What did October look like to you? As we head out of the year’s spookiest season, team R29 is reflecting on the products that enabled them t...

All The Lifestyle & Wellbeing Products We Tried & Loved In October

What did October look like to you? As we head out of the year’s spookiest season, team R29 is reflecting on the products that enabled them to live out their most autumnal fantasies. They included candles and diffusers that evoke a roaring fire, the perfect pan for making a steaming batch of soup, and activewear suitable for runs on cooler days. But we weren’t just searching for warmth — there’s also joy to be found in bright crocheted coasters, multicolored ballpoint pens and the perfect toothbrush (listen, we all contain multitudes, whether they’re “seasonal” or not).

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 us. 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, we may earn a commission.
Alicia Lansom, Associate EditorPhoto Courtesy of Alicia Lansom.

Suri Sustainable Electric Toothbrush, $92


If anyone saw a photograph of the toothbrush I was using before this, I would probably be kicked off the internet. After far too long, I have replaced my sad, old electric toothbrush with a shiny sustainable alternative that uses plant-based bristles and heads. It also comes with a self-cleaning case (yes, you heard that right), which for a germaphobe like me is truly, truly exciting.

SURI Sustainable Electric Toothbrush, $, available at SURI

Damson Madder Crochet Flower Coasters, £22

I’ve been a huge fan of Damson Madder’s clothes and accessories for years now, and finally the brand has launched into the homeware space. These little crochet coasters are cute and perfect for my warm drinks this winter.

Damson Madder Crochet Flower Coasters – Set of 4, $, available at Damson Madder

Away The Medium Suitcase, $345


I’m traveling to Mexico this month (I know, I’m sorry) and the need for a “big, but not too big” case has been a high priority. With a light shell and 360 wheels, this Away case is ideal for packing a mix of city and beach essentials, while still leaving enough room to bring home lots of colorful crockery and souvenirs. Most importantly though, it is the medium size range, meaning I can’t overpack and get myself charged extra.

Away The Medium, $, available at Away
Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion WriterPhoto Courtesy of Frances Solá-Santiago.

Maison Margiela Replica By The Fireplace Scented Diffuser, $95


My dream of owning an upstate cabin is nowhere near close to happening. So, when a friend gifted me this Margiela Replica diffuser, I was happy to learn I could create the feeling of sitting by a fireplace without having one at home. The smell is intoxicating in all the best ways and it’s perfect for cozy days reading on the couch.

Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Scented Diffuser, $, available at Maison Margiela

Arzopa Portable Laptop Monitor, $129.99


As someone who works from home, I’m often finding ways to make my work set-up as close as possible to an office — but without the commute, of course. This monitor has been all over my TikTok FYP and I’m strongly considering making the plunge. It’s got a super high-quality screen and it’s not too pricey.

Arzopa 15.6'' 1080P FHD Laptop Monitor, $, available at Amazon
Susan Devaney, Life DirectorPhoto Courtesy of Susan Devaney.

Burga Colorful Pearl Phone Charm, $29.95


I never thought I’d be a phone charm kind of person and yet here I am. It makes life just a wee bit easier (and slightly safer) as I wrap it around my wrist while on the street texting and calling. With several Burga designs to pick from, I opted for the rosé style (which is currently sold out), and it’s just so pretty to look at — as are the other colorful options.

Burga Snow Cone Colorful Pearl Phone Charm, $, available at Burga

Addison Ross Faux Tortoiseshell Grinder, $100


From my glasses to my hair clasp, tortoiseshell can be found. So why not extend my love for it to kitchenware too? Addison Ross’s new range — from a tray to placemats — is made from faux tortoiseshell. I’ll be trying out the salt and pepper grinder for the foreseeable (it may even make me happy to be in the kitchen!). 

Addison Ross Faux Tortoiseshell Round Column Salt or Pepper Grinder, $, available at Addison Ross

Our Place Always Pan 2.0, $150 $99


I will find myself in the kitchen more often as the temperatures continue to drop. Why? It’s soup, stew and spaghetti bolognese season in my house. Nothing feels (or tastes) more comforting than hearty homemade meals in fall and winter. So to make this all come together, I’m in need of a shiny new pan. In shades of sage, spice and steam, Our Places’ recycled aluminum Always Pan looks incredibly chic and inviting. I can already picture myself using it on a Sunday afternoon in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.

