There is a reason that fall brings on what’s affectionately known as “sweater weather.” This is the perfect season for layering, after all—and turns out, layering is designers’ favorite styling trick to get things warm and toasty at home.
As it turns out, layering and autumn don’t just pair well in the seasonal world. According to some of our favorite designers, they’re a key component in the interior design world this time of year, too.
We asked designers for some top tips on how to best create beautiful layers in our own home, and create the cozy, fall rooms of our dreams.
Small Layers Can Have a Big Impact
One of the best things about this trend is that you can do it in small doses, says Lauren Sullivan of Well x Design. Focus on small, seasonal changes, like switching out throw pillows for heavier options like velvet and layering in cozy throws and blankets.
Kathryn Murphy of Kathryn Murphy Interiors agrees, and notes that small layers are often the best way to create the look of a finished, designed space.
“For fall right now, I like to layer in plaid or herringbone throws for color and pattern, alongside cozy velvet pillows in rich, muted colors,” she says. “I love a mix of deep burgundy and rich yellow, along with olive green and terracotta.”
It’s not just about adding more fabrics and textures, though. Don’t forget to change over your vases too, adding in some fall florals, Murphy suggests, and complete the cozy vibe by layering accessories on trays or stacks of books.
Layered Lighting Means More Warmth
As the nights get darker and the days get shorter, a beautiful indoor lighting scheme is absolutely key, says Amber Dunford, the style director at Beth Bath & Beyond. According to Dunford, the best way to do this is by making sure your various light sources are distributed evenly.
In a living room, opt for a pendant or chandelier in addition to recessed lights, she explains. This helps define the main territory by creating a visual anchor from above and setting the room’s tone.
If you’re eager to add wall lighting, Dunford suggests sconces. These work well above artwork, a fireplace, or a hallway or adjacent corridor.
“Sconces make artwork feel more high-end and highlight architecture,” Dunford says. “Table or floor lamps provide a nice glow to seating areas and help a space feel more inviting.”
You can also apply these ideas to rooms that usually rely solely on overhead lighting—autumn is a great time to warm up your kitchen, for example. Sullivan says this can be done with something as easy as a table lamp.
Use Bedding to Transition into Cool Weather
As a shoulder season, fall weather can move quickly from warm to cold. Layers are a great way to avoid getting caught shivering on the first cool night.
Dunford suggests adding a duvet with a plush insert or simply topping your bed with more layers. “Fresh sheets paired with a nice down-filled duvet and a knit throw or fur at the foot of the bed are a comfy combo for cooler months,” she says.
Murphy agrees, even if pulling out a big, cozy comforter at the first sign of cold weather can be tempting.
“When that fall heatwave inevitably hits, it’s just too much,” she says, and suggests instead adding a heavier quilt on top of your summer-weight bedspread first.
It’s a great way to add pattern and texture—try a printed linen bedspread paired with a cozy boucle or quilted blanket.
Shelby Van Daley of Daley Home is also a fan of layering her bed this time of year. “We often see that there is a layer missing from a bed when it comes to bedding, and this results in a flat, unimpressive finish,” she says.
To really get a well-designed look, Van Daley suggests using two to three layers of pillows and at least two layers of blankets. Duvet and coverlets or quilts will add a good amount of layering without being overdone.
Filter In the Autumn Sun
If you’ve had a black-out Roman shade all summer, Dunford suggests adding in a lighter-weight curtain to balance it out. This also allows you to customize the light flowing into your space.
As an alternative, a rattan shade pairs beautifully with a lightweight linen curtain, or, Dunford says, you can go for a more upscale look that will take you seamlessly into winter by opting for a champagne or jewel-toned velvet curtain.
You Can’t Go Wrong With Velvet
If you’re looking for the perfect cure-all fabric this time of year, Van Daley gave us a second vote for velvet—and it works for more than just curtains.
“Velvet pillows are a great way to add texture to your sofa and chairs, but also have a soft hand to them,” she says. “Look for solid or even patterned velvet fabric to enhance the warmth in your living room this season.”
