Soft landing: ease into autumn before the temperature catches up. Photograph: Getty View image in fullscreen Soft landing: ease into autumn before the temperature catches up. Photograph: Getty Guardian journalism is independent. We earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more .
Craving cosiness, but too warm for blankets and baths? Try our autumn cheat sheet
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Lily Smith Mon 14 Sep 2026 16.00 CEST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google A fter a record-breaking summer of heat , temperatures aren’t set to drop enough for hot baths, warm tights and roast dinners just yet. But if the darker evenings and falling leaves have got you craving cosiness, here’s our recipe for achieving that comforting autumnal vibe while it’s still unseasonably warm out.
View image in fullscreen Dry run: swap fresh flowers for something more autumnal. Photograph: Anna Blazhuk/Getty We did some research, and one of the main things people said made their home feel cosy was keeping it tidy. Clean before an evening in to create a relaxing environment (if you need supplies, the Filter loves Seep’s 12-month supply of plastic-free sponges ). Instead of a vase filled with fresh flowers, opt for beautiful dried ones – they feel more seasonal and last for ever. Or make your own from the garden: dried poppy seed heads are strikingly sculptural.
Desperate to dig out your autumn wardrobe but don’t want to overheat? Try a knee-length skirt without the tights: we’re already anticipating Claudia Winkleman’s magnificent Highlands wardrobe in The Celebrity Traitors with this Albaray black kilt skirt , which we can report hangs beautifully (a checked version has already sold out at Marks & Spencer). If your legs are a little summer-dry, slather them in moisturiser: Garnier’s affordable vitamin C body cream was rated the best budget moisturiser in our test.
View image in fullscreen Glow up: candlelight brings the cosy factor before the cold sets in. Photograph: Alexandr Kolesnikov/Getty Candles are a cheat code for instant hygge, but this transitional period feels too soon for cloying pumpkin spice scents. Memree is known for its niche fragrances, including its viral jam-on-toast candle , which has notes of toasted bread, butter and strawberry jam. Alternatively, Daylesford Organic’s log fire candle channels charred birch logs, incense and leather (and its fragrance fills a room).
Portable lamps are also perfect for plonking down wherever you need a vibe boost. Dusk’s rechargeable bobbin lamp is super cute, affordable and comes in a tasteful olive green or plum.
While temperatures are still unseasonably high , go for short pyjamas in a soft material that still gives that snug feeling. This Chelsea Peers women’s pyjama top and shorts set is made from a breathable, silky modal blend. For men, this M&S cotton pyjama shorts set is just the right amount of cosy.
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