the september eighteen
18 curated favorites you might love
Hello, September. A month that dances on the edge of summer’s lingering warmth and the crisp promise of fall. It’s a time when the city sheds its faded August haze, we trade beach days for trench coats, and iced lattes for cinnamon-spiced pumpkin concoctions. As the first leaves start to turn, so do the pages of our lives, filled with new obsessions, unexpected delights, and cozying up to the nostalgic ambiance that we live for, much like the sound of a crunchy snap of a dry leaf under our shoes.
September has always felt special to me, a month that’s not just a transition of seasons but a reflection of the changes in my own life. It's no wonder I named my Substack "September 18"—a nod to my birthday on the 18th of this month. This month, I’m turning 24, and I have to admit, it’s a number that feels both exciting and daunting. Honestly, I’m not sure if I feel 24 yet—heck, I don’t even feel 23. Things are shifting, much like the seasons, and I’m finding myself in a whirlwind of change.
I’ve officially made the move to the Big Apple, diving headfirst into my internships and slowly starting to unravel the complexities of the subway system. I’m miles away from home, navigating this vast, bustling city on my own, and it’s been both thrilling and terrifying time. This month, more than ever, I feel like I’m standing at the cusp of something new, trying to piece together who I am and what I want to do with my life.
With a hectic month filled with my first New York Fashion Week, three internships, new people, and embracing the city in all its chaos and charm. It’s overwhelming, but also invigorating. As I explore this new chapter of my life and inch closer to my 24th year, I’m learning to embrace the uncertainty and enjoy the journey. So, here are my 18 favorites of September, a mix of things that are helping me navigate this busy month and a celebration of all the little joys that keep me grounded amidst the whirlwind. Enjoy!
1. Suede Blazer
It’s no shocker that suede is back. It’s a fall staple that never disappoints and remains a favorite during the cooler months. But this year, suede feels like its’ breathing new life into the season. Maybe it’s just my Pinterest feed amplifying this feeling, but suede is making a booming comeback like never before. From the recent Alexa Chung x Madewell drop featuring a stunning Double-Breasted Suede Blazer to the & Other Stories Suede Blazer, all I can think about is adding a suede piece to my barely-there city wardrobe. A chic suede blazer is at the top of my list—it just screams fall in the most perfect way, effortlessly combining warmth, texture, and timeless style.
2. Cowhide Bags
I must be in my Western girl fall era. Lately, scrolling through Pinterest and reflecting on home, I’ve felt my Southern roots beginning to resurface—perhaps it’s a touch of homesickness since moving away. While I didn’t grow up on a farm, memories of driving along the Gulf Coast to my grandma’s house and seeing cattle grazing the expansive landscapes during my trips have sparked this new fascination. Cowhide, to me, is stunning, with its mix of browns, blacks, creams, and whites swirling together in a soothing way. It’s a perfect complement to a fall ensemble, capturing both the essence of the season and a memory of home.
3. Chunky Bangles
There’s nothing I love more than chunky jewelry. I always have. I take pride in my endless collection of chunky gold earrings and necklaces, but when it comes to bracelets and bangles... my collection is surprisingly bare. They’re definitely statement pieces that make a real impact with just a flick of the wrist (see what I did there). Adding a few chunky bracelets or bangles instantly brings a boho vibe to any look, and I can already picture the carefree yet polished energy they’d add to my wardrobe.
4. Birthday Vogue
Last year, I was aimlessly scrolling through my For You page when I came across a girl talking about how she found the Vogue issue published the month she was born. I instantly fell in love with the idea of owning something that sentimental, so naturally, I started my own search. It took about a month, but I finally found a copy of the September 2000 Vogue for sale. When it arrived, it was in pristine condition, like it had just been placed on a magazine rack for the first time.
Owning something like this feels both special and fascinating. It offers a glimpse into the past—what was in and out at the time, especially in my case, where the Fall must-haves from 2000 still reflect trends we wear 24 years later. Although I made this purchase last year, I’m eager to continue searching for other issues, particularly more Vogues from my birth month, and I highly recommend you do the same.
5. Oxblood Red
2024 has been undeniably red hot, with vibrant cherry reds dominating the fashion scene from head to toe. As the year kicked off, bright, fiery hues reflected the bold, fresh energy of the moment. Personally, I couldn’t resist investing in cherry-red pieces that added a pop of excitement to my wardrobe. But as we transition into fall, the whirlwind of NYFW and the subtle shift in trends signal that the reign of bright red may be evolving.
We're moving toward a deeper, richer palette—one where oxblood red, with its dark purple and brown undertones, begins to take center stage. This hue, named after the color of an ox's blood, carries a history as rich as its tone. Traditionally, ox blood was used as a pigment to dye fabric and leather, transforming from bright red to a darker, oxidized shade over time. It symbolizes a maturing of the bold red we’ve seen earlier this year, as if the hue itself is following the natural rhythm of the seasons.
