From gloomy to glam: Eight winter styling tips that won't break the bank

Winter is upon us, which means the days are darker and the temperature is dropping. One simple way to avoid the gloominess of this season is to rethink the styling of your home.

"Winter doesn't have to feel dull or dreary," says founder and principal stylist at Vault Interiors, Justine Wilson. "It's the perfect opportunity to play with layering, texture and mood, and with so many affordable retailers, everyone can achieve a stylish, seasonal home they love."

For Ms Wilson, seasonal styling isn't about redecorating your home or replacing everything in it.

"It's about thoughtful swaps, clever additions, and layering that creates a warm and cosy feel," she says. "You can achieve this look affordably with items from stores like Kmart, Target, IKEA, and Bunnings, or even your local op shop."

Ms Wilson shares her top tips for warming up your home in the winter months.

1. Change up your fabrics

One simple change to create more warmth is to swap out the fabrics you're using around the home.

"Textural cushions are one of the easiest ways to update a room for winter," Ms Wilson says. "Swap your light linens for rich velvets or tactile bouclé in earthy hues like rust, forest green, or chocolate."

2. Unpack your throws

If you've had your heavy throws packed away during the warmer months, get them out and layer over furniture.

"Nothing says cosy like a chunky knit or faux fur throw," says Ms Wilson. "Drape them over sofas, beds, or armchairs to add instant warmth and visual comfort."

3. Set the mood

Don't let the darker, shorter days make you feel gloomy, instead warm your home up with ambient lighting.

Ms Wilson suggests swapping out overhead lights for floor or table lamps with warm-toned bulbs. The perfect way to create a warm, soft glow inside.

4. Embrace the dark side

Changing up the colours you are using in your home will create a warmer feel to your space.

"Incorporate deeper colours such as navy, burgundy, and charcoal through vases, candles, and decorative objects to ground your space in the cooler months," Ms Wilson says.

5. Don't forget your floors

Introducing a rug not only changes the look of a room, but it also adds much needed insulation - especially for homes with tiles, concrete or floorboards. Ms Wilson suggests opting for "patterns in tribal or vintage styles to add character and warmth."

6. Bring the outdoors in

While you might not be spending much time outdoors, but you can still incorporate the natural world into your interiors.

"There are amazing realistic faux plants available at Bunnings and most homeware stores," says Ms Wilson. "Or forage from your own garden or neighbours with permission, green foliage or beautiful bare branches in a large vase bring the outdoors in, with a seasonal twist."

7. Change up your bedding

Cotton and linen sheets can feel cold in winter. Ms Wilson says swapping them out for soft flannelette or jersey will help you "stay toasty through chilly nights."

8. Entice your senses

Like any season, there are specific scents we associate with the winter months.

"Add winter-friendly scents like sandalwood, cedar, vanilla, or spiced cinnamon through diffusers or candles," says Ms Wilson. "They'll add a layer of comfort and sensory appeal."