Locked Up

Ok so I didn't actually get locked-up over the Christmas break.
But if ever I were to be locked-away, please oh-please use this Hermès contraption. As we are well aware nothing signifies pure, unadulterated luxury more than absolutely anything Hermès - this limited edition refillable atomizer is the perfect example.

Modeled after the iconic 'H' padlock, the atomizer can be filled with one of four signature Hermès smells (of which Parfum des Merveilles is my favorite). Oh and it's also travel-sized.

*For more information and to purchase, click here.

Monday Moisturizer

We have all heard whispers of the famous Creme de la Mer, its miraculous moisture and of-course how J.Lo supposedly smothers her entire body in the stuff.

Sure its price range makes it exclusive, even aspirational - but something so coveted must boast miraculous benefits. I say yes, because on this topic I know my gel from my balm. 

I use the Gel Creme - one of the brand's more lightweight textures. Applied sparingly using the provided spatula (isn't everything better with a spatula!) it leaves skin feeling hydrated, supple and dewy.

How's that for Monday moisture?

*The complete La Mer collection is available to purchase online. For more information about the Gel Creme click here.

Aesop Futurist Intensity Gift Set

Futurism was easily the oddest thing I ever encountered during my Art History studies (and that's saying something).

I remember thinking the whole thing would be all Back To The Future-ish and therefore intrinsically fun. Au contraire! In fact (and much to my disappointment) Marty McFly, time travel and a DeLorean DMC-12 did not factor at all. Instead extreme confusion, disorder and exceptionally odd 'poems' featuring loud jolting noises did. Rather appropriately the movement that promised to modernize 20th century Italian culture through rebelliousness, inventiveness and unabashed eccentricity left me (and much of Italy) confused. Very confused. That is until now.

Yes friends, Aesop has saved the day again. How? The art-minded skincare brand has created six gift kits that pay homage to the ground-breaking (i.e. WTF-inducing) Futurist language, art and typography. While each kit targets different concerns (academically and cosmetically) I was drawn to the 'Intensity' set. Inspired by the vibrant paintings of the movement (personal favorites include works by Umberto Boccioni and Giacomo Balla) and crafted specifically for the active man, the Intensity kit offers a trio of formulations that are ideal for post-workout purification (which, let's face it, we all absolutely need). Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion soothes, nourishes and offers excellent moisture while any unwanted odors are neutralized by Aesop's signature spray Déodorant (featuring Vetiver notes - ahhhh!). And finally there's the low-foaming, incredibly invigorating Coriander Seed Body Cleanser which, if you must know, leaves skin conditioned and refreshed. Sounds good? It is.

- Image courtesy of Aesop. Watch Aesop's interpretation of the Futurist Manifesto and shop the products mentioned, below.

Sweet Smoke

Gifting fragrance has always been entirely hit-or-miss.

Let's face it, people get personal about their 'signature' scent - making it near impossible to successfully gift (even if you love it and are convinced they will too). 

All I have to say is thank god for Tom Ford's Private Blend collection. I was recently given the Tobacco Vanille and it is with smokey-sweet enthusiasm that I report I am a fan. A real fan - think crazed football fan, OK? Perhaps it's because I love the smell of burning cigars, or maybe it's because I can't get over the bottle. Inspired by a chess piece, it looks superb on my shelf - check-mate indeed.

At anyrate I'm into it, and you should be too.

*Tom Ford Private Blend Fragrances (including Tobacco Vanille) are available to purchase online at Neiman Marcus. Click here for details.

Halloween How To: Edward Scissorhands

It's the 11th hour and you're stuck. Worry not! Tim Burton exists for one simple reason; to inspire you every Halloween.
There are many things to thank Mr. Burton for (Beetlejuice, Mars Attacks!, and let's not forget the sheer awesomeness that is Sleepy Hollow), but Edward Scissorhands tops my list any day. Why? Vintage Johnny and Winona wrapped-up in an epic love story about a hairdresser (basically, right?) can't be topped. It's really that simple.  

Let's start from the top and work our way down. Know this: hair is everything. Either you spray yours black, or grab a wig and chop it to length (get into character, you're supposed to be good with your hands, right?). In terms of product we want to go thick, wild and promote extreme texture. Start by applying a dry shampoo to your roots - this will ensure volume from the scalp up. Alterna's Cleanse Extend Translucent option is ideal, partly because it smells like bamboo leaf which almost definitely means you'll end-up attracting a panda (which could be fun). Bumble and Bumble's Thickening Hairspray is your next step. Remember we're building volume here so apply generously. Finish the whole thing and achieve those clumpy strands with Jack Black's Body-Building Hair Gel. Finally seal the deal with your hairdryer. 

