12 DIY Ways to Use Real Fall Leaves

When the leaves start falling, don’t rush to rake them up—or completely pulverize them by jumping in a pile over and over and over! As tempting as that may be, reserve a handful or two for some fall-inspired DIYing. These 12 ways to use real fall leaves will transform your living space into a fun, fall wonderland that looks just as festive as the outdoors! And don’t worry: while some of these projects list faux foliage as a material, we’re fairly certain that freshly fallen leaves can stand up to each of these projects.

1. Giving Thanks Gold Leaf Garland: We love the sentiment behind this leaf DIY: each gold painted leaf is personalized with something to be thankful for. This beautiful garland acts as a great reminder to pause, say thanks, and celebrate! (via The Sweetest Occasion)

2. Leaf Pillow Cases: Turn leaves into the ultimate fall stamp with just a bit of black fabric paint. This bold leaf graphic transforms these plain, decorative pillows into a stand-out piece of living room decor. (via Butiksofie)

3. Gold Lead Mobile: As you know by now, mobiles aren’t just for nurseries anymore, so do trick out your ceiling with this dashing gold leaf mobile. Don’t the gilded leaves look gorgeous falling from the natural twig hoop?

4. Clay Leaf Bowls: Don’t be intimidated by this super pro-looking DIY clay leaf bowl. We’ll put things into perspective: a 3-year old made this dish. Yep. And it looks really amazing. Kudos to mom who helped every step of the way and who’s fully responsible for its beautiful, iridescent finish, which you can get by spraying gold paint on a base coat of bright acrylic colors. (via Debbiedoo’s)

5. Leaf Place Cards: Save that gold spray paint for this easy DIY that turns fallen leaves into personalized place cards. You can bet that this is how we’ll be dressing up our table for our office feast next week! (Brit + Co.)

6. Painted Leaf Banner: Take the bold approach when it comes to natural leaf garland (we would!). These color block leaves look so clean and modern, they could for sure decorate your room all year long. (via Scrappy Happiness)

7. Leaf Printed Linens: We’re obsessed with this amazing way to customize your Thanksgiving table. An almost ghostly leaf pattern amps up a plain linen table cloth to epic autumn proportions. (via Funtober)

8. Stamped Metallic Leaf Plates: This might be the perfect way to deck out that set of white thrift store plates in time for Thanksgiving. Food-safe metallic paint gives a handsome shine to the stunning natural graphics. (via Wayfair)

9. Painted Fall Leaves: Here’s another one of our favorite leaf DIYs. Tied to twigs with shiny gold, these two-toned leaves would make the ultimate fall centerpiece.(via Love from Ginger)

10. Glitter Leaves Garland: Embrace the dark browns and rich golds of autumn with a glittery twist. Hang this garland anywhere in your pad that could use some extra sparkle. (via 6th Street Design School)

11. Fall Leaves Bowl: This delicate leaf bowl is quite the head turner, all thanks to an ample amount of Mod Podge and a foam ball form. If you want to use real leaves for this DIY, make sure they’re freshly fallen so that they’re flexible enough to bend without breaking. (via Shelterness)

12. Pennant Leaf Garland: We love the idea that a leaf-collecting outing with the fam can turn into a day of making together. Be sure to get the kids involved in this easy DIY, which uses dried leaves to embellish a pennant banner made from old books. (via Simple As That)

Have you used real leaves in a fall-inspired project? Tell us in the comments below!

If you keep seeing the same 3- or 4-number sequences everywhere – on clocks, receipts, or license plates – you might be noticing what people refer to as ‘angel numbers.’ These repeating digits are believed to carry spiritual messages that typically offer guidance, reassurance, or simply a little cosmic nudge in the right direction – just like astrology!

Whether you think it's pure coincidence or a sign from the universe, angel numbers have a fascinating way of showing up just when you need them the most.

Read on for everything you need to know about angel numbers — including their powerful meaning!

What are angel numbers?

Maria Radice / Dupe

Angel numbers are sequences of numbers that are commonly believed to carry spiritual messages from angels, divine beings, or the universe. You can often spot angel numbers on clocks, license plates, signs, or even dreams. Each angel number sequence is thought to have a specific meaning behind it, depending on the interpretation.

What are examples of angel numbers?

Natasha Torres / Dupe

Common examples of angel numbers include sequences like 111, 333, 444, and so on.