Our Place Always Pan 2.0, $, available at Our Place
Kristine Romano, Associate Editor Photo & DesignPhoto Courtesy of KRISTINE ROMANO.

P.F. Candle Co. Piñon Candle, $51.63


This candle by P.F. Candle Co. has been a firm favorite for years. I repurchase it every fall and by the new year, it’s finished. It has a warming, earthy pine scent that is also subtly sweet — it reminds me of Christmas.

P.F. Candle Co. Pinon Candle, $, available at Candles Direct

Adanola Ultimate Wrap Bra, $44, and Adanola Ultimate Wrap Over Crop Shorts, $48


Summer always throws me off course when it comes to my exercise regime and so the fall months tend to be when I try and restore some sense of routine. And while new activewear is by no means necessary for this, I’d be lying if I said this cute matching set hasn’t helped me feel motivated to exercise. This sports bra and shorts combo from Adanola is buttery soft and features fun wrap over details which feel a bit different than most other activewear. It’s actually the only matching set I own, so I know it will get plenty of use.

Adanola Ultimate Wrap Bra, $, available at Adanola
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorPhoto Courtesy of Sadhbh O'Sullivan.

Muji Gel Ink Cap Type Ballpoint Pen 10 Color Set, $14.90


I’m quite simple at heart — if I like a pen, why bother with anything else? The Muji 0.38 ballpoint pen is so satisfying to write with. So why not get one in every color? Perfect for my reams of pointless to-do lists.

Muji Gel Ink Cap Type Ballpoint Pen 10 Color Set, $, available at Muji

Under Armour Women's UA Storm Session Vest, $120 $90


If you’ve ever gone running in the cold you know keeping warm is a delicate balancing act. Too many layers and you’re drenched in sweat, and too few and you’re just a mass of goosebumps and stiff joints. But this vest from Under Armour is water resistant, selectively insulated and lightweight. Plus, with its reflective features, it really reduces the excuses you have for not running in winter.

Under Armour Storm Session Run Vest, $, available at Under Armour
Kelly Washington, Social EditorPhoto Courtesy of Kelly Washington.

Lululemon Merino Wool-Blend Ribbed Crewneck Sweater, $128


I was looking for a cozy jumper to WFH in and found this gem from Lululemon — which I haven’t taken off since it arrived. Designed to be dressed up or down, its soft, lightweight material is naturally thermoregulating and doesn’t itch (I have sensitive skin and can be allergic to wool). Brighten up a fall fit by layering under any jacket or trench, and pair with light blue baggy jeans.

Lululemon Merino Wool-Blend Ribbed Crewneck Sweater, $, available at Lululemon

Kimeze Akin Frames, £185


I heard that lensless glasses (aka glasses for people who don’t need them) are back. This makes me feel better because I recently discovered I need to wear glasses for work. To be honest, it feels like a win because it’s something else to accessorize with. I have been after a simple, metal thin frame for everyday wear and this pair called “Akin” from black-owned brand Kimeze are the blueprint — I’m convinced this style will suit any face shape.

Kimeze Akin Frames, $, available at Kimeze
Elizabeth Gulino, Senior Writer

Daye Nude Tampons, $10.99


I’m one of those people who always has a tampon in their purse, and my weapons of choice are the ones from Daye. Not only are they super absorbent and comfortable, but they’re sustainable, too. Daye tampons have a flushable wrapper, are made with 0% plastic, and use a renewable sugarcane applicator. Periods don’t ever really feel good, sure, but being able to use these tampons does.

Daye Nude Tampons, $, available at Daye

Yellowface by R. F. Kuang, $17.39


I’m only halfway through R. F. Kuang’s novel Yellowface but already feel confident enough to recommend it to you all. You may have already seen reviews and recs of this on BookTok and your other social feeds, and I’m here to back those up. It’s a suspenseful, anxiety-inducing, and well-written satirical thriller that discusses race and appropriation in a brutally honest, sometimes unnerving, way, and I haven’t been able to put it down.

The Borough Press Yellowface by R. F. Kuang, $, available at Amazon

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