Welcome to our series showcasing some of our Marie Claire editors' fashion and beauty purchases this month. You'll discover the seasonal basics anchoring our wardrobes and the beauty buys that have us reconsidering our routines.
With love officially in the air, there’s no better time than now to get some last-minute Valentine’s Day shopping out of the way. Here at Marie Claire, we’re doing just that. Fashion Features Editor Emma Childs has fallen head over heels for Maison Margiela’s leather Tabi boots, which rank high on her list of favorite shoes. Senior News Editor Halie LeSavage just treated herself to a pair of investment-worthy silk boxers from Araks. Meanwhile, Beauty Director Hannah Baxter can’t live without Sunday Edition’s Ash Candle—which has become her date night must-have.
Whether you're deciding on a gift for your partner, best friend, or yourself, allow this hand-picked curation to inspire you.
"As classic as a bold red lip is for Valentine’s day, there’s something so romantic about a dewy, berry-tinged pout. The tinted balm from Sulwhasoo glides on gorgeously, creating that 'my lips but better' look while making your lips actually feel better, too. The packaging doubles as a decorative object, which is the cherry on top for any design-motivated shoppers."—Lucia Tonelli, Associate Director of Social Media
"Maison Margiela's horse-hoof Tabi shoes are not everyone's cup of tea—but as a latent horse girl, they are very much mine. I already own a pair of split-toe satin ballet flats but recently bought these gorgeous cracked leather Tabi boots in gunmetal leather as a pre-Valentine's Day treat to myself. On my very first wear around the block, a stranger stopped me in the street to ooh-ed and ahh-ed over them—which, given the ego boost, effectively made them my new favorite shoe I own."—Emma Childs, Fashion Features Editor
"Who doesn't love a dainty Galentine's gift? This year, I’m really trying to find my personal style and think outside the box when it comes to my accessory choices, and this Sierra x En Route necklace is the perfect addition to my wardrobe. It features amazing quality fabric that feels great around my neck, and the bows also add a feminine touch to any outfit."—Ashlyn Delaney, Associate Social Media Editor
"Since I didn't click fast enough to shop J.Crew's collab with Araks, I treated myself to an OG pair of the brand's silk boxers. They're the ideal piece for lounging around at home with a good book and a glass of wine—which is how I'll be spending a solo V-day this year."—Halie LeSavage, Senior News Editor (Fashion Beauty)
"I have a candle burning in my apartment the second the workday is finished, so my collection is quite robust at this point. This black plum, rose, and sandalwood scent is absolutely divine and I love the chic black ceramic jar. I lit it for a recent date night and it was an instant hit to set the vibe."—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director
"I've been making a conscious effort to elevate my jewelry collection, and since I'm my own Valentine this year, I thought there was no better "treat-yourself" gift than diamonds. This dainty ring is the perfect addition to my daily stack—it adds extra sparkle without going overboard, so I don't have to put much effort into styling it. The fact that it doesn't cost an arm and a leg for natural diamonds and 14K gold makes it all the better."—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
"I generally have dry skin, but my lips get especially chapped in the winter—and the only product that works for me is Vaseline’s Lip Therapy. I have been running through mine and seriously can’t stop stocking up. I find that the original version is the most moisturizing, but sometimes the tinted Rosy Lips rendition is nice when you want to give your lips a little color but also keep them hydrated. It should come in handy, in case Cupid presents me with someone to kiss this Valentine’s!"—Sadie Bell, Senior Culture Editor
"Delectable shades of cherry red are poised to take over this season, and given that Valentine’s Day is around the corner, it's the perfect time to take this fiery hue for a spin. I’ll be doing so with Black Suede Studio's pointy leather pumps. which I plan to style alongside a little black dress and a glossy handbag."—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor
"When Princess Kate endorses a brand...well, enough said. I've treated myself to numerous pieces from Welsh-based small business Spells of Love over the years, but these blue topaz and pearl drop earrings are my newest favorite. I plan to wear them on repeat with my blue floral dresses this summer, but they'll be just as special with a cozy cashmere sweater on Valentine's Day."—Kristin Contino, Senior Royal and Celebrity Editor
"Vanilla perfumes are everywhere, so it takes something unique to impress me nowadays. Henry Rose's recently launched Dave has won me over with its sweet floral blend. Sure, it has all of the decadence you would expect a perfume with vanilla bean Chantilly, cocoa shell, and tonka bean to have, but tangerine and pink pepper give it a cool twist. I’ve been wearing it nonstop since receiving it in January, it’s that good."—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
"I am obsessed with this moisturizer (and I think it is a great Valentine's Day gift for your love). It’s super light but spreads really well—two pumps are all I need for my whole face (and neck). I love that it doesn’t really have a scent, and it’s so gentle on my skin. It absorbs quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings when you need to move straight to sunscreen and makeup. I like the immediate rehydration it provides. Occasionally, I’ll even dab a bit around my eye area during the day for an instant revitalizing boost."—Haobin Ye, Former Interim Art Director