With the chill of winter well and truly here, many Australians are looking for simple ways to refresh their interiors without embarking on a full renovation. Justine Wilson, founder and principal stylist at Vault Interiors, says winter is the perfect time to embrace rich textures, deeper tones, and inviting comforts, all without breaking the bank.
Justine’s top 10 winter styling swaps that are bang on trend and easy on the wallet:
Swap linen for velvet or bouclé cushions: Textural cushions are one of the easiest ways to update a room for winter. Swap your light linens for rich velvets or tactile bouclé in earthy hues like rust, forest green, or chocolate.
Find them at: Kmart, Big W, Adairs.
Add mood lighting with table and floor lamps: Cool winter evenings are made for ambient lighting. Swap out your overhead lights for floor or table lamps with warm-toned bulbs to create a soft glow.
Find them at: Bunnings, Freedom, IKEA.
Embrace darker décor accents: Incorporate deeper colours such as navy, burgundy, and charcoal through vases, candles, and decorative objects to ground your space in the cooler months.
Find them at: H&M Home, Kmart, Pillow Talk.
Add a statement rug: Anchor your rooms and add insulation with a large, plush rug. Look for patterns in tribal or vintage styles to add character and warmth.
Find them at: Spotlight, Fantastic Furniture, Temple & Webster.
Don’t overlook greenery: Make your interiors feel alive even in the grey of winter by introducing greenery. There are amazing realistic faux plants available at Bunnings and most homeware stores. Or, forage from your own garden or neighbours with permission, green foliage or beautiful bare branches in a large vase bring the outdoors in, with a seasonal twist.
Find them at: Bunnings, Freedom, local florists or outdoors.
Upgrade your bedding with flannelette or jersey sheets: Swap out crisp cotton for soft flannelette or jersey sheets to stay toasty through chilly nights. Add a quilted coverlet for extra layering.
Find them at: Sheridan Outlet, Kmart, Harris Scarfe.
Use scent to set the mood: Add winter-friendly scents like sandalwood, cedar, vanilla, or spiced cinnamon through diffusers or candles. They’ll add a layer of comfort and sensory appeal.
Find them at: Dusk, Peppermint Grove, The Body Shop.
Mix in antique or vintage pieces: Add soul and interest to your home by mixing in vintage décor items. Think old brass candlesticks, antique mirrors or timber trays. Find them at: Vinnies, Salvos, Facebook Marketplace.
“Winter doesn’t have to feel dull or dreary,” says Justine. “It’s the perfect opportunity to play with layering, texture and mood, and with so many affordable retailers, everyone can achieve a stylish, seasonal home they love.”
