Your October 2023 Horoscope Is Here

october horoscopes 2023

October skies start with Mercury bringing harmony to communication when it enters Libra on October 4 and a more intuitive vibe when it glides into Scorpio on October 22. Venus moves into Virgo on October 8, making us more realistic and concise about what we want from matters of the heart. Pluto in Capricorn ends its retrograde journey that began in May on October 10, allowing us to evolve and grow. Mars enters Scorpio on the 12th, pushing us to attain greatness and complete tasks. The Sun enters evocative Scorpio on October 23, bringing us a sense of rebirth and transformation. The solar eclipse in Libra on October 14 allows us to explore the structure of our relationships, while the lunar eclipse in Taurus on October 28 pushes us to release the past and start anew with others. Continue reading to find out what your October 2023 horoscope has in store for your sign this month.

Aries

Image via Chill Jane/Pexels

You’re not fond of hearing that steady wins the race, but it’s the sentiment you’ll need to embrace this month — until you regain momentum on October 12, when Mars (your planetary ruler) enters Scorpio. Until the powerhouse of your birth chart is activated, you should unwind, decompress, and relax through acts of self-care.

Taurus

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

As long as you have the motivation and drive to move forward, you’ll be able to make shifts and changes if you persevere and believe in your ability to do so. As long as you have an optimistic attitude and positive outlook — the sky’s the limit. Anything is possible.

Gemini

Image via Leeloo Thefirst/Pexels

Your creativity is flourishing, allowing your talents to shine and imagination to go beyond the scope of what you thought possible. Being able to transcend these energies to the canvas won’t be hard, but it will take a few times to practice before getting it right and excelling at it.

Cancer

Image via Zaid Mohammed/Pexels

If you’ve been wanting to escape into your cocoon and keep your heart safe — the two weeks ahead is your time to journey through these emotions. By the time mid October arrives, you’ll be willing to expand your horizons and use the knowledge you’ve recently gained to make progress.

Leo

Image via Cottonbro Studio/Pexels

With all this Mercurial action causing your head to overthink, you may over analyze situations and relationships. This month gives you a chance to “do the right thing,” enabling you to get your noble priorities together—if you choose to be truthful and to use the energy to its highest vibration.

Virgo

Image via Marcus Aurelius/Pexels

October evokes your personal magic by making it strong, while giving you the ability to understand yourself from different perspectives. Once you have reached this heightened state of being, you may feel drawn to share and discuss your new knowledge onto others on the 23rd, when the Sun enters Scorpio.

Libra

Image via Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels

Instead of freezing people out of your life, offer them compassion and empathy. You may find that they’re willing to give others kindness — but they have to learn how to reciprocate the sentiment. The more positivity you radiate and project into situations and relationships, the easier it’ll be to make them work.

Scorpio

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Utilizing the personal insights and clarity that are being brought to you will not only motivate yourself, but also those around you to evolve. Use your brooding intensity to your advantage this week, and make it your mission to be the strongest scorpion on the block — even out of water.

Sagittarius

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Like a game of chess, the month ahead calls for you to assess how you can achieve your goals. This sentiment proves to be real during the last days of Libra season and the beginning weeks of the Sun’s ingress in Scorpio — it will access your subconscious desires and psychological insights.

Capricorn

Image via Anna Nekrashevich/Pexels

You’re more inclined to get your hustle on at this moment in time, due to the cosmic forces pushing you to excel at your professional aspirations. Make sure you find balance and give your personal life some attention to ensure you do not become chained to the office this month.

Aquarius

Image via Katarzyna Grabowska/Unsplash

You never turn your back on friends, since you are the shoulder to cry on in your squad. This is a big responsibility to hold, which is why you should be the sympathetic ear they need. Listen to their sentiments before giving advice to ensure they can speak their minds.

Pisces 

Image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

Instead of burying your head in the sand, it’s important to take stock and to be in the know about your finances. You might want to consider tackling the matter before it becomes an issue. Spreadsheets with a budget that dictate your spending limit could help you assess your budget.

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I spent all of high school, and most of college, avoiding the color red. With my very minimal understanding of color analysis, I'd absorbed the idea that because of my cool undertones, I needed to stick in the blue-green-purple world. Plus, the fact that my alma mater's colors are blue (and one of our rival's is red) meant I'd never really needed shades of cranberry, auburn, or ruby. But one clothing swap, When Harry Met Sally movie night, and red sweater later, and my approach to fashion totally changed. Because just like our skin has cool and warm undertones, so do clothes! Now I love wearing my H&M turtleneck sweater, especially since I can recreate one of Meg Ryan's most iconic outfits.

