Halloween Decor That Doesn’t Look Cheesy

Halloween Decor

Halloween Decor That Doesn’t Look Cheesy

‘Tis the season for all things spooky, frightful, and autumnal. This year, it’s likely been a bit harder to find the motivation to decorate. It’s not too late, but hey, let’s face it: sometimes Halloween decor can look a little . . . how should we put this . . . cheesy. From the overly cartoonish and gory to the creepy and legitimately scary, you’ve certainly seen some version of Halloween that pushes the boundaries of good taste.

But there are Halloween decor options out there that won’t make you want to roll your eyes (or run and hide). Some of them work for the entire fall season, too.

Incorporate Black Candles

Mixing some black candles into your home decor is a chic way to give a nod to Halloween without going overboard. Black candlesticks or a collection of black pillars of varying heights will work as well. If you don’t want to go black, another solid color — think purple, orange, green, or even white with autumnal accents — will do.

Stick to Pumpkins in Neutral Tones

While front steps and balconies are a great place to show off your love for decorative gourd season, you’ll appreciate your decorations more if they’re inside. White or pale-gray pumpkins are a great way to bring in that seasonal flair without making your home feel like a pumpkin patch. For a pop of color, surround with dried flowers or fallen leaves.

Decorate Your Mantle (If You Have One)

A staple of December holiday decor, a mantel scene makes your home feel festive in a way that can be as simple or as over-the-top as you would like. Try a combination of lanterns, glass bottles, mirrored accents, and candles, or place LED-string lights inside of textured glass pumpkins like these from Pottery Barn for a twinkling effect.

Make a ‘Pick Your Poison’ Bar Cart

If you plan on hosting a small, socially-distanced gathering, or you simply like to treat yourself, create a fun space for your favorite Halloween sweets and potions. You can serve hot chocolate, cider, and candy, or make something with an added kick for the 21+ crowd. We’ve included this tutorial from Kiss Me Darling to help you get started.

Design a Bewitching Coffee-Table Look

You don’t have to believe in magic to design a Halloween tabletop look that is absolutely spellbinding. Carefully stack your favorite leather-bound horror classics, or buy a bespoke tarot deck and surround it with fun found objects and your favorite crystals for an ethereal feel.

Create a Wooded Entry Scene

Skip the inflatable ghosts — use collected branches from a local park or your own backyard for a Sleepy-Hollow-meets-Alfred-Hitchcock vibe. This tutorial from createcraftlove.com can take you through the process step-by-step.

Whatever you do, just remember that you can keep your Halloween decorations as subtle or bold as you want! You’re the boss. And if cheesy is your thing, we’ll never judge. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for all. Happy Halloween!