Cozy Up to Seasonal Decorating Ideas

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Sometimes in Texas, it’s difficult to decipher one season from another. As a former Chicagoan, I’m still not used to 90-degree temps in October. Yet with Halloween behind us, and Thanksgiving just weeks away, it’s prime time to think about cozying up to some seasonal decorating ideas.

Change is always good, says Dallas interior designer Alex Montana. Even little things can make a big difference. Among her favorite updates: filling vases with fall and wintery florals, swapping out coffee table books, rearranging bookshelves, and displaying family photographs.

From subtle swaps (think throw pillows, candles, tablescapes) to those requiring a bit more commitment (paint colors, lighting fixtures), we’ve rounded up some creative ways to spruce up your space.

Decorative Doormats

Fall starts at the door. Set the vibe even before guests enter the house.

Try a doormat in on-trend Buffalo plaid.

Memorable Tablescapes

Create an Instagram-worthy seasonal table with an almost endless array of options: statement-making centerpieces; decorative napkins and tablecloths; distinctive serving pieces, dishes, and glassware. From farmhouse chic to plays on pattern, a beautiful tablescape will make parties of any size more memorable.

To avoid pattern overkill, keep everything in the same color family.
Keep your table simple and rustic with strategic pops of color.

Snug-Worthy Throws and Blankets

Cozy textures add warmth to any room—literally. Among our favorites: faux fur, fleece, chenille, handcrafted fringe, and chunky knits. (It’s going to get chilly. We promise.)

These Crate & Barrel wool-blend throws are hand-loomed by skilled artisans.

Sensual Candles

Choose from a plethora of enticing options. Autumn-inspired aromas provide an instant sensory experience: Alluringly warm (Malin+Goetz Dark Rum) to luxuriously rich (Byredo Apocalyptic Candle). Or choose one that lives up to its name: D.S. & Durga Portable Fireplace Candle, filled with notes of pine, cedar, ash oak, and birchwood.

Malin + Goetz Dark Rum Candle
Byrdo’s Apocalyptic Scented Candle
D.S. & Durga’s Portable Fireplace Candle

Fresh Florals

The season’s best arrangements combine colors of the season (reds, purples, oranges, golds) in visually-arresting combinations. These statement-making blooms add instant elan to any décor.

A fountain of red winterberry, burning bush, and purple beautyberry create a rich and unexpected bunch. (Martha Stewart)
An irresistible mix of chrysanthemums, tulips, roses, and berries. (Martha Stewart)

Luxe Lighting

Change the dynamics of a room with a mood-setting lighting fixture.

Restoration Home’s modern chandelier.
Ikea’s bamboo pendant lamp.

New-Season Paint Colors

Banish boring walls. A fresh coat of paint in an unexpected rich hue will bring interiors to life. According to home advice expert Bob Vila, these are some of the season’s chicest shades: Cappuccino Froth (Benjamin Moore), Warm Grey Flannel (Glidden), California Claret (Glidden), Alchemy (Sherwin Williams), and Whole Wheat (Sherwin Williams).

Warm Grey Flannel is a seasonal go-to.
California Claret pairs well with warm neutrals.

Plush Pillows

Sofas and armchairs beg for decorative throw pillows. Whether you prefer monochrome or mixing and matching, there’s something for every taste and budget. We’re especially partial to these eco-minded beauties from Goodee, a range of heirloom-quality pillows made entirely in Africa in collaboration with Ethical Fashion Initiative, the United Nations’ fair trade division.

Goodee pillows are sustainably stylish.

Remarkable Rugs

Mid-century to traditional, kitschy to elegant, rugs are a surefire way to change the look and feel of a room.

Rugs define a space while adding personality and style.

Elaine Raffel left the corporate world to become a freelance creative focused on real estate and design in Dallas.

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