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Autumnal

Are you looking to turn your Portland home into a cozy fall oasis?

It’s officially the start of the season and living in Portland means after September 21st, things really start to indeed feel like autumn. The leaves begin to change and the temperature drops which means it’s time for sweater weather and some fall decor.

Wondering how to turn your home into a pumpkin spice filled sanctuary for the next few months without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered!

Read on for 10 fall decor ideas you can try today.

1. Create a Safe Space

Not only is fall a season, but it’s also a feeling. For many, the season remains a nostalgic one even into adult-hood since it was the time of year you went back to school and started fresh.

You likely remember back to school shopping for all your new supplies and a few cute new wardrobe staples. You can implement the same feeling by making some subtle changes to your home.

Pick an area of your house, whether it be your bedroom, family room or home office and make it a cozy, relaxing and inviting space. Add more blankets, throw pillows or candles to create a seasonal feel.

Since we inevitably spend more time indoors once the season changes, it will be nice to create a personal sanctuary you’ll be excited to hang out in.

2. Make a Tablescape

You can easily create a tablescape you leave standing for the next few months. This way, you’ll have something seasonal to look at while eating dinner on a casual night in as well as something to show off to your guests if you invite people over.

There are a few ways to do this. One is to find a decorative bowl you love and fill it will gourds or pinecones or both. You can make an arrangement in a bowl that way it can be easily moved if you need more space on the table.

You can also fill a vase with rustic branches. The natural colors of the wood will immediately create a cozy and cool-weather atmosphere. These are great options because both of them require no maintenance and can be left for a while on your table without having to be switched out or thrown away.

3. Decorate Your Porch

What better way to welcome your guests or return home than with a decorative porch? You can add some rustic seating like a rocking chair or a bench and cover it with a blanket to spend time outside enjoying the fresh cool air.

You can also paint pumpkins or put larger gourds around the front door. An accessory like that isn’t only reserved for Halloween. If you have an indoor fireplace, keep a basket with chopped wood outside as a decorative element.

4. Bring in That Fall Aroma

One of the least expensive ways to get the feel of fall in your home is to make it smell like fall. We all have our favorite fall scents from cedarwood to pumpkin to cinnamon. Adding a hint of them will spice things up.

Purchase seasonal candles or you can even buy cinnamon sticks and leave them out in a small mason jar as a decorative item as well. If you don’t love candles, consider baking.

Baking your favorite fall treat will fill the air with the scents of autumn and make you feel as though you’ve transitioned your whole home.

5. Get Floral

Fall flowers can add some seasonal flair to your home with ease. Many farmer’s markets and even supermarkets will begin carrying flowers in burnt orange, yellow and red. So you don’t even have to go to the florist to find what you’re looking for.

Create a colorful centerpiece for your dining room table or buy two or three bouquets and mix and match. Make several smaller bouquets, and distribute them throughout the house so you have a little bit of fall in every room.

6. Add Plaid

This pattern is usually associated with the season. We think of plaid coats and even school uniforms. You can add plaid to your home with a simple throw blanket. If you want to take it further, consider plaid napkins, a tablecloth or runner.

You can also swap out your usual throw pillows with one or two plaid patterned ones to change up the look of your living room or bedroom.

7. Pumpkin, Pumpkin, Pumpkin!

Who doesn’t think of pumpkins when they think of fall? From the orange gourds themselves to a bread loaf or a latte made to reflect it’s flavor, pumpkins are truly a staple of the season.

You can add small pumpkins to your table centerpiece or even scatter them throughout your home for decoration. You don’t always have to carve them! Consider purchasing some flavored syrup or cream to make your favorite pumpkin spice coffee drink every morning and consider purchasing a pumpkin candle.

This scent and flavor are one of the best ways to get into the spirit.

8. Decorate the Door

If you don’t have a large porch to decorate, use your front door. This is a great place to put a seasonal wreath. Consider one made of twine or birch wood so that it lasts all season as opposed to something that will go bad like flowers or leaves.

You can also purchase a fake wreath that has colorful leaves on it and no one will know the difference. Just make sure to pack it away in a bag, or dust it off when you pull it off next season!

9. Recreate Your Color Pallete

Fall comes with its own color palette. If you aren’t into adding bold patterns or strong scents to your home, this could be a subtle and easy way to make some changes.