Don't be daunted by the makeup part. Keep it basic with Kryolan's Aqua Color in white. I'd recommend cleansing first, probably with Fresh's Soy Face Cleanser, followed by a healthy application of La Mer's The Concentrate (which will ensure easy application). Once you've painted your entire face white using a makeup sponge you'll want to use eye shadow for detailing. Urban Decay's Basics Palette has several neutral shades that will work perfectly under and around the eyes, but also as outlines for those lovely keloid scars.

In terms of the outfit, ideally you're veering towards something black and strappy. Anything Rick Owens would be exceptional (we're talking ideal situation here, FYI). But the real point is to have fun, duh! And if all else fails go as the Scarecrow from Batman - all you'll only need is a brown paper bag.

Stay spooky!

Mr Essentialist: Beauty & the Blogger

Mr Essentialist presents Beauty & the Blogger, featuring La Mer, Jo Malone, Lab Series, Diptyque, Missoni, Degree & Gillette. Staying fresh can be quite the commitment, whats on your shelf?

Men and Makeup: The Truth

It's October, but really it's honesty hour. And by that I mean it's time to breach the whole men and their makeup topic.
You might be going 'life is about the blemishes - deal with them'. Well, yes. There will be blemishes of varying shapes and sizes but the point is that no one needs (or wants) to see them, regardless of chromosomal makeup. Is it really that odd or self-indulgent to not at least try to look our best? The whole aesthetics theory exists for a reason. Men (and women) appear healthier, more successful and certainly more attractive with a clear complexion. And while I'm all for juicing and cleansing from the inside out, sometimes a quick fix is the solution. So with all that in mind, the idea of a man dabbing a little concealer on razor burn is not that offensive, right?

A quick Google search of 'men and makeup' reveals we're definitely thinking about and occasionally doing it, but perhaps not openly admitting to it... yet. And that's not surprising. Most men would avoid confessing to anything cosmetic. Conversely however, in-depth and targeted tutorials indicate that men and their makeup habits are quickly departing the realm of taboo. (Wikihow's "How to Apply Makeup as a Man" is super comprehensive in that it elaborates upon the importance of setting your concealer, while Charlotte Tilbury's "Subtle Undercover Makeup for Men" provides a step-by-step program and product guide on how to achieve a groomed and healthy look.)   

I'm quite familiar with a little concealer. I bought my first tube of Clinique's Anti-Blemish Solutions Clearing Concealer in Italy (when in Rome, I suppose). Since then I've kept it simple and subtle. I haven't, for instance, experimented with bronzer or guyliner but admire the likes of Bowie and Depp (who definitely have). The fact that Sephora now has an entire category on their website dedicated to men's makeup is hugely significant. The average male's grooming habits are rapidly evolving while the beauty industry waits. And it's ready.

Browse and shop a selection of concealers, below.
- Photo by Alexander Atkins

   

The Giveaway: Aesop and The Paris Review

My generous friends at Aesop not only satisfy every skincare need imaginable, they're also offering you an exclusive gift.
That's right,  it's giveaway time - and get this: there's enough custom-designed packages for twenty winners! Essentially it's a no-brainer, but just to make it even clearer here's some very simple logic: we all love free stuff ergo get involved. Now onto the details...

As you already know, Aesop is all about the experience. That is to say their products induce instant bliss and reap real results (have you tried the Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator?). What's more the means by which these benefits are delivered truly embody perfection (and are all part of the aforementioned experience). A marriage of incredibly streamlined packaging covered with some of the finest examples of the written word (from the likes of Osler, Twain and Emerson) means your top shelf retains an effortlessly and intellectually curated look (something any bathroom snooper would most definitely admire - and let's be honest, there's always a bathroom snoop). 

Up for grabs:

In a unique partnership with The Paris Review, Aesop is now offering Mr Essentialist readers complimentary copies of the current Summer Issue (which includes works by Ben Lerner, Patrizia Cavalli and Lydia Davis). Founded in 1953, The Paris Review is much lauded for intelligent fiction, poetry, essays and art, not to mention an expansive collection of longform interviews with noted writers – many of whom were first published in its pages. In the words of one critic, it is ‘one of the single most persistent acts of cultural conservation in the history of the world.’ You'll also receive a carefully chosen selection of samples (including Parsley Seed Cleansing Oil, the Cleansing Masque and a travel-sized Body Cleansing Slab). 

