Every year, the same thing happens, and it still manages to catch us by surprise: October goes by in the blink of an eye, and, before we know it, the holidays are here (at least, according to Target’s seasonal décor section). Blissful fall weeks — the kind where you can still get away with not wearing a jacket, just your softest sweater and worn-in denim — are fleeting, but our savvy shopping editors have been taking full advantage of the weather, judging from our latest batch of monthly favorites.
Every month, we poll our coworkers on their recent order histories to compile the best new finds they bought and loved. Everything clocks in at under $100 — a sweet spot of affordability and quality — because while we love a bargain, we shop with intention and sustainability in mind. This month, it’s been all about versatile long-sleeve tees you can layer up or down, trendy metallic sneakers, and terracotta lipstick that all feel so right for this crisp time of year.
Keep clicking to shop R29 editors’ favorite finds from the month of October — all clocking in at $100 or less.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
“I take no credit for discovering this Gap gem: My best friend writes a weekly substack newsletter, and included this in a send a few weeks ago. I was very influenced. The classic oversized shape of this 100% cotton sweater is right up my alley, plus it’s currently 40% off! I picked up the black and navy, but it also comes in a gorgeous red, olive green, cream, and brown. Added bonus is that it comes in regular, petite, and tall sizing.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Gap Oversized Boyfriend Sweater, $, available at Gap
“I’m a sucker for anything mini (see: the mini Tirtir cushion compact I bought last year), so when I saw this teeny-tiny MAC lipstick at the Ulta checkout line, I caved. The MACximal lipsticks are super luxe, pigmented, and have a gorgeous satin-matte finish. The shade Warm Teddy was an impulse find, but ended up being one of my favorite nude tones ever — it’s even become a top contender for what I’ll wear on my wedding day this upcoming spring.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
MAC Cosmetics Mini M·A·Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick, $, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
“Yes, another lip product — but very different from my new MAC. I’ve been on the hunt for a gloss that doesn’t just leave a sticky reflective layer on top of my lips, but rather plumps and hydrates with a natural, pretty sheen. I’ve found it in e.l.f.’s Pout Clout Lip Plumping Pen, which is a dupe for the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip, IMHO.
My favorite shade is Wicked Cherry, which I’m christening the next-generation Clinique Black Honey. The pigmentation is sheer but buildable, and perfect for a little something-something on your lips. I also have the clear one, which I love to use to prep my lips for lipstick when I start (this is important) my makeup; while I do my base and eyes, I let the e.l.f. Absorb into my lips and leave them hydrated but not too slick that I can’t wear lipstick on top. The result: no cracked, dry-looking lips, even with the most matte formula.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
e.l.f. Cosmetics Pout Clout Lip Plumping Pen, $, available at e.l.f. Cosmetics
“This is probably the first eyeshadow palette I’ve brought since high school. Occasionally I like to play with makeup for special occasions (big birthdays, Halloween, NYE), but I’m usually a swipe-on-a-shimmery-highlighter-into-the-inner-corners-and-go kinda gal. (I’m lazy, okay?) Ariana Grande’s R.E.M. Beauty has converted me — mostly because these are the most beautiful array of colors that you can mix and match, but also because they favor finger-smudging. (I don’t actually own any proper eyeshadow brushes, just the one that came with my ancient Urban Decay Naked palette back in the day.) I think all the shimmers and sparkles actually add to the slightly messy smudged vibe. I like to imagine I’m a grungy fairy on the way home from a party in the woods, which feels appropriate for a Wicked-themed palette!” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
r.e.m. beauty x Wicked Ozdust Eyeshadow Palette, $, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
“I’m a big fan of Loops. I’ve been using my Experience pair all summer long to protect my ears at the Era’s Tour and festivals. I noticed, though, that I wanted to pull them out at loud, busy restaurant and bar settings, too. So, when Loop announced a new version of the Switch (which can alternate between the Experience, Quiet, and Engage modes), I snapped a pair up immediately. With the Engage mode, I stop feeling so overwhelmed and overstimulated in loud social settings and actually talk better with friends. I’ve also started using them on busy commuter trains to help focus on my reading. They’re a great way to start winding down and ‘switching off’ after work, too.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Loop Switch 2, $, available at LoopPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
“Any time I’m traveling on a plane, an eye mask comes with me. I hate, however, how most are so small — they make my eyes feel pressed in, and don’t give enough space for my nose. These large ones are perfect for comfortably resting and getting genuine eyeshut while in a bright cabin. They’re a luxurious buy, but they beat any other masks I’ve tried, hands down.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Drowsy GREEN PISTACHIO ORIGINAL SILK SLEEP MASK, $, available at Drowsy
“I’m a big fan of Elwood’s Oversized Core Tee. (I own it in 4 colorways). I find the mid-weight feel and boxy relaxed shape is really versatile for me — I throw it on with baggy denim or trousers when I’m feeling casual, but also wear it to workout and sleep in. I recently discovered the long sleeve version, which is ideal for the fall/winter weather, and I love it just as much. As of now, I only own it in vintage black, but will be adding a few more colorways into my rotation this season.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Elwood Oversized Core LS Tee, $, available at Elwood
“I’m not usually one for cleaner scents — especially in fall and winter — so I was surprised at how much I loved this perfume. It starts light and juicy with a fruity-floral mix of pear, jasmine, rose, and bergamot, but it’s actually how this scent dries down that I love the most. It leaves me with a really interesting blend of moss, vanilla, and musk that’s warm and comforting.
