Coach had two viral bags this fall. The first is the Brooklyn, which is a style that I have loved and raved about for a while now (you can view my posts about that bag here). The second is a bag from the Coach Outlet called the Hadley.
The Hadley is a bag that appeared on my TikTok newsfeed a few months ago, with the suede option being one of the most popular of the colorways. After hemming and hawing over whether or not I wanted to add this bag to my collection, I finally caved. And when it finally arrived, I switched into it and haven’t switched out of it.
What I like about the Hadley bag versus the Coach Brooklyn is that the very fact that you have options. There are three ways to wear this bag: crossbody and over the shoulder on the longest setting and then the short setting over the shoulder. Shoulder bags have been all of the rage this year and this bag is easy to just throw over the shoulder and go.
That being said, this bag holds a ton. Here’s what I carry in this bag on a daily basis:
It’s the start of a new month, so that means that it’s time to share my favorites of the previous. This past month I spent a lot of time binging some shows, and loved every minute of it.
One Star Romance by Laura Hankin: This book was so good, that I did not give it one star. I gave it five. This book took place over the span of 10 years, and was about the maid of honor and the best man, who had given the maid of honor’s book one star on Goodreads. They, connected though their mutual friends, run into each other during each event. This was the ultimate enemies to lovers story, and I absolutely loved it.
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: I was addicted to this show the past month. I just immersed myself in this reality television world, and absolutely loved it and already can’t wait for the second season.
Coach Outlet Pouch Wristlet: I am so obsessed with this, to the point where I have this in both black and brown. I love this because it’s a small cube of a wristlet, that allows me to fit even my car keys and even a little lip gloss, because we all know that I have a ton of those. I highly recommend this one over the other more famous version of the wristlet because you can fit so much more.
Tell Me Lies: I finally got around the second season of this show, and let me tell you, it was intense, guys. The finale left my jaw on the floor. I can’t wait for season three.
Ruinous Love Trilogy: Another series that I’ve been reading and binging is the Ruinous Love trilogy. I read the first two books, and absolutely loved them. They were spicy, addictive, and passionate. You can feel the angst bleeding off of the pages. I highly recommend these if you are looking for something that is both smut and passionate.
Tree Hut Pumpkin Spice Scrub: Last but certainly not least is this scrub. I have been loving the scent of this product, as it’s the perfect scent for fall, and I’ve been enjoying using this up. And, I already purchased a backup for this as I’ve been running low.
From stickers to bookmarks, the Etsy shop MarkItLikeItsHot has everything a bookworm could love and then some from stickers to booksleeves to her adorable bookmarks. Courtney, the shop owner, has an amazing selection of goodies, from seasonal to funny little quotes that draw a smile from a book lover.
I’ve had the excellent opportunity to chat with Courtney about her shop, brand, and of course, books. I invite you to continue reading, and then give her a follow on Instagram!
Photo Credit: Courtney Fisler
Tell me about your brand. How did you get your Etsy shop started?
My Etsy shop is markitlikeitshot. I sell bookmarks, stickers, book sleeves, kindle sleeves & blind dates with a book! I started my business in the summer of 2022. I had refound my love of reading and I hate dog earring, so I was just using random objects as bookmarks. I was also nannying that summer & the kids loved to read so I suggested going to get some fun things to make bookmarks. From there things just spiraled and I’ve never looked back. Things have grown way more than I ever expected!
How do you get inspiration for your bookmarks, and stickers?
Majority of the artwork in my shop comes from other small artists – I will have ideas in mind for a launch and then pick artwork that fits the theme. Every once in a while when I have an idea I’ll turn it into a bookmark but graphic design is not my strong suit. I love the chance to support other small businesses by purchasing artwork for my shop as well!
Photo Credit: Courtney Fisler
Are items made to order?
I mostly run my shop on inventory so it is made and then listed online, it helps to keep processing time quick! I have worked with people on custom orders though!
How often do you update the shop or have drops?
