A New Approach to Autumn
Fall is finally here and after a long, hot, dry summer, I couldn’t be happier. The change of season in and of itself is refreshing as we move from hot to cool, from outdoors to indoors, and from light and bright to rich and deep. Until now, I have never thought about the idea that fall allows us to make an easy transition between the dramatic differences of summer and winter. But fall welcomes us gently back indoors, quietly inviting us to step into layers of textures, colors, fragrances, and flavors. Before the harsh swing of winter hits, we get to acclimate to the falling temperatures that would otherwise be a radical shock to our bodies and our minds. It’s sweet really how one season flows into the next allowing us time to savor the current season while covertly building up anticipation and readiness for the next.
As has been my unintended approach this year, I have been stretching my perspectives by exploring different sides of familiar things. And the season of fall is no different! I started with the name. Fall is the only season that offers a choice of two names. I have always called fall, fall, but what about autumn instead? There is something about the name autumn that feels and sounds old world, classic, timeless with a soft brush of elegance, and I really like that.
Pumpkin spice and apple spice are very common flavors and fragrances this time of year, but what about one of the season’s most overlooked items in the produce bins - figs? Figs actually have an earthy combination of floral, juicy, and sweet which makes it a rich ingredient choice in your seasonal dishes as well as a refreshing fragrance to fill your spaces and places.
Mums and marigolds are typical fall floral go-to’s this time of year but what about fern fronds, sunflowers, late season ranunculus, dahlias, or cosmos? Ferns are hearty indoor or outdoor (depending on where you live) plants that come in several varietals allowing you to experiment with their beautiful shades of green and various unique textures. Pair your fern fronds with deep chocolate or rich wine colored late seasonal blooms for a stunning spin on the season’s best.
And, then of course, what about exploring the different tones and textures of autumn’s bountiful colors? Surround yourself this season with the warmth of pillows, throws, dried florals and table linens in unexpected colors such as rusty or terracotta oranges, creamy whites, olive or sage greens, amber browns, wine-y purples, straw yellows, and soft pinks. Take cues from nature, the season’s harvest of herbs and produce, and whatever other elements that invite you into the cozy yet simple beauty of autumn. Explore new colors, fragrances, flavors, and textures, and see what the season shows you in return.
Happy Autumn to you! May you enjoy and savor every moment this season offers!
Michele