As a first-time viewer of the cult-favorite ’90s film Practical Magic and writer of Refinery29’s monthly reader bestsellers roundup, I noticed something in October: Our top-bought products and this fantastical Halloween movie (following the lives of two witches with terrible love lives) both emit dangerously potent levels of fall whimsy. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman tossed their luscious tresses beneath autumn foliage while Refinery29 readers scooped up blazers, cozy sheet sets, and moisturizing lip masks. That iconic Anthropologie-esque home put a sparkle in my eye, as R29 readers put advent calendars in their carts. So if you’re delving into the fall spirit at full-throttle, October’s reader bestsellers are a must-see, to say the least.
Not a member of the pumpkin spice brigade? Fret not. Beneath the piles of long-sleeve dresses and balaclavas were timeless discounted buys from two major sale events: Amazon Prime Big Deal Days and Way Day 2023 — we’re talking dashing accent cabinets, top-rated tech, and editor-adored mattresses. Plus, some luxury travel finds, soul-snatching vibrators, and hair-boosting serums made their way into the mix. So, while I still don’t 100% understand how (spoiler alert) Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman got away with murder in Practical Magic, I do know one thing: Refinery29 readers carted some fun, functional, and fall-ready products all October long. Scroll on to see for yourself.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Coach Penn Shoulder Bag
Coach bags are both a TikTok and R29-reader favorite. We tested out its new, bright, and bold Shine Collection that debuted in October — specifically the crowd-pleasing Penn Shoulder Bag. According to us, the material “glistens way more in real life than it does online,” and overall, “styling it [is]a breeze.”
Shop Coach
Coach Penn Shoulder Bag In Signature Leather In Green, $, available at Coach
Lululemon Scuba Oversized Funnel-Neck Half Zip
If cold weather isn’t your jam, warm up and get some motivation to go outside with Lululemon’s cozy apparel. This Funnel-Neck Half Zip is an excellent transitional weather staple, thanks to its snuggly high-neck silhouette and breathable, cotton-blend fleece fabric. You get the best of both worlds.
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Lululemon Scuba Oversized Funnel-Neck Half Zip, $, available at Lululemon
Minted Leafy Letter
In need of a unique gift for your most sensible loved one? Skip the pack of socks and opt for some quaint, personalized stationery.
Shop Minted
Minted leafy letter, $, available at Minted
FP Movement Hit The Slopes Balaclava
In October, we corralled some of Free People’s best gifts — whether you were shopping for your favorite Scorpio or getting a head start on holiday shopping. Fortunately, they all happened to clock in under $50. This Balaclava garnered the attention of plenty of readers’ eyes, so we think it’s the perfect buy for the aprés-ski set.
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FP Movement Hit The Slopes Balaclava, $, available at Free People
Alexia Admor Diva Long Sleeve Midi Dress
According to happy, cozy customers and Refinery29 readers, Nordstrom Rack is home to the best winter dress around.
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Alexia Admor Diva Long Sleeve Midi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Fabletics All Day Every Day Low Impact Bra
Fabletics is best known for its trendy workout ‘fits and celebrity partnerships, but over at Refinery29, it’s most famous for its plus-size-perfect sports bras. Our former shopping writer Chichi Offor recommends double-checking the size chart but otherwise applauds the activewear for its stylish straps and cool patterns.
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Fabletics All Day Every Day Low Impact Bra, $, available at Fabletics
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum For Hair Density
The Ordinary’s hair-boosting serum stole the TikTok limelight last month, so naturally, our deputy beauty director, Jacqueline Kilikita, put it to the test. According to Jacqueline, “[T]here’s no doubt The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Serum is a game-changer.” According to our anonymous shopping data, readers added plenty to their October carts — perhaps it’s time to give it a try.
Shop Sephora
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, $, available at Sephora
Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4
According to pop culture Instagram account DeuxMoi, Taylor Swift’s rainproof makeup look is PatMcGrath’s doing. Now, fans can’t get enough of the brand’s matte lipstick. Which, just so happens to come in five fall-perfect shades.
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PAT McGRATH LABS LiquiLUST: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4, $, available at PAT McGRATH LABS
Aupen Nirvana
Introducing another Taylor Swift-approved brand: Aupen. In September readers adored its Fearless Re-Edition handbag, but Nirvana’s braided strap stole everyone’s heart in October. Enjoy its supple vegan leather, rich colorways, and unique silhouette when you add it to your cart.
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Aupen Nirvana, $, available at Aupen
Kiehl’s Limited Edition Holiday Advent Calendar
Kiehl’s cult-favorite products are no strangers to most beauty enthusiasts. So it makes sense that its 2023 advent calendar is selling like hotcakes. Especially since you can nab $297 worth of travel-size bestsellers for just $125. Happy holidays!
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Kiehl’s Limited Edition Holiday Advent Calendar, $, available at Kiehl’s
Goop “The Martini” Emotional Detox Bath Soak
Infused with Himalayan pink salt, Goop’s detox soap takes the edge off and soothes the soul during treacherous times (just like a happy hour martini).
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goop “The Martini” Emotional Detox Bath Soak, $, available at goop
New Balance 327 Sneakers
The vintage look is one of fall’s top sneaker trends. And, quite frankly, you can’t go wrong with a pair of New Balance’s comfy, retro kicks.
Shop Anthropologie
New Balance 327 Sneakers, $, available at Anthropologie
We The Free Camden Sweatshirt
This effortless essential is officially editor-approved. “I go weak in the knees for a good sweatshirt,” wrote our freelance affiliate writer Jinnie Lee. “[Sweatshirts] tend to look way better over time when they’re tattered and worn to death. This Free People style, as it turns out, already comes in its most slouched-out form with the inside-out look, the ripped seams, and dropped shoulders. I’d wear this all the way to Comfy Town.”
