I’ll admit it—I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to sunny days and warm evenings. But as August rolls in, there’s no denying that fall is just around the corner. The good news? You don’t have to choose between seasons. With a few smart tweaks, your home can celebrate the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re clinging to the last bits of sunshine or eagerly anticipating crisp autumn air, transitional decorating is the perfect solution. Think hydrangeas in woven baskets, neutral tones that work year-round, and easy swaps like trading seashells for pine cones. It’s all about blending warmth with coziness.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out these budget-friendly ideas to refresh your space. Let’s embrace this seasonal shift together—one simple update at a time.
1. Embrace Seasonal Blooms for a Fresh Look
Nothing breathes life into a home quite like fresh blooms during this time of year. Whether you’re celebrating National Sunflower Day (the first Saturday in August) or snipping hydrangeas from your backyard like I do, flowers add instant warmth. The best part? You don’t need a florist’s budget to make an impact.
Sunflowers: The Ultimate Seasonal Accent
Sunflowers scream joy—and at $5–8 per bunch at most grocery stores, they’re a steal. I love pairing them with amber glass vases (Willow Bloom Home on Etsy has gorgeous options) or tucking faux stems into wreaths for long-lasting color. Pro tip: Split one bouquet between multiple rooms to stretch your budget.
Dried Hydrangeas and Zinnias for Texture
New Jersey’s hydrangeas peak in August–September, making them perfect for air-drying. Hang them upside down in a cool, dark place for diy texture that lasts all year. Late-blooming zinnias and dahlias from farmers’ markets add pops of magenta and gold—try displaying them in dough bowls for a rustic touch.
Grocery Store Bouquets on a Budget
Don’t underestimate those $10 mixed bouquets! Here’s how I maximize them:
- Reuse mason jars or thrifted pitchers as vases
- Add a Crisp Campfire Apple candle (my go-to from Antique Candle Co.) to enhance the cozy vibe
- Snip daylilies from your garden to mix in—they’re perfect for coffee bar centerpieces
With a little creativity, even supermarket finds can feel like a curated masterpiece.
2. Swap Summer Accents for Warm Neutrals
Transitioning your space from bright and airy to cozy and inviting doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by swapping lightweight summer pieces for earthy textures like wood and woven baskets. These small changes make a big impact.
Everyday Items in Wood and Baskets
I swear by acacia wood trays—they’re like a cozy hug for your coffee table. Pair them with amber glass vases or stacked books for instant warmth. Thrifted baskets add texture and storage; try labeling them “Summer Coastal” for easy seasonal swaps.
Pottery Barn’s suede pillows (obsessed with their saddle-stitch design!) bridge the gap between seasons. For shelves, layer baskets with neutral-toned books. Pro tip: Skip premature pumpkins—opt for pine cones or dried florals first.
Clearing the Way for Fall Transitions
Anchor your room with a walnut-toned console or oak stool. Neutral color palettes (think taupe, cream, and warm whites) create harmony. Liz Marie Blog’s mantel makeover proves less is more—leave breathing room between decor.
- Storage hack: Use clear bins labeled by season.
- Thrifting: Hunt for unique baskets at local stores.
- Texture mix: Combine woven trays with ceramic accents.
For more fall decorating inspiration, check out these easy swaps. Remember: It’s about progress, not perfection!
3. Late Summer Decor with Natural Harvest Elements
Fruit isn’t just for eating—it’s the secret weapon for effortless seasonal styling. Whether it’s a bowl of NY peaches or a vintage crate of apples, these edible accents bring warmth to your kitchen, dining area, or table. Best part? They’re budget-friendly and smell divine.
Decorating with Peaches, Pears, and Apples
I turned my farmers market haul into a centerpiece last year using a dough bowl and wooden crocks. Layer nectarines with sprigs of eucalyptus for texture, or stack apples on a cake stand for height. Pro tip: Swap fruits weekly to keep displays fresh (and snackable!).
For a rustic touch, try Etsy’s pear print artwork above a fruit-filled dough board. Or go bold with bushel baskets of peaches—just line them with linen to prevent bruising. If ants invade (learned this the hard way!), place cinnamon sticks nearby as a natural deterrent.
Creative Displays: Bowls, Dough Boards, and Mantels
Style your kitchen island with tiered fruit bowls and botanical art. Mini apple baskets on the mantel add charm, while stamped crates (use a wood-burning tool!) double as storage. Ways to repurpose? Turn overripe fruit into preserves or bake a pie—decor today, dessert tomorrow!
- Farmers market finds: Mix figs and pears for a luxe look.
- Food safety: Wash fruit and rotate every 2–3 days.
- Multi-use pieces: Dough boards transition from serving trays to charcuterie displays.
For more inspiration, try pairing amber glass vases with citrus branches. It’s all about celebrating nature’s bounty—one juicy peach at a time.
4. Introduce Cozy Textures and Layers
There’s something magical about layering textures as the season shifts—it’s like wrapping your home in a cozy hug. From chunky knit blankets to hand-thrown pottery, these small tweaks make a space feel instantly warmer. Here’s how to blend texture and function for a seamless transition.
