Hello. My name is Jason, and I’m a little bit basic… and that’s okay.
I feel like this time of the year has taken a lot of flak recently, but enough is enough. It’s not autumn’s fault that it looks great on camera. There’s a reason why you’re reading these words on your screen, and not watching me recite this article live. Much like people, some seasons are just more photogenic than others.
Stereotypes are plentiful when it comes to fall. People are quick to label you as soon as you express an affinity for any hallmarks of the season, but I’ve decided to stand up for autumn! These are the reasons why I’m #thankful for this time of year.
FLANNEL
I know denim-on-denim has been labelled as the “Canadian tuxedo,” but let’s be honest with each other, flannel is the true uniform of Canada. According to Google, “Lumberjack Chic” is officially no longer in fashion. Those are the opinions of fashion experts though, and I’m a random guy on the internet, so you know whose opinion is more credible (hint: it’s mine).
There’s a reason why oversized, padded shoulders have never made a return to our daily wardrobes, but flannel keeps coming back around. Not only is it comfortable, but it’s also pretty darn functional! Repetitive prints are perfect for hiding stains if you or someone you’re close with is a sloppy eater. Plus, you can enjoy the added benefit of not being subjected to all the unoriginal, “I can’t see you” jokes that come with wearing a camo print. Dress it up, or dress it down. Tuck it in for a night out, or roll up the sleeves and get to work!
We’ve got lost of flannel available onsite!
THE PSL
If any fall trend has gone the way of the Fonz and ‘jumped the shark’, it has to be Pumpkin Spice. What started as a kitschy, seasonal flavouring trend has morphed into a seemingly unstoppable monster. I’ll be the first to admit it has gone a little bit too far at this point.
The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte made a splash when it was originally released in 2003, and it just kept snowballing from there. Today, you’ll find a version of the PSL everywhere from independent cafes to chain restaurants, but the most highly-concentrated source is probably your Instagram feed. If you can put aside your prejudices, you might just find why its become the go-to autumn beverage for many.
You can keep your bitter double espresso, I’ll take the aromas and flavours of fall in a cup. There’s cinnamon, nutmeg, clove and, of course, pumpkin pie spice. And can you really call anything pumpkin pie if it’s not topped with a dollop of whipped cream? I don’t think so. Personally, I prefer mine half sweet, so don’t be afraid to experiment. As the ancient Greek proverb goes, “don’t hate the player, hate the game.”
Find out where you can pick up your PSL at Blue
FALL COLOURS
I’ll admit it, my favourite colour is fall. There, I said it. I regret nothing! Seriously though, autumn is a great metaphor for life. Just like leaves, we all start out as tiny little buds. With the proper nourishment, we grow up to be strong and healthy. Eventually we start to get a little bit dried out and wrinkly, but if you take a step back you’ll realize that’s also when we’re at our most beautiful. The only difference is that leaves don’t fall from the tree three times a night to go to the bathroom.
Where was I going with that thought again? Never mind, it doesn’t matter. The point is that you shouldn’t feel bad about getting outside to admire the fall colours. As long as you’re not carefully arranging leaves on the ground to create the perfect spectrum for a picture you plan on posting online alongside the thousands of other images of leaves on the ground arranged in the perfect spectrum, you’re okay in my books.