How to enter:

It's simple. 'Like' Mr Essentialist on Facebook and shoot me an email. The first twenty emails will receive a response with a unique promotional code and instructions on applying it at check-out. Remember codes are limited and provided on a first come first serve basis. 

*Click the arrows above to browse and shop a few of my favorite Aesop products.

How to Shave: Dove Men+Care

Shaving is a big deal, but it doesn't have to be. In a mini Q & A, Dove's Dr. Peterkin addresses some pressing concerns.
(And because the good doctor has written several books on the topic, and specifically on the cultural history of facial hair - i.e. The Bearded Gentleman: A Style Guide to Shaving Face - I'd say we should take a leaf from his page.) Read, relax. And then, you know, try it?

1. It's like the chicken and the egg thing. What's better: shower then shave, or shave then shower?

"I would recommend shower then shave. That way, the heat from the warm water will soften your facial hairs and open your pores to make for a more comfortable shaving experience. It’s also important to use a quality shave gel (like the Hydrate+Shave Gel) to help soften the beard and reduce the friction between the razor and skin. This results in less razor burn and fewer ingrown hairs and nicks." 

2. Razor burn is officially the worst. What's the best solution?

"Razor burn can be easily remedied with quality products and extra attention to your shaving habits. For starters be sure to apply pre-shave oil before a shaving gel (the oil will further lubricate your skin and reduce friction between the blade in your skin). It's also a good idea to use a fresh razor when you’re shaving. After four or five uses it’s time to replace your blade because once it dulls, it becomes jagged and loses its high-tech coatings that also reduce friction. Always use a light touch. Pressing the razor too hard on your skin will increase friction. Also, make fewer passes. The more times you shave the same area, the more likely you will experience irritation. It might be a good idea to try a razor with fewer blades. Not everyone will benefit from the four or five blade models. Guys who are particularly prone to irritation should consider a two or three blade design. Avoid shaving against the grain and using a soothing moisturizer or aftershave that does not contain alcohol is a huge help. Dove Men+Care has two great options (the Hydrate+Face Lotion and Hydrate+Post Shave Balm). Moisturizers and alcohol free aftershaves will help your skin heal and provide protection from the elements, while alcohol based products will only further irritate your skin."

3. What's the deal with sideburns - Yay or nay (for real though)?

"Sideburns, like any facial hair choice, are a personal preference; however, I always recommend consulting with your barber, friends and/or partner to get a second opinion. Sideburns can be worn at any length and by men with just about any face shape and can change the appearance of your face. Men with round shaped faces in particular can really benefit from the slimming effect provided by the vertical lines of sideburns. Guys with longer faces should wear their sideburns shorter to minimize the length and narrowness of the face."

4. How should guys really clean their faces? (I'm thinking squeaky clean...)

"We all should cleanse our faces (and facial hair) regularly. Using a simple face twice daily is sufficient. You only need a small amount of cleanser, which you should massage gently all over your face and facial hair. This will loosen debris, skin flakes, and oil that build up on your skin, and will also help to tone the skin."

5. Semi-related, but mostly because I have to know. Do we like Clarisonics?

"Electronic facial brushes of all sorts and at different price points have become popular, especially in the last year. I think most men want to keep things simple- a good face wash used with or without a face cloth and lots of rinsing after should suffice!"

Dove Men+Care is available at most all good drug stores. Visit Dove's online site for additional tips, tricks and how-to videos by clicking here.

Travel Essentials: Aesop London Kit & Carry-On Case

Aesop really is the best friend anyone could ask for. Good-looking, trustworthy, useful - did I mention good-looking?

There’s not much to argue about. But it gets better. Aesop now curates perfectly compact travel kits for those unexpected on-the-go situations. And because we all hate the inevitable scramble (not least disastrous results) of rushed packing (unless we’re receiving instruction from Louis Vuitton), nothing could be more practical than a pre-packed toilet bag. Can you tell I’m into it?   

Besides convenience (ahem, always a major point) there’s nothing like guinea pig-ing yourself out to a whole bunch of travel-sized miniatures. I mean, they all need to be tested. It’s only fair. The whole thing can be very liberating - you might find yourself deciding: “fuck it. I will try that face mask and listen to Gilles Peterson in Brazil while starfishing on my bed.”  Yo-to-the-Lo. What’s the worse that could happen? You might go crazy and commit to a full-sized product? Ok, I hear you. You’re probably going: “what about my 3 steps? I’m ALL ABOUT my 3 steps.” Yes, you’re right. A solid skincare regimen is great and all, but sometimes the best part about the routine is breaking it. I’m human. You’re human. Switch-it up, no one likes a bore. Now let’s discuss the details.

