The October Edit With Caroline

The start of a new season brings many shifts. From the way we feel, the changes in nature both subtle and grand and the seasonal foods we gravitate towards; to how we find comfort in our homes and how we dress. Truth be told, this is my favorite time of year and so it's no surprise that the DIANI stores are filling up with all that I find inspiring to embrace the season. Right now, I'm craving all things warm, cozy and in the earth tones, so for this month's edition of "The Edit", I've curated a collection of my fall essentials that I'm excited to share with you all – from what I'm reaching for in my wardrobe and how I've updated my home; to the coffee table books that top my list and the wellness essentials for the new season.

With the fall season comes some of the best in fashion – boots, sweaters, handbags and scarves and it makes it especially hard to pick favorites. Not to mention all the amazing fabrics and prints. When I'm buying for fall, I look for both neutrals and statement pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Lately, I've had my eye on earth tones, like the Raquel Allegra pant that's an easy and comfortable fit. I love a mixed print look, so I'm pairing with a floral Vanessa Bruno blouse. And yes, I wear white after Labor Day so I've got this white jean on rotation worn with the same blouse, or a classic feminine tonal top with the juxtaposition of a Chelsea combat boot for an easy weekend look. An oversized Grandpa cardigan is an essential this season and I'm loving the roll neck style in an easy grey tone. And to me, fall accessories really take a basic outfit next level – I'm suggesting a leopard crossbody or a printed scarf worn around the neck under a blouse or with a sweater. 

Coffee table books are meant to transport you and inspire. There's no pressure to read them cover to cover and oftentimes, the photographs tell the story. I have many stacks in our living room on our coffee table and a bench in our reading nook. I like to keep a few different genres available to flip through depending on my mood. Some of my favorites are Down To Earth and Travel Home for design inspo, Vogue & The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute for a look inside fashion's biggest night out, and Bill Cunningham: On The Street for the very best street style. Then there are my iconic standbys, Barbra Streisand and Linda McCartney, which feature beautiful photography from cover to cover. For some light-hearted reading, Joy! and How To Do Things always make me smile. And for some serious travel inspiration, She Explores has the best short stories.

Now that the days are getting shorter and we're starting to spend less time outdoors, taking time for self care and boosting immunity is more important than ever. I'm starting to swap salads for soups, take restorative baths and make a conscious effort to keep moving. As we continue to cook from home more, I've been reading through cookbooks like What To Eat For How You Feel for Ayurvedic-inspired meals and The Ultimate Guide to Eating for Longevity for nutritional insight. As many of you know, I've become hooked on a new workout, and I've added this new floral bra and legging set to the rotation. It can be challenging to find time to take an evening bath, but I'm always glad when I do. I like to light incense to calm my work nerves and sink into the floral bath soak infused with CBD for extra relaxation and hydration. To seal in that post-bath moisture, a body oil is my go-to. Whether I'm going out, working late or curling up by the fire, a cashmere something is a must and I'm loving the versatility of this sweater cape.

If you read my last post, you know I've begun introducing fall layers throughout my home. I'm obsessed with these gorgeous felted sheep wool rugs to add to reading nooks, bedsides and draped over furniture. Hand made in the Peak District in England, they take over a year to make, between the sheep growing their wool, shearing, cleaning and felting them... using no skin, just wool and lots of love. I've also been adding cozy throws, plush pillows and vintage candlesticks. In the spirit of the season, our best selling pumpkin candle is back as well as our skull shot glasses for a little night cap. And a cozy night in wouldn't be complete without our faux fur sandals. They're stylish enough to take them for an outdoors spin too.

Thank you as always for following along. I love creating and sharing my favorites with you all. I hope this edition of The Edit helps you feel inspired to embrace this fall season in every aspect of your life. Feel free to email me with any questions at caroline@dianiliving.com.

Sending lots of love,