Late summer can be a stumper for home décor.  It’s a bit early for fall (and not a pumpkin latte in sight!) but your bright summer decorations are getting a little long in the tooth.  It’s time for a late summer refresh!  With a few simple tweaks, you can enjoy a décor breather before bringing out the pumpkins.    Here are some tips:

Tip #1: Add White

White is not only restful and serene but also a welcome departure from the brighter palettes common in summer décor.  Late summer is a great time to consider a quick room repaint (nothing is fresher than a coat of white paint!) or bring in the wow with decorative objects and linens.  Either way, it’s a reprieve from the heat!  PRO TIP: Later summer is also a great time to bring in a pop of rich color to accent the white, such as navy, mustard, or rust.  As a bonus, a rich color or two will be a great segue into fall décor as the season nears.

Tip #2: Potted Flowers

For a quick fix, hit up the plant section!  Potted bloomers are a great way to freshen up a space.  Look for hardy options like Kalanchoes – they stay in bloom well and are easy to maintain.  Another great option is the polka-dot plant; while it doesn’t have blooms, the leaves are brightly colored in shades of pink and red, giving the effect of blooms.  PRO TIP: While at the supermarket, also look for other summer refresh décor like lemons, limes, and oranges.  They’re great for pops of fun color!

Tip #3: Add Texture

Late summer is a great time to bring in fresh textures like new linens or rugs, change out lampshades, or bring in some fresh pillows.  Bumping up texture is also a great way to create a solid base for fall decorating!  Natural materials are very popular yet still timeless; burlap, jute, leather, hide, and rattan.  Bringing any of these into your home will keep it fresh and ready for the jump into autumn!  PRO TIP: A question I get asked often is how to clean jute rugs.  As a natural fiber, jute does best if kept dry.  Shaking and vacuuming should take care of most dirt, but if you need more scrubbing (such as for a spill!) you can go over the spot with a barely damp brush.  If that isn’t enough, dry cleaning is your best bet.

BONUS TIP: For a fresh look, consider a large-scale art piece that is predominantly white.  It will completely change the look and feel of your home, and is a great conversation piece!