Autumn is officially here, and if you're still putting the finishing touches on your fall home decor, some interior designers say there are two rules to keep on your radar. First, don’t make such obvious design choices, and second, never veer too far away from your standard color palette or style preferences when selecting autumnal decor.
“When it comes to fall decorating, I’d love to see people move away from the overly literal seasonal clichés, like piles of pumpkins, hay, and an abundance of orange everything,” says Mia Johnson, the founder of Mia Johnson Home. “Those items can feel predictable and don’t always translate well in a more elevated interior.”
Designer Courtney Aleksa agrees. “You don't need to be so literal with your decor but instead want to create the feeling and mood of the fall season,” explains the founder of Aleksa Interiors. Rather than adding a pumpkin-shaped pillow, for example, try setting out a wool or mohair pillow or throw, she offers. “Opt for autumnal tones or warm neutrals that will enhance and elevate your existing decor rather than compete with it.”
In the same vein as not going too literal in your interpretation of autumn, you also shouldn’t view the fall season as a time to completely overlook your usual preferences.
“Seasonal decorations should feel like an extension of your personal style; no need to add boucle throw pillows or pops of orange if you don’t naturally gravitate toward them,” says Jen Kolb, the founder of Jen Kolb Interiors.
Melissa Fields, founder of Shades of Gray Design, shares this sentiment. “This season is so much more than orange and black,” she says. “It’s an opportunity to weave in colors that are unexpected but still give those cozy, fall vibes.”
Instead of going for typical fall-like hues or materials, try thinking outside the box a bit. For example, Kolb says, “You might consider a nubbier linen or a smooth velvet in camel or sage.”
Other great fall hues to weave into your space include burgundy, crimson, mustard, and scarlet, just to name a few. Believe it or not, even the foliage around you can serve as design inspiration!
You can even apply the above philosophy to choosing seasonal fragrances for the home, Kolb adds. Not a fan of pumpkin? No worries—she recommends burning a spicy or woodsy scent instead if that’s more your vibe.
In short, don't feel pressure to deviate too much from your general design style for the fall season. Consider selecting fall decor that can be showcased for several months on hand. Spending a bit more time up front picking out pieces that make your heart sing, rather than grabbing the nearest handful of orange decor, will be worth it in the long run!
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
