Fall Decorating Begins on the Mantel – 24 Charming Finds to Give Your Hearth a Seasonal Refresh

From fresh garlands to autumn-inspired decor, these pieces will make your mantel come to life this fall

a decorative mantel with candles and decorative objects
(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd)

A mantel is so much more than a simple shelf above a fireplace. As a Style Editor, I like to think of it as a dedicated space for a room-defining vignette; a staging spot for your favorite mementos and decorative details. As we transition from summer to fall, the mantel becomes prime real estate for your favorite fall decor, too – signaling the season with stylish flair.

The best mantel decor ideas always begin with seasonal garland, and this fall, I have my eyes on lush strands like Terrain's Faux Autumn Cedar Garland and Crate & Barrel's Faux Chili Berry Garland. Decorative strands like these lay the groundwork for the stylish touches to come. Joanna Gaines' Magnolia is stocked with festive finds for fall that can make your mantel come to life, including the Leaf Trinket Dish and the floral Forged Candle Holder. Even Michaels has stylish mantel decor this season, with my favorite pieces being the antique-inspired Wooden Duck and the Etched Glass Cloche.

With thoughtful arrangement and intentional layering, your fall mantel decor can tastefully enhance the family photos, personal trinkets, and other fixed features that exist year-round. Plus, it'll make your room feel more like fall in an instant.


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Devin Toolen
Style Editor

Devin Toolen is a New York-based Style Editor for Homes & Gardens. After achieving her Bachelor’s Degree at Villanova University, Devin moved to Paris, France, to obtain her Master’s Degree at Parsons School of Design. Upon returning to the United States, Devin began working in the media industry with Cosmopolitan Magazine, where she wrote trend-driven fashion stories and assisted on set for many photoshoots, and later Livingetc, where she wrote interior design stories and assisted with the magazine’s social media pages. She has an appreciation for every aspect of personal style – from the clothes we wear to the design of our homes. In her spare time, Devin enjoys embroidery and antique shopping in the city.