Like a cherry on the perfect ice cream sundae or a bow on a beautifully wrapped gift, no Christmas tree is complete without a festive Christmas tree topper! In fact, though it’s often the last item you place on your tree, it should be one of, if not the first, decoration you select. Why? Because a tree topper can set the theme for your entire tree—whether you are going for the most elegant look that could give the Rockefeller tree a run for its money, or the most inviting tree filled with mismatched ornaments crafted by kids and collected from adventures throughout the years.

Need some fresh inspiration for the perfect topper for your tree? We’ve got the most popular types of tree toppers, theme ideas that go with each type, and unique trim and topper ideas as well.

1. Angel tree toppers – Angel tree toppers have ties to the Christian Nativity story, with the Angel Gabriel appearing to Mary to inform her that she would give birth to Jesus. An angel also appeared to a group of shepherds and announced the birth of Jesus. These celestial tree toppers go back to the Victorian era in the mid 1800s. Queen Victoria was said to have brought the first Christmas tree into Windsor Castle and decorated it with angels, tinsel and candles amongst other trim, popularizing the tree topper in England and worldwide. Today, a traditional angel topper still looks heavenly with silver tinsel, classic bulbs and other traditional ornaments, like clear icicles or silver bows. There are also modern angel tree toppers to suit more contemporary themed trees. A variety of Christmas-themed figurines, such as Santa or Frosty the snowman, are popular alternative tree topper choices.

2. Star tree topper – A star on top of the Christmas tree also comes from the Christian story of the Nativity. It symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem, or the Christmas Star, that led the three wise men to Bethlehem to the location where Jesus was born. Today, a star continues to be one of the most popular tree toppers, and there are different styles available to go with any decorating scheme you have in mind. For instance:

• Sparkly star: Lend some glam to your tree by choosing a sparkling, light up star tree topper for your tree. While they look at home on top of an elegant tree with clear lights and matching coordinated ornaments, a glittering star can also bring a bit of sparkle to casual trees.

• Rattan star: Perfect for a farmhouse or Northwoods themed tree, these rustic stars may be created with woven rattan and finished with a neutral color, such as champagne.

• Snowflake: This alternative to a Christmas star is somewhat similar in shape and often features lights, white or silver finish and some sparkles as well.

3. Wrapped up with a bow – Gorgeous bows have become a popular tree topper choice, especially in recent years. They offer several advantages, including the ability to customize your bow from your favorite holiday ribbon and a variety of DIY tutorials. You can create a matching effect by using the same ribbon to decorate your tree, either looping it horizontally, or creating a stripe like effect with vertical loops. Plaid, red and green patterns, sparkly gold and silver patterns, and even burlap ribbon are popular options for different styles of trees.

4. Hats off – Want a charming and unique tree topper? Cap off your tree with a favorite hat. There are many options that suit different style of trees.

• Sport’s cap: A dye-hard fan may choose to showcase their love for their team with a sports cap tree topper, paired with ornaments, ribbon and even lights in their team’s colors.
• Santa’s hat: Want something a little unexpected but still seasonal? A Santa’s cap will look warm and inviting paired with your family’s favorite collection of ornaments, including the kids’ proud creations from school. Opt for an elf’s hat for a fun twist on this theme.
• Top hat: Borrowed from Frosty to “top” off your tree, these classic hats will pair splendidly with timeless gold and red bulbs and clear lights, creating a tree that’s elegant yet unique.

5. Bouquets – Top your natural looking tree with a rustic bouquet, either faux or found from outside. You can adorn the bouquet with ribbon, beads and more. Here are a couple of unique ideas:

• Rustic: A bouquet made of pinecones, greenery and other found items can be the ideal topper for your farmhouse or other rustic-themed Christmas tree. Opt for burlap ribbon to string around your tree and clear lights to enhance the look.
• Tropics: Take a trip to the islands by topping your tree with a bouquet of tropical flowers and ribbon. Repeat the theme by placing single blooms throughout the tree, along with brightly colored bulbs and lights. Mele Kalikimaka!

6. Make it personal – Give your Christmas tree a personalized touch by making or ordering a custom tree topper. Wooden initials make a great topper for a family-friendly tree that’s decorated with all of your heirloom and carefully collected ornaments. You can also showcase your love for hobbies, characters and more with a themed tree topper. The sky, or at least the very top evergreen branch, is the limit!