Bits & Pieces: 16 things I love about Autumn

So the weather is finally turning and we’ve had the first day of Autumn. It’s pretty clear that this is the fav time of year for most bloggers #PSL y’all. There are so many things I love about Autumn, I adore nothing more than piling on the layers and knitware, lighting candles and indulging in serious comfort food. Here’s what I’m looking forward to this Autumn.

1. Wearing cosy PJs

I don’t know about you but if I’m ever feeling a bit down or in need of comfort I treat myself to new PJs and everything seems slightly more manageable. I recently got these cozy beauties from Primarni. They’re so comfy and ideal for a massive Harry Potter geek like me!

2. Hot chocolate

I will deffo be wearing the above PJs, sipping hot chocolate from my fav elephant mug and binge watching Bake Off this season. Hot chocolate is a treat all year around but somehow it feels guilt-free when the nights get darker.

3. Mulled errythang

One of the best things about this season has to be that pubs and bars decide to warm and mull their alcohol. Seriously, this is a revelation! I had always (well since it was legal obvs) been a fan of mulled wine but since moving to the West County and discovering the magic of mulled cider I am now a huge fan of that too. There’s nothing better than gathering your friends on a cold night in a cute pub and putting the world to rights with a hot glass of spiced alcohol. I’ve even bought the little mulling teabags to make some at home, it’s the best way to fill your home with festive scents.

4. All the candles

I’m a huge candle lover all year around however, I definitely vary my scents according to the season. So this Summer was all about the citrus-ey fresh scents and now that we’re in Autumn I have switched to spiced, heavier more festive scents. This is my current fav, it smells like Christmas (and it’s never too early to get into the Christmas spirit – ok?!)

In my new flat I have a huge fireplace with mantlepiece and mirror over it. In my typical ‘more is more’ style I have filled the mantle with trinkets, treasures and candles. It just makes the place feel so homely and inviting. Here’s a peek at some of my current candle set-ups.

5. Snuggling in bed reading

I used to be an avid reader but after uni (and the constant nights out that entailed) I struggled to get back into the habit. With it getting colder now I find it much easier to switch off my laptop, wrap myself in a blanket in bed with a mug of the aforementioned hot chocolate and get lost in a book. I have a huge TBR pile if I’m totally honest but this is my To Be Read for the coming season. I have nearly finished Harry Potter and The Cursed Child and OMG it’s good! It makes me want to re-read all the original books, maybe save that until I’ve read my new books first. I’m also about halfway through Not That Kind Of Girl by Lena Dunham, as per Lena it’s hilarious, brutally honest and totally relatable in parts – a great read when going through a breakup and you really need a good laugh.

6. Guilt free TV

Now that the nights are drawing in there’s no shame in staying in and marathoning a new TV show. There are so many options to watch, especially when you find out which service provider can offer you the best deal for On-Demand TV. Personally, I’m excited to get stuck into The Night Of, The Crown, The Fall season 2 and Black Mirror. I’m also thinking about starting the Gilmore Girls now that they have a new season. I’ve never watched it before but its New England setting sounds like ideal Fall viewing.

7. Velvet!

I am loving the 90s trends that are back in style and am all about that velvet. In fact velvet chokers are one of my favourite accessories right now. I have an amazing maroon velvet jacket that I’ve had for years which I’m excited to dig out. I am also currently lusting after this playsuit from Urban Outfitters.

8. Maroon and khaki

I love Autumnal colours and I love the amount of maroon and Khaki I’m seeing on the high street. This along with velvet and cord (a la Stranger Things) means this season is sure to be comfy and warm.

9. Boot season

I recently bought these boots form Pull and Bear and I am completely in love with them. I already have them in tan without the suede backs from last year and they have lasted so well and are super comfortable. The weather is pretty up and down in Bristol at the mo heat-wise but I am excited to soon be able to embrace boots weather. I love these with my khaki denim skirt and tights.

10. Blanket scarfs

I am all about the blanket scarfs I have a deep green tartan Pull and Bear one, a green and grey plaid one my mum gave me and I recently bought a fun grey hounds tooth with neon stripes one – just because it’s getting colder doesn’t mean there’s no need for neon.

11. Soup

Autumn is all about the comfort foods. I’m talking mountains of mashed potato, hearty stews and casseroles and of course soup with a crusty bread roll. I’m keen to try this recipe.

12. Autumn walks with the besties

Is there anything better than crunching through Autumn leaves? The best thing about this season is when the sun is shining but there’s still a chill in the air, making everything crisp and fresh feeling. Being based in Bristol we are really close to lots of areas of natural beauty so we will be taking full advantage of that.

13. Wine, cheese and board game nights

These night are a staple among me and my girls. We all love a night out with cocktails and dancing but we also love meeting up at one of our homes, no makeup, dressed in baggy jumpers to work our way through a shameful amount of wine and cheese whilst playing board games. It turns out we’re all super competitive and as the night goes on and the wine sinks in these evenings always turn hilarious. Our current favourites are Monopoly Deal and 221b Baker Street Detective Game (that one’s a real toughie).

14. Halloween

Of course with summer out of the way we can all start thinking about our Halloween costumes. I genuinely don’t have a clue what my plans are or what I’ll dress up as this year, but I am ruling out Harley Quinn as I’m pretty sure the city will be saturated with them this year.

15. Bonfire night

Fireworks are one of my favourite things in the world, and Bristol always has several great free displays to choose from. Pair it with mulled wine and you’re onto a winner!

16. Craft nights

In the run up to Christmas when I’m trying to save money by not going out and DIYing presents, craft nights are a must. This year I’m excited to try some new ones as well as maybe make another wreath and some more candle holders.

So those are the traditions and activities I’m looking forward to this Autumn, how about you? Are there any to-dos you love at this time of year? Let me know in the comments.

Love, Sarah x