– Daniella
As we flit to and fro from lessons like falling leaves across the school campus, we smile as the Parade Square trees exchange their viridescent colours for red and gold. Even as the rains fall harder and the winds grow colder, we smile despite our slight discomfort, just to watch the world transform into something more otherworldly, more enchanting. Even if you might not be a fan of the season, you’re sure to know someone who does. But what is it that makes autumn so beloved?
On the surface, it’s easy to see what people find attractive. We love strolling through peaceful, pumpkin-coloured forests, sipping gingerbread and cinnamon-themed drinks, wearing the cosiest things we can find. We hear the fading birdsong chirps, the wind whistling in the treetops, the leaves crunching beneath our feet. As each day goes on, we look forward to the Harvest Festival and finally, finally, the beginning of half term. But there’s much more to autumn than just what we see and hear.
Fall is a symbol of new beginnings, new journeys in life, and new life. Things that create, if only temporarily, a structure that helps us to see the world in a new light. Starting a new year at school. The stakes are higher than before, everyone seems to have changed, and everything feels so much different. Research proves that, as human beings of habit, we’re significantly more motivated to actually get things done when we reach landmarks (regardless of the effort it takes to do that!) Ever felt excited at the start of a month, because you know (at least, you hope) that by the end, somehow you’ll emerge better than before? As we adjust to the routines we abandoned just a few months ago for the summer, we fall into a peaceful cycle of balance, stability, and comfort.
Autumn’s charm, however, extends far beyond our emotional associations; it’s woven into the UK and the world’s cultural traditions, with events including Bonfire Night (UK), Halloween (worldwide), Día de los Muertos (Mexico City), and the Harvest Festival (worldwide). These are celebrations that bring people together for similar reasons- remembering old memories, centuries-old traditions, allowing us to bring together our friends and families along the way.
Fashion’s also a key role in autumn’s appeal. Our wardrobes shift towards universally loved, aesthetic favourites- cozy jumpers and coats, scarves and hats, neutral colours that blend easily with nature. Comfort and practicality over what might look best because hey, it’s autumn! It invites self-expression and experimenting- it’s a season to be a new you, a new person. A feeling more and more people are beginning to cherish. Social media platforms scream with all sorts of outfit inspirations and cottagecore aesthetics, romanticising tips and cute recipes to try out, new things to do. Everywhere we look, inspiration and opportunity is waiting to be found.
Autumn is a season beckoning with warmth, comfort, and rich traditions- from the many autumnal events awaiting us, the delicious food or even the company the season encourages to keep- a sweet little bubble of bliss before winter’s everlasting chill.