<![CDATA[ Latest from Marie Claire in Home ]]> https://www.marieclaire.com Sat, 04 Jan 2025 11:56:16 +0000 en <![CDATA[ Power Pick: This Projector Is The Small Apartment Solution I Was Looking For ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.

When my then-fiance and I moved into our new, very tiny apartment, we ran into a problem: Our bedroom didn’t have space for a new TV. Sure, we could cuddle up in our living room and then migrate to the bed after our movie or show ended, but what about the early morning Formula 1 races we watched religiously on Sundays? The idea of getting out of bed at 7 or 8 a.m. to see them sent shivers down my spine (I am not a morning person).

That’s when we had the idea to get a projector—a small one that we could prop up on our dresser, turning our massive white wall into our own little silver screen. We decided to try the XGIMI Halo+ Projector, and it’s been a real game-changer.

XGIMI's Halo+ wasn't the first device we bought. The $800 price tag scared us off, so we bought another, more affordable model from the brand. But when that device made watching anything in a non-nighttime setting impossible, we upgraded to the Halo+. It's been the most worthwhile thing we've purchased for our space.

There are so many reasons the Halo+ is worth the price tag. First of all, the image and sound quality are excellent (even for daytime viewing), which is surprising given how small the device is. Our apartment faces the street, and we get direct sunlight in the morning. The projection is not as good as it would be in a darker room (which is understandable), but it's near-perfect. Now, I no longer have to squint to see which driver is currently winning when we watch our favorite early-morning races. And the sound quality is so good that we haven't had to buy any additional speakers or sound bars.

Its small size is a major reason we love it so much. It blends in with the rest of our furniture and makes no noise while in use. I haven't taken it on vacation (yet!), but it's lightweight and compact enough to throw in a carry-on (it's about the size of a well-packed makeup bag).

The XGIMI Projector in my apartment.

The Halo+ blends right in with the rest of my bedroom setup. (Image credit: Julia Marzovilla)

Another great thing about it is that we were able to set it up in under five minutes. The keystone correction—aka, the feature that adjusts your projector's image to be rectangular and in-focus—happens in seconds, so we can start watching right away.

The Halo+ has Android TV 11, Google Play, and Chromecast built-in, so we can connect to the apps we use most—like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO, YouTube, and even my Nintendo Switch—without trouble. The only issue we've had is connecting to Netflix. Because AndroidTV powers it, you have to connect a separate device, like an Amazon Fire TV Stick, in order to use Netflix. But it's not a big deal—it takes less than a minute to set up. A.k.a, I could binge Nobody Wants This. as soon as it came out and then quickly switch over to start watching Shogun.

The XGIMI Projector

While not perfect, the projector showed a clearer image at well-lit times of the day. (Image credit: Julia Marzovilla )

The bottom line? The Halo+ makes me never want to leave my house. Why would I when I can turn an entire wall into a movie theater without an AMC A-List membership? Whether you're in the market for a TV or your apartment doesn't have room for one, I cannot recommend this projector enough.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/xgimi-halo-plus-projector-review/ TD3s5ayamKZtYzTwAo4ppj Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:07:18 +0000
<![CDATA[ Here's the Best Way to Improve Your Sleep Quality ]]> There is nothing worse than waking up feeling tired and off-balance from a night of tossing and turning. We all deserve peaceful and uninterrupted rest, and as we get older, our physical health and well-being largely depend on it. Though many factors contribute to a good night's sleep, it's worth focusing on the ones that you can control—starting with your bed.

Sleep Number's smart beds are a game-changer in the quest for better sleep. Unlike traditional mattresses, smart beds are engineered with advanced technology designed to adapt to your unique needs. If you've ever imagined a bed that not only adjusts to your preferred firmness but also monitors and responds to your body’s movements throughout the night, a Sleep Number bed might just be your dream come true.

Smart beds deliver personalized comfort, whether you’re a side sleeper who needs extra cushioning or a back sleeper who requires firm support. The Sleep Number app even includes innovative features that track your sleep patterns, providing insights into your sleep quality and suggesting adjustments to optimize your rest. This means fewer restless nights and more rejuvenated mornings.

If achieving the right temperature in bed is an ongoing issue for you, smart beds offer the best solution. Each bed includes a ceramic gel layer that creates a cooler and more breathable surface. If you want something a little more extensive, the Climate360 smart bed actively removes and adds heat throughout the night based on your preferences, creating the perfect climate for a good night's sleep.

Smart beds are also designed with couples in mind. Each side of the bed can be adjusted independently, allowing both partners to find their perfect level of comfort without compromise. This personalized approach not only enhances individual sleep quality but also helps maintain balance in shared sleeping spaces.

With Sleep Number’s biggest sale of the year underway, now is the perfect time to invest in a bed that promises a good night’s sleep and supports your overall health and well-being. Here are the best deals to shop now.

Smart Beds

Add-Ons

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/smart-beds-sleep-number/ ru7WLMiT4uji9ZPF4uB22b Wed, 28 Aug 2024 14:00:00 +0000
<![CDATA[ Every Pet Owner Needs This Holy-Grail Service ]]> Pet wellness is booming, but it isn't just a passing trend. Preventative, holistic care is just as important for pets as it is for people, but veterinary care costs often prevent our furry friends from getting the treatment they need. That's where Dutch comes in. As the leading pet telehealth service, they're on a mission to take the inconvenience and expense out of vet care and prescriptions, and offer a more accessible, cost-effective, and convenient solution.

Back in 2021, founder and CEO Joe Spector was eager to find a solution for his dog's anxiety. Inspired by the innovation and ease of telemedicine, he teamed up with Dr. Brian Evans to create Dutch. Together, they've transformed stressful, expensive vet care into something much more convenient and affordable—a full-service membership designed specifically for your pet's health. For just $11 a month, your membership includes unlimited video calls and messages with licensed vets available 24/7 to assist with everything from anxiety to infections, eliminating the need for costly vet visits. Members also save an average of 20 percent on prescriptions and other pet necessities.

But it doesn't stop there. Following your initial video vet visit, Dutch's team of vet specialists creates a holistic, personalized treatment plan for your pet that combines nutritional advice, lifestyle changes, training exercises, and medications delivered straight to your door. This service isn't just a holy grail for busy pet parents—it is a worthwhile investment in our animals' overall health and well-being, giving them longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Shop Pet Essentials

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/pet-telehealth-membership-dutch/ u8u9GzN3CENbeK6X37FP4R Fri, 26 Jul 2024 18:28:04 +0000
<![CDATA[ If You Want to Type Comfortably All Day Long, You Need This Keyboard ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.

As I approach my 30s, I’ve kept an eye out for the days when a new area of my body gets sore, a once-minor hangover becomes a bit too much to overcome, or I get the uncontrollable urge to finally add retinol to my beauty routine. Of all the possible aches, however, I never expected that the first vestige of my teens and 20s to go would be my flat Mac keyboard.

One December afternoon, as I finished up a normal workday of typing, I noticed that my knuckles were slightly tingling, followed by some soreness. It wasn’t an unfamiliar feeling—I had recently replaced my Mac mouse with a vertical one from Logitech after feeling a similar ache from constant scrolling—but as the ache came back over several days across most of my fingers, I began to fear it was the end of an era. Apple’s Magic Keyboard and its predecessors had gotten me from my senior year of high school to my current journalism career with minimal discomfort. But my hands were making it known that they needed something different if my livelihood was going to continue to involve typing away for hours on end.

So, after some research, which may have involved watching at least 30 reviews on YouTube, I came across the perfect mechanical keyboard to use with my Mac desktop: the NuPhy Air75.

The Air75 is a low-profile mechanical keyboard, which is best explained by its differences from the traditional Magic Keyboard that comes with every Mac. Mac’s keyboard uses an ultra-thin scissor mechanism to register each letter when a key is pressed; there’s only about a millimeter of key travel or the distance it takes for the key to reach the bottom of the board. I’m a pretty forceful typer, so it’s not surprising that jabbing away and constantly hitting the bottom of the board would make my fingers uncomfortable. Meanwhile, mechanical keyboards like the NuPhy use components called switches to register the keys. Instead of being stuck with one option, I can use whichever switch gives me the most comfortable typing experience.

According to Mayo Clinic, typists can help lessen stress on hands by typing softly, so I tested NuPhy’s switches and chose one that felt the easiest to type on while still having enough resistance to keep me from pressing down onto the very bottom of the board. I also love the Air75’s low-profile keycaps, a.k.a. the actual keys that go on top of the switches. They feel much more familiar to type on than the traditional, tall keycaps on most mechanical boards, so this board is my go-to when I want to hit my max words per minute. Now I instinctively press more lightly when I use the Air75, a good habit that would’ve taken me more painful months to achieve on the Magic Keyboard.

If switches and key travel weren't enough of a barrier to the world of mechanical keyboards, I also faced the issue of being a faithful Mac user entering a sphere dominated by Windows. The big reason I went with NuPhy over dozens of other keyboard brands is that the Air75 is actually made with a Mac user in mind. The "F" keys are programmed with all the same shortcuts you’d find on a Magic Keyboard, plus an added Screenshot key that I use at least twice a day. If you’re a Windows girlie, don't worry—there is a switch on the back that lets you change between Mac and Windows modes.

Desk with computer and nuPhy keyboard

The NuPhy keyboard makes my desk setup all the more comfortable. (Image credit: Quinci LeGardye)

It has been six months since the NuPhy Air75 arrived at my door, and I’ll never switch back to a Magic Keyboard. Typing has never been so comfortable, and I can write away for hours without the sensation of sore fingers pulling me out of my flow. I’ve even paired the NuPhy with my iPad to work outside now that summer’s arrived, in a lovely switch up from my remote desk setup.

I’ve picked up some other keyboards as I fully dive into the mechanical keyboard hobby, but I always end up coming back to the NuPhy when I need to hit my full productive potential. And it’ll be a mainstay on my desk for years to come.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/nuphy-keyboard-review/ TWvvfCDP7LSe5cm6YcC5ik Thu, 20 Jun 2024 17:51:59 +0000
<![CDATA[ How a High-Tech Refrigerator Got Me Excited About Cooking Again ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.

I've been excited about a refrigerator exactly twice. The first time, I was on a rustic vacation in the woods of Deep Creek, Maryland. We'd been advised not to bring perishables because the cabin had nowhere to house them—but when I arrived (with snacks, of course), I was ecstatic to find a large refrigerator standing in the tiny kitchen.

The second time, I was visiting my college friend Stephanie's newly built home. The six-bedroom house had all the trappings of a luxury mansion: a walk-in pantry, heated floors, statement cabinets, and a futuristic-looking appliance. I didn't immediately know what it was; it looked more like a magician's magic box than a cooling apparatus. “Is that...your fridge?” I asked as I walked towards it. I was intrigued by the flat panel design, which looked so chic.

“Of course it is, silly! Watch this!” Stephanie knocked on the front right panel twice, and the inside lit up immediately. I'd later learn that this was the Smart Mirror InstaView, a feature that LG refrigerators are known for. With one knock, you can view the contents of your fridge without opening it, saving energy and time.

This clearly wasn’t a run-of-the-mill appliance, and I was dying to learn more. Over the next couple of days, every encounter I had with the fridge was more exciting than the last. Stephanie told me about the ice makers in the freezer—one produces mini cubed ice, and the other creates LG's trademarked slow-melting, round Craft Ice. Both were efficient, but I treasured the perfectly cubed mini ice that came in handy when cooling oatmeal and soup for my kids. One evening, when other couples joined us for a gathering, Stephanie turned on Ice Plus. It kicked ice production into high gear by lowering freezer temperatures to the coldest setting for 24 hours. Color me impressed.

Then there was the smudge-resistant finish. My four-year-old daughter and seven-year-old son are constantly touching things. At home, our existing refrigerator was loaded with tiny fingerprints—but Stephanie's wasn't. After a weekend of fun, there wasn't a single smudge in sight.

These features were astonishing, especially for a Millennial like me who hadn’t upgraded their refrigerator in a decade. But the feature that made me a convert was discovered during a late-night trip to grab a midnight snack. As I entered the kitchen, the built-in sensors lit up the LED lights on the handle, so I didn’t have to fumble to find a light. It was as if it knew I was coming. It understood what I needed, and it delivered. I had officially entered refrigerator heaven. I had to get my own.

Over the next few months, I researched the LG refrigerator extensively, questioning how the giant tinted window would last with my unruly children “playing” with it. I had questions about how it organized food and crispers—and, perhaps most importantly, I wanted to know about the warranty. The customer service representative assured me that the fridge had everything I needed and more. If I didn't like it, I could return it, plus the warranty on the linear compressor (the main gas compressor that allows the refrigerator to cool) was six to 10 years.

inside view of Smart Mirror InstaView Counter-Depth MAX Refrigerator

Not only does the LG fridge elevate my kitchen, it doubles as a mirror. (Image credit: Deena Campbell )

So I took the plunge and bought it. Almost immediately, I started thinking more about cooking. I began looking for new foods and recipes to fill my fridge. (Who was I? The fridge had made me a new person!) I found even more features I loved, like the sleek, counter-depth design that blended seamlessly with my cabinets and counters. It seemed made for my home. Not to mention, the three-tier organization freezer was perfect for stacking ice cream, frozen meats, and even the ice packs the kids use for school lunch.

I don't know that I’ll be ever genuinely excited about a refrigerator again. It’s hard to imagine being more impressed by another kitchen appliance. Ironically, my other bestie is building a custom home this fall, and she plans to take a look at LG gadgets. In other words, my snacks and newfound homemade food will have another gorgeous place to call home.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/lg-smart-fridge-review/ qTdzsghnF5mXBaxDhRx5rh Tue, 30 Apr 2024 18:00:04 +0000
<![CDATA[ The Art-Meets-Tech Piece That Will Completely Transform Your Living Space ]]> Art has always been an inspiration to me. My mom was the art docent at my elementary school, and my brother is an artist, so I grew up with an affinity for the inspiring subject. My role as a fashion editor brings out my artistic side every day, and I'm extremely interested in interior design while I decorate my new home. So when I learned about LG and its mission to enrich people's understanding of art through its technology, I was instantly intrigued.

With its OLED TVs, LG is redefining what's possible in the art world, connecting artists to audiences through television. In collaboration with a handful of notable artists, LG is bringing artwork to its OLED screens, allowing audiences to discover the world of art in their homes with stunning color and clarity. I was lucky enough to experience the magic firsthand at Frieze Los Angeles over the weekend, where the LG OLED TV was on display in all its beautiful glory.

lg oled tv

(Image credit: LG)

LG's most recent partnership with leading street artist Shepard Fairey was spectacular. In this new installation, Fairey blended physical and digital mediums to re-create his 2017 exhibition, Damaged, using LG OLED TVs. His iconic graffiti style was captivating and moving—I could have stared at it all day. It's safe to say I'm excited for what's to come with LG's artist initiative, but in the meantime, I'll be telling everyone I know about its TVs, which make the perfect functional home décor pieces when displaying stunning art. Discover the LG world and how it can fit into your home below.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/lg-oled-tv/ jzC4MsNS82gxofzhAjj7wE Mon, 11 Mar 2024 21:11:27 +0000
<![CDATA[ 16 Top-Tier Items to Gift With This Holiday Season ]]> Call me ambitious, but this holiday season, I’m attempting to resist my procrastinating tendencies. I want to be able to enjoy my favorite time of the year without feeling the stress of securing last-minute presents for all my family and friends. That’s why QVCs Nonstop Holiday Party couldn’t have come at a better time. From November 4 to 5, QVC will be hosting an immersive live shopping experience that showcases the best products to gift your loved ones with this season. The event will not only highlight the QVC team’s helpful expertise for a consecutive 49 hours but also feature amazing sales and promotions that you definitely don’t want to miss. (Note: The below sale prices officially go live today, so be sure to come back and shop.) From cozy throw blankets to buzzy beauty products to a brand-new Apple Watch, here are 16 top-tier items that I can’t wait to shop from the event.

This content is sponsored by QVC.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/top-tier-holiday-gifts-qvc/ rqvCbubwTvDboHqJ8nWWwL Sat, 04 Nov 2023 16:01:29 +0000
<![CDATA[ Thuma's Cult-Favorite Bed Frame Is the Best Thing I Bought for My New Apartment ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


When my fiancé and I moved in together over the summer, we had some choices to make. Our beds were both on their last legs and the thought of disassembling one of them, moving it up four flights of stairs, and then re-building it seemed like a nightmare on top of the nightmare that already was moving in New York City over the summer. Researching for a new bed frame kept bringing me back to one option: Thuma's The Bed.

Thuma calls it the "perfect platform bed frame," and I would have to agree. We wanted something with a low profile that we would be able to have for the rest of our lives together (big ask, I know). It had to be sleek, well constructed, have a minimal profile that would match any decor color, and come in a neutral brown to match the rest of our bedroom furniture. Thuma's The Bed did just that.

Another reason why Thuma's bed frame was so appealing to us is because it requires no tools to build. After spending hours (and hours) struggling with building every other piece of furniture in my apartment over the years, that fact alone was enough to add it to my cart. The pieces all slot together and you have to tighten two screws by hand—and that's it.

You can shop it in sizes twin through California King in four colors: Walnut—our pick— which is a medium brown; Natural, a paler unfinished option; Espresso, a deeper black-brown; and Grey. You can also decide whether or not you want a headboard and, if you do want one, you can decide whether you want it to be fabric or wood to match the bed. We opted for a queen-sized option with an all-wood look. The site also has very clear measurements online, so I had no trouble figuring out which size would work best in our room. The entire bed and wooden headboard came out to just over $1,000. Getting the additional padded headboard costs a little more.

The shipping process was super simple—it came in just over a week in three boxes that weighed just under 10 pounds each. Getting each box up the multiple flights of stairs was the only real struggle I had when assembling the bed. However, this would not be an issue if you had an elevator or didn’t happen to live on the top floor of a walk-up-only building. 

Now onto the real test—if it was actually as easy to build as it claimed to be online. My verdict? Yes, this is super easy to build. In fact, my partner built the entire queen-sized bed frame in under an hour. Every piece was slotted together and there was only one section where he had to use two hand-tightened screws. All I had to do was put my mattress (a Casper, which I’ve previously reviewed for this column) on top, make the bed, and voila! We had a place to sleep.

Next up on our shopping list is one (or several) of the many accessories or "Upgrades," as the brand calls them, that Thuma sells to complement its best-selling frame. It is truly designed for small spaces. You can buy a Pillowboard or plain Headboard if you get bored of the one you picked, a Tray that slots onto the side of the bed like a very minimal side table, or a Sleeve that hangs down from the side to hold your laptop or book like a very sleek side table. However, Thuma also sells its own Side Table, a small collection of Nightstands, a Rug, a wide selection of Bedding and Mattresses, and a Dresser if you want to complete the look.

Keep scrolling to shop The Bed and all of the many accessories that go along with it. This is by far the best thing I've ever gotten for my new apartment, and I can tell that it's going to be in my life for a very, very long time.

Shop Thuma's The Bed & More

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/thuma-bed-frame-review/ dXhwRBzbXdDQHXhmYNid3o Wed, 01 Nov 2023 15:39:55 +0000
<![CDATA[ 36 Can’t-Miss Kitchen Deals to Shop During Amazon Prime Day ]]> When I need to mentally step away from the stress of work and life, there's nothing like flipping through a cookbook, putting on a favorite podcast, and getting to work in the kitchen. The house smells incredible all day, and the cozy feel of a warm meal kicks the blues away. But experimenting with new recipes is easier (and safer) when you have the right tools, which often means poring over pages of kitchen items, looking for a deal that suits both my needs and my budget.

Fellow chefs are in luck: Amazon Prime Day 2024 has officially kicked off and a ton of top-rated kitchen products from brands like Le Creuset and Hamilton Beach are on major sale. There's a top-rated coffee mug warmer at $20 off, plenty of discounted nonstick cookware, and an MC-reviewed Vitamix blender for over $100 off, just to name a few.

