Tried and True
Skip the impulse purchases with three items made for long-term relationships.
Trends can be fun. Impulse purchases can be really fun. For a little while, anyway. But then there are the things you can always count on. The ones you love to give and receive and always come back to once the high of a good deal or excitement of a passing fad wears off. The stuff that just delivers.
This week’s three products are what come to mind when you hear the phrase “tried and true.” They perform as promised, with minimal frills or fuss. You think of them when asked for a recommendation or what you would bring to a desert island. But they also inhabit a part of your routine you don’t have to think about—reaching for them is something you do on autopilot.
Loyalty is a good thing. If it works for you, you’re not missing out on anything.
1. Biologique Recherche Crème Iso-Placenta (£74)
French skincare brand Biologique Recherche is perhaps most famous for their exfoliating lotion, P50. But this moisturizer, whose active ingredients include biomimetic placental protein, yeast and Centella asiatica extract, is another standout. Restorative but not heavy, it’s ideal for oily and acne-prone skin and promotes healing of marks from past breakouts and TikTok skincare experiments. I slather it on at night and my skin looks more calm and even by morning. Full Disclosure: It has a very unique, savory scent. But you’ll get over it pretty quickly once you see the results.
2. AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket (£299)
When I think of timeless wardrobe staples, a leather jacket always makes my list. When cared for properly, they look better with age and can turn a t-shirt and jeans into an outfit in seconds. Founded in 1994 by Stuart Trevor and Kait Bolongaro, London-born AllSaints makes gorgeous leather goods and apparel that add just the right amount of edge to your look, no matter your style. The Dalby is a classic biker jacket—not too many zips or buttons, no fringe—the kind you’ll find yourself constantly grabbing to pair with everything from tea dresses to wool trousers.
3. Beekman 1802 6-Pack Artisan Bathroom Soap ($24)
Everyone needs a go-to gift. I’m a longtime fan of Beekman 1802 founders Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge—aka The Fabulous Beekman Boys—and their line of artisanal and farm-fresh products. Their elegant set of six identical round soaps is one of my preferred host/hostess/housewarming gifts. Also known as “guest soaps” you can put them out for visitors to make your bathroom feel like a hotel’s. Each 2 oz. bar is made with their famous goat milk to leave hands clean and soft. And because scent is so personal, I love that these don’t have an overwhelming aroma.
Something to think about …
I love viewing art, and not being able to visit galleries and museums for more than a year definitely weighed on my soul. One of my favorite Twitter accounts is Artists of Colour, which shares beautiful works in a variety of mediums. It’s an excellent way to discover artists both new and new to you and help promote their work.