Shopping Editor’s Picks: From Luxury Handbags to Tech-Enhanced Skincare

As a shopping editor, the challenge of “buy less, but buy better” is a constant consideration. Over the past few months, I’ve focused on investing in items that offer lasting value and quality. Here’s a curated list of recent purchases and discoveries, spanning fashion, skincare, home goods, and more.

Fashion Finds

Cafuné Stance Handbag

This Hong Kong-based brand offers a compelling “affordable luxury” option with its Stance Handbag in Taupe, priced at $1,260. Cafuné’s structured silhouette and timeless design, crafted from durable Italian textured leather, make it suitable for various occasions. Reviewers highlight the bag’s quality and value compared to more expensive luxury brands. One reviewer stated, “Perfect size, great quality without the ridiculous markup you observe with some of the ‘luxury’ brands.”

MoveActive Crew Grip Socks

These Pilates socks, priced at $22.95, have become a favorite accessory. Featuring grippy bases and cute patterns, they offer both functionality and style.

Summi Summi Easy Jeans

Ashleigh Vallis’ Summi Summi brand’s first foray into denim, the Easy Jeans ($219), are a worthwhile investment. They offer a flattering fit with attention to detail in the stitching and buttons.

Elka Collective Winston Jacket

The Elka Collective Winston Jacket ($399) is a modern seize on classic outerwear. Its vegan leather construction with a crinkled texture provides a relaxed, lived-in look.

Skincare & Wellness

The Skincare Tools 5-in-1 Pilates Wand

For those seeking a lifted and toned appearance, The Skincare Tools’ 5-in-1 Pilates Wand ($450) offers a gym-style facial workout. Designed to lift, tone, contour, and cleanse the skin, it combines five technologies for at-home facial treatments. Founder Alexa McGrath explains, “The Face Pilates Wand is designed for anyone wanting to improve facial tone, definition, and skin performance without invasive treatments.”

Ecoya Sandalwood & Amber Bathroom Edit

This recent bathroom collection ($79.95) features a hand and body wash and cream in a stylish tray, adding a touch of luxury to the bathroom.

Good Sport High Performance Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+

Priced at $34.95, this sunscreen is designed for high-intensity activities, making it ideal for runners. Remember to apply at least one teaspoon per limb, one for the front and back of the body, and one for the head – a full body application should be around 35mL or seven teaspoons.

Biotyspa Body Spa Kit

The Biotyspa Body Spa Kit ($79) is designed to replenish and hydrate skin after exposure to heat, salt, chlorine, and UV rays.

For the Family

Lovevery Connector Play Kit

The Lovevery Connector Play Kit ($144) is designed for four-year-olds, focusing on developing resilience-building executive function skills through play. Research indicates that 90% of a child’s brain structure is developed by age five, highlighting the importance of early learning.

Summer Sun Wetsuit

A good wetsuit is essential for water play, and the Summer Sun Wetsuit ($99) is easy to get on and off and offers cute designs.

Kine Baby Cloths

These baby wipes ($69.99) are crafted with 100% plant-based fibers and soothing ingredients like Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, making them gentle for sensitive skin.

Yoto Olivia Dean, The Art of Loving

The Yoto player is a beloved gadget for many children, and Olivia Dean’s album, *The Art of Loving* ($22.99), is a welcome addition to the Yoto library.

Home & Lifestyle

MCM House Axol Round Coffee Table

The MCM House Axol Round Coffee Table ($1,695) is a solid investment, crafted from natural stone and old elm timber for an elegant yet relaxed aesthetic.

Linen House Shetland Olive Cushion

This cushion ($69.99) is made from a soft blend that mimics sherpa, perfect for cozy autumn evenings.

The Classic Australian Cookbook

Featuring 75 recipes, including classics from *The Australian Women’s Weekly* archives, this cookbook ($33.74) is a journey through Australian culinary history.

Big W Scalloped Round Basket

Big W’s homewares range includes this stylish scalloped basket ($25).

Fazeek TipToe Candle Holder

The Fazeek TipToe Candle Holder ($49) balances sculptural design with quiet elegance.

Unexpected Finds

eufy robot vacuum E28

The eufy robot vacuum E28 ($1,447) is a worthwhile investment for easy cleaning, especially in homes with children. Its obstacle avoidance feature ensures it navigates around furniture and toys.

The Scotch Cross Bun

Benriach distillery and Tokyo Lamington have collaborated to create the Scotch Cross Bun ($22), a whisky-infused reinvention of the Easter treat.

Who Gives A Crap Where’s The Loo

Who Gives A Crap’s limited-edition toilet roll ($40) features unique designs by Australian illustrator Owen Lindsay.

EPC Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut NV

EPC Champagne ($91.99) offers a high-quality Champagne experience without the pretension.