Best Cookware Deals on Amazon Prime

Best Appliance Deals on Amazon Prime

Best Electronic Deals on Amazon Prime

Best Miscellaneous Deals on Amazon Prime

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/prime-big-deal-days-kitchen-deals/ WWsXxiRRWi35ntu5Udqbu6 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 14:08:30 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: Sixpenny Sofa ]]> Knowing that people (myself included) spend an average of two hours a day lounging on the couch, and as someone who needed a new place to kick my feet up, I was on the hunt to find a great new sofa that checks all of the boxes: comfy, stylish, and functional. With so many options on the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming, so, like most, I took to the internet,  where I discovered one of social media's favorite furniture brands—Sixpenny.

Sixpenny, founded in 2017, started as a direct-to-consumer brand that designs, sources, and manufactures all of their pieces directly, making their stylish and internet-beloved slip-covered couches also pretty affordable compared to traditional high-end furniture brands. Working closely with their supply chain also means added control over the product's quality and a more sustainable ethos. With the success of the company's sofas and sectionals, they've since branched out to other big-ticket furniture pieces like dining tables, consoles, and, most recently, bed frames upholstered in the brand's signature slipcover material. I decided to give the buzzy start-up brand a go, and I'm sure glad I did.

I knew I wanted a sectional style to accommodate myself, my husband, and our two fur babes (a dog and a cat that love to lounge). After scrolling through Sixpenny's sectional options, I landed on the Devyn Chaise Sectional for its contemporary aesthetic and deep-seated cushions. I selected a feather-down filling to get that cozy sunk-in feeling. 

One of the huge draws of Sixpenny and why it's innately customizable are its slipcovers (especially intriguing for people with kiddos and pets). Available in several different materials—cotton canvas, cotton linen, thread-dyed cotton linen, washed cotton linen, washed cotton velvet, lightweight linen, and medium-weight linen—you can swap out slipcovers as you need, and with some mindfulness, you can even machine wash the slipcovers when some unforeseen event (like a very unfortunate red wine spill) makes a mess of them. While the brand says "there's no foolproof, works every time miracle approach to washing a slipcover," having the option to remove and launder it is a whole lot better than the alternative and my previous approach to a big-time spill, which consisted of a lot of panicking, googling, and willful blotting. When it comes to colors, there are 29 hues to choose from that range from quiet oat-colored neutrals to more saturated marigolds and burgundy. Before you order, Sixpenny sends over a swatch kit, making it a lot easier to visualize what each color looks like IRL.

Once I selected my four-piece Devyn Chaise Sectional in the oat flour colorway in a light linen fabric and a luxurious down filling, I received an email detailing what would come next, alongside a note from customer service checking to make sure the boxes, when delivered, would clear our elevator and doorways, knowing we are living in a New York City apartment notorious for narrow hallways and tricky corridors. After measuring and getting the clear that these boxes would, in fact, make it into our apartment (but something to be aware of if you live in a smaller space), the waiting game began, as our couch (all of them made-to-order) would take about ten to twelve weeks to arrive.

The delivery (10/10) was seamless from start to finish, so much so that I went to the office feeling confident that I could pass on the point person torch to my husband to oversee all the day-of logistics. After an initial call stating the delivery window, and with the help of the brand's "white glove service option," several men arrived, unwrapped the pieces, and locked the sectional into place via alligator-style clips. Because the sectionals are modular, you can set them up in different configurations.

If you're looking for a couch with the look and feel of a big fluffy cloud, then the Devyn sectional is for you. The comfort level is an A+ partly because of the design's deep seating, oversized cushions, and extra long leg room where the ottoman sits. All that said, you will need ample space for this style as it's Sixpenny's largest couch offering. Something like the Neva sectional— the brand's most popular couch—also looks great and might be a better contender for more compact spaces.

I can see why Sixpenny has made quite a name for itself. Ultra comfy, easy to maintain, and very stylish, we love our couch so much that we're giving the two-hour-a-day average a run for its money.

Shop Sixpenny

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/sixpenny-sectional-review/ F8WHwodfXoZoV5qNGRjoxS Fri, 21 Jul 2023 14:00:53 +0000
<![CDATA[ I Just Moved—These 21 Small Apartment Essentials Are Going in My Cart on Prime Day ]]> A fun fact about me is that I just moved in with my boyfriend and, while our budget certainly expanded when combining our two incomes, it by no means amounted to enough for the massive apartment of my dreams. So I’ve been scouring the internet for every single space-saving hack out there—and that search invariably led me to Amazon and their very good deals for Amazon Prime Day. Meet: The best small apartment essentials on Amazon, all of which are majorly discounted right now.

This list includes every single thing you need to make your small space feel like home: Chic, machine-washable rugs! Vacuums that take up as little space as humanly possible in your only closet! Smart (small) speakers that will make you feel like you’re living in the future! With lightning-fast shipping and can’t-be-beaten prices, Amazon’s annual Prime Day Sale—happening July 11 and 12—is the place to go to buy all of the name-brand items you’ve been secretly saving on Pinterest and Instagram ever since you moved in. 

Keep scrolling to see and shop all of the deals. I’ve broken them down by price so you can skip around to find pieces that fit within your budget. Prepare to fall in love with your space all over again—I guarantee it.

When Does Prime Day End?

  • Amazon Prime Days will end on Wednesday, July 12 at 11:59 PM PDT. 
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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/prime-day-small-apartment-essentials/ BJyoSWGoRd6yn4qxcJRb4 Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:58:54 +0000
<![CDATA[ I Love to Cook—This Amazon Prime Day, I'll Be Shopping These Kitchen Essentials ]]> Whether you've just moved into a new apartment or you're looking to upgrade your space, having a well-stocked kitchen filled with premium appliances is an essential factor in feeling like a true, functioning adult. Rather than opting for inexpensive kitchen items and cookware with short shelf lives, why not invest in a piece that will last you for years and make cooking a breeze? And this Amazon Prime Day, it's easier than ever, because some of the most popular, high-quality brands around are slashing their prices on highly coveted items.

Scroll on for some of the best, editor-approved kitchen items on sale for Prime Day this week. From A+ appliances to high-performance pans and even food gifts, you'll be able to outfit your kitchen with everything it needs this summer—and at a fraction of the cost.

Mr. Coffee Iced and Hot Coffee Maker $65 $44 | Amazon

No space? No problem. This ultra-thin coffee maker, which brews both hot and iced coffee, fits in even the tiniest of kitchens and even includes accessories like a reusable coffee filter and a signature tumbler.View Deal

Rubbermaid 60-Piece Food Storage Containers with Lids $39 $30 | Amazon

I bought this set of storage containers when I was moving apartments two years ago, and they’ve proven to be incredibly durable and useful for any and every food storage need, from whole dinners to small sides of dressing.View Deal

Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker $70 $56 | Amazon

Slowcookers are absolute game-changers in food preparation, allowing you to work, run errands, and essentially ignore your food while it’s cooking—without worrying about safety. And this option features an auto-warm setting and includes a cookbook to boot.View Deal

HYSapientia Air Fryer Convection Oven $190 $152 | Amazon

When I found out that my last apartment wouldn’t have an oven, I rushed to Amazon and bought this studio-friendly option. It fits on top of a countertop or mini fridge and has all the capabilities of an air fryer and an oven, from roasting chicken to baking a tray of cookies.View Deal

Coravin Timeless Three SL Wine Preservation System $179 $100 | Amazon

If you love wine, hate wasting it, and don’t have room for any more large appliances, consider this gadget from Coravin. It uses argon gas to safely preserve wine for weeks after opening, and it works much like a cork, so you can save wine, money, and counter space, too.View Deal

Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer $45 $32 | Amazon

I love bringing my own lunch to work, but I don’t like it served cold. Enter this portable food warmer, which heats food slowly and evenly so that your food is perfect by the time lunch hour rolls around.View Deal

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer for Coffee and Tea $20 $10 | Amazon

When working from home, I often find myself sipping cold tea or coffee because of how long it takes me to finish a cup. This mug warmer, which is on sale for a whopping 50 percent off, is the perfect addition to my routine, so that every sip can taste freshly brewed, all day long.View Deal

KitchenAid Casserole with Lid, 4 Quart, Brushed Stainless Steel $50 $36 | Amazon

A good casserole pot is always handy, especially if you’re meal prepping for the week or simply whipping up a meal for a family or group of friends. This option from KitchenAid is oven safe, with comfortable silicone handles and a shatterproof glass lid, so you can count on it for meals and meals to come.View Deal

Dreametech H12 Pro $500 $350 | Amazon

Not only does this vacuum work on all floor types as a dry or wet vac, but it’s particularly well suited for cleaning up kitchen messes because of its ability to neutralize odors. It also prevents mildew and mold, and is made to reach crumbs in even the tightest of corners. View Deal

ThermoPro Twin TempSpike 500FT Truly Wireless Meat Thermometer $200 $150 | Amazon

Never worry about whether your meat is fully cooked again. This meat thermometer makes checking your food easier than ever, with its two prongs, waterproof hardware, and the mobile app it pairs with.View Deal

Brabantia Bo Touch Top Trash Can $245 $196 | Amazon

This touch top trash can is equipped with ultra sensitive technology that makes the lid open wide for you at the slightest graze.View Deal

Caraway 2 Quart Whistling Tea Kettle $225 $175 | Amazon

My tea kettle might just be the most frequently used appliance in my kitchen, so I’m glad I opted for a cute one like this option from Caraway. It comes in eight colors, including thisView Deal

Vitamix Propel Series 750 Blender $630 $441| Amazon

This BPA-free, dishwasher-safe blender is a top notch option for anyone in need of a multi-purpose blender. It makes soups, purées, smoothies, and more, and even self-cleans. View Deal

Proctor Silex Single-Serve Coffee Maker $40 $28 | Amazon

This coffee maker has a 40 ounce reservoir, so it can make up to four 10 ounce cups of coffee without any need to refill the water. Plus, it comes with a reusable pod that you can load coffee grounds in for a more sustainable single-cup experience.View Deal

Hydros 64oz Water Filter Glass Pitcher $45 $32 | Amazon

This compact glass water pitcher quickly filters tap water and boasts a lightweight design that's easy to lift, store, and fill.View Deal

American Kitchen Cookware Premium Nonstick Frying Pan $225 $158| Amazon

This 12 inch nonstick frying pan is incredibly versatile: It's suitable for any stove type, is oven-safe up to 500 degrees, and promises to cook evenly every single time. View Deal

Vitamix 5200 Blender $550 $385| Amazon

This high-performance blender from Vitamix has a 64 ounce container suitable for making dinner for your entire family. It's also self-cleaning, boasts variable speed control, and comes in three colors. View Deal

KitchenAid Hard Anodized Nonstick Sauté Pan with Lid and Helper Handle $59 $48 | Amazon

Sauté pans are among the most useful pieces of cookware in any chef's repertoire, suitable for one-pot dishes, meats, pies, seafood, sauces, and more. This option is also oven-safe and promises to heat evenly.View Deal

MANNKITCHEN Pepper Cannon $199 $159 | Amazon

This professional-grade pepper cannon is designed to dispense pepper with fewer, easier cranks so that, in the brand's words, "you can pepper your steak in seven cranks instead of 70."View Deal

Proctor-Silex Buffet Server & Food Warmer $55 $35 | Amazon

If you love entertaining, consider this server and food warmer. It works even more effectively than those disposable aluminum pans, is sturdier, and since it's meant to last, it's more sustainable, too. View Deal

Boxxle Box Wine Dispenser $130 $91| Amazon

Love wine and hate wasting it? This chic wine dispenser holds up to three liters of wine at a time and keeps it fresh for up to six weeks after the bottle was initially opened. It also makes for easy pouring and serving, allowing you to drink and enjoy at your own pace.View Deal

American Kitchen Premium Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Nonstick Casserole Pan $190 $133 | Amazon

This handy oven-safe casserole pan is made with two layers of stainless steel and an aluminum core, ensuring both even heating and durability.View Deal

KLOVEO Champagne Stoppers $25 $18| Amazon

Opening a bottle of champagne is a lot of pressure (pun intended), since the drink flattens quickly. This easy-to-use stopper fits all standard bottle necks and promises to keep champagne fresh and cold for weeks to come. View Deal

Vinci 12 Cup Coffee Maker $150 $128 | Amazon

As much as I love my single-serve coffee maker, there's nothing quite like a full pot of perked coffee, especially when you're having guests over. This option makes up to 12 cups at a time, has a reusable filter, and even features a pause setting.View Deal

Tramontina Cookware Set Nonstick 11-Piece Charcoal Gray $111 $85 | Amazon

This is the perfect purchase for anyone who's moved into their own place for the first time, or who's looking to get into cooking. It comes with 11 pots and pans of varying sizes, including a colander, and every single one is nonstick.View Deal

AspenClean Unscented Dishwasher Pods $18 $14 | Amazon

If you're investing in new cookware and dishware, you should also invest in products that clean them. These pods are biodegradable, compostable, free of harsh chemicals, and are tough on grease, too. View Deal

Brabantia Bo Touch Top Trash Can $208 $138 | Amazon

This 16 gallon trash can keeps odors from infecting your kitchen, and has a handy pedal and removable compartment that makes it easy to use. It also comes with free trash bags. View Deal

Revolution R180S Touchscreen Toaster $345 $280 | Amazon

Behold, the item you never knew you needed: A touchscreen toaster. This high-powered gadget has six settings as well as a panini function and panini press accessory, making breakfast and lunch easier than it's ever been.View Deal

Vitamix Immersion Blender $190 $133| Amazon

For those who love to make soups, an immersion blender is a game-changer. It allows users to blend without ever taking the mixture out of the pot, and View Deal

Vinci Hands-Free Electric Citrus Juicer $100 $85 | Amazon

Fresh juice in the mornings? Count me in. And this hands-free option, compact option makes juicing easier than ever before.View Deal

American Kitchen Premium Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Nonstick Frying Pan Set $240 $168| Amazon

Without a doubt, the avid chef needs more than just one pan, and this set is quite the steal for anyone looking to get their cookware collection started. It includes an eight, ten, and twelve inch pan, each of which is nonstick and promises to last for ages. View Deal

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/amazon-prime-day-kitchen-deals/ RsA92TwZrbmzNfYBcUdcfJ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:00:20 +0000
<![CDATA[ This Weekend, Stock Up On Stationery With Papier's Site-Wide Sale ]]> I don't know about you, but I'm a fiend for aesthetic stationery, like notebooks and planners. Even when I'm stressed, it always makes me feel better to manage that stress with books and pens that make me happy. Thus, I'm always on the lookout for high-quality pens, highlighters, and books from design-oriented, beloved brands like Papier. SO, this Memorial Day Weekend, one of the first sales I'll be taking advantage of is their rare, site-wide 15 percent off sale on what they lovingly refer to as "desk treasures."

This sale slashes prices on just about any stationery item you can think of, from journals to writing implements to recipe books. It also includes their chic, thoughtful collaborations, like their recent partnership with the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The collaboration specifically takes inspiration from the art nouveau-era designs of Margaret Neilson Armstrong, an American illustrator that designed hundreds of iconic hardcover book during the beginning of the twentieth century.

Below, some of my favorite pieces on sale this weekend. Be sure to snatch them up quick before the sale ends on May 30.

Papier Grove Rollerball Pen $18 $15 | Papier

These pens are a writer's dream, complete with a smooth rollerball that glides across the page and a ribbed texture that makes for a comfortable grip. They come in two colors: this subdued blue and a soft peach.View Deal

Papier The Jag Notecard Set $31 $27 | Papier

When I finally invested in a personalized, luxe notecard set, I immediately felt more elevated and organized. These make everything from thank you notes to office correspondence look elegant, with a touch of edge thanks to the black and white jaguar crawling down the side. They come in a set of ten and can be altered to include your initials.View Deal

Papier Water Lilies Hardcover Notebook $30 $26 | Papier

This striking notebook is part of Papier's partnership with the Met, and is based on the designs of the illustrator Margaret Neilson Armstrong. Its water lilies also recall the famous paintings by Claude Monet.View Deal

editor's pick

Papier Evergreen Mid-Year Planner $32 $27 | Papier

Sometimes it takes until the middle of the year for you to get on your planning grind—and that's perfectly okay. This planner starts mid-year, covering July 2023 through July 2024, and includes monthly overviews, to do lists, planning pages, and more.View Deal

Papier Once Upon a Time Mid-Year Planner $27 $32 | Papier

Yet another mid-year planner for all your post-June ideas, this charming option's cover takes inspiration from the stuff of fairytales in a charming blue and white, porcelain-like pattern.View Deal

editor's pick

Papier Joy Notebook & Notecard Set $69 $59 | Papier

I have this notebook and notecard set, and I absolutely love it. The book's chic, minimalist design lends itself to being your next catch-all pad for to do lists, grocery lists, and journaling, while the notecard set is versatile enough for any and every stationary need.View Deal

Papier Wild Arrangement Hardcover Notebook $30 $26 | Papier

I don't know about you, but I find it way easier to develop a journaling habit when I have a chic, appealing notebook to write in. This piece certainly fits the bill, with its colorful, watercolor flowers and gracefully winding stems.View Deal

Papier Hanging Fruits Recipe Journal $35 $30 | Papier

When I started cooking, I found that some of my favorite meals didn't quite follow the recipe to the letter, leading me to jot down countless notes amending the original instructions (i.e., calling for extra garlic, or less salt, or a dash of lemon). This recipe book relieves the need for me to scour my notes app, looking for the right note, and keeps all of my favorite recipes in one place. View Deal

editor's pick

Papier Quintet Fineliners $18 $15 | Papier

My writing and journaling experiences are always improved when my writing utensils are fun and functional. This lightweight fineliners utilize water-based ink for a smooth, even finish, making them perfect for both art and jotting down notes.View Deal

Joy List Notepads $18 $15 | Papier

I love these notepads for list-making and staying organized in general. Like many of Papier's products, you can customize this set with your name or initials.View Deal

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/papier-memorial-day-sale/ bi8fHUv9fThEr3KW49Ryyc Sat, 27 May 2023 17:38:24 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: CASETiFY Phone Case ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too. 


I like to take care of my belongings. I polish my shoes, store my beauty products in cool, dry spaces, lovingly smooth out the creased pages of my used books, and read the instructions on my clothing tags so I don't ruin them in the wash. But when it comes to the care and keeping of possessions, I have one major Achilles heel: My phone. 

One would think that I'd be more mindful about this item—always the most expensive thing in my bag; something I had to take out a payment plan for, which rivaled the plan I'd had for my student loans. Like most young adults, I love my phone and don't know what I'd do without it, and yet I always manage to drop it, spill water on it, and otherwise abuse it as though I were trying for its demise. I swing my arms when I walk, and, more than once, my forearm has collided with passerby or with an inanimate object, sending my phone flying out of my hand. And, of course, it always lands flat on the concrete, screen-side down, with a recognizable thwack that leaves everybody within earshot wincing in judgment or sympathy (or both).

The last time I broke my phone was the worst. The image became distorted, with blurry white lines running from the top of the screen to the bottom, culminating in a thick green line that ran right down the middle. When I visited the Verizon store to buy a new one, the salesperson gawked at the damage, marveling, "I've never seen anything like this before." He called his coworker over to take a look, and the latter agreed, saying, "I didn't even know this could happen."

My mom, frustrated by my chaos, has always insisted that I buy a sturdy, waterproof, shock-proof case—one that would encase my phone in what seemed like half an inch of plastic, metal, and rubber that would ensure its survival in just about any situation. But every time I've opted for one of these cases, I've felt silly. These cases always seemed to nearly double the size of my phone, and they always made me look like I was preparing my phone for Armageddon. They were, in short, not remotely chic. Meanwhile, the cases I did like—always thinner, more design-focused, and less industrial—never did much to protect my phone from damage of any sort, and fell apart within months.

Then, I discovered CASETiFY. The brand hinges itself on self-expression, with cases incorporating just about any and every pattern and color you can think of—along with countless that you'd never expect. They also partner with buzzy artists like Anne Marie Coolick and Marta Olga Klara and classic ones like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as the artists behind popular online design accounts like Constant Bagel Therapy and Sleepy Daze. And that's not all—CASETiFY also boasts a litany of high-profile partnerships with iconic brands like Disney, The Office, the NBA, and Nickelodeon.

