Ready for another fabulous crop of monthly editor favorites? If you’re anything like us and love everything from “what’s in my bag” videos to GRWM storytimes on TikTok, you’ll be thrilled for what’s in store. We spent August trying out old favorites and new finds and are here to bring you the best of the best. A few of our editors, like Karina and Esther, are vamping their homes with aesthetically pleasing and sustainable bamboo bath mats and linen-fitted bed sheets. The hype for Barbiecore is also still reigning strong, as our affiliate director Sarah and writer Victoria are here to share their buzzy new buys. Not to mention, you’ll definitely want to find out what luxe eyeshadow palette one writer has upgraded from her trusty Naked Palette.
Whether you’re looking for something for that last blast of summer heat or cozy transitional products from sweaters to moisturizers, our editors bought, tried, and reviewed plenty last month. Dive right into all the shopping glory they went on last month and get ready for whatever adventures fall has in store ahead.
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.
Free People Taking Sides Dress
“While it may look like it’s just a summer dress, the New York fall begs to differ. I am still sweating buckets, and this is the perfect light and airy dress to float into sweater weather. The back ties can tie a few ways for your comfort level and you can go bra-less or opt for boob tape for a more secure adventure (and cleavage). I’m normally a size L and the dress fits perfect with the adjustable straps. If you want to feel like you’re in a movie with every step you take, get this dress. Plus, it has pockets.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
free-est Taking Sides Maxi, $, available at Free People
Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad Eyeshadow Palette In Nude Dip
“My makeup collection leans more toward bright and whimsical colors, so much so that I haven’t restocked my nude eyeshadows since the original Naked Palette came out (which was so long ago, they don’t even make it anymore, yikes!). I wanted to invest in a high-quality but limited-range palette that I could rely on for a neutral look on the rare occasion I want it. This Tom Ford eyeshadow quad is a go-to wedding palette for bridal makeup, and its subtle shimmer makes you look like the absolute best version of yourself. Not only are the shadows buttery soft and blend seamlessly into each other, but on my night out wearing it people stopped me to ask what makeup I was wearing. $90 may seem like a steep price, but I already know I’m going to pay it again once this one hits pan. It’s worth it in compliments alone.” — Charlotte Lewis,
Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad Eyeshadow Palette, $, available at Sephora
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew
“The mental transition from summer to fall can be hard, but can we talk about the knitwear crisis we face when the weather starts to really turn?! It’s usually too cool for just a T-shirt, but not warm enough for full-on wool knits. This Quince cotton crew neck is the answer to my wardrobe woes. It’s under $40(!), the perfect boxy cut, and will keep me warm without overheating. I have it in the heather brown colorway, but have my eye on the speckled beige next.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew, $, available at Quince
Saie GlossyBounce High-Shine Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil
“I’m new to the Saie game and don’t think I will ever stop. I now fully comprehend why the beauty brand has become a cult favorite. My GlossyBounce has become my go-to lip product because of its easy application and immediate effect. I have it in the Bounce hue, and the gorgeous natural mauve color offers a flattering shine, close-to-lip color tint, and nourishing coverage The best part is that it isn’t overly sticky, even though it’s a lip gloss oil. All you get is the high shine and a beautiful tinted pout.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Saie Glossybounce™ High-Shine Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil, $, available at Sephora
Moroccanoil Frizz Shield Spray
“I got my hair permed about a year ago, and while the curls have mostly loosened out by now, my hair stays quite unruly when it’s warm and damp. Moroccanoil’s new Frizz Shield Spray product has been the perfect antidote to this problem. The lightweight spray contains a humidity-repelling agent that reduces frizz, plus argan oil — a super ingredient the brand has helped put on the map in the first place. I like spraying it all over my damp hair before blow-drying, as it helps reduce heat damage and enhances the overall glossiness.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Moroccanoil Frizz Shield Spray, $, available at Moroccanoil
Farberware 15-Piece Triple Riveted Acacia Knife Block Set, Blush And Gold
“I’m unabashedly leaning into my Barbie era, and while you’re more likely to catch me wearing a parachute around town than a hot pink dress, I am making concessions to my inner plastic doll around my home. That includes my new Farberware knife block (the first one I’ve ever owned!), which combines serious cuteness with the functionality you’d hope for from something that gets permanent placement on a kitchen counter. The knives and scissors are sharp, the whole piece is small enough for even the most petite kitchens, and it basically turns any space into a Dreamhouse immediately.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
