In French, the phrase, tourner la page is often associated with changing seasons and the chance to start fresh. L’automne, in particular, evokes a sense of renewal as temperatures cool and leaves take on vibrant hues before falling to make room for new growth. Elevated leisurewear takes center stage this season as we lean into calm contemplation and gentle autumn rituals. Here are a few of our favourite French-inspired habits for the season:
1. Stroll Through Nature
The crisp air and gorgeous scenery make walks in the park particularly special in autumn. To enjoy the fruits of the season, French people often incorporate apple picking or chestnut harvesting into their leisurely strolls. Goulburn Valley in Victoria, Stanthorpe in Queensland, and Tasmania are all lovely locations for apple picking. Chestnuts Australia also has a great guide on harvesting locations and events
2. Read a Good Book
France’s rich history of famous writers shows how integral literature is to their culture. Autumn, in particular, offers an ideal atmosphere for cosying up with a good book. For those of you who felt inspired by the Alliance Française Film Festival, we highly recommend picking up a copy of Le Comte de Monte-Cristo (The Count of Monte Cristo) by Alexandre
Dumas.
3. Watch a Beautiful Film
In France, Cinéma is cherished as le septième art (the seventh art). As the season of nostalgia, it’s le moment parfait for immersing yourself in film. If you haven’t had a chance, check out the AF Film Festival for modern French cinema. Or if you're in the mood for an autumn classic, we recommend Conte d'automne (A Tale of Autumn), a romantic comedy about a
widowed winemaker who’s friends scheme to find her a partner.
4. Make a Warm Drink
Mulled wine—called vin chaud in French—is the ultimate warm drink during the cool months. To make it, combine a bottle of wine in a pot with the zest of a lemon and an orange. Add one cinnamon stick, 80 grams of brown sugar, a piece of ginger, one clove, one star anise, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil and then turn off the heat. Cover the pot and let it steep for 30 minutes. Then, reheat and serve. Santé !
5. Wear Clothes That Love You Back
Walks through nature and cosy afternoons with a warm drink and a good book call for a gentler approach to fashion. While French women make a point to look chic all year, Autumn offers an opportunity to soften your style with an elevated take on leisurewear. Natural fibres, loose fits, and casual, sophisticated silhouettes take over Paris during this time. To capture the look, pair a lightweight shirt or jumper with cotton or velour track pants, and the Talina Leather Sneakers et bonne journée!