My personal favorites, though, are the partnerships with museums like the Met, the National Museum of Korea, and the Louvre. I absolutely love art and spend much of my free time drawing, painting, and seeking inspiration from other artists, and having my phone case represent this interest sparks joy for me throughout the day. I love glancing down during a work meeting, when I'm on the train, or when I'm rushing around town, and seeing a representation of the Vénus de Milo or of Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres' Grande Odalisque on the back of my phone. The sight alone inspires me, reminds me of who I am and what I love, and injects beauty into the everyday. It's also a brilliant conversation starter.

Plus, CASETiFY's phone cases solve my greatest technological need: They protect my phone from damage. Although the cases themselves are sleek and thin, they're made from shock-resistant material that protects your phone from steep drops (including 13 feet, 21 feet, and more). Multiple models are also encased in antimicrobial coating (your phone's a germy place!). It's no wonder the brand's fans include a long list of celebrities, from Kylie Jenner to Gigi Hadid to Joe Jonas.

To top it all off? CASETiFY is committed to sustainability, constructing many of its cases from recycled material, including recycled phone cases they collect and repurpose through their RECASETiFY program.

I never guessed that I would become as passionate about a simple phone case as I am about my CASETiFY cases (yes, cases—plural). But these chic pieces boost my serotonin levels with a single look and provide enough protection to keep my phone safe. Form, thank you for finally meeting function. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/castify-phone-case-review/ rqBbEw7jNAKqThYNqS2f5m Fri, 26 May 2023 15:34:06 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 62 Best Gifts for Women on Amazon, According to Reviews ]]> Raise your hand if you take gift-giving a tad too seriously. Same. Whenever the occasion comes up, whether it be for a friend's birthday or the holidays, I'll spend countless hours looking for a meaningful gift. Over the years, I've learned that there are so many amazing gifts for the women in my life on Amazon.

I'm sure you don't need me to tell you that the site has just about everything you could wish for. From fall-ready sweaters and workout clothes to wardrobe staples like white T-shirts and leggings, there's an enormous number of gifts for women on Amazon to sift through, but that's where I, an expert shopper, come in. I did all the leg work for you: I dug through hundreds (if not thousands) of reviews to bring you this guide.

Ahead, you'll find the best gifts in the fashion, beauty, home, entertainment, and tech spaces arranged by category for easy viewing. I also included glowing customer reviews from real-life shoppers who have tested the products themselves to help with your buying decisions. Whoever you're shopping for (even if it's for your boss or Gen-Z cousin), and no matter your budget, check Amazon, your one-stop shop for finding the perfect present for everyone on your gift-giving checklist.

Best Amazon Gifts for Women at a Glance

Marie Claire's Favorite Gifts on Amazon

Best Fashion Gifts on Amazon

Best Beauty Gifts on Amazon

Best Home Gifts on Amazon

Best Entertainment Gifts on Amazon

Best Tech Gifts on Amazon

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/best-amazon-gifts-for-women/ zi46p67Co5axtR34UZzcJj Tue, 14 Mar 2023 18:16:56 +0000
<![CDATA[ Nordstrom's Winter Sale: The Best Home and Kitchen Items ]]> It's that time of year again: Nordstrom's winter sale is upon us, which means that hundreds of products across fashion, beauty, and home have had their prices slashed. Personally, I love using he retailer'st winter sale to upgrade my space, especially considering how much time I spend indoors during the cold months. From vases to candles to kitchen items, you can pick up just about anything from Nordstrom right now at a fraction of the cost, so elevating your surroundings doesn't need to feel complicated or break the bank.

Below, some of my favorite picks from the sale—the items in my shopping cart that are to make entertaining easier and sitting at home more chic. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/nordstrom-winter-sale-home-kitchen/ JYJbUwannKhwmrtfSMYpnN Mon, 13 Feb 2023 18:53:13 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: NOUHAUS Classic Massage Chair ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


Like many people who work primarily from a computer, I'm often hit with a surge of determination that this, finally, will be the day I develop better posture. I aspire to one day develop the confident, gazelle-like look of a woman with a straight spine and a raised chin, shoulders thrown back so that I no longer look like the Hunchback of Notre Dame in my photos.

But the moment I become engrossed in just about any activity (writing, reading, watching TV, chatting) my shoulders slump forward again. This habit, coupled with the fact that I'm a stomach sleeper and therefore spend nights with my head turned all the way to the side, mean that I often struggle with neck and back pain.

This pain yields a few results: I can often be found cracking and rolling my tense neck, my browser history is filled with searches like "exercises for neck pain," and, of course, I'm always in the mood for a massage. 

But massages, while luxurious, are expensive, and in an economy that has me pinching pennies at the grocery store, I'm less inclined than usual to book myself an appointment at my favorite spa. Plus, when my bones are particularly sore, I ache for immediate relief, so making an appointment and waiting until the staff can squeeze me in feels far less than ideal. 

Enter NOUHAUS. While massage chairs have a reputation for looking bulky and decidedly unrefined, the brand's Classic Massage Chair boasts a minimalist, almost egg-like design that makes it easy to transport and even easier to fit into a living space. The last point was particularly important to me, a studio apartment-dweller for whom space is at a premium.

I also loved the ability to customize the chair, which comes in six colorways. Personally, I opted for the caramel color, which matches beautifully with my wooden furniture and the warm accents that otherwise characterize my space.

In terms of the massage chair's technology, the world is truly the user's oyster. The chair's handy remote control includes full-body, kneading, percussive, spot-specific, mixed, and thermo-massage options. Thus, I'm able to target specific parts of my body, align myself from the base of my neck down to my glutes, or simply unwind after a long day. I can also adjust the intensity level of my massage, so I can adjust for both my comfort and mood level. After all, an intense shiatsu massage isn't necessarily my move of choice when I'm trying to type on my laptop or read a book. 

NOUHAUS massage chair with matching ottoman in an apartment beside a guitar, table, and shelf

My NOUHAUS Massage Chair is one of the first things I see when I walk into my apartment, and it's certainly a warm welcome. (Image credit: Gabrielle Ulubay)

Another feature of this chair that I absolutely adore is its Bluetooth functionality. The chair's wing-back features subtle, built-in speakers on both sides so that I can listen to music or to the audio of my favorite show or movie, with surround-sound-like results.

Since I've started using my massage chair as a regular indulgence, I've been feeling calmer and significantly less sore. Gone are the days that I'm constantly in pain or frantically looking up ways to relieve neck aches ASAP. The chair is also supremely comfortable when its massage settings aren't in use, and is perfect for reading, typing, or watching TV.

At the end of a long day or when I'm in a low mood, my chair, like my favorite music, can instantly lift my spirits. I've never been a homebody, but this single piece of furniture has made quiet nights in considerably more pleasurable, comfortable, and luxurious.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/power-pick-nouhaus-massage-chair/ j59xg72voeCvN536VxvThg Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:21:46 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 25 Best 2024 Planners and Agendas, Reviewed by Experts and Editors ]]> There's no better feeling than crossing off items on a to-do list. Even with almost everything going virtual, there's still great satisfaction in a good old-fashioned pen-and-paper combination in your routine. But with an overwhelming number of planners and agendas available to shop, it can be challenging to choose just one. Plus, considering you'll be stuck with yours until the end of the year (or school year), purchasing the best 2025 planner can feel like a lot of pressure. So, I consulted Marie Claire editors and other planner-using professionals about the ones they swear by.

I spoke to psychologist Dr. Scott Lyons and Kathleen Cameron, a manifestation coach, about how scheduling your day the old-fashioned way can make a tremendous difference. Dr. Lyons points out that there's actually a psychological reason for the satisfaction you get from writing down your tasks. "There is some interesting research about mobilizing where even just writing things down can help reduce stress because we’re motoring some of that energy and anxiety into action," he says. "Some things you just can't type out." Enter the perfect planner.

Cameron adds that writing tasks down can keep you focused on everything you need to accomplish in a day, keeping you organized and pushing you toward your goals. "It's [about] waking up every day and saying, 'What are the most important things that I need to get done, and how quickly am I going to get those things done?'"

So, whether you're looking to get more organized, trying to optimize your routine, or simply desperate not to forget any of the one thousand essential tasks you need to tackle, there's a 2025 planner, agenda, or cute notebook on this list that is right for you.

The Best Planners and Agendas at a Glance

Marie Claire's Top Planners and Agendas

Best Dated Planners and Agendas

Best Undated Planners and Agendas

What to Look For in a Planner

  • Space For Your Personal Goals: The perfect planner should get you into the right mindset to start a positive, productive day. Finding a planner that has room for the things that matter you (like a dedicated area for manifesation goals, mantras, or note pads at the start of each month), is key.
  • Length of Use: Some agendas on this list are designed for limited spaces of time (e.g., six weeks or three months at a time); others are undated so that users can focus on accomplishing specific short-term goals. Other goal-oriented planners include inspirational quotes, tips on staying focused, and other tools meant to guide you along your journey. Meanwhile, more traditional, dated planners and agendas simply lay out the entire calendar year or school year.
  • Size and Materials: Consider size and durability when buying a planner. If you carry around a big bag and need as much space as possible in your planner (for note-taking, mind-mapping, etc.), then a large planner may be best for you. On the other hand, if you need your planner to live and plan on taking it just about everywhere you go, go for a small planner. And if, like me, you tend to be rough on your items, look for a sturdy, hardcover planner so that you don't accidentally rip it to shreds within the first few weeks of use.

Meet the Experts

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g37595498/best-planners-agendas-2022/ 5dnC3q6ptPo6YebwiK8TfR Tue, 10 Jan 2023 19:54:26 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 2022 Power Pick Awards ]]> Introducing Marie Claire's very first Power Pick Awards: A list of the best editor-approved products that powered our lives in 2022. 


Whether it's a powerful kitchen appliance, high-quality set of headphones, or life-changing product for new moms, we all have a product or two that we simply cannot get through the day without. As 2022 draws to a close, the Marie Claire editors each share the products that powered our year, making every day easier, more efficient, or simply more joyful. 

Deals on Marie Claire's Power Pick Awards Winners

Dyson V8 Vacuum, $450 $350 at Dyson 

This powerful cordless vacuum from Dyson is "the vacuum to end all vacuums" according to Editor-in-Chief Sally Holmes—and reviewers agree. One of the 700+ five-star reviewers says that it's lightweight and "reaches everywhere with ease." Shop it now for $100 off. View Deal

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/2022-power-pick-awards/ WwrPou3Bv7Zfm9zMMxZtGS Tue, 20 Dec 2022 20:32:28 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: Smythson's Soho Agenda ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


I like to masquerade as an organized person. You know: ironed shirt, brushed hair, insurance card tucked away somewhere safe—it all contributes to the impression that I am not, for all intents and purposes, an agent of chaos in my own life. Because, well, I am. I regularly get lost on my way home from work. I lose anything and everything that isn't attached to my person. Without my beloved Smythson planner—where I remind myself, diligently, to iron my shirts, to put my insurance card in a safe place, even to make sure my hair isn't a birds' nest for meetings—I would be lost.

Three years ago, my mom—who, too, is on a forever mission to make sure I can get from A to B without issue—gifted me a Smythson planner. I'd tried planners and agendas before, from Google Calendars to to-do lists as long as my arm, but nothing clicked (which is to say, I still wasn't sure where my insurance card was). But the Smythson Soho Agenda—it hit different. Maybe it was the gold-edged paper, or the soft blue pages that were oh-so-satisfying to write on. Maybe it was the slip pocket, or the Soho's size: small enough to take everywhere, big enough to write everything into. Maybe it was its royal warrant. Whatever it was, I was hooked.

Here's the thing about the right planner: Used correctly, it becomes an extension of yourself. I take mine everywhere and write down everything in it: tasks, appointments, reminders big and small. When I leave it behind and someone tells me something I'd like to remember, I email notes to myself to write in it later. I've been known to flee meetings so I can grab my Soho; I've also been known to completely forget things—dinners! drinks! entire human beings!—if I don't check it constantly.

I get it, spending $300 on a planner feels excessive. After all, you can pick one up on Amazon for $10. But hear me out: Like all worthy investments, this is one that makes your life better. My brain feels less cluttered when I have my Smythson handy; I sleep better knowing that I have everything I need to remember written down. Yes, you can do that with any planner, but when you want to take a planner everywhere with you—when you feel a dim sense of peace every time you look at its gilded pages and pebbled leather, or scratch a line from your to-do list—it changes things. I've been working on a few big things this year—writing my first novel, Everyone Who Can Forgive Me Is Dead; planning my first (and let's hope, last) wedding; gearing up for an international move—and while I'd like to be able to say it's the love of my friends and family that has gotten me through, that's only partly true. Mostly, it's my Smythson.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/symthson-soho-agenda-review/ mYMXo6FKnMkKEfVxY2uDyT Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:52:55 +0000
<![CDATA[ Wayfair Is Currently Taking Up To 70 Percent Off Hundreds of Products ]]> Adulting is notoriously difficult, but there's one aspect of it that I love: Having the freedom to decorate and furnish my own space however I want. This means scouring thrift stores, antique shops, and the vast online world for the best furniture and decor. Among my favorite sources for all things home and kitchen is Wayfair, which carries thousands of products from fan-favorite brands like AllModern, Mistana, Le Creuset, KitchenAid, and more. 

Even better? For Cyber Week, Wayfair will be slashing prices by up to 70 percent across their entire site, meaning you can save huge on wedding gifts, housewarming presents, and essentials for yourself. Below, I've rounded up some of my favorite picks from the sale, but trust me—my wish list goes on and on. 

Sand & Stable Seylow 81.5'' Faux Leather Convertible Sofa $910 $590 | Wayfair

I love this faux leather sofa, whose camel color matches any living room seamlessly. It also comes in white, and reviewers say it's comfortable and looks just like the picture.View Deal

Birch Lane Anatonia Upholstered Wingback Chair $779 $330 | Wayfair

This stylish wingback chair is, by reviewer' testaments, comfortable and doesn't take up too much room. Several even recommend buying a pair.View Deal

Andover Mills Miraloma Power Loom Green/Red/Orange Indoor/Outdoor Rug $779 $330 | Wayfair

This stylish rug comes in nine different, unique colorways, but I personally love this colorful one. It can be positioned indoors or outdoors, and works in just about any room!View Deal

Andover Mills Pollak Glass Semi Flush Mount $139 $110 | Wayfair

Reviewers are consistently impressed with the high quality and easy installation of this mounted light. 

Mercury Row Biondo 4 - Person Dining Set $620 $500 | Wayfair

Verified customers say that this dining set is more than just beautiful—also also sturdy and surprisingly easy to assemble. View Deal

KitchenAid 6-Piece Pasta Maker Attachment Set for Stand Mixer $220 $170 | Wayfair

Who doesn't love homemade pasta? Reviewers love this gadget from KitchenAid, saying it makes high-quality, tasty pasta without taking too much time.View Deal

AllModern Grady Solid Wood Nightstand $246 $185 | Wayfair

I love this nightstand. It's a gorgeous color and its design is reminiscent of the colonial period. Reviewers love it, too, and say it's even more beautiful in person. View Deal

Wayfair Sleep 14" Foldable Steel Bed Frame $144 $108 | Wayfair

By all accounts, this bed frame is compact, easy to construct, and sturdy enough to last for years to come.View Deal

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/wayfair-cyber-week-sale/ 6xUPuiTWsKHJXybJUAyLbD Thu, 01 Dec 2022 20:29:43 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 60 Best Virtual Gifts You Can Buy Online ]]> When the holiday season rolls around, life gets exceptionally busy. Work events, parties, and errands seem to take over our lives right before the holidays, so finding time to get together with your friends and family may not be the easiest thing. In a perfect world, we'd get to be with the people we love most when it comes time to exchange gifts. But sometimes we can't be there IRL, no matter how much we want to be. But thankfully we live in a world where you can do just about anything online, even gift-giving. 

If you can’t be there to give a gift in person, look no further than these virtual gifts you can order from the comfort of your own home. Online gifts that are sure to make a splash include messages from their favorite celebrities, bottles of wine, the best warm socks, or subscriptions and memberships so they can do more of what they love (on you, of course). Whether it's a gift for your boss or a beauty advent calendar for your make-up-loving bestie, there’s something for everyone to check off your list. When you want to spoil the person who means the world to you, consider one of our favorite digital gifts, below.

Digital Food and Drink Gifts

A Goldbelly Gift Card

Three young people have ordered a food delivery. It has arrived in flat cardboard boxes. The friends sit at a dining table, and open the box to reveal a delicious pizza with various toppings. The vibe is relaxed, and fun.

(Image credit: Getty Images )

Goldbelly lets you (or your friends) order from restaurants from all over the country. Shipping is fast and easy, and the food arrives to you in perfectly-frozen packages that you can eat in no time. While there are a few gift-able packages to choose from, I recommend gifting a gift card so they can pick their preferred restaurant.

SHOP IT

A Spice Membership

A woman grinding pepper over food

(Image credit: Cavan Images)

Home chefs, listen up! Raw Spice Bar is here to make your friend's food taste amazing. They offer three, six, and 12-month subscription plans and send an array of handcrafted spice blends right to their front door.

SHOP IT

Cookies from Levain Bakery 

woman in glasses eating a cookie

(Image credit: Getty Images)

There are about a million and one different options when it comes to gifting food and drinks, but you can't go wrong with cookies from Levain. The signature NYC bakery serves up delicious, gooey cookies that will be a hit for anyone on your list. Choose to gift either a four, eight, or 12-pack that includes favorite flavors like Chocolate Chip Walnut and Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip.

SHOP IT

A Luxury Wine Subscription

Decanter wine club

(Image credit: Decanter)

A professional-grade wine subscription that will impress even the fussiest wine drinkers, this quarterly wine subscription from Decanter is well worth the investment. Featuring top-scoring wines from a team of expert judges, this subscription promises an exciting variety including bottles you won’t easily find elsewhere. Basically, the perfect gift for someone who loves to host. Subscribe now, and you'll get $50 off your first order and a set of luxury wine glasses.

SHOP IT

A Meal Delivery Service Subscription

A woman cooking in a kitchen

(Image credit: Westend61/Getty Images)

Not everyone has mad cooking skills, no matter how much they watch the Food Network. (Guilty!) Meal delivery services like HelloFresh can change that, though. Gift three to five mouth-watering recipes each week to your friend's door, all the ingredients and instructions included. It's that easy.

SHOP IT

 A Craft Beer Subscription

A woman holding up a glass of beer

(Image credit: Eugenio Marongiu/Getty Images)

This is perfect for your friend who lives for unique beer. Each box from the Craft Beer Club highlights two beers two different breweries from two different regions in the United States. Your friends can learn about where and how the beer is made, the different notes and each, and fun facts about the breweries.

SHOP IT

A Coffee Subscription Service

A woman drinking coffee

(Image credit: Eva Katalin Kondoros/Getty Images)

If you have someone on your list who really loves trying out new types of coffee, why not sign them up for a subscription service? Humblemaker Coffee has tons of options, from cold brew to regular beans.

SHOP IT

A Virtual Cooking Class

A woman chopping vegetables at a kitchen counter

(Image credit: Morsa Images/Getty Images)

Williams-Sonoma offers tons of different classes that teach everything from cocktails to the perfect pie crust. Gift them one of their classes to jumpstart their at-home cooking career.

SHOP IT

An Incredible Cocktail

woman mixing cocktail

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If your friend is the type who would rather mix up their own drink than head to the bar, a Shaker & Spoon box is the gift for them. Each subscription box has three recipes and enough ingredients to make up to 12 drinks (liquor not included). 

SHOP IT

A Virtual Wine Tasting

A woman enjoying a glass of wine

(Image credit: JGI/Jamie Grill)

If your friend is a wannabe sommelier, they need to take an at-home wine-tasting class to improve their skills. Simply choose a winery that fits your budget and personal wine preferences and Priority Wine Pass will handle the rest. It hosts one-on-one group tastings and even offers food and chocolate paring options!

SHOP IT

Digital Fitness and Wellness Gifts

A Reformer Pilates Membership

New York Pilates

(Image credit: New York Pilates)

If the person you're shopping for is based in New York, give the gift of a New York PIlates class or membership. The virtual gift cards get sent right to their inboxes.

