Seasonal Decorating Ideas: Fall

Fall brings with it crisp air, apple orchards, and bonfires—not to mention myriad decorating options. We’ll never get tired of pumpkins and gourds, but they aren’t the only way to showcase autumn. Try your hand at setting one of these fun, fall scenes.

Option 1 - Contrasting Colors

Make your fall color palette pop by mixing in some contrasting colors. Shades of orange, red, and yellow are set off by blue, green, and purple. Alternate the former colors with the latter on throw pillows. Display bright orange leaves or russet-colored roses in turquoise vases. If you’re really committed, paint the shelves and back of a bookcase a pretty autumn orange and display in it a collection of blue pottery or dinnerware.

White and neutral walls also help fall colors come to life. Consider painting the frame of a large picture or mirror a bold yellow and hanging it against a white wall. Shop thrift stores for red, orange, or yellow lamps or vases to set out during autumn. Definitely work with living décor: Arrange dahlias and mums with orange winterberry. Make arrangements of crabapples or pomegranates as an alternative to the traditional pile of pumpkins.

Option 2 - Crisp and Clean

If a neutral palette is more your style, you can still pay homage to the season. Create a gorgeous, natural table or mantel display with objects found in nature such as branches, acorns, prairie grasses, and pinecones. The various textures will add depth to a white or neutral background, while the colors blend soothingly. Orange isn’t the only color for gourds and pumpkins. They also come in white. Pile them on a white tablecloth for a stunning effect.

Neutral isn’t defined by white and beige, however. Set a calming scene with shades of green. Layer your textiles in varying green hues and add interest by mixing your patterns from big and bold to small and dainty. Make floral arrangements with green hypericums, spider mums, Kermit mums, and hydrangea. Add an element of surprise with a few dark purple dahlias.

Option 3 - Menswear Inspired

Take a cue from men’s fashion and incorporate woodsy plaids, pinstripes, and houndstooth patterns into your fall décor. Mix in manly textures such as leather, chrome, and wood. Add a touch of class with shiny gold and silver accents. Shop thrift stores for vintage luggage and fox-and-hound prints. Keep things cozy with a plush shag rug. Next to the hearth, place a basket stocked full of firewood for added texture and to use on those chilly fall nights!

Neutral isn’t defined by white and beige, however. Set a calming scene with shades of green. Layer your textiles in varying green hues and add interest by mixing your patterns from big and bold to small and dainty. Make floral arrangements with green hypericums, spider mums, Kermit mums, and hydrangea. Add an element of surprise with a few dark purple dahlias.