3 Simple but Sophisticated Seasonal Styling Tips
For me, Autumn is epitomised by nature. It’s the time of year when we see our gardens start to think about hibernating for the winter, when leaves start to turn shades of red, orange and yellow and when early in the morning (if you’re lucky) you might spot a deer or a hedgehog on their morning commute. If you could describe Autumn in a smell, it would be probably be cinnamon or treacle (hello Bonfire night), it’s a time when the nights start to draw in, and we focus on making our homes as cosy as possible by lighting candles and fires in preparation for the long winter ahead.
Autumn is also spooky season, and I love Halloween as much as the next person, but plastic spiders, cobwebs (fake or real) and witches in the home are a big no no as far as I am concerned. If you’re looking to incorporate subtle autumnal elements into your home but not keen on tacky Halloween style decorations, then read on! In this blog I’ll delve into 3 seasonal styling tips that will give your home that cosy Autumnal feel (without the environmental impact of sending dozens of plastic spiders to landfill!)
Autumnal Cushions
I mean, let’s not act surprised that this is my number one seasonal styling tip! As a cushion ambassador it’s my life’s vocation to raise awareness of the many benefits of the humble cushion, not least it’s ability to transform a space from drab and personality-less to a cosy and comfortable space that moves with the seasons.
The beauty of using cushions as seasonal décor is that they can be used year after year and put into storage in between (you can even remove the covers and reuse the inserts which makes storage even simpler). Not only do cushions soften a room by dampening the sound, they also add texture and interest to almost any room. Often people are afraid of making a bold statement with their furniture or decoration (after all if you plaster your walls with loud wallpaper you are pretty much stuck with it (pun intended)). Whereas with cushions you can inject some personality into your space without the commitment or expense. Our "Deer John" cushion does just that.
The deer is a majestic but allusive creature and for me, is a symbol of Autumn. Deer John celebrates this wonderful animal featuring stags, does and fawns in signature autumnal earthy tones and is the perfect accessory to incorporate into your seasonal décor. Style it with a chunky throw and any other neutral furnishings and watch your guests “fawn” (get it?) over the beauty of this cushion. Best either as a solo statement cushion or as a group of three on a snuggler or arm chair.
Autumnal Scents
There is a saying doing the rounds that goes something like “when the first episode of strictly cometh, we shall lighteth our candles”. Which roughly translates as: candle lighting season commences from the first episode of Strictly Come Dancing (which was aired on 18th Sept this year)! I really enjoy the ridiculousness of this concept, it just. Makes. SENSE. (Not to stereotype but I can literally feel a collective sigh of despair from boyfriends and husbands all over the country).
To be honest I won’t even look at a candle these days unless it’s scented (don’t @ me) but I just think a candle has so much more to it when it not only looks good but smells good too. My absolute all-time favourite ever “go to” candles are from Diptyque. They’re not the cheapest option, but also not the most expensive and their burn times are decent. What’s more, once they have burnt down you can use the empty vessels as makeup brush holders (or if you have mini ones, to hold matches) or even as desk tidies.
My fave Dyptique scents for Autumn are: Ambre, Benjoin, Feu de Bois and Narguile.
For something more affordable, try the White Company (their “Winter” candle is OMG divine I know we’re on Autumn rn but you won’t get in trouble from me if you incorporate this one into your Autumnal set up). There are also MANY independent candle brands out there, get yourself down to your local craft fayre where you’ll be able to smell these first-hand and meet the makers.
Autumnal Sprigs
My final tip for adding a little bit of Autumn into your home is to incorporate autumnal sprigs. These can literally be foraged from outside (just make sure you obtain the bill payer’s permission beforehand). I’m talking bare twigs, twigs with berries attached, dried hydrangea, pinecones – whatever you can find. Whether you fashion these into a wreath for your front door or literally whack them into a vase, they’re going to bring one very important element to your space: Texture. (I’m currently writing an entire blog on the importance of texture in the home – coming soon).
If you don’t have an abundance of foliage at your disposal (hello city dwellers!) then visit your local florist. My all-time FAVOURITE florist is Flowersmiths in Horwich. Not only is the shop itself absolutely delightful, they have a spectacular array of fresh and dried flowers!
Well what dya know! It’s the end of my first ever blog. I hope you enjoyed it! Stay tuned for more content like this and thanks for all your support so far on my cushion quest!
Lucy x
