Hey, fabulous people! It is that magical time of the year again when the air turns crisp, the leaves morph into a collage of colors, and pumpkin spice dominates everything from lattes to candles. Fall is knocking at our door and bringing more than just apple cider.
Before you get all cozy and snuggle into the couch with your favorite throw blanket and a good book, let’s chat about transforming both your home and your closet to embrace this beautiful change of season. I mean, who doesn’t love a good seasonal refresh? So crank up the music, and let’s get organized!
First stop: the kiddos’ closets. If yours are anything like mine, they resemble more of a jumbled jungle than a closet. You’ve got sundresses next to snow boots, bathing suits tangled with Halloween costumes, and an army of barely worn sandals. Time to dive in!
Start by doing a quick inventory. Pull out everything, and I mean EVERYTHING. Turn it into a fun mission. Put the kiddos to work! Have them try on their clothes to see what still fits and what needs to go. (Ella was cooperative when I told her it’s a fashion show, but I had to bribe Easton.)
Why not get your girlfriends together for a closet clean out party?
This is the perfect time for a donation drop. Schools and charities always appreciate the extra help right when the season changes. If it’s in good condition and hasn’t seen the light of day in six months, let it go.
Now move on to your own wardrobe. Pack away those swimsuits and tank tops and bring forward those cuddly sweaters and boots. How fun to find your “favorite” sweater at the back of the closet!
Don’t forget to give everything a little freshening up, too. Air out items you haven’t worn lately or run them through the wash because the mustiness they acquire while tucked away at the top of your closet is no joke. Ever get to work and realize your sweater smells stale? Avoid that embarrassing situation before it happens.
And don’t rush yourself! Organizing can take some time if you get overwhelmed by the mess (like me), so block off your calendar and build in the time to step away. You can also call in a friend or hire help to force you to accomplish these tasks. And hey, who doesn’t feel a little lighter and brighter after a good declutter? Your space will feel less crowded and much more breathable.
Friends can help you focus!
Now it’s time for the rest of the house. A seasonal switch-up isn’t just about what you wear. A few tweaks will shift the whole atmosphere of your home toward a cozy fall vibe. Swap out those summer colors for warmer tones. I adore adding a splash of maroon or mustard to my living space, like a cozy blanket on the couch with mustard yellow throw pillows. And don’t forget a cute pumpkin decoration for the coffee table.
Also, support local! I have fallen in love with The Perfect Piece in Cary over the years. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind pieces — both vintage and modern — at decent prices.
Candles: light ’em up! Opt for scents like cinnamon, apple, or woodsy aromas to bring a hint of the outdoors inside. Nothing says “welcome, fall” like seasonal aromas wafting through your home. I love the Wood Cabin scent from Keap Candles. Look for candles made with soy, rapeseed, or coconut wax for the healthiest options.
Last, let’s spruce up the entrance. Hang a welcoming autumn wreath on your door to greet you with a warm embrace every time you come home. Switch your doormat to something fun and seasonal. It’s little touches like these that invite that cozy fall feeling into your space. I often get a preserved boxwood wreath and add a different color bow or tuck a few seasonal artificial flowers in it so you don’t have to keep changing out the whole wreath.
As we speed into this new season, it’s truly about more than just sweaters and hot drinks. It’s about creating a space that feels like a warm hug. It’s about standing still in gratitude for all the beauty fall brings and letting our surroundings reflect that joy and coziness.
So, cheers to fall, a cleaner closet, and a home that makes you smile. Grab that warm apple cider (or pumpkin spice), slip into your favorite flannel, hit up the NC State Fair, and let’s embrace the crisp air around us.
Stay connected @EricaDeLong
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