Christmas decorations 2023
A glittering glamor trend is returning with tinsel
Tinsel is popular again: With traditional Christmas decorations, the Christmas tree will shine in new splendor this year.
© Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock
Tinsel brings nostalgic sparkle to the Christmas living room. The silver stripes return as a true Christmas classic.
The festive season is just around the corner, and with it a well-known – and long considered outdated – decoration trend is returning: tinsel. This shiny, wafer-thin metal ribbon has been somewhat forgotten in recent years, but is now making a glamorous comeback in our festively decorated Christmas living rooms. So this year we can no longer quote Loriot under the Christmas tree, but have to say: “And today there is more tinsel!”
Why is tinsel used as a glittery Christmas decoration?
What makes these shimmering metal strips so special and why are they becoming increasingly popular again? The origins of tinsel as a Christmas decoration go back to 1610. At that time it was… Nuremberg invented and symbolized icicles on the tree as Christmas decorations. The thin silver strips hung on the Christmas tree reflected the candlelight, creating a sparkling effect.
Traditionally, tinsel is made from tin foil, but since this material can contain lead, the Federal Environment Agency now advises people to make sure to use tinsel without lead. Nowadays, tinsel is mostly made of metallized plastic, which is more environmentally friendly than lead. Many manufacturers now offer sustainable versions that combine the joy of festive decoration with a green conscience.
Take a trip into the past with tinsel
Why is tinsel now returning to our Christmas trees? It evokes nostalgic feelings. Tinsel reminds us of family rituals and happy holidays: For many people, the Christmas season takes them back to their childhood, in which the shiny tinsel played a central role.
What makes tinsel special is its versatility: The thin, glittering stripes go well with any Christmas decor – whether in silver, gold, red, green or crazy colors like pink, copper or colorful.
Tinsel adds subtle glamor to the 2024 Christmas tree. As a decoration, it fits harmoniously into the overall picture of Christmas tree balls, fairy lights and other tree decorations. The shimmering stripes gently reflect light and create an atmospheric atmosphere that perfectly matches the magic of the Christmas season.
Christmas with tinsel is not just a decoration trend, but a journey into the past that fills our festive rooms with sparkle and memories.