Non-Tacky Fall Home Decor & Ideas
Fall is almost here and while we're sad to see Summer go, it is the kick-off to so many fun things ahead. The tricky part of this time of year is weeding through the tacky Fall decorations that seem to dominate September. You know the stuff - bright orange leaves, Raggedy Ann lookin’ Scarecrows, “Gather” word-art. Don’t get us wrong, we do appreciate the nostalgic type of tacky (check out our kitschy Maine Christmas last year), but we’ll leave that for Halloween time. Bringing out the fall decor feels special and we are extra excited to be spending this fall season in Maine.
We’ve scoured the internet for easily accessible, seasonal decorations that give that cozy autumnal vibe, just a bit more elevated. So here’s what we’ve found, tested, and are using in our home this year!
Fall Candles & Accessories
Last year we decided to take on the task of ordering a ton of different pumpkin candles, and giving them the full test! You can check out which were our favorites, here. While we don’t feel like we’re ready for real pumpkins just yet, adding candles is a great way to gradually layer in the cozy touches and smells.
As soon as it starts to get dark, it's lamp o'clock and candle time in the St. Russell household. These pumpkin-based candles and candlestick holders look really beautiful in our living room. We bought the Pumpkin Base Handmade Candle in Olive Beige, but there were a few really beautiful color options. If you've been following us for a while, you likely know about our love affair with taper candles, and these Amber Candle Stick Holders and both reversible and stackable!
Cozy Details & Textiles
There are few things that do a better job at ushering in the cozy feeling of fall better than throw pillows & blankets (except maybe a pumpkin spice latte). For us, we look for seasonal or novelty pillows covers only - we don’t want to have to store extra bulky inserts. This makes for an easy - and a more affordable - way to change things out for your favorite season.
The moody color scheme of our new pillows gives such an inviting look to our couch! We consider fall decorating to be a lot about texture and this burgundy pillow is so fluffy! When we think of the season and traditional fall colors, we tend to lean away from the vibrant colors, and more towards the saturated ones. This floral motif pillow is really stunning and would actually look great in any season. Add some chenille throw blankets and you're ready for an afternoon nap!
Coffee table Knick-Knacks
A while back we shared a little bit about how we like to style with books - especially on our coffee table. We rounded up a few items that don’t go overboard, but add an autumnal touch to our living room.
These mushroom figurines actually come in a variety of super cute color combinations and different styles. Similarly, the vase has a really organic feel to it and is the perfect size for a coffee table or even a dining table. Going outside to walk the yard and clip some of the end of summer/early fall blooms to fill this vase, has been part of our "end of the day routine" this week. Using whatever we have in the yard is always one of our favorite ways to decorate - sometimes it's the simple ideas that have the biggest impact.
Our New Seasonal Wreath
You may remember that we have an old, Christmas-time wreath from Rejuvenation that we are absolutely obsessed with. It's real, preserved greenery and taking it out of storage each year is a heavenly treat. However, the rest of the year, our front door looks a little more bare. Fall wreaths are tough and we find that faux leaves and flowers can look really - well, fake. However, this year we finally found the perfect seasonal wreath. It has a much more realistic look and is made of natural materials , dried wheat and straw. It just might be our favorite item from this seasonal decorating haul!
Just a word of caution - put it somewhere it won’t be touched, this natural wreath sheds when handled!
Final Thoughts
When the crisp air rolls in, we'll be ready! Next on the to do list - start cutting and drying some of our grasses for one of our favorite, annual DIY projects - Witches Brooms! Going into the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in comparing your home decor and design to what you see on social media. Don’t let that be the thief of your joy during the magical ‘ber months. Tacky is in the eye of the beholder and if you really like it - do you - it’s not that serious!