I try and do a drop every other month or so but it just depends on how busy life is at the time! I am always working on the next set of products though 😊
Do you have any other bookish items in your shop?
I sell bookmarks, stickers, book sleeves, kindle sleeves & blind dates with a book!
Can you describe what your monthly subscription is?
For my monthly subscription I send out three bookmarks at the beginning of every month. One bookmark is the exclusive bookmark of the month that only can be gotten through subscription, and then I picked two bookmarks from the shop each month as well.
What are you reading currently?
I am currently reading. Say you still love me by K. A. Tucker.
Do you have a favorite genre?
romance & thriller!
Photo Credit: Courtney Fisler
In addition to running a Bookish Etsy shop, you also have an amazing and aesthetic bookstagram. Do you have any advice for growing a bookstagram?
I think one of the best ways to grow your cat is just to Make genuine interactions with other people! As far as making content, I find it easiest to batch content and schedule it for the week!
Over the past year, I have taken a deep dive into Coach bags, both vintage and new. One bag that has made the list of obsessions, and has gone viral is none other than the Coach Brooklyn. For me, this is reminiscent of the leather vintage Coach bags that I have taken joy with restoring.
The Coach Brooklyn blew up over the summer. At first, the bag came in two sizes — the 28 and the 39 — but recently, Coach introduced the 23 as well. The bag comes in a gorgeous Coach cherry red, black, dark stone, and the famous Maple brown that is always sold out. I currently have the 23 and the 28. Personally, I feel that the 39 is huge, but it would make the perfect work bag since it is rumored to fit a laptop.
The bag is such a simple bag. No matter what size, It is a simple shoulder leather bag with a magnetic snap enclosure, however, the Brooklyn 23 comes with a gold chain crossbody option.
That being said, I have been using the Brooklyn as my go-to daily bag. I have two 28s, the black and the Maple, and I am absolutely obsessed with them. The 28 is my daily ride or die bag. It fits everything that I can possibly need — work ID to wallet to even my Kindle Paperwhite. I have used it for weeks on end without switching the bag, and if you’re a bag lover like me, you know that speaks volumes.
As for the 23, I find that it is the perfect weekend/on the go bag. It fits my phone, wallet, a lip balm, and a hand sanitizer. While it is smaller that the Brooklyn, it still is perfect for both day to night.
What I love about the bag personally is the fact that it is such a classic piece. It is something that I can wear daily, and with any outfit. There are no logos — other than the gold stamped Coach on the very top, so it’s something that can truly last for a while.
It is also effortless. For both sizes, I can just throw them on and not have to worry about the bag being too casual or too dress. For the 28, I can just load it up with my stuff and throw it on my shoulder. Easy peasy. That is something that I absolutely love about a good quality piece in my wardrobe.
That being said, I do have a few complaints. The first is that due to the magnetic closure, there is no zipper. Most of the time, this is not a problem, however, sometimes when the bag flops over — which it is known to do because this bag doesn’t have much structure especially when it’s empty — stuff does come out. For me, this usually means something small comes out like a lip gloss or something of that nature.
Secondly and quite possibly the biggest complaint that I have with this bag is the fact that the only option I have to wear this bag, at least for the 28, is on the shoulder. I love a good shoulder bag, don’t get me wrong, but I need to also sometimes have the option for a crossbody for when I need to be hands free when walking around.
And finally, one thing that is not a compliant, but is something that I would like to see is Coach coming out with a size that is in between the 28 and the 39. The 39 is much, much, much too big for me, however, sometimes, the 28 can be too small. It’s not a compliant, like I said, however, it’s something that I wouldn’t mind seeing from Coach in the future.
With that being said, I do think that the bag is worth it. The quality, in my opinion, is so much better than some of the luxury bags that are circulating on the market these days. Furthermore, the fact that this is a bag that can be worn with so many things makes it something that is easily worn all day everyday. I keep on going back to this bag because I miss it, and it’s something that I am sure that I am going to wear not only in the upcoming months, but in the upcoming years. Talk about a great investment piece. As I get older, bags like these are something that I tend to gravitate towards, and this one is no exception.
