The Icons
Shop smarter with these picks from three brands that have stood the test of time.
A lot of things are called “iconic” before their time these days. Viral moments in fashion, beauty and entertainment are quickly labeled as such when we have no idea how they’ll be reflected on down the line.
To me, staying power is what makes a product genuinely iconic. These things continue to evolve without losing the essence or quality of the original. Every detail of their design has been carefully thought out for both style and functionality, which is why they’ve found a place in the lives of so many.
The three products in this week’s roundup were created by storied brands that have all earned their status as iconic. As is always the goal with MIDDI, these are purchases you can feel good about right now and down the road.
Go for the real thing.
1. NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30/PA+++ (£34)
The old expression “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” definitely applies to my relationship with this product. This tinted moisturizer from NARS, the cosmetics brand founded in 1994 by François Nars, was one of the first products of this kind I’d ever used. I loved how light it was and the coverage it provided. Plus, it agreed with my acne-prone skin. I left it behind for a few years to try every one of its successors, then went back to it recently and I’m happy to report it’s still the best out there in terms of texture, color and compatibility with the other products in my routine.
2. Birkenstock Kyoto Sandal (£125)
This shoe is a twist on an old favorite. I was first introduced to Birkenstock, which has been in business since 1774, and their signature Arizona sandals during a school trip to Germany when I was 16. This newer version, made with nubuck leather and suede and available in six colors, features their signature anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed. I love the fusion between German and Japanese design in these shoes, which compliments any warm-weather ensemble. The Kyoto is made for everyone and will have a place in your wardrobe for many summers to come.
3. The Missoni Family Cookbook (€60)
Italian fashion house Missoni was started in 1953 by Ottavio and Rosita Missoni. It remains a family-run business, specializing in colorful, bold knitwear and home goods. It’s a brand I always draw inspiration from (and someday hope to be able to afford). When they released their cookbook, I had to snap it up to see what this iconic family serves up for special events and daily meals. It’s a beautiful book, full of unique recipes and stories that reminds me of the Sunday dinners we had growing up in my Italian-American family.
Something to think about …
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