What I Was Loving in September

Well hello, October, old friend. It’s good to see you.

We waved “so-long” to September yesterday, and today I’m thrilled to greet one of my favorite months of the year! October will bring all the last-minute wedding details, Halloween, and hopefully some cooler weather. RVA still hasn’t gotten the memo that it’s autumn, and the temperatures are in the high 80’s! Definitely not conducive to shooting sweaters and layers. But I’m so thankful for all the fun favorites September brought along, so let’s jump straight on in!

Outfit Details

blazer c/o Macy’s | top c/o Macy’s | pants c/o Macy’s | similar bag | earrings c/o Sugarfix | similar booties

Favorite Clothing Items

Well, to say I was impressed by Macy’s this past month would be a major understatement. I shopped there as a kid, but lost sight of their importance as an adult. During a collaboration to celebrate their #FindRemarkable campaign and fall fashion event, I did some serious online browsing, along with in-store shopping. Not only did I find some steals for myself, but my mom even ended up purchasing her mother-of-the-bride dress and shoes there (and saved big time, I might add)! That being said, my favorite clothing item of September were these pants – a.k.a. my first pair of Levi’s ever!

I haven’t even had a chance to photograph so many of the items I purchased in September. It has been so hot and rainy! But I’ve worn this top more times than I can count, and constantly receive compliments on it. I think I’ll be getting more colors soon!

This cardigan is definitely a new obsession of mine. It’s incredibly soft and slouchy. I love the oversized fit so much, and even find myself reaching for it in the middle of my day, when I need something cozy to wear while I’m sitting at my desk.

Favorite Accessories

Over a year ago, I purchased a blush-colored tote to carry around all my stuff. Something that could fit my laptop, camera, planner, etc. and I was pleasantly surprised with how well my bag held up. I couldn’t believe my eyes when they brought it back this season in black! I snatched it up immediately and don’t regret it one bit.

In my opinion, white sneakers will never go out of style. I’m not talking about those chunky “dad sneaks” that are becoming popular lately, but lightweight, classic tennis shoes that can be worn with anything. I love this pair I picked up recently!

Not your typical accessory, but I discovered the beauty of this bra when I received the dress I’ll be wearing to my bridal shower (don’t worry – dress pics will be coming soon). The neckline on the dress was almost halter-style, while the back had large cut-outs. I was concerned because my strapless bra had too thick of a band, so it was visible in the back, and I couldn’t pull off a normal bra without the straps showing. I actually cried tears of joy when I put on this bra and it worked perfectly beneath the dress. It’s also incredibly comfortable!

Favorite Beauty Items

Maybe it’s the changing season or maybe it’s just a preference of mine, but I can’t get enough of darker eyeshadow looks lately! So yet again, I gravitate towards this palette I received last Christmas as a gift from my sister. It provides endless options!

This is the only lotion my skin seems to like anymore. I get very dry, itchy skin throughout the cooler months (and even the warmer ones, sometimes) so I find myself slathering up on a regular basis. Plus, the scent is nearly nonexistent!

I’ve been carrying this lip product in my purse, because I’m really not the biggest lipstick fan ever, and it’s perfect in those moments where I’d like a little extra color plus some moisture! I have it in a pretty summery shade right now, but I’ll be picking up a darker neutral tone soon.

Favorite Books

Alright, time for every Potterhead ever to want me locked away in Azkaban, but I confess I’ve never read the Harry Potter books all the way through. Being that I’m also a major bookworm, and swear to read every book before watching the movie, this is a real failure. In my defense, I was overly terrified as a child, waited til I was an adult to read the books, and then after the first book, thought, “Oh I’ll just watch the first movie …” I’ve watched all eight movies more times than I can count, but have never finished reading the book series. So, my goal is to pour through them before the wedding. I’m about to begin “Prisoner of Azkaban” and I’m just eating them up!

I also got a chance to read “The Hating Game” which was unexpectedly delightful. I pride myself in being a total fantasy/sci-fi book nerd, but I took a chance on this romance novel, and found it to be the perfect balance of fluff and an actually decent storyline.

Favorite Movies & TV Shows

After much persuading from my parents, I decided to binge-watch This Is Us before the season 3 premiere. I’m pretty shocked I only teared up once, but I will say it is excellently-acted. I love the cast dearly, and the plot is gripping.

I just began Manifest and I’m already hooked! It’s got some Heroes-like elements, with acting by Josh Dallas (fondly known for his role as Prince Charming in Once Upon a Time).

If you couldn’t already tell, I’m pretty psyched about the fall TV line-up! I’m getting my laughs in with The Good Place and can’t wait to see where this season takes the show.

Favorite Food & Drinks

Alright, so to be honest, I haven’t been enjoying as much as I typically would, because it’s a nuisance to take out my Invisalign, brush my teeth after eating, and put it back in any time I want a snack. However, I did discover the new café, Bravo Rocco, at Stony Point Fashion Park, and thoroughly enjoyed their autumn spice latte (not sweet, quite spicy, and a great option for people like me who don’t like PSLs). You could also file this under “favorite spots“!

Another beverage, of course, is my mom’s spiced mocha (I shared the recipe for it here). This is a favorite of mine all day, every day – but especially around this time of year!

Favorite Music

Thank you, Lauren Daigle, for releasing one of my favorite albums ever. I have been listening to this on repeat and can’t get enough. Sometimes I even fall asleep to it at night.

And the award for the most outstanding vocals goes to Tori Kelly. Her song, “Masterpiece,” is one of my favorites when I’m getting ready in the morning. It totally pumps me up! I just wish I had the chops to sing it as phenomenally!

Of course, I was counting down the days until Logic released his latest album. If you give it a listen, make sure to hear every song in order. There’s a flow to this album like none other.

Favorite Blog Posts

I couldn’t believe my luck taking the photos for this post. There was zero traffic, the rain had just cleared up, and it was comfortably cool outside. I absolutely love the outfit, as well!

Breaking fashion rules is my specialty, so writing this post seemed only fitting. Plus, I wear the pieces all.the.time and can truly attest to their greatness!

Your Favorite Blog Posts

Not surprisingly, you all agreed with my first choice for favorite!

In second place was this post, which got an insane amount of Pinterest traffic. Thanks pinning babes!

It must be the time of year, because this post that I wrote in January (but edited last month) seems to be getting loads of love all over again!

Happy October-ing!