Tuesday 22 October 2013

Guest Post: Huffpost

Five things to get excited about this autumn

The flip flops have been stored away and your tan is fading fast, but there's no need to mourn the passing of summer. From cosy fires to a whole new look, here are five reasons why we're excited about the coming months.
Natural high
Nothing lifts your spirits like a walk under gold, red and orange autumn leaves. Our beautiful countryside is transformed into a stunning colourful landscape that begs to be enjoyed after a Sunday roast. Getting fresh air will combat the winter blues and desire to hibernate, and kicking fallen leaves is not solely for the under 12's - that crunch is a guilty pleasure to us all!
New term, new look
You might not need to buy a pencil case and shiny school shoes any more, but we all recognise that fresh feeling that September brings. The new school year prompts a change in style and attitude at any age. Been meaning to learn a new skill? Enrol on a course for the autumn term. Try a different hair colour to compliment the dusky tones of your autumn/winter clothes. Speaking of which, no one can resist updating their wardrobe at this time of year, so whether you want heels, flats or fleecy styles, check out this season's must-have ladies' boots.  
Knitwear and opaque tights
Baggy knits and colourful cashmere smooth over all our lumps n' bumps, while thick tights will keep your legs warm so you can work that favourite floral tea dress all season long.
Log fires
A BBQ is great but there's nothing like snuggling up under a blanket and watching the flames of a log fire. Peaceful, meditative and definitely romantic, a roaring flame is the perfect accompaniment to a good book or an excuse to visit your local pub for a rainy afternoon. As if that weren't enough, you can also look forward to the fireworks and fun of Bonfire Night!
Filling food
Gone are the days of a light salad for lunch: embrace seasonal root vegetables by making homemade soups and stews, and sink into comforting classics like toad in the hole, sausage n' mash and pies for pudding and main. The dark evenings and dropping temperatures demand lengthy meals to warm us from the inside, so gather your loved ones and tuck in to tasty treats.