stella’s favorite things – october

posted by Kate Even on October 31, 2025 (last updated Mar 17, 2026)

October has arrived, and I am officially in my element! There is something so incredibly soulful about this month—the way the air turns crisp and cool, the leaves begin their vibrant transformation into shades of gold and amber, and everything just feels a little more intentional. It’s the season of “cozying up,” where we trade our breezy linens for soft knits and start finding every excuse to light a fire and fill the house with the scent of something delicious simmering on the stove.

For me, October is all about embracing that beautiful shift toward home and heart. Between weekend trips to the apple orchard and those long, misty morning walks with the family, I’m soaking in every bit of this Northeast magic. It’s the perfect time to slow down, lean into those layers, and turn our spaces into the ultimate autumn sanctuaries. So, grab your favorite oversized mug and a warm blanket, and let’s dive into my October favorites, all curated to help you feel wrapped in comfort and inspired by the beauty of the season!

OCTOBER LOOKS

As we lean into those cooler October mornings, I’ve been reaching for pieces that make staying cozy feel like a total luxury. The Splendid Nala Zip-Up Sweater Hoodie has become an absolute staple for those early walks; it’s just so incredibly soft and pairs perfectly with the Splendid Yasmina Ruched Tee for a look that’s relaxed but still feels feminine and polished. When I want something with a bit more of a “cool-girl” edge, I’ve been living in my finds from Michael Lauren. The Fairbanks Evergreen sweater is such a gorgeous, rich shade for the season, and I’m equally obsessed with the Magdaleno Cobalt and the Rem Black tops when I need a more elevated look—they have that perfectly lived-in feel that makes them the ultimate weekend evening uniform.

For those days when I’m craving total, effortless comfort, I’ve found some amazing gems at Aerie that feel like a warm hug. The Aerie Chorewear Popover Sweatshirt is my new go-to for running errands, and I can’t get enough of the Aerie Oh Snap! Sweatshirt—it’s just so playful and easy to throw on. For an extra layer of warmth, the Aerie Sherpa Henley is pure indulgence, and the AE Long Sleeve Square Neck T-Shirt is the perfect base layer that adds a touch of sophistication to a casual look.

I’ve also been stocking up on those quintessential Free People layers that truly define autumn style. The We The Free Everything Pullover is exactly what the name suggests—it goes with everything and feels so cozy for a misty morning. For those crisp afternoons at the orchard, the Wide Awake Layering Top is a dream for adding a bit of texture to your outfit, making you feel perfectly put-together while staying completely comfortable.

To round out my October favorites, I’ve been leaning into classic stripes that never go out of style. The We The Free Good Good Stripe Turtleneck is simply stunning for layering under a jacket, and the Restoration Yarn Dye Stripe Layer adds that perfect pop of visual interest to a simple pair of jeans. Whether I’m cozying up by the fire or headed out for a family hike, these pieces are making me feel so refreshed and ready for all the magic this month has in store!

ELEVATED LOOKS

When I want to take that cozy October feeling and elevate it into something truly special, I’ve been reaching for these incredible investment pieces that feel like a total indulgence. I am completely obsessed with the Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Rib Oversized Notch Collar Blazer—it has that cloud-like softness the brand is famous for but in such a polished, structured silhouette. For those slower mornings at home, the CozyChic Chevron Rib Cardigan is my absolute go-to; it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm hug while still looking effortlessly chic. To keep things moving, I’ve been living in my APL TechLoom Zipline sneakers in that beautiful Navy/Ivory/Gum combo—they are the perfect blend of performance and style for a busy day of errands.

To add a bit of sophisticated edge to my autumn wardrobe, I’ve found some stunning pieces that truly make a statement. The L’Agence Celina Leather Trench Coat is an absolute vision; the leather is so buttery and it adds such a timeless, high-fashion energy to any look. I’m also loving the L’Agence Jair Jacquard Fringe Cardigan for its beautiful texture and artisanal feel. For those finishing touches of sparkle, the Shy Creation Aleera Two-Tone Diamond Cross Pendant Necklace is simply stunning, offering just the right amount of elegance for everyday wear. To pull it all together, the Saint Laurent Polka-Dot Modal-Blend Scarf and Louis Vuitton LV Pure Low Oval Sunglasses are my go to accessory.

FALL MAKEUP MUST HAVES

As the air turns crisper, I’ve been reaching for beauty essentials that create that perfect, effortless French-girl aesthetic. I am absolutely loving the Violette_FR Bisou Balm—the shades Bêtise and Guimauve are my new go-tos for achieving that “just-bitten” look. They have this incredible blurred, matte finish that feels more like a hydrating balm than a lipstick, giving the lips a soft, romantic flush that is just so dreamy for October.

To add a bit of seasonal shine, I’ve also been playing with the Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss Moisturizing Glossimer. I’ve picked up a few different shades to suit whatever mood the autumn weather brings, and the formula is just divine—it’s high-shine and intensely hydrating without ever feeling sticky. To complete the look, I’ve been leaning into Chanel’s iconic eyeshadows to create a soft, smokey eye that feels both sophisticated and timeless. These little luxuries are making my beauty routine feel like such a pampering ritual as we head into the heart of fall!