Throw Pillows and Blankets in Earthy Tones
I swear by mixing saddle-stitch pillows with linen covers—it’s a foolproof combo. Homesense’s cable-knit throws (under $30!) are perfect for draping over sofas. Fold them diagonally for a relaxed vibe, or stack them in a woven basket for easy access.
For rug layering, try jute topped with a sheepskin. It adds depth without overwhelming the room. Pro tip: Use non-slip pads underneath to keep everything secure.
Woven Trays and Amber Glass Vessels
Acacia wood trays are my go-to for corralling remotes and candles. Pair them with amber glass bottles (Etsy has vintage finds under $20) for a warm color pop. Thrift stores often have unique pieces—just soak them in vinegar water to remove labels.
DIY Pottery and Dried Florals
Get crafty with air-dry clay ($10 on Amazon) to make imperfect bowls—kids love helping! Display them with dried hydrangeas or eucalyptus for organic texture. Bonus: These DIY projects double as heartfelt gifts.
- Safety first: Keep candles 12 inches away from textiles.
- Basket styling: Mix Nantucket weaves with tribal patterns for contrast.
- Dried florals: Spritz with hairspray to prevent shedding.
Whether you’re knitting a blanket or hunting for amber glass, remember—it’s about progress, not perfection. These ways to layer things will make your space feel like a cozy retreat.
5. Set the Mood with Seasonal Scents
Scents have a sneaky way of transporting us—one whiff of cinnamon can instantly conjure cozy memories. As we transition between seasons, fragrance becomes the invisible thread that ties your home decor together. Whether you prefer flickering candles or diffused oils, these ways to scent your space make the shift feel natural.
Subtle Fall Candles That Won’t Overwhelm
I learned the hard way that not all autumn scents play nice together—my “pumpkin spice explosion” experiment left our living room smelling like a Yankee Candle factory. Now I stick to balanced blends like Crisp Campfire Apple (Yankee’s bestseller) or Antique Candle Co.’s Spiced Pear. For smaller rooms, votives or 6-ounce jars prevent overpowering.
Safety first: Trim wicks to ¼ inch and never burn candles near drapes—especially during warmer months when windows are open. Local makers like Georgia’s Mountain Made Candles use soy wax that burns cleaner than paraffin.
Essential Oils for Gradual Transitions
My diffuser gets a seasonal refresh with clove + orange oil (3:1 ratio)—it’s like autumn in a bottle without being too heavy. For back-to-school time, try peppermint to boost focus in home offices. Pro tip: Clean your diffuser weekly with vinegar to prevent oil buildup.
Pet owners note: Skip tea tree and eucalyptus oils around cats. Instead, try pet-safe vanilla or chamomile blends. I keep a small rollerball of lavender in my purse for instant calm during hectic seasonal transitions.
- Scent pairing: Match amber glass vessels with spice notes, clear bottles with citrus
- DIY simmer pots: Apple slices + cinnamon sticks + orange peel in a crockpot
- Sensory memory: My grandma’s kitchen inspired my love for baking-spice fragrances
For more inspiration on light seasonal scents, these fresh-air ideas blend summer’s brightness with autumn’s warmth perfectly.
6. Craft a Late Summer Tablescape
A thoughtfully arranged tablescape can transform any meal into a special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet breakfast, these ways to style your dining space blend simplicity with seasonal charm.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiHl0B9dbzk
Neutral Palettes Inspired by Gardens
I love using soft greens, creamy whites, and terracotta tones—like a summer garden fading into fall. Try layering linen placemats with rattan chargers for texture. Pro tip: Add a sprig of rosemary to each napkin for a fragrant touch.
DIY Napkins and Centerpieces
Peach-dyed napkins are easier than you think! Simmer fabric with beet juice and vinegar for 30 minutes. Pair them with a DIY centerpiece:
- Fill amber glass vases with faux flowers (Costco’s peonies look real!)
- Use thrifted china for mismatched charm
- Fold napkins into pocket shapes for utensils
Mixing Fresh and Faux Florals
Combine grocery-store dahlias with dried eucalyptus for budget-friendly drama. Keep arrangements low (under 12 inches) so guests can chat across the table. Ways to save? Swap fresh blooms weekly but keep faux stems as a base.
For a kid-friendly hack, let little ones arrange mini pumpkins or painted pine cones. Remember: Your kitchen table tells a story—make it one you love!
7. Savor the Season with Simple Updates
Small changes can make your space feel brand-new without a full makeover. As we savor summer’s last days, I focus on gradual shifts—like swapping light linens for woven throws or adding a cinnamon-scented candle. Your home’s vibe should evolve as naturally as the leaves.
Here’s my go-to checklist for this season’s shift:
- Rotate decor in one room at a time (no overwhelm!)
- Mix dried florals with fresh blooms for texture
- Try simple summer updates to ease into fall
I keep a loose “decorating calendar” in my planner—August is for neutral tones, September for cozy layers. Remember: It’s about progress, not perfection. Want more inspiration? Join my newsletter for exclusive seasonal tips!
However you refresh your space, enjoy the process. Happy decorating!