As we prepare to enter the last full week of August, there might be a lot more on your mind other than summer coming to an end. Back-to-school season is here, fall is creeping in and ... are you seeing Halloween displays already, too? Meaning, it's about that time we start falling back into a routine.
For the latest installment of Shop TODAY’s Hot List, we tapped our Shop TODAY contributor and lifestyle expert Melissa Garcia to help us revamp our standard routines with products that will not only improve your daily schedule but also become staples in your new day-to-day. We're talking a portable Crock-Pot, new beauty launches and editor-loved sneakers for the season, and so much more.
Ready to tackle the rest of 2026 in confidence and style? Check out our favorite picks below, plus an exclusive code.
Return to routine fall essentials seen on TODAY
K-Beauty is having a major moment, and this viral and Shop TODAY editor-loved brand just launched a new gel mask, which is infused with NAD+ and EGF ingredients. According to the brand, the mask helps support and repair the skin barrier, providing hydration and smoothing fine lines.
“I tried it and my skin felt super hydrated afterward and had that really pretty, dewy, radiant glow that lasted through my entire daily routine,” raves Garcia.
“I’ve recently tried a few mascaras that I love, and this new launch from Nars is now officially at the top of my list,” says Garcia. “It made my lashes longer, fuller and more defined without clumping!”
The unique wavy bristle brush allows you to build volume and lengthen each lash, it also has a tapered end to help cover every lash in the inner corners. Plus, Nars is offering 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER.
Bringing your lunch to work? Crock-Pot’s mini food warmer is a great alternative to your average lunch box. Garcia notes that this is perfect for office workers, teachers, healthcare professionals and even students.
According to the brand, it’s 20-ounces, making it ideal for individual portions, has a detachable cord and handle for easy-carrying. It’s also a tight-sealing lid to prevent any accidental spills in your bag.
Rothy's Women's The Ivy Sneaker
Rothy’s just launched the Ivy Sneaker that’s already loved by Shop TODAY editors. Not only is the retro-style a huge trend, but they’re also comfortable, suitable for all-day wear and come in a variety of colors. Garcia says they’re her new “go-to” show for the season and versatile enough for jeans, skirts and even dresses.
Plus, we have an exclusive discount for TODAY viewers; new customers can use code TODAY20 for $20 off on your entire cart for purchases over $100, now through Sept. 2.
Rothy's Men's Court Sneakers
“For men, the Court Sneaker is that classic clean sneaker that works with pretty much everything,” says Garcia. The brand offers timeless shades with pops of color for a fun, versatile look.
And new customers can also use the above code, TODAY20 for $20 off your cart, now through Sept. 2.
This flattering boatneck-style top is so easy to wear, layer and incorporate into every type of outfit, from work to the weekend, says Garcia. And with some shades starting at under $10, you’ll want to grab multiple for the season.
Return to routine fall essentials seen on the 3rd hour of TODAY
Automet Plaid Shacket
The plaid shacket (a hybrid of a shirt and jacket) is a must-have for the fall season. While it has the same look as a button-up, Garcia explains it’s thicker fabric makes it a perfect layering piece for fall weather. You can wear it over tanks and tees, and even sweaters as the weather turns colder.
“Big bags are officially back and this is an easy, affordable way to tap into the oversized bag trend while still getting something practical enough for every day,” says Garcia.
That’s why we’re loving this affordable bucket bag from Old Navy, which Garcia notes has the ultimate “quiet-luxury” and “cool girl” vibe. It’s large enough to hold a laptop, making it perfect for work and running errands. Score an extra 10% off the deal price with code EXTRA at checkout.
Is returning to an early morning routine making you look extra tired? This Shop TODAY-loved skin care brand just launched a new under-eye patch that’s formulated with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to target dark circles and puffiness.
Garcia says she loves keeping these in the fridge for instant firmness and a refreshing feel.
The new season is the perfect time to reset your skin care routine, and this new night cream from Olay is formulated with a retinoid complex and peptides to help smooth fine lines and boost the overall health of the skin, says the brand.
Planes are notorious for having poor-quality, wired earbuds and this travel gadget takes your in-flight entertainment to the next level. By inserting into a traditional headphone jack, the Airfly allows you to connect your personal headphones for better listening and comfort.
It’s palm-sized, which Garcia notes is perfect for traveling — and beyond the plane.
The leaves will soon be falling, and with this portable blower, you won’t have to lug out the hefty leaf blower. While the handheld gadget might look small, the brand says its power blasts leaves and other messes with minimal effort. Plus, you can use it in the car and even to inflate air mattresses and more.
And just for TODAY viewers, the brand is offering up to 33% off and free shipping when you purchase through the above link.
More fall routine essentials to shop
Breaking out your fall sweaters and cardigans? This fabric shaver gently removes fuzz and pilling from clothing. According to the brand, you can adjust the cover to effectively and safely work on different fabrics.
Thanks to these paper liners, cooking in your air fryer is easier than ever. The brand says liners are oil- and water-proof, preventing food from sticking to the appliance, allowing for quick clean-up.
“Once I notice my water bottle is starting to smell or that it has a mystery stain, it’s time to grab a Bottle Bright tablet,” says former production coordinator Bella Druckman. “The tablets activate when combined with hot water, so I’ll fill my bottle with one liter of water and drop the tablet in. The tablet immediately starts fizzing and working its magic in just 15 to 30 minutes.”
Meet the experts
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 Melissa Garcia.
- Melissa Garcia is a Shop TODAY lifestyle and fashion contributor. She has experience working on national brand campaigns, appearing on major television broadcasts, and hosting fashion events for commerce destinations. With a relatable approach and her own eye-catching personal style, Garcia has become a go-to fashion resource in American media.
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.
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Paid for by Sam's Club
Paid for by Sam's Club
