The first crisp fall days have already arrived. And while we’re not quite in sweater weather yet, most of us are still feeling the pull to create a cozy nest in our own homes. From lighting a pumpkin candle to curling up with a cable knit throw, there are easy ways to bring the comforting, glowy vibes of autumn into your décor.
Here’s what Northern Virginia designers do to get their own homes ready for fall, along with their favorite places to shop.
Take a Trip to Cox Farms
“When it comes to fall decorating, my No. 1 tip is to take a trip to Cox Farms in Centreville,” says Sallie Lord, founder of GreyHunt Interiors. “Their seasonal displays are a goldmine for inspiration, and they offer some of the most beautiful pumpkins you’ll find.”
She looks for their blush-toned pumpkins, which she mixes with more traditional autumn shades like orange and rust. “Bringing those natural hues indoors instantly sets the tone for the season in a way faux décor just can’t match,” says Lord.
Let Nature Guide your Vision
Speaking of nature, organic pieces such as branches, leaves, dried grasses, and seasonal fruit can subtly decorate a room without going over the top. “Some of the most beautiful fall décor comes directly from nature,” says Lord.
GreyHunt Interiors suggests a less-is-more approach in decorating with natural elements. “Instead of filling every surface with fall décor, create a few intentional moments,” says Lord, “Fall should feel connected, not decorated.”
Bring in Seasonal Items with a Vintage Touch
Textiles and decorative gourds might be the first items to come to mind when you think about switching out your fall decor. But autumn-inspired decorating can also include vintage items that evoke a seasonal feel. Think about going for a hunt country look with brass horse or dog figurines. Swap out a summer painting for an antique oil painting of an autumnal landscape. Or even bringing in a small vintage chair and topping it with a basket of pumpkins.
“Whatever you can do to bring in warmth, via accessories or small furniture items, can make a big impact. Pear Tree Cottage in Vienna always does a phenomenal job bringing in seasonal-friendly vintage items,” says Kristin Harrison, founder of Georgia & Hunt Design House.
Swap Out Pillows and Throws
An easy fall décor swap is to switch out storable items like pillow covers and throws. You can vacuum seal them in the off season, then bring out as soon as those first leaves begin to fall.
“Fall is the perfect time to add some color and texture to your home,” says Harrison. “Swap out pillows for an amber or merlot hue, pick up a throw blanket, and incorporate anything that screams warmth and coziness.”
You can find bold, textured pillows and blankets in fall hues at Patina in Old Town.
Add Rich Linens and Velvet Accents
If you keep a tablecloth, napkins, or placemats on your dining table or breakfast table, then swapping those out with the season can give your home an instant dose of autumnal coziness. “I recommend changing textures and materials at home to create a more fall-inspired, earthy feel,” says Lord. “Think deeper-toned linens or velvet accents.”
Swing by Crème de la Crème on a crisp fall afternoon in Old Town to pick up fall-inspired linens for the kitchen and dining room.
Create a Cozy Glow
There’s nothing that says cozy season more than the glow from a candle. That could mean lighting a perfectly pumpkin scented candle on a living room coffee table. Or filling your dining table with taper candles for a fall-inspired dinner party (or just a weeknight at home). A few well-placed taper candles can also bring an ambient coziness to rooms besides the dining room. Try them on a side table or console. “Amber-colored candles add warmth and glow to a space,” says Lord.
Looking for the best spot for fall candles? Red Barn Mercantile in Old Town has a stunning selection of both scented candles in autumn fragrances and taper candles of all colors.
Decorate True to Your Lifestyle
Lastly, GreyHunt Interiors encourages you to decorate according to how you live day-to-day so it can be sustained through the fall season. Focus on where people will gather.
“Think about the spaces where people naturally come together, the kitchen island, dining table, family room or front entry and give those areas a little extra attention,” says Lord.