SHOP IT

Personal Training Sessions

Woman high fiving man

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Whether your loved one is a fitness newbie or a gym fanatic, everyone can benefit from a personal trainer. FYT offers in-person or virtual training sessions that are completely personalized. You can choose to gift four, 12, or 24 personal training sessions. 

SHOP IT

A Peleton Digital Membership

A woman working out at home

(Image credit: Carol Yepes)

Why would your special person work out at the gym when you can gift them a Peloton membership? And no, they don't need to have a bike in order to participate! Peloton actually has tons of classes, from outdoor running to yoga.

SHOP IT

A Virtual Gym Membership

A woman working out at home

(Image credit: Patrik Giardino/Getty Images)

One thing that's great about the 21st century is that you don't have to leave your house to get a good workout in. There are tons of apps that will make sure your friend breaks a sweat and not the bank. Choose from our handy-dandy list of the best fitness and workout apps.

A Pilates Class Subscription

A woman sits on an exercise mat with her mobile phone

(Image credit: FreshSplash/Getty Images)

You might not be able to gift them an at-home reformer, but that doesn't mean they can't get their stretch on at home. The Pilates Class offers yearly and monthly subscription options that includes access to weekly classes at any skill level.

SHOP IT

Digital Beauty Gifts

The Perfect Shade of Lipstick 

Woman applying lipstick

(Image credit: Getty Images)

There's nothing worse than buying lipstick only to come home and realize its shade is completely off. Instead, ensure your beauty-loving friend has the perfect shade with a lipstick-building experience at Lip Lab. There, your friend can create her own lipstick (or balm!) with the help of on-site Color Experts who help in finding the most complementary shade. 

SHOP IT

A Beauty Subscription Box

A woman spraying perfume on her wrist

(Image credit: JGI/Jamie Grill/Getty Images)

The world of beauty is massive, and finding "the one" can be a series of trial and error. Ease that pain by gifting your loved one a beauty subscription box for one month, three months, or more. I love Skylar's Scent Club, which delivers a rollie fragrance that you choose yourself. Unsure which scent to gift first? They even have a scent quiz you can take, so the right kind of smell gets delivered to their door.

SHOP IT

The Gift of Glam

A woman having makeup applied by someone else

(Image credit: valentinrussanov/Getty Images)

Glamsquad is here to make all of their beauty dreams come true. Buy them a package deal where they can get several blowouts and makeup applications over the course of a few months, or gift them a one-time gift card if they've got a big event coming up.

SHOP IT

A Workout—for Their Face

A woman receiving a facial massage

(Image credit: Hispanolistic/Getty Images)

FACEGYM is the workout designed exclusively for, well, your face. They have brick and mortar locations in New York City, London and Los Angeles, but also offer personalized online classes. Each workout helps remove tension in the face and leave you looking sculpted and glowing. They sell at-home massage kits on their site, too, so you can get your face in shape in between classes.

SHOP IT

An At-Home Manicure Kit

A woman sits on her bed in front of her laptop wearing a face mask while painting her nails

(Image credit: MonicaNinker/Getty Images)

Olive & June makes these seasonal manicure to gift your friend who's seriously missing the salon right now. The Winter Box includes everything you would need to get your nails looking perfect: eight shades of polish, remover, cuticle serum, a few different tools, and a glossy top coat.

SHOP IT

A Personalized Facial 

Portrait of a beautiful woman getting a facemask at the spa and taking care of her skin -

(Image credit: Getty Images)

There's nothing like the gift of self-care, and a gift card from Heyday goes a long way. At one of Heyday's locations, your bestie will get a one-on-one evaluation from an esthetician to come up with a handcrafted facial to target their skin's needs. After their personalized facial, your friend will leave with glowing skin and a new grasp on maintaining their at-home routine. 

SHOP IT

Digital Gifts for the Culture Fan

A Video Game Gift Card

Optimistic woman sitting on living room sofa holding video game controller. Relaxed woman spending her free time at home, playing online with friends.

(Image credit: Getty Images )

Video games aren't just for kids—give the gift of their favorite Nintendo game by buying a virtual, code-only gift card on Amazon. Now they get the game they've been wanting without having to leave the couch.

SHOP IT

A Night of Live Entertainment

Phone held up during a concert

(Image credit: Getty )

There's nothing like a concert or show to turn an average weekend into a great one. But, as all entertainment lovers know, tickets to shows do not come cheap, which is why a gift card to StubHub is the perfect gift for your concert-loving bestie. You can buy tickets on StubHub to just about every live event across the country including concerts, plays, comedy shows, and sporting events. 

SHOP IT

Tickets to the Movie Theater

Woman laughing at movie theater with bowl of popcorn

(Image credit: Getty )

Some people (including myself) strongly believe that movies are meant to be enjoyed at the theater with a bucket of buttery popcorn and a large soda. These are the kind of people that deserve AMC's A-List Pass. This pass lets you see up to three movies a week at any AMC theater, making it the perfect gift for movie lovers. 

SHOP IT

Book of the Month

A woman lying on a bed reading a book

(Image credit: Stockbyte/Getty Images)

If you speed through our #ReadWithMC book club picks, then you should check out Book of the Month. At under $10 a month, the service picks out five reads each month; you choose which one you want to read. Choose to gift a three-month membership, a six-month membership, or a year. They'll need to make some room on their bookshelf.

SHOP IT

An Art Subscription

A couple hanging a picture on the wall of their home

(Image credit: JGI/Tom Grill)

If your friend is a fan of constantly re-doing their home decor, give them the gift of doing it with ease. An ArtCrate subscription allows them to work with an interior designer to find their new favorite piece of art.

SHOP IT

A Cameo From Their Favorite Celebrity

A woman looks at her phone while laying on a bed

(Image credit: Carlina Teteris/Getty Images)

Have a friend who raves over a certain celebrity? A Cameo is the ultimate virtual gift. Stars ranging from The Bachelor contestants to Netflix stars will create a 60-second personalized message for your friend. Depending on who you choose, it can get expensive, but seeing your friend's reaction is priceless.

SHOP IT

A Year's Worth of Spotify Premium 

women listening to over the ear headphones

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Why not gift something that your friend is already paying monthly for? Save them that monthly bill and gift Spotify Premium for an entire year. Unlimited skips and streaming make for the perfect gift for just about everyone. 

SHOP IT 

Vinyl Subscription Service

A woman sitting on the floor listening to records

(Image credit: Westend61/Getty Images)

VINYL POST Record Club is possibly the cutest thing ever. Every month they'll mail a 5" x 7" postcard that doubles as a record featuring one song of an up-and-coming artist and a sweet little message from the band to your friend's door. Watch your loved one's record collection grow in no time.

SHOP IT

A Rosetta Stone Subscription

A woman wearing headphones looking at her phone screen

(Image credit: JGI/Jamie Grill/Getty Images)

Remember at the start of quarantine, when you and your friends swore, you would better yourself by learning a new language? If you want to stick to that promise, language-learning favorite Rosetta Stone is now offering lifetime membership for their service for $200. A deal this good won't last forever, but your knowledge of a new language will. *wink wink*

SHOP IT

A Streaming Service Membership

A woman reaching her arm out holding a TV remote

(Image credit: Hiraman/Getty Images)

Give the gift of a membership to HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, or Netflix, and never hear from your loved one again! Ha, I kid. They'll call to say thank you and ask what you recommend for them to binge-watch.

SHOP IT

Audible Membership

A woman wearing headphones smiles as she looks at her phone screen

(Image credit: David Lees/Getty Images)

If you have one of those friends who says they don't have time to sit down and read, may I suggest an Audible membership? Featuring thousands of your favorite titles, never have a boring commute (is it weird to say I miss it?) again. The sleep timer feature on their app has been life-changing for me.

SHOP IT

A Museum Membership

A woman stands in an art gallery admiring a piece of art on the wall

(Image credit: Mint Images RF/Getty Images)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, home of the Met Gala, offers membership gifts on their website. You can grant your artsiest friends access to opening night exhibitions, extra viewing hours, or early access to every new exhibition. Not in New York? Select your favorite local museum and buy a membership for them there.

SHOP IT

Find Them A New Musical Hobby

A woman playing an acoustic guitar

(Image credit: MarioGuti/Getty Images)

They'll make sweet, sweet music in the new year thanks to you—and this gift from Fender. You can gift your musically-gifted friend six months of classes with the click of a button.

SHOP IT

Digital Fashion Gifts

A New Wardrobe

woman hanging coat in closet

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Fashion fans can't resist buying themselves new pieces every season, but you can help your friend out with the expenses with a Stitch Fix gift card. Think of Stitch Fix as a virtual stylist. You take a style quiz on their website and they send you pieces based on your results. If you fall in love with a piece, you can even buy it to keep in your closet. 

SHOP IT

A Year of New Underwear

MeUndies

(Image credit: MeUndies)

Update their underwear drawer with a MeUndies subscription. Come for the massive range of styles, stay for the cute limited-edition sets.

SHOP IT

A Monthly Sock Subscription Service

A woman's sock covered feet poke out from the covers at the end of her bed

(Image credit: mikroman6/Getty Images)

They're probably not focused on the contents of their sock drawer, but it's high time that they start curating it. SockFancy's subscription plans—you can choose a month-to-month option or dive in for a year-long one— will keep their feet warm all year long.

SHOP IT

A New Piercing

Tattooist piercing ear of customer in parlour - stock photo

(Image credit: Getty Images )

I love a good earring stack as much as the next fashion girl, so I would love the chance to expand it with a new piercing. The piercers at Banter know exactly what they are doing and how to make you feel comfortable before the needle comes anywhere near you. They can also pierce other body parts such as your nose or eyebrow and have a stunning selection of jewelry for your new piercing, too!

SHOP IT 

A Massage 

Woman laying on her stomach getting a massage

(Image credit: Getty Images)

After these last few years, everyone on your Christmas list could use some self care. With a Massage Envy gift card, that could be in the form of a personalized massage, facial, stretching session, or facial. There's over 1,000 Massage Envy locations across the U.S., so you really can't go wrong with gifting some much-needed TLC. 

SHOP IT

Digital Gifts for the Pet and Plant Lover

Easier Plant Care

woman watering plants

(Image credit: Getty Images)

As someone who can barely keep a snake plant alive, I know plant parents take their job seriously to keep their precious babies alive. With a paid subscription to Planta, their job is made tons more easier. Not only does the app keeps tabs on watering schedules, but it can also diagnose sick plants and assess the lighting of a room. 

SHOP IT

"Adopt" Them a Kangaroo

Kangaroos

(Image credit: Jami Tarris/Getty Images)

The World Wildlife Fund now lets you symbolically adopt an animal as a part of their ongoing efforts to save endangered species' from around the globe. Plus, they get a sweet stuffed toy that looks like the animal they've adopted!

SHOP IT

A Box of Roses That Lasts for a Year

Red roses

(Image credit: WillSelarep/Getty Images)

Venus et Fleur has garnered cult status for their selection of rose boxes that smell amazing for an entire year. Each box comes in a bunch of different colors, so you're bound to find one that they'll love.

SHOP IT

A Monthly Plant

A woman watering house plants

(Image credit: Sara Monika/Getty Images)

If your best friend is determined to turn her apartment into a greenhouse, gift her a monthly subscription to Horti. Each box with comes a plant, information on how to keep it alive, and a pot to keep it in.

SHOP IT

Fresh Flowers Every Month

Woman receiving bouquet of flowers

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A fresh bouquet of flowers makes for the perfect addition to any room. Send your loved one the gift of fresh flowers with BloomsyBox, a monthly subscription that sends colorful blooms right to your front door. Each bouquet contains 18 to 32 stems and arrives within five days to ensure maximum freshness. 

SHOP IT

Digital Gifts for Anyone on Your List

A Puzzle Subscription Box

Jiggy Puzzle Box

(Image credit: Jiggy)

I am nothing if not a chronic puzzler. If someone on your list goes through roughly a puzzle a month, it's time to get them a puzzle subscription box from JIGGY Puzzle Club. Every puzzle in the subscription comes with a puzzle and glue to make it into a lasting piece of art.

SHOP IT.

A Hotel Gift Card

Hotel

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If there's a place you know they've been dying to travel to on vacation, make getting there a little easier by gifting them a hotel gift card from Marriot.

SHOP IT

A SkillShare Membership

A smiling woman using a tablet computer

(Image credit: Lumina Images)

Know someone who's always trying their hand at something new? A Skillshare membership will help them figure out what to tackle next. You can choose from a three or six-month membership plan and gifts can be redeemed over time, so there's no rush for them to figure out what they want to try.

SHOP IT

A Monthly Candle Subscription

A woman lighting a candle with a match

(Image credit: Stephen Swintek/Getty Images)

NEST New York offers two different six and twelve-month subscription services. One includes a different candle delivered right to their door every month, while the other includes a candle and a reed diffuser. The candle-lover on your list is going to thank you.

SHOP IT

A MasterClass

A woman sits on a kitchen counter with her laptop

(Image credit: Westend61/Getty Images)

Some of the world's best in comedy, photography, filmmaking, cooking, and more are sharing the art of their craft over on MasterClass. The streaming platform offers videos from these creators that you can watch to learn more. Right now, the service is offering a deal where if you buy one annual membership, you'll get one free.

SHOP IT

Get Them Organized

A woman sits with a mug of coffee, a pen and a blank journal page

(Image credit: MundusImages/Getty Images)

Every month, this service from Silk + Sonder delivers a box designed to boost your creativity while keeping you calm. Each box includes a journal, habit tracker, a calendar spreads and a year of their monthly issues. The pieces are modeled after bullet journals, so you'll look cute while keeping your life in check.

SHOP IT

A Fun Date

Couple smiling and cooking together

(Image credit: Getty )

Give your couple friends something unique to do on their next date night with Happily's Datebox. Each box contains a date night based on the couple's personalities, likes, and dislikes. Dates include cooking classes, wine tastings, and arts and crafts. 

SHOP IT

The Gift of Sleep

A woman lays in bed asleep

(Image credit: LaylaBird/Getty Images)

A better night's sleep looks good on everybody. Calm is here to make that happen. Whether they want to get lulled to sleep by Harry Styles every night or simply need help winding down after a long day, any person on your list would love a gift card.

SHOP IT

Gift a Getaway

A log cabin next to a lake surrounded by trees

(Image credit: coryz/Getty Images)

Got a friend or couple who could really use a few days away in a sweet mini-home that's surrounded by nature? Getaway offers gift cards worth up to $500 so you can help them get out of town.

SHOP IT

A Sentimental Keepsake Book

A family huddle together to view a tablet computer screen

(Image credit: laflor/Getty Images)

This gift from Storyworth creates a customized memory book, so it's perfect if you're spending time away from your loved ones this season. Every week, Storyworth sends your family member a question, and they answer with a memory or anecdote. At the end of they year, they receive a bound book of all the memories and stories that were shared.

SHOP IT

A Family History Lesson 

three generational family

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Ancestry is the coolest way to learn more about yourself and where you come from, making it the perfect gift for anyone who's curious about their family tree. Choose from three different tiers—U.S., worldwide, and All-Access, which includes military records—and either gift a 6-month subscription or a year. 

SHOP IT

The Gift of Relaxation

Woman with headphones relaxing

(Image credit: Getty Images)

After the year everyone went through in 2020 (and let's be honest, 2021 too), your loved one could probably use a little extra R and R. Headspace is an app that provides guided meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep tracks. 

SHOP IT

An Old-Fashioned Greeting Card

woman opening pink letter

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Sometimes the most simple ideas are the way to go. Forget email if you're planning on sending out holiday cards. Instead, send a letter through snail mail with Postable. Simply choose a card from their hundreds of options and write a message, then Postable will send your recipients a request to input their mailing address and take care of shipping. 

SHOP IT

An Uncommon Experience

happy black women opening up box

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If all else fails on this list, gift your loved one an Uncommon Experience. Activities range from Scandinavian baking to astrology charting to painting, so there's bound to be something that tickles your friend's fancy. Experience gifts come with a class led by an expert instructor and everything you need to do the activity. 

SHOP IT

A Disney Gift Card

Anaheim, CA - 1973: Sleeping Beauty Castle appearing on the the ABC tv special 'Walt Disney: A Golden Anniversary Celebration', at Disneyland Park. (Photo by American Broadcasting Companies via Getty Images)

(Image credit: American Broadcasting Companies via Getty Images)

Trips to a Disney park can get expensive quick. Luckily, you can take some of the stress off by buying a gift card to the park. Perfect for first-time parents and Disney diehards alike.

SHOP IT

An Uncommon Goods Experience

If you've been shopping for gifts at all in the last month, you've probably happened upon Uncommon Goods's wesbite. The gifting haven now offers experiences to gift like wine tasting classes, cooking classes, and more.

SHOP IT

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<![CDATA[ Yes, You Can Snag Diptyque On Sale for Cyber Monday ]]> Cyber Monday is finally here, and while I'm insanely excited to snag my favorite products at a steep discount, I find shopping for the best beauty deals a bit stressful. So many sales are happening all at once, and I sometimes spend money on items I don’t like simply because I get a discount. To ease my anxiety, I'm focusing on finding deals for one of my favorite French fragrance brands this year—Diptyque. In my search, I found some of the absolute best perfume and candle deals to shop for 2024.

I'll give it to you straight: Your best bet at scoring a new perfume or luxurious candle from the brand is to search across multiple retailers. If that sounds like too much work for you, don't worry—I tracked them down for you. Bluemercury's current Cyber Monday Sale isn't the only place where you can score Diptyque for less: you can take 20 percent off any purchase (with no minimum spend!) through end of day Cyber Monday (December 2). The more you spend, the more you can save, too—take 25 percent off purchases of $800 or 30 percent off $1,500. You can also find discounts at sites like SSENSE, where select candles, room sprays, and fragrances are on sale for 15 percent off.

Keep scrolling for a definitive list of the best Diptyque perfumes and candles, according to me (Marie Claire's resident fragrance obsessee) our team of editors, to get a sense of the scents you may love. Our team is obsessed with the brand for its line of deliciously fragrant products that we can rely on to last day in and day out (or on 14-hour days when we’re running around to events and meetings). Trust me, you deserve to treat yourself this season.

Other Diptyque Products We Love

Will Diptyque Be On Sale for Cyber Monday?

Listen, we get it: trying to find and snag anything Diptyque on sale is truly one of shopping's Holy Grails. The brand is not one to put its products on sale. That said, it's not impossible! It just takes a bit of sleuthing around the sites and stores of those who stock it. So go forth, my focused and ferocious shoppers, and find yourself a little dipTREAT — we'll keep you updated here with whatever we find as we find it.

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<![CDATA[ The 17 Best Le Creuset Cyber Monday Deals and Sales in 2023 ]]> I've always loved baking and cooking, but it wasn't until recently that I discovered the importance of investing in high-quality kitchenware that survives years of wear and tear. Plus, elevated kitchenware tends to cook more evenly, therefore playing a huge role in creating delicious, hassle-free meals designed to impress. Among the most popular of these chef-vetted brands: Le Creuset.

You may be familiar with Le Creuset's signature Dutch oven, which can be used both on the stove and in the oven to cook soups, stews, breads, and more. However, the brand also boasts a slew of other items, including skillets, griddles, kettles, stockpots, roasting pans, and more. And every Black Friday and Cyber Monday, cooking beginners and aficionados flock to retailers like Sur La Table and WIlliams Sonoma to take advantage of rare sales that slash Le Creuset items' prices by hundreds of dollars. Below, some of the best Cyber Monday Le Creuset sales, whether you're looking to make beef bourguignon or to perfectly roast a chicken.

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<![CDATA[ Power Pick: Casper Element Pro Mattress ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


It's not often that one product comes into your life and radically changes everything about it, but that's how I feel about Casper's Element Pro Mattress. It has, in no uncertain terms, made me into a better, more well-rested person. But before I get into exactly why that is, let me break down my sleeping history. 