Overall, this is a bag that I can see being worth it — no matter what size you go for. However, if you’re like me and want to also have a crossbody option, this bag may not be the best choice for you.
Happy Friday, everyone! It’s been a busy week but a good one overall. I have quite a few things to share with you, and I’m so excited to do so and then get into the weekend!
So without further ado, here are this week’s favorites!
Coach Flap Snap Card Case: Jessy from Jessy and the Bags shared this on her video about the Coach Hadley from the Coach Outlet. I love this card case. It is small, but it packs a huge punch. I love that it’s black leather and it’s small enough to go into whatever bag I want as well. It’s not on the Coach Outlet website, but you can purchase it from your local outlet!
Coach Outlet Pouch Wristlet:This is my second favorite new Coach Outlet item and I’m obsessed. I love Coach wristlets but this takes it up a notch. It is deeper and it holds so much more than my original ones do. I love it and it’s the perfect grab and go bag.
One Star Romance by Laura Hankin: I loved this book. I gave One Star Romance five stars! I loved this romance and am so happy that I picked it up. It tells the story of Natalie and Rob, who are best friends to Gabby and Angus. I loved everything about this book — the spread out timeline, enemies to lovers trope (Rob gives Natalie’s book one star on Goodreads), gabby and Natalie’s friendship, and the GROWTH of the characters. I highly recommend reading this one.
The Secret Life of Mormon Wives: I have been binging this show all week and that’s all I have to say about that. At the time of writing this, I have less than one episode left to finish.
Made by Mary Live-In Hoops: I have had these in my jewelry box for well over a year now. However, I just recently put them in. I have all of the sizes, but I have been currently loving the mini ones in my second piercing. They are really comfortable and you can leave them in for days.
As a reader and a Bookstagrammer, one of my favorite activities to do is a Blind Date With a Book event that is hosted by Bookish Babe and Brews. I’ve gone to two events with one of my bookstagrammer friends, and have had magical experiences with both. That community is amazing, and something that I look forward to; from picking out a book that is gorgeously wrapped to getting a sense of community.
Caroline and Alyssa have grown their business and now travel across the state to bring a cozy atmosphere to all. I got the chance to chat with Caroline and Alyssa, the girls behind @ BookishBabeandBrews to learn their story, and of course, get some spooky recommendations if you’re looking for some.
1. How did you get started with Blind Date with a Book?
We met in grad school in January of 2020. When we found ourselves stuck at home during quarantine, we decided to start buddy reading, or what we like to call our two person book club. Our first buddy read was The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab! We are both lifelong readers, but quarantine had us reading more than ever. Our buddy reading turned into our Bookstagram in 2023. We shared what we were reading and our bookish adventures. In the fall of 2023, we had the idea to turn our love of reading into a small business. We love discussing books, and Blind Date with a Book is our way to do that and create a community of bookish friends.
2. What do you guys do when you’re not hosting events?
When we aren’t hosting events, we are reading books, selling books, and teaching kids to read. Caroline is the lead kids bookseller at an indie book store and Alyssa is a special education teacher and yoga teacher! We are also theater kids at heart and love going to see shows together. In August we saw Cabaret, which will definitely stick with us forever.
3. What kinds of books do you like to read?
Alyssa is a lit fic girl at heart, but does read a bit of everything.
Caroline is truly a mood reader, but is always down for fantasy and contemporary romance. Just like Alyssa, she reads a bit of everything.
4. What is the process of getting a book ready for Blind Date with a Book?
Our living rooms consist of so many stacks of books! First we make sure that each book is in good condition to sell. We add them to our spreadsheets that track our inventory and our blurbs. Then we get to do the fun part which is to write the blurbs and decorate the books! We often watch a musical or listen to music while we work. What used to be a long slow process moves pretty quickly now! Sometimes we finish 30-40 books in one session.
