Key Takeaways
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The rule of three creates balance, rhythm and visual interest in home decor.
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Pumpkins, lanterns and florals are versatile fall staples that work beautifully together.
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Varying heights, textures and colors ensures a polished look.
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Apply the rule of three to mantels, coffee tables, entryways and dining tables.
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Faux pumpkins and florals keep arrangements fresh all season long.
There’s a reason professionally styled homes and magazine spreads always look so effortlessly pulled together. Designers rely on tricks that bring balance, interest and harmony to a space. One of the simplest—and definitely the most effective—is known as the rule of three. This guideline works especially well in seasonal decorating, where a few thoughtful pieces can transform your space without overwhelming it. When it comes to fall, nothing feels more seasonal than pumpkins, lanterns and florals. Using the rule of three, you can style these autumn staples like a pro. Here’s how to do it.
What Is the Rule of Three?
The rule of three is a design principle based on the idea that objects arranged in odd numbers (especially groups of three, as you’ve probably guessed) are more visually appealing. Threes create a sense of rhythm and balance, but they still leave room for variety. Too much symmetry can feel flat and boring, but odd groupings draw the eye and make your decor look and feel intentional.
The best part? It’s really easy! By grouping three related items together, like say, faux pumpkins, a lantern and a floral stem, you instantly achieve that styled look.
Why It Works So Well in Fall Decorating
Fall decor often involves layering cozy textures and natural elements, and the rule of three gives you a framework for combining them. Pumpkins, lanterns and florals are especially versatile. Pumpkins, whether fake or real, add seasonal charm, lanterns bring warmth and light to ground your arrangement, and faux stems from True Bloom Floral add softness and organic movement. Together, these elements can turn any surface—a console, mantel, entryway or coffee table—into a focal point.
How to Style Pumpkins, Lanterns and Florals
Vary the Heights
Height is what makes the grouping feel dynamic. Try placing a taller lantern on one side with a medium-height vase or jug with faux florals on the other, and anchoring it all with one or two pumpkins at the base. The height difference creates a triangle shape, which is naturally pleasing to the eye.
Mix Textures
Texture is the secret to keeping your vignette interesting. A few examples for contrasting textures:
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A smooth ceramic pumpkin with a woven basket-style lantern.
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Velvet or fabric pumpkins alongside a matte metal lantern.
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Faux florals with feathery grasses paired against a sleek glass hurricane.
Third & Main’s seasonal home decor boxes often include complementary textures, so you can easily layer them without second-guessing.
Play with Color
Fall’s palette is rich and varied, so lean into it. If your pumpkins are neutral (white, cream or tan), choose florals with warm tones, like burnt orange, deep burgundy or golden yellow. If your lanterns are dark metal, balance with lighter accents to keep things from feeling too heavy.
Why Faux Is the Way to Go
While we are fans of fresh gourds (at least outside), we love a good faux that you can use year after year. And we’re firmly on team faux flower. The True Bloom Floral collection, exclusively at Third & Main, includes stunning stems that last all season long—and for many seasons to come. That means your styled vignettes stay looking fresh without constant upkeep. Plus, faux pieces can be stored and reused, giving you more flexibility year after year.
The Designer Look, Made Easy
The rule of three takes the guesswork out of decorating. By focusing on just three elements, like pumpkins, lanterns and florals, you can style any surface in your home with confidence. Add variety with textures and colors, vary the heights and watch your space transform into a cozy, fall-ready haven.