Best indoor Christmas decorations

Start with the tree. A full artificial pine is the one piece that makes a room feel like Christmas, and the Carolina Pine is the pick: a realistic, floor-standing indoor tree with thousands of ratings behind it, so it's the safest big purchase.

Then build around it:

• A lit accent piece — a small light-up hanging decoration or plush gnome adds warmth on a side table or entry console, and is the easy pick for a kid's room or a gift.
• A garland — the quickest way to dress a mantel or banister without a tree-sized budget; battery versions suit shelves and stair rails with no outlet.
• Wall and window backdrops — fabric door covers and window backdrops give a whole wall a festive look in minutes; best for renters or anyone who doesn't want to store bulky decor.
• Net lights — the practical choice for lighting a mantel garland, indoor railing or window display densely.

If you want a coordinated look, keep the greens in one family so the tree and garland match.