Designers Say You Can Skip The Expensive Stores And Get Certain Holiday Staples At Dollar Tree

It can be challenging to make your house feel like a North Pole wonderland when you're working with an elf-sized budget. A Rocket Mortgage and Redfin survey found that about 28% of Americans are planning to spend less on holiday decorations in 2025, with most keeping their decor budget below $100. Luckily, Christmas magic isn't only available at the big box stores or high-end locations like Pottery Barn or Williams Sonoma. 

In addition to the wide range of craft supplies, you can find DIY and elegant, simple holiday decor on a budget. Dollar Tree offers plenty of ready-to-style pieces that serve as designer-approved basics. Interior design experts admit that they love Dollar Tree's tabletop mini trees, faux fur stockings, and charger plates. Scented candles and ribbon rolls are two more versatile staples that designers aren't afraid to pick up at Dollar Tree and incorporate into holiday displays. 

"What I love most about the holiday decor options at Dollar Tree is how you can mix and match everything," interior designer Anna Tatsioni told Apartment Therapy. It's no secret that there are tons of items you can snag from Dollar Tree for festive decor on a budget, but there's a reason why designers love these items in particular for obtaining a high-end look without the expense. It all boils down to texture, layering, and versatility.

A small but mighty essential, Dollar Tree's 18-inch Tabletop Artificial Christmas Trees are only $1.50 each. They're available in traditional green or dazzling white, but it's the white version that really has designers inspired. "The plain mini white trees are a subtle decorator's secret," designer and furniture industry expert Mike Bowman told BestLife. "They provide a quick, elegant, snowy accent. ... Their simple, monochrome look works well in any modern or Scandinavian-style holiday design." A big proponent of texture in holiday displays, Bowman also picked the $5.00 Faux Fur Stockings. "The fluffy texture contrasts beautifully with shiny metallics or rustic wood. It introduces a cozy, layered element to your space," he said.

The layering possibilities for Dollar Tree decor extend to multiple rooms. "I love buying their tabletop items," interior designer Colleen Bennett told Real Simple. "They have great chargers and things like that for tablescapes." Holiday-themed metallic charger plates, like this Cut-Out Glitter Gold Charger ($1.50), are indeed a favorite among multiple designers. Some other items, like the Luminessence Apple Cinnamon Scented Pillar Candle ($1.25) or the Satin Edge Velvet Floral Ribbon ($1.75), may be available year-round at Dollar Tree, but designers recommend grabbing these basics to jazz up more ordinary displays and gifts.

However, not every piece is designer approved, and some affordable items from Dollar Tree can end up looking downright cheap. When you see the low price tags, it can be tempting to load up your basket, but avoid buying any whole collections, which can create a look that's too matchy-matchy. Some interior designers would also recommend that you avoid buying seasonal dishware for every holiday.