The parks are scattered with golden leaves which crunch under foot, coffee shops have struck iced drinks from their menus and the sunlight comes later and leaves sooner. Autumn is here.
With long summer days having reached their end, it’s time to huddle up with a cosy blanket and embrace the autumn months. There are plenty of things you can do to make your home feel more autumnal, from the addition of cosy blankets and spiced scented candles, to stocking your cupboards with cold-weather essentials like hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Autumn is also a turning point for our wardrobes, with strappy sandals being swapped for long leather boots and denim jackets traded for thick, woollen peacoats. Here are some essentials to prepare you and your home for the new season.
Make your home feel cosy
With summer firmly behind us it’s time to introduce a touch of autumn to your home décor. As the weather changes, we tend to spend more time in our homes, and likely on our sofas. Add a soft throw for burrowing under when the nights get colder and make your sofa especially comfy with a few extra cushions.
The addition of some scented candles can really change the atmosphere of a room. Swap the fresh citrus scents of summer for something deeper and richer. Cinnamon or pumpkin spice would bring an autumnal feel to your home.
Bring back winter clothing
Autumn is the time to bring your oversized jumpers and fluffy slippers out of hibernation. Stay warm through the cold nights with cosy women’s nightwear, soft bed socks and an extra-thick blanket to snuggle into.
Embrace autumn fashion with trench coats, beanies, and buttery-soft leather boots. Invest in a pair of leather gloves to keep your hands warm as we prepare for winter. They might be a bit more expensive, but they will ensure your fingers are toasty while looking sleek and stylish.
Stock the cupboards
Load your cupboards up with food to keep you warm and satisfied. Forget summer salads and burgers, this is the time for hearty stews, homemade soups, and comforting pasta dishes.
As you’re spending more time at home, you may want to have friends and family over for dinner, rather than going out to eat. Look online for seasonal dishes to make or ask your guests to bring a plate of food to share pot-luck style.
You will probably already have a good stock of tea and coffee but consider seasonal favourites like chai lattes, hot chocolate, and marshmallows. After a long walk out in the cold there’s nothing better than settling down on the sofa with a blanket and a hot cocoa!