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HALLOSREAM

I’m an interior designer – the decorations which scream ‘tacky’… and it’s bad news if you love inflatables

IT'S October, which means it’s the season to get spooky – it’s Halloween of course.

Halloween month often allows people to enjoy a myriad of trends and decorations, along with spooky reruns on TV as it starts to chill outside.

Interior designer Zara O'Hare has revealed which Halloween decorations make you look tacky
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Interior designer Zara O'Hare has revealed which Halloween decorations make you look tackyCredit: Getty images

However, not all Halloween trends bring the spook factor and can end up looking tacky.

To help you navigate the treacherous waters of spooky aesthetics, Zara O’Hare, interior designer at , has compiled a guide on Halloween decorations you should avoid at all costs.

Ditch Faux Materials and Anything Covered in Glitter

It's time to call time on glittery garlands according to Zara
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It's time to call time on glittery garlands according to ZaraCredit: Getty images

It’s time to hang up the glitter, at least until Christmas time.

“One of the cardinal sins of Halloween decorating is overindulging in faux materials and anything covered in glitter. 

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While glitter may add a touch of sparkle, it can quickly turn your spooky setup into a garish mess.

Faux materials like plastic skeletons, fake cobwebs and synthetic spider webs can make your decorations look cheap and inauthentic,” recommends the expert. 

Steer Clear of Anything That Makes Loud Noises

Loud noises as part of your Halloween set may be tempting, but very quickly cross the line from spooky to obnoxious. 

Screeching sound machines, heckling witches, or loud, repetitive music can be more of an annoyance than a source of fright – let’s not bewitch our neighbours for eternity.

Inflatable Garden Decor Is a Big No-No

Inflatable Halloween Props and Decorations distract from the spooky ambience you're trying to create
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Inflatable Halloween Props and Decorations distract from the spooky ambience you're trying to createCredit: Getty images

If you’re in the UK, inflatable garden decor in October should already sound like a pretty worthless decision.

“While some inflatables can be charming, they often lean towards the tacky side. 

Oversized inflatable pumpkins, ghosts, and zombies can quickly detract from the spooky ambience you're trying to create. 

They’re also likely to end up drifting into your neighbour's garden or further afield,” says the expert.

Stick to the Classics and Natural Elements

Natural elements make for a classier display
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Natural elements make for a classier displayCredit: Getty images

Try to embrace the timeless charm of classic Halloween elements, by carving real pumpkins with intricate designs or traditional faces to line your front steps.

Hang out in nature and find cornstalks and dark leaves to drape around your door frame. 

Consider Something Interactive

Make your Halloween display memorable and engaging
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Make your Halloween display memorable and engagingCredit: Getty images

If you're looking to make your Halloween display memorable and engaging, consider something interactive that your guests and visitors can get involved with.

Instead of inflatable decorations, think about creating a maze or corn pit in your garden.

A spooky labyrinth is bound to get your quests in the mood.

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