Think about replacing items like throw pillows, blankets and your bedspread with fall colored decor. You want to stick to rich neutrals like browns, dark greens, beige and white. Then you can add pops of color like burnt orange and a deep red.

10. Bring Nature Indoors

Like we mentioned earlier, you’ll be spending less time outdoors as the temperature cools so bringing the outdoors inside may be a good bet.

You can collect fall leaves and place them in a bowl or bring in firewood and store it inside. You can also bring in branches or pinecones and make your own centerpieces or displays in whichever area of the home you prefer.

Add Your Fall Decor Today!

The season will be over before we know it so make the most of this time by adding in your fall decor now. You can enjoy these little tweaks to your home for the next three months and feel excited to go home to your cozy autumn-filled abode.

Be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more tips!

The best style for fall outfits in the Pacific Northwest changes from city to city. Coming up with your own style is the way to go.

Although a popular naked bike ride brings 9,000 nude riders to Portland in the Pacific Northwest every year, you’ll need clothes for the rest of your time.

When buying fall outfits would you choose cowboy boots and bold prints or denim and chunky knits? The overall vibe for fall outfits in this area is comfy, casual yet cool.

So, where are the best places to shop when in the Pacific Northwest? There are hundreds of boutiques and thrift stores throughout the area.

In this article, we’ll look at a few places you can begin shopping to get your fall outfits down.

1. Vintage Shopping & Thrift Stores

One of the best ways to ensure you get a few pieces of clothing which are very unique is to head to thrift stores.

If you’re new to thrift store shopping, don’t be afraid. The process can take some time but you can come up with absolute treasure or just a few useful layers.

Root around, have fun and don’t forget that after you wash a few of the items you found, they’ll be as good as new.

Red Light Clothing Exchange

We’re starting off with a popular store thanks to its range of clothing and reasonable prices.

If you’re looking for warm jumpers of jackets for fall, Red Light Clothing Exchange is a great place to start. Your fall look could include just one decade’s trends or mix it up.

This store has everything from denim to leather, mohair to old band t-shirts. Better yet, by shopping vintage, you’re also doing your small bit to help save the planet.

Find this shop at 3590 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Gold Dogs

Although small inside, Gold Dogs in Seattle packs a punch and has many great options already for your new fall look.

For your Pacific Northwest look, you’ll need some cowboy boots and this is the perfect place to pick up a vintage pair to your liking.

If your preferred look is rodeo, rock and roll biker – this is your place. As with most vintage shops, you should have some dedication while searching.

But, if you know what you’re looking for and are feeling determined, you might strike gold!

Find this shop at 5221 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Savvy Plus

This shop is great for women who are sizes 12 and up and sick of high street stores which seemingly don’t offer anything above a size 6.

Unfortunately, it appears this shop is receiving bad reviews due to a change in ownership but may be worth checking out anyway.

It was known for having a beautiful collection of both old and new clothes. However, it is a little pricier than the other options.

Find this shop at 3204 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

2. Boutiques

If you’re struggling to find something which suits your style in a thrift or vintage store, head next to the boutiques.

As you’re paying a little more, you’ll be able to ask for help and won’t have to root through the hundreds of options.

Boutique Bleu

Based in Spokane, this little boutique sells classy and contemporary clothing, wallets and purses. You’ll also find cute shoes and hats.

If you’re hoping to find fall outfits which are chic and understated – this is the shop for you.

Once you’re all frocked up and feeling classy, check out the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. You’ll fit right in.

Find this shop at MH69+PM Spokane, Washington, USA

Twill Boutique

This store is known for having useful staff on hand who can help you out when you’re struggling.

They know how to dress every body type and can offer solutions for work, nights out or a first date.

Twill Boutique offers other benefits such as the fact that the clothes are “sustainably made” and the owner is kind and friendly.

However, keep in mind the prices will be higher here.

Find this shop at 3352 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Frock Boutique

Opposite the Tin Shed Garden Cafe, this shop is the perfect place to check out while waiting for a table.

Frock Boutique is a locally owned store boasting a large array of women’s clothing for every body shape and size.

They offer unique looks and an array of interesting choices from local Portland designers.

This shop may be a little small but it offers looks which are ideal for your Portland fall collection. Expect bright colors, unusual prints, and cheeky frocks

Find this shop at 1439 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA

3. Get the Accessories Down

After you’re happy with your ripped denim, chunky knit pulls and one-of-a-kind dresses, you’ll need to get a few new accessories to complete the look.

