10 Fresh Fall Mantels

A mantel…is not the place for something so small and exquisite that it must be held in the hand to be appreciated. Two big vases…will give a more decorative effect - Dorothy Draper

Yep, it's that time of year again. Time to bust out the leaves and the pumpkins, the gourds and the candles and get to decorating your fall mantel. The pictures have been popping up like crazy on blogs, link parties, and Pinterest, and I've been busy gathering inspiration. Here are a few of my favorites that have gotten it just right:

 

This mantel by Centsational Girl has been one of my favorites since I spied it last year on the interwebs.  The oranges and greens really pop and make a statement against that clean, crisp background. Simple yet sensational.

I love the textures and natural elements of the Nester's fall mantel as well. Another good example of bringing the outdoors in.

This image from House Beautiful has been in my inspiration folder for some time now. The inky blue background really brings out the oranges and yellows in the space. I also love that the mantel is balanced but not perfectly symmetrical.

The leaves really make a statement on this fireplace. Paired with gourds and artwork in fall colors, nothing could say autumn more. (via Saidos da Concha on Flickr - photo by Tiago Cabral)

I'm not sure that this mantel by Martha of Nibs was intended as a fall display, but I love the earthy colors and layered look. A fall mantel doesn't have to be completely literal as long as the color scheme is in the right place.

While the mirror is clearly the statement piece here, the riot of fall foliage and produce below provide color and visual interest. (via Kelly of View Along the Way)

This mantel from Good Housekeeping leans more toward the country/traditional side of decorating with its plaid fabrics, but is subtle enough to work with any decor.

You can always count of Danielle Thomson of Thompson Family Life to think outside of the box. Covering her fireplace box with fabric/wrapping paper in a bright orange print is a bold move against her turquoise walls, but it totally works.

This one is geared toward Halloween, but I love the simplicity and the non-traditional green that was used. Just goes to show that you don't necessarily have to go with orange. (by Jen Johnson of hi. via eighteen25)

Another great example of using a non-traditional color scheme. There is so much more to fall than just orange and red. You can still get a fall feel even if those colors don't work with your decor. (via melissann on Flickr)

I know I'm a little late here as we're already in October, but yesterday was the first day that really felt like Autumn, and I just can't get into Fall decorating if the feeling isn't there. So stay tuned!