I was drawn to Aesop’s ‘London’ travel kit immediately, simply because I lived there (probably not the best justification, but whatever - this isn't physics class). Then I discovered it included a few of my favorite products (now staples) from the Parsley Seed range. 

WHAT'S INSIDE  You'll be getting all the necessities including the Classic Shampoo and Conditioner, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, Rind Concentrate Body Balm, Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser, Toner and Hydrator, and of course the Bain de Bouche. Basically the only thing left to worry about is your toothbrush.

I’d recommend keeping your Aesop travel pack fully stocked and ready for grabbing at any given moment. Life is about spontaneity - not bad grooming practices.

CUSTOMIZE IT  Aesop's brand new Carry-On Travel Case means you can now choose to pack your own in-flight grooming essentials. Designed to conform to international travel restrictions and requirements, each signature amber bottle (100ml) and pot (15ml) can be filled with any of your favorite Aesop products, time and time-again. Because Aesop is all about being thoughtful, blank labels have been included to avoid any mid-air confusion.

Alongside the 'London' Kit, Aesop also makes a 'Boston' and 'Jet Set' Kit. Click here for more details and to shop.

Old Spice Bar Soap

Let's talk about an American icon for just a second. Old Spice is the quintessential American man's go-to grooming brand.
And for good cause. With over 75 years of experience as an American grooming authority, Old Spice provides all types of American men with an expansive product portfolio that includes antiperspirants, sprays, after-shaves and colognes. But it's so much more than that you guys. Let's face it, everyone has some type of Old Spice memory. Whether it was your father's post-shave scent, awkwardly buying your first deodorant, or even having to endure this guy on Super Bowl Sunday - we all have some type of affinity with the brand.  

So let's chat soap. Hopefully I'm not reaching for the stars in assuming we all use some type of body wash, yes? Well put your liquid bubbles aside, dear reader. We're becoming O.G. in the blogosphere today. Essentially there's nothing quite like soap. OK, so you've probably used some sad, measly little bar of soap that you found in a destitute bathroom at some point. STOP. Reclaim what's rightfully yours. Thankfully the people at Old Spice have developed a range of bar soaps that work well and smell great. Available in three signature scents (Fiji, Pure Sport and Swagger), Old Spice is all about getting your smell on. My favorite is Fiji - not just for its balmy tropical scent, or for the island's proximity to New Zealand. I'm into it for its ability to inspire island living. It's all about escapism (something I've chatted about before) - even if just for a few minutes. The point is I'll take what I can get, and so should you.

Spice up your life, and welcome to Monday.

All three Old Spice bar soaps are widely available in 6-packs for purchase. The post is kindly sponsored by Old Spice.

High Five: Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash

Are you one of those germaphobe types? See, I know you. And you'll love Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash.

I'm not even going to try to hide my confidence (even if that was quite a statement). Because it's simple. This is the best hand wash I have ever used, and definitely the best you've ever used too. I mean, does your regular drugstore variety exfoliate and moisturize? I thought not. Besides, clean well-groomed hands equate to: 'I care'. And trust me, you want to care. So yes, this is important - let's get into the details.

Aesop is all about the experience. Aside from great results, Aesop's products are about being consumed by an overwhelming sense of relaxation - even if the whole process lasts just fifteen fleeting seconds (ahem). Also the packaging means your bathroom get's an instant face-lift, and I'm all for a good cosmetic procedure. While Petitgrain and Bergamot Rind ensure cleanliness, milled Pumice serves as a natural and gentle exfoliant. An infusion of Vetiver Root means your hands are left smelling sublime. And there's more...

The whole process should end with Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Balm, a rich treatment that soothes and moisturizes. An injection of Potassium Lactate and Lactic Acid mean hands remain hydrated, without the usual onslaught of annoying or sticky residue. Basically the point here is hands are important. Take care of them. Oh, and Happy Friday.

*Aesop's Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash will be available for purchase on Monday. Visit their online store for details.

