With silly season right around the corner I have been prioritising sorting through my clothing, shoes and products and ensuring everything still in my closet is worth keeping.
Let’s call it spring cleaning fever.
While it’s very tempting to start from scratch — I am whatever you would label an anti-hoarder — I’m making it my mission leading into the end of the year to avoid over spending and only giving gifts I truly believe will be used and well received.
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And so for my usual monthly wrap up of favourites I’ve been very selective about what’s going to make the cut — so rest assured if you choose to gift anything on this list you’ll be making someone’s day and then some.
Or you could just buy these pieces for yourself, I won’t judge.
1. Henderson Bed Cover, $329.99, Sheridan
We might be heading into summer but that doesn’t mean I’ll be shying away from lovely and decadent throws and covers to put on the end of the bed.
I’m notoriously cold in the house, even in the warmer months, so I’ll be snuggling into this deliciously pink and red throw which adds some spring-time cheer to the bedroom.
For the living room it’s the Sano Linen Throw that’s caught my eye for $159.99, particularly in the ‘Tides’ colourway. I tuck this one behind my main Koala armchair to place over my partner when he inevitably falls asleep watching the latest rom com on 7PLUS.
The entire Sheridan Spring Summer 2024 range is impactfully colourful with quilt cover sets galore.
For kitchen lovers the Homegrown T-Towels ($34.99 for two) are some of my favourites because they’re larger than your standard towel — making it even easier to wipe your hands or sling over your shoulder when you’re making a meal.
Other homewares favourites I enjoyed this month:
2. Old Skool Vans in Color Theory Foxglove, $99.99 down from $129.99
I’d like to thank Gen Z for bringing the classic sneakers back in a big way and allowing our poor millennial feet a break from our high heels.
This new colourway in the classic Old Skool Vans work perfectly with a summery dress, a pair of jeans and even a pair of denim shorts so you can mix and match your shoes to suit your style.
I’ve been wearing them all around the office to ensure I’m not only on trend but also comfortable, with the pink earning itself quite a few compliments.
There are plenty of shades to choose from now so you can decide what’s right for you.
Other fashion favourites I enjoyed this month:
3. UNIQLO Sports Utility Wear
When I first placed my hand on UNIQLO’s latest (and potentially greatest) range of activewear I was floored by the softness and outstanding quality.
Not only are the new tights, T-shirts and crop tops thick but they’re incredibly moisture wicking so you can wear them all day long — whether doing vigorous activity or not — and feel protected.
The AIRism Ultra Stretch Cropped T-Shirt ($19.90) is a firm favourite for my Pilates classes because it actually doesn’t ride up as you workout.
Nothing from the full range will stress out your bank account, with even a hearty jacket only setting you back $59.90.
Other activewear favourites I enjoyed this month:
- Nimble Activewear Flare Pant ($129) and matching Scoop Bra ($89) in Cloud: I wore this set on my recent trip to Europe, on the flight itself. It’s like sitting in a pool of butter. No pulling or constricting on an almost 24-hour flight. It was so comfortable I wore it on the way home too.
4. Cloud Nine The Curling Wand The Starlight Collection, $269, The Iconic
I’ve never been one to perfect voluminous curls using a hair straightener so I need an actual barrel product to get the job done.
Cloud Nine’s The Curling Wand is a sleek and stylish tool that delivers on its promise of creating beautiful curls.
The 25mm ceramic barrel glides smoothly through my hair, while the variable temperature control allows for customised styling based on hair type.
The wand heats up quickly and maintains consistent heat, ensuring the results last longer than a day.
The mineral-infused barrel helps to protect hair from heat damage, leaving it shiny and healthy.
Other tech I’ve enjoyed this month:
- Samsung Galaxy Ring, $699: As the resident Android user in the office I put the brand new Galaxy Ring from Samsung to the test. It might be tiny but boy does it deliver on trackability. It tracked my steps as standard but also my sleep and my period. I prefer the ring size over a watch because it doesn’t get in the way so much. After years of coverting an Oura I’m glad there is another more cost effective option on the market.
5. Clarins Double Serum, $130-$240 depending on size, Myer
Clarins Double Serum is a luxurious anti-aging serum that combines two powerful formulas in one — and the ninth variation of this product has just hit our retailers in Australia.
It features a unique bi-phase system that blends plant extracts and essential oils to hydrate, plump and revitalise the skin.
The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft and supple without any greasy residue.
While some users of the product have reported noticeable improvements in fine lines and wrinkles, others found the results to be more subtle.
Other skincare favourites I’ve enjoyed this month:
- Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Blemish Serum, $125: The incredible NZ brand is relaunching its best-selling Blemish Serum with a 48 per cent increase in live probiotic cells per pump. The brand listened to its customers and changed the packaging as well. As a long-time acne sufferer I’m excited to see what another few weeks of this delicious serum will do.
6. Brita Glass Jug and Base, $119, In The Roundhouse
The Brita Glass Jug and Base is a stylish and functional water filtration system that offers a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to plastic jugs.
Its sleek glass design complements any kitchen decor, while the easy-to-use flip-top lid and ergonomic handle make filling and pouring water effortless.
The included MAXTRA PRO filter effectively reduces impurities, chlorine and limescale, enhancing the taste and quality of tap water.
I wasn’t a regular filtered water drinker until I procured this filtration device and now it sits happily on my kitchen bench ready for anyone to take advantage of.
7. Clax Cart, from $280
It’s not often that I’m really wowed by a new product but Clax Cart has hit the nail on the head for me this month.
The Clax Cart is a premium, collapsible shopping cart designed for ultimate convenience and versatility.
Made in Germany with a focus on quality and durability, this two-tiered cart folds flat for easy storage and pops open with a simple push-button mechanism.
It features ergonomic handles, a wheel brake, a collapsible crate and even a lift-up tray, making it ideal for everything from grocery shopping to gardening trips.
I’m an avid Aldi shopper but loathe having to remember my dollar coin each time I need to select a trolley, so this collapsible cart is the ultimate remedy.
While the price point is on the higher end at $280, the functionality and potential for long-term use might make it worthwhile for those seeking a feature-rich collapsible cart.
8. Rebel Spirit Soiree Dress, $299, Spell
It’s no secret that Spell is one of my favourite brands with a combination of sustainable (and ethical) fabrics used against a backdrop of dainty and bohemian prints.
But the designers at Spell have knocked it out of the park with its Rebel Spirit collection, particularly the Soiree Dress which features a low neckline, thin but adjustable straps and an ankle grazing length of daffodil-printed goodness.
I’ve been wearing this dress on long walks (it doesn’t drag along the floor) and to the supermarket with no sign of slowing down in sight so if you’re looking for a Christmas Day dress consider it sorted.
Sizing is generous given the waistband is elastic so consider sizing down from your regular.
9. Le Sac Garden Tool Belt, $79.95
Living in an apartment means I don’t have the luxury of enjoying an audacious (and spacious) garden but there are a number of planter pots I’m putting to good use for herbs and the like.
Le Sac, an Aussie-owned small business, caught my eye for its gorgeous and unique Garden Tool Belts, which feature a number of pockets for storing seeds and shears as you move around your green space.
The brand’s latest collection is decidedly French-inspired with imagery that will make you feel like you’re wading through the lavender bushes outside a chateau.
The belts are easy to re-size, click in place and can be machine washed when you’ve had a little bit too much fun with the dirt.