I can’t believe I am writing posts like this. After living a lifetime in Bangalore and Chennai, where one didn’t really shop for the seasons, I am quite excited this time around. Only, I goofed up some of my pension, ISA, and ESPP contributions, resulting in practically my entire payslip going into all these various savings schemes—which, in hindsight, is probably a good thing.
I am considering some things from afar, but if things look better next month, I may probably just go ahead.
Adidas SL72 trainers
It’s the end of summer and time to put away all my bright, colorful clothes. But maybe, just maybe, I can make an exception for these shoes.
I love both of them equally. I tried them in the shop and they are also amazingly comfortable. Not the most practical perhaps for rainy weather (since it’s pony hair), but definitely attention-grabbing. I saw someone wearing the leopard print ones on the tube, and it’s stunning! I couldn’t keep my eyes off them.
Planner – Hobonichi or Smythson
It’s that time of year. August is when Hobonichi does this elaborate preview of all their 2026 planner and stationery line-up. Earlier in the year, I had briefly flirted with the idea of going a bit posh with the planning and get a Smythson. But I really can’t justify the expense, and to be honest, my style of planning and memory keeping (overload of stickers, colored inks, stamps, and more) is probably more suited to the Hobonichi. Plus, this year, they have collabs with Moomins and Tamagotchi as well. Damn! I am really spoilt for choice!
Pendleton robe
Yes, Pendleton is a very crunchy granola type of clothing. Yes, it’s not my style at all. Still, I was going through some vintage bins when I came across a couple of their cardigans. And it was so amazingly soft and warm that I almost bought one, ignoring the big sauce stains on the front. Thankfully, common sense hit, and I dropped it at the last minute.
Still, the brand recall factor was pretty high, and one random scrolling day, I hit upon their bathrobes, and I am now patiently waiting and hoping for one of these colorways to come on sale. I really want to lean into the snug in a robe sipping hot chocolate reading a book aesthetic.
Chanel Les Beiges water fresh tint
In office, practically everyone wears foundation. I went bare-faced the first few weeks but couldn’t stand seeing my dry skin in the office restroom side by side with the glowing, shiny faces of my colleagues. So, I succumbed and for the first time in my life (actually second, I was caked up in foundation on my wedding day), started wearing foundation to work.
I tried the Chanel Les Beiges one in Medium Plus, and I recommend it highly. It’s barely there and perfect for people like me who prefer less coverage. All it does is even out my face, so blush and powder sit a little bit better. It’s quite expensive, though, and once I run through this bottle, I will be looking around for some cheaper dupes.
Vuori jacket
My ancient (12 years old) Uniqlo down jacket is fraying and has almost flattened out, with all the down escaping from it over the years. It’s now only fit for use as a not-too-efficient raincoat. I went to the mall looking for another Uniqlo replacement, but chanced upon this brand called Vuori. This jacket fits well, and it’s even warmer than my Uniqlo, plus it’s on sale. So if online reviews are positive, I just might be picking this one up.
So, that’s it. With all these purchases, I think I”ll be sorted over Christmas and the new year! No need to get anything else.