And when red cardigans started trending for fall this year? I became laser focused on a single mission: find the perfect red cardigan and find it quick. But of course my thorough, Type A, oldest daughter mentality meant that to find the perfect sweater, I had to scroll through hundreds of options. Red cardigans are like wearing red lipstick — they're an easy, bold addition to any outfit! Here are the best results, per my very thorough research.

  • Red cardigans are an easy, bold way to brighten any outfit.
  • Red cardigans can work for any skin tone because they come in so many tones.
  • Here are an editor's picks — including Old Navy, Target, and J. Crew — after scrolling through hundreds of options.

Old Navy SoSoft Crop Red Cardigan Sweater

Old Navy

These Old Navy cardigans have taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. They come in multiple colors, they're ultra flattering, and they're super soft. The 53 percent cotton x 24 percent recycled polyester is like wrapping yourself up in a blanket, but it's not thick enough that you'll sweat through it. And to top it off, while writing this story, the Old Navy site is telling me 3,839other usersviewed this item today. Grab one while you can!

Target Cozy Knit Button-Front Red Cardigan

Target

Target is always one of my favorite places to hop on a trend while staying within my budget, and its red cardigans are no different. This pick had midweight fabric (made with polyester, acrylic, and spandex) and I'm obsessed with the dimension the ribbed cuffs and tortoiseshell buttons add!

Target Rib Pearl Shrunken Sweater Cardigan

Target

Prefer thinner fabric? This red cardigan has the same classy neckline but features faux pearl buttons that Blair Waldorf would be all over. The cropped hemline is perfect for all your high-rise denim, and considering this sweater comes to just $24, you might as well grab another color or the perfect pair of fall shoes.

Banana Republic Red Ribbed Merino Cardigan

Banana Republic

I love a crew neckline, but if you're more a V-neck fan, Banana Republic has you covered. The split cuffs and rib knit is ultra modern, and the slim fit means it's perfect for layering. But my favorite part is BR's Responsible Wool Standard that makes sure the sheep themselves are protected.

Zara Smooth Knit Crop Cardigan

Zara

I'm obsessed with this Zara single-button cardigan just for how unexpected it is. This is great for days you want extra color and dimension but you don't need the warmth of a sweater. The silhouette and square button are classy, but the asymmetrical look gives it a new age look.

Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Rachel Cardigan

Urban Outfitters

If you're looking for a super bright red cardigan, definitely check out this Urban Outfitters piece. If you look closely, you can see it features just a bit of white or gray alongside the red, which makes the whole thing even more eye-catching! Pair with an LBD or my favorite combo: white tee, jeans, and sneakers.

Mango Curly-Knit Red Cardigan With Jewel Buttons

Mango

Speaking of LBDs, if you need a red cardigan to dress up an outfit, this cozy sweater is great for any occasion. Despite the fact the cardigan is all one color, the different designs along the hem, collar, and buttons provide plenty of contrast. I'm a firm believer in "the devil's in the details," and these jewel effect buttons prove it!

J. Crew Featherweight Cashmere Pointelle Shrunken Cardigan Sweater

J. Crew

If you'd describe your style as kitsch, this pointelle sweater will add the perfect dose of creativity to your fall outfits.The design (and four pockets) give it a super cute vintage look, but the cropped hemline and fitted silhouette make it modern enough to go with all the latest trends.

Aritzia Cashmere Relaxed Crew Cardigan

Aritzia

In need of a football game outfit? Something to dress up your grocery store look while staying comfy? This cardigan is what you're looking for. The 100 percent Grade-A cashmere just might make you feel like you're wearing pajamas, and the midweight fabric will keep you warm without leaving you overheated. And once it really gets cold, you can layer it with your favorite turtleneck!

Free People Most Wanted Cardi

Free People

If you're still in desperate need of warm-weather options, this short sleeve piece will give the illusion that you're wearing a cardigan without committing to a thick, fuzzy sweater. The cap sleeves and flayer hem are totally reminding me of all the peplum silhouettes I saw on red carpets this fall. The deep cherry color is also great for anyone who prefers toned-down shades.

French Connection Fluffy Knit Cardigan

Macy's

Every time I see a piece from French Connection, it stops me in my tracks, and this red cardigan is no exception. It's relaxed, it's bold, it's adorable. I love the way the color of the buttons blend into the sweater, while the shiny material still stands out against the fabric. Wear it buttoned with just a bralette or overtop of a bodysuit! It goes good with everything.