It’s earthy, but not too woody, sweetened by that vanilla. The only way I can describe it is as a ‘your-skin-but-better’ scent, like the more grown-up and sophisticated sister to Glossier You. It’s fresh and clean without being too soapy and powdery (which is the main issue I have with so-described ‘clean’ scents). Even better, it lasts all day!” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Merit Retrospect, $, available at MeritPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
“I love a festive scented candle. Anything plummy, pumpkin-y, spicy, and rich, I’ll be burning while I read books and stay tucked in bed on freezing days. The candles from Nest never disappoint, and the scent from this one fills then lingers in my room nicely.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
NEST New York Autumn Plum Classic Candle, $, available at NEST New York
“I’m so glad I listened to all the TikToks hyping up this spray — it has totally transformed my skin. Usually, my skin is pretty clear, but over the last few months, I’ve been dealing with redness, discoloration, uneven texture, and angry, painful pimples that sit underneath the surface (aka fungal acne). I first tried to overload my skin with lots of different products, which actually made it worse, so I decided to strip my routine way back.
Now, I spray this after cleansing, moisturize with a super sensitive skin-friendly cream (La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm) and an SPF (also from La Roche-Posay, the Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+). All together, it’s really calmed down and soothed my irritated skin, though I have to credit Tower28 for doing all the heavy lifting — I’ve noticed the small bumps on my forehead and neck reduce dramatically, my skin brighten, and my acne dissipate so quickly; even just after a few weeks.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Tower 28 SOS Rescue Spray, $, available at Tower 28Photo: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
“I absolutely hate shaving, so I will gladly try any product that will make my experience even 1% better. Upgrading to a safety razor (I use Oui The People’s) has resulted in smoother results and less dry skin, but another major upgrade has been using the right shaving cream. One of my recent discoveries is Athena Club’s Whipped Shave Cream, which looks (and dispenses) like a can of your favorite aerated dairy foam. I love the soft, plush texture and the subtle vanilla scent. (It’s almost good enough to eat, but, you know… don’t.) At $9, it’s a great product at a solid price, and more than gets the job done.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Athena Club Whipped Shave Cream, $, available at Athena ClubPhoto: Courtesy of Karina Hoshikawa.
“I’m starting to get into perfumes and fragrances, and I’m in love with this scent! I’ve been layering this with other perfumes, and, everywhere I go, at least one person has asked me what I’m wearing. I highly recommend this perfume in terms of scent and lasting power.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
The 7 Virtues Candied Lychee Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora
“I love indulging in a little everyday luxury, and for me, that’s a glass of prosecco or champagne whenever I want, not just for special occasions. I can usually finish a bottle if I’m with friends, but, if I’m just with my fiancé, we swear by these nifty champagne stoppers. You can find plastic ones, but these steel ones are lightweight and will last you much longer. These have a rubbery core and sides that securely close around the mouth of the bottle to create a nearly airtight seal so your bottle stays bubbly until the last sip. Cheers to that!” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
OWO Stainless Steel Champagne Stoppers, $, available at Amazon
“As the weather gets colder and drier, I’ve found myself adding extra steps to my skincare routine in order to keep my skin moisturized. On evenings I can’t be bothered with all the serums and face oils, this sleeping mask has been such a godsend. Packed with hydrating ingredients like hibiscus extract and bilberry seed oil (which is rich in skin-strengthening fatty acids), it keeps my skin plump and smooth, and I can’t get enough of the texture – so lightweight, and it absorbs quickly.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Mask, $, available at Ulta
“Ever since I discovered that metallic sneakers were continuing to trend through the fall, I knew I finally wanted to get myself a pair. And while there are so many stylish options out there, I opted for a more cost-friendly pair with these silver Pumas. They’re pretty tame and versatile for day and night looks, and I like that the brown rubber soles tie into all the browns in my fall wardrobe.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
PUMA Club Era II Sneaker, $, available at DSWPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