farberware 15-Piece Triple Riveted Acacia Knife Block Set, $, available at Amazon
Year & Day Pitcher
“This ceramic pitcher seamlessly fits into my space, whether I use it to serve drinks or hold fresh flowers. The light blue color is sweet, but there are also six other neutrals to brighten up your table.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Year & Day Pitcher, $, available at Year & Day
Skims Boyfriend T-Shirt
“If you’re a big T-shirt and boyshort pajama girl like me, you’ll never want to wear another sleep shirt again. I’ve had this tee from SKIMS for a few years, and it looks just as good as the day I bought it; it’s super soft (almost marshmallow-like) and perfectly oversized. I keep meaning to order more replacements/colors because it ends up in my laundry rotation every week without fail.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Skims Boyfriend T-Shirt, $, available at Skims
Gorgie Energy Drink Variety Pack of 12
“I used to never be an energy drink person –I barely even drink coffee — but Gorgie was love at first sip. Whereas a lot of other similar bevvies on the market would leave me bouncing off the walls and jittery, Gorgie is like a delicious elixir to fuel my best self. Not only are the flavors so refreshing and not overly sweet, but I never feel shaky or too energized after drinking one. I love to have them before a morning workout or as I’m running errands during the day. It also helps that I have a total career crush on Gorgie’s founder, Michelle Cordeiro Grant, who was the mastermind behind Lively (aka one of my favorite bra brands — and probably yours too).” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Gorgie Gorgie Energy Drink Variety Pack of 12, $, available at Amazon
OffCourt Performance Body Spray Trio Pack
“I sweat a lot, like by the time I’ve run just a mile, I could fill a bucket with sweat. While this was no problem before puberty, sweat and BO is now a thing that has made itself present in my life at every step I take. I tested out this body spray, hoping to find a solution for mid-day sweats that doesn’t mean showering a million times daily. I really like the Fig Leaves + White Musk as it’s powdery and strong but not overpowering to mask my stank. The Coconut Water and sandalwood are a little too manly/musky smelling for me, but perhaps my boyfriend would like it. The spray goes on nice and easy and dry and lasts for the day, not multiple days, but that is what pre-bedtime showers are for.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
OffCourt Performance Body Spray Trio Pack, $, available at OffCourt
Rinna Beauty Lip Plumping Oil In Bombshell
“I’ve recently moved on from matte lip colors in favor of glosses and oils, and this one from Rinna Beauty is a game-changer. While it hasn’t given me its eponymous founder’s perfectly-rounded pout, its non-sticky but nicely shiny formula and hint of color have made it a new daily go-to.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil in Bombshell, $, available at Rinna Beauty
Vivaia Square-Toe Block Heel Slide
“I gravitate towards mule heels, and these Barbie pink ones are a new favorite in my collection. The heel is the perfect height for a little boost, and the mesh upper is really unique and comfortable. I’ve worn these with a few dresses and jeans, and they’ve been great statement shoe for each outfit.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Vivaia Square-Toe Block Heel Slide, $, available at Vivaia
14 Day Manicure Signature Gel Polish Starter Kit
“I’ve had to say goodbye to my monthly gel manicure appointments (now an extortionate habit that can cost you between £30 and £50 — or around $38 to $62 — in London right now). Instead, this DIY gel kit has saved my nails and bank account. It comes with everything you need to refresh your polish from the comfort of your home: an LED digital lamp, four gel polishes of your choice, a base and top coat, buffer, nail file, steel cuticle pusher, and acetone remover.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
14 Day Manicure Signature Gel Polish Starter Kit, $, available at 14 Day Manicure
Element Jewelry Sunshine Polishing Cloth
“Since getting engaged last year, I’ve been doing my best to keep my shiny new piece of jewelry looking shiny. After scouring the internet on how to polish platinum at home, multiple Reddit sources pointed me toward this unassuming polishing cloth on Amazon. For $7, I was willing to try it even if it did nothing. As soon as it arrived on my doorstep, I ate my words; even though it felt like buttery suede, it restored my mildly tarnished band to gleaming, brilliant perfection. (You can see the worn-off patina on the cloth, which I personally find SO satisfying.) I’m not sure how long the cloth itself will last after I’ve wiped the entire surface, but for the price point (and stellar results), I’m totally impressed, and can’t wait to restore all of my jewelry to like-new condition.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Element Jewelry Sunshine Polishing Cloth, $, available at Amazon
