The Real Chic Life

As many of you know if you follow me on Instagram, I moved into what we plan to be our Forever Home last month, which of course means we’ve been busy getting all of our things in order. Just when I thought I had most of our furniture and art in the right places, small thoughts of fall decorating started to creep in. 

Fall is a favorite of mine for both fashion and home decor, but we’re not talking pumpkins and plaid just yet. However, we are entering the season of softness. As the light starts to mellow and the energy turns inward, now is the perfect time to begin gently layering your home for fall. These small, intentional updates make your space feel cozy and elevated—without a single scarecrow in sight.

1. Start with Texture, Not Color

Before switching hues, introduce richer textures:

• Add a chunky knit or boucle throw to your sofa or reading chair
  
• Swap breezy summer pillows for ones with velvet, linen, or tweed finishes
  
• Layer a small area rug over natural jute or sisal for depth
  

Chic Tip: Keep your color palette light but layer with contrast—like cream on camel, or soft gray with dusty blush.

2. Transition Your Florals

Move from bright summer blooms to dried stems and moodier arrangements:

• Try eucalyptus, bunny tails, or dried hydrangeas in warm neutrals
  
• Swap glass vases for ceramic or matte black containers
  
• For fresh options, choose deep greenery or late-summer dahlias
  

3. Swap a Candle or Two

Trade your citrus and sea salt scents for early fall blends:

• Think: fig, amber, cedar, vanilla, cashmere
  
• Choose candles in deeper hues or minimalist matte vessels
  
• Place them in entryways, bedside tables, and in bathrooms for a soft seasonal scent story
  

4. Curate a Moodier Corner

Pick one space—like your nightstand, bookshelf, or sideboard—and style it intentionally:

• Add a stack of warm-toned books or a vintage find
  
• Use a marble tray or wooden bowl for jewelry or keys
  
• Include a small, sculptural object or seasonal accent
  

5. Rethink Lighting

Shift the mood with warm, layered lighting:

• Use low, golden light in the evenings—think soft lamps or sconces
  
• Add dimmers or swap bulbs to a softer color temperature
  
• Bring out lanterns or votives for cozy corners or patio evenings
  

Fall decorating doesn’t need to be loud to be lovely. Sometimes the smallest shifts—texture, light, scent, and mood—are all it takes to make your space feel like it’s leaning gently into the season ahead.

We’d love to hear about your small shifts towards embracing fall decor. Let us know in the comments. 

Until Next Post, 

Xo Tonya Parker