“As a large-chested girlie, I’m always here to recommend any wireless bras that have kept me well-supported yet comfortable. This ThirdLove bra is my recent favorite: The material is buttery smooth, and the wider straps keep my chest secured without digging into my skin. This is a fantastic T-shirt bra for anyone who craves a bit more coverage, and the wide size range is really impressive for a wireless bralette. (For reference, I’m a 34D, and wear MD+ in this bra.) I have it in taupe and sincerely hope the brand is considering expanding its color range in the future.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
ThirdLove ComfortStretch Smoothing Wireless Bra, $, available at ThirdLove
“I got a sneak peek at this Wicked collaboration, and am so thrilled to have been gifted this unique advent calendar. I waited to open it up with my mom and sister, and we gleefully unboxed the jewelry pieces and hair accessories (that we of course fought over). With 12+ whimsical (not-too-kitschy) styles, the $75 price point is definitely worth it. Consider carting it up for yourself ASAP or gifting it to your favorite Wicked fan in December.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Aldo x Wicked 12 Days of Accessories, $, available at AldoPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
“Normally, I don’t really care about socks, and am fine with my 10-pack from Hanes, but I really dig these supportive ones. I’d say I have pretty strong ankles, but I also stumble and trip a lot, so feeling stable in these socks that feel like a less-restrictive brace is such a good feeling..” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Forme Ankle Guard Sock, $, available at Forme
“One peep at my arms, and you’ll spy red-raw skin, unless I have a bottle of this on my nightstand (and in my bathroom, on my desk, in my bag, ad infinitum). I’m obsessed with it to instantly hydrate, soothe, and cool my angry dry patches before they become full-blown eczema flares. Since using this, I’ve really noticed a reduction in itchiness, and I can happily wear tight sleeves again as a result. It comes as no surprise, then, to see that this is National Eczema Association-approved, and is packed with prebiotics, oats, and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier. I love that it’s completely unscented, and boasts a barely-there, gel-like texture despite its incredible hydrating prowess. There’s nothing worse than thick, paste-like creams!” — Humeara Mohamed, Contributing Writer
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream, $, available at Amazon
“I’ve put these all together because I’ve spent the past month mixing and matching them, creating the best burgundy, berry red-brown, glossy lip situations. If I’m feeling more glam, I line with the MAC liner in Chestnut (a rich, dark nutty brown) and then fill in with Dior Midnight (the perfect balance between a hydrating lip balm and powdery soft lipstick). For more casual days, it’s either the glossy brown MAC Squirt Plumping Gloss or rich, deep glossy Haus Labs Lip Glaze in Fig.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Haus Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Glaze Plumping Gloss, $, available at Sephora
MAC Cosmetics Lip Pencil, $, available at Ulta Beauty
Dior Rouge Dior Lip Balm, $, available at SephoraPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
“I’ve never been a huge drinker, but, being in NYC, we love picnics and drinking. The only thing is it’s very inconvenient to bring a clunky bottle of wine as well as a bottle opener and cups. I found this sleek flask that can hold half a bottle of wine and has a built-in cup, which is perfect for a little two-person picnic].” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
High Camp Flasks Firelight Flask, $, available at High Camp Flasks
“I love going outside for picnics in the park with my dog Nugget during the fall, but I hate having to bring tote bags that I just throw his water bowl, toys, and my personal items in. This one is the perfect companion because it has all these compartments, like a ball pocket and a treat pocket, and a detachable water bowl and poop bag dispenser— literally all the things in this cutie little tote.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Cleverpup Park Pack Dog Gear Tote, $, available at Cleverpup
“I don’t wear caps in the summer. (Don’t panic! I do wear copious amounts of SPF and avoid sitting out in the sun.) A sweaty head and sodden hairline just aren’t for me. I do opt for them in the winter to shield my face and eyes from the rain during dog walks, though. This cap is my favorite for multiple reasons: the deep khaki green hue matches my favorite winter coat and doesn’t show dirt easily (muddy paws really do get everywhere); the velcro fastener is quick and easy to adjust around a ponytail; and, simply, it looks really cool. If I do say so myself.” — Humeara Mohamed, Contributing Writer
Ganni Green Embroidered Logo Cap, $, available at Ganni
“People with big boobs know the struggle of wearing a button-up shirt, blouse, or dress and experiencing the nightmare of gaping. I love this bra for when I need my boobs ‘held in’ a bit more to prevent that, and the neutral colorway means it works under almost anything.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Lounge Barely There Plunge Bra, $, available at Lounge
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This article was originally published on refinery29.com.
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