The best Christmas tree toppers

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• When purchasing a new Christmas tree topper, there are several things to keep in mind, which we detail below. I've always enjoyed looking for the most unique, easiest to position, and best value tree toppers for myself and others.
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• Whether you love an angel, traditional star, or something unique, we have the best Christmas tree topper for you.
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• For more Christmas decorations, check out our guides for the best ornaments for your tree and the best tree skirts you can buy.

A Christmas tree topper holds a special place in holiday decorating. It is the crowning touch to the centerpiece of the season, the Christmas tree.

You may love a star like the Bailey family in "It's a Wonderful Life" or use a cherished family heirloom. I tend to change my tree topper every year or so depending on my mood. While I use many of the same ornaments that I have collected every year because they bring back such strong memories, I like switch out different tree toppers.

When purchasing a new topper, there are several things to keep in mind:

Style: Choose a topper that complements the style and profile of your tree. A star or angel looks good on a conical, full tree. A spire or elongated topper is perfect for a slim, pencil tree.

Height: Know the height of your tree and your ceiling. As a rule, the tree topper should have at least 5 inches of space between it and the ceiling. For example:

Height of tree: 4 to 5.5 feet
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• Recommended topper height: 5 inches
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• Recommended topper width: 3 inches

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• Height of tree: 6 to 6.5 feet
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  • Recommended topper height: 7 inches
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  • Recommended topper width: 5 inches
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• Height of tree: 7 to 7.5 feet
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  • Recommended topper height: 4 inches
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  • Recommended topper width: 4 inches

Support: Determine if your tree can support the weight of your chosen tree topper. Glass toppers are usually the heaviest with paper, plastic, and ribbon toppers the lightest.

Installation: Once you get your topper home, it's time to make sure it is going to stay in place and not tumble to the floor or topple your entire tree. I've had many a tilted topper and even a horizontal tree a couple of times. Both artificial and natural treetops can be reinforced with dowels to make them more sturdy. With artificial trees, several branches can be tied together to support heavier toppers. Use green floral tape to cover any wires or ties to give the tree a more natural look.

Safety: Always think safety first when placing the topper. Use a good stepladder and have someone hold the trunk of the tree in place as you add the topper. If the topper is lighted, use a UL-tested extension cord and weave it through the branches to prevent accidents. Consider using a nonbreakable topper if small children and climbing pets have access to the tree.

I've always enjoyed looking for the most unique, easiest to position, and best value tree toppers for myself and others. Read on in the slides below to discover our top picks in Christmas tree toppers for every decorating style.

Here are the best Christmas tree toppers you can buy: