Fall Mantel Styling: 5 Simple and Cozy Ideas

If you're looking for a little fall styling inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I'm excited to share some of my favorite ways to style a fall mantel using items you probably already have at home.


Whether you're into modern minimalism, vintage elegance, or maybe something a bit more dramatic, I’ve got some simple, budget-friendly ideas to help bring those cozy autumn vibes into your space.


So, grab your favorite fall drink, get comfy, and let’s get started!

We’re going to work on a few different looks today. We’ll start with a super simple, clean, and easy style, and gradually move to something a bit more dramatic. Ready to have some fun? Let’s go!

Look 1: Modern Minimalist

For this first look, I pulled a few items from around the house that I think everyone might have—books, a floral piece, and taper candles. Taper candle holders are a must! If you don’t have these, they’re a classic investment. I have them in black and brass, which I’ll be using here.

For this look, the painting above the mantel is the centerpiece, so I’ll use brass tapers to complement it. On the other side, to even things out, I’ve stacked a couple of coffee table books. They’re a fantastic way to decorate and add interest to the mantel. For a more subtle fall vibe, you don’t need a bunch of pumpkins—just focus on layering textures.


Next, we’ll add a floral piece. Since the tall candles are on one side, I’ve placed something shorter on the other to vary the height. Now, let’s add some greenery. I love using plain greenery garland—it’s versatile enough to use all year round! You can dress it up or leave it plain, but a little greenery adds interest and balance to the overall look.


Lastly, I added a white pumpkin for a pop of color. And that’s it—modern minimalist fall mantel complete! I’ll light the candles and show you the finished look before moving on to the next style.

Look 2: Vintage Elegance

For the second look, we’re going for something with more presence—something a little fuller. I’m starting with some eucalyptus garland that I got a while back. It wasn’t exactly what I expected when I ordered it, but we’re making it work!

I’ve also swapped the books for darker, more fall-like colors, and started layering the eucalyptus garland. To add variety, I’m mixing in different types of greenery—one even has little speckles that bring in extra color.


To finish, I’ve added a few pumpkins and some pretty candlelight. The result is charming and romantic, perfect for a vintage elegance theme. This would also look amazing with some extra lights or different florals, depending on your style.

Look 3: Cozy and Personal

Now, let’s try something even more personal and cozy. I’ve kept the eucalyptus garland from the previous look because I love how it softens the space. For this style, I’m focusing on items that remind me of fall. You can do the same—whether that’s pumpkins, a collection of family photos, or antlers like I have here.

Of course, I’m bringing the candles back, because nothing beats the warmth and coziness they create. I’m also incorporating a few miniature hydrangea picks with ivy-like leaves for added texture and variation. The result is a cozy, inviting mantel perfect for creating those autumnal vibes.

Look 4: Dramatic Entryway Vibes

Okay, this look is a bit out of my comfort zone, but we’re going to have some fun with it! I wouldn’t normally put this twiggy tree on a mantel—it’s better suited for an entryway table or a dining room buffet—but we’re going for something dramatic here.


I ordered this white twiggy tree last year, and though they come in black and brown now, we’re working with what we have!

I’m thinking of adding some orange pumpkin stems to give it more of a 3D effect, and of course, bringing back some greenery at the bottom. This would make an amazing entryway display, especially for the holidays. Imagine this setup at Christmas with lights and ribbons!

Look 5: Practical Elegance

For the final look, I wanted to create something practical yet beautiful. Instead of removing the artwork above my mantel, I’m adding a focal point in the middle to frame it. Whether it’s a large piece of art, a wreath, or garland, framing your centerpiece helps give your mantel a cohesive, polished look.

I’m using a gorgeous vase with festive stems to add color on one side, and of course, taper candles to complete the frame. This look is elegant and practical, perfect for those who like to keep things simple yet stylish.

Final Thoughts

That’s it for today! I hope you got at least one new idea for your fall mantel. I had so much fun putting these looks together and hope you enjoyed it too. I’d also love for you to vote on your favorite look in the comments.

Thanks for joining me, and I’ll see you back here next time. Until then, love and peace!

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