Choosing Earth Toned Rugs to Reflect the Fall Season

The days are getting shorter, the air’s feeling crisper, and the best part? It’s time to get cozy! You’re already switching out your summer decor for those rich, warm fall tones that make your home feel like a cozy autumn retreat. While candles, blankets, and throw pillows are the usual go-to fall staples, there's one unsung hero that deserves the spotlight this season — the earth toned rugs.

Yep, we’re talking about those beautiful browns, warm taupes, rich ochres, and soothing terracotta hues that scream fall without saying a word. These earth toned rugs have a magical way of grounding your space, giving it that warm, welcoming feel we all crave when the leaves start to change. So, if you’re ready to fall head over heels for earth toned rugs (pun absolutely intended), grab your pumpkin spiced latte and let’s dive in!

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of rug selection, let’s take a minute to appreciate why earth toned rugs are perfect for the fall season. These hues mimic nature’s transition from vibrant greens to muted, moody colors. Think about the deep browns of tree trunks, the burnt oranges of leaves, and the golden glow of an autumn sunset — earth toned rugs instantly evoke feelings of warmth, coziness, and calm. They’re the ultimate seasonal color palette, but more importantly, they’re timeless!

Plus, earth toned rugs have that incredible ability to blend seamlessly into any decor style. Whether you’re a fan of modern minimalism, love a rustic farmhouse vibe, or lean towards eclectic boho chic, earthy shades just work. And the best part? They never go out of style, so your rug game is strong year-round, not just for fall!

Let’s kick things off with a classic — brown rugs. Brown often gets a bad rap for being too “safe” or “boring,” but in reality, it’s a powerhouse when it comes to grounding a space. Brown is the ultimate neutral. It anchors the room, makes everything feel warm, and gives a cozy, intimate vibe. If you want your home to feel like a welcoming cabin retreat (without the cabin), a brown rug is your new best friend!

Brown rugs are perfect for living rooms and dining rooms where you want to create an inviting, cozy space. Pair them with warm-toned wooden furniture or even leather accents for that sophisticated, grounded feel.

Pro Tip: Play around with different shades of brown! From dark chocolate hues to light sandy browns, there’s a range of options that can add depth and dimension to your room. Layer in pillows and throws in mustard yellows or deep reds for an even cozier vibe.

If brown is the solid, dependable one, then terracotta is the fun, flirty friend you can’t get enough of. Terracotta and rust-colored rugs are having a major moment, and they’re absolutely perfect for the fall season. These shades are warm, inviting, and instantly add a touch of spice to your space (and not just because they resemble cinnamon and nutmeg).

Terracotta and rust are bold but not overbearing. They pair beautifully with neutral furniture, and they bring an unexpected pop of color without clashing with your existing decor. Plus, these colors look stunning when the golden hour hits your living room — talk about autumn glow-up!

Add a terracotta rug in your bedroom for a warm, serene vibe, or place one in your entryway to make a cozy first impression. Pair it with natural textures like jute or rattan, and you’ll have that I-just-walked-into-a-fall-catalog feeling every time you enter the room.

You know that dreamy golden hour light that hits right before sunset? Imagine capturing that glow and bringing it indoors — that’s what golden ochre rugs do for your home. Golden ochre is rich, vibrant, and reminiscent of those stunning fall leaves or a field of wheat glowing in the sun. It’s warm, it’s cozy, and it makes you feel like you’re wrapped in the season itself.

Ochre rugs are bold but super versatile. They pair beautifully with other earth toned rugs (hello, brown and terracotta!) but also pop against a neutral backdrop. For a more modern look, pair an ochre rug with soft grays and creams, or go boho with natural wood accents and greenery.

Pro Tip: Want to go all out with the fall aesthetic? Layer an ochre rug with cozy throw blankets, chunky knits, and warm-toned candles. You’ll basically be living in an autumn dreamland. 

Not ready to go bold with color? No problem! Taupe and sand colored rugs are the perfect way to dip your toes into earth toned rugs without overwhelming your space. These muted shades are subtle, calming, and bring an effortless sense of serenity to any room.

Neutral rugs like taupe and sand are perfect for bedrooms and living rooms where you want to create a peaceful, zen-like environment. They’re incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on your vibe. Layer them with natural materials like wool or linen for a cozy, textural feel.

Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring! Taupe and sand rugs allow you to play with texture and pattern without the distraction of bold colors. Think geometric prints or intricate patterns that bring visual interest without stealing the show.

Last but not least, let’s talk forest green. While not technically a traditional “earth toned rugs,” forest green is a beautiful, grounding color that evokes the lushness of nature. And what better way to bring the outdoors in than with a stunning green rug that feels both cozy and fresh?

Forest green rugs are perfect for creating a rich, moody vibe in your home. Pair them with wood furniture and earthy decor for a cabin-in-the-woods feel, or go modern with sleek, minimalist accents. They’re versatile and bring a fresh pop of color to your fall decor without feeling too summery.

Pro Tip: Mix forest green with other autumnal hues like burnt orange or mustard yellow for a bold yet balanced look.

Now that we’ve covered the top earth toned rugs color, how do you actually choose the right rug for your space? Here are a few quick tips:

1. Size Matters: Make sure your rug is proportional to your room. A too-small rug can make a room feel disjointed, while a large rug will anchor your space and make it feel cohesive.
   
   

2. Material: For fall, choose earth toned rugs with a bit of texture. Wool, jute, and cotton are all great options for adding warmth to your space.
   
   

3. Layering is Key: Don’t be afraid to layer your earth toned rugs! Place a smaller, bold rug over a neutral base for a stylish, dynamic look.
   
   

4. Maintenance: Earth toned rugs tend to hide dirt well (another reason to love them!), but make sure you clean them regularly to keep them looking fresh.

There you have it! Earth toned rugs are the perfect way to reflect the fall season in your home, and with so many options to choose from Mark & Day, you can easily find one that fits your style and space. Whether you go bold with terracotta or keep it subtle with taupe, these earth toned rugs will make your home feel warm, cozy, and oh-so-inviting!