There are many debates regarding holiday decor, however, the most intense by far regards the key part of a Christmas tree. The decision you make is something your neighbors will pass judgement on as they peer in through your windows, inspecting your tree. And above all, your resolve plays a defining role in setting the ambiance of the room. It may be one of the most important decisions you will make; the choice between colored or white lights for your Christmas tree.

White lights enhance the natural beauty of the tree amongst the crazy array of ornaments hanging up. With so many ornaments sporting different colors and textures, it’s nice to have a clean background of lights to minimize the chaos. Not only does it complement the ornaments, the warm glow emitted sets a peaceful feeling in the atmosphere. It reminds you that behind all the annoying commercialization, Christmas is truly a time for peace and simplicity.

Although white lights were the classic Christmas look, multi-colored lights soon jumped onto the scene and became the biggest contender in this competition. Colored lights scream ‘good morning it’s Christmas!’ as you walk down the stairs early in the morning, immediately brightening up the room. For many, a hint of nostalgia hits them, fondly remembering their childhood Christmas tree completed with a string of colored lights. These festive lights add to the already loud and cheerful decorations many homeowners set up in their house.

But frankly, between the colorful ornaments, general decor, and many different colors flashing for your attention it can prompt a headache simply by looking at it all. Multi colored lights can fall more easily into the trap of the Christmas tree eyesore, prompting your deepest fear- a neighbor’s internal disapproval as they glance across the street at your house.

While white lights are the color of choice for inside the house, the outside is a different story. You need to have the wow factor to light up the bleak darkness and color lights bring that to the table. Since there is no other visible decor at night except for lights, using a variety of colors is the best way to capture people’s attention and illuminate the street. People can mix and match the color lights with the white lights to create the perfect scene.

For those advanced Christmas fanatics, the lights can be set up to represent a theme- a day on the beach with Santa or twinkling stars above snow. Although it’s nice to have the occasional house that goes crazy on the lights, not every house can pull the look off and may look utterly unorganized. It’s best to stick to your strengths, even if decorating lights isn’t one of them. Colored lights in the bushes and a simple white reindeer out front is always a good option.

Ultimately, the lights you choose should work with the background. Warm white lights on the Christmas tree are the best pick to set the mood. But if you choose to venture out in the cold to set up Christmas lights, make sure you purchase a mix of lights to bring the holiday cheer.