With every new season comes the perfect opportunity to refresh your home’s decor — and no time of year seems to inspire that transformation quite like fall. As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, many of us feel the urge to cozy up our spaces with rich colors, layered textures, and those unmistakable autumn touches.
But while fall decorating is all about comfort and charm, not every trend stands the test of time. In fact, designers are starting to notice that some once-popular fall staples have begun to feel a little dated or overdone. Whether it’s the overuse of certain colors, too much themed decor, or design choices that lean more kitsch than cozy, a seasonal refresh might mean letting go of a few familiar favorites.
So before you pull out your bins of autumn decor, take a cue from the experts. Here are 15 fall decorating trends that designers say are ready to be retired.
Overdone Pumpkin Displays
While pumpkins are a staple of fall decor, it’s easy to go overboard. When your porch resembles a pumpkin patch more than a welcoming entrance, it might be time to scale back. Instead of filling every corner with pumpkins, try using them as accents to complement your overall aesthetic. You could opt for a minimalist approach, incorporating just one or two pumpkins into your design.
Excessive Use of Faux Fall Leaves
There’s no denying the beauty of fall leaves, but too many faux leaves can make your home feel cluttered rather than cozy. Instead of scattering them everywhere, consider using them sparingly or not at all. Natural elements like real branches or pinecones can bring a touch of fall to your home without feeling overdone. For more ideas on how to incorporate natural elements into your decor, check out this article.
Overly Bright, Unnatural Autumn Colors
While vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds are synonymous with fall, they can be overwhelming when used in excess. Instead of saturating your home with these colors, consider using them as accents in a neutral color palette. This can create a calming, sophisticated aesthetic that still feels seasonal.
Outdated Cornucopia Centerpieces
While a cornucopia centerpiece might feel like a fall tradition, it can also feel dated. If you’re attached to this symbol of abundance, consider updating it with a modern twist. Instead of a traditional cornucopia, try a minimalist centerpiece with a few gourds, some fall foliage, and a candle or two.
Overuse of Plaid Patterns
Plaid can be a cozy and comforting pattern for fall, but it can also be overused. If every blanket, pillow, and tablecloth in your home is plaid, it might be time to mix things up. Incorporate solids, stripes, or other textures to balance out the plaid and keep your decor from feeling monotonous.
Generic Store-Bought Fall Banners
While store-bought banners can be a quick way to add a touch of fall to your home, they can also feel impersonal and generic. If you enjoy the festive feel of a banner, consider making your own. A DIY banner can be a fun project and a way to personalize your decor. This guide can provide some inspiration.
Overloading on Hay Bales
Hay bales can add a rustic touch to your fall decor, but too many can make your home feel like a barn. Instead of using hay bales everywhere, consider using them sparingly or substituting them with other rustic elements like reclaimed wood or wicker.
Overused Fall Scented Candles
While fall scents like pumpkin spice and apple cider can be comforting, they can also be overpowering when used in excess. Instead of filling your home with these scents, consider using them sparingly or opting for more subtle, natural scents like pine or cedar.
Relying Too Heavily on Orange Tones
While orange is a classic fall color, relying too heavily on it can make your decor feel monotonous and overwhelming. Instead of using orange everywhere, consider using it as an accent color. Pairing orange with neutrals or cooler colors can create a balanced, pleasing aesthetic.
Excessive Use of Halloween Decor in Non-Halloween Settings
Halloween decorations can be fun, but they can also feel out of place when used outside of the holiday. Instead of incorporating Halloween decor into your everyday fall aesthetic, consider keeping it confined to the holiday itself. This can help your decor feel more cohesive and less cluttered.
Overabundance of Fall-themed Throw Pillows
While fall-themed throw pillows can add a cozy touch to your decor, too many can make your home feel cluttered. Instead of filling every chair and sofa with throw pillows, consider using them sparingly. A few well-placed pillows can make a statement without overwhelming the space.
Overdone Tablescapes with Mini Pumpkins
While a tablescape with mini pumpkins can feel festive, it can also feel overdone. Instead of cluttering your table with pumpkins, consider using them sparingly or substituting them with other fall elements like candles, foliage, or gourds. This article provides some alternative ideas.
Clashing Fall Color Schemes
While fall is known for its vibrant colors, using too many can create a clashing, chaotic aesthetic. Instead of using every fall color in your decor, consider sticking to a cohesive color palette. This can create a more harmonious, pleasing aesthetic.
Overly Rustic Fall Decorations
While rustic decor can add a cozy, warm touch to your home, it can also feel overdone when used in excess. Instead of filling your home with rustic elements, consider using them sparingly or mixing them with more modern elements for a balanced aesthetic.
Neglecting to Incorporate Natural Elements into Fall Decor
While many fall decorations are inspired by nature, it’s easy to neglect the real thing. Instead of relying solely on faux foliage and gourds, consider incorporating real natural elements into your decor. This can add a touch of authenticity and freshness to your home. For more ideas on how to incorporate natural elements into your decor, check out this book.
