Spring Refresh: 10 Easy Home Updates for Women Over 40 (We’ve Seen Some Things and Still Have Great Taste)

Let’s talk about spring decor…

Spring has sprung, the birds are chirping, the pollen is plotting your downfall, and your home? Well, your home might be silently screaming for a little zhuzh. We’re not talking a full HGTV-level renovation—nobody has the time, budget, or emotional bandwidth for that. We’re talking simple, easy, instant gratification updates that’ll make your space feel like it just came back from a retreat in Sedona (the location, not the problematic basketball player).

And because you’re a woman over 40, you know the value of a strong eyebrow, a good linen spray, and not wasting your Saturday repainting the baseboards. So here you go—10 easy, chic, grown-woman-approved ways to give your home that spring glow-up.

Switch Out Your Throw Pillow Covers

Listen, we are not buying more throw pillows—this isn’t your first rodeo and you already have 37 in storage. But you can swap the covers. Go lighter, brighter, maybe even a floral if you’re feeling a little “Bridgerton but with better boundaries”, or word on the street is we’re in for a Rococo Revival. Linen, cotton, and washed canvas scream spring without trying too hard.

Swap the Scent

That cozy winter candle that smells like a lumberjack’s sweater? Love that for you in December. But now? It’s time for something crisp. Think citrus, herbs, or a bougie fig situation that makes guests say, “Ooooh what is that?” even if “guests” is just your UPS person.

Bring in Fresh (or Fake) Greens

Nothing says “spring decor” like greenery! And you don’t need to be a full-on Plant Lady, but a little greenery goes a long way. Snag a new houseplant, a cute little herb for the kitchen, or even a high-quality fake that won’t judge you when you forget to water it for two months. It’s 2025 and there are some great faux options that won’t make your home look like a waiting room. Somewhat related, I’ve killed three different succulent terrariums in 2025 alone and I need help from someone with a green-ish thumb.

Rearrange a Room

No money spent, just vibes. Move your armchair to the other side of the room. Angle the bed differently. Swap artwork from one room to another. For a little while it might feel like you’re on vacation and Jeopardy comes on at Wheel of Fortune time, but you’ll adjust.

Switch to Lighter Bedding

Time to retire that flannel duvet cover, babe. Bring in a light cotton or linen quilt in a soft pastel or a calming neutral. Bonus points for a crisp white set that gives “spa weekend where no one asks you to find their soccer cleats.”

Edit Your Open Shelves

If your shelves look like a yard sale and a Pinterest board had a baby, it’s time for a refresh. Take everything off, wipe it down (because dust is rude), and put things back with intention. Add a springy candle, a small stack of colorful books, a bowl of lemons if you’re in your Ina Garten era (notice I did not say Shannon Storms Beador).

Add a Pop of Color

Disclaimer, I think “add a pop of color” is in general the laziest tip you can give, but here we are. And I’m not saying you have to repaint your walls (unless you’re spiraling and need the distraction), but one colorful lamp, rug, or piece of art can totally transform a space. Maybe something coral, sage green, or even chartreuse if you’re feeling bold and a little chaotic.

Create a “Spring Nook” Just for You

A little corner with a cozy chair, a new throw, a good lamp, and a stack of magazines or that book you swear you’re going to read. This is your spring sanctuary. A place to sip coffee, plan vacations you’ll never take, confirm your high school bully is still knee-deep in an MLM pyramid scheme, fill up online shopping carts, or hide from your family for 10 minutes; whatever brings joy.

Final Thoughts (aka A Pep Talk from Your Decor Fairly Oddmother):

You don’t have to Marie Kondo your whole house to feel that fresh spring energy. You just need a few intentional changes that make you smile when you walk through the door. Remember: this is the era of curating comfort, not chasing trends. You’ve earned a home that reflects how amazing you are—smart, stylish, and slightly allergic to clutter.

So go forth and fluff a pillow, light a grapefruit candle, and maybe—just maybe—buy that ceramic bunny at HomeGoods. You know the one.

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