An Ode to Fall
My favorite season of them all
Written by Maddy Scharrer, Online Editor
When colorful leaves blanket the sidewalk, crisp air wakes you up in the morning and glimmering sunshine keeps you from catching too much of a chill, you know fall has arrived. Whether you’re strolling through the lakeshore path, admiring the reds, yellows and oranges of leaves dancing in the wind, or catching a perfect fall weekend at the Saturday morning Dane County Farmers’ Market, one thing is certain: fall is the most beautiful and inspiring season of them all.
I’ve always been entranced by fall and thought it was the perfect paradox — a season of new beginnings mixed with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Everything from the activities it offers to the fashion it inspires, fall is, in my opinion, truly in a league of its own. If you still need more convincing, allow me to highlight fall’s most entrancing traits.
Fashion
I would describe my ideal style as “cozy-cute” — thick, comfy sweaters, loose jeans or flowy pants and very cuddly socks. Fall fashion is the apex of this, allowing for outfits full of style and comfort. Sweaters and scarves, jackets and boots — early fall, especially, is the perfect time to pull out some of these fashion staples. The crisp weather during this time permits layers but isn’t too chilly yet; the perfect happy medium!
Fun
Once you’re fitted up in your cozy-cute attire, it’s time for some fall fun! There are so many fall festivities that are a blast — football games, haunted houses and trips to the pumpkin patch are just the beginning. And the best part? They’re all outdoors!
Fall holidays are equally some of the most fun. Halloween provides the opportunity to dress up with friends or significant others, have a wild time and enjoy indulging in delicious candies! Thanksgiving offers delicious potlucks of food with the warmth of family gatherings.
Food
Apple and pumpkin galore! Fall has some of the tastiest flavored treats — caramel apples, pumpkin pies, seasonal coffees, you name it. It’s also the perfect season to pull out your family recipes for chilis, soups and casseroles, bringing a cozy warmth to your kitchen!
Films
Arguably, the pinnacle of fall might have to be the TV-binging and movie night opportunities. The ultimate fall show, in my opinion, is “Gilmore Girls,” a must-watch (or rewatch) every autumn. Shows like “The Vampire Diaries” or “Gossip Girl” also have a distinct fall feel about them. But movies are where I believe it’s truly at — and I’m not just talking horror. Rom-coms like “When Harry Met Sally” and enchanting stories like “Practical Magic” are what the season was made for.
Some other honorable mentions are what social media has tagged as “horror movies that aren’t horror movies.” Essentially, these are films that are gut-wrenching yet inspiring, and make you really think, likely to the point that they stick with you forever. My favorites of this genre are “Little Women” and “Dead Poets Society.” Pro tip: light a fall-scented candle, sip on some hot cider and surround yourself with friends for the perfect movie night.
Fall deserves all the love it receives. From the perfect weather to the endless seasonal activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With its offerings, fall culminates into a time that feels as inspirational as it does comfortable, making the transition from summer into the school year a smooth one.