Rabbit Frozen Cocktail Tumbler
“Frosé all day? Hard pass. But the ability to turn any drink into a slushy with barely any effort? A resounding hell yeah. These freezable tumblers are not only a cute addition to any kitchen but the best way to answer the age-old question: ‘What if sangria was a smoothie?'” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Rabbit Frozen Cocktail Tumbler (Set of 2), $, available at Amazon
The Worthy Dog Bias Plaid Dog Leash
“My little white dog is not a clothing wearer (as much as I wish she were), but I love swapping her leash and collar seasonally to keep her looking fresh and fashion-forward (yes, I am that kind of dog mom). This fall, she’s strutting the streets of NYC looking like she belongs in a UES doorman building (rather than my Brooklyn walk-up) with this thick set in faux-Burberry plaid. It’s so chic and worth the $40 I paid for both.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
The Worthy Dog Bias Plaid Dog Leash, $, available at Target
Fossil Logan Mini Multifunction Wallet
“I travel quite often and carry a plethora of foreign currency, receipts, and SIM cards with me, so I was really glad to have found this Fossil wallet. It’s the Mary Poppins carry-all for my dreams: plenty of slots for cards and photos (which is rare in the sea of micro-wallets these days), including a massive duo compartment for spare change. I love how expensive the supple brown leather and gold brand lettering look, and the boxy shape is compact enough to fit into most of my crossbody bags, compared to rectangular continental wallets. The functional zip pockets have already come in handy a few times as a great hiding place for any prized jewelry or extra, just-in-case headache meds and antacids.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Fossil Logan Mini Multifunction Wallet, $, available at Fossil
Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturizer
“The transitional weather has brought me to the doorstep of Summer Fridays. It’s not blistering hot anymore for a water-based moisturizer, but it’s also not cold enough for a thick cream. The Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturizer is the ideal ultra-lightweight cooling gel-cream that works for these in-between seasons. Your dehydrated skin is pampered with three types of hyaluronic acid and ceramides for a visibly plump look. A little goes a long way, and I love keeping it in the refrigerator for an additional cooling effect. I always look forward to my mornings when I’ll be using it.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora
Drowsy Silk Akoya Pearl Pillowcase
“I have been bleaching my hair for… a long time. And it’s suffered at my hands with hair ties and clips aplenty. So, at the recommendation of my stylist, I invested in some super stylish scrunchies (I love that they’re back in style!) and a silk pillowcase. I didn’t expect how much I’d love this case from Drowsy. I cannot believe how soft it is against not only my hair but also my face. My hair makes it to the morning uncreased and unfrizzed, and I wake up 100% less sweaty than before (and I sleep so hot my gf calls me a furnace). I refuse to sleep without it.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
Drowsy Akoya Pearl Queen-Sized Silk Pillowcase, $, available at Drowsy Sleep Co
Simple & Opulence Fitted Sheet
“I’ve used linen duvet and pillow covers before, but a linen fitted sheet? It’s an absolute game changer, especially if you tend to run hot in bed like I do. Combine with a set of linen PJs for the ultimate late summer heatwave sleep!” —
Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Simple & Opulence Premium 100% Linen Fitted Sheet, $, available at Amazon
Viewcare Store Waterproof Bamboo Bath Mat For Shower
“After years of dealing with plush bath mats that never felt (or smelled, let’s be real here) truly clean, no matter how many times I threw them in the wash, I finally caved and purchased this bamboo mat based on my twin sister’s recommendation. (She has impeccable taste in literally everything, so I trust her judgment.) Not only does it instantly elevate my humble apartment bathroom’s aesthetic, but it’s also ended the vicious cycle of throwing out and repurchasing bath mats. Even after I step on it with damp feet, it dries pretty quickly and is easy to wipe down. Plus, bamboo is a sustainable and biodegradable source, so if the day eventually comes to retire it, I can feel better about making a more conscious decision for the environment.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Viewcare Store Waterproof Bamboo Bath Mat For Shower, $, available at Amazon
MISSHA Time Revolution The First Essence Serum
“Trust me, and start off your skincare routine with MISSHA’s Time Revolution The First Essence Serum. The toner/serum hybrid instantly boosts radiance and hydration to your skin. It also brightens, firms, maintains the skin’s pH balance and strengthens your skin. How do I know this? I’ve been using it religiously for years in college and have recently been reintroduced to it. It’s fragrance-free and has a watery consistency that keeps your skin refreshed and the oils at bay and is not leaving my medicine cabinet any time soon.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Missha Time Revolution The First Essence Serum, $, available at Amazon
