Das Perspective

I’ve always been more of a spring and summer kind of girl. There’s just so much colour everywhere, and as a keen gardener, that’s when life in the garden feels most alive. Spring is full of promise, and I spend those months imagining what’s to come – the seedlings I’ve coaxed from tiny seeds, the new plants settling into the soil, and that wonderful anticipation of seeing how all the shades and textures will mingle together once summer arrives.

Of course, autumn has its own charms. The turning leaves put on a brief but brilliant show, and I do appreciate those golden days while they last. But before long, the trees are bare, the days grow shorter (boo), and the garden begins to fall quiet. Still, cooler weather does bring one thing I truly love: jumper season. There’s something so comforting about pulling on a warm, soft knit when there’s a chill in the air.

I’ve often wished I could knit my own. I’ve given it a go – I can manage the basics – but the next step in the process always seems to elude me. I’m in awe of those who can take a skein of yarn and a pattern and somehow conjure up a beautiful sweater or hat.

Thankfully, I have a little help from a shop we have here called Toast. I adore their sweaters. I own a few of their Orla Donegal Wool jumpers (though, sadly, that range hasn’t appeared this year). This season, I’ve fallen completely for their Donegal Diamond Yoke sweaters. Just look at them – so timeless, so gorgeous. And I love that Toast stands behind the slow fashion movement. Their collections are small, but there’s always a piece or two that feels made for me.

So, while I count the weeks until spring colours return to the garden, I’ll happily wrap myself in a jumper or two and make the most of this cosy season.

Donegal Diamond Yoke Sweater in Blue

Donegal Diamond Yoke Sweater in graphite

Wrapped in Wool: Autumn Comforts

Wednesday, 17 September 2025

I recently bought myself a scooter — mine is a vintage Japanese Shadow (or Joker, depending on the market). Originally, I wanted a Vespa and even tried a few, but unfortunately they’re ever so slightly too big for me. That doesn’t stop me from admiring them, though.

I was in Italy recently and, just like every time, I couldn’t help but fall in love with all the cute little cars — old and sometimes new. I think I need to find a way to use a Piaggio Ape in England. Just look at them, they’re adorable! Another car I’d really love is the old Fiat 500. Unfortunately, in the British climate you really have to take care of them (I suppose elsewhere too?) as they rust quite easily.

But I think I could avoid the rust issue if I bought a Fiat Topolino! Have a look at it — it’s just so sweet. Unfortunately, for some bizarre reason Fiat isn’t selling it in the British market. It was supposed to be available last year. I’ve seen a few in Rome and they look absolutely perfect for me. I’m not a big fan of huge cars; I prefer something cute and easy to park. For now, my lovely Shadow is sufficient as my “second” car. My first car is a Mercedes, which is also fantastic. Even though it’s a lot bigger than the cars I’ve been talking about, it really is a joy to drive. Plus, it has all the little sensors dotted about, which are very useful when you’re trying to park in a tight spot. Still, I’d love an Ape just to pop over to the shops or to the garden centre.