Vases aren’t just for flowers. In fact, some of the best decorative vase ideas don’t involve a single petal. Whether you’ve got a favourite ceramic piece or a big statement vase sitting empty in the corner, there are lots of creative ways to style them without reaching for a bouquet.
Maybe you’re after something that lasts longer than fresh blooms, or you just want a different look. Either way, this guide is packed with vase filler ideas that’ll help you make the most of your vases, big or small.
From natural textures to seasonal touches, we’ve got plenty of inspiration to get you started.
Why Style a Vase Without Flowers?
Fresh flowers are lovely, but they’re not always practical. They wilt, they need replacing, and sometimes they just don’t fit the look you’re going for. That’s where styling a vase without flowers really comes into its own.
Using other decorative elements lets you get more creative, and it often lasts longer too. It’s also a great option if you want something low-maintenance, have allergies, or just prefer a more minimal or modern vibe at home. Plus, it opens up loads of possibilities for mixing textures, colours and shapes in ways flowers can’t always offer.
Whether you’re dressing a console table or trying to fill an awkward space on a shelf, thinking beyond flowers gives you more freedom to play with your style. And if you’ve got a large floor vase you’ve never quite known what to do with, we’ve got ideas for that too.
Our Top Decorative Vase Ideas Without Flowers
Here are some easy and creative ways to style your vases using simple fillers, natural textures and everyday items you might already have around the house.
1. Natural Elements: Stones, Pebbles and Branches
Nature is full of beautiful textures that work brilliantly in vases. Try filling a clear vase with smooth pebbles or stones, or even layering sand and shells for a coastal look. Twigs, curly willow, or a bundle of dried branches add height and shape, especially in tall vases.
These fillers are great if you’re after a more organic, earthy feel. Plus they last forever.
2. Seasonal Fillers
One of the easiest ways to update your vase decor is by switching it up with the seasons. Think pinecones, dried orange slices or mini baubles at Christmas, and faux moss, eggs or pastel ornaments in spring.
It’s a simple way to keep things fresh without buying new decor every time the weather changes. Plus, seasonal styling works well in both small decorative vases and large statement pieces.
3. Rolled Pages, Scrolls or Paper Elements
For something a bit different, try rolling up old book pages or sheet music and stacking them neatly in a glass vase. It gives a soft, vintage feel and works especially well with neutral or rustic interiors.
It’s also a great filler if you want something subtle but still interesting to look at. This one works perfectly in studies.
4. Fairy Lights or Candles
Pop a string of battery-operated fairy lights into a clear vase and you’ve got instant ambience. You can also use LED pillar candles for a cosy glow, especially during darker evenings.
This filler idea works really well for mantlepieces, shelves or side tables where you want a bit of soft light.
5. Textiles: Rope, Yarn or Fabric Scraps
Soft materials like chunky yarn, natural rope or even scrunched-up linen can be tucked into vases to add texture. It’s an unexpected choice, but it works surprisingly well, especially in modern, boho or coastal-style spaces.
Try sticking to one colour palette for a more pulled-together look.
Large Floor Vase Decor Ideas
Big vases can make a bold statement, but they’re not always the easiest to style, especially without flowers. Here are a few large floor vase decor ideas to help you fill that empty corner or hallway and make it look intentional, not forgotten.
1. Oversized Twigs or Bamboo Stems
Tall, sculptural branches or bamboo can instantly elevate a space. They’re great for adding height and drama without being too fussy. Try arranging a few thick stems in a ceramic or stone vase for a minimalist, modern look. Stick to odd numbers for a more natural feel.
2. Faux Pampas Grass or Tall Grasses
If you’re after something soft and textured, pampas grass is a brilliant filler for floor vases. Faux options look just as good as the real thing and won’t shed everywhere. Mix a few stems in muted tones like beige or soft pink to create an on-trend, boho feel.
3. Umbrellas, Walking Sticks or Canes
This one’s practical and stylish, especially for entryways. A wide floor vase makes the perfect home for umbrellas or vintage walking canes. It keeps things tidy while adding a bit of personality and charm to the space.
4. Tall Dried Flowers or Seed Pods
If you want a more natural, slightly wild look, try tall dried elements like protea, honesty stems or lotus pods. They add shape and interest without the need for water or upkeep, and they work well in both modern and rustic settings.
5. Layered Filler: Stones at the Base + Feature Stems
For something more styled, start with a base layer of stones, pebbles or sand, then add tall filler on top, like branches, twigs or faux leaves. It adds depth and texture while keeping everything nicely in place.
Vase Styling Tips
Once you’ve picked what to put in your vase, how you style it can make all the difference. Whether it’s a small accent on a shelf or a large floor vase in the hallway, here are a few simple tips to help you pull the look together.
1. Mix Heights and Shapes
If you’re displaying more than one vase, go for different heights and shapes to keep things interesting. Odd numbers usually work best, think sets of three in varying sizes.
2. Balance Colour and Texture
If your vase filler is quite bold or colourful, pair it with a simple, neutral vase so it doesn’t feel too busy. On the flip side, a patterned or textured vase might only need something subtle like twigs or dried grasses to shine.
3. Think About Placement
The spot you choose makes a big difference. A tall vase looks great on the floor in a corner, next to a console table or even beside a fireplace. Smaller ones work well on bookshelves, bedside tables or grouped on a dining table.
4. Don’t Overfill
It’s tempting to cram a vase full of stuff, but sometimes less is more. Let the shape of the vase and the space around it do some of the work. A few carefully chosen items can have much more impact than a packed arrangement.
5. Switch It Up Seasonally
You don’t need to change your whole room every few months, but swapping out vase fillers can be an easy way to refresh your decor. Think autumn leaves, Christmas ornaments, spring greenery, whatever suits the season.
Shop the Look
Ready to bring your vase styling ideas to life? Here are a few of our favourite vases to help you get started. From sleek modern pieces to rustic, nature-inspired finds, we’ve got something to suit every style.
There are so many creative ways to style a vase without flowers. Whether you’re using natural textures, seasonal elements, or tall statement fillers, vases can easily become one of the most versatile decor pieces in your home.
So if you’ve got a vase sitting empty, or you’re eyeing up a new one, don’t wait for fresh flowers to give it purpose. Play around with different fillers, switch things up for the seasons and most importantly, have fun with it.
Need a new vase to get started? Browse our collection of beautiful vases to find the perfect match for your space.
