HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ STYLED BY: HOLLY SMITH
The crispness of autumn has officially descended upon us. Even though sweater weather hasn’t quite graced our Southern skies, it’s the perfect time to transition your home from summery lightness to cozy, patterned warmth and nostalgic charm. The latest autumnal trend, vintage prep, is all about wrapping yourself in the comforting embrace of classic elements—plaid, brass, treasured finds, vintage linens, and botanical motifs. Bid farewell to pastel hues and welcome this season’s aesthetic with a touch of timeless elegance.
“Vintage prep is steering interior design back to its timeless roots,” observes Georgia-based designer Esther Ellard. Aim for a layered, grounded look with colors like faded rose, sage, and soft cornflower, which add a touch of sophistication to cherished silhouettes. Curious about how to infuse this trend into your space? Keep reading to find out.
“We’ve seen plaid, brass, and botanicals popping up in cottagecore and transitional spaces for some time now,” Ellard shares. However, vintage prep breathes new life into these elements with luxurious tartan throws, cranberry and ochre pillows, and candlesticks adorned with slender wicks.
Charleston designer Cortney Bishop attributes the appeal of vintage prep to the resurgence of comfort and character in our living spaces. “After a period of minimalism, there’s a renewed appreciation for pieces that tell a story—patina, a hint of imperfection, or a cherished memory,” she explains. This movement is less about seeking the new and more about embracing the familiar, the soulful, and the curated.
Dallas-based designer Phillip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James describes vintage prep as the South’s effortless way of reclaiming its heritage. “This autumn’s mood is more subdued…it’s prep without pretense, scholarly yet romantic,” he remarks.
Just like any design transformation, it’s best to start with small changes. Introduce vintage textiles, plaid cushions, monogrammed linens, or botanical tea towels—subtle additions that lend a personal touch to your home.
“Layering is crucial,” says North Carolina designer Michelle Murphy of Demi Ryan. “A vintage rug on the floor, botanical art on the walls, and a collection of cherished books on a side table create a space that feels lived-in and genuine.”
Liz Livingston of Page House Studio suggests that layering accents is the most accessible way to adopt vintage prep. “A botanical pillow paired with a sculptural stool or pedestal introduces a serene freshness that complements richer seasonal tones. It serves as a gentle reminder that pastels are not exclusively for spring. They can gracefully carry a room through the fall and beyond.”
Florida designer Joe Human advises homeowners looking to incorporate vintage prep: “Don’t be afraid to blend midcentury modern pieces with leather sofas and vintage books. Balance wood tones and textures with various fabric types and patterns. If you’re beginning with a living room, consider a cozy throw that can evolve with the seasons.”
Elizabeth Jent, senior director of merchandising at Ashley, emphasizes that creating your own vintage prep style is as simple as layering family heirlooms with new pieces, mixing plaid and florals, soft pastels, and warm wood finishes that evoke both timelessness and personal style.
Michelle Murphy recommends filling “vintage containers with seasonal blooms, like brass urns with magnolia branches or simple glass vases with dried hydrangeas” to truly capture the essence of the season.
Tablescapes are another ideal area to weave in vintage prep. “Picture patterned china with linen napkins, silverware, or mismatched candlesticks for an elegant yet inviting look,” she adds.
Gina Proctor, owner of Tallahassee’s Bedfellows, insists that botanical prints in autumnal hues such as “soft mossy greens, warm golds, and cranberry plaids” layered across throws, blankets, and pillows are essential. Pair these with antique silver or a few well-worn leather-bound books on a coffee table to instantly establish a space that embodies this trend.
Designer Gray Benko concludes, “The finest homes are not just visually appealing; they tell a story from the moment you step through the door. We can confidently say that a dash of plaid can never go wrong. We embrace vintage prep because it’s vibrant, layered, and makes you feel like you’re in a picturesque English home. Who wouldn’t desire that?”
Robert Peterson; Styling: Francis Bailey
Introducing a few foundational pieces can completely transform the ambiance of a room. “Rugs are my go-to for grounding a space and setting the tone,” notes Bishop. She is drawn to vintage or hand-loomed rugs featuring organic patterns and earthy palettes.
Atlanta designer Jessica Davis advocates for sourcing authentic vintage pieces for environmentally conscious homeowners. “Vintage cotton quilts are a fantastic find at thrift stores and antique malls, and once laundered, they make the perfect layering piece—free from microplastics, natural, and durable,” she adds.
