The weather is finally cooling and we’re feeling the fall vibes in the air. And nothing is stopping us from unpacking our spooky season decor and sipping pumpkin spice lattes either. In fact, we encourage it — and even have a few essentials in mind to bring that autumnal ambiance to the next level.
For the latest installment of Shop TODAY’s Hot List, we’re kicking off the fall equinox with executive editor Adrianna Brach and lifestyle expert Bahar Takhtehchian to give us the scoop on what’s hot for the new season. Below, we’re highlighting hydrating skin care, a gadget for at-home lattes, NFL-wear that’s actually stylish and so many more fall essentials.
Saying goodbye to summer is hard, but with our favorite fall-forward items below, you can bet it won't be missed too much.
Hot List fall essentials seen on TODAY
Sweater weather is finally upon us and this option is both elevated and comfortable. The wrap design is not only flattering but also is extremely versatile. “You can pair this staple with everything from jeans and wide-leg pants to skirts or layer on top of a dress,” suggests Takhtehchian.
The biggest trend in manicures right now is “glass nails,” which Takhtehchian explains is nails with a “super sheer and shiny” finish that’s “meant to look like glass.” To get the look, Essie offers a collection of six translucent shades, offering a glossy and clean finish. The color is buildable, so if you’re looking for a more opaque finish, our expert suggests applying two coats.
Matcha isn’t just for a tasty beverage; it actually has tons of benefits for the skin. According to the brand, this multi-stick from Cocokind is formulated with matcha tea powder and coconut oil to help hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Its versatile use allows you to use it on dry spots or to moisturize your lips, too
Takhtehchian even suggests using this as a quick fix for rogue eyebrow hairs or flyaways.
Fall is the time to indulge in warm seasonal flavored beverages. Skip the $8 pumpkin spice latte; this Shop TODAY-loved milk frother helps you make cafe-style beverages right from your kitchen. “With the push of a button, you can heat, froth or mix any liquid,” says Takhtehchian. “The self stirrer in the bottom of the cup makes it easy to mix up your favorite powdered drinks like hot cocoa or matcha, or just add in cold milk and stir for at-home easy cold foam.”
To reach the ultimate level of fall coziness, you’ll want to add this candle lamp warmer to your living room. The heat from the lamp slowly melts the wax from your favorite candle, unleashing a subtle fragrance — without the use of flames. It’s safe to use, features adjustable lighting with a timer, and its gorgeous design complements most home decor.
If you’re looking to stock up on seasonal candles, Bath and Body Works is known for its epic collection of fragrances. The brand just released “The Reserve Collection,” which is an elevated line filled with scents that include santal and amber, and sea salt and musk. The candles come in an elegant ceramic jar that will pair perfectly with the candle warmer.
Hot List fall essentials seen on the 3rd hour of TODAY
NFL by Abercrombie
Abercrombie & Fitch’s NFL collection is filled with game day apparel for fans of all ages. The collection includes cardigans, T-shirts, sweatshirts and more, featuring the 32 teams. “The best part is that it’s fan gear you can wear as everyday clothing! It’s not so “on the nose” game day gear– and it’s also really comfy,” says Brach. “I wear my cardigan out running errands in the morning and my kids love their matching sweaters for the chilly morning.”
You can shop the entire NFL by Abercrombie collection here, and select styles are 25% with a myAbercrombie account.
Brach calls this Jansport bag an “everything bag” because you can use it for the gym, traveling or work. From your laptop to a dedicated spot for your shoes, it includes tons of compartments for your essentials and even a trolley sleeve for your luggage.
“What I love about this health tracker is that you’re getting all the health data without another screen on your wrist trying to get your attention,” says Brach. This screen-free fitness gadget tracks your heart rate and sleep health without any notifications popping up to distract you. Plus, the brand says it’s designed to be comfortable enough to wear all hours of the day and night.
Kiehl’s recently expanded their Ultra line with a new lip treatment. According to the brand, it’s formulated with glycerin, dimethicone and peptides that provide a protective seal and lock in moisture for chapped and cracked lips.