Queen Bee Creations

Who doesn’t love a handmade bag and better yet, one which doesn’t exploit animals for beauty?

At Queen Bee Creations, you’ll find high-quality vegan products which can handle being used every single day.

Needless to say, the designs are extremely functional but also very fun with quirky patterns and designs.

At this boutique, you’ll be able to find: satchels, diaper bags, clutches, small purses, summer bags, wallets and other fun smaller gifts.

Find this shop at 3961 N Williams Ave #101, Portland, OR 97227, USA

Satori

At this sleek boutique, you’ll find gorgeous items of clothing. But, my personal favorite aspect of this store is browsing the accessories.

You’ll find a huge range of items to dress up your outfit, but also your home. Hats, bags, and boots are all available for you to peruse and enjoy!

Find this shop at 1734 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA

Tanner Goods Flagship Store

This type of shop is one of my favorites in town. You’ll find a random collection of goods which will keep you perusing for a long while.

Here, you can find accessories such as wallets, belts, bags, glasses cases, hats and even a wide range of shoes.

However, you’ll also be able to find something for your pet, mugs, plant pots, records, and guitar straps.

Both this space and its location are very cool and worth checking out. It certainly knows its aesthetic and just what customers love.

Find this shop at 4719 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217, USA

4. Not Going Barefoot? Sort Out Your Footwear

Portland is a place which is known for its Earth-friendly, vegan eating, friendly hippies who love getting outdoors.

But, if you’re not quite at the stage of being able to go barefoot, here are a couple of places where you can find shoes which still fit in with the Portland sensibilities.

Pie Footwear

What’s more Portland than vegan footwear? The range at this shop will blow you away too. Choose from high length boots, boat shoes, trainer or sandals.

Although most of the shoes have a somewhat Portland vibe, you can pair them up with any outfit and be fall ready.

Find this shop at 2916 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA

re-souL

Along with the original name of this boutique, you’ll also find unique shoes. Everything from a modern style to a funky vibe is available.

Expect European designers to be showcased. Sandals, loafers, boots, and platforms are all available. Don’t expect to walk away empty-handed.

Find this shop at 5319 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Imelda’s and Louie’s

If you’re looking for a shop with great customer service, a huge range of options and also a few accessories to peruse, Imelda’s and Louie’s is your best bet.

Sandals, brogues, high boots, shorter boots, a huge range of colors and shapes make this a great place to find a shoe for your fall look.

Find this shop at 3426 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Fall Outfits Made Easy while Shopping in the Pacific Northwest

After you’ve been to all of the shops on this list, you may find that your bank account is suffering a little but your new fall collection will be ready to wear.

With a dress from Frock Boutique, a pair of shoes from Pie Footwear and a bag from Queen Bee Creations, you’ll be ready to hit the town with your new fall outfits.

Then, you’ll need to find some of the best restaurants and bars in Portland to visit. Check out our favorites.

Finding the best fall colors can make the shorter days colder whether more bearable. While there is some hardship with Autumn, almost a third of Americans say fall is their favorite season! Surprisingly, it also takes the crown as the most preferred season to tie-the-knot.

There are so many things to love about about fall. For starters, there’s the stunning foliage carpeting the grounds with yellows, oranges, and reds. Fun fact: much like the colors of a sunset, call colors are shown to slow a person’s time perception.

Then, there are the beautiful fall flowers.

You read that right. Spring and summer aren’t the only blooming seasons. Fall’s blossoms are as awe-inspiring as those you see during the warmer seasons.

All these and more, you can enjoy when in the Pacific Northwest.

The question is, where exactly can you find and marvel at the best fall colors?

Read this guide, and you’ll soon be on your way to one of them!

Kubota Garden, Seattle

Hills and valleys spanning 20 acres, the Kubota Garden in Seattle is a prime spot for Washington fall foliage. The beauty of this place stems from the combination of Japanese garden themes with flora of the Northwest.

Mind your jaw as you look at the beautiful water formations, including waterfalls, streams, and ponds. The huge collection of plant species here includes fall bloomers, such as Japanese maples.

University of Washington Arboretum, Seattle

Golds, oranges, and reds aren’t the only fall colors in Washington. Want some whites with your autumn foliage? Then head to the University of Washington Botanic Gardens.

