There are many directions you can go with a
decoration theme. Certainly there are the colors of black and
orange that can be integrated into the decor and the use of
pumpkins or candles, which still scream Halloween but can be
displayed elegantly.
Gary LaVasser, academic director in Set & Exhibit Design at The
Art Institute of California -- Hollywood, a campus of Argosy
University, says that while everyone thinks of orange and black
consider the combination of dark red and black.
At Halloween, any time black is used it represents scariness and
the dark red can be symbolic of blood. “For a more sophisticated
look, combine dark red arrangements of roses, cover them in
black hat veiling so that you see the roses through the veil and
tie them together with black satin ribbon,” he suggests. “If you
want to go a little further, place the arrangement on an
inexpensive black placemat and drip dark red nail polish from a
few rose petals onto the placemat. It will look like the roses
are bleeding.”
LaVasser also has these tips for alternative but sophisticated
Halloween decor:
Use vintage Halloween toys from the 1930s, 40s or 50s as part
of the design. If they are worn they have more character.
Combine them with garlands of silk fall leaves available at most
craft stores, tree branches or wheat and place on mantels or
dining tables.
Paint objects black that normally are not this color. For
example, jack-o-lanterns are orange so spray them black for a
twist on a familiar item. Also consider painting real flowers
black. To make objects more interesting, select different black
textures such as using matte, glitter, satin, gloss or metallic
paints.
The colors of fall are rich earth tones and
these colors also associate with Halloween. Add a little
“punch” by using a deep purple color. It can be an interesting
contrast to oranges and gold tones. Also consider using metallic
gold, copper and pewter colors. You can paint leaves or pumpkins
with these shades as well.
LaVasser adds that one can look for inspiration among different
cultures and how they celebrate certain holidays or Halloween. A
Latino tradition is Day of the Dead, observed on November 1st
and 2nd, which celebrates family and friends who have passed.
“Day of the Dead decor includes folk art, candles, colorful
flowers and bright ribbons together with skeletons,” says
LaVasser. “This theme offers great options for Halloween.”
[Article copied from ARAContent] |