By Giulia Gutzwiller, Newswire Intern

Sept. 22 marked the first day of autumn — the spookiest, pumpkin-spiciest and most exciting season of the year. Autumn is much more than chilly weather and fallen leaves. It’s a lifestyle. 

In 2011, blogger Caitlin Covington became the face of the term “Christian Girl Autumn,” expressing her admiration for the season in her posts. She later went viral in 2019 for posting on X: “Hot Girl Summer is coming to an end, get ready for Christian Girl Autumn.”

 Online users initially used the term to poke fun at “basic” Christian women like Covington that wear infinity scarves, skinny jeans and tall boots all season long. However, it has since transformed into a term that has captured the essence of the autumn lifestyle that Christians and non-Christians alike can partake in: comfy and fashionable clothes, warm pumpkin-flavored drinks, festive decor and pure happiness. 

One reason why I love autumn is that I get to wear all my leggings and sweaters that I couldn’t wear in the summer’s sweltering heat. There’s truly no greater feeling than wearing a cozy outfit in 50-degree weather. The chilly weather also allows for more layering, which adds a lot of signature flair to my everyday looks. My very limited summer wardrobe, which mostly consists of simple tees, can’t begin to compete with my wide selection of long-sleeved tops, sweaters, crewnecks, hoodies and jackets. 

Something that pairs well with stylish and weather-appropriate outfits is a delicious warm drink like Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte. Available from late August through early November, the Pumpkin Spice Latte takes the world by storm whenever it’s on the menu. 

Another seasonal beverage option is the iconic apple cider. I try to stop myself from buying multiple apple cider jugs every time I step into a grocery store, but it’s just so addicting.  

Pumpkin and apple flavors also come in food form as some of my favorite desserts — such as cookies and pies — contain these seasonal tastes. Many well-known brands try to capitalize on the popularity of these flavors by adding them to their own products. One notable example is Trader Joe’s entire store. If I walked into a Trader Joe’s right now, the whole store would be decked out in autumnal products and decor. They’re doing it right.  

In addition to their delectable taste, pumpkins are used to decorate for Halloween and Thanksgiving, two of the three most beloved holidays of the year. At what other point in the year is it socially acceptable to walk outside wearing a costume, scare other people on purpose and eat immense amounts of food or candy? Only in autumn! 

 As autumn begins, I find myself consuming media that I associate with autumn. For instance, I’ve been listening to multiple Taylor Swift albums lately, including Red (Taylor’s Version), folklore and evermore. I also recently made a new Spotify playlist that features “we fell in love in october” by girl in red, “Sweater Weather” by The Neighborhood and other seasonal tunes. 

 It wouldn’t exactly be autumn without the memorable movies and shows depicting the season. Watching classics such as Halloweentown, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and Gilmore Girls creates the quintessential autumn experience. 

I can understand why some people might prefer warmer and greener seasons like spring and summer, especially since the weather is usually more consistent. However, no other season compares to autumn’s beauty. The beautiful red, orange, yellow, dark green and brown colors set autumn apart from the other seasons’ color palettes. 

Put on that infinity scarf. Carve a pumpkin. Listen to “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)” at full blast in your car while you drive to Trader Joe’s.  Despite the rainy, humid, 70-degree weather, it’s “Christian Girl Autumn!”