Top Tips for a Cosy Autumn: Your Guide to Snug, Strictly Nights

As the days grow shorter and the crispness of autumn takes over from the lingering warmth of summer, it’s time to embrace the seasonal shift and transform your home into a snug haven. With 22nd September marking the official start of autumn in the UK, there’s no better moment to prepare for chilly evenings, crackling candles, and the cosy comfort of Strictly Come Dancing and The Great British Bake Off. Whether you’re team Anton or rooting for Prue’s latest budding bakers, your home can be the perfect cosy retreat to watch it all unfold. Here’s how to get your space feeling warm and welcoming as the leaves start to fall.

Windows and Doors: Your Best Friends or Biggest Heat Losers?

Let’s face it: windows and doors can be big culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. As autumn settles in, draught-proofing is key to keeping your home toasty. First up, take a good look at your windows. Those beautiful summer breezes we’ve been enjoying? Well, they’re about to turn into sneaky autumn draughts. 

Invest in some thick curtains – think wool, velvet, or anything with a heavy, luxurious feel. Not only do they block out the cold, but they also add an instant touch of autumnal warmth to your living space. Pulling those curtains shut as soon as it gets dark will help trap heat inside, so you can stay cosy without having to crank up the heating.

Then, there’s your doors. If you find yourself shivering every time a chilly draught sneaks in under the front door, it’s time to bring in the big guns: draught excluders. These trusty, often quirky, items are an inexpensive way to seal those heat-leaking gaps. Choose from classic sausage dog shapes or something a bit more modern—either way, they’ll keep the warmth where it belongs: inside.

Rugs: Cosy Up from the Ground Up

If you have wooden or laminate floors, they might look stunning in the summer, but come autumn, they can feel downright chilly underfoot. The solution? Rugs, rugs, and more rugs! Layering rugs in key areas, like your living room and bedroom, not only helps insulate the floor but also adds texture and warmth to your space.

Think about colours like rust, ochre, or deep burgundy – these rich tones not only evoke autumn but make everything feel a little cosier. A thick, plush rug by the sofa means you can curl up barefoot without shivering every time your feet hit the floor.

Colour Your Home Warm

As the days grow darker, your home décor can lighten up—figuratively speaking, of course. Now’s the time to swap out bright summer tones for something a bit moodier. Autumn is the perfect season to embrace warm, earthy tones like rust, amber, and mustard. Add pops of these colours with cushions, throws, and even smaller touches like tealight holders or vases. There’s something undeniably comforting about the glow of amber glass when the evening sun dips below the horizon.

 Light It Right: Soft and Subtle

And then there’s the lighting. It’s time to ban the big light! Soft, ambient lighting is the secret weapon to turning your home into a cosy sanctuary. Opt for lamps dotted around the room rather than relying on the overhead light. This not only softens the feel of the room but creates those lovely warm pockets of light that are perfect for curling up with a cup of tea (or perhaps a cheeky glass of red).

For an extra layer of cosiness, consider adding scented candles. As the autumn chill sets in, there’s nothing better than the warm glow of candlelight mixed with the earthy scent of oud, sandalwood, or bergamot. And, of course, we can’t ignore the quintessential autumn candle scent: pumpkin. Whether you’re a fan of it or not, it’s bound to bring a smile to your face as soon as that spicy sweetness fills the air. Plus, they’re perfect for setting the mood during Bake Off – a cheeky nod to those cinnamon-laced creations on screen.

Saturday Night Cosiness: Strictly Essentials

Saturday evenings are officially for pyjamas, slippers, and a bit of sparkle – both on screen and off. As you settle down to watch Strictly Come Dancing, make sure you’re wrapped in a soft, chunky throw. Bonus points if it’s in one of those gorgeous autumn tones we mentioned earlier. It’s the ultimate companion whether you’re cheering for a Charleston or critiquing a Cha-cha-cha.

And don’t forget the snacks! Make the most of your cosy autumn haven with some homemade goodies inspired by The Great British Bake Off. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, adding to the snug atmosphere. Apple crumble or cinnamon buns, anyone?

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Autumn Vibe

In the UK, autumn is all about embracing the cosiness while the weather outside takes a turn. By focusing on the small touches—whether it’s a draught excluder at the door, a soft rug underfoot, or that perfect warm-toned cushion—you can create a home that’s as inviting as a Paul Hollywood handshake. So, as the season shifts and the leaves turn golden, it’s time to put your feet up, light those candles, and get comfy. Whether you’re watching a Paso Doble or a soggy bottom moment, make sure your home is the ultimate autumn retreat.