7 Unexpected Fall Colors Designers Recommend Trying

While yellows, oranges, and browns are synonymous with fall, designers suggest stepping outside the traditional palette. These seven unexpected hues provide a fresh way to embrace the season while adding depth and personality to your home.

1. Smoky Topaz

Warm and versatile.
This earthy tone channels ’70s vibes and creates a cozy atmosphere. Smoky Topaz is a perfect balance of neutrality and color, offering softness alongside bold materials like marble. Its versatility makes it ideal for any room, from kitchens to living spaces.

Designer Tip: Pair with bolder colors or high-contrast materials for a chic, balanced look.

2. Olive

Rich and adaptable.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams offers a dynamic green that can feel either dramatic or fresh, depending on the lighting and context. It’s perfect for kitchen cabinetry, where it pairs beautifully with white oak, brass, and warm tones.

Designer Tip: For a bold statement, paint walls, trim, and ceilings in olive for an elevated, cohesive appearance.

3. Jewel Tones Mixed With Wood

Sophisticated and seasonal.
Emerald greens, deep reds, and warm woods create a timeless color story that resonates with fall’s richness. Jewel tones add vibrancy and warmth while complementing wooden textures.

Designer Tip: Use jewel tones for accent pieces like chairs or create statement walls with custom textured finishes.

4. Contrasting Colors

Unexpected and vibrant.
Pair bold, contrasting hues like bright green and neon orange to mimic nature’s striking fall palette. These complementary colors add energy and excitement to your space while making each color stand out.

Designer Tip: Use contrasting colors in smaller doses, like accent furniture or shelves, to make a dramatic but balanced statement.

5. Terracotta Pink

Earthy and cozy.
This evolution of Millennial Pink exudes warmth and optimism, making it perfect for fall. Terracotta Pink pairs beautifully with pumpkin, cream, or cognac tones, creating a cocoon-like environment.

Designer Tip: Use this hue in bedrooms or living spaces to create a cuddly and inviting atmosphere.

6. Blue

Classic yet fresh.
Blue acts as an evergreen neutral, transitioning effortlessly into fall when paired with jewel tones, browns, or matte finishes. It adds depth and sophistication to spaces like dining rooms and living areas.

Designer Tip: Opt for darker blues with jewel-tone accents for a cozy, moody fall vibe.

7. Green

Natural and grounding.
Bright greens reflect a connection to the outdoors, celebrating nature’s influence on fall decor. From wallpaper to accessories, green is versatile and adds a refreshing contrast to traditional fall elements.

Designer Tip: Use green as a backdrop or incorporate natural elements like green pumpkins and foliage for a pop of color.

Conclusion
These unexpected fall colors offer creative ways to refresh your home while staying in tune with the season. Whether you prefer subtle sophistication or bold vibrancy, these designer-recommended hues can set the perfect autumnal tone.