Ask the Experts
When it's time to throw some money at the problem, trust the professionals.
If there’s one idea that sums up being a MIDDI shopper, it’s knowing that when you can, it’s worth it to pay for the best from the best. If you’ve tried several OK options and still aren’t happy, it’s time to call in the big guns and trust the advice of experts. Whether it’s a beauty, wardrobe or home conundrum, once you finally find a solution that ticks all of your boxes in terms of functionality and personal taste, the convenience and reliability will be worth the extra cost.
As with all of the products featured here, this week’s three picks were buys preceded by a lot of research as well as some costly trial and error. They were all developed by leaders in their field and deliver as promised. It’s as simple as that.
Sometimes, the hype is warranted.
1. iS Clinical Cleansing Complex (£36)
A good cleanser is the foundation for any minimalist or maximalist skincare routine. I’ve tried the ones that sting, the ones that scrub and the ones that smell like fruit, but none impressed me as quickly as this cleanser from iS Clinical, which I kept seeing all over the beauty web. Started by biochemist Bryan Johns and Alec Call in 2002, the iS Clinical range is an estheticians’ darling. This cleanser has a clean, fresh scent and features willow bark, Camellia Sinensis and sugarcane extracts to exfoliate the skin without stripping. It’s my go-to face wash to reduce congestion and breakouts.
2. Sweaty Betty Stamina Sports Bra (£38)
I don’t know a person with breasts who doesn’t find sports bras terribly frustrating. I also don’t believe a perfect one truly exists. All breasts are unique! But if you’re looking for a medium-impact, lightweight sports bra, this one from Sweaty Betty comes pretty close. Sweaty Betty was launched in 1998 in Notting Hill by Tamara Hill-Norton to not just dress active women, but empower all women. This bra is just long enough with a neck just high enough to contain everything comfortably, with a breathable woven fabric to keep you cool. I’m slowly collecting every color.
3. Ruggable Jonathan Adler Venom Emerald Rug ($90 and up without rug pad)
Give me anything Jonathan Adler. With a new puppy at home, I knew our rugs were destined for the bin. Looking for a more low-maintenance solution, I decided to try Ruggable, the washable rugs created by Jeneva Bell. As soon as I saw their new collaboration with the expert on American glamour, I had to have the emerald version. Now, little puppy messes are easier to clean up, and while I love the look of it, this rug doesn’t feel as precious to me, making it the perfect solution for the time being. Spring for the thicker pad which makes the rugs feel a lot better underfoot.
Something to think about …
As a lover of beauty products, one thing I need to get better at is disposing of all of the packaging in a more eco-friendly way. In the UK, the beauty experts at John Lewis department stores and online beauty retailer LOOKFANTASTIC will gladly recycle your clean jars, bottles, boxes and tubes. In the US, you can take your empty packaging to your local Nordstrom for the same service.