As the days grow shorter and the air takes on a crisp chill, there’s nothing better than getting cosy for autumn. This time of year is all about embracing warmth, comfort, and tranquillity. Whether you're a fan of snuggling up with a soft blanket, lighting a fragrant candle, or simply making your home feel inviting, autumn provides the perfect backdrop for nesting indoors. In this article, we'll explore how to create a warm, welcoming space with candles, blankets, and other cosy essentials to help you fully enjoy the autumn season.
Why Getting Cosy for Autumn is So Important
Autumn is often seen as a time of transition—moving from the carefree days of summer to the slower, reflective months of winter. This shift calls for adjustments in our surroundings and routines, particularly in how we create comfort in our living spaces. Making your home feel cosy during autumn isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about well-being. Studies have shown that our environments directly affect our mood, and creating a warm, serene space can help combat seasonal depression and improve overall happiness.
Benefits of Creating a Cosy Autumn Atmosphere
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Enhanced relaxation: A soft, peaceful environment helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation.
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Warmth and comfort: Autumn can bring cooler weather, and cosy décor helps keep you warm and snug.
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Mindfulness and well-being: A well-organised and serene space encourages mindfulness and mental clarity.
Candles: The Heart of Autumn Ambience
No cosy autumn setting is complete without candles. Their soft, flickering glow creates a soothing atmosphere, while scented candles can evoke the very essence of autumn. Whether you prefer the subtle warmth of vanilla or the spicy notes of cinnamon and clove, candles are a must for getting cosy in autumn.
Choosing the Best Candles for Autumn
To set the perfect mood, choose candles that match the autumnal vibe both in scent and appearance. Some popular autumn candle scents include:
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Pumpkin spice: A classic autumn scent with warm spices and sweet notes.
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Cinnamon and clove: Spicy and aromatic, this scent adds a cosy, nostalgic feel to any room.
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Vanilla: Smooth and sweet, vanilla blends well with other autumn scents.
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Apple and cedarwood: Perfect for bringing the crisp outdoors inside, this fragrance is fresh yet woody.
Beyond scent, consider the colour of your candles. Earthy tones like burnt orange, deep reds, and warm browns enhance the autumn aesthetic and complement the season’s natural palette. See the range of
candles availabe from The Oxford Kitchen & Garden Company
here
Candle Placement for Maximum Cosiness
How you display your candles matters as much as the scents you choose. Create cosy focal points by placing candles:
- On your mantelpiece for a warm, inviting glow in your living room.
- In lanterns or glass jars for a rustic, farmhouse look.
- Around your bath for a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere.
- In clusters of varying heights to add depth and interest to your space.
Blankets and Throws: Your Essential Autumn Companions
Few things are as comforting as wrapping yourself in a soft, luxurious blanket when the temperatures start to drop. Blankets and throws are essential for getting cosy for autumn, not only because they offer warmth but also because they add texture and style to your décor.
How to Choose the Perfect Autumn Blanket
When selecting blankets and throws, consider both functionality and style. Here are a few things to look for:
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Material: Opt for thicker fabrics like wool, fleece, or knitted materials that offer warmth and comfort.
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Colour: Neutral tones like beige, grey, or olive green work well, but you can also opt for autumnal hues like mustard yellow, deep burgundy, or forest green.
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Texture: Layering different textures, such as a chunky knit throw over a smooth cotton blanket, can add depth to your living space.
Creative Ways to Display Your Blankets and Throws
Incorporating blankets into your autumn décor is easy and effective. Try these ideas:
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Draped over your sofa: Place a throw blanket over the arm or back of your couch for easy access and a pop of colour.
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Rolled up in a basket: Store rolled blankets in a wicker basket beside your sofa or bed for both decoration and function.
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Layered on your bed: Layer different blankets on your bed to create a plush, inviting retreat.
See the range of
blankets & throws availabe from The Oxford Kitchen & Garden Company
here
Soft Furnishings: Cushions, Rugs, and Curtains for Autumn Comfort
To take your autumn cosiness to the next level, focus on soft furnishings. Cushions, rugs, and curtains can instantly change the feel of a room, adding warmth, texture, and colour. These small changes make a big difference in making your home feel like a true autumn haven.