What are the common angel numbers and their meanings?

Alejandra Isunza / Dupe

  • 111: This sequence can signify new beginnings or assist in manifestation.
  • 222: This angel number can represent balance and harmony, as well as encourage you to trust the process.
  • 333: Often symbolizes divine protection, guidance, and encouragement from your angels – or whatever higher power you believe in.
  • 444: This angel number sequence can be a sign of stability, reassurance, and that your angels and the universe are supporting you in your endeavors.
  • 555: Indicates that major life changes and transformations are coming.
  • 666: This number serves as a reminder to focus on your inner balance, thoughts, and personal growth (it’s not always a negative number).
  • 777: Represents spiritual enlightenment, luck, and divine wisdom.
  • 888: This can be a sign of financial abundance, success, and karmic rewards. Score!
  • 999: Symbolizes the completion of a chapter and readiness for a new beginning.
  • 1111: This one can be seen as a powerful manifestation number signaling alignment with your purpose and dreams.

Why should I pay attention to angel numbers?

Shai / Dupe

Paying attention to angel numbers can be extra meaningful if you believe in spiritual guidance or personal growth. They can serve as gentle reminders to trust your intuition when making big decisions, meeting new people, or starting a new chapter in your life.

Even if you don’t whole-heartedly believe in spiritual signs, noticing patterns in things like angel numbers can help you stay present and reflect on where you are in life!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more about angel numbers + astrology!

We’re always super pumped for a new season, because that means a whole new crop of shoe trends! Turns out, spring 2025 is bringing such a fresh energy to footwear – and you’ll be elated to know that all of this season’s trends blend style and the utmost comfort. From pops of pink to functional materials, the spring shoetrends for 2025 are anything but boring.

Get ready to step into spring with these 5 hottest shoe trends (with must-have styles)!

1. Pink Sneakers

ASOS

Adidas Originals Gazelle Bold Sneakers

Pink sneakers are simply so fun. They’re such a playful way to add a pop of color to your ‘fits, plus the color feels like an entire match for the spring season!

DSW

Puma Club II Era Sneakers

Soft pastels and bold bubblegum shades are popping up more and more in designer collections and streetwear, so they can easily span across both casual and dressy looks.

Free People

Keen Jasper Zionic Sneakers

Pair your pink sneaks with baggy or barrel jeans or even some overalls for an epic weekend outfit, or try ‘em out with a flowy sundress to add a sporty contrast!

2. Elevated Flip Flops

Target

Shade & Shore Palmer Square Toe Flip Flops

We all have that one pair of flip flops that has been through hell and back – and while they’re definitely okay to wear around the house to get chores done or check the mail, you can still sport some flip flops this season when it’s time to leave the house with more elevated styles.

OluKai

OluKai Tiare Leather Sandals

Flip flops are stepping up with fun square toes, platform soles, and luxe materials like leather. They offer the ease of a traditional flip flop, but with a more refined look.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Darcie Platform Flip Flops

Style your elevated flip flops with wide-leg linen pants and a fitted tank top for a polished, yet laidback look. They also wear well with slip dresses for an effortless vacation vibe.

3. Clogs

Camper

Camper Brutus Sandals

Clogs are totally making a comeback, and I am so here for it! With a blend of vintage charm and modern comfort, they’re super easy to wear with whatever outfit you want to pull off.

Free People

Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs

I like rocking my clogs with wide-leg jeans for an extra-cozy ‘fit.

SeaVees

SeaVees Bodega Clogs

They are also fun to style alongside some denim shorts and fun socks for a quirkier look!

4. Fisherman Sandals

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Flicker Clear Sandals

These strappy, utilitarian-style sandals balance full-on comfort and coolness for the springtime. Originally designed for seaside practicality, they’ve been reimagined in more sleek modern designs.

Free People

Dr. Martens Wrenlie Fisherman Sandals

The structured silhouette of fisherman sandals also undeniably complements the current trend of functional fashion.

Madewell

Madewell The Milano Fisherman Sandals

Try pairing them with tailored shorts and a breezy blouse, or wear them with a midi skirt and a fitted tee.

5. Shoe Charms

Free People

Free People Shoe Charm & Pin Pack

Shoe charms bring total personalization to footwear, whether it’s through charms for sneakers or ribbons on heels.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Shoelace Charms Set

This spring shoe trend taps into the revival of Y2K style and the rise of more and more playfulness with accessories.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Icon Shoe Charm Set

This spring shoe trend taps into the revival of Y2K style and the rise of more and more playfulness with accessories.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more trending fashion picks!

