Autumn vibes, summer temps: six ways to get cosy while it’s still warm

After 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.

Tidy up

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.

Fake it till it’s chilly

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.

Create atmosphere

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.

Snug-but-not-too-hot pyjamas

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.

Pamper yourself

Face time: a sheet mask brings the spa feeling home. Photograph: Andrii Lysenko/Getty

There’s no doubt that autumn and pampering go hand in hand. If it’s too hot for a bath, try adding more luxury to your shower. These Smug steamers dissolve at the edge of the water stream, releasing fragrance. Or try a shower gel with a spa-like scent to help you unwind, such as Method’s affordable Daily Zen body wash with green tea and cucumber.

If you fancy a skincare treatment, opt for a cooling one. Sali Hughes says this Hada Labo Tokyo sheet mask is a “huge drink of water for a frazzled face”. Or tackle hard heels from a summer of sandal-wearing with moisturising socks.

Create the perfect night in

Curling up with a new TV show is much easier when it’s dark at 8.30pm (check our culture team’s guide to the best autumn TV shows); pair it with M&S’s peanut butter and jelly munch tin, a Filter favourite.