Despite the 80º weather, October has begun and spooky season is upon us! While it may sometimes not actually feel like fall, due to midterms and/or the unpredictable weather, there are still five things that never fail to get me in the fall spirit.
1. get something pumpkin flavored
Even though Starbucks’ fall menu dropped back in late August, it’s never too late to get yourself a treat this autumn. When in doubt, their pumpkin spice latte is a classic, with its signature espresso with pumpkin sauce, whipped cream, and pumpkin pie spices topping it off. There’s also the pumpkin cream shaken espresso, pumpkin cream chai, pumpkin cream matcha, and there’s even a pumpkin spice Frappuccino! Also, if you want something to eat, they have their pumpkin cream cheese muffin and pumpkin mini pie in the bakery. However, if you’re not a fan of pumpkin but still want a fall treat, a hot or iced chai latte, brown sugar oat milk shaken espresso, or cinnamon pull-apart still delivers the autumn vibes without the pumpkin flavor.
2. watch a comfort show
No matter the weather, fall is the perfect time to wrap yourself in a blanket and watch a comfort show. Of course, Gilmore Girls acts as a perfect default if you’re unsure of what to watch, giving the perfect mix of autumn, family, and the school motivation we all desperately need. However, if Gilmore Girls isn’t your thing, you should still find a pocket of time that you can devote to getting cozy and watching something you love.
3. Paint a Pumpkin
In the midst of the busyness of all that the fall semester of school has to dump on you, it’s important to find time to be with friends, and what better way to do that than painting a pumpkin?! Pumpkin painting can easily be done with full-sized or mini pumpkins and can also be a great outdoor activity, if it’s nice outside. You can also carve pumpkins, if you really want to get ready for Halloween, but painting might be a simpler activity. Or, if you really want, you can carve and paint your pumpkins!
4. craft your fall wardrobe
As the weather is changing, fall is the perfect time to go through your closet and add to your wardrobe! It’s finally time for cozy knit sweaters, baggy jeans, and our beloved denim and leather jackets we may have missed for too long. Also, try to add something new to your outfits this season, like a pair of boots, ballet flats, or a headband!
5. stock up on vanilla-scented items
While Starbucks is filled with their pumpkin-flavored snacks and beverages, it’s time to stock up on all of our favorite vanilla-scented body care! While Bath & Body Works acts as a literal haven for various scents of candles, body washes, body sprays, lotions, and everything else you can think of, I encourage you to try a new body care item this fall, whether it be the Phlur vanilla skin body fragrance or maybe even Frenshe’s cashmere vanilla line.