Key Takeaways
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Start by clearing away summer-specific decor to create a blank canvas.
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Swap out soft furnishings like pillows, throws and rugs for warmer tones and heavier textures.
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Layer in seasonal accents such as faux florals, pumpkins and natural elements.
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Style surfaces using the rule of three for balance and visual interest.
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Lighting and porch decor are finishing touches that make the biggest seasonal impact.
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Small, thoughtful updates can transform your space without a full decor overhaul.
There’s something special about the shift from summer’s bright, airy vibe to the cozy warmth of fall. As the days grow shorter and the evenings cool, our homes naturally become the center of family dinners, game nights and slow mornings with coffee. That’s why fall decor is such a favorite—it sets the mood for everything the season represents. But you don’t have to overhaul your entire home to make it feel autumn-ready. A few thoughtful swaps and layering techniques can transform your space from summer fresh to fall cozy in no time. Here’s how to transition your home from summer to fall decor in seven simple steps.
Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate
Before you bring in new decor, take stock of what’s already in place. Summer tends to be full of breezy textures like linen, woven baskets, and citrusy colors. Begin by clearing away overtly summer elements—seashells, nautical accents, lemon or tropical prints—and storing them for next year. A simple refresh gives you a blank canvas to work with and makes your fall accents shine.
Step 2: Swap Out Soft Furnishings
Throw pillows, blankets and rugs are the easiest way to shift your color palette. Trade cool blues and whites for warmer, autumnal tones like rust, mustard, olive, or deep burgundy. Chunky knit throws, faux fur accents, and plaid or herringbone patterns instantly create a cozier vibe. Even one new pillow paired with a soft throw draped over the sofa can start setting the tone.
Step 3: Layer in Seasonal Textures
Texture is the secret to a rich, inviting fall look. Think of it as visual warmth. Replace lightweight summer fabrics with heavier, tactile options:
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Pillows: Choose velvet, boucle or textured cotton.
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Throws: Chunky knits and soft fleece invite lounging.
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Rugs: A jute base layered with a patterned rug adds dimension and warmth.
At Third & Main, our seasonal decor boxes are designed with these textural swaps in mind, so you’ll always have just the right cozy touches on hand.
Step 4: Bring Nature Indoors
Fall is all about celebrating the harvest season, and natural accents go a long way toward achieving that look. Instead of fresh flowers, consider realistic faux stems that reflect fall’s palette—think eucalyptus, wheat stalks or deep-toned hydrangeas. True Bloom Florals are crafted to last for years, giving you realistic stems you can reuse season after season. Pair them with a rustic vase or ceramic jug to anchor your arrangement. Pumpkins (both real and faux) are a timeless fall staple, and they look just as good clustered on a mantel as they do on the porch.
Step 5: Style Your Surfaces
Coffee tables, consoles and mantels are perfect spaces to experiment with seasonal decor. Use the rule of three to create simple but balanced vignettes:
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A lantern, a pumpkin and a faux floral stem on a tray for the coffee table.
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A stack of books topped with a candle and seasonal bead garland for a console.
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A row of small pumpkins broken up by candlesticks on the mantel.
By mixing heights, textures and shapes, you’ll achieve a styled look without overthinking it.
Step 6: Light the Season
Lighting is often overlooked in seasonal transitions, but it’s key to fall coziness. Swap bright summer candles for warm, spiced scents like cinnamon, vanilla or amber. Add lanterns, hurricane jars or fairy lights to create a soft glow in the evenings. A few well-placed candles on the dining table or kitchen island instantly set the mood for autumn.
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Front Porch
Curb appeal matters too! Switch out summer flowers for mums, add a fall wreath to your door and anchor the entryway with lanterns or pumpkins. Even a single basket of seasonal greenery can make your home feel warm and welcoming before guests step inside.
Make the Transition Seamless
Transitioning from summer to fall decor doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. Focus on small but impactful changes: swapping out soft goods, layering textures and introducing natural and seasonal accents. With just a few thoughtful updates, your home will feel ready to embrace the coziness of fall.
At Third & Main, our fall decor boxes are curated to make this transition effortless. Each box includes a mix of timeless pieces and on-trend accents that pair beautifully with what you already own. Whether it’s a set of lanterns, a seasonal faux floral stem or the perfect throw pillow, these items help you layer warmth and style into your home without the guesswork.