Oil Your Face: Shu Uemura Skin Purifier

This is going to be weird. I mean why add oil to your face, right? Wrong. Do it. Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier is the answer.
At this stage you're probably thinking: so how did this all happen? Well let's just say unexpected sleepovers result in unexpected skincare routines - Noxzema was definitely involved (not to mention a weird toothbrush situation - don't ask).  
I've heard chatter about moisturizing oils for some time now (Rodin's Luxury Face Oil comes highly recommended) so I thought, why not. Carpe-that-Diem, etc. Besides I've always loved using La Mer's Radiant Serum which is kind-of oil-ish, I guess. After gently applying a few drops of Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier to my face in small circular motions I was impressed. My skin had a definite glow and felt beyond smooth without leaving any oily residue. Absorption complete, I finished the whole process off with Kiehl's Ultimate UV Shield SPF - which coincidentally is oil-free (I'm guessing a more-is-more approach doesn't apply to this situation). 

And it gets weirder. While researching for this post I discovered that the Skin Purifier is actually a make-up cleanser, which leads me to conclude the following: whatever works, works. Don't argue the oil, no matter what. 

Click the arrows above to browse and shop the products mentioned.

Salvatore Ferragamo Acqua Essenziale

Spring has sprung meaning one thing: it's time for a new fresh fragrance like Acqua Essenziale by Salvatore Ferragamo.

You might recall how much I love a good rich smokey scent, but the new equinox calls for many changes to my grooming routine (including a light-weight toner and moisturizer). Besides, smelling like an Old Boys clubroom doesn't exactly scream I'm-on-a-yacht-in-Capri, does it?

For Spring there are a few 'rules' regarding fragrance. Firstly go light and stay seasonal. There really is nothing worse than overpowering a room with your 'Eau de Whatever'. Ferragamo's Acqua Essenziale is perfect in that it boasts aromatic notes of geranium, rosemary and lavender - all of which are currently in season. Essentially it's like eating seasonally (think Gwyneth), so why not smell like what's in season too? It makes sense.

Ferragamo's perfumer Alberto Morillas included top notes of mint and lemon-tree leaf in Acqua Essenziale to enhance the casual vibe of the fragrance (I'm definitely thinking shorts). The dry notes (including patchouli, vetiver and cistus) add an ultra-refined yet musky quality, reflective of the Ferragamo gentleman. While that all sounds great, let's be honest, they had me at the name. I am Mr Essentialist after all...

Mr Essentialist's Shady Beards

The good people over at Shave Your Style recently asked me to share my thoughts (yes - sometimes I have some) on beards and sunglasses.

After much investigation (involving varying degrees of mass interrogation and countless visits to Sunglass Hut) I have conjured-up a fail-safe and fool-proof system to help you flawlessly match facial hair to frame. That's right everyone, this is a thing.

Read the tips by clicking here.  

An American (Psycho) Routine:

Alright, I'll be the first to admit it - I'm a slave to my grooming routine.

And yes there is method to my moisturizing madness, sub-arctic eye spooning sessions (!) and bizarre application techniques. But honestly after all is said (and done) I just feel great. So in light of that revelation I thought we should look at easily the most compulsive and detail-oriented of grooming routines ever documented - that of Mr. Patrick Bateman. 

Bateman believes in taking care of himself, "a balanced diet and a rigorous exercise routine". That all sounds fantastically GOOP-esque, yet something tells me we won't catch Gwyneth doing her crunches wearing ice-googles anytime soon. 

In the shower PB uses a deep pore cleansing lotion. I love Neutrogena's Deep Clean Cream Cleanser - it leaves skin insanely soft and revitalized. Also, Patrick always exfoliates. Me, well I'm obsessed with La Mer's Refining Facial - a scrub that delicately polishes and resurfaces the tissue, prepping the face for a great moisturizer. 

While PB loves a good herb-mint facial mask, I prefer something like the Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask, a lychee and Kombucha-infused treatment rich in anti-oxidants.   

As you know I'm devoted to La Mer - probably for life. It's cold in NYC you guys, so nothing (no, really nothing) will ever compare to the ultra-luxe moisture provided by the original Crème de la Mer. Sure you'll need to come to terms with the whole warming-up-the-cream thing, but mastering your routine will having you reaping in the benefits. Just look at Mr. Bateman below - he's reveling in them.

Happy Friday!

*Watch the complete (and psychotic) routine of Patrick Bateman by clicking here.

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator

There's been a re-shuffle on my bathroom shelf, and Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator has emerged as king.

While this may come as a surprise (especially considering my past declarations of moisturizer-loyalty), people (and their skin) change. And change is good. Besides, a new season is upon us, so really there isn't a better time than the present to mix it-up (you know, carpe diem and all). Even if we're just talking moisturizers.