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We The Free Camden Sweatshirt, $, available at Free People
Etta Avenue Odessa Handmade Indoor Pot Planter
To both our surprise and delight Way Day made its second 2023 appearance in October. Everything from cozy sheet sets to ergonomic office chairs was up to 80% off for a full 48 hours. This indoor pot planter and its boho-chic charm, however, stole all the attention. (P.S., it’s still going for 64% off.)
Shop Wayfair
Etta Avenue Odessa Handmade Indoor Pot Planter, $, available at Wayfair
Ann Taylor The Petite One-Button Blazer in Double Knit
Sometimes the best Halloween costumes are the ones you can wear year-round. And this swanky black blazer is giving Wednesday Addams — the fashion icon, not the sinister child. She’d probably loathe that title, but she can blame the hit Netflix Wednesday for the resurgence of her dark academia aesthetic.
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Ann Taylor The Petite One-Button Blazer in Double Knit, $, available at Ann Taylor
Bellesa Pebble
Here at Refinery29, we believe suction vibrators have one job and one job only: snatching souls. Readers’ current fan favorite? Bellesa’s top-rated vibrator. It’s equipped with an ergonomic silhouette, five (non-annoying) vibration patterns, and five suction levels. Score it for only $45 with BBoutique’s on-site coupon for a limited time (just make sure to check the box beneath its “add to bag” button).
Shop BBoutique
Bellesa Pebble, $, available at BBoutique
Rhode The Rhode Kit
Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand has had an amazing 2023. Fortunately for Rhode’s devoted fanbase, it’s keeping the ball rolling with exciting product launches. In addition to the three core products, you can now find the moisturizing Glazing Serum sitting pretty in The Rhode Kit’s signature gray packaging.
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Rhode The Rhode Kit, $, available at Rhode
Andover Mills Mirabal Double Brushed Microfiber Solid Sheet Set
Whether you buy it for the under-$30 price tag or for the plush microfiber fabric, Andover Mill’s sheet set is a great find.
Shop Wayfair
Andover Mills Mirabal Double Brushed Microfiber Solid Sheet Set, $, available at Wayfair
Magic Wand Micro Rechargeable Wand Massager
Sex & Wellness Writer Charlotte Lewis was curious to see how Magic Wand’s mini massager measured up in comparison to the brand’s bestselling full-size. She was quite impressed. According to her, “Even on the micro’s lowest setting, it was mind-blowingly strong.” So much so, she “didn’t make it past the first setting because [her]clit (which has been known to be oversensitive at times) was overwhelmed with pleasure.” Needless to say, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Shop Lovehoney
Magic Wand Micro Rechargeable Wand Massager, $, available at Lovehoney
Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
The R29 Shopping team’s self-proclaimed “scoliosis cutie,” Karina Hoshikawa, swears by Casper’s hybrid bed. We’re talking ergonomic zones that cradle hips, pillow-like fabric, and a spring-foam combo interior for balanced support. No wonder she insists that it’s “supportive and amazing.”
Shop Casper
Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress, $, available at Casper
Vibes High Fidelity Invisible Hearing Protection Ear Plugs
Protect your ears with some inconspicuous and top-rated earplugs.
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Vibes High Fidelity Invisible Hearing Protection Ear Plugs, $, available at Amazon
Reformation Mimi Buckle Pump
Ironically, the Mary Jane trend makes its appearance every fall — aka, it’s truly timeless.
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Reformation Mimi Buckle Pump, $, available at Reformation
Rimowa Cabin Luggage Harness
Carry-on storage, but make it luxury with Rimowa’s nifty luggage harness. It fits electronics, tablets, and a 16-inch laptop in those spacious pockets.
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Rimowa Cabin Luggage Harness, $, available at Rimowa
Beachcrest Barros Door Faux Rattan Accent Cabinet
Another day, another excellent Wayfair buy with a steep discount. This cabinet brings a laid-back, coastal vibe to homes as well as ample storage for small spaces.
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Beachcrest Home Barros 2 – Door Faux Rattan Accent Cabinet, $, available at Wayfair
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
First comes Amazon Prime Day, then comes Amazon Prime Big Deal Days. While we don’t know which Amazon shopping holiday trumps the other, we do know the mega retailer’s one-stop-shop for entertainment is a must-have, based on our anonymous shopping data that is. Especially if you plan on conquering your holiday movie watchlist this year.
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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, $, available at Amazon
Grace & Stella Rose Quartz Gua Sha Massage Tool
If you’re looking for the ultimate at-home facelift, it’s time to invest in a (bestselling) gua sha sculpting stone.
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Grace & Stella Rose Quartz Gua Sha Massage Tool, $, available at Amazon
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Although it’s no longer on sale for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, Laneige’s moisturizing lip mask is 100% worth its full price. On-site Amazon reviewer Tiffany is head over heels. She writes, “The texture of the Laneige Sleeping Mask is just heavenly. It’s a luxurious, gel-like consistency that glides onto the skin effortlessly. It feels so soothing and refreshing when applied, which makes it an absolute delight to use before bedtime.”
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Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $, available at Amazon
Sosuo Silicone Snail Tea Bag Holders
Don’t be fooled, a useful Amazon product can also be an insanely cute Amazon product. Case in point: these candy-colored snails that seamlessly prevent your tea bags from drowning at the bottom of your mug.
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SOSUO Silicone Snail Tea Bag Holders, $, available at Amazon
Scrub Daddy Sponge Set Color Variety Pack
Ah, Scrub Daddy — one of the cleaning world’s most recognizable products. As much as we love it for its sexy name and its sponge’s eerily happy smiles, we mostly adore the brand for its effective products that always get the job done.
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Scrub Daddy Sponge Set Color Variety Pack, $, available at Amazon
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