A few years ago, I made some major decorating changes in the main living spaces of my home. I abandoned lush chocolate browns and warm burgundies for a fresh palette of crisp navy and white throughout the living room, dining room, and kitchen.
While I love the new preppy, cottage-y charm of the space, I still want to decorate for each season. And what I discovered is that navy blue works harmoniously with… everything!
In fall, that means adding a touch of burnt orange, deep crimson, and golden yellow. Whether it’s through a (growing!) collection of mercury glass pumpkins, some vintage Westmoreland glass, or simple toss pillow covers, a few strategic swaps and my home, which was bright and vaguely nautical all summer long, now takes on a distinctly cozy fall vibe.
No navy blue at your home? No problem!
No matter what colors you favor year-round, there are ways to make it still “feel like fall.” And these are colors you might not expect! But combining hues can make a room feel fresh, sophisticated, and oh-so-ready for autumn.
Here are some surprising colors that can seamlessly accommodate the introduction of more classic fall shades:
Blush Pink . Soft blush may not scream “autumn,” but that’s exactly why it works so well. When paired with rust or burnt orange, blush provides a counterbalance to warm earthy tones. If you already have blush pink as part of your design scheme (as a couch for example), add a few terracotta toss pillows in sumptuous velvet. So chic!
Shades of Blue. As I’ve happily discovered, navy actually works beautifully with fall colors. But other shades of blue also play nicely with autumn hues. Medium blue, Colonial blue, grayed blues, and even blues with a hint of green can all work. Blue is opposite orange on the color wheel, so combining these shades feels bold.
Sage Green. Sage is “the perfect neutral.” As it is a soft color, sage is muted enough to complement autumn’s richness. This soft, earthy hue pairs beautifully with a subdued pumpkin orange or deep burgundy. The result feels natural and soothing… almost like bringing the outdoors inside.
Shades of Gray. Gray may be “over,” but many of us still have plenty in our homes, whether it’s soft furnishings, paint, or even floors. The good news is that gray provides a sophisticated backdrop that allows seasonal hues to shine. Gray creates much-needed balance against fiery oranges, vibrant golds, or deep reds, and keeps a space from feeling too overwhelming.
Lavender. If you love lavender (and I do!) you’re in luck. This soft purple shade can work absolute magic in fall when paired with darker, moodier tones (think burgundy or copper accents). It’s unexpected, yet stunning. Because lavender is so instantly associated with spring, combining it with more traditional fall colors creates a fresh, whimsical look.
These pairings not only refresh your home for autumn but also allow your unique style to shine through. Happy fall y’all!
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Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest for posh weddings and events. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait! Susan Said…WHAT?! was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.