Just as summer’s brightness gives way to fall’s moody depth, the transition from cherry red to oxblood mirrors the cooling of the year. It’s a shift that feels both organic and exciting—a step toward something more sophisticated, grounding, and autumnal.
6. Denim on Denim
Effortless cool. It’s the first thing I think of when I think of denim. It’s a look that feels rooted in Americana—timeless, rugged, and built to last. There’s something about denim that stands the test of time, both in style and wearability. It’s a fabric that ages gracefully, each piece becoming more unique the longer you have it. This durability is what makes denim on denim such a compelling style—it’s not just about layering fabrics but layering stories and history.
7. Total Stud
Lately, I’ve been obsessing over all things studded. From jackets to boots and even bags, studded fashion is making a serious statement this season. There’s something about those little metallic details that instantly elevate an outfit, adding a bold edge while still feeling polished. Whether it’s subtle studs along the seams or an all-out studded leather jacket, these pieces have a way of transforming a look from simple to standout.
What I love most about studded fashion is its versatility. You can go all-in with a statement piece, or incorporate it in a more understated way—like a studded belt or clutch. Either way, it brings a touch of rebellious energy, blending toughness with style. With studded pieces popping up in so many collections lately from A.L.C’s Simone Studded Leather Bag, Mango’s Studded Leather Jacket, and Bimba Y Lola’s Studded Leather Ballerina Flats, this trend is proving to be more than just a fleeting moment; it’s a total stud takeover.
8. The Essence of Countryside Ralph Lauren
Envision grassy fields stretching as far as the eye can see, where riding boots and wool knit blazers effortlessly blend into the landscape. It’s a style that evokes a sense of adventure and sophistication, grounded in a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Drawing inspiration from old Ralph Lauren ads, this aesthetic is celebrated through images of serene countryside settings, where the grandeur of the outdoors meets classic American fashion. The ads depict models dressed in rugged yet refined pieces—tweed jackets, equestrian gear, and tailored blazers—that embody the spirit of a sophisticated country life. These visuals paint a picture of effortless grace and timeless style, where every piece tells a story of heritage and elegance.
This countryside allure in Ralph Lauren’s designs brings a touch of the pastoral into modern wardrobes, offering a way to embrace the charm of the countryside no matter where you are. The look is both nostalgic and enduring, a perfect blend of ruggedness and refinement that continues to inspire.
9. Vanilla Cashmere Dreams
The inspiration for this piece came to me as I reached the last drops of my Philosophy Fresh Cream perfume. With each spritz, I’m enveloped in a warm, light, sugary embrace—a scent that feels like a soft hug. As I savored the last of that comforting fragrance, I couldn’t help but wonder, why not translate that feeling into something tangible? Something that not only smells warm but feels warm, too.
That’s when the idea of a cozy cashmere sweater came to mind. Cashmere is the perfect physical embodiment of that vanilla warmth, wrapping you in softness and comfort, much like my beloved perfume. The luxurious texture of cashmere is timeless, effortlessly chic, and perfect for cooler days when you crave a little extra indulgence. There’s something about wearing a cashmere sweater that feels like a dream—a vanilla cashmere dream, if you will—giving off that same sweet, cozy energy that lingers long after the last spritz.
10. Western Boho
If you haven’t noticed from the cowhide, suede, and studs, my brain is lassoed in Western dreams. Maybe it’s the Southern girl in me missing home, but Western style—especially the boho crossover—has my Pinterest feed and checkout cart in a serious chokehold. Western fashion isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about quality and durability. Back in the day, clothing wasn’t just made to look good—it was designed to serve a purpose. Sturdy denim and rugged suede jackets were crafted to last, built to withstand tough conditions, and only got better with age.
What I love most is the blend of rugged toughness with delicate details, like dainty frills, which you can see beautifully in Ralph Lauren’s Spring 2002 and 2011 collections. It’s that perfect mix of raw and refined that keeps drawing me in.
11. Boat Club Chic
With J.Crew recently reviving their catalog fashion, I’ve found myself browsing through old J.Crew archives, getting lost in the aesthetic that shaped their golden years, particularly their boat club-esque summer catalogs. Now, I know summer is ending, and like many, I’m eager for fall—but there's something about these catalogs that makes me want to hold onto that summer breeze just a little longer.
It’s time to join the J.Crew Boat Club
There’s something captivating about the clean, effortless look of those pages. The imagery was always polished yet approachable, filled with breezy linens, tailored blazers, and perfectly layered knits that captured the essence of East Coast preppiness.