5. Where do you get the books from?
Many of our books come from our own shelves and donations! Donations mean so much to us and we really appreciate them. We also thrift books as needed.
6. What events do you have coming up?
10/27 – Perkatory in Middletown 11:00-3:00 pm
11/17 – No Worries Brewery in Hamden 2:00-4:30 pm
12/15 – New Haven Silent Book Club 12:00-2:00 – All are welcome! @silentbookclubnewhaven
7. What are you reading now?
Alyssa – Blood at the Root by LaDarrion Williams
Caroline – Heir by Sabaa Tahir
8. What is your favorite spooky book recommendation?
We both recommend our buddy reads from January: If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio. Spooky Shakespeare! But Caroline recommends The Shepherd King Duology by Rachel Gillig and Alyssa recommends Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas!
It’s Friday, guys. If you had a long week like I did, I am happy to report that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Furthermore, I am even happier to report that I have a three day weekend, which is going to be so nice to have an extra day.
As we count down the hours until it’s time to clock out, let’s spend a few minutes reflecting on my favorites for the week:
Charlotte Tillbury Eyes Mezzmerize in Oyster Pearl: I love this eye shadow. It’s sort of a creamy feature, and it goes on so nicely. I love that this is an easy way to put on eye makeup, and it’s something that looks amazing.
Coach Brooklyn 28: I love Coach bags. I recently switched back to this one, and I have been loving it. It is the perfect floppy leather bag. I have it in the maple bag, and it’s great for the fall season. This has become my go-to, and I am so glad that I have gotten this in both colors.
Emily in Paris: I absolutely love this show, and I am one episode away from finishing this season. I can’t wait to grab my crocheting, and cozy up to this show.
Coach Card Case with Handle: I love this Coach card case. I got this mainly to have the ability to use both as a small bag and as a wallet. I have been using it as a wallet for the last few days, and I love it. I have yet to use it as a crossbody, but this is by far one of my favorites from the fall collection. And yes, I got the crystal one and I am obsessed with the sparkle.
Tree Hut Pumpkin Spice Scrub: I just opened this one, and I am so happy I decided to try it. I am a pumpkin spice girly. Give me the lattes, bread, and goodies. However, this smells like fall in a fragrance. I love Tree Hut, and I love this scent.
One of the not so new trends on the jewelry scene is the concept of permanent jewelry, which is a bracelet — or anklet, necklace, ring — that is welded to you. Many of these pieces are often small, dainty ones, rather than chunky pieces, and are done with gold fill, sterling silver, or even 14k gold metals.
Now, what is a permanent bracelet?
What makes a piece of jewelry permanent is the fact that it is welded, or “zapped” together with a jump ring.
Last month, I got a permanent bracelet in the name of research of my piece about Interlinked Jewelry, which was a fantastic experience, and I absolutely love the piece. I have a hamsa charm on the chain, and it’s something that I love because I believe that it brings me so much good luck and energy.
When I got my permanent bracelet done a month ago, there were two friends in front of me that got matching anklets as a friendship bracelet. I think getting something like that truly adds meaning to a trend, because truly, it’s a grown up version of a friendship bracelet made out of knotted embroidery floss.
That being said, there are pros and cons to added a piece of permanent jewelry to your stack.
The pros?
Well, there’s no clasps, since it is welded on. No more fighting with clasps, and having to find someone to put the bracelet on for you. Furthermore, there are no worries about metal allergies, as these type of bracelets are in fact made of precious metals (which can be good to note when going through airport security).
A strange thing that I do love about this bracelet is that it saves you so much time in the morning. If you take away from the fact that you’re not trying to put something on, there is also the fact that you don’t have to think about these bracelets. They are there, and you just have a little hint of sparkle always with you.
The cons?
I think the biggest con is that they can be destroyed when going through a medical procedure/emergency. Since it is welded on you, it can get cut off. However, if you’re able to save the chain, then many places can put it back on for you.
