Whenever September rolls around, I always feel a new lease of life.
It might be because it’s my birthday month, it might be because I’m originally from the UK and so I associate it with the new school year and a sense of new season crispness.
But it always feels like a time to set new goals, get into new things and invest in some new pieces.
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This month, some of my favourite things come with a feeling of new season energy.
Take Aesop’s new fragrance, Unforeseen Aer, for example.
After attending a fragrance workshop that went into the exact composition of the eau de parfum, I was able to appreciate its minerality and freshness all the more.
Now, whenever I open that bottle I’m taken back there.
Elsewhere, this month, I’ve been investing in new fake tans (summer, I can smell it), a trans-seasonal cardigan from UNIQLO and dining out at a restaurant that deserves all the plaudits it is getting: Woodcut Dining.
Below, my September favourites.
1. Aesop Unforeseen Aer Eau de Parfum, $290
Aesop Unforeseen Aer Eau de Parfum, $290. Credit: Aesop
Top of my list this month has to be this brand new fragrance launch from the Melbourne brand with global fame, Aesop.
Billed as a “fragrant fable of fresh, aromatic, mineral character, taking the mind to rugged, wind-blown heights”, this scent really is a breath of fresh air the moment you spray it on to your skin or clothes.
It’s rare that I find a new scent that might become one of my signatures, but this one might have just done it.
Combining Nutmeg with Pure Air Accord, the perfume feels crisp, spring-like and invigorating when you smell it.
It creates an accord of Pure Air via Geranium, Lavandin and Rosemary, but it’s then grounded by the textured warmth of Nutmeg.
While this fragrance is beautiful to smell, it’s also gorgeous to look at — and already has pride of place on my vanity.
Housed in a newly redesigned bottle with an embossed Aesop insignia, the bottle has a textured cap inspired by basalt — a rock on which Melbourne was quite literally built.
I’ve been wearing the scent mostly during the day, but think it can easily be worn or layered at night, too.
The perfect gift for someone you care about as we get into the holiday season.
Other beauty buys I’m loving this month…
* Dolce & Gabbana Ever Youth Gold Eye Serum, $166: I’m a sucker for a good eye serum, especially when it comes encased in gold. This Dolce & Gabbana offering really does the trick. With a perfect cool-to-the-touch metal dispenser, it’s like a cool, refreshing glass of water for the delicate under-eye area. I’m addicted to swiping it under my eyes whenever I need a refreshed and revitalised look.
* Invity Microshot Collagen Serum, $126: This do-it-all serum has everything you might want in a buzzy skincare product and more, and it really delivers in terms of the results, too. From biomimetic collagen peptides, to vegan PDRN, exosomes and a spicule microneedle delivery system, I’ve been putting this on every night for the past three weeks — and marvelling at my somewhat diminished fine lines and fresh glow. Yes, at $126, it’s expensive — but it is the only thing I’ve changed in my beauty regime recently, and I’ve noticed a difference. Big tick.
* Elacia Sea Foam Tan, $73: With summer coming up (woohoo), I’ve been looking to try out a new fake tan that won’t make me look a) orange and b) streaky. Step forward this gorgeous product by Aussie brand, elacia. Selling out twice in six months, the clear non-transferring foam is a gamechanger for me, insofar as it gives a beautiful golden glow, but also comes via a skincare-led formula packed full of hydrating ingredients. I’ve been applying this when I have events coming up, and pairing it with the face drops. It’s fantastic — and literally doesn’t transfer.
2. UNIQLO C Washable Milano Ribbed Full Zip Cardigan, $79.90
UNIQLO C Washable Milano Ribbed Full Zip Cardigan, $79.90. Credit: UNIQLO
When it comes to basics you’ll want to wear again and again, UNIQLO is my go-to brand.
Which is why when the new UNIQLO C collection by renowned British designer Claire Waight Keller dropped last month, I was keen to invest in a few pieces that can take me anywhere.
My favourite piece from this season’s drop is this Washable Milano Ribbed Full Zip Cardigan, $79.90.
Available in a number of colours including red, dark brown, olive, beige, navy and purple, it’s a cardi you’ll want to pull on with jeans, activewear and dresses — perfect in place of a jacket now it’s warming up.
