It's time for Fall at Home: Hunker down, bundle up, and make the season as cozy as possible with our foolproof guide to autumn.
Hygge, nesting — whatever you call it, fall is about one thing when it comes to decor: cozying up. And while we readily admit that soon, cold temperatures will have us longing for the 24/7 embrace of our warmest down bedspreads, there's undoubtedly a more sophisticated way to achieve that level of at-home comfort.
Though any seasoned homebody probably has their favored fall textures in mind by now, there are a few that we're seeing pop up everywhere in trend reports that aren't quite the average, expected fare. (Fear not. The classics, like plush faux-furs and sleek velvets, are all here — albeit with a little 2020 update.) We've rounded up five must-have textures, plus a few of our favorite pieces, to incorporate into your seasonal decorating. And the best part is, they all play well together — so get mixing and matching for a custom cozy vibe all your own.
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1. Linen
Don't pack away those airy summer linen pieces just yet. While this woven fabric is often associated with warmer temperatures, its nubby, textural character makes it perfect for creating some contrast with fall's more supple materials. If this season is your first experience with this designer-favorite fabric, invest in heavier-weight linens with an artisan feel to get the most out of your accessories for years to come — linen quality and weight varies widely, from semi-sheer weaves to crisp varieties with a more substantial hand, and while either will infuse your fall decorating scheme with personality and tactile appeal, a high-quality Belgian or French linen is well worth the investment.
Heavyweight linen woven in Portugal gives this throw its beautiful character. We like that it's reversible for a bit of color versatility, too.
A little artsy; a lot autumnal.
Pro tip: Intermingle a few of these iconic HAY cushions in linen with the brand's velvet versions to create a spot-on fall mix.
We love how the natural weave of these linen curtain panels casts a glow across the room.
2. Velvet
No surprises here — velvet is a perennial favorite that's pretty much synonymous with autumn style. While cooler temps lead us to flock to luxe jewel-toned velvets (and more affordable velour alternatives) nearly every year, for 2020, there's a new way to make this material feel fresh. Forego classic sapphires and purples for something a bit more unexpected, like chartreuse — named Etsy's color of the year — and be sure to pepper in unique patterned velvets, too, for a change of pace. When paired with the aforementioned earthy linen and flax accents, velvet takes on a more interesting quality by contrast.
Extra seating for impromptu guests, or an extra-luxurious perch for your pooch.
OK, yes, it's a major splurge ... but you can't blame us for dreaming of this iconic midcentury lounge chair, upholstered in stunning saffron velvet from one of Italy's most legendary textile houses.
A seasonally-appropriate investment that will brighten your front hall for years onward.
Is there anything more absurdly luxe than silk velvet placemats? (We'll wait.)
It's not for everybody, but we can all agree that this tiger-printed, tasseled silk velvet throw pillow is pretty cool, right?
3. Faux Fur & Leather
Who doesn't have an IKEA sheepskin or two that they're excited to pull out as the seasons change? Plush materials are one of the most unequivocally cozy parts of autumn, and with the year we've had so far, a little comfort is long overdue. Whether you opt for the soft, touchable texture of a wooly sheepskin (real or faux), or you prefer the well-worn look of saddle leather or even supple suede, animal-inspired materials are a great way to add warmth to your space and make it feel all the more inviting for the cold months ahead.
This warm taupe color is a unique (and versatile) alternative to pure white versions.
Go with the faux. "Teddy coats" — inspired, as you might expect, by the bear of the same name—were a major trend in fashion last year, and now this same irresistible texture has made its way to the home, as well. These cuddly poufs will unleash your inner child — in a grown-up way, of course.
Two fall essentials in one — soft leather, and an on-trend olive hue make these ottomans the ultimate accent piece.
One word: dreamy.
Even the smallest of touches can make a huge difference on your tablescape.
4. Knits
Your house just might be jealous of your closet's fall makeover — but it doesn't have to be. Chunky sweater-knits have made their way into the home for fall in a big way (no pun intended — but yes, oversize roving-knit throws are a huge trend). Embracing this texture can be as easy as adding a few throw pillows and cozy blankets, but don't be afraid to think outside the box, too. A sweatery area rug or even cable-knit-inspired ceramics are unique ways to incorporate this look.
Extra-thick with fringe? Yes please. We'll be living wrapped up in this blanket for the foreseeable future.
Oh-so-cozy underfoot, for those chilly autumn mornings.
It doesn't get more cozy than this.
This cable-knit inspired mug will make you do a double-take.
5. Woven Fibers
We admit it — we're not quite over the rattan craze. Though it's been with us for a minute at this point, natural woven fiber elements are still among our most-loved ways to add texture through furniture, accessories, lighting ... you name it. But while we'll be retiring our beachy wicker pieces soon, fall opens up an opportunity for rattan's chic, sophisticated cousin — cane. Intricate geometric cane motifs feel stately for fall, especially when paired with glossy black accents (like the pieces below).
A fall-ready update to the woven materials trend we've been loving.
This classic-meets-modern tray seems like the ideal place to perch a candle and a cup of coffee to fall-ify your coffee table.
This statement-making set includes bookends, for corralling all your fall reads.
Sure, it's not real cane — it's leather, which makes this in-demand trendy texture much easier to cozy up on the couch with.