Northwestern's Very Own Fall Camouflage

I love trees.

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Although I’ve never been much of a tree-climber (probably a result of my helicopter mother), the changing colors of the leaves entrance me. In the dull Northwestern winter, the trees around campus make my walks to class infinitely better. The other day, I squealed with excitement when I found a Northwestern trees Instagram account (@treesofnorthwestern) – this outburst did not phase my friends.

As the sunlight, temperature and soil changes, leaves’ food processes change as well, according to College of Environmental Science and Forestry. This breakdown exposes the yellow, oranges and reds, produced by carotenoids and xanthophyll pigments since chlorophyll, which produces green pigment, no longer dominates, says Farmers Almanac.

The feelings induced by the enchanting colors and impression of fall trees serve as inspiration for chic Fall attire.

“Charlie Brown”

“Charlie Brown”

Meet “Charlie Brown,” a tree in the sorority quad. The name for this tree derives from its color similarity to Charlie’s t-shirt and Woodstock, the small yellow Bird. Woodstock’s quintessential positions lying on top of Snoopy’s dog house embodies the desire for anyone passing by to lay under the tree and absorb its beauty.


“Sun-kissed Watermelon”

“Sun-kissed Watermelon”

Introducing “Sun-kissed Watermelon,” a tree outside of Willard. Its pink-green ombre and rounded edge reminds me of a sun-kissed watermelon since the top layer appears pink-ish, not bright red.



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“Sun-kissed Watermelon”

“Ms. Burnt”

“Ms. Burnt”

Here’s “Ms. Burnt,” a tree in between Annie May Swift and Sheridan. Flaunting a burnt orange color with its dainty leaves and thin branches, this tree encompasses both boldness and fragility.


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“Ms. Burnt”

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“Ms. Burnt”

“Lumière”

“Lumière”

Next up is “Lumière,” a tree in the sorority quad. Its reddened top but glowing orange body resembles a flame. What candle radiates so much positive energy other than Lumière from Beauty and the Beast?





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“Lumière”

“Johnny Appleseed”

“Johnny Appleseed”

Now introducing “Johnny Appleseed,” a tree in the grass area in between University and Sheridan. The name for this tree derives from the story of Johnny Appleseed since its mix of green, yellowish green and some light red spark visions of a ripening apple.

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“Johnny Appleseed”

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“Johnny Appleseed”

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“Johnny Appleseed”

“Maroon 5”

“Maroon 5”

This is one of my favorites: “Maroon 5,” a tree right outside of Deering Library. The maroon pigment displayed on every leaf of this tree contrasts the green behind it; this fullness of color immediately brings to mind Adam Levine and his songs, which are the perfect fall vibes.

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“Maroon 5”

Top: Zara Contrasting Embroidered Top

Skirt: Zara Pleated Skirt

Shoes: Topshop Arizona Boots


With the upcoming winter, we may have to bid farewell to our colorful tree friends, but don’t worry, a new set of colors will be back in the spring!