There’s something quietly magical about the tail-end of summer.
The light softens. Mornings feel a touch cooler. And somewhere between the final BBQ and the first cup of tea sipped under a blanket, you begin to crave a little more cosy.
Late August is the perfect time to give your home a subtle seasonal refresh — nothing dramatic, just a gentle layering in of warmth, texture and intention. Think of it as the “soft launch” into autumn.
Here’s how to style your space for this golden in-between — where summer’s glow meets the comfort of what’s to come.
1. Let the Light Linger (but Soften It)
We’re not ready to shut out the sun just yet — but now’s the time to swap bright whites for warmer neutrals. If your space is still dressed in crisp linens and breezy textures, start layering in tones like oatmeal, honey, stone and soft clay.
Try:
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Replacing summer cushions with chunkier, textured covers
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Draping a light knit throw across your sofa or reading chair
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Switching candles from citrus to warmer, richer scents (more on that soon!)
This isn’t about rushing into autumn — it’s about inviting it to arrive gently.
2. Shift Your Scents
Scent has the power to anchor you in the season — and late August calls for a soft transition. Think herbal, grounding, gently spiced.
We love:
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Lavender and sage for a clean, calming atmosphere
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Amber, sandalwood or tonka bean for a warm, lingering base
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Fig or pear for something fruity, but a little more autumnal
Swap summery diffusers for richer, earthy notes. Or light a hand-poured candle in the evening and let it set the mood.
3. Style with What’s Seasonal (But Not Yet Pumpkins)
We adore a fabric pumpkin here at Benny and Mollie — but let’s hold off just a touch longer. For now, bring in dried florals, golden grasses, and muted greens.
Display ideas:
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A ceramic jug filled with dried wheat or bunny tails
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A low tray with a reed diffuser, a book stack and a small dish
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Seasonal stems in deep plum, mustard or burnt orange to hint at autumn without going full harvest
Keep your florals natural and wild, as if they’ve just been gathered from a Cumbrian hedgerow.
4. Refresh Your Shelves with Warmer Tones
Bookshelves, console tables and open shelves are perfect places to make mini seasonal updates. In August, we love to layer in richness through colour and material.
Try adding:
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Wooden or ceramic accents in place of glass and metal
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Neutral-toned vases or bowls with a handmade feel
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A new quote print that matches the slower rhythm of the season (something about stillness, or the comfort of home)
Remember: this doesn’t need to be a full re-style. Swap a few pieces. Add a little warmth. That’s all it takes.
5. Light It Like a Late Sunset
August evenings are still light, but they’ve lost that long golden stretch. Embrace the shift by playing with your lighting.
We recommend:
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A small ambient lamp in your entryway or hallway
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Tea lights in pumpkin-shaped or stone holders for softness
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A string of warm fairy lights across your shelf or headboard
The goal? A space that feels gently glowing, not harsh or overly autumnal, just inviting.
A Final Thought: Don’t Rush It
One of the loveliest things about seasonal living is that it encourages slowness. You don’t need to dive headfirst into full autumn styling. Instead, let your home evolve naturally.
Layer. Tweak. Light a candle in the evening and take note of how your space feels. That’s the essence of this time of year — listening, noticing, and slowly turning towards comfort.
Need a few pieces to help your home ease into the season?
Explore our collection of softly-scented candles, handmade ceramics, and seasonally inspired décor — made to bring that late-summer calm and early-autumn charm into your home.