This fall, I'm ditching the tablecloths – Magnolia's table styling look proves that bare tables and simple runners are the next big thing

Fall gatherings are some of my favorite moments of the season, and for me, the table always sets the tone. When it comes to fall table decor ideas, I’m always tempted to go all in with layered linens and a maximalist look. Lately, though, I’ve been drawn to a more pared-back style – and Magnolia’s fall table setting collection has become my biggest source of inspiration.

In a recent Instagram post, Magnolia showcased a warm wooden table styled with nothing more than a tartan runner and simple crockery. The understated setup made the table itself the centerpiece, and it got me thinking about how less can truly be more.

Since my favorite fall decor ideas always include natural textures, I’ll be skipping the tablecloth this season and embracing Magnolia’s minimalist-inspired approach for my fall gatherings.

'When you have a beautiful wooden table, why hide it with a tablecloth?' says Hebe Hatton, our Head of Interiors. 'It's the perfect backdrop for fall tablescaping: warm, textured, and just waiting to be styled.'

It might seem radical to anyone who's particularly attached to crisp table linens and elaborate dining table styling, but the Magnolia fall table styling look is all about keeping things simple. 'I don't think there's anything wrong with having your plates sit directly on the table,' says Hebe. 'But if you want to elevate the look for an occasion, use charger plates or large place mats which peep out under your plates.'

If I were to design my dream fall tablescape, it would all start with Magnolia's Carlotta dining table: I adore the rich mahogany veneer, and the delicate trestle legs make it perfect for a modern rustic kitchen. A table this gorgeous deserves to be seen in all its glory – especially during intimate fall gatherings – so the table decor is crucial.

I'm a huge fan of a runner like the Maisley floral grid runner; this is the hero piece in Magnolia's video, and the deep maroon hues immediately caught my eye. Paired with some matching napkins and simple cream plates, it instantly creates an elegant tablescape.

I love that the Magnolia fall table styling look doesn't require any extra bells and whistles, like extravagant centerpieces or flower garlands. (Although I will be adding a few of Joanna Gaines' kitchen and tableware pieces from the Magnolia fall collection 2025.)

Yet the beauty of the Magnolia table styling look is that it's completely customizable – and while the wood is the focus, there are plenty of opportunities for layering.

'My favorite long table setting idea is to use runners across a table instead of along it,' says Hebe. 'I love hanging them over a corner for a laid-back look, and then adding in lots of texture, color and pattern using crockery, napkins and glassware.'

Shop the Magnolia fall table styling look

Ready to embrace the harvest season? Check out our guide on how to decorate every room for fall, and don't forget to keep an eye on outdated fall decor trends, too.