Take It Easy
Settle into the slower pace of spring with these laid-back picks.
This past weekend, I felt the last traces of winter finally leave my body. The warm sun drew us outside with no need to rush back home any time soon. Awash in gorgeous shades of pink and green, the city felt happier and more alive, like we were all finally thawed out and able to breathe a bit more easily. When we talk about spring as the season for fresh starts, this must be why.
My three finds this week can help you enjoy a more leisurely pace this season, between the chaos of the holiday season and a summer schedule that may be busier than it has been in a while. Each one can get you out into the sunshine more quickly for more time with those you’ve been missing.
Spring is here.
1. Heliocare 360° Color Oil Free Gel (£32.99)
After a couple of years of playing around with too many lots of products, I’ve been looking for more options that pull double duty. This sunscreen from Heliocare, one of the brands from Spain’s Cantabria Labs, has to be one of my top-five finds of late. It’s my go-to sunscreen, and foundation for those of us who hate foundation. With SPF50, PA++++, Fernblock® antioxidant support, DNA repair enzymes and more, it protects the skin against UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared-A, while having a light, serum-like texture. It sets fast for medium coverage and that fresh, no-makeup look.
2. Levi's Essential Western Shirt (£70)
A denim shirt is another wardrobe staple I think everyone should have in their closet. And it’s hard to find a brand that makes a better one than California’s own Levi’s, founded in 1852. I first bought one of their Western-style shirts more than a decade ago and I love their versatility. These shirts can be worn buttoned up and tucked in, tied up in front or open as a light jacket for cooler evenings. They can be paired with virtually any bottom and both look and feel better with time. If you’re interested in a different spin on this classic, try their Victorian-inspired option.
3. Greenfield Collection Deluxe Picnic Backpack Hamper (£49.99)
Picnic culture is one of my favorite aspects of London life. People will spend all day in the park with food, drinks and friends, sans phones. My mother-in-law gifted us one of these picnic sets from Greenfield Collection for Christmas, and it’s perfect to take to nearby Battersea Park or Kensington Gardens for lunch. The pack holds dishes, linens and utensils for two, a cutting board and knife, salt and pepper shakers, a bottle opener and stopper, and a bag for tidying up. There are two insulated compartments for beverages and a larger one that holds plenty of food.
Something to think about …
One way to take it easy we’re all more than familiar with by now is streaming a TV show. But now that the weather is nicer, I don’t want to spend as much time indoors, so I’m taking the soundtrack of one of my favorites along with me to relive the fun without the screen time.
Last week on MIDDI …
