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Here's everything you need to know about those second summer days
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- Where does the phrase Indian summer come from?
- What makes an Indian summer?
- Will we have an Indian summer 2023?
An Indian summer — a name used to describe a late burst of warm weather that occurs in autumn — first gained popularity in the UK in the early 19th century. But what exactly does it mean?
After a washout summer for many across Britain, we are wondering whether we'll be treated to an Indian summer this year. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the phrase and where it originates from...
Where does the phrase Indian summer come from?
While the exact origins of the phrase are not known, the Met Office says several writers have speculated it may have referred to hazy autumn conditions that allowed Native American Indians to continue hunting — especially in October and November.
First used in the eastern United States, these second summer days were first recorded in a letter written by Frenchman John de Crevecoeur dated 17th January 1778. In his letter, he said: "Sometimes the rain is followed by an interval of calm and warm which is called the Indian summer."
What makes an Indian summer?
Autumn heatwaves before the frost of fall really sets in are often referred to as Indian summers, but what exactly makes an Indian summer? Typically, an Indian summer is a period of abnormally warm weather following the freeze of autumn.
According to the BBC, some people claim that an Indian summer cannot come until after the first damaging frost of autumn, or after a severely cold episode sometimes known as a "Squaw Winter".
Will we have an Indian summer 2023?
Beautiful balmy autumnal days are what many of us dream of. According to the Met Office's long range forecast, the first half of September may see some spells of warmer weather.
"There are currently few strong signals for the first half of September, meaning that typical early-autumnal conditions are the most likely scenario across the UK. Northern and western areas are likely to see more unsettled weather, with the greatest likelihood of drier weather being in the south and east.
"It is also possible that some more prolonged spells of warm weather might affect areas towards the later stages of the period. Temperatures are generally expected to be close to average at first but may become slightly above average as the month progresses".
While there could be some changeable conditions with showers, we could see above average temperatures towards the middle of September.
The best scented candles to make your home smell like heaven
Best Scented Candles
Country Living Marketplace Soy Wax Candle - Awaken 180ml
£18 at countrylivingshop.co.uk
This hand-poured soy wax candle is scented with a blend of rose, ylang ylang, and jasmine essential oils. The calming scent reduces stress and helps you unwind.
Best Scented Candles
Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Candle
If we told you that you could calm yourself significantly after a long day just by lighting a candle, would you believe us? Aromatherapy Associate's De-Stress Candle is proof. This gorgeous candle omits a zen blend of frankincense, wild camomile and petitgrain. The effects are powerful.
Love the smell of fresh laundry? This is the candle for you. This will make your whole room smell like crisp cotton sheets. Beauty Pie members pay just £17.60 for it with the subscription service.
Fresh linen is a scent loved by all - refreshing, relaxing, and comforting. Subtle notes of powder and musk add depth, complemented by its main floral fragrance.
Best Scented Candles
3 Wick Jumbo Candle - English Pear and Spices
£35 at Country Living Marketplace
Hand-poured right here in the UK, this stylish candle makes a lovely gift or treat for yourself. An inviting scent of English pear and spices will make you feel comforted and relaxed. Plus, a burn time of 70 hours means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy it.
Fragranced with refreshing eucalyptus and lemongrass for a rejuvenating welcome to your home. We love the pretty blue holder, which can be re-used to hold trinkets.
The White Company's range of botanical candles look as pretty as they smell with decorative fruits, herbs and woods in their bases. This rhubarb-scented candle is a gorgeous gift to give, with notes of tart rhubarb, freesia buds, plum blossom and juicy red apples.
Best Scented Candles
Country Living Marketplace Bees 30cl Candle - Mandarin & Sandalwood
£25 at countrylivingshop.co.uk
Handmade in Northumberland with plant wax made from rapeseed and coconut oil, this uplifting candle is sure to boost your mood. Scented with mandarin and sandalwood, this candle both smells and looks good, thanks to its bee-patterned ceramic pot.
What we love about Malin + Goetz's candle range is their unconventional approach. Rather than create standard floral fragrances, they opt for the likes of sage, otto and vetiver. Their bergamot-scented candle is our favourite to date with its citrusy, sparkling fragrance.
Best Scented Candles
Country Living Marketplace Inglenook Embers - Frankincense, Amber & Cedarwood
£28 at countrylivingshop.co.uk
This opulent candle has a musky, earthy and grounding scent created by a combination of frankincense, amber, and cedarwood essential oils. A brilliant choice for the colder months and the festive period.
Inspired by the spray whipped up by the North Sea, this is the perfect candle for fans of long, coastal walks. The fresh scent is refreshing and invigorating.
The fruity scents of pear and blackcurrant are just the thing for adding a burst of fragrance to your home. Bold and playful, this is a fragrance everyone will enjoy.
Know someone who just adores the scent of real roses? You'll make their day with this option from Yankee Candle. It's powerful without being overpowering.
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