrast.