HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ STYLED BY: HOLLY SMITH
The crispness of autumn is now a steadfast presence, though the warmth of sweater weather has yet to envelop the southern skies. Yet, there’s a sense of change that beckons us to transform our living spaces from the light, summery charm to a cozy, patterned, and nostalgic vibe. The latest autumnal trend, vintage prep, is all about welcoming a touch of the classic—plaid, brass, cherished finds, vintage linens, and botanical prints. It’s time to bid farewell to pastels and embrace this autumnal shift with a timeless elegance.
“Vintage prep is steering interior design back to its roots,” observes Georgia-based designer Esther Ellard. The aim is to create a layered and grounded atmosphere, utilizing hues such as soft rose, sage, and light cornflower, which beautifully complement cherished silhouettes. Intrigued about how to infuse this trend? Look no further.
“We’ve been seeing plaid, brass, and botanicals making their mark in cottagecore and transitional spaces for some time,” Ellard explains. “But vintage prep injects a fresh twist with items like rich tartan throws, cranberry and ochre pillows, and candlesticks adorned with slender candles.
For Charleston-based designer Cortney Bishop, vintage prep is a response to the yearning for comfort and character. “After the reign of minimalism, there’s a pleasure in surrounding ourselves with pieces that carry a story—patina, a hint of imperfection, or a cherished memory,” she comments. It’s less about seeking the new and more about the familiar, the soulful, and the curated.
“The South is reclaiming its heritage with a relaxed ease,” notes Dallas designer Phillip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James. “This fall’s mood is gentle…it’s prep without pretense, a blend of scholarly charm and romantic allure.”
When it comes to design transformations, the secret is to start with small changes. Swap in vintage fabrics, plaid pillows, monogrammed linens, or botanical tea towels—these subtle touches can make a home feel curated and intimate.
“Layering is the cornerstone,” says North Carolina designer Michelle Murphy of Demi Ryan. “A vintage rug beneath your feet, botanical art on the walls, and a collection of beloved books on a side table can make a space feel lived-in and genuine.”
“The most accessible way to dive into vintage prep is through layering accents,” suggests Liz Livingston of Page House Studio. “A botanical pillow paired with a sculptural stool or pedestal introduces a serene freshness that complements richer seasonal tones. It’s a gentle reminder that pastels are not just for spring. They can grace a room through the autumn and beyond.”
Florida designer Joe Human adds, “For the average homeowner looking to integrate this style, it can begin anywhere. Don’t shy away from mixing a midcentury coffee table with a leather rolled-arm sofa and vintage books. Balance the wood tones and textures with various layers of fabric types and patterns. If you’re starting with a living room, consider a plush throw that can transition with the seasons.”
“Creating your own vintage prep is as simple as layering antiques with new pieces, blending plaids and florals, soft pastels, and warm wood finishes that instantly evoke a sense of timelessness and personal touch,” notes Elizabeth Jent, senior director of merchandising at Ashley.
To truly encapsulate the essence of autumn, Murphy advises filling “vintage containers with seasonal foliage, such as brass urns with magnolia branches or simple glass vases with dried hydrangeas.”
Tablescapes are also an ideal canvas for vintage prep. “Imagine patterned china with linen napkins, silver flatware, or mismatched candlesticks for an elegant yet approachable look,” she continues.
Gina Proctor, owner of Tallahassee’s Bedfellows, believes that botanical prints in autumnal hues—“soft mossy greens, warm golds, and cranberry plaids layered across throws, blankets, and pillows”—are essential. Pair these with heirloom silver or a few well-worn leather-bound books on a coffee table, and you’ve instantly crafted a space that embodies this trend.
Designer Gray Benko concludes, “The finest homes do not just look appealing; they tell a story the moment you step through the door. We can vouch that a sprinkle of plaid never goes astray. Together, we embrace vintage prep because it’s vibrant, layered, and makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a picturesque English abode. Who wouldn’t desire that?”
Robert Peterson; Styling: Francis Bailey
Introducing a few foundational pieces can completely alter the ambiance of a room. “Rugs are my go-to anchor. They stabilize the space and establish the mood,” comments Bishop. She is drawn to vintage or handwoven pieces with organic patterns and earthy color palettes.
For Atlanta designer Jessica Davis, sourcing authentic vintage pieces is crucial for the environmentally conscious homeowner. “Vintage cotton quilts are a fantastic find at thrift stores and antique malls, and once washed, they make the perfect layering piece—they’re microplastic-free, natural, and durable,” she adds.
