September is already feeling so fresh—the kids are back in school, and I’m leaning into the cozy rituals that always give me a little thrill this time of year. Stocking up on new supplies for my home office, honing in my fall wardrobe essentials, and returning to my daily writing routine all feel like the reset I’ve been craving.
More than anything, though, I’ve been focusing on staying present and finding joy in the small, unplanned moments. Over the long weekend, we had one of those rare, blissful days with nothing on the calendar. Instead of filling it with the things I thought we should do, I decided to just say yes to whatever the kids wanted. We played mini golf, waited in an hour-long line at La La Land for the viral strawberry matchas (Phoebe’s dream—they were actually worth it), and made a Target run for pumpkin spice tea and a few festive little pumpkins for her room.
Our Editors’ September 2025 Picks
With no agenda other than being together, it ended up being a day I know I’ll remember—filled with laughter, connection, and the kinds of conversations I didn’t even know we needed. That’s the vibe I’m carrying into September: slowing down, leaning into simple pleasures, and remembering how good life feels when I don’t overcomplicate it.
In that spirit, I’ve rounded up my Editor Picks for September 2025—a mix of grounding, joyful finds that feel just right for a seasonal refresh.
On Our Nightstands
Arrae Tone Creatine Gummies
Like most women who are both chronically online and wellness-obsessed, creatine has been on my radar for ages. But I never found a brand that truly clicked—until now. Enter: Arrae. Their mixed berry gummies (delicious, btw) slip right into my morning supplement lineup, and within a week, I noticed a serious boost in endurance for both cardio and strength workouts. And the name? Spot on. “Tone” is exactly what these gummies deliver. If building lean muscle is also your priority, consider this your new secret weapon. – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump, which is rare for the summertime when I’m typically tearing through novel after novel. The cure? The Women by Kristin Hannah. Her best-seller, The Nightingale is one of my all-time favorite books, and The Women has the same perfect combination of historical fiction and romance. This book does come with a warning: you’ll be an emotional wreck at multiple points in the story! It’s a powerful, moving depiction of women during the Vietnam War, and the very real, complicated nature of love. – Bridget Chambers, Fashion Editor
In Our Carts
The UBeauty Duo
The only skincare I’ve been using lately is this incredibly effective duo: the Resurfacing Compound is my holy grail of exfoliation and resurfacing, while the SUPER Hydrator locks moisture into skin for 48 hours and leaves the glowiest complexion. Yes, they’re an investment—but they’ve taken the place of all the other steps in my skincare routine, so—you do the (girl) math.
Fridge to Face Blemish Defense Cooling Mist
Adding to my Sofie Pavitt praise: The best part of my morning is spritzing Fridge-to-Face Blemish mist all over my face. I’m a big believer in niacinamide for minimizing breakouts and dark spots, and this delivers my daily dose in the best way. – Langa Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Stix
I’ve been loving the brand-new Danessa Myricks Color Fix sticks on my eyes for a night out or a dinner with the girls. The iridescent finish might seem intimidating at first, but every shade is surprisingly wearable and easy to apply. Even just a dab in the corner of my eye adds a lot to a look. – Langa Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack
From someone who always has a trip on the books, say goodbye to your old backpack because this backpack/duffel is it. You can wear it like a backpack, pack it flat like a duffel, and the pockets keep everything organized. It’s lightweight but super durable, fits perfectly under an airplane seat, and the padded straps make it actually comfortable to carry through long travel days. Truly one of my holy grail travel essentials, I couldn’t recommend it more. – Anna Decker, Social Media & E-Commerce Manager
In Our Closets
Cori Italian Leather Ballet Flats
I finally found a chic Mary Jane shoe that doesn’t hurt my feet. These perforated leather ballet flats are a bit of a splurge, but already the price-per-wear has made them worth it—they look great with dresses, jeans, slacks, and shorts. I’ve walked in them all around town, and okay, I needed a single Band-Aid for a day. BUT! After that, they were totally broken in. Love how they elevate every single outfit! (I suggest going up a half size.) – Brittany Chatburn, Content Marketing Director
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
When I began curating my business casual capsule wardrobe for law school, I knew I needed a reliable pair of loafers that would go well with both slacks and jeans. After testing a few pairs, I decided on Madewell’s Corrinne Lugsole Loafer. This shoe strikes the perfect balance between chic, classy, and casual, and they’re comfortable enough to wear all day (with no blisters). – Casey McKee, Editorial Assistant
Mood Lifters
10% Happier with Dan Harris Podcast
Lately, my daily walks have a new companion: the 10% Happier podcast by Dan Harris. Each episode includes expert-backed science with daily practices for self-improvement, so I walk away feeling inspired and equipped with practical tools to actually make changes in my daily routine. It’s self-care that sticks because I know exactly why it works. – Tatom Hoffman, Marketing Intern
The Bouqs The Garden Party Box
I hosted a dinner party a few weeks ago and got a party box from The Bouqs Co. The flowers were stunning! A party box comes with 100 stems you can arrange yourself, and I ended up with six small bouquets. It was such a treat—next time, I’d love to make one giant centerpiece! – Kristin Garaffo, Design Editor
Activations App
Discipline, ritual, and supportive practices have been a huge focus for me this season, and nothing has been as game-changing as the Activations app. These positive, mindset-shifting recordings have completely transformed the way I move through my days—I feel more abundant, more grounded, and like my energy has shifted in the best way. I cue them up while I get ready in the morning, keep them on in the background as I clean, and even let them play while I sleep. It’s the kind of small daily ritual that creates a big, lasting impact. (Pick up founder Mimi Bouchard’s book, Activate Your Future Self, while you’re at it—it’s the perfect read if you’re craving change.) – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist
In Our Kitchens
Maison Methodologie Three-Cookie Tin
These cookies from Maison Methodologie are my secret to hitting my protein goals. As someone who started lifting last year but who also has a relentless sweet tooth, I was tired of protein dessert recipes that didn’t deliver on the promise of actually tasting good. These are cookies made the French way and so freaking good. I always keep a stash of these cookies in my freezer and purse when traveling, for the most delicious and satisfying treat. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Not Just Good, Beyond Good Pure Ground Madagascar Vanilla Power
This vanilla is the secret to upgrading everything in your kitchen. From my morning coffee, afternoon smoothie, all the cookies, mixed into yogurt, and so on, this vanilla powder if my absolute favorite for that distinctly warm vanilla flavor with a beautiful floral note. Beyond Good’s chocolate is also my go-to for when that chocolate craving strikes. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Elmhurt Unsweetened Walnut Milk
This milk changed my life. A little dramatic? Probably. But Elmhurst’s walnut milk is my favorite alt milk ever. Its flavor is perfectly rich, elevating my morning matcha and coffee, adding a silky-smooth texture to my smoothie and chia puddings, and is the best flavor for a bowl of cereal. I always have a few cartons on hand! – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Slate Milk (French Vanilla)
My iced matcha has officially entered her main character era thanks to Slate Milk (French Vanilla flavor). Paired with my other current fave—Crafti Matcha—and plenty of ice, it’s creamy, protein-packed, and honestly tastes like melted vanilla ice cream. The extra boost of protein keeps my focus steady all morning! – Edie Horstman, Wellness Editor
