Compiled by the editorial desk with reference to interviews with interior designers Bree Steele and Jan Odesanya.

As the calendar turns from October to November, many households face the same dilemma: whether to dismantle the Halloween decorations and start fresh for Thanksgiving, or find a way to make the existing autumn decor stretch a little further. Interior designers say a handful of Halloween items can carry over seamlessly, saving time, money, and storage space.

Bree Steele, an interior designer at RJ Living, and Jan Odesanya, founder of Mondän & Co., shared their insights on which seasonal pieces are versatile enough to bridge both holidays. Their advice focuses on color, texture, and strategic styling rather than wholesale replacement.

Lighting and Candles Set the Mood

Lighting is one of the easiest elements to transition. Steele notes that the same dim overhead lights, candles, and glass lanterns that created a spooky Halloween vibe can be adapted for Thanksgiving. “For Halloween, they can create a more dark and moody atmosphere, but at Thanksgiving, they can create a more cozy and warm feeling,” she says. Swapping out black candles for white ones, or adding fall-scented candles like pumpkin spice or apple cider, can shift the ambiance without changing the fixtures.

Cozy Textiles in Autumn Hues

Blankets and pillows are another crossover category, provided they lean on color rather than overt Halloween motifs. Steele advises focusing on textures and autumnal shades—reds, browns, and oranges—which evoke the season without being holiday-specific. Chunky knits and textured weaves add visual interest while keeping the space inviting. The key is to retire any pieces with ghouls, spiders, or other Halloween-specific prints.

Pumpkins Beyond the Jack-O'-Lantern

Carved pumpkins are typically a one-night affair, but uncarved varieties can last well into Thanksgiving. Odesanya suggests using white pumpkins, heirloom pumpkins with unusual shapes, or a cluster of mini pumpkins displayed in a wooden bowl. If you've already carved jack-o'-lanterns, you can turn them around to show the uncarved side, though they may only last about a week after carving.

Branches and Foliage as Statement Pieces

Bare branches, often overlooked, are a versatile decor element. With a spotlight, they cast haunting shadows for Halloween; placed in a vase with pinecones and pumpkins, they become a rustic Thanksgiving accent. Adding a few leaves provides a pop of color that works for both seasons.

A Centerpiece That Transitions

For those hosting gatherings, a single centerpiece can be adapted rather than replaced. Steele recommends building a base with pinecones, candlestick holders, scented candles, and branches. “This will be a good base for Halloween, where you can jazz it up by adding some fake cobwebs and using black candles in the holders,” she explains. “Then, swap them out for white candles when Thanksgiving rolls around, and you will be good to go.”

This approach not only reduces the effort of redecorating but also aligns with sustainable practices by extending the life of decor items. For those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic or simply want to avoid the hassle of a full seasonal overhaul, these designer-approved strategies offer a practical middle ground.