October Wrapped
Things, media, and practices I can't get enough of
October
I started October in Mexico City which really set the tone for how this month felt. Solo-trips always end up being a catalyst for change and the learning I returned with was actually one I’ve been trying to integrate for a while. Sometimes you do just need to take yourself out of your regular environment (and comfort zone) to gain a new perspective on your progress.
This year has been one of the most mentally challenging years of my life. I’ve experienced the lowest of lows and not enough highs but am slowly trying to see the beauty in all the small moments that make a beautiful and fulfilling life. I’m also learning how to not over-intellectualize my emotions and “fixing myself”. We’re jumping ahead a little but I just restarted EMDR in therapy this week and I’m looking forward to rewiring my brain a little.
As the weather gets cooler, rather than looking at winter as a period of doom and gloom, I’m choosing to see it as season of rest and recovery instead. Without knowing, I started seeing rest as something I have to work towards or earn which doesn’t make sense at all. We shouldn’t have to fight for rest so I’m aiming to make it a priority in November.
This month’s wrapped includes some new holy grail items, pieces that I find myself re-wearing, and things I’ve consumed that have stayed with me all month. I hope you find something new to love.
Loving
Keeping a reading journal
I’ve never been an avid GoodReads review writer or reader (though I do use it to track my reading challenge). When I want to share something about my reading life, it usually goes in a reading round up here or on TikTok but to keep track of my thoughts I have a reading journal. In this journal I jot down notes from my reading, moments I want to remember, questions that come up, and a general review once I’m done. In her new vlog, Malissa talks about writing a 1–2 sentence summary of what a piece is about as a fun challenge, and I totally agree. I’m super excited to continue this practice (I’ve started adding reviews about films and shows) and would highly recommend adding it to your journaling practice!
Aestura AtoBarrier365 Cream
I didn’t love this moisturizer the first time I used it but after falling in love with the Prequel AM/PM Daily Moisturizer and being unable to repurchase it in Canada, I tried to hunt down as close of a product as possible and rediscovered the AtoBarrier 365 cream. Now it’s my go-to moisturizer for AM and PM and acts a great base when I use a more intense retinol.
A313
I’ve been using this French pharmacy favorite quite consistently this year and have noticed an overall smoothing and clearness to my skin. I mix a small amount with the AtoBarrier 365 cream because it can cause a lot of itchiness/stinging and the cream eliminates that completely. They do carry it at Sephora now but it’s significantly marked up!! Yay for convenience but if you are going to France (or someone you know is) definitely buy it there instead.
Powerself by Initio Parfums Prive
A surprising new perfume love. When I read the notes I was intrigued by how this would smell because it contains quite a few of my favorites. It was not what I expected it to smell like at all and was far more fem and sweet than my usual scents but somehow I got absolutely hooked.
On me, I get the white rose and magnolia first but the two actually creates this sweet, juicy, berry floral note. It’s also an absolute powerhouse of a scent so although the musk does start to come out more as you wear it, those floral mid notes stick around all day as well.
Consuming
Christy
I got invited to an advance screening of Christy with Sydney Sweeney and WOW. I love going into a movie blind because it makes for a far more exciting viewing and I’d highly recommend doing that with this one. Do check the trigger warnings but this movie truly triggered so much feminine rage in me (in the best way possible?). I also want to start taking boxing now.
Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud
I discovered Fashion Neurosis shortly before I went through a podcast listening slump this year. Now that I’m slowly trying to reintroduce different media formats and looking for inspiring people and media to consume, I’ve rediscovered (and completely fallen in love with) this series. Bella Freud invites different guests to come lay on her couch and talk about the psychological connection between fashion, culture, and identity. The audio version is available everywhere but I’d recommend checking her YouTube for the video podcast. It’s BEAUTIFUL.
Re-wearing
V-neck sweaters
I purchased the brown Nothing Written v-neck sweater last winter and it became a closet staple. This year I invested in a Almina Concepts one in grey and these two sweaters are pretty much all I wear.
StillHere New York Everyday Jean
The name is honestly so apropo because after investing in these last year they’ve really been worn to death all throughout the year. I wear this one the most (classic blue). It’s just incredibly versatile. I have the dark wash versions on my to-buy list.
UGG micro mini*
I got gifted the UGG Micro Minis this year for campaign and was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I thought I’d still be reaching for my platform UGGs (bought it myself last year) the most but some how have worn this one way more. The low cut style makes it easy to slip on like a slipper and pair great with slouchy pants.
Snapping
