The imminent arrival of crunchy leaves, scented candles, chunky knit sweaters, and hot spiced cider can only mean one thing: spooky season is almost upon us. It’s time to light a fire, bust out the scary movies, and relish in all things Halloween. If you’re someone who loves the season but, like me, finds a lot of the usual Halloween fare to be a bit juvenile for their taste, then this post is for you. We’re keeping things chic with elegant Halloween décor ideas to help us spice it up this season—the grown-up way.
I’m all about keeping the plastic at bay and using moody, dark accessories to add a bit of eeriness to my space without making it feel like my home is wearing a cheap costume. Luckily, thanks to Pinterest, there is a ton of incredible ghostly inspo to go around and help us set a spine-chilling scene that fits within a more adult aesthetic.
Whether you prefer to go the all-white Victorian ghost route or want to revel in a more dark and witchy scene, these Halloween décor ideas will elevate your home’s otherwordly vibe.
I suggest combining a few kitschy elements with more subtle and sophisticated nods to the holiday.
Less is more, you know? You’ll also be able to reuse these ideas year after year since they’re more grounded and subtle than the usual knick-knacks. And who knows, you may even incorporate some of them into your home post-holiday.
Read on for 13 elegant Halloween décor ideas to help you set a sinister tone, the grown-up way:
Keep your porch classy with a simple bat-laden branch wreath and a few artfully placed pumpkins and sticks. It sets a spooky tone without being over the top.
If dark hues aren’t your thing, then try combining white and brass pieces. It’s a more ethereal look. The pile ‘o bones don’t seem cartoony thanks to the overall elevated vibe.
How chic is this setting? The proliferation of candlesticks and a vintage cloche gives the scene a haunted Victorian mansion setting without veering into granny territory.
Keep things easy with a black table cloth, dark candlesticks, and moody, but simple, flower arrangements. It sets a perfectly spooky tone without the inclusion of overt Halloween references.
Sneaky little accessories like the eyeball and crystal ball add a touch of whimsy to this tablescape. Combined with brass accent pieces and dark candles, it almost gives the sense of being in a haunted castle.
Dried roses and dark branches lend some moody romance to the scene without feeling overwrought. And it never hurts to add a bit of dry ice to the cocktails for extra ambiance.
Skeleton-grasped glassware—doesn’t get much spookier than that! I love that it’s a chic nod to the holiday set on an otherwise simple table setting. Once you have the glasses, everything else is fairly easy to replicate.
If you’re not looking to spend a lot but want to add some holiday vibes, check out this easy and affordable DIY upgrade. Gold and black painted pumpkins and skulls add ambiance sans tackiness.
Bring some drama to your mantle with the addition of a spiderweb and decorative crows. It makes a statement without being over the top or feeling too childlike.
I can’t get enough of these crows! Add one to your table and scatter seasonal touches like pomegranates and small pumpkins along an otherwise dark and romantic stage.
This twig wreath is the perfect Halloween accessory for your front door. The bares stems lend themselves to just the right amount of autumnal eeriness, whether you add bats or decide to keep it plain.
Setting up a tablescape? Consider investing in a set of chic black dishes and mugs, they are perfect for everyday meals and special haunted occasions. You’ll probably find yourself using them more often than expected.
