How to do Autumn Décor Sustainably
Lots of people are choosing to switch up their home ornaments and decorations as the seasons change. This is a lovely way to vary home décor and mark the rhythm of the year but can involve spending a lot of money on non-sustainable items.
Here’s our guide to doing autumn décor the sustainable way:
1. Natural Elements: In autumn, nature gifts us lots of gorgeous things to incorporate into wreaths and arrange in bowls or on tables.
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◦ Collect pinecones, acorns, colourful leaves, and even branches from your garden or local park.
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◦ Use branches as foundations for mantel and window sill displays, adding in colourful natural autumn finds
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◦ For an easy table centrepiece, fill a bowl or clear vase with pinecones, acorns and horse chestnuts
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◦ Consider using dried flowers and grasses, which can add texture and warmth to your space.
1. Upcycled Decor: Get creative with items you already own or can source at a charity shop
◦ With some ribbon or lace, old glass jars can be transformed into candle holders or vases
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◦ Fabric scraps can be sewn into autumn-themed table runners decorative cushions, or even napkin rings.
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◦ Jumpers can be upcycled into cosy vase holders or pumpkin ornaments. There are plenty of tutorials online.
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1. Avoid plastic: There are lots of plastic garlands, ornaments and fake flowers around but sustainable options often bring a warmer, more personal touch.
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◦ Instead of opting for plastic, choose real pumpkins for your autumn decor. They can be carved for Halloween and later cooked into soups or pies, or simply displayed as is, then composted.
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◦ Ditch plastic autumn fairy lights and use pretty fallen leaves to create a beautiful, natural display. Wallflower Kitchen shows you how to preserve leaves using wax paper. https://wallflowerkitchen.com/diy-autumn-leaf-fairy-lights/
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◦ If you want to buy ornaments, look for wooden or bamboo items sourced from sustainable forests and reuse them year on year.
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1. Eco-Friendly Lighting: Use LED lights for your autumn displays. They consume less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Consider string lights or lanterns made from recyclable materials to create a cozy ambiance. You can also use solar-powered lights outdoors to illuminate your garden.
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2. Seasonal Plants: Incorporate potted plants like chrysanthemums, ornamental kale, or even small evergreen trees. These can be enjoyed throughout the season and then planted in your garden or kept as houseplants, reducing waste compared to cut flowers.
3. DIY Crafting: There are tons of autumn DIY craft projects online. Why not make an occasion of it and get together with friends and family to make autumn-themed art or wreaths using leaves, twigs, and other natural materials. This can be a fun way to spend time together while making unique decorations.
◦ Hobbycraft has a great selection of DIY craft projects all in one place: from simple crocheted pumpkins to complex quilted table runners https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/ideas/autumn-home-decor-ideas.html
◦ To get kids involved, try one of the many ideas on this page: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/g33276111/fall-crafts-for-kids/
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4. Reuse: It goes without saying that sustainable décor means reusing what you have. If you want to add to your collection, try making something new every year rather than buying it and start a fun tradition!
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Creating autumn decor sustainably not only enhances your home’s seasonal charm but also allows you to celebrate the beauty of nature while minimizing your environmental impact. We hope you enjoy getting creative!
How to Dress for Autumn
As the leaves turn shades of crimson and gold, and the air carries a hint of crispness, it's time to say goodbye to summer attire and welcome the cozy embrace of autumn fashion. Dressing for this transitional season requires a blend of style and practicality. In this blog post, we'll guide you on how to dress for autumn, offering tips and outfit ideas to help you make the most of this beautiful season whilst making sustainable choices.
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Layering is Key:
Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so mastering the art of layering is essential. Start with a lightweight, long-sleeved base layer, add a versatile cardigan or sweater, and top it off with a stylish jacket or coat. This way, you can adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.
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Choose Earthy Tones:
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Embrace the colours of autumn by incorporating earthy tones into your wardrobe. Think warm shades like deep greens, rich browns, burnt oranges, and classic neutrals. These hues not only complement the season but also exude a cozy, autumnal vibe.
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Don't Forget About Denim:
A good pair of jeans is a timeless autumn staple. Opt for classic denim in various cuts and washes to create versatile outfits. Pair them with cozy sweaters or dress them up with a tailored blazer for a polished yet comfortable look.
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Boots for Every Occasion:
Autumn is synonymous with boots. From ankle boots to knee-highs, there's a style for every occasion. Consider investing in a timeless, durable, pair that you can wear year after year. And don't forget to accessorize with warm socks or leg warmers for extra coziness.
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Accessorise with Scarves:
Scarves are both functional and fashionable during autumn. They can add a pop of colour to your outfit while keeping you warm. Experiment with different scarf styles, from oversized blanket scarves to sleek silk options, to match your mood and the weather.
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Transitional Outerwear:
An essential part of dressing for autumn is selecting the right outerwear. Opt for a versatile, mid-weight jacket or coat that can take you from brisk mornings to cool evenings. Trench coats, leather jackets, and quilted vests are popular choices. A well-made classic coat will look great for years. Look for an ethically made new item or search out a high quality jacket from a charity shop.
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Incorporate Texture:
Autumn fashion is all about texture. Experiment with materials like tweed, corduroy, and knitwear to add depth and warmth to your outfits. A textured blazer or a chunky knit sweater can instantly elevate your autumn style.
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Hats and Gloves:
As temperatures drop, don't forget to accessorise with a stylish hat and a pair of gloves. Not only do they keep you warm, but they also complete your autumn look. Consider felt hats, berets, or leather gloves for a chic touch.
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Personalise Your Style:
Ultimately, the most important aspect of dressing for autumn is to express your unique style. Mix and match the pieces that resonate with you, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations. Your autumn wardrobe should reflect your personality and make you feel confident.
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Upcycle and Repurpose:
A great way to personalise your style, have fun, reduce your environmental impact and save money is to get creative by upcycling your old clothing items. Transform a worn-out denim jacket into a trendy vest or turn an old sweater into cozy leg warmers. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch to your autumn wardrobe. #Upcycling #RepurposeFashion
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Shop Mindfully
Think carefully about what you purchase and where you shop. Opt for clothing made from natural and organic materials like organic cotton, wool, hemp, and Tencel which have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials. Choose ethical outlets and look for certified organic labels, circular fashion and recycled materials.
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Autumn is a season of transformation, and you can give your wardrobe a stylish and sustainable transformation too. By shopping mindfully, embracing layers, earthy tones, cosy textures, and essential accessories, you'll be ready to step out into the beauty and coziness of autumn with a clear conscience.