With the days getting shorter and the weather getting colder, it's no wonder people get the "winter doldrums". However, you (and your home) don't have to. Until the weather becomes more inviting, turn to your home for comfort from Mother Nature, who tends to be fickle at this time of year. Here are some simple ways to warm up your decor this winter.



White: Not just the color of snow

Even though light at this time of year is limited, white fabrics will brighten up the room and make the most of light that is there by reflecting it. Replace heavy drapes with lighter colors and breezier fabrics that let the light shine through.

Let there be light

Try out "candle-light" bulbs, which you can find anywhere standard light bulbs are sold. These bulbs will add a golden glow, and the difference in the feel of your room will amaze you. And you don't always have to imitate candlelight - light candles to create an ambience that will lift your mood and relax you.

Add explosions of color

Join neutral colors with strong, vivid hues to add instant warmth and beauty to a room. Pick a color ? try a deep teal, for example? and accessorize a neutral room with teal pillows, accent rugs, or even candles. It'll add the perfect burst of color to warm up the room. Don't forget your window treatments - they can offer the perfect color accessory to complement the room colors and brighten up a room.

If you can't change the season, change your background

It's becoming more popular to make wallpaper a temporary accessory, instead of a permanent part of a home's decor. So if can't take a vacation to escape the winter, a new background in your living space is the next best thing! If you really want to transform your space into someplace tropical, use breezy island-themed patterns for borders. You can always change them next season!

Gather ?round the fireplace

Stop staring at the TV! Most living rooms offer the television as the focal point of the room. Rearranging your furniture to place your fireplace as the main attraction will add a nice change in scenery and make the room feel homier, getting you through the harshest days of winter. And if you hate the hassle of starting and maintaining a fire, try placing tall, light-colored candles in your fireplace for a similar glow.

Look under your feet

Floors are often overlooked, but they, too, can do wonders for warming up a drab, wintry household. Use warm, textured throw rugs to add comfort and warmth to the room.

It's not too early for greenery

Cut some stems of flowering shrubs like forsythia, and bring them inside to place them in water. They'll be tricked into thinking it's spring, and so will you! Or, try silk flowers in bright, springy colors to add some brightness and color to your home.

Small changes can make a big difference

You don't need to start a huge project to get rid of the winter blues. Simple tasks like placing a mirror near a window to reflect light are quick and easy but make a huge difference. Introducing light and neutral accessories like white picture frames will also make a difference when incorporated into your home's decor.

So, don't get discouraged as winter sets in! Use it as an opportunity to add some style to your home design, and the cozy feeling will be quick to follow!