5 Autumn Prints Every Designer Should Try This Season

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, autumn brings with it a wealth of inspiration for designers. The season’s rich palette and cosy vibes offer the perfect opportunity to experiment with bold, timeless, and nature-inspired prints. Whether you’re designing for fashion, homeware, or accessories, staying ahead of seasonal trends can set your work apart. In this blog, we’ll uncover five must-have autumn prints that are versatile enough to elevate any project. From classic plaids to moody florals, these patterns will spark creativity and resonate with your audience. And for businesses looking to expand their inventory with unique designs, Contrado’s custom products provide the ideal solution for creating bespoke collections or fulfilling bulk orders for seasonal events, ensuring your vision comes to life with premium quality and sustainable practices.

Why Autumn Prints Matter for Designers

Autumn is a season of transition, and its aesthetic reflects a blend of warmth, nostalgia, and earthy tones. Prints inspired by this time of year can evoke a sense of comfort and connection, making them incredibly appealing to consumers. For designers, incorporating seasonal patterns isn’t just about following trends—it’s about telling a story through your work. Whether it’s a scarf, a cushion cover, or a statement wall art piece, the right print can transform a simple item into a seasonal must-have.

Moreover, autumn prints are incredibly versatile. They can be adapted for various industries, from fashion to interiors, and appeal to a wide range of demographics. By mastering these patterns, you position yourself as a forward-thinking designer who understands the pulse of the season.

The Top 5 Autumn Prints to Inspire Your Designs

Let’s dive into the five autumn prints that every designer should consider this season. Each pattern offers unique possibilities for creativity and application, ensuring you stay on-trend while adding your personal touch.

1. Timeless Plaids: A Classic Reimagined

Plaid is synonymous with autumn, conjuring images of cosy blankets and rustic countryside charm. This year, plaids are making a comeback with modern twists—think oversized checks or unexpected colour combinations like deep burgundy with mustard yellow. Plaid works beautifully across various mediums, from scarves and shirts to throw pillows and table runners.

Why It Works:

• Timeless appeal that resonates with all age groups.
• Versatile for both minimalist and bold design aesthetics.
• Perfect for layering in fashion or adding warmth to home décor.

Design Tip: Experiment with scale. A large plaid can make a bold statement on a coat, while a smaller check adds subtle texture to accessories like bags or socks.

2. Cozy Tartans: Heritage with a Modern Edge

Similar to plaid but with a stronger nod to heritage, tartan prints bring a sense of tradition to autumn designs. Originating from Scottish culture, tartans are often associated with warmth and history, making them ideal for seasonal collections. Modern interpretations might include muted tones or asymmetrical layouts to give this classic pattern a contemporary feel.

How to Use It:

• Incorporate tartan into winter-ready fashion like skirts or jackets.
• Use it for homeware items like bedding or curtains for a snug, inviting look.

Best Practice: Pair tartan with solid colours to avoid overwhelming the design. A neutral base allows the pattern to stand out without clashing.

3. Abstract Foliage: Nature’s Artistry

Autumn is synonymous with falling leaves, and abstract foliage prints capture this essence in a creative, non-literal way. Think swirling shapes, painterly brushstrokes, or fragmented leaf motifs in shades of amber, rust, and olive. This print is perfect for designers who want to evoke the spirit of autumn without being overly traditional.

Why Designers Love It:

• Offers a fresh, artistic take on seasonal themes.
• Works well in both fashion (dresses, scarves) and interiors (wallpaper, cushions).
• Can be adapted to bold or subtle colour palettes.

Application Idea: Use abstract foliage as a statement print on a single piece, like a maxi dress or a feature wall, to create a focal point in your collection.

4. Moody Florals: Dark and Dramatic

Florals aren’t just for spring—autumn florals take on a darker, more dramatic tone with deep hues like navy, plum, and forest green. These moody prints often feature oversized blooms or intricate details, making them ideal for adding depth to your designs. They’re particularly striking in evening wear or luxurious home décor.

Key Benefits:

• Adds a touch of sophistication and mystery to any piece.
• Perfect for transitioning summer designs into cooler months.
• Works across multiple mediums, from clothing to art prints.

Design Tip: Balance moody florals with minimalist elements to prevent the design from feeling too heavy. A simple silhouette or neutral background can let the print shine.

5. Earthy Geometrics: Modern and Grounded

For designers who prefer a more contemporary look, earthy geometric prints offer a fresh take on autumn trends. Inspired by natural textures like bark or stone, these patterns use muted tones and angular shapes to create a grounded yet modern aesthetic. They’re especially popular in accessories and minimalist homeware.

Why It’s Trending:

• Bridges the gap between seasonal and timeless design.
• Appeals to younger demographics looking for unique, modern patterns.
• Easy to mix and match with other prints or solid colours.

How to Incorporate: Use earthy geometrics on smaller items like phone cases, notebooks, or tote bags for a subtle nod to autumn without overwhelming the design.

How to Bring These Prints to Life in Your Projects

Now that you’ve got inspiration from these five autumn prints, the next step is turning your ideas into tangible products. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

1. Research Your Audience: Understand who you’re designing for. Are they drawn to bold plaids or subtle florals? Tailor your print choice to their preferences.
2. Choose the Right Medium: Consider where your print will have the most impact. A moody floral might shine on a statement dress, while a tartan could elevate a set of cushions.
3. Experiment with Colour: Autumn is all about rich, warm tones, but don’t be afraid to play with unexpected shades to make your design stand out.
4. Test and Refine: Create mock-ups or samples to see how the print translates in real life. Adjust scale, colour, or layout as needed.
5. Partner with Experts: For high-quality, sustainable production, collaborate with a trusted provider to bring your vision to life with precision and care.

For more inspiration on creating seasonal collections, check out our guide on Designing for Seasonal Trends or explore our range of Custom Fashion Products to see how your prints can come to life.

Tips for Staying Ahead of Autumn Design Trends

Staying relevant as a designer means keeping an eye on emerging trends while maintaining your unique style. Here are a few tips to ensure your autumn prints resonate with your audience:

• Follow Nature’s Lead: Draw inspiration from the changing landscape—think falling leaves, misty mornings, and harvest hues.
• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to combine prints like plaid and foliage for a layered, eclectic look.
• Sustainability Matters: Opt for eco-friendly materials and on-demand production to align with growing consumer demand for ethical practices.
• Engage Your Community: Share your design process on social media to build excitement around your autumn collection.

Conclusion: Create Your Autumn Masterpiece

Autumn is a season brimming with creative potential, and these five prints—timeless plaids, cosy tartans, abstract foliage, moody florals, and earthy geometrics—offer endless opportunities to craft designs that captivate. Whether you’re refreshing your fashion line or adding seasonal flair to homeware, these patterns can help you connect with your audience on a deeper level. Remember to experiment, adapt, and let your unique style shine through every piece.

Ready to bring your autumn designs to life? Start creating with Contrado today and enjoy 10% off your first order. Let us help you turn your seasonal inspiration into premium, custom-made products that stand out.