Halloween Decor Goes Upscale with Spooky Chic Trend
by Daniel Foster
Halloween decor has evolved. As consumers potentially spend a record $13.1 billion on Halloween this year, aesthetic preferences have shifted from plastic pumpkins and yard inflatables to something more refined. Consider layered pumpkins in various colors, ambient lighting and organic materials.
Homeowners are moving away from cartoonish ghouls toward what experts call “spooky-chic,” which blends the holiday’s eerie spirit with sophisticated design elements. Animatronic brain-eating zombies haven’t been entirely banished, but chances are, you’ll see something tasteful like arranged fall foliage mixed with such subtle gothic touches as black feathers and aged books.
DIY Decor From Your Own Backyard
“The twisted, gnarled branches of a downed tree, combined with a well-placed colored light, make an effect more impressive than any dollar store cobwebs,” says brand expert Evelyn Martin. “I collected twigs from the garden to build a Blair Witch Project theme using a little hot glue. “I had a six-foot floating terrifying symbol that cost zero dollars. It looks more unique and impressive than a $300 inflatable prop.”
Martin collects a tall weed that grows along the side of the roadway where she lives in Vancouver. “I call it ‘Halloweed,’” she says. “ It dries out to a dark burgundy-black color, and looks equally elegant as it looks spooky when styled in a vase.”