I recently discovered Aesop (via their newly launched mouthwash) and have been captivated ever since. For me it was all about their streamlined packaging, quirky quotes and recommended reading tips - all of which undoubtedly add a cool factor to my bathroom shelf. And while we all know never to judge a book by its cover, beneath Aesop's packaging lies a wealth of promise. That being said, let's get down to business.

Essentially Aesop's Parsley Seed range is nothing short of botanical bliss. The Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is the latest release in a string of Parsley Seed-centric products (which also includes a fantastic toner, fyi). Packed with a whole bunch of botanicals, essential oils and vitamins (including Provitamin B), the lightweight moisturizer leaves skin feeling supple, dewy and refreshed. Besides the signature extract, the hydrator features an array of core ingredients like white tea and willowherb - both of which serve to sooth and comfort (and we all need a little soothing and comforting from time-to-time, non?). 

And in semi-related news Henry David Thoreau once said, "it is only when we forget all our learning that we begin to know". Perhaps there's a subliminal mix-up-your-grooming-routine message in there somewhere.

Happy almost-Friday.

*The Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is available online and in key stores on March 18th, and will retail for $65.

Hairspiration: Michael Douglas

To say Michael Douglas has great hair is an understatement. Rather, I'd say he's had a career of exceptional hair.
Besides, we all can use a little inspiration from time-to-time, and what is the point of a proper Throwback Thursday really if not to inspire? That's right dear reader, inspiration is the point. 

I've long been a fan of Michael Douglas - have you seen A Perfect Murder? It's really something. And yes, we should of-course consider the amazingness that is Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct, and the first Wall Street (shall we just quietly ignore the sequel?). But when I really get into it, what I most admire is the unequivocal level of sophisticated elegance MD exudes at all times (even when attempting to kill Gwyneth). Perhaps it has something to do with the whole Hollywood royalty thing, but I'd say it's more than pedigree. It's genetics. Hair genetics. 

I'm all for trying different hairstyles - I mean wasn't that the point of the eleventh grade? But after countless cuts, buzzes and trims I'd say by the age of twenty-four you should have a general idea of what works for you. For Michael it's all about the voluminous wavy blow-back, and boy does he rock it. In fact he's been rocking it since forever. From glaringly good on the cover L'Officiel Hommes (June 1979), to I'm-all-business for Fortune Magazine (June 2005), it seems Michael Douglas knows, quite literally, what's up.

Hairspiration is a thing, happy almost-Friday.

*Top: Michael Douglas with Glenn Close (Time Magazine, November 1987), On the cover of Rolling Stone (January 1988). Above: Michael Douglas on the cover of L'Officiel Hommes (June 1979), Fortune Magazine (June 2005), and Gordon Gekko on the cover of Fortune Magazine (as seen in Wall Street).

Seda France

Remember what I said about finding the perfectly scented candle?

Well, this just might be it. Seda France - the purveyor of finely fragranced candles continually produces beautifully packaged home fragrances that are delightful.

I was recently gifted the limited-edition Anniversaire - which boosts delicate notes of citron, heliotrope and geranium that are complemented by more robust oakmoss and patchouli flavors. Also the turret-style packaging (complete with tassel!) is pretty spectacular.

*For more information and to purchase click here. 

Aesop's Great Breath

If Kim Kardashian's sixth sense is an ability to 'smell cavities', surely she would recommend Aesop's new mouthwash.

Why? It's pretty great. And by great I mean it tastes amazing - so for a mouthwash that is, well, refreshing. I'm all for mouthwash(ing), partly because it keeps your dental bill somewhat manageable, but mostly because there is nothing worse then bad breath. Seriously.

So when Aesop partnered with the Dia Art Foundation for an evening of wine, charcuterie and art I couldn't resist. While guests were whisked-off for private tours of Walter De Maria's installations (The New York Earth Room and The Broken Kilometer), I got the low-down on the 'Bain de Bouche'. A gentle mix of clove bud, aniseed and spearmint leave your mouth incredibly happy (mine's been smiling all day). The alcohol-free formulation means the whole experience is far less invasive than your standard supermarket variety and the ingredients work in your favor, keeping the mouth moisturized. 

Basically this might be the best thing to come out of Australia in a while (possibly ever?) - and as a New Zealander that's really saying something.

*Aesop's new mouthwash is available in-stores and online. For more information and to purchase click here.