Before my Casper, I was sleeping on a makeshift collection of two hand-me-down mattress pads (I'm the middle kid of three) and one very old mattress from my parent's house. To put it mildly, it wasn't working. I tend to get hot when I sleep, and the mattress pads only made the problem worse. I would sink into the top one immediately upon laying down, which would leave me feeling like I was in my own personal sauna after an hour or so. I was having a lot of back, shoulder, hip, and neck pain, which I chalked up to the fact that I was simply getting older; stress; and the fact that I'm a lifelong side sleeper. I also found that I would wake up in the middle of the night, completely uncomfortable and wide awake. 

Enter: The Casper Element Pro. On paper, it checked off every one of my boxes. It uses AirScape technology to keep you cool, and had a two-foam formulation for support and comfort. I had slept on a Casper before and knew that they made best-in-class mattresses, so I was excited to see how the new improvements made what I loved already even better. 

Casper Element Pro Mattress, $995 $796 at Amazon

This mattress changed how I sleep—and it's on sale for 20 percent off right now for in the Amazon Prime Sale. View Deal

Like all of Casper's products, the new queen-sized Element Pro Mattress arrived in a (heavy, but manageable) box, and unrolled onto my bed into a single flat layer. It reached its normal size in less than 10 minutes, which meant that it took less than 30 minutes for me to open the box, set it up, make my bed, and test it out. And let me tell you: This mattress is a game-changer.

Some immediate things I noticed: It was firmer than I expected. It also sat lower to the ground than my previous setup, which meant that I wasn't having to deal with it slipping and sliding off my bed frame as I slept at night. The memory foam was a bit firmer than my old pad, and so subtle that I almost didn't notice it at first. But, after a few moments of laying on it, I found that it gave in all the right places and left my body feeling aligned—as opposed to my old setup, which left my hips and shoulders visibly lower than the rest of my body.

The first night I slept on it, I slept for nearly 10 hours straight. When I woke up, the first thing I noticed was the fact that I had been sleeping under my weighted blanket and a duvet, a hoodie, and sweatpants and I still felt cool. Then, when I stood up, I realized that I was virtually pain-free. As in, I felt no pain. Plus, the mattress was supportive enough that when my boyfriend got out of bed before me, my side of the bed didn't move an inch.

I know this sounds dramatic, but I don't think I've ever felt better than I did that morning. The little pops and cracks that usually accompanied my wakeup routine were nowhere to be found. And that night, the exact same thing happened: I slept through the night and awoke without pain, heat-stroke free. I even woke up early and felt well-rested enough to run several errands before work. To those that know me and my night-owl tendencies, this was a real shock.

Yes, the mattress is expensive at $895 for a Full and $995 for a Queen. But (and please don't take this lightly), the Element Pro is 100 percent worth it. I'd go so far as to argue that I've never made a better investment in myself, ever.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/casper-element-pro-mattress-review/ 4xy58MogQXYyFGenQB7rn8 Wed, 02 Nov 2022 20:23:19 +0000
<![CDATA[ The Best Dog Gifts in 2024 for Your Good Boy (or Girl) ]]> These past few years have been hard on everyone—except your dog. As your dog understands it, you're home more than ever now, you're always down for a cathartic snuggle, and when you say the magic words to your computer—"Thanks, everyone!"—it almost always means Walk Time. As for you, you've never been more grateful for the unconditional support and love you get from your canine best bud. In return, your dog deserves nothing less than one of the best dog gifts.

Can dogs understand concepts like "holidays" or "birthday" or even "just because I missed you"? No, probably not. Do they deserve a gift anyway? Of course they do. Maybe it's the anniversary of the day you got them, maybe it's just a random Tuesday—look, I don't care, and your dog doesn't, either. All they care about is that the shiny new thing you put in front of them is something they'll love, and those are the kind of dog toys (and gadgets, and apparel) you'll find on this list. Some of these dog gifts are designed to spark joy in dogs, and others will appeal to their owners. Some of the gifts on this list do both.

As for me and my dog, Captain, we've painstakingly taken the time to test-drive the toys and other products on this list. (Yes, my job is very hard; yes, Captain is very spoiled.) So please allow Captain and I to present: The best gifts for dogs and the people who adore them, from personalized collars, sweaters, and portraits to plush toys, treat makers, and ingenious gadgets that they won't be able to get enough of. A bonus: Every one is great for Instagram.

Best Dog Toys

I'm not an expert on many things, but I've lived with and loved—well, my dogs have loved—upwards of 100 dog toys, from plush toys to puzzle toys gifted by friends and relatives and endless "just because" toys. I've also had two dogs to try out the toys for me: Captain, who is so attached to his toys that we have to take several on every vacation, and Skipper, who loved nothing more than destroying toys for hours and proudly showing guests their remains. Without further ado: The best dog toys.

Best Personalized Dog Gifts

I have so many personalized dog items, from sweaters and candles to portraits and picture books, that friends give me weird looks when they first see my apartment. (I'm not proud. Actually, I'm a little proud.) A hot tip: For personalized dog gifts, order them well in advance—I'm talking 3 to 4 months—and if you're being quoted significantly less time than that, question its quality. Great personalized dog gifts, like the ones on this list, take time to create, especially around the holidays.

Best Dog Gifts That Give Back

Sorry to get a little dark here: 670,000 shelter animals are euthanized every year in the U.S., according to the ASPCA. Particularly in the South, animal shelters are overcrowded and underfunded, and there's no dog-rescue organization that will ever tell you they don't need more help. To that end, if you're buying a dog gift anyway, why not buy one that gives back—either by funding shelters or other kinds of rescue efforts, or by supporting dog adoption?

Best Dog Beds

Look, I'm not one of those people who builds a custom house for their dog and then outfits it with tiny portraits and a miniature television, okay? I live in New York City. I don't even have an in-unit washer and dryer. But you better believe that while I wait to hit my financial peak (i.e. the time when I can create the custom dog house of my dreams), I'll be outfitting my apartment with these dog beds.

Best Dog Gadgets

I'm always trying to make the time that I'm at work a little easier on my dog, and by "my dog," I mean me. (My dog sleeps all day while I'm gone. He's fine. Me, I'm a mess.) But I digress: From cameras that toss food while you're gone to treat makers so your dog can munch on custom snacks while you're at work, these dog gadgets make every day a little more delightful.

The Best Dog Clothes and Accessories

Some dogs hate wearing clothes, so check with the person (or their dog) in question before you invest in one of the adorable pieces of dog clothing or accessories on this list. But for many dogs, a vest or T-shirt can actually feel soothing—Captain, my dog, loves wearing sweaters in winter, and there's a reason the ThunderShirt treats anxiety in pets. Even if it's not soothing, the dog apparel below is still, well, extremely cute.

Best Miscellaneous Dog Gifts

These dog gifts don't fall under a specific category, but man, do I love them anyway.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g24851290/best-dog-gifts/ Kv5xuxiwM8jivXYbjVMJg3 Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:08:13 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 12 Best Luxury Candles, According to Fragrance-Obsessed Editors ]]> I'm a big fragrance girl. Sure, I have my favorite perfumes (they span floral and citrus to gourmand), but my appreciation for scent goes deeper. I have fine fragrance deodorants and scented hand soaps. I own fragrant body lotions and hair products, too. But my fragrance wardrobe is never complete without a healthy roster of the best luxury candles. Because yes, my home does, in fact, need a signature scent.

Courtesy of fashion houses like Loewe and Bottega Veneta to fragrance-first brands including Trudon and Hotel Lobby Candle, these elevated waxes and wicks transform my home into a beach in New England or a verdant European garden ripe with juicy tomatoes. Luxury candles are often home decor in their own right, with stunning sculptural containers and reusable vessels (I use fully-burned candles as makeup brush holders.)

Ahead, you'll find my personal favorite luxury candles—along with a few that Marie Claire editors were quick to offer up as their top picks. Whether you're looking to upgrade your candle arsenal (can you ever have too many?) or gift a few this holiday season, I have you covered.

The Best Luxury Candles

candle in the home

Samantha Holender uses this candle as home decor. (Image credit: MC Staff)

candle in the home

This Trudon candle double as the perfect gift—but trust me, you'll want one for yourself, too. (Image credit: MC Staff)

candle in the home

I light this every night in the fall, and it's still going strong. (Image credit: MC Staff)

candle in the home

How great would this jar be as a makeup brush holder? (Image credit: MC Staff)

More Luxury Candles We Love

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/best-luxury-candles/ 32wD7fYk3nNAYzGbmoKFbY Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:29:13 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: Apple iPhone 14 Pro ]]> Welcome to Power Pick, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


What I’m about to tell you is embarrassing. Here goes: I owned an Android phone in 2013. There, I said it. It was approximately six years after the first generation iPhone launched, and the rest of the world was fully living in iPhone land. At the time, iPhones were as popular as pumpkin spice lattes on a fall day—if you didn't have one, you were on the outs—but I didn’t care. I loved my Android and wasn’t switching. 

My first experience with an iPhone was horrible: I had the second generation and my calls frequently dropped, my texts messages never delivered, and my screen did a strange blinking thing. Many of the problems turned out to be a result of my cell service carrier rather than the equipment, but nevertheless I was naïve, stubborn, and completely turned off. 

Fast forward to 2022 and I can’t imagine my life without an iPhone. My world is busier than ever—I work full time and am a mom to rambunctious three- and six-year-olds, in several committees at their schools, plan weekly activities for my family, and am a member of Jack and Jill of America, where I frequently plan events and fundraisers with other women in my area. I am spent! 

Thankfully, there's hope. The iPhone 14 Pro is the newest addition to Apple's line of premium smartphones, and it makes my life much easier. Here's how. 

The Camera

As someone who is constantly taking pictures of her kids, I need a camera that quickly captures my littles in the best way. I don't want to fumble with camera modes or adjust the lighting. I need a plug and play experience. 

I don’t pretend to be a photographer, but I  know an awesome camera when I see one. The iPhone 14 Pro offers four camera modes: ultrawide, 1x, 2x, and 3x, which are all great for zooming in and out. There’s also a new 12MP ultra wide camera with 1.4 pixels, which delivers sharper images with more detail, and an action mode that helps me achieve smoother-looking video. It adjusts to significant shakes (you know, like when your toddler is grabbing your arm), motion, and vibrations, even when video is being captured. 

Durability

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dropped my phone while in the middle of carrying items or trying to manage a project. For this reason, I typically go with a durable phone case, but sometimes my iPhone still cracks. Argh!

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max offer a ceramic shield front cover that’s tougher than any other smartphone glass and protects from common spills and accidents, along with water and dust resistance. This isn't a new feature, but it eases my anxiety when I suddenly drop my phone, and I'm so thankful for it. 

iPhone 14 on top of books on a desk

(Image credit: Courtesy)

Dynamic Island

By far, my favorite feature of the iPhone 14 Pro is Dynamic Island, which enables me to maintain an active state (like chatting on the phone, listening to music, etc.) while having access to controls with a simple tap-and-hold. Essentially, the pill-shaped cutout at the top acts as a central hub, allowing me to be privy to alerts and notifications without having to open an app or unlocking the device. It’s great when I'm responding to an email but need to skip a song on Apple music. I just tap the Dynamic Island to switch straight into the associated app. Genius! 

Crash Detection and Emergency SOS

There are also features I hope I never use, but am grateful to know they exist. Crash detection can recognize a severe car crash and automatically dial emergency services when a user is unconscious or unable to reach their iPhone. What’s more, when combined with an Apple watch, crash detection seamlessly uses both devices. In such an event, the emergency services call interface appears on Apple Watch and the call is placed through iPhone, if it is in range.

Speaking of emergencies, iPhone14 models also offer Emergency SOS, a safety feature that allows you to text first responders through satellite when you're in an area with no cellular or Wi-Fi connection.

Again, I hope I never use these features, but when you’re a mom of two, you can never be too prepared, right?

Always-On Display Mode

Can I make another confession? I love updating my phone wallpaper with recent pictures of my family. I know, I know—I'm a ball of emotions. This also means I’m often frustrated when the phone is dark because (1) I can’t see the time and (2) My picture-of-the-moment isn't on display. 

Fortunately, the iPhone 14 Pro features always-on display mode, which means the device is dimly lit when asleep or locked and still shows the time, date, wallpaper photo and notifications. It’s a bit too soon to discover if this mode will drain my battery, but the OLED displays with reduced brightness are enough to keep me happy. It’s a small perk, but constantly knowing the date and time without having to tap my phone is major. 

I can’t say what type of phone I’ll love in the years to come, but I do know that as long as my life remains this hectic, iPhone will always be a frontrunner.

Shop iPhone 14 Pro Accessories

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/apple-iphone-14-pro-review/ Aumnkkgv37TCPPNAeFTe6A Wed, 12 Oct 2022 20:00:00 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too.


Before I share my official review of the Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde, I need to take a quick little trip down memory lane to explain what my life looked like almost exactly a year ago. 

Last fall, I was in the early months of pregnancy: I had recently learned I was pregnant with twin girls (Shocking! Exciting!) and was just starting to realize what my body was in for (Also shocking! A whole lot less exciting!). Along with nausea, one surprising and unpleasant pregnancy symptom I experienced was frequent and sometimes scary nosebleeds. I would be sitting on a Zoom call or just minding my own business sleeping when my nose would suddenly start to bleed. When I asked my doctor about it, she assured me that it was normal (up to a point), but one of her recommendations for trying to reduce the frequency of these incidents was to use a humidifier at night. 

Around the same time, Dyson announced the release of their new two-in-one purifier and humidifier. The Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde not only promised levels of hydration that would help prevent dry, cracked, winter-ridden skin, but also an air filtration system strong enough to clean the air in a large room. The combination of increasing the moisture levels in my big-for-New-York-City bedroom plus ridding the air of allergens and other potential nose irritants sounded like exactly what I needed. 

I decided to try the fancy-sounding new product, and was happy from the start. It's incredibly easy to set up and use and even has an accompanying app that allows you to turn it on and off from your phone. Through the app you can also monitor the filter and air pollutant levels on a daily (or even hourly!) basis. It's the kind of thing that's easy to nerd out on—and also made me thankful to have the purifier element in addition to the humidifier. After one week of owning the Dyson, I noticed the app showed that the air pollutant levels were bad every morning around the same time, which must be when garbage or delivery trucks are driving around the neighborhood. Super gross! The air quality also spikes every time my husband is cooking (a.k.a. burning something) on high heat, which is just a fun little thing I like to point out to him.

But while the purifier element was nice to have, the humidifier was a need-to-have for me. I was again immediately pleased. The humidifier emits a mist-free stream of moisture-rich air, meaning you're combatting dryness without leaving any residue. It's also easy to use: You just fill the removable tank at the bottom of the machine with water (for me, I need to refill it every other day) and turn it on. Poof!  I keep the remote by my bedside table and basically hit the on button with my eyes closed. 

After a few weeks of use, I noticed a real change. I had less frequent nose bleeds and fully stopped waking up with them during the night. In the mornings, I didn't have that dry throat-and-mouth feeling you get after eight hours spent sleeping with the heat on. It wasn't magic, but it was very good.

This not-quite-magic magic comes at a price. A literal price, of course: The Purifier-Humidifier retails for $939.99, which is nothing to sneeze at (or not sneeze at if it's doing its job!). But also a takes-up-space price. This isn't a small machine. While it's not very wide, it stands almost to waist height, meaning it's hard for it to be incognito in a room—especially considering you want it placed somewhere central-ish so that it can do its job. That said, it has a slick, modern look that I preferred to other options.

I was very happy with the Dyson—so happy, in fact, that when we found ourselves in another air-quality pickle, we knew exactly what to buy. A few weeks after all the nosebleed to-do and about a month before my delivery, we discovered mold in our building’s hallway. After a brief panic and a quick mold remediation, we decided to buy a second Dyson purifier-humidifier to put in the babies’ room. The Dyson has a HEPA filter and a sensor that constantly monitors the air quality so it can trap the bad stuff and just release clean air. The purifier can be used without the humidifier, so we keep the machine on with the purifying function running constantly and opt to turn the humidifier on only at night when they room starts to get dry. In fact, we didn’t use the humidifier for most of the summer in either bedroom, but kept the purifier and fan going, which pushes out cooled, clean air.

A full year later, my two purifier-humidifiers, two babies, and I are all very happy and sleeping well—or, at least as well as people living in a house with seven-month-olds sleep. But we're definitely breathing easy.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/dyson-purifier-humidify-cool-review/ DHCtAPF8AnMXQguNXiFCPm Wed, 28 Sep 2022 21:07:47 +0000
<![CDATA[ Roborock’s Dyad Wet-Dry Vacuum Is a Total Game-Changer ]]> Why is it that living a fun and fulfilling life and having a clean house tend to feel mutually exclusive? Obviously the joy that comes from having friends, kids, and pets in your space outweighs any mess, no matter the size, that those folks might make. But that doesn’t make cleaning up any more fun. 

Fortunately, Roborock has created a novel solution that makes cleaning pretty much any mess that life can throw at you in a fast, efficient, and—dare we say it?—even fun way. Meet Dyad, the wet and dry vacuum that’s unlike any cleaning device you’ve seen before. 

Now, if your immediate thought upon hearing the phrase “wet-dry vacuum” is a giant, clunky, and super loud machine that barely fits in your closet, Dyad will be a real wake-up call. Remember that Roborock is the company that brought to market some of the cleverest robotic vacuums ever, and that “thought of everything” ethos is definitely at play in Dyad. 

Roborock Dyad

(Image credit: Roborock)

First, the sheer range of Dyad’s capabilities are astonishing, especially considering how it all comes in such an elegant and sleek package. With Dyad’s dual-roller motor and multi-roller wet/dry vacuum, there is no mess it can’t tackle. Even things that used to take several different cleaning techniques—say, a dropped bowl of cereal, or a pet mess—can be handled with just the Dyad. It can even clean up water that got onto the floor post-shower, no need to get your towel dirty.

Second, and speaking of dirt, another downside of wet-dry vacuums is cleaning up the grimy water that gets left behind after you’ve used them. No one wants to deal with that. So, of course, the geniuses at Roborock handled that aspect too—Dyad sucks the dirty water up and away at the push of a button without the need to “clean after cleaning.” Dyad is a one-and-done machine. 

Roborock Dyad

(Image credit: Roborock)

Of course, Dyad’s design deserves a serious shout-out. It’s sleeker than other vacuums that do far less than Dyad does. It can move in 180 degrees, so getting into small spaces is a piece of cake (which is, incidentally, another mess Dyad could totally clean up if it fell on the floor). It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and small enough to fit in a broom closet without taking up more space than the rest of your appliances combined. 

And since it’s rechargeable, you can bring it anywhere in your home without having to worry about proximity to a plug. Roborock specifically designed Dyad to be easy to handle so that popping it out in an emergency mess scenario is a breeze. 

Roborock Dyad

(Image credit: Roborock)

And best of all, to celebrate Roborock’s 8th anniversary, there are some serious discounts on Dyad and other Roborock models. Dyad was always a totally worthwhile investment, but at its current price it’s even more of a no-brainer to bring into your home. 

Like all of Roborock’s products, Dyad makes cleaning so effortlessly easy that you don’t have to take your focus off the fun. Because your home should be for enjoying life, not stressing about what a mess it makes. 

Check out Roborock’s website for purchasing options, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/roborock-genius-wet-dry-dyad-vacuum/ rpcT9ex8DDN6vC45iphP7d Mon, 29 Aug 2022 16:33:15 +0000
<![CDATA[ Power Pick: The Hatch Restore Alarm Clock ]]> Welcome to Power Picks, a monthly series on the things that help us navigate our lives, step into our personal power, or simply get us through our day-to-day. Our hope is that by sharing what makes us feel great, we can help you feel great, too. 


I'll be the first to admit that my sleep schedule is, without a doubt, terrible. After a late afternoon slump, I get a second wind of energy around 10 p.m., after which I'm wide awake until the wee hours of the morning. I even joke to friends that if they ever want to make future plans or hear about my goals, they should text me around midnight, because it's when I'm my most ambitious. 

And while there's such a thing as a reverse cycle, these habits often leave me groggy and cranky the next morning—a phenomenon worsened by the pandemic, which enabled me to keep my laptop on my nightstand and work from my bed in the mornings. At the end of 2021, I decided that I couldn't go on this way, and started looking for ways of regulating my sleep schedule. 