I get it, though. Permanent jewelry is something that is a trend and is not for everyone. There are people out there in the world who need to remove all of their jewelry prior to going to sleep. However, this is a trend that I love, and definitely am glad that I jumped on with two feet.
Yes, I know that I’m a little late for this, but I’m finally hopping on here to talk about all of the products that I went through during the month of September. I’m so happy to report that I’ve been going through quite a bit of my products, and have finished a few more than normal.
Into the Night Bath and Body Works Shower Gel: With this being finished, I finally am on the last product in my Bath and Body Works stockpile. I loved this scent, and I am hoping to eventually grab it again once I run out of the last one.
Moroccan Oil Color Complete Shampoo: I love using Moroccan Oil shampoo and conditioner once a week to help bring moisture in to my hair and prevent dryness. I have the color complete one solely because my mother in law, who actually colors her hair, uses it. I do like this brand, however, I don’t recommend (at least for me) to use this daily.
Summer Fridays Vanilla Beige Lip Gloss: This was the Summer Fridays Lip Gloss that started my whole obsession. I love this product, and while I didn’t replace this exact one, I am obsessed with the regular Vanilla one, as it doesn’t have much of a tint.
Cancer Moon Healing Spray: I have been using this for over a year, and I’m actually sad that this spray is now finished. I already have a backup that I am using, and I find it so helpful. I am a cancer, and the healing properties for this one are to give love and support, something that I use when I’m feeling down and in need of extra TLC. I highly recommend getting a bottle of this, or any of their healing sprays, because I find that they really give you whatever you may need.
Sleepy time Roller Ball: I have been having issues with sleeping for a while, and while I can’t find thing one online, I highly recommend using essential oils if you’re having trouble with sleep, or trying to fall asleep, because I found that it helps.
Aquaphor Lip Balm: Yes, I love lip balms. This has been my go-to for the last few months, and yes, I already have a backup that I have been using regularly. I love this because it moisturizes my lips without leaving them too greasy. I am sure that I will be going through this a lot quicker as the fall and winter season come and my lips are screaming for moisture.
Tree Hut Birthday Cake Scrub: I love, love, love Tree Hut scrubs. No, I don’t have a stash of this that I constantly go through. However, I do use it pretty regularly. It is so wonderful on my skin. While I can see the hype of this product, and highly recommend it, I recommend only buying one at a time.
It is the first day of October, and for the first time in years, I have decided not to participate in Blogtober. While I am appreciative of all the opportunities that I have had through participating, I am not appreciative of the added pressure. So, instead, we’re going to reflect on my favorites over the month of September.
Coach Cary Shoulder Bag: This bag is my new go-to, and I am obsessed with this one. It is so roomy, and I like that you can wear it both crossbody and as a shoulder bag. I have it in the dark stone, and I absolutely love it, as it is the perfect neutral.
The Perfect Couple: I read this book a few years ago, and I absolutely loved it. I also really enjoyed the show. I didn’t binge it, but once I was in an episode, I couldn’t stop watching.
Jenny Bird Gia Bangle: This bracelet has been in my stacks for the last couple of weeks since I picked it up. I love this because it is both chunky and dainty, if that makes sense. It is also really comfortable for me to wear.
Over the Influence by JoJo: If you’ve been here for a while, you know that I am a huge JoJo fan. I read her memoir this month, and I enjoyed every word. It opened my eyes as JoJo the person, and a lot about the behind the scenes of the music scene. I highly recommend checking this out, even if you did not listen to JoJo as a kid.
Air and Anchor Necklaces: I have been wearing mine since I purchased this during my one-year anniversary trip. I recently added a longer chain to my collection, and I have been obsessed. I love layering them together, and they are definitely my go-to jewelry pieces.
Coach Essential Slim Card Case: I am obsessed with this card case. I love it because my cards are so organized, and I can find whatever I need with ease. However, it is still small enough that it fits in tiny bags as well as large. It is a simple wallet — no branding, just leather, but functional.
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