My favourite feature of this cardi is its on-trend funnel neck and the fact that it has pockets.
I also love the fact that it can be dressed up or down. Once again, UNIQLO have done it again.
Other fashion buys I’m loving this month…
* MUJI Washed Linen Shorts, $59.95: Is there anything better than a pair of relaxed, comfy linen shorts when the weather warms up? This pair by MUJI are a fantastic investment for under $60. Crafted from 100 per cent pure linen, they are comfy and breathable, perfect for warm weather while maintaining a relaxed, naturally textured look.
* Rollie Mya Snake Multi Sandal, $240: It’s the Aussie footwear brand known for ultra-lightweight, comfortable shoes with a stylish, colourful edge. And this new sandal from Rollie is no exception. I love the curved effortlessly comfortable feel, as well as the cool on-trend two-tone colour and snake look. Perfect with my newly-tanned legs.
* Sussan Painterly Floral Shorties Pyjama Set, $52.46: Looking for some affordable pretty PJs for spring? Sussan has plenty. My favourite is this feminine, floral two piece short set. Made from 100 per cent cotton sateen, this feels cool and smooth to the touch — perfect as the weather warms up.
3. Woodcut Dining
Woodcut Dining. Credit: Woodcut
I had the privilege of dining at Woodcut at The Crown this month, and it did not disappoint.
The sprawling 300-seat venue is built around four distinct open kitchens centered on Fire, Steam, Smoke, and Ice.
We were lucky enough to sit outside on a beautiful evening watching the sun set over Barangaroo, but we also couldn’t help heading in to watch at the open-plan kitchens and the sheer talent of the chefs making the food.
With all sorts of options to choose from at Woodcut — and menus organised by these elemental preparation methods rather than traditional courses, allowing guests to watch chefs grill over charcoal, steam in kettles, or harvest from chilled raw displays — it can be hard to know where to start.
But the team were knowledgable and helpful in their recommendations to myself and my family, and we managed to try an array of what was on offer at Woodcut.
We enjoyed the Sydney Rock Oysters (delicious! So fresh), the Raw Fish Plate, with Apple, Capers and Apple Vinegar Dressing (a standout for me: a raw fish lover), and then the Robbins Island Rib Eye Butcher’s Cut (simply divine), which we paired with skin-on chips and Ash grilled tied beans with piquillo peppers and yoghurt.
While our young children delighted at the little Woodcutters menu, which provides the perfect fodder for the under 12s.
There’s plenty going on at Woodcut should you wish to visit.
Sundays at Woodcut is a standout offering. The centrepiece is the Margra lamb shoulder, cooked “en Römertopf” style in a traditional clay pot until soft, then finished with softened onions, cavolo nero and garlic crumb, served with wood-roasted cauliflower, potato purée and watercress salad ($140).
But there are also quicker offerings if you want a good feed in a hurry, like the Hickory Express Lunch, available Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm — 3pm for $30.
And I’m a sucker for a good Happy Hour, which is also available every Monday from 5.30 — 7pm and Tuesday — Friday 4 — 7pm.
Think $15 snacks and $15 cocktails. With the weather warming up, how could you say no?
Other foodie buys I’m loving this month…
* Martha’s Cinnamon Scroll, $60: It’s the viral Sydney bakery that foodies know and love. And this month, in honour of their first birthday and some 17,000 cinnamon scrolls sold, Martha’sis going bigger than ever with a limited-edition Giant Cinnamon Scroll Cake, a supersized take on their most-loved and nostalgic pastry. Made with Martha’s signature pastry dough and layered with warming cardamom and cinnamon, the Giant Cinnamon Scroll Cake is finished with a fragrant orange blossom icing, bringing together the nostalgic comfort of a cinnamon scroll with Martha’s signature Mediterranean-inspired twist.
* Spezia: Another new restaurant worth knowing about, Spezia is an open-air courtyard restaurant in Sydney that reimagines Italian dining through the spices of the historic Silk Road. Located in the historic former Department of Lands building, to dine at Spezia is about more than just the food (although the food is delicious). It literally feels like a slice of Italy. Foodie highlights include Grissini with Earl Grey, Tomato Powder and Whipped Butter and Prawn Spaghetti Chitara. The wine list spans over 500 bottles and 36 wines by the glass. Heaven.