At first, nothing worked. Neither chamomile tea nor melatonin induced sleepiness, abandoning electronics before bed just meant I'd get caught up reading books until 1:30 a.m. instead of scrolling through Instagram, and setting an ambitiously early alarm the next morning to force my schedule into regularity just made me crankier and more accustomed to hitting snooze. 

The solution to my sleep woes was one I never expected: A new alarm clock. More specifically, the Hatch Restore, which serves as an alarm, light, and sound machine. 

Hatch Restore on a nightstand with books and a candle

(Image credit: Courtesy)

Interestingly, I started using my Hatch not as an alarm clock, but as a nighttime sound machine. I live a floor below people who, I'm convinced, own shoes made of solid concrete, and to make matters worse, the stairwell to my building sits directly above my bedroom area. Almost unbelievably, my neighbors also happen to work in music production, and begin the dull roar of their daily practice between the hours of 10 PM and 1 AM (I wish I was kidding). 

Because of these circumstances, when I first moved into my apartment, I found it impossible to fall asleep. No matter how tired I was or how many sheets I pulled over my ears, I couldn't drown out the noise. Suddenly, I remembered the Hatch Restore that I'd received as a gift months earlier, and took it out of its box and plugged it in beside my bed.

The instructions in the box prompted me to download the Hatch Sleep app, which easily connected to my device and prompted me to create evening and morning routines, all of which I can control and adjust at any given time. Routines can include certain levels and colors of light, as well as various ambient sounds. For instance, my evening routine starts with 30 minutes of reading time, which is marked by white light along with heavy rain sounds. Then, it transitions into "fall asleep" time, which consists of light rain sounds with no light. Other restful auditory options include the sound of a dishwasher, an evening campfire, a fan, crickets, a creek, the ocean, and much more, while the light can be adjusted to any color and intensity.

Miraculously, these sounds drown out the sound of my neighbors. And although I can, of course, hear a bit of stomping around from time to time, the ambient sounds give me something to focus on, and calm my frustration and anxiety. I'm also flabbergasted at the extent to which the light rain sound helps me sleep: For years, I've had to toss and turn for hours every night, unable to fall asleep, but with this new routine, I've been passing out in minutes.

Now, in terms of Hatch's alarm function, I was more skeptical at first. I'd heard of alarms like this one, which promised to gradually wake users through light and natural sounds (like birds chirping, for instance), and I never thought that such gentle means would be enough to stir me in the mornings—especially because of my tendency to wake up so exhausted. 

But Hatch's alarm function subtly wakes me up so that it feels like I'm coming back to consciousness on my own. In fact, I've often awoken surprised that my internal clock got me up so early, only to realize that it wasn't my internal clock at all: It was my Hatch. And because I'm naturally aroused from my REM sleep, I wake up ready to move instead of reaching for Snooze. Personally, my wake-up routine consists of gentle red light accompanied by bird sounds, but other options include chimes, bells, clocks, flutes, and other sounds, and the light, of course, is completely customizable. 

Let me be clear: I am still a long way from considering myself a morning person, and I still tend to get a strong surge of energy long after day turns into night. But by making my routine something that I look forward to and find peace in—and by streamlining that routine so that I don't have to self-regulate so much—my Hatch Restore has helped me sleep better and longer, feel more energized throughout my day, and overall become a healthier, more balanced individual. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/hatch-restore-alarm-review/ jwPsQ84NnArNPyQzJY6uVf Tue, 19 Jul 2022 17:48:52 +0000
<![CDATA[ Test Drive: Avocado Green Mattress ]]>

Fashion Test Drive

(Image credit: Future)

At Marie Claire, we love to be the first to discover what will become the hottest accessories and looks for the upcoming season. But instead of simply identifying the latest It items, we’ve decided to go one step further. Welcome to Fashion Test Drive: our ongoing series where editors demo must-have pieces before they arrive in stores—and in your closet. Next up: The Avocado Green Mattress.

I am a perpetually under-rested individual: I get a second wind of energy around 10 p.m. that keeps me up reading or doing chores until, before I know it, it’s 1 a.m., and I only have a few hours to sleep before work. So when I was given the opportunity to test out Avocado’s Green Mattress, which has received rave customer reviews because of its ethical, eco-friendly standards and its incomparable coziness, I jumped at the chance.

Founded in 2016, the company incorporates sustainable production methods across its supply chain out of its commitment to "safeguard your health and protect our planet." Plus, they promise a luxury rest experience and supplement their popular handcrafted mattress line with other bedding accessories like sheets, throws, pillows, loungewear, and more—all of which work in tandem to deliver the best sleep.

Determined to investigate myself (and always down for a midday nap) I headed to Avocado's New York City location on 5th Avenue for the ultimate comfortable-meets-sustainable experience.

Good for the Planet

Did you know that most mattresses are made using petroleum-based polyurethane foams and memory foams? These agents are devastating to the environment due to both production methods and the chemicals that they release into the air. Avocado's mattresses, however, are made from GOTS- and GOLS-certified organic materials, and the company is a Certified B-Corp and Climate Neutral Certified. All of the latex used to create the mattresses is produced using sustainable methods that prohibit pesticide usage and prevent soil erosion, and their processing facilities employ eco-friendly methods like steam-baking, wind energy, and rainwater collection. Most mattresses are made on-demand, which prevents energy waste and buildup of extra inventory.

Good for Your Health

If the polyurethane in other mattresses is bad for the environment, imagine how much havoc it can wreak on your health! Research by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that indoor air is at least five times more polluted than outdoor air, and that poor indoor air quality can cause health problems like headaches, dizziness, allergic irritation, asthma, and even heart disease and cancer. Avocado's mattresses are among the few mattresses that are MADE SAFE certified–a rigorous certification that verifies products are made with ingredients that aren’t known or suspected to harm human, animal, or ecosystem health. The company also never uses polyurethane-based foams, flame retardants, or glue.

Good for the Soul

The minute I laid down on Avocado's luxurious Green Mattress, I knew I was in serious danger of falling asleep in their store midday. All of their mattresses incorporate several tall layers of organic wool, latex, and cotton held together by button-tufting in addition to 1,414 individually tuned coils, making this particular mattress sit at 11-inches of thickness. The model I tried also incorporated the optional European-style pillow top, which contoured perfectly to my body without being too plush. In perfect bliss, I was able to read, leisurely check my emails, daydream, and even doze a little, all the while thinking of ways I could convince my boss to let me work from the Avocado store for the rest of the day. A 10/10, indeed.

What To Pair With Your Mattress

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https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion-test-drive-avocado-mattress/ HmaAb8hqy42NNEVGxEVUh4 Fri, 15 Jul 2022 18:44:05 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 30 Best Amazon Prime Day Home Deals ]]> It's that time of year again, folks: Amazon Prime Day. And I don't know about you, but every year I write down a list of items to scour the site for while the deals are hot. This year in particular, my shopping list for Prime Day is dominated by home decor that's functional, effective, and fashionable, so that my new apartment can feel more like home. 

If, like me, you're hoping to decorate your home on a budget this summer, keep scrolling for my favorite Prime Day home deals that'll wow your house guests and save your wallet. 

Living Room

I spend most of my time in my living space, from watching TV to entertaining to working from home. Therefore, I do everything I can to make the space inviting, comfortable, and spacious. Below, some of the best Prime Day living room products that combine form and function.

Bedroom

Your bedroom should be an oasis of calm and comfort, but these rooms are too often characterized by clutter and chaos. The Prime Day bedroom products ahead will keep your space looking chic and feeling comfortable while keeping all your belongings in order.

Bathroom

After a long day of putting up with public bathrooms, I love coming home to my clean, sweet-smelling, ultra-feminine bathroom. A little decor goes a long way in this highly personal space, and the items ahead are a great place to start. 

Kitchen

I love entertaining—so much of which revolves around making savory meals, delightful drinks, and memorable spreads. Keep reading for some of my entertaining essentials, all of which will leave a lasting impression on your next dinner party guests.

blow dryer

(Image credit: Tatiana Dyuvbanova / EyeEm/Getty )

The 16 Best Amazon Prime Day Hair Dryer Deals of 2022

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/amazon-prime-day-home-deals/ yxXFoCf9ipKYCsPwZBmofM Wed, 13 Jul 2022 21:14:53 +0000
<![CDATA[ AirPods Pro Are on Rare Sale for Prime Day ]]> Let me count the ways I love my AirPods Pro: The way they turn themselves on with a pleasant beep as soon as I fit them into my ears. The noise canceling function, which is why I specifically bought a pair for my fiancé for when I'm on the phone with my friends in our tiny New York City apartment. (He says he can't imagine how he lived without them. No comment.) The "transparent" listening function, so I can play music while walking my dog while still being aware of my surroundings. AirPods are rarely on sale, but Prime Day is an exception—and for this Prime Day, which runs on July 12 and July 13 this year, the AirPods Pro are more than 30 percent off: They're down to $170 from their usual price of $250.

While we're here, let me tell you some more of the ways I love—genuinely love—my AirPods Pro. Said fiancé likes to fall asleep to gaming YouTube videos, but with his AirPods in I can't hear a damn thing. (A gift to us both, truly.) If I'm walking around and someone speaks to me, I can pause the music instantly by squeezing the base of one AirPod—a tiny, simple movement that means I don't have to take them out to go grocery shopping or stop by the bodega. And when I fly, I like to turn on Noise Canceling mode and fall asleep in seconds, because it totally drowns out that engine noise that stops you from forgetting you are, in fact, on a plane.

I could go on, but you get the gist. These earbuds hardly ever go on sale, so grab them before they sell out if you're in the market for a pair.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/airpods-pro-prime-day-sale/ 4xMW8Dv8xABjx4MPMaeLgM Tue, 12 Jul 2022 15:24:57 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 16 Best Inflatable Pools for Your Hot Girl Summer ]]> Let's face it: We could all use a beach trip right now. Who among us hasn't longingly thought about taking a day off mid-week to sit by the water? If you're not one of the lucky few who live next to the ocean—or the very select few who happen to have a pool in their apartment building—the best inflatable pools for adults will have to cut it for summer 2023. Fortunately, there are some great ones available, which is how you've gotten here.

Think of these adult inflatable pools as the perfect reason to pull out your favorite beach towels, stock up your best beach bag with a few warm-weather essentials (sunscreen!) and catch some rays in your backyard. The majority of inflatable pools on this list are priced at under $100 and will be delivered to your house in less than a week (thanks, Amazon Prime!), plus they're super easy to inflate on your own. 

And no, these are not those mini-pools that can't hold more than a few small children. Some of these inflatable pools are big enough to hold your entire family; others come in a bunch of cute prints and colors, so they'll match the rest of your outdoor decor. Pull out your favorite swimsuit and take a dip. You deserve the self-care time, we promise. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g33394189/best-inflatable-pools/ S4hi9cw6CMPx7pUdYiQXk8 Wed, 15 Jun 2022 21:38:20 +0000
<![CDATA[ Roborock’s Home Cleaning Products Are About to Make Your Life So Much Easier ]]> Do you like the feeling of coming back after a long day to a fresh and spotless home? That’s a rhetorical question, because obviously everyone likes that feeling. It’s so freeing—exhilarating, even—to know that your home is keeping you healthy and is ready for any activity  you want to do there. But as already busy people who are seeing our calendars fill up again, it’s an increasingly fleeting feeling. Who has time to sweep or vacuum every day? And, more importantly, even if you did have a bit of time, who would want to spend it doing that? That’s where Roborock comes in: Their game-changing smart vacuums and other devices are designed to help you spend more time living your life, and less time stressing over your to-do list. Roborock’s commitment to their mission—creating innovative technological solutions to people’s genuine problems—is why they’ve become the industry leader in home robotics. 

A Roborock vacuum is one of the most practical investments you can make for your home, because (wonderful fresh feeling aside) your time is one of the most valuable things you have, and you should spend it doing the things you like—not cleaning. That’s also why Roborock has streamlined every facet of their products. For a perfect example of this thoughtful design in action, check out the S7 MaxV Ultra, their flagship robot vacuum:

roborock cleaning appliances

(Image credit: Roborock)

Like all of Roborock’s products, the S7 is simple to set up after one easy pairing to your smart device, after which it will just know how to both mop and vacuum around your home and keep itself charged. It works on nearly every surface, navigating seamlessly around obstacles without getting stuck or falling over, all while detecting even the smallest patch of dirt or dust to  improve the look, scent, and feel of your home. 

And because you can program when your vacuum runs, Roborock lets you clean your home without even being there. This is a company that believes a product shouldn’t merely work, but should work exceptionally well, be built to last, and include thoughtful details that solve real problems. You can’t really put a price on peace of mind or newfound free time, but even if you could it would still be less than the cost of a Roborock vacuum. 

roborock cleaning appliances

(Image credit: Roborock)

We would be remiss not to mention one of our favorite aspects of Roborock, which is their embrace of pet owners. This company acknowledges the constant struggle of loving your furry friend while also hating how quickly your floors get covered with a fine, wall-to-wall layer of pet hair. It’s a lot! But because Roborock understands the plight of pet parents, on top of commitment to durability across their entire suite of products, their latest generation of vacuums are compatible with smart docks. Every pit stop your vacuum makes to the charger allows it to top off its battery, dump its own dustpan, and refill and replace the water for its mop. Because, really, what’s the point of having a robot do your chores if you have to then clean up after it, by emptying the dustbin or cleaning the mop? In fact, Roborock’s research has shown that customers find having to manually wash their robotic vacuum’s mop is one of the least enjoyable aspects of owning these devices. Roborock heard those concerns and addressed them with innovation and thoughtful detailing, a commitment to customer happiness that separates the company from the rest of the industry. 

When you bring a Roborock product into your home, you can do away with your regular broom, dustpan, mop, and manual vacuum, and instead replace them with one sleek, innovative, thoughtfully designed robotic vacuum that takes care of all of those chores for you. Say goodbye to your to-do list. 

roborock cleaning appliances

(Image credit: Roborock)

Coming home should make you happy. And while many of us are spending more time at home these days, that shouldn’t mean spending a disproportionate amount of time on chores. With Roborock’s advanced line of smart vacuums, you can streamline your work-from-home routine and spend your valuable time doing the things that really matter to you, with the people and pets you love. 

Check out the full line of products at Roborock.com, and follow Roborock on Instagram at @roborockglobal and on Facebook

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/roborock-elegant-home-appliances/ 4QrnK8NvCEvk2pQ9EiRkCG Wed, 01 Jun 2022 16:00:42 +0000
<![CDATA[ How We Vet Products ]]> When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, from shampoos and conditioners and hair wraps to ballet flats and luggage sets, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve personally spoken to (more on that in a moment). We’re committed to featuring a diverse range of brands, products, experts, and price points for our readers—because, more than anything, we want to help you look and feel your best.

How We Research Products

Our award-winning team of Marie Claire writers and editors test a range of products across categories including fashion, beauty, home, lifestyle, food and drink, and more.

Beauty

In addition to trying a constant stream of products across hair, skincare, fragrance, makeup, and nail categories, the Beauty team at Marie Claire ensures that our content is in line with up-to-date scientific research. We do this by consulting recent studies and clinical trials; by dissecting ingredient lists and manufacturer information; by speaking to estheticians, celebrity hairstylists, dermatologists, makeup artists, and other experts; and by regularly reviewing and revising our content so that it reflects the most current information. 

While we only feature products we personally recommend, we strive to be clear about how you can expect products to work on individual skin types, skin tones, and hair textures. We aim to be as specific as possible about how products should be used for best results, and which products only work for specific consumers or under specific circumstances.

Fashion

With the goal of recommending clothing, accessories, investment pieces, and trends to our readers, the Fashion team at Marie Claire constantly attends market appointments, fashion shows, brand launches, and more. We speak to designers, stylists, buyers, and trend experts to identify the materials, brands, styles, and products to direct our readers to; we carefully consider the labor practices, craftsmanship, and sustainability policies of the brands we highlight. 

Our team strives to highlight small businesses, BIPOC-owned businesses, and women entrepreneurs.

Sexual Wellness

In order to provide recommendations within the sexual wellness category that are safe, effective, and high-quality, the Marie Claire team attends product launches, informational sessions and presentations, and expert panels. We also consult peer-reviewed studies and consult with sex experts such as brand founders, sex toy engineers, pelvic floor experts, gynecologists, and sex therapists and counselors. We only recommend sex toys from established, reputable brands with a proven track record of safety and efficacy, and we exclusively recommend toys that are made from durable, body-safe materials.

When possible, we test and review sexual wellness products ourselves in order to ensure their efficacy, but we also source from experts and reviewers when recommending products in order to be mindful of all preferences, anatomies, genders, and relationship statuses. When recommending toys, lubricants, and other products, we also make note of how to use them safely.

Our Experts

Marie Claire editors have an extensive network of experts who are deeply familiar with the brands, products, trends, and services in their respective fields. These include board-certified dermatologists, plastic surgeons, designers, stylists, founders, influencers, creative directors, aestheticians, hair stylists, specialists in their respective fields, and more.

Awards and Franchises

On our search to find the best of the best in every category, we stumble across products, brands, and launches that we love—items we can’t get enough of, companies we can’t stop raving to our friends about. We know that the women we look up to, from founders to A-listers, also have their favorites. That’s where our franchises, from The Essentials to Power Pick, come in. 

For Beauty Around the Clock, we speak to public figures about their beauty and wellness routines from morning to night; for Power Pick, our editors open up about the item or service they feel most empowered by. What I Wear to Work features iconic women talking about their go-to office look, while Fashion Test Drive sees our editors trying out luxury purchases in the real world. In Small Business Spotlight, we dive deep into the origin story and business practices of a small brand we want our readers to know about. And when it comes to the crème de la crème in beauty products, look no further than Marie Claire’s annual Prix Awards. 

Ethics and Integrity

At Marie Claire, we’re committed to transparency and inclusion. All partnerships, sponsorships, and/or pieces of branded content are clearly marked, and we maintain a clear division between editorial staff and content and sales staff and content. 

All content is fact-checked, with hyperlinks added to supporting documentation where appropriate. 

All opinions expressed about products are our own. Any products included in editorial content, as opposed to branded content, were expressly chosen by our editorial team with no input from brands or from our commercial partners. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/how-we-test/ 58gQusEPDfijWQn3fPBreL Wed, 25 May 2022 20:04:05 +0000
<![CDATA[ 21 Cute Notebooks for To-Do Lists and Journaling ]]> Computer screens have become a main form of communication for those of us who have had the privilege of working from home during the pandemic, leading to a major strain on our eyes. That's why there's no better time to invest in a cute notebook (...or five) to keep track of to-do lists and occasionally doodle during unnecessary Zoom meetings. Journaling doesn't hurt either—it may not seem like it right now, but in a few years you'll want to remember your thoughts during this crazy time we're living in. Ditch the Notes app and keep yourself organized with these chic notebooks, below. (For all your planner and agenda needs, try one of these.)

Fans of Gray Malin will love his "The Beach" notebook featuring the famed photographer's fine art photography on the cover and lined with 136 pages.

Add some brightness to your day with this yellow notebook that comes equipped with a waterproof (!) cover. 

Who wouldn't be obsessed with the cute mushroom design on this soft cover notebook? It has 144 pages inside. 

"You're Doing Great Bitch": The reminder we could all use these days, courtesy of this cheeky notebook from Society6. 

When it feels like you have a thousand tabs open in your brain, put it all on paper with this minimalist three-tab notebook. It's available in blue and red!

“Inhale, exhale. It is well. It is well.” A gratitude vibe check from artist Morgan Harper Nichols when we experience some overwhelming days. 

Talk about getting some bang for your buck: Jonathan Adler's chic notebook comes with a 300-piece puzzle (!). 

Spark joy with this minimalist fruit notebook lined with 128 pages. 

Ban.do's 11 in. x 9 in. large notebook comes in an array of patterns with enough space to write down all of your big ideas. 

Moleskine lovers, rejoice: The brand's standard notebook comes in this pretty blue color. 

Utilize this Aya Paper Co. notebook to write our your intentions for the year. It's embossed in gold foil and made out of 100 percent recycled paper.

