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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at KU chapter.

Finally. The time has come for pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters. I don’t know about you, but fall is my favorite upon favorite season ever. Don’t get me wrong, the other seasons are great also, but this one tops them all. The cool weather, lovely colors, cute clothing, and overall good vibes helps to create the delightfulness which is autumn. Even the name is pretty. However, when fall is approaching, there are some things you need to truly live within the fall experience. 

            Now, don’t think you need all this stuff. This is just what I use to amplify the joy that autumn already brings. Fall is short, so you must enjoy it before it ends. So why not enjoy it with your all-time fall must haves.

            Cozy and Adorable Sweaters: I think sweaters are a complete necessity for the fall season. They are comfortable, warm, and always create a super cute, yet elevated outfit. Every time I wear one, I feel more engrossed in autumn. However, I know how expensive they can get so here are some tips for finding the perfect sweaters. Tip #1: Thrift. There are so many sweaters that thrift stores come by. You can find nice and luxurious sweaters for half the original price. Trust me, your bank account will be thanking you later. Tip #2: Don’t go overboard. You don’t need 50 sweaters. Have a few that you really love and pair it with different pants/shoes/accessories to make the outfit different. That’s what I love about sweaters. They are so versatile. Perfect must have for the fall season.

            Decorations: Okay, so I am a decoration queen. I will decorate for every holiday, season, event, etc., you name it. So, when it comes to fall, I go hardcore. I put plush/real pumpkins, autumn pillows and blankets, colorful leaf vines, a fall doormat, and even spooky decorations for Halloween all around my room. People walk in and it looks like a whole new place, and I am proud of that fact. It honestly just makes me feel good and sets the fall mood. Also, it is just a fun way to spend a day with friends and have fun. Put on some fall jams and get to decorating because I am sure that it will bring you joy just like it does for me.

            Accessories for the fall season: beanies, scarfs, boots, jewelry. Some of the other luxuries of the fall season. Like with the sweaters, these accessories can make your outfits pop and make you feel as confident as ever. Now, I know these are not a necessity by any means, but they sure can brighten up your mood and day. Tip #1: when it comes to scarves and beanies, buy more neutral colors. That way they can go with any and every piece of fall clothing. Make sure they keep you warm also! Those temperatures will keep dropping. Tip #2: You don’t need 5 pairs of boots. I know we want them, but our budget can’t handle that right now. I would say invest in a pair of quality, neutral colored, and comfortable boots. I don’t know about you but walking around campus in uncomfortable shoes is not the move. Tip #3: gold or rose gold jewelry. I am a silver girl myself, but gold just matches the fall vibe perfectly. Maybe throw in some Halloween jewelry in there too. Do whatever you feel comfortable with doing!

            Scents: So, this is very vague but also specific. Get. Those. Fall. Scents. Go to Bath and Body Works and buy the perfumes, candles, car scents, and hand soaps all in your most favorite autumn scents. Some of my favorites are:

  1. Leaves
  2. Sweet cinnamon pumpkin
  3. Sweater weather

Or literally anything with pumpkin, apple, or cinnamon. Gotta have that self care.

            Photoshoots and good vibes: Lastly, even if you don’t enjoy fall (which hurts my heart if you don’t, but it’s okay), you must admit it is absolutely stunning. The trees are blossoming with warm colors, leaves are all over, and cloudy skies with a bit of sun peeking through. This is fall! It is the perfect opportunity for a beautiful photoshoot. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A phone camera, friends, and yourself is really all you need. If you want to add cute outfits, props, etc. go ahead! Anything to have a fun fall day. Overall, these days bring good vibes. So of course, it is a must have! Here are some photoshoot ideas:

  1. A fall shoot (obvi)
  2. A spooky shoot
  3. Carving pumpkins shoot
  4. Friend shoot
  5. Close up leaf shoots
  6. Throwing leaves
  7. Family shoot

Also, some of the best photos are when people least expect it! They are so pretty and natural. Just like fall! So go out, grab some friends, and spend the fall day with photoshoots and good vibes.

            These must haves I would say are vague, but that is a good thing because you can put your own spin on it! Be creative, and most importantly, just have fun with it—especially before that cold winter comes. Now, go enjoy the wonderful autumn weather and reach for the stars! ✨

Madison Swafford is on the writing team for Her campus at the University of Kansas chapter! She writes mostly opinionated articles dealing with life and culture. Beyond Her Campus, Madison works at the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence where she utilizes her creative mind to help behavioral children and design lessons for them. She is also getting involved in the University Daily Kansan. Madison is a sophomore at the University of Kansas studying multimedia journalism with a minor in psychology. In Madison's free time, she loves to sing and read. She loves trying new things and hanging out with friends. Her competitive nature makes everything a challenge and she enjoys writing creative stories whenever she has the time.