We’ve been seeing branches everywhere in our favorite decorating magazines and showrooms. We love branches for their versatility — use them in a traditional living room to hint at a nature-walk-meets-enchanted-forest look, or use them as modern sculpture in a loft.

Stealing this look is easy and definitely cost-effective. First, pick oversized branches (think large sculpture, not small sticks) and clear them of debris before bringing them in the house. Feel free to leave a few leaves if you think they look pretty — these little touches can really make the look.

Be sure to choose a great container. We love branches for their simplicity, but it makes choosing a vase even more important. You’re looking for a large vase with a clear body. Be sure the entire branch is visible and the size doesn’t overwhelm your container. 

We like these pussy willow branches in an iron and glass hurricane — the glass showcases the branch and the rustic iron balances the look. Try branches in this season’s popular bottleneck vases, too.

Extra credit: Create and hang a branch wreath at the holidays, try a large branch instead of a Christmas or Easter tree, or display branches on your mantel with glass or metal ornaments shining from them.