This autumn, a new décor trend has swept social media feeds. It embodies cosy nostalgia, rustic warmth, and a hint of magic. Known as the “Strega Nona Fall” aesthetic, this look feels like a heartwarming visit to your grandmother’s kitchen mixed with the enchanting vibes of an old-world Italian village.
Named after the beloved children’s book character, Strega Nona – a wise grandmotherly figure with a touch of witchcraft, this aesthetic brings together homey elements, vintage touches, and a hint of mysticism.
Warm, Earthy Colour Palette
The Strega Nona Fall aesthetic starts with a colour palette rooted in nature. Think of the hues found in an Italian countryside during the autumn, warm browns, deep reds, olive greens, and soft creams. These shades create a grounded and comforting atmosphere, perfect for colder months. Try incorporating terracotta tones, mustard yellows, and rusty oranges through wall colours, rugs, and throws. Avoid overly bright or artificial colour; instead, using muted, earthy tones to bring a sense of warmth and homeliness.
Think about dark brown flooring complemented by wood furniture to bring out rich, natural tones. Accent walls or wallpaper in earthy shades or subtle vintage patterns along with layers of soft linens, woollen blankets, and velvet cushions in autumnal hues for depth.
Vintage Finds and Handcrafted Details
A defining characteristic of Strega Nona Fall is the mix of antique and handcrafted items. This style borrows from the charm of well-loved heirlooms, so it’s time to pull out any family treasures or vintage market finds. Think old-fashioned pots, worn copper cookware, vintage plates, and mismatched cutlery that would look perfectly at home in a cosy Italian kitchen. These items don’t have to be pristine either. In fact, a little wear and tear only adds to the charm!
Hit up local charity stores or antique shops for unique items like old spice jars, ladles, and candlesticks. Display these pieces on open shelves to make them feel cherished keepsakes. Mix in pottery or hand-painted ceramics for a rustic, artisanal touch.
Herbaceous Touches and Foraged Decor
A huge part of this aesthetic is an affinity for herbs; both dried and fresh. This harkens back to a time when every kitchen had a stash of fresh herbs, dried flowers, and foraged finds to use for cooking or healing. Create small herb bouquets of rosemary, safe, or thyme and hang them to dry in the kitchen or arrange them in clay pots on your windowsill. You can also add elements like dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and small pinecones to bring an earthy fragrance to your home.
You can use wooden or ceramic bowls to display fresh seasonal produce like pumpkins and apples. If you enjoy arts and crafts, consider creating an autumn wreath with foraged items like dried flowers, grasses, and twigs.
Magic-Inspired Accessories
To capture the “Strega” (Italian for “witch”) side of Strega Nona, add a few whimsical, magical touches. This aesthetic invites a hint of mystery without veering into Halloween territory. Try adding candles in vintage holders, glass apothecary jars filled with spices, or even an old-fashioned mortar and pestle. Additions like these give a nod to old-world magic, with a subtle sense of enchantment that makes your home feel like it’s hiding a few secrets.
Think about placing candles in brass or antique candleholders to create a warm, flickering glow. Use glass jars to store dried herbs or spices; evoking an apothecary feel. Complete the look with a well-placed vintage book, ideally one on herbs or magic!
Rusticity Through Wood
Rustic wooden accents add a feeling of age and authenticity that’s perfect for the aesthetic. Whether it’s through antique cabinets, natural oak floors, or a reclaimed farmhouse table, incorporating wood brings warmth and a sense of history. Look for pieces with visible grain or weathered surfaces that feel slightly worn but well-loved.
If you don’t have old wooden furniture, try incorporating cutting boards, stools, or trays made of wood. Display wooden spoons or lades in a jar on your counter. All of these can be both decorative and functional.
Embrace a Slow Living Philosophy
At its core, the Strega Nona aesthetic isn’t just about the décor. It’s about an attitude towards life. This look embraces the concept of slow living. It encourages us to savour simple pleasures, take time to cook homemade meals, and enjoy a slower, more mindful pace.
You can incorporate this mindset by creating cosy nooks where you can relax with a cup of tea, knitting supplies, or a good book. The goal is to design a space that invites relaxation, where you can focus on enjoying the little things in life.
