5 Winter Refresh Ideas for Your Home & Wardrobe — That Don’t Cost a Penny

We often feel hesitant—or even a little guilty—about spending time or energy refreshing our homes or wardrobes when life feels chaotic or money is tight. Especially in times of uncertainty, it can feel indulgent to rearrange a room or spend time curating an outfit. But here's a gentle reminder: your home is your sanctuary, and the way you dress is part of your self-expression. Feeling comforted, grounded, and uplifted in your surroundings—and in your skin—is not frivolous, it’s vital.

Here are five completely free ways to refresh your interiors for winter or update your wardrobe to keep your style aligned with the season and your joyful sense of self.

In Your Home

1. Drape it Up: Layer Throws, Blankets & Sheepskins
You probably already have a few throws or blankets tucked away—this is the time to bring them out. Layer them over sofas, ottomans, or armchairs to add texture and warmth. Even an old scarf or fabric scrap can become a comforting layer when artfully placed. Sheepskins are so effective in bringing warmth and a cocooning effect that invites relaxation. These tactile additions make your space feel lived-in and loved. If you don’t own a sheep skin ( and sorry, vegan friends) put it on the wishlist for next winter as it is a timeless investment and their health properties are huge.

2. Warm Up Your Colour Palette
You don’t need new cushions or curtains to adapt your palette for winter. Simply switch around what you already own—perhaps move deeper-toned cushions from one room to another, or group earthy ceramics or darker-toned books together to create a seasonal vignette. Focus on adding warmer tones—like rust, ochre, or deep forest greens—that still harmonize with your home's existing colour story. Texture is your best friend here: mix wool, velvet, and chunky knits. On the other hand, you might be one of those who desperately need colour in Winter, so go through everything colourful you have in your home and create pop of colours that tell your story.

3. Forage & Dry for a Statement Winter Arrangement
If you dried flowers, seedpods, or grasses during the summer or autumn, now’s the time to display them. Use tall branches, dried hydrangeas, or even foraged winter greenery to create a wild and sculptural arrangement. Place them in a big jug or ceramic pot for impact. This kind of arrangement brings nature indoors and reminds us of the cycles of the seasons. In South Africa, Proteas are such a great Winter flowers. Did you know you can keep them longer by adding less water to your vases, and ultimately keep them in without water for an extra few weeks?

4. Candlelight Clusters: Set the Winter Mood
Gather all the candles, lanterns, and tealight holders you already own and group them together. A cluster of candles in varying heights creates a magical glow that warms a room instantly. Position your collection in a fireplace, on a dining table, or in a forgotten corner for soft, ambient light. Don’t underestimate the emotional lift of candlelight—it’s an ancient comfort.

5. Create a Personal Winter Retreat
Rearrange a forgotten corner into your personal nook. This can be your reading, journaling, or meditative space. All you need is a comfy chair, a side table (even a stool will do), and a table lamp or candle. Add something personal—like a book you love, a photo, or a cup and saucer you never use. This is your private winter "shrine"—a space just for you to pause and reconnect. The act of carving out this space is deeply nurturing. If you are like me I love burning incense, especially in Winter. It just brings the comforting warmth and smell that we crave.

In Your Wardrobe

1. Re-style Your Summer Pieces with Winter Layers
Think beyond the season labels. That cotton dress or linen tunic? Try layering it over a long-sleeve top, under a chunky knit, or even with tights and boots.(Wearing your gym leggings under a summer dress is a great way to bring some warmth as well).The contrast of fabrics and textures adds richness and interest. You may surprise yourself with unexpected combinations.

2. Host a Mini At-Home Try-On Session

Resist the temptation to always wear your lounging wear when you stay at home for the day! Yes, maybe it feels comfortable but it rarely makes us feel good about ourselves. Book a play date with yourself, put some music on and Play dress-up—but with intention. Go “shopping” in your own wardrobe. Pull out the pieces you haven’t worn in ages and challenge yourself to create three new outfits. Sometimes we overlook gems simply because we see them too often. Enjoy this creative process, pour yourself some tea and turn it into a winter styling ritual. Don’t forget to take pics of the outfits so you can recreate them easily.

3. Swap Accessories Between Rooms
That scarf you always wear outside? Try tying it to your bag handle or wrapping it around your hair or neck differently. Move belts, brooches, and even jewelry around between outfits you wouldn’t normally pair. These tiny shifts can completely change an outfit's energy.

4. Create a Seasonal Edit
Pull together a mini winter capsule from your existing wardrobe. Select 10-15 key pieces that feel warm, comfortable, and expressive. Place them at the front of your rail or folded in a basket. Getting dressed becomes easier—and more joyful—when your favourite seasonal items are readily visible and easy to access.

5. Reconnect With the Story Behind Your Clothes
Spend a moment with each piece—who gave it to you, where you wore it, what it reminds you of. This reflection can bring a sense of renewed appreciation and even inspire you to wear something again with new energy. Wearing clothes that hold meaning can warm us from the inside out. At the same time, if you come across some pieces that you have forgotten about but that really don’t bring any good feelings to you, it is time to let them go.

You don’t need to buy anything new to feel refreshed this winter. Sometimes, all it takes is rearranging what you already have, bringing a little intention to the way you dress, or creating space—physically and emotionally—for rest and reflection.

Winter invites us inward. Let’s accept that invitation with grace, creativity, and just a touch of candlelight.

✨ Need Help Curating Your Wardrobe or Your Home?

I offer personal styling and home consultations—virtually and in-person—starting at R1600. Whether you’re stuck in beige or afraid to mix things up, I’ve got you.
📩 Let’s ReStyle This, together.

With love,
HM aka The Re-Styler