11 Tricks, Tips & Ideas We're Loving This October

bon voyage!

Packing just got easier thanks to the new modular luggage insert from Monos. Made to fit right into your suitcase, simply pack your clothes and accessories into the zippered mesh compartments and set off on your adventure. Once you make it to your destination, pull out the insert and hang it in the closet to have all your essentials visible at a glance, no unpacking needed. Now the hardest part of packing for your next trip will be choosing your outfits!

Monos, Packable Hanging Closet, $120

get your glow on

The original UV Aqua Rich SPF moisturizer from Bioré has been an instant favourite since its Canadian debut, thanks to its hydrating formula, invisible UV protection and fresh citrusy scent. Now, this superstar lotion has levelled up with the addition of a glowing finish just when we need it most, providing a hit of radiance as the days are getting shorter and darker. Part sunscreen, part moisturizer, part illuminator, all fabulous.

London Drugs, UV Aqua Rich Glowy SPF moisturizer, $18

no stain, no gain

Stepping outside to stain your wooden deck and fencing may seem like a summer job, but it turns out that early fall is the best time to take on the task. This is especially true for new, unprotected wood or stained pieces that are beginning to look worn out. “Canadian winters are tough on wood and destroy unprotected decks,” says Louis-Philippe Morand, senior marketing manager for Sico. When it comes to staining, “Waiting until next spring can lead to a lot of damage and more work,” he says. Sico’s newest one-coat wood stains combine stain and sealer in one easy step to give wooden surfaces a facelift while protecting them from water, UV rays and the unpredictable Canadian weather.

Sico, Formula 77 Wood Stain & Sealer, $58

FUR YOUR INFORMATION

Faux fur for fall? We think there's no chicer way to stay warm.

Coach, Leopard Faux Fur Coat, $730

Simons, Colourful Hair Ties, $12

who wants seconds?

Take your comforting pasta dishes to the next level with Felicia, a pasta brand made of all-star ingredients like spirulina, buckwheat, oats and lentils. We love this nutrient-packed alternative to traditional pasta that doesn’t compromise on taste and texture.

Felicia, Brown Rice & Spirulina Spaghetti, $7 

the power of pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About 1 in 8 Canadian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and excluding non-melanoma skin cancers, it’s the most common type among women. Early diagnosis is crucial, so it’s important to prioritize regular mammograms and encourage the women in your life to do the same. For more info, resources and ways to get involved, visit the Canadian Breast Cancer Network.

spray all day

An ingredient that’s flown under the radar, hypochlorous acid is a total BFF to sensitive skin prone to redness, thanks to it’s soothing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This molecule is the foundation of Blumiral, a Canadian brand we’ve been crushing on. Our favourite? The Elixir de Blumiral, a soothing mist you can keep on-hand to refresh the skin as needed without disturbing your makeup.

Blumiral, Elixir de Blumiral, $40

cleaning thyme

Turn floor care into a pleasant ritual with the relaxing scents of lavender and thyme in Bona’s newest floor cleaner. Biodegradable and pH-neutral, this formula not only banishes dirt and grime, but it also protects against discolouration for wooden floors that stay beautiful for longer, keeping less flooring from hitting the landfill. Cleaner floors and a cleaner planet? Count us in.

Bona, Hardwood Floor Cleaner, $25

boo-tiful decor

Get your home in the Halloween spirit with these adorably festive pieces. 

IKEA, HÖSTAGILLE Decorative Bowl, $27

Bath & Body Works, Witch's Halloween Candle Holder, $24

save/splurge: concealer sticks

Splurge:

Enjoy up to 12 hours of flawless wear with this concealer that firms the skin over time thanks to a ceramide-peptide complex.

ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick, $65

Save:

Tackle pigmentation, redness and dark circles with this stick that corrects and conceals for a flawless finish.

Marcelle CC Concealer + Corrector, $18

sleepy sticker

If you’ve ever lit a lavender-scented candle to unwind after a long day, you’ve experienced the benefits of aromatherapy. For all of the relaxation without the flame, try these innovative essential oil stickers from Natpat: When placed on your pjs, a blend of lavender, mandarin, vetiver and marjoram begins to calm the mind and nervous system to help you drift off to sleep quickly and naturally. Sweet dreams!

Natpat, Bedtime Stickers, $15 each