* RESTORE: Are you nostalgic for the days when we grew up, when the milkman used to drop a literal bottle of fresh milk by your front door? Those days are back. Disruptive grocery business RESTORE has reimagined how Sydneysiders shop, by rekindling the milkman and delivering weekly staples to customers’ doorsteps through a convenient, plastic-free, subscription-based service. While the nostalgic ritual of the milkman sits at the heart of RESTORE, its offering extends well beyond fresh milk. Customers can also fill their kitchens with products from NSW’s best farmers and producers (Pepe Saya, Tilba Dairy, Flour & Stone, Sonoma to name a few). I tried this on a WFH Friday ahead of my birthday weekend and absolutely loved it. I’ll definitely subscribe.
4. Lozi & Gabe Beach Chair, $179
Lozi & Gabe Beach Chair, $179. Credit: Lozi & Gabe
Lozi & Gabe is one of my favourite brands for cute outdoors-y and beach buys for the whole family to enjoy.
And their new pop-up beach chairs ($179) are no exception.
Designed for effortless beach days, the foldable chairs are lightweight, supportive, and equipped with backpack straps — keeping your hands free for what matters most.
With five adjustable positions for added comfort, I can confirm these beach chairs are the perfect place to settle into, whether you’re reading or wrangling tiny ones on a morning out at the beach.
They’re also easy to pack down and carry once you’re on the long (uphill) walk home.
Other home, outdoors and kids’ buys I’m loving this month…
* PAW Patrol The Dino Movie: Looking for something to do this school holidays? We’ll be going to see PAW Patrol The Dino Movie at the cinema with our PAW-Patrol-obsessed four-year-old. At 88 minutes, it’s the perfect length for their little attention spans. And it looks like it’s pretty good, too.
* Linen House Zeffer Lime, Basil & Mandarin Candle, $69.95: I love a new candle for a new season, and this one looks and smells fantastic. Designed to look as incredible on a coffee table as they smell in the air, the new Linen House Zeffer range brings together punchy, pop-art style packaging with four distinct scent profiles made to match whatever vibe you’re chasing. This zesty energetic option is my favourite.
* Bluey Yoto Card, $19.99: This Bluey Yoto card has been a huge hit in my household since it arrived earlier this month. Featuring eight stories inspired by everyday moments and big adventures and the music from Bluey, my girls are constantly asking for it in the car and at home.
5. P.E Nation Soft Form Soft Luxe Short in Bubblegum, $69
P.E Nation Soft Form Soft Luxe Short in Bubblegum, $69. Credit: P.E. Nation
If you’re wanting to channel a bit of ballet-core this spring, look no further than P.E Nation’s new Soft Form collection.
Built on espresso, blush pink, deep black and whisper white, worked together in soft contrast rather than bold clash, this collection is perfect for the woman who wants her studio kit to look as considered as it feels.
My pick from the launch is the Soft Luxe Shorts in Bubblegum ($69) and matching bra ($79).
Not only are they super stylish, but they’re also extremely soft, and fantastic for Pilates and brunch afterwards.
You can browse the whole collection here.
Other fitness buys I’m loving this month…
* MoveActive Pilates Club Sweater, $89.95: I love a monogrammed sweatshirt for throwing on over class, and particularly when it comes in this on-trend shade of Cabernet. Crafted from a soft cotton blend, it combines effortless style with everyday comfort. It’s an easy layer whatever I’m up to during the day.
* Shokz OpenFit Air 2, $219: This new ice blue colourway has become my go-to earphone when I’m heading out on a run. I love the fact that the earbuds stay effortlessly in my ears at all points, and look good doing so.
* Sodii Salty Chocolate Electrolytes, $68.90: Last but certainly not least, I am absolutely obsessed with these Salty Chocolate Electrolytes after trying them earlier this month. Both chocolatey and deliciously salty, they are the perfect afternoon treat, whether I’ve done a hard run that day or not. 5/5.
