Something Old, Something New
A trio of goodies that proves what was old is new again, only better.
It doesn’t feel quite right to talk about something as lighthearted as shopping right now. But connecting with all of you each week is a salve for my mind and soul, so I wanted to send this new edition out as scheduled. When our days could turn in so many directions in the blink of an eye, I find moments of routine to be comforting, and I hope reading this provides a bit of that for you. At the end of this edition, you’ll find a suggestion for one way to help those affected by the devastating events taking place in Ukraine, if you’re able.
This week, the idea of reinvention is at the heart of these three products. How do we improve on an oldie but goodie? Why do certain designs stand the test of time and how does the way we interact with them change? The items featured below are all updates on classics — they may not look very “new,” but each one meets the moment in its own way.
Wishing you peace.
1. MAC Lipglass in Ruby Woo (£16.50)
Every makeup lover needs a red lipstick in their beauty kit. No other color is as powerful and elegant at the same time. MAC’s retro-inspired matte Ruby Woo red lipstick is truly iconic, dubbed “the most universally flattering red ever” by Glamour. With blue undertones, this rich shade suits every complexion — it’s my go-to color for a quick but impactful beauty look. But if you’re craving a slicker pout, go for the newest version of this famous lip hue with MAC’s Lipglass, a super shiny gloss that can be worn on its own or layered on top of the original for an even bolder finish.
2. ME+EM Longline Bouclé Knit Jacket (£225)
Layered over a dress or paired with jeans and a button-up blouse, a bouclé jacket makes any ensemble feel more sophisticated with minimal effort. But if you love the look but don’t have the Chanel budget, this option from one of my favorite British lines, ME+EM (previously featured here) is the way to go. The reason I chose this jacket is the longer, more modern length. Traditionally, bouclé jackets have a cropped silhouette, which I find trickier to style on a range of body types. This version is less boxy and the cream shade makes it easy to match with absolutely anything.
3. SOPHIA Enjoy Thinking Artemis Sculptures (£35 and up)
It doesn’t get more traditional than a bust of Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and protector of animals and children. Made in Athens, these sculptures by Sophia are both classical and modern at the same time, crafted from a blend known as ceramine and then hand-finished in bold colors. The brand’s motto is “Enjoy thinking,” and all of their home decor items are sure to start a conversation. Available as a bust (small linked above and medium) and also as just a head (in small and medium), they make a striking statement in any space, lending a fun nod to Ancient Greece.
Something to think about …
The people of Ukraine are in desperate need of assistance during this turbulent and terrifying time of war. If you would like to make a donation, I highly recommend World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit founded by chef José Andrés that brings fresh, nutritious meals to people in crisis.
Last week on MIDDI …