The allure of "boat club chic" is undeniable—it’s that perfect blend of sophistication and laid-back charm. From classic Breton stripes to sun-kissed skin in loafers, this style feels timeless yet refreshingly modern, especially with J.Crew’s revival.
12. Cuffed Jeans
Lately, as I walk around the city trying not to get lost, I can’t help but notice the street style that walks by. One detail that stands out is cuffed jeans. There’s something about this simple style that adds a subtle touch of detail to any outfit.
Cuffed jeans might seem like a small detail, but they bring an extra layer of interest to classic denim. The folded over hem introduces a relaxed, yet intentional look that makes even the most casual jeans feel a bit more polished. It’s a small tweak that showcases the shoes and creates a sense of balance and structure much like the Madewell Superwide-Leg Jeans, Levi’s 501 90s Cuff Straight, and Reformation Cary Cuffed High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans.
What I love about cuffed jeans is how they can elevate a straightforward look. Whether paired with a simple tee or a cozy sweater, the cuffs add a refined touch without overwhelming the outfit. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest details can make a significant impact on style.
13. Buttery Yellows
Butter yellow has been making the rounds this year, and I couldn’t be happier about it. This soothing shade is a gentle departure from more vibrant hues, offering a soft, calming presence that’s incredibly pleasing to the eye. Its muted warmth brings a subtle brightness without overwhelming the senses, making it a versatile color that works beautifully in various settings. My picks that exude this warm shade is GANNI High-rise wide-leg jeans, Rag & Bone Maxine Cotton Poplin Button Down Shirt, and Parker Thatch Micro Jane Slouch Bag.
14. Stationary Set
I’ve recently fallen in love with the idea of owning a custom stationery set, especially since moving to the city. There’s something about having my own personalized letterhead and thank-you cards that makes even the simplest notes feel special. It adds an intimate, thoughtful layer to my writing that feels like a lost art in today's digital world.
A custom stationery set offers more than just utility—it’s a reflection of personal style and taste. Whether sending a quick note to a friend or a formal thank-you, the unique design and personalized touch make the gesture feel more meaningful. Plus, there’s something so timeless about penning a letter on beautiful paper. It’s a small luxury that brings a sense of nostalgia and connection, perfect for moments that deserve more than just a text.
15. Chiffon Ruffles
We’ll always have Paris, I guess. I’m still reminiscing about Chloé’s F/W 24-25 collection, which debuted last February during Paris Fashion Week under Creative Director Chemena Kamali. In my last "18 Favorites of August" (check it out here!), I dove into the nostalgic essence of the collection and how it brought past bohemian trends into the modern day.
I know I’m circling back to this topic, but it just resonates with me. The delicate yet powerful mix in the designs feels like the perfect balance—a combination that’s missing in my suitcase wardrobe right now. Each piece adds dimension and tells a story with every ruffle the breeze catches. What captivates me most is how such lightweight fabric can make such a bold statement. I don’t think I’ll be getting over this simple yet layered style anytime soon.
16. Pistachio Green
Pistachio green, in particular, has been catching my eye. It’s a soft yet vibrant hue that strikes the perfect balance between refreshing and elegant. This subtle green shade feels like a breath of fresh air among the deeper fall tones, offering a unique pop that stands out without overpowering.
From recent SS25 shows like Coach, Dennis Basso, Sergio Hudson, AKNVAS, and Rachel Comey, it’s clear I’m not the only one enamored with this dash of green. Many of you shared similar sentiments after my recent notes on the delightful pops of color spread across NYFW. Recent pieces I’ve spotted have been Mango Ruffled Chiffon Dress, COS Embellished Mini Shift Dress, and Alexis Journey Jacket. Pistachio is quickly becoming a standout shade for the season, adding a fresh twist to fall’s palette.
17. Personalized Jewelry Box
Lately, I’ve developed a fascination with owning personalized items, and much like the stationery sets I mentioned before, a personalized jewelry box has made its way to the top of my list. Since moving, I’ve realized I don’t have much to keep my things organized, and my jewelry tends to overlap or get misplaced.
18. Birthday Cake
Last but not least, in celebration of my September favorites landing on the 18th, I wanted to give a nod to my birthday—the inspiration behind this very Substack. Today, I officially turn the big 2-4. I’ve never been one to make a big deal about my birthday, and honestly, I’m carrying that same sentiment today. So, instead, this post will serve as my celebration.
For my 18th favorite, I discovered a bakery in Brooklyn called By Clio, and their cakes look like they’re straight off my Pinterest feed. It's the perfect sweet treat to mark the occasion, even if I'm keeping it low-key.
I hope you enjoyed reading the little joys I’ve been enjoying recently. I would love to know what you have been loving in September. Thanks again!
oooo I love the red! recently I have been looking for a jacket just like the one you posted!