The Gilmore Girl Effect
October 1st hits and suddenly I pretend that I am living in a quaint small town, carrying books in one arm and a steaming cup of joe in the other, all while the crisp air is coloring my cheeks a natural pink. Ideally I’m wearing an oversized knit sweater, denim mini skirt, black tights, and my loafers. Preferably on the phone gossiping with my mom. This is what I call The Gilmore Girl Effect.
We all know and love the comforting energy the early 2000’s television show Gilmore Girls gives off. Stars Hollow, the show's fictional town, is practically set in a perpetual state of mystical east-coast autumn. The warm colors, grainy film, and mother-daughter banter feels like home, sending a wave of nostalgia over me with each episode. I find solace in the familiarity, innocence and simplicity of the early seasons. It takes me back to the magic of being a young girl in high-school, celebrating every crunchy leaf of the ground and beginning my coffee addiction. Time felt slower, and it was not as difficult to squeeze all of the autumnal festivities into my schedule.
Now here I am, a senior in college, spending my favorite season cramming for midterms, setting up internship meetings, and spending the crisp mornings serving at a brunch restaurant. Time feels less slow now. Days go by faster, and I can’t seem to keep up. The magic of autumn has faded throughout the years, now being replaced with anxiety and responsibilities. However, I am determined to fight the seasonal depression and get that magic back, of course while drawing inspiration from Lorelai and Rory Gilmore. Let’s create the romanticized autumn of our dreams, even if it looks a little different than from when we were younger.
Once the weather hits below 70 degrees, my drinks of choice change with it, and one thing the Gilmore girls and I have in common is that we stay caffeinated. I replace my cold brew with hot coffee, and begin my mornings slowly with two cups, relishing every sip on my front porch while breathing in the brisk air. Lorelai would be proud. And now that college takes over our lives, try to channel your inner Rory Gilmore by heading to a local coffee shop and romanticizing your studious, academic side. Create a perfect autumnal playlist that inspires you, plug in the headphones, and get your work done. Afterwards, read your favorite book, escaping into fictional worlds. Pretend that you’re in Luke’s diner: no phones.
Once the caffeine is consumed and work is complete, it is time to fulfill whatever seasonal activities your heart desires. Whether that’s going to the pumpkin patch to drink apple cider, watching Practical Magic over some red wine, or heading to the nearest haunted house, make sure to make time for it. Some other ideas include watching a scary movie at the drive-in theater, shopping for produce at the farmers market, or throwing a Halloween party with your friends. At the very least, just spend a little time outdoors because this cozy autumn is soon going to turn into a brutal winter.
Fashion is a huge component to fall, and Gilmore Girls is overflowing with outfits to recreate. Lorelai has the greatest collection of eccentric baby tees, blazers, and knee-high boots. Rory really taps into the New England style, especially with her famous cream cable knit sweater. Some great staples for this season include second-hand leather/jean jackets, denim/plaid skirts, trench coats, loafers, and classy turtlenecks. Autumn is all about being comfortable and warm, so however you achieve that is your prerogative.
For the remainder of the season, which technically ends November 30th, I encourage you to play the part. Dress yourself up in your dream fall wardrobe, enjoy your beverage of choice, and complete your personalized autumn bucket list. Call your mom or best friend, romanticize your studying, and have a classic Gilmore Girls autumn.
Strike Out,
Written by: Bria Vanwagoner
Edited by: Sarah Singleton
Graphic Designer:
