The weather warning I received before embarking on my first semester in St Andrews was one of severe hailing gales and blinding fog. Umbrellas and hood’s were futile I was told, against raindrops being pushed and pulled by strong winds swept into St Andrews straight from the North Sea. However, from the experience of my first few weeks, the rain and wind appear to have become shy, leaving the biting cold for us to enjoy.
Though some might cry out that this is the worst weather to remain, I absolutely love it. Where one might see minus numbers on a weather forecast, I see an opportunity for autumnal fashion to be showcased. It is this time of year that the open pumps are to be put away, the Chelsea boots to be found, and the glorious knitted scarf to be wrapped around our necks to protect our pinkened ears.
The key to battling the looming dark evenings and falling leaves is to compete with stylish autumnal charm; layers upon layers of greens and browns, from Missoni inspired printed jumpers, to worn looking parka jackets. Autumn is a time where fading summer tans can be hidden with thick woollen knitted tights, and toes warmed by fury socks made secret by a pair of Urban Outfitter Atlanta Weller boots.
For the first time since lounging on a summer beach, headgear can be a rational addition to an outfit. With a knit bowler hat or even a warm faded patterned headscarf looking not only a practical precaution to the cold, but also an originally stylish autumn find. For, according to Keats, “Autumn is the season for mists and fellow fruitfulness”; the mist will certainly descend upon St Andrews, however our autumnal fashion I am sure, will be ever fruitful.
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