Via Broma Bakery

I don’t think I was much of a Halloween person until the last few years. Orange is not my color unless it’s Hermés {insert sassy side-hand emoji here} and I absolutely CANNOT with scary movies/haunted houses etc.

I saw “The Sixth Sense” for the first time when I was around 12 and I still fear walking down a dark hallway and seeing a ghost at the end that turns around with half it’s head blown off. #NoThankYou

But when we were living in Hollywood we had this beautiful 1920s Art Deco apartment that just lent itself to the season {There was also a Haunted Hollywood tour bus that would stop in front of our place regularly…but I chose to ignore that fact because #Fears}

Anyway, not only did I start decorating for Halloween, but every year we would host a pumpkin carving party and it was SO fun! I loved coming up with decor, food and drink that were equal parts spooky and chic. Plus, not to toot my own horn, but it’s widely recognized that I have mad pumpkin carving skills. #SorryNotSorry #IllTakeItWhereICanGetIt So here you go, from the Carving Queen, herself…

Tips for a Haute Halloween:

1.Set the Story

Instead of just throwing random skulls and spiders around, think about the story you’re trying to tell with your decorations.

Are you in the basement of a mad scientist filled with apothecary jars and creepy medical instruments? In a graveyard surrounded by the dearly departed, with tombstones and a hearse and freaky groundskeeper? A previously luxe home now filled with stylish ghosts from days gone by? Sleepy Hollow with a rustic vibe and Headless Horseman clues strewn about? Witches Lair?

Pick one theme and stick to it so you can bring in special little details that set that stage and make the experience that much richer.

2. Delight all the Senses

Often when we think of holiday decorating or decor in general we think visually. Obviously, this is a central component, but we have 5 senses! {Still doesn’t stop me from freaking out in hallways, as previously mentioned}

 Use scent to make a space both cozy and sophisticated- I’m a big fan of scented candles,  Pinecones and Cinnamon brooms this time of year {you can get the last two at Trader Joe’s for like $3!}.

If you’re leaning toward spooky vibes kick the a/c up a notch to put a chill in the air – literally.

Obviously you’re going to have fab eats and cocktails {or at least any type of alcohol mixed with apple cider} but if you can fit them into your story that’s even more enticing! I have some amazing Halloween cocktail ideas linked on my Haute Halloween Pinterest Board that could be put into science beakers or apothecary jars for that story, an awesome caramel apple how-to for a Sleepy Hollow vibe and more.

Don’t forget sounds of the season! There are plenty of Halloween specific playlists out there featuring Monster Mash {which, let’s be honest. Is a classic}and Thriller, but if you are in the mood for something a little more sassy and sophisticated, head on over to Spotify and check out my Lost Luxe- Fall Feels Playlist or scroll to the bottom of this post to listen here! It’s not Halloween per se, just songs that have me feeling all those Fall feelzzzzz.

3. Opt out of Orange

This is totally a personal preference, but as I mentioned before, to me, Orange is not the new Black. Black is the new black.

You can never go wrong with Black, White and shades of Grey. I am currently obsessed with White pumpkins – they’re like little gourd ghosts! A little color can be thrown in for accent as well, but keeping it to a minimum feels more elegant to me.

When I was at Disneyland recently the Haunted Mansion was decked in gorgeous garlands that incorporated black and white striped ribbon, some Fall foliage and little persimmon branches. Perfect pops of color.

With that being said…

4. Go For the Gold

I think Gold is totally underrated for Halloween. It’s more often associated with Christmas or New Years but Black and Gold is a quintessential combo, and I’m a big fan of it for a ritzy Halloween feel especially if you have Gold that’s a bit tarnished to up the creepy factor.

Dying over these party invites!

5. Do it Vintage

Vintage Halloween is the best. Think of the creepiest shows and movies : American Horror Story, Frankenstein etc – they are all set in the past and scarier because it’s a time unknown.

I love the idea of using vintage images like everywhere you can. Loving these printable vintage apothecary labels from Lia Griffith! Download them to print FREE HERE.

6. Light It Up

One of the best ways to create an elegant Halloween atmosphere is CANDLES. You can turn down the lights and still have a spooky yet seductive setting with lots of candle light.

Groupings of candles in every corner and across a table set the mood just right. Bonus points if you can have a candelabra floating mid-air like it’s being held my a ghost. {Just don’t light anything on fire, Witches}

Light the candles prior to your party so you can get some rad melted wax drips down the side. If you have enough candles why even turn the lights on? Dark corners were made for Halloween.

What are your favorite tips for a Chic Halloween? What is your costume this year? Tell me in the comments! PS – don’t forget to check out the Lost Luxe – Fall Feels Playlist below or on Spotify. I’ve had it on repeat over here for weeks.

Xx,

Caitlin

Images via: 1. Lia Griffith / 2. Everyone / 3. Sweet Paul / .4 SMP & Happy Wedd / 5. Fettle / 6. SMP