Check out 12 Flattering Target Sweaters For Cozy Fall Days for more!

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"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

There are so many different makeup looks trending for fall, from espresso eyes to a classic French red lip. And while everyone's mostly moved on to their autumnal palettes, some trends — like dewy skin and rosy cheeks— carried over from the summer. So while you're working on your new seasonal everyday makeup, sultry date night looks, and everything in-between, how can you stay on trend?

I talked to makeup content creator Victoria Lyn, makeup artist Randall Intrabartola, Beauty and Content Specialist Sophie Vongkhamsaoto get their opinion on what looks are going to be the most popular this fall, so keep reading to hear their thoughts!

Burgundy Lips

Sephora

Sophie Vongkhamsao, Beauty and Content Specialist, let us know that burgundy is already becoming a fall fashion staple, but she also predicts the color will quickly become part of the everyday makeup look! Gone are the neutral shades of summer — this look exudes mystery and moodiness, which is just what we're going for! Vongkhamsao says, "Whether it’s a deep merlot or a plummy wine shade, this lipstick will offer some warmth to your skin — but make sure to pick a shade according to your skin tone. Concentrate on having a steady hand when applying your lipstick as darker shades can get messy."

To top it all off, Vongkhamsao says to add a deep lip liner to solidify the look and a little bit of lip oil to moisturize the lips. While I love a burgundy lip for day-to-day makeup, this color gets bonus points for fitting a vampy Halloween or cozy Christmas party look, so we expect it to only grow in popularity over the next few months!

Subdued Smokey Eye 

Blushington

A smokey eye is a classic and timeless staple — and the dramatic look was especially on-trend for Bratsummer. However, Vongkhamsao says a more subdued version of the look will continue to be trendy throughout the colder months!

This fall, more demure smokey eyes will replace the darker, full glam. In order to achieve this, you'll wanna opt for lighter palettes, leaving the cut crease behind and using lighter grey eyeliner and eyeshadow to highlight your eyes. Vongkhamsao recommends avoiding bright eyeshadows and dark eyeliner, and instead using clear mascara to effortlessly flatter your natural look and lashes!

Grungey Girl Fall Eyes

Victoria Lyn

If you're wanting to take more of a risk and opt for a grungey look, then try the espresso eyeshadow trend. Think tumblr-era-goth vibes, but in a more modern way — the la indie sleeze aesthetic really is back with a veangance. Beauty guru, Victoria Lyn, says that you can achieve this look using an eyeliner or liquid shadow to create an effortless smokey eye in black, brown, or even midnight blues.

This is the perfect makeup trend to end your Brat summer and transition into grungy girl fall. Victoria says that warm spices and jewel tones are the most flattering color palettes for the autumn season. Pumpkin tones, black cherry, and espresso shades are gorgeous not only on the lips but also eyes!

I will definitely be testing this look out myself!

Charcoal-Rimmed Eyes

Randall Intrabartola

We're seeing charcoal-rimmed eyes more and more of this fall! This look is such an easy way to flatter any eye color, but especially those with blue and brown eyes.

Wanna try the trend yourself? Simply, use a charcoal eye pencil to line the eyes on the top and bottom lid from your inner corner, and flick it out to elongate the shape. This will leave you looking wide-eyed and stunning all fall and winter long!

Dewy Skin

Randall Intrabartola

The dewey skin trend was extremely popular in the summer — we're looking at you, Nicola Coughlan — but guess what? It's not going anywhere according to makeup artist Randall Intrabartola. Fashion week after fashion week this year, it's clear this dewy look is sticking around and turning into a trend for fall and winter as well.

I could totally see this trend transforming into somewhat of a "winter-ice-princess" type of look for the colder months ahead! So hold onto your dewy foundations and liquid highlighters, because this is the look for 2024!

Rosy Cheeks

Ajaila Walker

This is yet another summer trend that has definitely trickled its way into fall thanks to Hailey Bieber! She's brought back the rosy cheeks aesthetic in a way we can't escape. And honestly, I'm not mad about it — when cold weather starts to hit, my cheeks get rosy anyway, so why not make it a look?

I think we'll especially start seeing this light pink, iridescent shade like shown above. It's the ideal shade to take you from summer into fall and winter, eventually pairing with darker lipsticks to give a sugar plum kind of look.

French Red Lip

Kayla Walden

Lastly, my favorite trend has to be the classic, and oh-so-timeless French red lip. This is bright red lip is perfect, because bright red happens to be a fall color that's trending this season in fashion! So, it's the perfect way to top off a cute, red look by wearing a matching lipstick as well.

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Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.