3/ The Simplicity Collection from Aera
This little home fragrance machine helps keep my home smelling pet-free, and their latest collection – citrus, lavender, white tea, sandalwood, cherry blossom, and vanilla – are the perfect scents for this transitional time of year.
4/ Saya Designs Taro Hair Stick
I’ve been using this gorgeous hair stick constantly in lieu of hair elastics. It helps keep my hair from breaking off and the dark, reddish rosewood paired with golden tamarind is just beautiful.
5/ Eastside Design Co. Enamel Pins
Are you an enamel pin junky, too? These little guys from a college friend’s shop are my latest additions.
1/ Birthday Box: Twenty Birthday Cards
This box of twenty birthday cards created by five different artists has saved my butt not once, but twice this month alone. Every single one is gorgeous and printed on thick paper stock, so it won’t look like you forgot to pick up a card.
3/ Petit Collage 5pc Mealtime Set (Dinosaurs)
Petit Collage offers the best modern designed children’s toys and decor, and it’s al sustainably made. I picked up a few things for two of my cousins’ birthdays this month, including this mealtime set. Get 15% off your purchase with code DESIGNCRUSH.
4/ Kristen Ess The One Signature Shampoo and Conditioner
I took some travel sizes of these along when I had to travel last month and really fell in love with the way they made my hair feel. The scent is more powerful than most hair products I’ve tried, but I don’t dislike it and feel like it helps cover any second day hair smell.
5/ MyChelle Lip Hints
These conditioning lip balms have been valuable players in keeping my dry winter lips moisturized. The light tints are a nice added bonus.
6/ Sqwishful Pop Up Sponges
These guys are 100% renewable plant-based, 100% biodegradable, and compressed to reduce their carbon footprint. And they come in a fun shape.
7/ Striped Knit Crop Jumpsuit
Wish you could wear your pajamas all day? Get this jumpsuit. Not only does it make you look super pulled together, but I guarantee lots of compliments will follow. (Note: I’m 5’2″ and it fits to my ankles, not cropped.)
1/ Bomber Jacket
I’ve been on a bit of a shopping hiatus for clothing since early last summer, but this past weekend I picked up a few pieces for spring. One was this olive green bomber jacket that’s a great weight for those in between days when the weather can’t make up its mind.
2/ Dove Derma Care Scalp Dryness & Itch Relief Conditioner
My scalp has been do dry and itchy this winter that when I came across this conditioner I knew I had to try it. It’s incredibly soothing to massage into your scalp during showers and rinses out without any residue. I’ve definitely noticed an improvement since I started using it last month.
3/ Hand Poured Soy Wax Candles Kit
I’m a big fan of the three kits I’ve tried from The Crafter’s Box, but I’m really enjoying the results of this candle kit. This week I’ve been burning the bergamot-rosemary one I created a few months ago and the depth of fragrance is completely wonderful.
4/ Metallic Arm Retro Sunglasses
My addiction to sunglasses runs deep, but I couldn’t pass up this pair for an upcoming trip to the desert. They’re a little glam and a little boho all at the same time… and pink.
5/ Method Experiential Body Wash in Energy Boost
For the past few years I’ve used Method’s body washes off and on and always been especially impressed with their fragrances. This citrus/ginger/sea buckthorn combo is a great jolt to my senses and washes off really cleanly.
6/ Mint & Argan Lip Balm
If you love seriously minty lip balm like me, then you’ll love this one from Grove Collaborative. It’s the type that leaves your lips tingling while being super hydrating and full of antioxidants and essential fatty acids for healthy lips.
7/ Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
The backs of your hands show age nearly as much as your face, so for years I’ve made a habit of moisturizing right before bed. I rotate between a few different brands, but always end up coming back to this classic during the winter months.
8/ Essential Oils Set
My mom gave me this set of essential oils for Christmas last year and I’ve been using them in my diffuser daily. The eight scents include lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, lemongrass, orange, peppermint, frankincense, and rosemary.
9/ Pink + Gold Round Brass Enamel Tray
Another gift from my mom, this brass enamel tray is a great size to place on top of my living room side table or load up with candles on the coffee table. Come warmer weather it’ll be a great tray to use while entertaining, too.
1/ Adagio Teas Glass Water Kettle
I’ve owned this kettle for a year or two and absolutely love it. This month reminded me just how much and I’ve been using it for everything from heating water for tea to watering my plants!
