Cozy Fall Style Without Orange Pumpkins

Oh no, she didn’t! Before you scroll by, hear me out, love. Yes, orange pumpkins are the first sign of fall that we see as a kid- they’re what we pick on the school pumpkin patch field trip and proudly take home to carve (unless you’re like my mom and hate messes… so you give your kid markers, tape and construction paper instead 😂). 

They are what we put on our porch to signal the start of the season (and sometimes forget about until well after the new year…)

They are a tradition not to be trifled with unless you want every southern girl to throw their pumpkin spice lattes at you. (Alas, another triggering post for another day…🤪)

But, just saying-  what if those bright sunshiny pumpkins clash with the colors you love to decorate with year round?

Or you just aren’t a big fan of orange??

Or you’re a little on the non-traditional side when it comes to seasonal decorating and you’d rather have subtle touches that nod to the season rather than the in your face orange everything and Happy Fall Y’all signs???

Don’t come at me just hear me out!

If you love your signs and pumpkins, you can keep them- and I mean it-  I still love you- no judgment! I’m merely offering some other creative ways to unlock seasonal vibes in your home. 

Curious, yet? Let’s go! 

Texture

When it turns chilly outside I’m all about adding warmth! Switching out pillow covers to cozy chenilles or something with a bumpy feel. Throwing some chunky knit blankets or vintage afghans on the end of the bed or over the arms of chairs and sofas. Pulling out woven baskets or thrifting for new ones to corral items on the coffee table, counter or nightstand.

Smell

My diffuser has become my favorite thing and I love bringing out the cinnamon oil and other spicy scents in the fall. And because I also love scented candles (but don’t always love the open flame or smoke) I’m about to try out one of those candle warmers from Amazon that look like a vintage gooseneck lamp! Sooo pretty!! And don’t forget about stovetop potpourri- just combine cinnamon sticks, cloves, rosemary sprigs, cranberries and sliced mandarin oranges (peels and all) in a pot of water and let simmer for an awesome fall scent.

Greenery

I tend to have a gray thumb because the only plants still alive here are two Christmas cactuses- I guess they felt sorry for me. So faux greenery has been a game changer. Whether you prefer real or faux, bringing the natural elements in adds life, texture and depth to your space. I love pampas grasses or leaves in faded greens, golds and browns for the fall. Grab your big pitchers and gather some store bought beauties or cut branches from the yard as another alternative (if you’re not afraid of the possibility of bugs 🥴)

Color

For me, the perfect fall colors are warm browns, creams, muted brass and gold, darker moody blues and mauves. Keeping to a cohesive color palette helps achieve the fall feel I’m going for especially since the base colors in my home tend to lean toward the jewel tone or dusty side of the color spectrum. (Permission granted to adjust as needed to match your normal color palette) When seasons change I like to look for items I already have that speak to my palette and bring them to the forefront. And when I’m out shopping keeping those colors at top of mind helps me spot other things like thrifted books, pillows or art to fill in any gaps.

Patina & Pattern

When I think of fall finishes, it’s muted and matte over shiny for this season. (Actually that’s my preference for most seasons.. but again, this is your house!) So if you want to bring in fall feels in accessories, fabrics and art, think well worn paint, small patterns, wood and sepia tones for your frames, books, pillows or vases.

Lighting

Since discovering battery operated candles a few years ago I’ve loved incorporating them in my fall decorating. When the sun goes down earlier, it’s nice to have a cozy glow around the room – and one that automatically cuts on! And I’m always keeping an eye out for small lamps to add in – they’re great for giving ambiance to kitchen counters and bookshelves. I’ve also been known to add fairy lights or string lights to vignettes and my mantle… the more cozy points of light, the better!

So there you have it! The bonus here is incorporating some of these items in your decorating can up the cozy factor in any season- like lighting, greenery, texture and smell. Patina, pattern and color can vary depending on the time of year. Let me know what you think and if you give these ideas a try!