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The highly-anticipated A Court of Thorns and Roses movie may be canceled, but Sarah J. Maas pulled an uno reverse card that makes up for it. ACOTAR book 6 is in the works and may be here within the next year! As immense lovers of Onyx Storm, we're willing to set that series aside in favor of this one. Call it a hot take, but we think it has arguably one of the best takes onromantasy.

If you're just as excited as we about a new ACOTAR book, let's chat about what's to come!

Everything to know about Sarah J. Maas' plans for the ACOTAR universe, plus fan theories about book 6 👀

Is 'ACOTAR' a BookTok famous series?

Amazon

BookTok is the reason we love the ACOTAR series so much. All it takes is a quick search on TikTok to see how many fan theories, memes, and hot takes exist within its realm. Have an intense dislike for the way Feyre's siblings failed her after their mother died? There's a video for that. Want to see hilarious depictions of the Suriel? You won't be disappointed!

But, I've never read anything in the series? What's it about? 

We thought you'd never ask! A Court of Thorns and Roses introduces readers to the thin line that separates humankind from the mythical world, but boundaries are crossed when a young woman named Feyre unknowingly commits a grave offense. As her family's only hope for survival, she slays a wolf who happens to be a close friend of one of the many high fae in ACOTAR.

As repayment for her "terrible" deed, she's whisked away from everything she knows to live the rest of her life in the spring court. But Feyre soon learns that politics and evil aren't just relegated to humans because she's subject to torment that turns her into what's she still trying to understand.

Throughout each book, we watch as Feyre comes to grips with who she thought she could trust, her perception of herself, and the consequences of each choice she makes.

Knowing this, what will ACOTAR book 6 be about? 

Don't panic, but ACOTAR'ssixth book doesn't have a plot yet! The only sliver of hope we have stems from Sarah J. Maas' appearance on the TODAY show last year. She said, "I know much more about what’s happening in this one. And then the next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them.”

Has Sarah J. Maas shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6? 

Sorry, but she hasn't shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6 either! The TODAY show speculates "readers will have to wait a year or two" which makes sense.

What theories do fans have about the next book? 

Fans believe Sarah J. Maas dropped a massive hint about what to expect in her collab video with Spotify last year. Instagram user @just.innis wrote, "Hear me out: spilled the tea, spring, two rings on the same fingers (rose and blue), flowers and doors behind her, "a looong book" ("...Azriel’s wings are the biggest." if you know what I mean), soon... 👀📚🤯."

If you're not familiar, E! News reported this could be an indication that Feyre's sister Elain and Azriel, one of Rhysand's right-hand-men, will get the love story fans have been waiting for. Most fans are in agreement because this Reddit thread dives deeper into the potential lore. @plantsandanimalsdude wrote, "I think …. Elain will decide to reject her mating bond and choose Azriel, taking control over her life after losing her humanity and engagement to a man SHE chose."

A separate Reddit thread starts off with a belief ACOTAR book 6 will be a follow-up to Nesta's story (Feyre and Elain's eldest sister). User@PrestigiousFun782wrote, "...it's pretty clear that Nesta's plot is not done yet. For that my theory is that she will learn a lot about her powers and maybe she would leave the night court..."

However, nothing's set in stone. The only thing Sara J. Maas promised is that ACOTAR book 6 is "going to be a long book."

OMG, I want to catch up on ACOTAR! Where do I start?

Amazon

  • A Court of Thorns and Roses(Book One) — An introduction to Feyre, the high faes, and danger!
  • A Court of Mist and Fury(Book Two) — An exploration of Feyre's conflicted feelings about marrying Tamlin, her growing understanding of Rhysand, and an even darker evil
  • A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book Three) — A tale of 'sleeping with the enemy' to gain important intel that'll save Feyre's new home, albeit with damning consequences that changes everything
  • A Court of Frost and Starlight (Book Four) — A story of rebuilding and healing after mass devastation
  • A Court of Silver Flames (Book Five) — A close look at Nesta Acheron's journey as she learns to accept who she is, how she'll spend the rest of her life, and who she'll come to love

Follow us on Facebook for more updates about ACOTAR book 6!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.