2/ DeLonghi Radia S Eco Digital Full Room Radiant Heater
My stepdad gave me (and my old house) this room heater for Christmas to help cut down on the gas bill. It’s completely silent, has an energy-saving ECO function, a bunch of safety features, and so much more.
3/ Stoneware Mug
Another Christmas gift, these mugs feel very substantial in your hand and I really like their handmade look.
4/ La Croix Key Lime Sparkling Water
I’m really into the latest flavor from La Croix – Key Lime. It has more flavor that their regular lime flavor and it helps me cut back on my one-a-day soda habit.
6/ Gilchrist & Soames Camden Set
I was sent a few sets of bath sheets, hand towels, and washcloths earlier in January and love them. Super soft, super luxurious, and perfect for the chilly wintery transition from birthday suit to clothing.
7/ DW Home Tobacco Noir
My favorite candle lately has been this one that smells of tobacco, vanilla musk, and tonka beans. It’s a lovely, heavier scent perfect for winter months.
8/ Sally Hansen Big Cuticle Oil
This coconut-infused oil has been helping my nail beds stay nice and hydrated with less hangnails.
9/ Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek in Swish
I’d been wanting to try something from this line for months, and when my blush got low I picked this up. The color is a fantastic bright pink that can be worn sheer or layered up for more coverage.
1/ 3 Pack of Assorted Mini Air Plants
After the sad little air plant (tillandsia) that never grew, but that I’d managed to keep alive for three years, kicked the bucket last month I picked up some new babies/victims. I also bought some for my Grandma as a Christmas gift because she’s another plant lover and had never heard of them! Now to keep those alive for at least a few weeks…
2/ 7 ft Pre-Lit Alberta Spruce Tree
I picked up this tree last year post-holiday season and love it! The lights are so bright that I don’t plan on using any lamps in my living room until I take it down in January, and the white branches create such a pretty canvas for all of my ornaments.
3/ House Bud Vase
If you haven’t checked out Target’s Hearth & Hand collection yet please do so, because it’s one of the best I’ve seen there in many years. Along with a few large vases and potholders, I picked up one of these house bud vases to add to my collection.
4/ Bombas Socks
I love a buy one/give one business model, so I couldn’t resist when Bombas asked me to check out their socks. My expectations weren’t all that high and I ended up being beyond impressed – no stretching out and no slouching down! Right now get 20% off using code COZY20, and returning customers can get 20% off any holiday product using FAVORITES20.
5/ IKEA 365+ Glasses
These short little glasses are perfect for so many things, though I uses them most frequently for wine. They’re safe for both hot and cold temperatures and can act as glasses or bowls, and for $3.99/6 pack you can’t beat ’em.
6/ Tatiana Loafers
Loafers are everywhere this autumn, and I couldn’t resist this burgundy suede pair. The first time I wore them I received so many compliments that I knew I’d made the right call. They’re also available in desert rose and metallic leather options. Right now ABLE is offering free shipping on all jewelry orders and all orders over $99.
7/ Case Study Planters
I’ve owned three of these for a few years now, but every time I water my plants I’m reminded of just how well-crafted and beautiful they are. The planters themselves are available in both black and white pottery while the plinths and stands have a light and dark wood option.
8/ Aera Diffuser
This is a new addition to my battle against having a home that smells like my pets. Since I started using it about two weeks ago my home has been smelling consistently good. Aera has an adjustable strength setting and is so quiet that I hardly notice it’s working. Oh, and it works with your smartphone!
9/ Trap Pitcher
You just can’t wrong with a simple glass pitcher. This one was a Black Friday purchase last year that I use for water, cocktails, and even as a vase. It’s just the right size – not too big and not too small – at about 9-inches tall.
1/ Burt’s Bees Natural Throat Drops Honey and Lemon
Seems like everyone has already suffered their first cold of the season, and I’m no exception. Mine lasted about a week and a half and I swear these throat drops saved me from losing my mind from coughing. They’re all natural, which made them more palatable too.
2/ Fifty Type Specimens: From the Collection of Tobias Frere-Jones
These postcards from Frere-Jones’ personal collection will be loved by any type nerd. I’m looking forward to sending some out in the mail soon to brighten the day of some graphic designer friends!
3/ Gretchen Christine Vegan Leather Embroidered Convertible Tote
A sizable bag that’s perfect for toting along a ton of stuff – including my laptop some days – this bag is on point with the embroidery trend this autumn. It’s really well made and will make a great piece all winter.
