Trends Turn to Cozy and Comfortable Fall Entertaining

As the glorious days of summer slip into crisp evenings, the changing colors trigger a transition in seasonal décor. “There’s an exciting mix of texture and color in fall fashion that’s extending into home decorating,” says designer Julie Robbins. “As for tabletop, a big trend this season is blending patterns you wouldn’t ordinarily put on the same table. For example, paring a very exotic or modern pattern, like an animal print or an architectural design with a mainstream vintage Americana pattern such as Fiesta, or maybe mixing a polka dot pattern with fine china. It’s unexpected, but it really works.” Robbins helps customers put a new spin on their dinnerware as the lead designer at Replacements, Ltd. touted as the world’s largest retailer of old and new china, crystal, silver and collectibles. Robbins says shades of purple are trending this fall, including various tones of berry and plums, along with warm autumn oranges and sage. Popular textures lean toward natural materials such as burlap, leather and knits. If you really want to get your creative juices flowing, Robbins suggests repurposing an old shawl into a table runner. Get cozy with friends and family As home decor changes with fall trends, so is the way many entertain. Gatherings lean toward relaxed, cozy evenings making memories with friends and family; a respite before the upcoming busy holiday season. “My favorite autumn get-togethers are around the fireplace with homemade chili and cornbread — a very casual, blue jean kind of thing and that’s a big trend for fall entertaining,” Robbins says. “People are paring back and looking for ways to entertain that don’t mean setting a table for 12. This ranges from baby boomers looking to downsize to millennials who want substance over flash. It’s earthy and simple.” Robbins says fall root vegetables and apples coming into season signal a time for cool weather dishes and the tableware that goes with it, such as soup bowls and mugs. Canapé plates and individual dip bowls are perfect for tailgating and outdoor finger food buffets around a bonfire or fire pit, because these smaller pieces give guests the freedom to mingle. Reuse, repurpose, recycle Another great tip, when moving your entertaining out of the dining room: think about the space you’re going to use, then brainstorm innovative ways to repurpose things from your table. “I like to fill pitchers with flowers or fall foliage to create gorgeous accents that can be used outdoors or anywhere around the house,” says Replacements’ Product Marketing Manager, Keith Winkler. “It’s easy to turn a serving tray into a unique center piece by placing small mums, pansies or other fall potted plants in a nice arrangement on the tray. You can turn wine glasses upside down and place candles on the base to create unique holders. The possibilities are endless.”