It’s fall, y’all! Do you decorate for the season? If you want to turn your yard into a pumpkin patch and your interior into a haunted mansion, go for it. (Send pics!) On the other hand, if you prefer something a little more subtle and sophisticated, we have ideas for you.

EMBRACE THE COLORS OF THE SEASON

Image: @heartofwendy on livingspaces

There are more options than pumpkin orange, maple leaf red and midnight black. Try softer shades and consider neutrals like brown, warm grey and taupe for a more sophisticated color palette. Brass and copper pieces shine (pun intended) when polished and placed where they can catch the light…maybe from a pumpkin spice candle?

BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

Image:  Artur Rutkowski on Unsplash

You don’t have to fill every corner or surface with leaves and gourds. A few artfully pieces can add a touch of autumn style without making you feel like you’re walking through a cornfield on your way to the kitchen. To avoid more messy situations, consider investing in preserved botanicals that won’t fade or droop and check out these tips for keeping pumpkins fresh.

DRESS YOUR HOME IN ITS FALL WARDROBE

Image:  Max Rahubovskiy

“If your home is giving off breezy beach vibes, switching your lightweight textiles to richer, heavier ones is an instant shift to coziness,” says Lesley Myrick of Lesley Myrick Interior Design (Forbes.com). Maybe velvet drapes are just what your room needs. No need to stop at the windows: look for other places to add texture to your room. Seasonal pillows, knitted or faux fur throws and/or a sheepskin rug all add soft comfort. Also consider adding a touch of plaid, heralded by Southern Living as “the up and coming pattern of the season.”

COZY UP WITH LIGHTING  

Image: VirginiaSweetPea.com

Overhead lighting is great, but it can be harsh. For a warmer, cozier vibe, layer your light with lamps, lanterns and candles. Southern Living predicts that taper candles will be back on mantels across the south this season, so there’s one good place to start. Add a cute lantern on the hearth, accessorize it with a plaid bow and a couple of mini pumpkins, dim the overhead lights and boom! Instant ambiance.

REFRESH AND RESTYLE

Image: Wilshire Collection

It’s not always about adding something new. Editing your accessories can bring a fresh new look to your space. (Don’t worry, they’re not gone for good. You can bring them back out when the season changes.) Is something languishing in the back of a pantry or closet that would be perfect in your fall design? What if you moved this here and that there? Little changes can make a big difference. See Fall bookshelf styling ideas here.

Whether you decide to try one or more of these ideas, go full-on Halloween, or just celebrate the season with a pumpkin spice something, we hope your fall is filled with good times and great memories.