In honor of International Women's Day, Papier teamed up with mental health and wellbeing nonprofit organization Gurls Talk, founded by activist and model Adwoa Aboah, to create this gorgeous "feeling is what makes life beautiful" notebook. You can shop the rest of the collection here.

Creatives will appreciate the beautiful covers on this lined set of notebooks from Greer Chicago. 

Use one of Rifle Paper Co.'s pretty bon voyage notebooks for work to-do lists, the other for doodling, and the third for journaling. 

This blank notebook from sustainable California-based brand Wilde House Paper is great for doodling or writing down your to-do list. 

Be Rooted's "Lead With Passion" journal will inspire you to do just that as we navigate these unpredictable times together. 

Allow this customizable rainbow notebook to remind you that better days are coming. 

Target's Levi's collection includes this three-pack of notebooks featuring a geometric dot design, blue and white stripes, and a plain denim notebook. Yes, you're reading that price correctly!

For brides-to-be that had to postpone their wedding, keep the inspiration flowing for the big day in this “Tying the Knot” notebook. On the other hand, it also makes for an excellent pre-wedding gift. 

ThirdLove’s “To Each, Her Own” notebook with 200 lined pages is a reminder that we all handle situations differently—and it’s okay to feel whatever you’re feeling right now.

If you're back in the office, you’ll want to take Montblanc’s shiny croc-embossed notebook with you to those Very Important Meetings. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g32222124/best-notebooks/ mbCc3kXBaXQos5hHziSew9 Thu, 10 Feb 2022 18:49:40 +0000
<![CDATA[ Chic Puzzles for Adults That Will Help Ease Your Mind for a Bit ]]> There are two types of people: the ones who did puzzles in the early days of the pandemic and the others who would still...rather not. If you're in the former group and cherish a night in with a new set, invest in some more puzzles, like these chic picks, ahead. They pair great with a cold beer (or a glass of wine!) after a long day of staring at a screen.

Yogis, rejoice: This 50-piece yoga studio puzzle is a great gift for your yoga teacher when the holidays roll around or, you know, yourself. 

Printworks' "The Wonder of Nature Rocks" puzzle is no easy feat. If you're not a beginner puzzler (we all have to start somewhere!), invest in this 500-piece set and put together a beautiful picture of Antelope Canyon. 

Feeling nostalgic these days? Perfect for fashion lovers, JIGGY x Bloomingdale's puzzle—designed by Johanna Armstrong—is a picture of a bustling Bloomingdales storefront at the iconic 59th street location in NYC. 

Who amongst us doesn't love a good candy puzzle? Whip out this 1,000-piece (!) set and make sure to have plenty of Sour Patch Kids on deck to eat while you're putting it together. 

For a quick afternoon activity, enlighten yourself with this 70-piece cereal puzzle part of the brand's munchies collection. 

Rifle Paper Co.'s gorgeous designs have been transformed into this maps puzzle of Amsterdam, Athens, London, and more cities to temporarily satisfy your wanderlust. 

Brooklyn-based artist Shanée Benjamin’s "Community" 100-piece puzzle is an ode to the feminine form and a reminder of the sense of community we've been desperately missing throughout the pandemic.

Made for 'Schitt's Creek' super fans, this 500-piece puzzle celebrates David Rose in all of his glory.

Transport yourself to Japan with this 285-piece puzzle of The Site of Reversible Destiny in Yoro Park, Japan. 

Every creative will appreciate this Minted puzzle that looks like it belongs in an art gallery. I mean, those colors!

Sun's out, buns out! Prepare yourself for a hot girl summer starting with this "Buns Out" puzzle from Piecework. 

For those feeling nostalgic about wandering through the annual Met exhibitions, order this puzzle of Katsushika Hokusai's famous woodblock print, "Under the Great Wave at Kanagawa," that gives a taste of the museum's memorable artwork.

Puzzles of Color, a Black-owned family puzzle business created during the pandemic, highlights artists of color through its gorgeous puzzle designs. Case-in-point: This piece of art by artist Noland Anderson

Talk about a sign of the times. This "Nevertheless She Persisted" puzzle is made up of beautiful illustrations and quotes from powerful women throughout history, including Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafazi, and Angela Davis.

New Yorkers long for the iconic restaurants and activities that make NYC what it is. This two-sided puzzle of the city will remind you why it's still the best. 

Jiggy's 450-piece boobs puzzle, illustrated by Brooklyn-based illustrator Julia Heffernan, is exactly the kind of puzzle your friends will obsess over when they see it framed and hung up in your room.

This Viva la Vida Frida Kahlo puzzle is not for those of us currently feeling unmotivated—it consists of 1,000 pieces (!) that pays homage to Kahlo and her iconic art. 

Jonathan Adler's chic matte lip puzzle belongs on every coffee table once it's finished. 

Andy Warhol's double-sided soup can art is basically two puzzles in one. 

For a more challenging pick, dive into Springbok's 500-piece pencil pushers puzzle. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g32732158/best-puzzles-for-adults/ AMwD6oevajrLTB9m25on2U Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:46:44 +0000
<![CDATA[ 37 Stress-Relieving Gifts That Will Put Anyone at Ease ]]> 2021 was a rough, exhausting year. Between the overwhelming news cycle and living through a pandemic for the second year in a row, life has been turned upside down for just about everybody these days. Thankfully, affordable stress-relieving gifts are here to help us unwind and remind ourselves to focus on the joy that still exists in the world. Shop the best relaxing gifts for yourself and your loved ones, ahead.

Designer Jeremiah Brent launched sustainable limited-edition home essentials and cleaning products in collaboration with Grove Co. This incense set, which comes with a marble incense holder, incense sticks, nested marbly trays, and an organic cotton towel, will inspire the person in your life to create comforting and calming rituals after long work days.

Depending on who you speak to, completing a puzzle may not be the most ~stress relieving~ activity, but this "Be Curious Mini Mantras" pick is a happy medium. The chic 42-piece puzzle provides a dose of inspiration and encourages the puzzle-goer to focus their mind on one task rather than everything else going on in the world.

As they say, laughter is the best medicine. Play adult card game "What Do You Meme?" when you want to blow off some steam with a couple friends before you binge-watch 'And Just Like That' together. During the game, players match photo cards with caption cards, ultimately creating their own funny memes. (It can also be easily played over Zoom!)

What could possibly be more soothing than this scalp-reviving head massager? Wrong answers only.

If they'd never splurge on La Mer on their own, they'll be obsessed with this intensive revitalizing mask to use on their most stressful days. The directions encourage users to breathe in deeply three times while rubbing the mask on their face. 

Who doesn't love a great dessert after a stressful day? Send them one of Tate's signature gift baskets that includes chocolate chip cookies, double chocolate chip and walnut chocolate chip cookies, two chocolate brownies, a blondie, and a crumb cake.

Never underestimate the power of a great candle (or two) and accompanying room sprays during a relaxing night at home. 

If they've been holding out on attending workout classes in person, gift them this supportive yoga mat beloved by yogis so they can continue to do their workouts at home on a comfortable mat. 

Eucalyptus is known to create a calming presence. Use these eucalyptus steam shower cubes concentrated with cooling peppermint to relax your mind, clear your lungs, and focus on the present.

This game-changing calming spray will help a friend or family member achieve a better night's rest, thanks to the product's calming ingredients like lavender and vetiver.

After a long week of meetings and seemingly never-ending to-do lists, put on some Netflix and cozy up in this bestselling set of silk pajamas.

The next best thing to binge-watching 'The Real Housewives of New York' after a stressful day at work? Sitting down with this New York housewives coloring book and a glass of wine.

The key to a more calming space begins with plants...and a super cute vase to put them in.

Speaking of plants, these pre-planted fresh succulents will spark joy every time they look at them. This set from Lula's Garden is a perfect holiday gift.

This resistance band set will give them that extra boost of motivation they need to complete their workout, ultimately reducing stress levels.

Allow her to take care of her skin (and smell amazing!) with this Jo Malone peony & blush suede body and hand wash. 

There are few things that have the ability to lower one's stress level more than a pretty journal dedicated to setting daily intentions and crossing off an extensive to-do list. 

Instead of doom scrolling, whip out this luxurious Scrabble set—featuring a large rotating board with linen texture and raised-letter grid—and try not to beat your partner for the third time in a row.

There has never been a bad day that a bag of chocolate and pair of cute warm socks can't fix.

Yes, as we mentioned above, we still do puzzles over here. Gray Malin's double-sided, 500-piece puzzle is for the guaranteed puzzle lovers and a great distraction from the current state of the world.

There's no better way to unwind than taking a warm shower, wrapping a towel around your head, and rubbing moisturizing lotion all over your body. Epara's comforting body cream is an ideal gift for the fiscally-responsible woman who wouldn't dare spend the money on the luxurious lotion for herself (even though she secretly wants to).

Feel zen while using a gua sha that depuffs, contours, and stimulates healthy drainage and circulation for the skin. 

If they have a history of stress-baking, gift them the late Maya Angelou's 'Hallelujah! The Welcome Table: A Lifetime of Memories With Recipes,' where the acclaimed writer and civil rights activist shares recipes that impacted her life and the stories behind them.

The stressed out beauty lover in your life will appreciate a brand new silk pillowcase from Slip, which is known for its positive effects on skin and hair.

Any Diptyque candle hoarder will be obsessed with this glass Figuier hourglass diffuser, which releases warm notes of fig and fresh leaves, to create a calming setting in their home.

Rupi Kaur's latest collection of poetry, 'Home Body,' will inspire them to be at home within themselves. The book is filled with stories of love, loss, and, ultimately, growth.

Chakra Zulu sells crystal sets based on zodiac signs, putting a personal touch on a gift for someone in need of a good cleanse and energy recharge. The Florida-based, Black-owned shop has quite the following on Instagram.

The Box of Emotions consists of 80 colorful cards with mini essays on different emotions to help you process whatever you're feeling. If you're up to it, schedule a Zoom call with your best friend and go through them together.

Support Black artists like Akujixxv today and every day. This "Safe Space" print is instantly calming upon first glance, and will bring a sense of peace amidst the chaos every time you spot it in your living room.

This nifty sleep aid projects a little light on your bedroom ceiling for you to synchronize your breathing with—it'll expand and withdraw slowly, in line with recommend inhalation and exhalation times for maximum relaxation. After either eight or 20 minutes of this (you can pick which one), it'll gently turn itself off, leaving you to drift off.

Skip the shower, grab a book, and unwind with a glass of wine thanks to this swivel bath tray. No phones allowed.

Art therapists often use dough to help people manage anxiety and depression. If you can't afford a therapist right now, invest in your own therapy dough that will be there for you to squeeze after work. Choose from either lavender,- orange,- or peppermint oil-infused dough.

Vitruvi's organic lavender essential oil belongs on every person's nightstand. The oil's calming scent is packaged directly from French lavender petals and is best used right before bed to assist in getting a good night's sleep. While you're at it, take a look at the brand's gorgeous oil diffuser, which comes in 10 different colors, and its bundle set.

Need to unleash your rage? There's a dammit doll for that. Avoid the massive hole in the wall and slam one of these dolls against your bed instead. (That's literally what they're made for.) Utilize this pack of three by gifting two to your best friends and keeping one for yourself.

Samantha Irby's hilarious 'Wow, No Thank You' will help take your mind off of everything going in the world—namely, living in the middle of a pandemic—with her brilliant, relatable essays about, well, being a person today.

Weighted blankets: The trend that became a bedroom staple, thanks to their legitimate anxiety-fighting powers. This cozy, affordable version by YnM has 3,650 five-star reviews to its name on Amazon.

The follow up to the original 'The Little Book of Mindfulness' is practically a meditation class transformed into a mini book. It's a reminder to slow down, pay attention to your breathing, and be present. Take it one day at a time.  

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https://www.marieclaire.com/health-fitness/g25311899/best-stress-relief-gifts-ideas/ ZjPvWEcNveUBvBB8BqNFi6 Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:21:28 +0000
<![CDATA[ The Iconic Le Creuset Dutch Oven Is On Major Sale ]]> As someone who just started really learning how to cook over the last year or so, I have been absolutely lusting over purchasing a piece of Le Creuset cookware. The fancy enamel dutch ovens were the one constant among the many (many) cooking videos that I watched. Whether they were hiding in the background or were fully being used, I was aware of their presence. But the price of a single pot or pan always made me reconsider picking one up for myself—until now. The brand's classic Sauteuse Oven is currently on sale right now for Cyber Monday, so yes, now is the perfect time to buy.

The dutch oven is currently going for a price of $180 down from its original price of $300. It's not often that the luxe brand runs offers on its most coveted products! While I personally have my eye on the tropical blue-hued option, the pan is available in plenty of other colors including a signature red hue and a creamy white option. Also, did we mention the free shipping?

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https://www.marieclaire.com/food-cocktails/a38211716/le-creuset-amazon-sale/ DDao3axb4yz4vLr3fkpJ3j Mon, 29 Nov 2021 20:33:42 +0000
<![CDATA[ This Casper Weighted Blanket Changed How I Sleep—And It's On Major Sale at Nordstrom ]]> Maybe it’s because it gets dark in my apartment in the early afternoon these days, but I’m finding that my anxiety has been off the charts recently—especially at night. Worse than just feeling stressed before I drift off, I've found that it’s actually been affecting my sleep patterns. Or at least it was affecting my sleep patterns—before I picked up this 10-Pound Weighted Blanket & Two Pillows Set from Casper, that is! Never in my life have I experienced such a dramatic change so quickly.

While I bought mine at full price, you can actually snag it for (much) less right now, as a part of Nordstrom’s massive ongoing Black Friday Deals sale. It’s currently priced at $260, down from an original price of $289. The Nordstrom-exclusive three-piece set includes the lightest iteration of Casper’s cult-favorite Weighted Blanket alongside two Original Casper Pillows, so it’s the key to getting way better sleep this winter season and beyond. 

If you’ve never purchased a weighted blanket before, Casper recommends opting for one that clocks in at roughly 10 percent of your body weight for the most comfortable experience. It's meant to feel like a hug, not like you're being crushed. Nordstrom also sells two heavier iterations of the set on its site—a 15-pound option and a 20-pound option—so you can find the one that works best for you. All of the sets include Casper’s blanket in a steely gray colorway, which means that it will coordinate perfectly with the rest of your bedding.

Actually, no one will ever know that you use a weighted blanket at first glance. Casper's sleek quilted version was actually inspired by sporty outerwear and is designed to evenly distribute weight across the entire blanket for optimal sleep. And if you’re the type of person who tends to feel hot at night, don't worry about adding yet another, albeit heavier layer onto your bed—Casper’s weighted blankets feature an ultra-breathable cotton layer that supports better airflow and actually keeps you cool in the process.

And I can't forget about the pillows! This set features Casper’s Original iteration, which features the brand’s signature pillow-in-pillow design. They actually respond to your body as you move around during the night and adjust themselves without waking you. Rather than deciding between a firm pillow and a softer one, you get the best of both worlds with one easy purchase. Each of the pillows is also filled with a clump-resistant down alternative that feels just like the real stuff and features a 100 percent cotton cover created using a woven design that makes them feel cool to the touch. You won’t have to flip your pillows around to find the cold side ever again, I promise.

With the holidays coming up, I know that I'm technically obligated to let you know that this set would make a great gift. If you’ve got a person on your list who just moved into their first big solo apartment, started a new high-pressure job, or is just generally anxious, they would love this set. But, if you want to just buy this for yourself, go right ahead. Your future self will thank you.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/Casper-weighted-blanket-pillows-set-nordstrom-sale/ 8gJ6vt7G2iVdhEk2v2huWB Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:13:58 +0000
<![CDATA[ Instant Pot's Instant Vortex Mini Is On Sale on Amazon for Just $50 ]]> If you were on the internet at all over the last couple of years, you know that everyone suddenly became obsessed with their air fryer. And while I’m not one to get excited over a new gadget—much less one designed to be used in the kitchen—seeing all of my friends talking about their favorite recipes definitely piqued my interest. I wasn’t alone: The do-it-all device became the go-to gadget for skilled home chefs and cooking newbies alike. It even earned a spot on my own countertop. If you somehow managed to avoid buying one back when they were going viral, I have good news: Instant Pot’s Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Air Fryer Mini is on sale on Amazon right now for Black Friday.

While it originally retails for $60, the black and white versions of this adorable two-quart air fryer are currently going for $50. And, thanks to Amazon’s Prime shipping feature, it will arrive at your front door well before Christmas rolls around. This will give you plenty of time to learn how to actually use it—and to figure out how it can help you make all of the side dishes that you're in charge of this year. Because let's be honest: Why would you break out the pots and pans if you don’t even have to? Instant Pot’s four-in-one gadget not only acts as an air fryer, it can also broil, roast, and reheat all of your favorite foods, too. Leftovers will never be the same, I promise. As in, you’ll want to eat them instead of ordering in.

Instant Pot Instant Vortex Mini | $60 $50View Deal

Just like the original Instant Pot, the Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Air Fryer is surprisingly easy to use. It gives you a range of customizable cooking programs to match whatever food mood you’re in, so you can just set it and forget it on your busiest weeknights. It even connects to the Instant Pot phone app, so say hello to more than 1,500 new recipes! You can now whip up perfectly-crispy chicken wings and heat up a cinnamon bun for dessert without having to turn on your oven. The air fryer is also actually designed to use 95 percent less oil than other cooking techniques, thanks to Instant Pot's Evencrisp Technology.

But if you’re wary of adding yet another tool to your space, know that the Instant Vortex was designed with small kitchens in mind. Not only is it meant to replace four different appliances—a major win if you live in a tiny studio apartment, as I do—but this two-quart air fryer is only nine inches wide and 11 inches high. This means it can fit on just about any countertop, or can easily be stored in cabinets. In the more than 400 five-star reviews, several users claim that this air fryer is also simple to clean, so I promise that you won’t be stuck scrubbing and soaking it long after you’ve put everything else into the dishwasher.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/Instant-pot-instant-vortex-Plus-air-fryer-sale-amazon/ 9iUxGsRKAKC46M6ky8Z6qE Fri, 19 Nov 2021 23:08:16 +0000
<![CDATA[ 13 Luxury Advent Calendars to Get You in the Holiday Spirit ]]> Even if you don't celebrate Christmas (*raises hand*), it's hard not to enjoy a great advent calendar. Beauty advent calendars are the most popular these days (think: sample lipsticks, face masks, and perfumes to open and enjoy across the season), but an increasing number of brands are creating fahncy advent calendars in the fashion, food, and lifestyle spaces as well. Below, we've rounded up the most luxurious advent calendars, featuring everything from candles to jewelry to wine, to treat your loved ones—or yourself!—to this year. A fun hack: If you're looking to check off multiple people on your holiday gift list, buy one advent calendar and select a couple gifts from it to send to each of 'em, then keep the rest for yourself.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g34712186/luxury-advent-calendars/ kFwQDkwiHrnrtuztFQvt3i Fri, 19 Nov 2021 20:13:46 +0000
<![CDATA[ The 46 Best Tech Gifts for Everyone On Your List ]]> You don't have to be a techie to appreciate a great tech gift. With modern technology moving at a breakneck speed, there's a new piece of technology for everyone—whether the people on your list are plant parents, dog parents, makeup junkies, wine lovers, or are passionate about something totally different. And if you’ve got a bunch of different people with different interests on your list, finding the perfect gift can feel damn near impossible. Luckily, we took all of the hard work out of the gift-searching hunt by rounding up the best-ever tech gifts to shop in 2023, from some seriously genius finds to splurge-worthy skincare tools that they won't be able to get enough of. In short, prepare to be everyone's favorite person this year.

For the Gamer 

Yes, the Nintendo Switch is still a must-buy for this holiday season. This adorable Animal Crossing: New Horizons edition Switch is great for those gamers on your list. 

For The Homebody 

A heated blanket like this one will make any night spent on the couch feel a little cozier. It has three different heat settings and comes in a beautiful marble pattern that will match your home’s aesthetic. 

For The Girl Who's Phone is Always Dying 

This tiny lipstick-shaped charger promises an 80 percent charge, so. it's great if someone on your list is constantly walking around with a phone that's set to Low Power Mode. 