Choosing Cushions for Autumn
Cushions are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update your living space for autumn. When choosing cushions:
- Opt for warm, rich tones like rust, maroon, or deep green.
- Select textured fabrics such as velvet, wool, or faux fur for added warmth.
- Mix and match different sizes and shapes to create a layered, comfortable look.
Rugs for a Cosy Autumn Floor
Adding a rug can instantly make a room feel more comfortable, especially as the weather cools. Consider:
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Thick, plush rugs: These add warmth and softness underfoot.
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Natural fibres: Wool or jute rugs in neutral tones add a rustic, autumnal feel to any space.
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Layering rugs: Try placing a smaller, patterned rug on top of a larger plain one to add visual interest and texture.
Curtains: The Unsung Hero of Cosy Décor
Curtains are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in creating a cosy autumn atmosphere. Heavier fabrics like velvet or thermal curtains help keep the cold out while adding a luxurious, cocoon-like feeling to your home. Consider swapping out light, summery curtains for something more substantial as the season changes.
Scented Oils and Diffusers: Elevating Your Autumn Experience
While candles provide both warmth and fragrance, diffusers and scented oils are another way to immerse your home in the comforting scents of autumn. Diffusers offer a flame-free option to enjoy fragrances that can linger for hours, making them a great addition to your cosy autumn setup.
Popular Autumn Essential Oils and Scents
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Cedarwood: A deep, earthy scent that brings the outdoors inside.
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Sweet orange: A bright, uplifting fragrance that pairs well with spicier notes.
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Frankincense: A resinous, warm scent perfect for colder months.
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Ginger: Adds a touch of spice and warmth to your home.
Where to Place Your Diffusers for Best Results
To maximise the effect of your diffusers, place them in high-traffic areas where the scent can permeate through your home. Ideal spots include:
- Living rooms and entryways for a welcoming scent as soon as you enter.
- Bedrooms for a relaxing, comforting atmosphere.
- Bathrooms to create a spa-like experience.
Lighting: The Key to a Warm Autumn Glow
Lighting plays an essential role in getting cosy for autumn. As the natural light fades earlier in the day, the right lighting can help create a warm, inviting glow in your home.
Best Lighting Options for Autumn Cosiness
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Soft, warm lighting: Replace harsh white bulbs with softer, warm-toned ones to create a more soothing environment.
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Fairy lights: String lights add a magical, twinkling effect and can be placed in glass jars, around door frames, or along shelves.
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Table lamps and floor lamps: Use lamps with dimmer switches to adjust the brightness according to the mood you want to set.
Candle Alternatives for a Flame-Free Cosy Vibe
If you prefer to avoid real candles, there are several alternatives that can still provide the cosy, flickering effect:
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LED candles: These battery-operated candles mimic the flicker of real flames but are safer and longer-lasting.
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Himalayan salt lamps: Not only do they emit a soft, warm glow, but they’re also believed to purify the air and promote relaxation.
Final Touches: Personalising Your Cosy Autumn Space
Personalising your space is key to making it feel truly cosy. Small, thoughtful details can elevate your home and make it uniquely yours.
Personalise Your Space with Autumnal Décor
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Seasonal wreaths: Hang a wreath of autumn leaves, pinecones, or dried flowers on your door to welcome the season.
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Autumn-themed art: Swap out summer prints for autumnal paintings, photos, or artwork featuring forests, leaves, or autumn colours.
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Pumpkins and gourds: Whether real or faux, these classic autumn decorations add a rustic touch to any space.
Incorporate Natural Elements into Your Autumn Décor
Bringing nature indoors is a great way to enhance the autumnal feel of your home. Try these ideas:
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Dried flowers and foliage: Arrangements of dried lavender, wheat, or eucalyptus bring the outside world into your living room.
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Wooden accents: Rustic wooden bowls, trays, or picture frames add an organic, natural vibe to your home.
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Pinecones and acorns: Scatter these in bowls or vases as simple yet effective autumn decorations.
Conclusion: Embrace the Autumn Season with Cosiness
Getting cosy for autumn is about more than just physical comfort—it's about creating an environment that brings joy, warmth, and relaxation. By incorporating soft blankets, scented candles, warm lighting, and personal touches into your home, you can transform any space into a snug haven perfect for the cooler months ahead. So, light a candle, grab your favourite blanket, and embrace the beautiful cosiness of autumn.
