Outdoor Christmas lights ideas: Best icicle, LED, tree and white light inspiration for the festive season
The sight of thousands of twinkling Christmas lights on a house manages to bring us out in seasonal cheer, despite the seemingly never-ending nights.
And nowadays the prevalence of LEDs, rather than traditional incandescent bulbs, means those more is more displays are less National Grid-busting than they once were.
Some people really push the boat out at this time of year — but when it comes to outdoor lights, there's a fine line between sophisticated and silly.
The first step to avoid accusations of silliness is to ensure your outdoor light display is safe by using lights suitable for outside use. That way they'll be able to withstand wet and cold weather and won't cause a power failure.
Beyond that though, your main consideration should be making sure your house looks good.
So, here's how to decorate your house and recreate our favourite Insta-worthy looks with style.
Outdoor Christmas lights for trees
Add warmth to the tree in your front garden with a string of fairy lights. Simple yet sophisticated.
Experiment with outdoor lights in potted plants and hedgerows. Why not team up with your neighbour and hang them between your houses?
Go all out on the big trees. We love the use of colour here to create the illusion of depth and brighten up those dark nights.
LED Christmas lights
Line pathways and roofing with LED lights to highlight the architecture of your home and add a golden glow to your front garden.
Use the same colour of LED lights across the front of your home and garden, and combine with red bows for a traditional festive feel.
Christmas icicle lights
As a safer alternative to lanterns, hang icicle lights in your trees for a magical winter wonderland look.
Line your roof with icicle lights for a classic Christmassy feel that can be reused year after year.
White Christmas lights
Make use of fallen branches by painting them white and wrapping fairy lights around the wood for a super chic look.
Add white lights to your porch and pair with rustic chairs and shutters for the ultimate hygge look.
Christmas wreath lights
Twist warm coloured LED lights through your wreath and door hangings for cosy and cool Scandi vibes.
Add solar or battery powered lights to your wreath along with bunches of cranberries for a truly seasonal look.
Get creative and combine bows, baubles and lights for some stylish festive cheer — don't forget your dog!