For The Beauty Guru 

They'll never do their makeup in bad lighting ever again. This mirror from Danielle Creations lets you choose from three brightness levels so you can achieve the perfect look. 

For the Forgetful

They'll never lose track of their AirPods ever again thanks to this cute floral case from Rifle Paper Co. that comes outfitted with a massive clasp. You can even choose from a few different patterns to find their next favorite gadget. 

For The Dental Hygiene-Obsessed 

This toothbrush from Quip actually tracks how you brush, thanks to a handy Bluetooth-enabled app on your phone. The app even features a Good Habit Dashboard that shows you how you're brushing—and how to improve. Brush better and earn in-app rewards! 

For Teens

A keyboard and mouse has absolutely no business being as cute as Logitech's new retro-style POP keyboard ($100) and mouse set ($40). Perfect for the TikTok generation, or anyone who just needs a little joy injected into their workday.

For The Skincare Newbie 

This gift set from Foreo includes the best-selling LUNA Mini 2 and UFO Mini 2 alongside an Acai Berry Mask and a foaming cleanser from the brand. It's great for someone who has no clue what to do when it comes to getting their skin perfectly clean at night.  

For the Music Lover

Apple has unveiled new editions of the HomePod Mini in three cute colors: yellow, blue, and orange. The sound is crisp and flawless, plus they can use their HomePod to talk to Siri and control their other smart accessories.

For the Self-Care Fan 

Upgrade their skincare routine with this at-home facial steamer that promises spa-level results. It comes with five skincare tools for the complete facial experience, including a blackhead and blemish extractor. 

For Your Gen Z Cousin 

This dreamy pastel phone case from Sonix is the perfect gift for your younger cousin who is constantly on their phone—or who is prone to snapping the odd mirror selfie. 

For the Constant Traveler 

This cordless styler from ghd is great for that person on your list who is constantly on the go. Whether she's using it from a far-away hotel room or in the comfort of her own apartment, her hair will always look on point. 

For the Music Fan 

These ain't your normal black sunglasses. They're outfitted with Bose-quality speakers so you can listen to your music without having to use earbuds. The best part? The people next to you won't be able to hear a thing. 

For The Anti-Aging Enthusiast 

This LED Light Therapy Mask from CurrentBody is designed to actually fit your face better than other options on the market. It combines Red and near Infra-Red Light to rejuvenate the skin. 

For The Skincare Clean Freak

This vibrating cleansing device from Buttah Skin makes your skin feel amazing thanks to the use of 10,000 pulses per minute. It's also made from medical-grade, antimicrobial silicone to make skin look and feel its best. 

For The Light Sleeper

If you have someone on your list who can't seem to catch up on their beauty sleep, this tiny sound machine is perfect. It emits white noise that will soothe them to sleep with the push of a button. 

For The Girl Who's Always Going to Events

This tool from Shani Darden targets crow's feet and nasolabial lines using sound wave technology for a younger, firmer-looking appearance. It actually fights wrinkles from deep within the skin—2.4 inches, to be exact!

For The Busybody 

Who needs wires, anyway? This charging station will make any room feel a little more high-tech. 

For the Apple Watch Wearer 

This luxe stainless steel Apple Watch band from LAGOS will turn your piece of tech into something of beauty. 

For The At-Home Som 

This tool makes opening your next bottle of wine even easier, so it's safe to say that it's a must-buy for the holiday season. 

For the Sports Fan 

Now the massive soccer fan on your list can play The Beautiful Game anytime they want—even at night. 

For The Foodie

This spiralizer from KitchenAid will let your favorite vegetarian or vegan chef make oodles of zoodles in minutes. 

For The Coffee Drinker

If you're shopping for a borderline coffee addict, give them the gift of hot coffee all day long. This best-selling mug warmer from Ember lets you choose the exact temperature that you would like your drink to be kept at while you work. 

For The Commuter

If they're always running around, gift them this protective (and cute!) laptop case from Baggu. 

For the Beauty Pro 

If you have a skincare junkie on your list, they'll love this beauty fridge. Keeping products cool can help them last longer and perform better, so it's an essential for anyone who hoards their products.  

For the Phone Lover

Keep your cell clean (and powered up!) in one chic step. This cup from Lexon magically sanitizes and charges your phone at the same time.

For the List-Maker 

If they're obsessed with their to-do list, gift them an upgraded version with this Moleskine digital notebook and pen set. It automatically transfers they'll notes to your computer so they'll never lose track. 

For the Green Thumb 

If they've been dreaming of having a garden but don't quite have the space, buy them this indoor herb garden planter. 

For the Grandparents

If you don't live near your grandparents, make them feel a little closer to home with this digital picture frame. They'll be able to keep up with your latest adventures from afar.

For the Fitness Guru 

Take the gym home with this balance board. It's designed for all skill levels so the entire family can get involved. 

For the Photographer 

Now, they can hang any photo they want on their bedroom wall. They can simply connect the Sprocket to their phone with Bluetooth and get printing. 

For the Long-Distance Couple

Doing long-distance can feel impossible. This set of lamps lights up when one person touches it, so they'll always know someone is thinking of them. 

For the Disorganized Friend 

Got someone on your list who seems to always be losing something? This set from Tile will make the perfect gift. They'll never be without their house keys or phone ever again. 

For the Cardio Queen 

If they love working out, they've probably been dying for a Theragun. Now they can work out for longer without feeling sore. 

For the Self-Care Obsessed 

Self-care is essential, especially in the cold winter months. This diffuser blends in with the rest of their decor and will fill the room with their favorite scent. 

For the Viral Beauty Fan 

If they've been on TikTok at all in the last few months, they'll have seen this tool from Revlon. It's like a blowout in one easy step. 

For the New Homeowners 

Buying a home is scary, but keeping it safe can seem even scarier. This camera from Google blends in with rest of your decor to monitor activity inside your home and warn of you of any suspicious activity. 

For the Guy Who Still Loves Wired Headphones

For the guy who never stops listening to reggae, gift him these sound-enhancing headphones from House of Marley.

For the Beginner

This set from T3 is like a good hair day in one step. The three interchangeable  barrels makes styling your hair super easy.   

For the Binge-Watcher 

Gift the cable-cutter in your life a seamless and sleek TV experience with an Apple TV.

For the Wannabe Podcaster 

For the person in your life who's always talking about starting a podcast, give them a push in the right direction with this mic.

For The Perfect Host 

This is the top-rated speaker on Amazon, and for good reason. It's small but mighty, equipped with Bluetooth, and has 20 hours of play time. 

For the Smoothie Lover 

If they love smoothies in the morning and don't already have a bullet blender, what are they doing? They'll be thanking you on their busiest mornings. 

For the Music Obsessee 

Let wires be a thing of the past this Christmas. These on-ear headphones are the perfect travel companion, and have stellar sound quality. 

For the Clean Freak 

How often do they actually wash their go-to water  bottle? This one from LARQ takes the stress out of staying hydrated. 

For the Self-Care Guy 

This cordless beard trimmer is the perfect gift for your dad, brother, or boyfriend. All they have to do is adjust the sharpness using the built-in Bevel Dial for a close shave in the shower. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g34778124/tech-gifts/ qAoGYhe3dcuDRF7VYG2fnD Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:17:53 +0000
<![CDATA[ Gifts Under $20 That Are Meaningful and Affordable ]]> While this year has certainly been a drag, the good news is that gift-giving is still very much alive and well—especially since we haven't been able to show our love and appreciation for each other in person. If you're looking for holiday gifts on a budget, allow us to present to you 20 gifts under $20, ahead, that are cute, affordable, and meaningful. (Yes, it's possible.) Thanks us later.

Breathe. A simple mantra we can all use these days placed on a gorgeous 8" x 10" print from writer, artist, and musician Morgan Harper Nichols.

Better days are coming! Give them something to look forward to with Papier's customizable 2022 calendar featuring photos of your favorite memories together. 

With voting rights under attack across the country, now more than ever we need to continue to fight for free and fair elections. These "vote" gym socks benefit Fair Fight Action, a national voting rights organization founded by Stacey Abrams doing just that.

If they're a coffee lover, help fuel their days with this bag of La Colombe FEED Heritage Blend coffee beans. The purchase will provide five meals to kids in schools around the world. 

Sometimes the best gifts come in the form of a heartfelt note on a beautiful card from eco-friendly stationary brand, Aya Paper Co. 

Tell them to dive into Rupi Kaur's Home Body—the poet, author, and illustrator's latest collection of poetry—as a reminder of just how beautiful and powerful they truly are.  

Alexa, play "Rainbow" by Kacey Musgraves. The singer's cute beanies come in three different colors and happen to be a great way to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. That is, after donating to LGBTQ+ groups like GLAAD and the National Center for Transgender Equality.

Not me romanticizing the early days of quarantine! This "you're doing great" puzzle is a much-needed reminder these days.

The USPS is still under attack. Purchase a package of stamps for your stationary-loving BFF, or your politically active friend who is sending out letters to residents reminding them about the November 2 elections across the country. 

Show them you care about their health with this HidrateSpark smart water bottle that tracks how much water they consume in a day, thanks to its bluetooth-equipped technology. If you think they'd prefer the latest water bottle, you can give them a gift card to put towards the newest one instead. 

Summer camp 🤝 pandemic. Now that masks are a part of our daily lives, they'll appreciate this DIY face mask lanyard kit that can also be used for sunglasses. 

Those who have the privilege of working from home will enjoy burning this limited-edition mini candle from Voluspa as a source of comfort during the fourth Zoom meeting of the day. It looks perfect on any coffee table and, you know, actually smells good.

Consider making a donation on their behalf to the NAACP to help fight against racial injustice. No amount is too small, and it may encourage them to make monthly donations of their own. 

If they can't stop posting about their Spotify Wrapped playlist, gift them a custom music album cover plaque of their top-played song as proof that they made it through 2021. Or, you know, you can just stick to a custom plaque of their favorite song of all time. 

If you've read Ibram X. Kendi's How to Be an Antiracist, you'll probably want to share his brilliance with someone special in your life. For those who haven't read it yet, think about purchasing two copies—one for yourself and one for a family member or friend.

Independent bookstores are struggling right now. Purchasing a Books Are Magic tote for the book lover in your life is a great way to help keep bookstores alive without the pressure of picking out the perfect book for them. 

"I'll tell you how I'm doing. Not well, bitch!" Be the good friend you are and get The Real Housewives of New York-obsessed person in your life this 16-page, hand-illustrated coloring book. It'll help pass the time on the weekends for those of us who are still quarantining. 

Poker game or therapy session? Speaking of passing the time, level up your playing card game with this pretty 52-card deck from Morgan Harper Nichols that includes words of affirmation.

Considering she probably hasn't been to the gym since March, she'll appreciate this cute set of resistance bands for her Zoom workouts.

The Earth needs our help right now. A great first step to living a more sustainable lifestyle is by using reusable straws, like these stainless steel ones. They're chic enough for that post-pandemic cocktail party they'll have too. 

Inspire them to carve out time for self-care with Frank Body's coffee scrub. Blended with coffee, cold-pressed sweet almond oil, and vitamin E, the exfoliator will leave their skin glowing and help alleviate any lingering breakouts and scars.

Gift this minimalist ceramic cup as a pencil holder, flower vase, or a makeup brush holder. It can serve as a much-needed home for their endless hair ties too.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g34838629/gifts-under-20/ 5aKHCwPmgAbJaUfcFiCGUc Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:29:13 +0000
<![CDATA[ 26 Coffee Table Books to Liven Up Your Living Room ]]> Although we've been spending more time in our homes than we could have ever imagined, it has also given us a great excuse to liven up our decor. Chic coffee table books can help us do just that, coupled with a luxurious candle that maybe—just maybe!—will help us feel something after this mind-numbing couple of years. Whether you actually place the books on a coffee table (after reading them, of course), use them as a prop for your laptop, or plan on purchasing one as a holiday gift this season, allow us to present an excellent array of coffee table books spanning across fashion, art, travel, and culture, ahead.

For the World Traveler 

Gray Malin: The Essential Collection is a gorgeous coffee table book featuring a decade of work from the renowned photographer, including never-before-seen photos shot in destinations across the world. The unsigned version retails for $54.

For the Stylish Woman in Your Life

Denmark-based label Ganni's debut coffee table book is all about the stylish women of the future who mean business, otherwise known as #GANNIGirls.

For the Water Sign

If you or someone you know loved watching Lady Bird, allow us to suggest purchasing this Lady Bird screenplay book. It's part of A24 Books' series that celebrates how notable directors brought their films from script to screen. 

For the Artist

Frida fans, unite! This tome features the Mexican artist's paintings that beautifully captures her life's work. 

For the Vintage Photographer

Embrace the history (and future!) of polaroid photography in this mini coffee table book that celebrates the art form and even includes polaroids from Andy Warhol. 

For the Rihanna Stan

Expect the compliments to pour in as soon as your house guests see this massive work of art—a stunning 504-page visual autobiography of Rihanna's life—across your coffee table. Nobody does it better than Rihanna!

For the Design Aficionado

Behold: a celebration of women designers from the early 20th century to today in Woman Made

For the Changemaker 

Featuring words of wisdom from 100 global leaders including Malala Yousafzai, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Vital Voices is a culmination of insight from powerful women alongside beautiful portraits painted by Gayle Kabaker.

For the Movie Buff

The Moonlight screenplay book is part of A24 Books' series that celebrates how notable directors brought their films from script to screen. Immerse yourself in writer and director Barry Jenkins's award-winning talent, complete with the Moonlight screenplay, Jenkins's acceptance speeches, and a prologue written by Frank Ocean. 

For the Feminist

Name a better gift than a collection of portraits of icons like Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, and Dolly Parton. I'll wait.

For the Photographer

Tyler Mitchell, who photographed Beyoncé's iconic September 2018 Vogue cover, published his first monograph, I Can Make You Feel Good. Through his work, he aims "to visualize what a Black utopia looks like or could look like," he wrote on Instagram. "People say utopia is never achievable but I love photography’s possibility of allowing me to dream and make that dream become very real." 

For the Traveler 

Miami Beach is a love letter to Miami, complete with gorgeous photos and anecdotes dedicated to the culture and history of the vibrant city. 

For the Art Connoisseur

For the art connoisseurs who miss strolling around New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art, the museum's Art =: Discovering Infinite Connections in Art History, which includes more than 800 artworks from The Met, is the next best thing. 

For the Royal Enthusiast

Veteran journalist Elizabeth Holmes has transformed her popular social-media series into a delightful book analyzing the sartorial choices of the four most fashionable British royals in recent memory.

For the Creative

Kimberly Drew and Jenna Wortham's Black Futures centers on the overarching question, "What does it mean to be Black and alive right now?" Through a collection of photos, essays, memes, poetry, lyrics, and more, the book exemplifies what Black creators are bringing to the world today. Start anywhere in the book—as the authors note, there's no beginning, middle, or end.

For the Vintage Fashion Enthusiast 

The updated trilogy celebrates the House of Chanel in all of its fashion, jewelry, and beauty glory. 

For the Cancer Sun Sign in Your Life

Experience the print version of Brandon Stanton's popular Humans of New York Instagram account. Rather than focusing on New York residents, the book documents stories about life, love, and loss from humans across the globe. It's a necessary reminder that our humanity is what ties us together. 

For the Style Maven

A re-creation of Andria Lo & Valerie Luu's popular Instagram accountChinatown Pretty captures the street style of the most fashionable elders in the Chinatowns of San Francisco, Oakland, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and Vancouver. 

For the Dolly Fan

Celebrate the icon that Dolly Parton is with her new book, Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, that reveals the stories behind 175 of her most popular songs with never-before-seen images from the singer's archives.  

For the Queer Person in Your Life

Photographer Magnus Hastings celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community by allowing his subjects to pose how they want to be seen, publishing heartfelt statements about their identity alongside the photos. 

For the Naomi Campbell Stan

Here, an ode to the legendary supermodel Naomi Campbell. Originally published in 2016, this updated edition of Naomi looks back at the model's life and career from the '80s to today. The best part? It comes in two volumes: one with images from her most famous shoots, and the other an assortment of magazine covers and ads with notes written by Campbell herself. 

For the Jewelry Collector 

If you've obsessively googled the stories behind the Queen's tiaras at least once in your life, you'll appreciate Town & Country Editor-in-Chief Stellene Volandes's Jewels That Made History. The tome showcases iconic jewels from the Cleopatra era all the way to today on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Lady Gaga.

For the 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Fan

Fans of RuPaul's Drag Race can expect nothing short of hilarious commentary and incredible beauty looks from drag stars Trixie Mattel and Katya in their ultimate guide to modern womanhood. 

For the Activist 

Whoever said coffee table books are reserved for hard covers should make an exception for Zanele Muholi, a collection of work from the acclaimed South African visual activist. Their art, which documents the lives of Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people, is currently on display at London’s Tate Modern.

For the Space Nerd

Celebrating 20 years of the International Space Station (ISS), photographer Roland Miller and Italian astronaut Paolo Nespoli compiled captivating photos from inside the ISS. If you love all things space, be sure to read Marie Claire's Women & Space package.

For the Fashion Lover

Fashion designer Naeem Khan has dressed everyone from Michelle Obama to Beyoncé. In this chic tome, the designer takes us through his career with illustrious photos of his red carpet dresses, bridal gowns, and more.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/g34859729/best-coffee-table-books/ xtggsYuwGwxcaxPYaxbcFS Wed, 17 Nov 2021 12:46:40 +0000
<![CDATA[ Our Place's Always Pan Is On Major Sale Right Now at Nordstrom ]]> When I moved into my first solo apartment earlier this year, I immediately made a Pinterest board of how I would love each corner of my teeny studio to look. I completed the kitchen-themed board first and filled it with images of green peel-and-stick tiles and images of Our Place's cult-favorite Always Pan. If you don't know it by name, you've probably seen it in the kitchens of many of your favorite influencers—and it's currently on sale on Nordstrom right now.

This pan landed a top spot on my Pinterest for a reason: This one handy pan serves as a nonstick fry and sauté pan, a steamer, a skillet,  and a saucepan in your kitchen, making it ideal for someone who doesn't have a ton of storage space, or who hates doing dishes. The set also includes a wooden spoon—and the pan's handle also doubles as a spoon rest—so say goodbye to having messy stained countertops after a long evening of cooking. While the pan usually retails for $145, it's currently on sale for $99 as a part of Nordstrom's massive early Black Friday sale. Yes, you read that correctly. The impossible-to-keep-in-stock, Instagram-famous pan is majorly discounted right now.

While it's not often that I fangirl over any product these days, much less a pan,  I think I'll have to make an exception in this case. Our Place’s Always Pan is so cute and versatile, you'll want to serve all of your yummy dishes straight out of it in the future rather than you know, on actual plates. You can buy it in the dusk shade of blue above, or in classic black, a peachy color called Spice, a sage green, or in a red shade called Terracotta. 

This pan was actually created with small spaces in mind, so it’s specifically designed to do it all without taking up a ton of space once you’re done with it. You can, for instance, drain your pasta directly from the pan after you boil it without needing to grab any other tools. The nonstick capabilities are what really made the Always Pan go viral, though—users who left glowing reviews on Nordstrom’s site claim to not need any extra oil when cooking things like eggs, so it’s also great if you’re a kitchen newbie. Their only note? You can’t throw in the dishwasher. But cleaning it should be a breeze in the sink given the fact that nothing tends to stick to the bottom! 

In short, if you're looking to buy one brand-new thing for your kitchen this holiday season—or if, like me, you just moved in somewhere new and fancy!—you need this pan in your life. Here's to wowing all of your friends and family when you host your annual Friendsgiving at your apartment this year. And here’s to not having to do a ton of pesky dishes once they all leave at the end of the night. 

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https://www.marieclaire.com/home/always-pan-nordstrom-sale/ R4AjVA86tBwuxE7PjPgHmk Tue, 16 Nov 2021 18:08:03 +0000
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https://www.marieclaire.com/newsletter/ PkQZMzgZDYR6wCQuDjnLGD Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:45:53 +0000
<![CDATA[ Deep Dives ]]> https://www.marieclaire.com/deep-dives/ xNKn467jQuBeXwVdV7pHXS Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:26:53 +0000