How to get more cozy this season!

This fall has been a series of second, then third and even fourth summers, with stretches of 80 degree sunshine becoming more commonplace than frost on the pumpkins. But now that it is November and things look like they have officially cooled off- I am ready to embrace the cozy that comes with this time of year. There are some things that are just tried and true (like red and green for Christmas) so here are my favorite ways to get ready for cozy season- that never go out of style!

Build a Fire!

There is nothing better than settling down in front of a fire with a warm beverage in a mug as the days grow shorter. If you don’t have a fireplace in your house- take it to the outdoors. Find a place to watch the moon rise and enjoy at least one campfire where the warmth can truly soak into your bones!

One of the strongest trends in outdoor living spaces is the addition of a wood burning fireplace to the patio. These can be part of a seating area or a focal point for a pool or hot tub space.

This is an ideal way to acknowledge that- here in the Midwest- our outdoor days don’t need be limited by temperatures or when the sun goes down.

Make it Look Extra Cozy with Lighting!

So many cultures also acknowledge the lighting of candles during the Winter Solstice to supplement the hours of natural day light. This is what led to the adaption of holiday lights which in turn have given us a desire to cozy up all sorts of spaces with strings of lights.

I’ve said it before and you will hear me say it again- if you are questioning the coziness of any of your spaces, add some patio lights and you will create instant magic- I guarantee it!

Appreciate the Natural Elements!

Looking around, the last trees to lose their leaves are typically the oak. They begin in a ruddy orange and eventually patina to a leathery brown. Collecting these for your centerpieces in your home can give you a connection to this fleeting season that exists between the royal display of autumn colors and the crisp renewal of winter snow.

The other easy to collect sign of the season is the noble pine cone. A few of these in a big wood bowl can easily transition from fall to winter.

Think about Cozy Color Schemes!

If you have mostly greys-

Add Orange.

If you have navy and powder blues-

Try hunter green or emerald green.

If you have golden tones or yellows-

Go for that pop of red buffalo check!

And Lastly-

Choose Cozy Textures!

All you need is a plaid throw blanket to cozy up any space. I touched on the seasonal magic of this design last fall with my Mad About Plaid article. Wood grain, birch bark and faux fur are also great elements to add that touch of “fall meeting winter” to your inside decor.

It may also be time to reintroduce the plaid thermos we brought out for our nostalgic summer camp feel and stowed away for a few months-

And don’t forget that anything “sweater” fabric is also a must for cozy season! I have a new favorite sweater mug and these sweater pumpkins I bought from the Bonduel Founder’s Day market last fall are the perfect touch of texture.

If you choose to do all of these ideas or none of them, just remember to enjoy the changing seasons! Grab a stocking cap and a good pair of gloves and watch the first snow fall of the year, and then come inside to a room in your house that is glowing and bright and makes you feel right at home.

What to Read Next…

Interested in more fall decorating ideas?

From Halloween to Harvest- Easy decorations that transition into November!

In Case you Missed It!