Are you sad to see summer ending, but secretly glad that you're no longer constantly sweltering at home? Plus, even though I love the bright sunshine and long days, there's something so magical seeing the green leaves slowly change to beautiful and vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange.
And hey, I love any excuse to refresh my décor for the season!
1. Change your colors
Credit: Tereza Hošková
There's nothing that screams autumn more than colors like rich yellows, burnt orange, chocolate brown, and deep red. Switching out your cushion covers for autumn colors is probably the easiest and most inexpensive way to change the room immediately for the season. Having a matching pupper with a beautiful caramel coat is a definite bonus!
If you prefer a different color scheme, try switching up the texture of your cushions instead. Faux fur, knitted, and velvet for example, evokes the same sense of change in weather, but in so many different color options.
2. Switch your dishes
Credit: Eiliv-Sonas Aceron
I like to switch out my dishes as well for each season. Is it just me, or does serving meals on plates and bowls in a darker tone, especially a darker wood, turns everything into comfort food? I also like to add to my bowl collection in the fall since I prefer not to eat cold salads when it's pouring rain outside. Bring on the hot soup and stew!
You can also just try changing up your cloth napkins and tablecloth instead. Imagine how inviting a burgundy tablecloth will look when you have guests over. A perfect match to a glass of red wine!
3. Bring out your mugs
Credit: Alisa Anton
It always seems a bit sad when I have to pack away my pitchers, but I immediately perk up when I bring out all my pretty mugs from the back of my cabinet. I have my favorite – a really old one from my college days that got me through a lot of late night cramming – but I love having a variety of mugs for my guests to pick from when they come over. I'm always surprised by how some of them really take their time picking one out. Umm, you're not taking that home with you!
I love hot apple cider in a sturdy mug. Settle down with a good book, cat on my lap, and I'm all set!
4. Set out some knick knacks
Credit: Cassandra Ortiz
A fun and simple way to freshen up your décor for the season is to add a few knick knacks that represent the season. A few decorative gourds on the shelves or even something as simple as a small basketful of pine cones on the coffee table can make a big impact. Gather a bunch when you take your dog for a walk or have the kids help out and see who can find the biggest one! Just make sure you remember to clean the pine cones first. You don't want any bugs crawling out in the middle of a conversation and freaking out your family (sorry Aunt Sophie!).
Having some scented candles will also be lovely. Imagine the aroma of apple pie or cinnamon wafting through the air. But just make sure you have them in a safe place where your kids (either 2 or 4-legged ones) can't get at them.
5. Unpack your blankets and throws
Credit: Abigail Hodde
I'm pretty sure I was a reptile in one of my prior lives. Or some other cold-blooded animal. Because that's the only reason I can think of why I love blankets and throws so much! Not only are they practical, they're such an easy way to add color or an eye-catching design to a room. Get them in colors that suit the autumn season like dark brown, or deep reds or oranges. My favorite is actually mustard yellow. If you're able to find it, a blanket with pretty fall leaves or other foliage would be lovely as well.
So, goodbye summer, but hello to autumn! See you next year!
