Special to the Advocate

Cooler days. Longer shadows. Leaves changing colors. All signs that summer is ending and fall is beginning.

As your wardrobe changes from short-sleeved pastels to corduroys and sweaters, your home should reflect the change in seasons as well. Daryle Gibbs, Director of Product Development and design expert at Pier 1, is here to share some simple tips on taking your home from "tropical" to "harvest."

Harvest Hues

Glorious golds, rich russets and soft, mossy greens are the "it" colors for fall. These colors act as a strong neutral background for several different statements. There are many simple ways to incorporate these colors into your existing home d\u00E9cor explains Gibbs. "Add some texture to your dining room table by using a cordoroy throw or striped rug as a tablecloth," suggests Gibbs. "Our Sindhi Multi-Stripe rug would serve as a great tablecloth as you feast on a hearty, autumn meal."

The beginning of fall signifies change and new beginnings. Accent items like pillows, throws and rugs act as "instant mood changers" and will transform the whole atmosphere of a room. "Add our quilted paisley Rajastan Throw and sheared velvet pillows in cinnamon and caramel to your couch for an instant update," says Gibbs. "The crisp, fall-like colors will leave you feeling energized and renewed."

Gibbs also suggests throwing down an area rug or floor runner for those areas of your house that get a lot of traffic. "Adding a cotton, colored rug is a great way to protect bare feet from chilly autumn wood floors and spice up lonely tile floors," explains Gibbs. "If your floors are carpeted, layer a thick, nubby rug over your wall-to-wall carpet for a look that instantly projects warmth."

Right In Front of Your Eyes

People often ignore their windows when it's one of the easiest and most apparent changes one can make. "The beginning of autumn is a great time to trade in those sheer, summery window panels for something warmer and more dramatic," says style expert Gibbs. "Elegant taffeta window treatments in red and gold will immediately give your room a punch of color," says Gibbs.

Gibbs also suggests layering the bamboo shades you used for summer with more substantial curtains for added depth and color. Additional window coverings serve as insulators for keeping heat in as the temperature falls. If you're not ready to change your drapes, fun beaded tie-backs and accent charms for window panels will also add personality and flair to a room.

'Tis the Season for Lighting

As the days get shorter, the need for extra lighting becomes crucial. Accent lamps and hanging lanterns are great options for additional lighting that will also add color and flair to your space. "We have these mod looking fabric lantern lamps in different shapes that don't look like your 'typical' accent lamp," says Gibbs. "It's amazing the impact one small accent lamp can have on an entire room."

Unconventional nightlights in rattan, silk and faux feathers can also help light up those dark hallways.

Something in the Air

Changing something as simple as the scents in your home is another easy way to welcome the new season. Gibbs suggests switching out those summer-scented candles for some that reflect the mood of the season. "Candles are a softer, less intrusive way to light up a room," explains Gibbs. "Spiced Orange, Cranberry Citrus and Cinnamon Roll are just a few of the new candle fragrances for the fall and holiday season," says Gibbs. "These smells are sure to evoke thoughts of homemade pies and cranberry dressing."

Mission Accomplished

Now that your work is done, it's time to welcome football weather and holiday guests with the fresh look and smell of autumn in your home. Sit back, open your windows and enjoy the crisp autumn air.

Courtesy of ARA Content.