Updated on Dec. 23, 2023
From pumpkin-scented decor to a spooky bat wine opener, here are the products our shopping editors can't stop talking about in October.
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Now that the leaves are (finally) changing colors and the weather is in peak condition for wearing our cozy gear without needing to seriously bundle up just yet, spooky season has officially arrived. To help you get the most out of cozy season, our shopping editors are sharing their favorite finds that add joy to their everyday lives. Discover the best Dutch oven for soup season, gift-worthy chocolate and more.
Because it’s simply not fall without pumpkin-scented everything, my current home decor obsession for cozy season is this glass pumpkin-shaped candle from Target’s beloved Threshold collection. I’ve collected pretty much every size and scent this candle comes in, and I love the cozy ambiance it exudes while lit on my shelf or mantle. Even when it’s not lit it doubles as chic seasonal decor, which is a total win-win. When I’ve burned every last bit of pumpkin spice goodness, I will definitely be cleaning out the vessel to reuse it year after year—or as a Halloween candy jar!
–Madi Koetting, Associate Shopping Editor
“I love decorating every inch of my space for fall and Halloween—and yes, that includes my bar cart. This bat wine opener from OTOTO is the so-cute-its-scary accessory I’m using all. season. long. Vino is adorable, yes, but he’s also incredibly functional. His fangs cut through the foil on top of your wine, and as you twist the corkscrew, his wings expand like he’s about to take flight. He’s my trusty sidekick for everything from spooky movie nights to tailgate parties.”
–Katie Bandurski, Senior Shopping EditorÂ
“I’ll confess that I didn’t understand the obsession with soup until I began cooking for myself as an adult. With my trusty Caraway Dutch oven by my side, I realized cozy fall bowls can be so much more than the standard chicken noodle and chili. When I’m stirring up deliciously different favorites, like dill pickle soup and Thai shrimp soup, I always, always, always use the deservedly popular pot. The nonstick surface is a dream, and the size is just right for my two-person household. When it’s not in use, it’s displayed like an ornament on my stovetop. The cream color and sleek silver handle look gorgeous in my space.”
–Annamarie Higley, Shopping EditorÂ
ICYMI: A candle warmer lamp is the chic, non-toxic way to enjoy your favorite scents on repeat. I can’t stop talking about this glass candle warmer lamp for its gorgeous glass shade and dimmable light. Instead of burning through candle wax, the lamp gently melts your favorite scent after a few hours of warming. But the best part is how much longer candles last thanks to this beauty. I’ve been warming the same candle for months which makes me feel better about investing in high-quality (read: pricey) vessels. Plus, you can’t beat the cozy glow it emits whether on the side table, a desk or in my case, the kitchen counter next to my favorite cookbooks.
–Madi Koetting, Associate Shopping Editor
“October is the ideal time to brew Kom-BOO-cha. Not only do the lower temperatures reduce the likelihood of over-fermentation (aka explosive messes), but the acidic, bubbly beverage also lends itself well to fall flavors like pumpkin, apple spice and maple syrup. I love that this Farm Steady Kombucha Making Kit has everything needed to start brewing batches of booch. It comes with a SCOBY, a half-gallon fermentation jar and premium green tea, plus a few other must-haves for the discerning drinker. For those interested in taking up kombucha as a hobby, I highly recommend bundling this kit with Farm Steady’s Guide to Kombucha. The book includes recipes, tips and troubleshooting guides—all priceless help for beginners!”
–Emily Way, Associate Shopping EditorÂ
“I know, I know—what’s so special about a chocolate bar? But hear me out! I just discovered Miss Maude’s, and it’s truly a party in your mouth. The bars come with fun names, like Resort Rendezvous or Après-Ski, but the real magic happens inside. Each bar includes eight pieces, and each piece has a different flavor. In the Resort Rendezvous bar, for example, you’ll get one piece with rum caramel, one with dragonfruit, one with coffee and more. It’s like a little tasting every time you unwrap one! I recommend going with the gift box—available in milk chocolate or dark chocolate—so you get five bars to try.”
–Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, Senior Shopping EditorÂ
