By Isabella Pizzimenti
“There’s nothing quite like autumn in New York. But it’s not only the leaves that change… something in the air brings out the true colors in everyone.”
A direct quote from the mysterious online persona known as “Gossip Girl”, who always knew how to stir the pot and create non stop drama. A thematic opening like this is just like a fresh start to this fall season. School begins again, pumpkin spice flavored everything and perfect time for resetting. Gossip Girl encapsulates a timeless and iconic time in tv history, with fashion, lifestyle and unforgettable characters. So, here are 7 ways to embrace this fall season, Gossip Girl edition.
- Fashion (on a budget)
Looking good does not mean having to spend thousands of dollars on a pair of shoes— but having this type of style is easier to come by then most people realize. In recent years, popular stores like H&M and Zara have come back in their business casual aspect, with hints of the late 2000s/ early 2010s vibe that we’ve all been craving lately. Other ways to find your dream style is look up outfit inspiration from the show! I can not tell you how many times I look at Serena and Blair’s outfits because they are just that chic/ classic style that I am in love with. Back when Gossip Girl was airing, it had so much influence in how teens dressed, bringing back the classy (and sometimes messy) aspect of life that was popular. Another great option for staying within a solid budget for great clothes is to go to a local thrift shop. There are plenty of amazing pieces of clothing that have been donated that are looking for new homes, and most of these clothes being from the 2000s is a reason to go anyway! These clothes typically last longer and are made from different materials so they are gentler on the skin. A final way to dress like you are from the upper east side is to accessorize with every outfit. The late 2000s/ early 2010s were notorious for layering literally everything, and jewelry is no different. One day, try to swap out your earrings, get a new necklace or stack your bracelets to elevate any look to that perfect Gossip Girl style.
- Embrace your Confidence
Now, this may seem like an interesting choice for a fall reset– but it is an important one! On the upper east side, Serena van der Woodsen is an it-girl because she carries herself with the confidence that lights up a room. Putting scandal aside, Serena is free spirited and an optimist when it comes to life, and she is not one to stray away from a challenge. To fully utilize your confidence (like Serena), start your day with 2-3 positive affirmations that you can say in the mirror. Another way to accomplish this is to start everyday with an open mindset. Everyday is a brand new day and a fresh start, so don’t stress. Also, remember, if you’re having a bad day, Serena van der Woodsen is probably having a worse one!
- Take time for yourself
One of the most important things to have a successful fall reset is to not forget to take time for yourself. If you’re in school, have work, or are doing both, things can get pretty hectic and stressful at times. But one of the most important things is remember that it is okay to take breaks and relax once in a while. For example, Blair Waldorf keeps a journal by her bedside that she writes in almost every day. This helps her get out her frustrations and allows her to plan out her days ahead. Along with this, Blair isn’t afraid to treat herself to a shopping spree, take a spa day or turn on a vintage movie.
Here are some examples of things you can do in your spare time!:
- Start writing in a Journal
- Watch one of Blair’s favorite movies: “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1964) or “Roman Holiday” (1953). Or a movie that takes place in the fall like “When Harry Met Sally” (1989), or “Serendipity ” (2001)
- Read a new book/ grab a classic off the shelf (like Dan Humphrey)
- Go into a local cafe for some downtime and vibey music (chain cafes are out, and vibey coffee shops are in!)
- Beauty Secrets
A brand new season means trying brand new things! Try out a new makeup routine, or look up a tutorial for that classic brown smokey eye that has been trending again. A lot of the makeup in Gossip Girl truly embraces each character’s features and personality. For example, the queen of the upper east side Blair Waldorf has a very polished, elegant and prestigious look. She mainly goes for a neutral to darker defining eyeshadow and a pink/ nude lip. Serena on the other hand has a very glowy and effortless look, having a lightly defined eye with a sunkissed glossy/ clear lip to finish. Stop following trends, and embrace your natural beauty! You don’t have to feel obligated for a full face of makeup everyday, but don’t shy away from feeling your best.
- Listen to new Music
Gossip Girl is not just known for its fashion, but its unforgettable soundtrack. To go full Gossip Girl style, pull out your old wired earbuds and rediscover your favorite 2000s hits.
Here’s some songs from the official Gossip Girl Soundtrack to get you started:
- Young Folks – By Peter Bjorn and John
- What goes around // Comes around – By Justin Timberlake
- Whatcha say – By Jason Durulo (if you know, you know)
- Say (All I Need) – By One Republic
- I Melt with You – By Modern English
- A Digital Detox
What a time it was in the late 2000s before social media took over, and had us all in a frenzy to try and figure out what happened over the weekend. Now, everything is handed to us as soon as we open our phones. In the universe of Gossip Girl, the only form of “social media” was the blog itself, along with characters calling and texting. To fully achieve a Gossip Girl fall, make plans with your friends and turn off your phone for a while. This step can apply to anything in life. Less screen time means less stress and pressure from others, and also eases your mind which can improve mental health. There is so much distraction today, and it seems like no one truly knows how to stay in the moment anymore. By having a digital detox, this allows for meaningful in person conversations, and can even improve relationships with others. Taking breaks from your phone is important, and if your parents did it you can too!
- Have an unforgettable Thanksgiving/ Friendsgiving
Finally, it would not be a Gossip Girl fall without a drama filled Thanksgiving. Gossip Girl is notorious for its flare for the dramatics (especially around the holidays) and Thanksgiving is no different. Whether it’s your first Thanksgiving with your boyfriend who’s dad happens to be your mom’s ex-fling, your father trying to kidnap you and your mother for ransome or having a secret affair with your ex flings cousin (cue Whatcha Say), there’s no situation that Gossip Girl hasn’t covered (hopefully). Yes, these things actually happened in the show.
And as a wonderful bonus, here are some of the most iconic fall episodes to rewatch!:
- Season 1 episode’s 6, 7, 8 & 9.
- Season 2 episodes 8, 10, 11.
- Season 3 episodes 8 & 11.
- Season 4 episodes 8, 9 & 10.
- Season 5 Episode 7 & 10
- Season 6 Episode 8
Remember if you’re feeling stressed, you are able to use this season as your full factory reset. So, take this as your sign to watch– or rewatch— Gossip Girl this fall!
“You know you love me, xoxo,
Gossip Girl”