This memory foam cloud pillow has become a TikTok sensation; in fact, it’s the No. 1 bestseller on the platform. According to the brand, it’s designed with different zones meant to support different types of sleep styles. “It has two different heights in the same pillow too,” explains Brach. “The lower side is good if you like less elevation for back or stomach sleepers. The higher side is best for side sleepers who need that neck and shoulder support.”
Apple flavors
Fall treats are another reason this season is superior. The Shop TODAY team is loving the apple-flavored Olipops; its carbonation tastes like you’re drinking a crisp sparkling apple juice. You can buy the drinks in bulk, or Target sells it single by the can.
“These Pepperidge Farm cookies are like mini apple pies!” shares Brach. “They combine apple, cinnamon and that buttery cookie crust we all love to give you the best sweet treat for the cozy season.” But hurry, this is a limited edition flavor, so it won’t last long.
More fall essentials to shop
Protein coffee has been a trend hitting every coffee shop and grocery store. According to the brand, these canned lattes come in a variety of flavors and contain 20 grams of protein and 125 milligrams of caffeine, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Matches are so out. If you’re over the finger burns or forgetting to buy more matchbooks, this Shop TODAY bestselling electric lighter will save the day. Its size and safety features make it great for bringing anywhere, like barbecues, campgrounds and more. But we’d rather keep it right next to our fall candle jar for when it needs a light. It’s rechargeable and doesn’t require any kind of lighter fluid.
Nothing creates maximum fall ambiance quite like a scented candle — but not just any candle. A Yankee Candle can work magic on a space, ensuring it smells warm and inviting. But this collection of fragrances is offered with one goal: to jumpstart those cozy fall vibes. Seriously, all of these scents are giving “fall in a jar.” From pumpkin spice and sugared cinnamon apple to crisp forest air and mountain lounge, these are great to light when you need to wind down after a long day.
It’s never too late to level up your fitness routine, and this unexpected tool may be the key to hitting your goal. You’ve likely seen people wearing these weighted vests around, whether at the gym, while taking walks or even running errands — it’s because they offer a ton of benefits. According to Shop TODAY contributor Makho Ndlovu, experts says this fitness-fashion hybrid tool can improve core strength, increase calorie burn and build up total body strength. “I love this one, says Ndlovu, adding, “I wear it during workouts and even while cleaning around the house. It’s an easy way to amp up any activity!” She is also a big fan of how surprisingly comfortable it is, as well as functional, considering the detachable pocket it comes with.
The air is about to get a little chillier and a lot more dry, but this PDRN cream can ensure your skin keeps its hydration. Thanks to a formula packed with peptides and collagen, it can keep you complexion feeling plump, looking smooth and maintaining a youthful glow. “I love how dewy my skin looks after I apply this,” says senior editor Julie Ricevuto. “I use it as my final skin care step and my glow lasts all day long.”
Make sure you have all the cooking tools you need while making your favorite comfort meals this season. This spatula set can help you flip, lift, scrape and spread — without risk of scratching your best cookware.
Sweater weather has arrived, and we found your new go-to pullover to add to your lineup. This soft knot offers an oversized fit and is said to feel super “snuggly.” Right now, you can grab one for nearly 50% off.
When stepping outside starts to feel a little cooler, you'll be happy you have this utility jacket to turn to. It's available in a ton of colors and can even offer a custom fit, thanks to a drawstring added to the waist.
Meet the expert
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team along with Adrianna Brach, Bahar Takhtechian and Makho Ndlovu.
- Adrianna Brach is the executive editor at Shop TODAY, with over a decade of experience as an editor covering beauty, fashion and shopping.
- Bahar Takhtehchian is a lifestyle and beauty expert who formerly stopped by the show to highlight multitasking cleaning items, travel products and more.
- Makho Ndlovu is a Shop TODAY contributor and on-air expert.
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How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
