The season of dark nights, pumpkin spice, and orange leaves on the ground is back. One of the most popular seasons, fall, is here.
Here is a summary of everything you need for this fall season.
The fall aesthetic
For many, autumn is more than just a season; it captures an authentic aesthetic and feeling that people look forward to each year. The distinctive autumn leaves and dark nights, paired with homemade pies, hot chocolate, and cosy nights at home, truly make it the season of comfort that people long for each year.
Why do we love fall?
Routine
Maybe it’s the timing of fall, the start of a new academic year, and job season, which symbolises a fresh start and a return to routine. Psychologist Sanam Hafeez explained why fall is so comforting for many:
”During the summer, people tend to travel for vacation and have less predictable schedules. Once fall starts, most people resume their everyday routines, making it easier for friends to get together and socialize. There is a comfortable routine that this season brings”
After the summer season, dedicated to holidays, relaxation and sunshine. People start to crave the return of a routine brought to us by the fall season. The remaining warmth of the air mixed with the crisp beginning of fall, makes for the perfect return to a structure we probably all crave.
Nostalgia
We all feel the difference when autumn settles in. As autumn rolls around, the heat from summer slowly turns to crisp air accompanied by autumn leaves. You feel the difference as you walk your usual route home. The walk may be the same, but the space around you is different. The changes always remind you of a new season, but with old traditions to reminisce on. Dr. Sharma says:
”It is also argued that it could be a way for those who are older, to tap into their younger self and forget about the responsibilities of adulthood.”
We are always trying to recreate the cosy atmosphere that autumn brings through candles, decorations, and trinkets, in part to help us feel nostalgic for a sense of the past and what we did in our childhood.
The perfect fall TV and movies
We all need a few films to get us ready for autumn; movies that capture the sense of a new season, change, and make us feel hopeful for the upcoming season. Here are a few favourites that will make you feel ready for fall.
Gilmore Girls
Starting with a fall classic is the iconic series Gilmore Girls. Set in the early 2000s, Gilmore Girls explores the relationship of a mother and daughter in a cosy small town in New England. Stars Hollow and its beautiful fall aesthetic always get me ready for the autumn and winter season.
The arrival of fall marks the start of a new cycle of viewers rewatching Gilmore Girls, with fans awaiting the autumn to catch up on the show.
This show proves how TV and film can carry longevity and comfort for decades. Gilmore Girls first debuted in 2000, and its resurgence on Netflix has brought warmth and comfort to a new generation of audiences.
When Harry Met Sally
If you’re seeking a feel-good rom-com that also reminds you of fall, When Harry Met Sally is the perfect choice for you. Set in New York City, it follows friends whose lives continually intertwine over the years and the seasons of life. The beautiful fall landscape in New York City remains the same over the years, with continuous shots of Harry and Sally walking amongst the foliage. This film is perfect for the colder seasons, a beautiful love story that embodies the comfort and warmth the fall season brings.
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Directed by Wes Anderson, this animated film captures the autumn atmosphere with its warm colour palette. The orange, yellow, and brown colours are predominantly used to depict the family of foxes who have to move home after years of settlement and uproot their fall harvesting. Originally released around Thanksgiving, Wes Anderson captures the visuals of autumn, mixed with the warmth of family and growth, making it a must-watch this fall.
Good Will Hunting
Another New England-based and fall-set movie, perfect for this season, is Good Will Hunting. Starring Matt Damon and Robin Williams, the film follows a close mentorship between a struggling young cleaner at a university, who gets discovered by a professor for his academic abilities. The themes of self-discovery, coming of age, and guidance contribute to this moving drama, accompanied by the film’s breathtaking scenery.
Autumn fashion staples
The season of knitwear, boots, and dark colours is here. Getting to layer your outfits with jumpers and cardigans before the harsh winter cold sets in is really the season of transition. Below are some fashion staples you need in your closet this upcoming fall.
Trench coats
Trench coats repeatedly come in and out of style. Whether long and traditional or more of a cropped style, autumn 2025 is definitely embracing them. They’re available from most high street fashion shops, often slightly more expensive but worth it in terms of quality and duration.
Slouchy jumpers
Perfect for dressing up or down any outfit in your autumn wardrobe, oversized jumpers and knitwear are definitely needed to keep you warm in the transition from autumn to winter. TikTok shop offers several affordable autumn jumpers in various colours and styles, keeping you warm and stylish this autumn.
Patterned tote bags
One of my essentials for the autumn season is a patterned tote bag. With cute options from Damson Madder and Anthropologie, you can make sure you have a stylish bag to hold everything you need for work or school.
Fall food to make at home
One of people’s favourite parts of fall is the homemade sweet treats to distract us from the cold outside. Getting in the kitchen and making something from scratch is a great way to prepare for the upcoming season and holidays.
Cinnamon rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a classic autumn staple loved by everyone. I crave the warm cinnamon bun topped with vanilla frosting all year round, but especially in autumn. Several tutorials online show you how to perfect this fall treat.
Pumpkin spice-everything
The flavour of the year for many is pumpkin spice, to put on anything and everything. Each year, Starbucks and other coffee shops rerelease their pumpkin spice flavour for coffee with much anticipation. A pumpkin spice latte is the ultimate drink to order in autumn.
Snack mix
Seen all over TikTok are snack mixes, where people find cute tins and mix various sweets, chocolates, and popcorn. Super easy to make at home, and perfect for film nights with friends and family. These cute snack mixes are often themed and match each season.
To conclude…
Whether you’re a fan of fall or not, you can’t deny the cosiness and warmth the season brings, whether through food, fashion, or film and TV. Until Christmas, social media will be filled with creators sharing their favourite autumnal habits and trends. Embrace everybody’s favourite season and participate in activities that make you feel autumnal.
