Who Says You Can’t Decorate For Fall In August?
Okay, so here is the deal…typically I do try to wait until September to decorate for fall. However, I genuinely couldn’t wait one more second this year. So, I decorated on August 29th…at 8 AM. Sue me.
I usually decorate for summer in May. So, by the time September rolls around, I’m ready for a change of scenery. I’m particularly ready for a change in the weather after four months of scorching, Carolina days. Unfortunately, a trip to the attic won’t fix that problem though.
I think I love fall decor so much because it’s cozy, and I thrive on cozy vibes. I also love the color scheme: burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep red and nutmeg brown. It just screams “Here’s a cozy blanket and a warm gingersnap cookie.”
Seasonal decorating can be a little tricky though. If you aren’t careful, things can start to look cluttered quickly. At the same time, your sentimental, year-round decor still needs a home. I try to find a nice balance of seasonal and year-round items, while also alternating the year-round pieces I put away. For example, if I put something away to make room for summer decor, I’ll choose a different item to put away for fall. Pro tip: use the same storage container you just took your seasonal decor out of to store your year-round decor while not in use.
Speaking of tips, here are a few rules I decorate by:
Pair like items together.
Clusters of similar items make a design feel very intentional. For example, all the velvet pumpkins in this pic have a buddy. Additionally, in this and the below pic, you can see how placing multiple (and matching) mini pumpkins on a shelf, throughout a room, etc., makes the design feel cohesive.
Use smaller items, in bulk, to bring cohesion to your space, without needing to shift other items. Smaller decor can easily fit in front of year-round pieces. (See above, also)
Anyone else have a PILE of laundry shoved in a corner?
Hit the highlights.
Mantels are prime real estate for seasonal decor. You can easily switch out garlands, lights, etc.
Table scapes are another great option for creating that “wow” effect.
Place items based on room colors and overall aesthetic.
Because there is so much cream/beige in this space, I chose items with a similar color palate + just enough orange to create that fall vibe.
A little sign and some festive cocktail napkins bring just enough festivity to the bar cart, without interfering with its functionality.
I switched out a coffee sign for this “AUTUMN leaves & PUMPKINS please” sign. It fits both the color scheme and design aesthetic of this small gallery wall.
It’s in the details.
Dish towels are one of my favorite items to swap out seasonally. It will also make them last so much longer if you are only using them for a few weeks or months at a time.
Paper napkins are another great, CHEAP decor item. Yes, paper napkins can be decor + they are obviously functional too.
Hopefully these tips will help you as you begin decorating your own space for fall. Happy decorating, friends!
-D
