For me, part of the fun in decorating is changing up the accessories once in a while for a fresh new look. As the weather gets colder, fall is the perfect time to switch out decorative objects to give rooms a cozier feel. In my last post, I targeted the front porch as the first place to start with seasonal style. Now I turn my attention inside with some simple fall updates.
Color and texture are the two things I think most about when making a seasonal style update. The colors of fall and winter are richer, deeper and more muted than their spring and summer counterparts. This year I’m considering working some burnt orange into my decor, but you will want to select colors that work with the furniture, walls, and other non-changing items in your home. Aubergine, harvest gold, cranberry, chocolate, charcoal and ivory are all great options. The textures of fall/winter are heavier, earthier, more substantial; think wool, thick knits, and strongly patterned wood grains.
A pretty fall palette, courtesy of simplechemistry.com
Some of the easiest things to change are textile items like pillow covers, blankets, and kitchen/table linens. When it comes to throw pillows I feel like I can almost never have enough. (The household is divided on this sentiment: husband thinks the pillows are taking over; 4-year old thinks they make awesome forts.) Anyway, I like to use standard-size pillow inserts and just change the covers out seasonally, which helps keep the cost down. Add a warm woolly blanket folded over the sofa or bed and an autumnally hued tablecloth and the transformation is practically complete.
Here are some Carolina-sourced finds from artisans across the region; all photos courtesy of Etsy.com. Click on each photo for more information:
 So cozy: Hand-knit Pillow Cover by catchallcorner of Boone, NC. |
 Ready for the apple harvest: Apple and Pear Tree Pillow Cover by catchallcorner of Boone, NC. |
Pretty, textured Medallion Pillow Cover by AnnKHutsonDesigns of Charleston, SC.
A 70’s Vera napkin was used as an applique on this”Vintage Vera Gone Wild” tablecloth by TablesGoneWild of Raleigh, NC.
 Denim blue is an unexpected yet totally appropriate fall color. Denim & Chocolate Bistro Napkin Set by FloradoraInc of Charlotte, NC. |
 Mmmm, how about some hot chocolate with this Rustic View Placemat and Napkin Set by FloradoraInc of Charlotte, NC. |
This photo makes me want a porch swing! Crocheted Afghan in Fall Colors by LexingtonCrochetShop of Lexington, NC.
Around this time of year, I also like to think about switching out some of my collections. Personally, I’ve acquired a few more dishes and tchotches than can be decently displayed all at once. Rotating the collections helps keep them fresh to the eye, and more greatly appreciated. In the off-season, items get packed away safely.
 In the spring & summer, my vintage Fiestaware and some painted butterflies come out to play. |
 I have holiday dinners in mind when I get out these blue & white dishes in the fall. |
In addition to culling through the things you already own, you might consider adding a few seasonal accents: a table centerpiece, mantle decorations, and so forth. There are so many options this time of year: gourds, pumpkins, pinecones, dried grasses, Indian corn – and I’m sure you have creative ideas of your own! Here are a few photos for inspiration:
Leaf & pumpkin centerpiece, courtesy of blissfullydomestic.com.
Soft greens make a pleasing and different fall palette. Photo courtesy of mplusmequalsl.blogspot.com.
Some simple pinecones and pears in a pretty bowl will do the trick. Courtesy of yournestdesign.com.
Black and white make a sophisticated display. Courtesy of madiganmade.com.
I hope everyone had a restful long weekend. We enjoyed our time in the mountains, and I’ll be sharing some fantastic sources from my travels soon. In my next post, Fall Style at Home, Part 3 I’ll be exploring the magical power of candles and firelight.