My Favorite Things: 20 Cozy Finds for Fall and A Fall Bucket List

Happy first day of fall!   As we look forward to October in a couple of days I am reflecting that every October feels like a reset button for me.

The air cools down, the days get shorter, and suddenly I want everything around me to feel cozy, warm, and a little indulgent. This month I plan on leaning into seasonal comforts—candles that smell like baked goods, sweaters in bright cheerful colors, mugs that feel heavy in my hand, and home décor that brings fall right into my living room.

So, I thought I’d share some of my favorite things for October —  a mix of cozy fashion, home essentials, fall drinks, and décor finds that are making October feel extra special.

1. Pumpkin Candle by The Nest

Nothing screams October like the flicker of a candle. The Nest Pumpkin Chai candle blends the sweetness of pumpkin with the spice of chai. It’s rich but not overpowering, and the throw is strong enough to fill my whole living room in under 15 minutes.

I’ve been lighting it every evening while reading, and it gives the space that warm bakery feel—without me actually baking.

2. Pisola Brightly Colored Sweaters

Fall fashion can get a little predictable: neutrals, chunky knits, muted tones. That’s why I love Pisola’s brightly colored sweaters. This month I’ve been obsessed with a sunshine-yellow crewneck that feels like wrapping myself in soft cotton candy. It’s a dopamine hit on a cloudy day and pairs perfectly with denim or a flowy skirt.

Pro tip: size up for that oversized, effortless look.

3. Pottery Barn Faux Fur Throw

I don’t care how many throws you already own—fall demands a new one. This Pottery Barn faux fur throw is my current weakness. It’s soft enough to feel luxurious but durable enough that my kids can pile on it during movie night.

I keep it draped across the back of my couch, and it instantly makes the room feel more put-together.

4. Salted Maple Latte (Homemade)

Move over pumpkin spice. This year, my go-to has been a salted maple latte. I make mine at home with espresso, steamed oat milk, a spoonful of real maple syrup, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

The salt cuts the sweetness just enough, and it feels like a grown-up version of the PSL.

5. Hearth & Hand Stoneware Mugs

I can’t drink my fall coffee out of just any mug. This month, I picked up a set of stoneware mugs from Hearth & Hand at Target, and they’ve become my favorites. They’re wide, heavy, and have that handmade look that makes every sip feel intentional.

They’re also microwave and dishwasher safe—which means I don’t have to baby them.

6. Cinnamon Broom from Trader Joe’s

If you’ve ever walked into a Trader Joe’s in October, you’ve probably been hit with the spicy, warm scent of cinnamon brooms. I finally bought one this month, and now my entryway smells like a cinnamon bakery.

It’s an instant mood lifter and costs less than a fancy candle.

7. Plaid Wool Scarf

This October, I’ve been reaching for a classic plaid wool scarf. It’s lightweight but warm, and the pattern makes even my most basic outfits look polished. Mine has deep red and navy tones—perfect for fall walks or even just layering over a sweater when it’s not quite coat weather.

8. Glass Pumpkin Jars

Fall décor can get tacky fast, but I’ve been loving clear glass pumpkin jars. I picked up a couple and filled them with candy corn (for the kids) and cinnamon potpourri (for me). They sit on the console table, and every time someone walks by, they grab a handful—or stop to sniff.

9. Apple Cider Donut Mix from Williams Sonoma

Homemade donuts in under 30 minutes? Yes, please. Williams Sonoma sells an apple cider donut mix that tastes bakery-fresh. I’ve been making a batch on Sunday mornings, dusting them with cinnamon sugar, and serving them warm with coffee.

They never last more than an hour in my house.

10. Shoulder Bag in Burnt Orange

October outfits call for accessories that pop. My current favorite is a burnt orange leather crossbody bag—it’s functional, fits all my essentials, and matches the season without screaming “Halloween.”  FYI The color is technically called Dried Acorn (but looks burnt orange to me).

It goes with sweaters, dresses, or even athleisure when I’m running errands.

11. Starbucks Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato

Yes, it’s seasonal. Yes, it’s overpriced. But this drink has been my guilty pleasure. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato tastes like liquid apple pie, and I don’t care that it’s basically dessert in a cup. It’s worth every sip.

12. Brass Taper Candle Holders

Candles are an October must, but the vessel matters. I found a set of brass taper candle holders on Etsy that elevate my dining table instantly. I pair them with deep burgundy candles for that moody autumn vibe.

13. Hey There, Pumpkin doormat

Every year I want to start collecting my porch pumpkins way too early because they never seem to last until Halloweeen in the Texas heat.  Talk about an easy, fun well to upgrade your porch for fall…this doormat is so cute and a steal for $17 from Walmart.  I love that it also comes in a range of sizes.

14. Pumpkin Pancake & Waffle Mix (Trader Joe’s)

October weekends = pumpkin pancakes. Trader Joe’s mix is foolproof and fluffy. Add a little extra cinnamon, top with butter and maple syrup, and you’ll wonder why you don’t eat them year-round.

15. Reed Diffuser in “Autumn Leaves”

Sometimes you don’t want to babysit a candle. That’s where reed diffusers come in. I’ve been using one in my bathroom in the scent Autumn Leaves, and it keeps the space smelling fresh and seasonal without any effort.

16. Vintage-Inspired Wall Art

Fall décor isn’t just pumpkins. This month, I found some vintage-inspired prints with muted autumn landscapes. Think rolling hills, warm skies, and golden trees. I swapped out my summer art, and suddenly my living room feels like October even without the pumpkins.

17. Ceramic Vase with Dried Eucalyptus

I’ve been obsessed with dried florals lately. A simple ceramic vase filled with dried eucalyptus branches feels chic and seasonal without needing constant upkeep. The muted greens and browns work beautifully with other fall colors.

18. Velvet Throw Pillows

Swapping pillows is the easiest way to refresh a space. This October, I’m adding velvet throw pillows —especially love the moss and marigold colors. They catch the light beautifully and make the sofa feel new again.

19. Fall Walks at Golden Hour

Not everything on my list is something you can buy. My absolute favorite thing this October will be taking evening walks at golden hour. The sky turns peachy, the leaves crunch underfoot, and the air smells like woodsmoke. It’s grounding and simple—but honestly the highlight of the season.

October feels like an invitation to slow down and lean into comfort. Whether it’s a bright sweater that makes cloudy days better, a candle that smells like a bakery, or a simple evening walk, these favorites have defined my month.

If you’re craving that cozy, layered, seasonal feeling, I recommend trying a few of these for yourself. Light the candle. Make the salted maple latte. Buy the throw pillows. Fall only comes once a year—might as well enjoy it.