It’s happening, ladies. Fall is upon us and as the leaves begin to change and the smell of Pumpkin Spice Lattes pervades every classroom and lecture hall, you may begin to notice that you’re experiencing symptoms of fall frenzy. What exactly is fall frenzy? Basically just the obsession with all things autumnal. It’s tracking down anything pumpkin shaped or scented, sipping on any and all fall-flavored drinks, and embarking on the exhausting plight of trying to capture the perfect apple-picking Insta. There in no cure for this seasonal phenomenon, so get ready for autumn to assault your senses, and prepare for the stages of fall frenzy.
1. The Return of Pumpkin Spice Lattes
This first stage occurs before fall has even officially started. By the end of August, the epitome of fall has returned in the form of the PSL. Lines form outside of Starbucks everywhere as people wait not-so-patiently for the sweet cinnamon warmth of the festive, fall drink. You will most likely find yourself following the crowd, not wanting to miss out on the opportunity to snap-story all that pumpkin spice.
2. Fall Decorations Hit the Stores
It’s not even mid-September by the time autumn-themed knick-knacks line the shelves of stores everywhere. No one can resist smelling every fall-scented candle, from Apple Cider to Pumpkin Waffles or Autumn Leaves. And you’ll inevitably want to buy every canvas sporting a cute fall phrase or every strand of pumpkin-shaped twinkly lights. Your fall-obsessed heart will thank you for stocking up on all these fall goodies, even if your debit card won’t.
3. Draining Your Bank Account on Pumpkin-Flavored Foods
Not only does Pumpkin Spice make an appearance in our lattes, but it also shows up in just about everything else we put in our mouths this time of year. Walk into any Whole Foods or Trader Joes and find everything you could ever imagine transformed into the season’s most beloved flavor. Of course, due to the FOMO, you will find yourself unable to resist purchasing most of these limited-edition products, stocking your fridge and snack drawers with too many fall treats to finish before the season ends.
4. Apple Picking Becomes the Ultimate Photo Shoot
If you didn’t go apple picking, and throw a picture up on social media, did fall even happen at all? Probably not. So, of course you will inevitably find yourself getting in a car, on a bus, heck even a train if that’s what it takes to get to the orchard. Don’t like apples? Doesn’t matter. All that matters is that you soaked up every bit of fall you can and got to the most autumn-esque locations imaginable.
5. Sweater Weather
There’s a reason The Neighbourhood wrote a song about it. Blanket scarves and chunky knit cardigans quickly become the staples of your wardrobe. As the autumn chill fills the air, and the summer heat melts into brisk, windy days, your sweaters are broken out of a long hiatus. Who doesn’t love a big comfy sweater, especially paired with boots and your fave infinity scarf, all tied together with that PSL in your hand? It’s the best time of the year, especially for your closet.
Once you’ve gone through every stage of fall frenzy, you may feel a bit distraught over the end of your favorite season. But not to worry, soon it’ll be time to put up the Christmas tree and frolic in the winter snow!