The Art of Layering

As the golden leaves begin to fall and cooler evenings draw in, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a home that feels like a warm embrace. For AW25, ILIV is celebrating the season of comfort with expert tips and stunning fabric collections that make layering effortless, inviting, and oh-so-stylish.

“Autumn Winter is all about creating layers you can feel, not just see,” says Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV. “It’s those tactile details like plush cushions, velvety throws and soft curtains, that transform a room into a space where you want to slow down and savour the season. The beauty of layering is that it’s completely personal; it’s about mixing textures and tones that make you feel at home. Whether that’s a chunky knit casually draped across a bed or a mix of velvet and wool cushions on the sofa, these little touches make a big difference. Layering isn’t just practical for warmth, it adds depth, character and a sense of comfort that feels right at this time of year.”

Why Layering Matters

Layering is more than a design trend, it’s a practical way to bring warmth and personality into every corner of your home. By combining textures, tones and fabrics, you can create a setting that feels both lived-in and luxurious, making it perfect for cosy nights and sun-dappled evenings.

Debbie adds, "One of my favourite tricks is mixing different textures, as it immediately makes a room feel cosy and full of character. I love throwing a chunky-knit blanket over a smooth velvet sofa, or layering a soft wool rug underneath to create a little inviting corner. On the bed, pairing a soft cotton bedspread with a wool or boucle throw gives that perfect autumnal warmth. Curtains are great for adding texture too, for example, heavy full-length curtains with a lighter voile layered behind will catch the light beautifully and make the room feel finished. Even small details like adding a fabric valance to a bed or window can bring another layer of softness and give the space a tailored, timeless feel."

"Cushions, table runners and even upholstered chairs are all chances to play with fabrics and have fun creating your ideal, cosy space. This season, don’t be afraid to mix in richer colour tones too. Ochres, deep greens and berry reds can help to make a space feel instantly snug and welcoming," continues Debbie.

ILIV’s Autumn Winter Layering Tips

Start with your base

You don’t need to redo your whole room to make it feel cosy. Swap a few summer cushions for heavier, textured ones or drape a soft throw over your favourite chair. Fabrics like wool blends, velvet and boucle instantly make your space feel snug and welcoming, giving it a comforting, seasonal lift.

Mix and match textures

Layering isn’t just about the look, it’s about how fabrics feel together. Pair soft velvet and knitted wool cushions on a sofa, or layer a chunky boucle blanket on a sleek leather armchair. Combining different textures, colours and patterns will help to add personality to your home, making it feel lived-in and inviting.

Play with Seasonal tones

Introduce earthy neutrals and warming shades to bring seasonal character into your home. Try adding small accents in rich autumnal shades through cushions, table runners and throws. Deep, comforting shades such as amber, russet, deep green and soft berry will bring seasonal charm and a cosy atmosphere without needing to repaint walls or replace your furniture.

Debbie concludes, "Layering isn’t about clutter, it’s about making your home feel cosy, welcoming and full of life. Soft textured fabrics and rich autumnal colours bring the season inside, creating a space that invites you to curl up with a book, share a quiet evening with family, or simply slow down and enjoy the season. With the right fabrics and tones, your home can feel like a comforting retreat all year round."