4/ Honeycrisp Apples
These have been my favorite apple variety for a few years now. If you’ve never ha done before they’re super crisp and fragrant with a sweet-tart taste that varies depending on how ripe the fruit is.
5/ It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
I will never tire of watching holiday specials from my childhood. I’ve watched this one twice in October and will probably squeeze in one more viewing tonight after trick or treating wraps up. (Please, remember never to jump in a pile of leaves with a wet sucker!)
6/ Maybelline Dream Velvet Foundation
After running out of my go-to MAC foundation a few months ago I picked up a tube of this on a Target run and was pleasantly surprised! The whipped gel formula gives my skin a soft matte finish while also hydrating – basically unheard of.
7/ Orange Clove Signature Soy Jar Candle
While this candle smells more like a bonfire to me, I still really like it. The fragrance permeates most of the first floor and even manages to make its way upstairs.
8/ Record Storage Cube
I have one of these birch cubes with a plexiglas garage front in my living room, it acts as a sweet little stand for my portable Crosby turntable and favorite vinyl. The plexiglas is available in 13 colors as well as a wood option.
9/ Google Home
Yeah, I’m a little late to the party but I’m here. So far I love telling it to play music at any given moment as well as the phone functionality.
1/ Prolong Christmas Tree Preservative
Before you think I’ve completely lost it and have a tree up in September, let me assure that’s not the case. This stuff is also a great preservative for fresh flowers! You just add a few teaspoons to the water in your vase and it magically adds days of life to each stem.
2/ Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb
I’ve tried some Garnier products before but they were never a great fit for my skin. That is until I came across a sample of this moisturizer in a magazine. I use it every other day with the rest of my evening skin routine and love how velvety soft it leaves my face feeling.
3/ Pumpkin Spice Cheerios
Pumpkin spice flavor doesn’t usually do much for me – I loathe PSLs – but I picked up a box of this on a whim last week and was pleasantly surprised. The cereal is coated in a mix of real pumpkin and just the right blend of spices without being too sweet. (I’m currently on my second box.)
4/ Geometric Throw Pillow
Story old as time, I ran into Target to grab a birthday gift for my aunt and came out with two of these pillows for my couch. They were on mega-sale!
5/ Happy Halloween Ivy Wall Plaque
On the same trip I picked up this little sign for my door. It’s the only Halloween or fall decoration I have up at the moment, but I’m hoping to change all that this weekend and go all out.
6/ Blistex Conditioning Lip Serum
This is more of a cream than a serum, but while I think it’s misnamed I do like the product. It comes in a little pump bottle and I’ve been using it before bed as an extra dose of moisture/preemptive measure against winter dryness.
7/ Reliq Mineral Dog Shampoo
My dog Bebe is super duper cute and super duper stinky. I’ve even had her tested for medical maladies because of it, but no, she’s just a smelly little half Yorkie that I love endlessly. Her of brand of perfume really intensifies in hot weather and this is basically a miracle in a bottle. It’s the only shampoo I’ve found that can rid her completely of stink and I can’t recommend it more if you’ve got a similar situation going on at your house.
1/ The Crafter’s Box
The Crafter’s Box brings together experienced makers who curate a unique box of tools and materials to build something beautiful. One box/project is released each month with delivery to your door and an online workshop to guide you. I’m working on this large-scale stenciled linen throw at the moment.
2/ Soo Ae Charcoal Clay Bubble Mask
Using activated binchotan charcoal, kaolin bentonite clay, and oxygen bubbles this mask puffs up and looks hilarious all while purifying, brightening, and refining your skin. It only takes up about five minutes of your time and will leave your face baby smooth.
3/ Poise Accessory Tray
I’d been looking for a way to organize my most worn earrings, bracelets, and pins when I came across this brass double-decker tray. It’s a great size and I love the minimal look.
4/ Giant Zinnias
My mom and stepdad planted these guys for the first time this year and ended up with a bumper crop! I pillaged what was left last weekend and made a note to add some to my own yard next spring.
5/ The Mac & Gold Truck
If you’re in Pittsburgh, you need to check these guys out – it’s all mac ‘n cheese all the time. I had some with BBQ brisket and fried onions that has me salivating at the memory.
6/ Leona’s Ice Cream Sandwiches
Leona’s is a Pittsburgh legend, small batch ice cream pints and sandwiches using local dairy and ingredients in the most interesting pairings. Oh, and it’s all lactose-free. This one was peanut butter cookie with strawberry ice cream.