Naked Sundays SPF50 Glow + Go Lip Oil In Cheery Pie
“I religiously wore this SPF lip oil daily while vacationing in steamy Sicily this summer after realizing just how hydrating and long-lasting the formula is. Knowing my lips were protected from the sun also gave me peace of mind. I also love the slight tint and the fresh cherry scent.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
naked Sundays SPF50 Glow + Go Lip Oil in Cherry Pie, $, available at naked Sundays
Ole Henriksen Pore-Balance Facial Sauna Scrub
“Trust me when I say this will be the most unique facial scrub you’ve ever tried. With ingredients like volcanic sand and AHAs, it does feel a bit like getting into a sauna and ice bath: the particles, which are heftier than your average scrub, release gentle heat to open the pores right up, followed by a minty, cooling sensation that sweeps away any feelings of greasiness. It unclogs my pores instantly without stripping the moisture barrier of my skin. It’s definitely the kind of skincare product I will be re-purchasing again.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Ole Henriksen Pore-Balance Facial Sauna Scrub, $, available at Ole Henriksen
Kinfield Sunday Spray
“It may be late in the season for going to the beach, but the sun is still a strong and mighty lady one shouldn’t mess with. After a recent trip to the beach on a somewhat cloudy day, despite my best efforts sun protection effort (slathering sunscreen everywhere on at regular basis and a big floppy sunhat), I still managed to get burned. The Kinfield Sunday Spray and Aquaphor Healing Ointment saved my skin. I would have been an itchy, peely, and in-pain mess without these products. I alternated between sprays of the Sunday Spray to provide immediate relief during the day, then slathered on with some Aquaphor first thing in the morning and at night. Save yourself the pain and stock up before you need them.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Kinfield Sunday Spray, $, available at Kinfield
Flaire & Co. Water Safe Adjustable Pearl Ring
“This previously sold-out ring was my go-to throughout the summer when I was in and out of the water and when my fingers swelled from salty treats. Because of the adjustable design, I can even wear them on each of my fingers without stretching them out.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Flaire & Co. Water Safe Adjustable Pearl Ring, $, available at Flaire & Co.
OmSom Garlic Pepper Saucy Noodles
“We are big fans of OmSom around here and have written a lot about its seasoning sets, but don’t sleep on the brand’s noodle packets, either. This ain’t your average instant cup ramen: the noodles are air-dried, not fried, and have an incredible texture. Coupled with the creamy, garlicky pepper-y sauce, you’ve got an easy dinner that’s just chef’s kiss. I paired my noodles with a fried egg and roasted salmon, and it’s the best home-cooked meal I’ve had in recent memory.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Omsom Garlic Black Pepper Saucy Noodles, $, available at Omsom
MCS 6-Pack Format Picture Frames
“Creating a gallery wall is hard enough without spending a gagillion dollars on frames. As someone who’s collected a lot of wall art in my time, nothing looks cleaner for a lower price than this 6-pack of Amazon frames. It comes in black, white, and gold finishes, depending on your taste, too.” — Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
MCS 6-Pack Format Picture Frames, $, available at Amazon
Joey Healy Precision Brow Scissor
“I know what you’re thinking: Brow scissors! Karina, have you lost your mind? I would’ve believed you, too — but that was before my resident brow expert, Joey Healy (if you haven’t paid a visit to his NYC studio, I truly cannot recommend him enough), empowered me with these game-changing tools. Unlike 99% of other brow scissors on the market, these combine razor-sharp scissors’ precision with tweezers’ ergonomic feel. Even if you’re not used to grooming your own brows, trust me: These feel so comfortable and effortless in your hand, and you’re in control the entire time. As someone who has naturally big, bushy brows, a little maintenance goes a long way; with these scissors, I’m not really changing the shape of my arches (I’ll leave that part to Joey), but just trimming the hairs once they get long enough to be brushed up past the natural arch. (And if you accidentally snip too much and create a small gap, not to worry — just fill it in with a bit of pencil and patiently wait for it to grow in.)” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Joey Healy Precision Brow Scissor, $, available at Joey Healy
Our Remedy Oh My Flo Natural Adaptogenic Wellness Tea
“This has swiftly become my go-to every time of the month. It eases cramps, discomfort, and period bloating or period-related digestion issues, tastes yummy, and puts me in a chilled-out, calm state of mind so it’s easier to sleep (I struggle to relax when on my period as my anxiety tends to be at its highest).” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content Producer
Our Remedy Oh My Flo Natural Adaptogenic Wellness Tea 12, $, available at Sephora
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