Here, you’ll find the Franklin Tree’s flowers painting a stark white contrast against its gold and red leaves. The arboretum’s Dawn Redwoods also add pink to the foliage. Maples, flowering cherries, and dogwoods also line the 230-acre garden.

Seattle Japanese Garden, Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle

The Seattle Japanese Garden attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year.

So… What makes it so special you should include it in your list of Washington fall foliage viewing spots?

For starters, it’s amongst North America’s most highly-regarded gardens. Because of its Japanese influences, the garden gives you a sneak peek to the Land of the Rising Sun. There are waterfalls, forests, mountains, and rivers to curb your craving to be one with nature.

It’s also thanks to its Japanese roots, you’ll see astonishing fall foliage and flowers here. Plus, the varied ecosystem here means you’ll marvel at both flora and fauna.

Manito Park, Spokane

Boasting not one, not even three, but five showcase gardens, Manito Park affords some of the best scenes of fall in Spokane.

There’s the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, for starters. The garden, filled with maple trees and koi ponds, form a picture-perfect scene.

Before you leave to stock up on the local farms’ fresh produce, go for a stroll along the golden-leaf-covered Manito Boulevard.

Riverfront Park, Spokane

Spokane’s Riverfront Park isn’t only a great place to catch the incredible Washington fall colors. It also affords you incredible views of the magnificent Spokane Falls.

Considered one of the “most unforgettable urban falls” in the U.S., the Spokane Falls actually consist of two waterfalls. There’s the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. Together, they make up the largest urban waterfall in the country.

A great plus to the Riverfront Park is its location. Situated downtown, you’ll have no problems finding other activities to satisfy your outdoorsy side. The SkyRide Over the Falls, Tour Train, and 1909 Looff Carrousel are to name a few.

Pro Tip: Make sure you don a good pair of shoes before heading to the park. That way, you can take on the challenge that the Centennial trail and various walking paths offer.

The Finch Arboretum, Spokane

What do you get when you mix a massive collection of plant material with 65 acres of hills?

The John A. Finch Arboretum, that’s what! Of course, there’s also the astonishing fall foliage to see.

The Finch Arboretum’s flora collection lines the Garden Springs Creek shores, the various species of which grow all year long. Chosen for their compatibility with the city’s climate, the different plant materials bloom and flourish whatever season it is. That gives you more reason to visit not only during the fall season.

Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

Let’s face it. The best way to take in breathtaking views and landscapes is when they’re all natural.

Much thanks to Washington’s Mt. Rainier National Park, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

Almost untouched by human hands, the area surrounding the active volcano boasts ancient forests and houses various wildlife. With it being rich in flora, you can expect stunning leafage throughout the year, and not only during autumn.

During the fall season, make sure you make your way to Paradise and Reflection Lakes. These are some of the mountain’s best areas to see awesome golds, reds, oranges, and even greens. The Grove of the Patriarchs is also a must-visit.

As for wildflowers, Mt. Rainier’s collection is a sight to behold. But since they only bloom for a limited time, make sure you catch them before late fall.

Leavenworth Town, Washington

The fact that it has its own Autumn Leaf Festival should already tell you that Leavenworth Town is one of the best places to see stunning fall leaves in action. That and the town’s name itself, which is spelled almost like heaven.

Plus, it’s situated in none other than the Cascade Mountains. As such, know there’s plenty other things for you to do. Try trekking The Enchantments, conquering the Tumwater Canyon, or following the Apple Capital Loop Trail.

If you want something less laborious, find a good spot for fall foliage viewing at the Waterfront Park.

Fun Fact: Waterfront parks in general are amazing locations to observe the best fall colors. The expanse of foliage, combined with the visual break, and opportunity for reflected can provide for stunning views. Don’t forget to pick your jaw up before going home!

Fall in Love with Pacific Northwest’s Fall Flowers and Foliage

Many of the Pacific Northwest’s fall flowers provide an amazing contrast to the golden and scarlet foliage of autumn. From the Agastache Blue Fortune to the Purple Dome blossoms and the Aster x frikartii Monch to the Great Blue Lobelia, you’re in for a superb treat if you visit during the fall.

Last tip before we go: When searching for the best fall colors in the Northwest, Make sure to dress in layers. Fall, in particular, is a season when the temperature and precipitation can change from moment to moment. Oh, and don’t forget to check out our other travel posts!