7/ Caramel Wallet
I haven’t owned a proper wallet in at least five years, but when I saw Sseko Designs’ minimal caramel wallet in buttery leather I had to have it. It holds the few cards and cash I carry with my daily and helps end the cycle of poverty by educating and empowering women. Win-win.
1/ Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque
I’ve been using this super affordable, very refreshing face masque a few times a month since seeing Jessica recommend it on her site. Just slather it on, wait 15-20 minutes for it to dry, then wipe off with a warm washcloth. It smells so good and has been key in drying up pesky pimples.
2/ Lady Bell Bell Peppers
This is the first year I’m growing peppers since moving back to PA (they were disastrous in Oklahoma), and the four plants I have in pots are doing great! Each one has about four peppers that should be ready to pick in a few more weeks.
3/ SOO AE My Collagen Hydrogel Lip Patch
Plumping lip glosses have never been my thing, but this slippery little lip mask intrigued me with it’s promises. While I only noticed minimal plumping, what I loved was how it left my lips feeling super smooth.
4/ Duster Kimono
This kimono accidentally “fell” into my cart last weekend at Target. I don’t have a ton of color in my wardrobe and that blue just called out to me to dress up jeans and a tee or a sundress.
5/ Chenille Plant
This chenille plant on my back porch is the best thing I planted this year! I love its personality and unusual fuchsia flowers that resemble a cat’s tail.
6/ Simple Micellar Makeup Remover Wipes
These wipes are my first foray into using micellar water, which is touted as a makeup removing magnet. They’re really gentle and seem to do their job well – exactly what I look for in all of skincare products.
7/ Feya Candles
All of their candles smell amazing (I’m burning the lemongrass sage right now) and their mission is based on giving back. It’s a win-win that I’m happy to take advantage of!
8/ Sseko Rue Ankle Strap Sandals
These sandals are responsibly made, super comfortable, AND give back. I also love that the accent on the toe strap can be switched out with any number of different designs – it’s like owning several pairs of shoes in one. Great if you’re into a capsule wardrobe.
9/ Dove Purely Pampering Coconut Milk with Jasmine Petals Body Wash
My Grandma gave me a bottle of this last month and I’m am in love with the scent as well as the way it makes my skin feel. My home has hard water which can dry my skin out, and this body wash is so moisturizing that even if I forgot to put on lotion after a shower I hardly notice.
1/ Super Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes
I’ve been doing container gardens for the past few years, and this summer I ventured into the world of cherry tomatoes, Sweet 100s specifically. They’re a vining variety that are deliciously meaty and sweet. Last week I was able to start picking a few day as they ripen and my salad game has gone up a notch!
2/ Mom’s Stuff All-Purpose Piñon Salve
I started using Mom’s Stuff a few years ago after meeting Mom’s daughter and trying out a sample. Each jar is handmade from all natural ingredients that deeply moisturize, soothe, and protect your skin and there are no filler ingredients like water, cheap oils, or stabilizers. Lately I’ve been dabbing some on bug bites for comfort.
3/ Illume Candles Vanity Tins
Illume Candles first entered my life back in college, when I bought two delicious smelling candles for more than I could afford. I’m loving the design of their Vanity Tins and the scents are just as good as ever!
4/ Pineapple Sage
It was the pineapple-scented leaves that caused me to pick up one of these to plant this year. In late summer they bloom bright red, tube-shaped blooms that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
5/ La Colombe Draft Latte
This is the treat I’ve been reaching for on hot summer mornings! Lactose-free milk and cold pressed espresso make for a slightly sweet drink without any added sugar.
6/ Kristin Ess Instant Lift Thickening Spray
Forever on the search for the perfect hair product that will give my fine hair more oomph, and this spray has become the top contender. You don’t need to use a ton, it’s not super sticky, and the smell is amazing.
7/ Lou & Grey Linen Racerback Tank (50% off!)
I picked up black and grey ones a few weeks ago and have been more or less living in them. They hit my short(ish) torso in just the right spot and the cut is super flattering.
8/ Carmex Comfort Care Colloidal Oatmeal Lip Balm
As a lip balm-aholic you can take my word that this stuff is the real deal. Its blend of natural colloidal oatmeal and cold-pressed antioxidant rich fruit seed oil provides long-lasting moisture for visibly smoother lips.
9/ Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
A collection of poetry and prose about survival, about the experience of violence, abuse, love, loss, and femininity. And how to find the sweetness in all areas of life.
