A Valentine’s Day Gift Guide
From me, to me
Hello again! I apologize for skipping last week’s newsletter, I was bedridden with what I thought was Covid. Based on my symptoms which included shivering in 86-degree weather and a blinding headache, the locals here in Costa Rica seem to believe it was dengue fever instead. I don’t know what to make of this information, but I’m happy to be back!
I have been on a shopping strike all year! First, I was relishing in the delight of my last purchase, a see-through Chloe dress for which I used up my entire TRR credit and then some. I’m also trying to finish my Paris apartment without going bankrupt - we’re now making decisions for all the “visible” parts of the project (having to level the floor twice was not “visible”, but it was very expensive). And now, my postal address in Costa Rica is a set of coordinates and all I’m wearing is a Rip Curl surf suit torn at the elbow and my favorite sarong. for the past 2 weeks.
I really think Berries and Chocolate taste better separate, but I love a Valentine’s Day gift guide. They’re for precious and impractical objects - my favorite category of them all. I’m single and wouldn’t dare to venture out for dinner on the 14th, but I am few days away from getting back to civilization AND turning 33, so I’m getting the itch to shop and dress up again.
I realize it would have been more useful given this audience to do a gift guide for men, and if I get enough requests I will. In the meantime, enjoy these objects of desire / my birthday wishlist!
Xx
Melanie
1. Loewe Hazelnut Candle ($119)
My love for Loewe Home Scents knows no bounds, and this new hazelnut one might be my new favorite.
2. Vintage Schiaparelli Brooch ($1,925)
Brooches are back (and I’m calling that clip-on earrings are next). I’m dying for this Schiaparelli one with a pearl for a tear, but there are many gorgeous and more affordable options on Ebay. A few of my fav are here ($30+)!
3. A mystery box of great Apples ($37)
For the apple of your eye.
4. Stackable Lab-Grown-Diamond Earring ($500 $625)
It’s no secret I love everything Kimai makes, and the founder is a friend. I love this high impact “Lili” earring that can also be stacked.
You can use the code “MELANIE20” for 20% off in February.
5. Delicate White Shoes
Because nothing says “you are precious” like a pair of sparkling new white shoes. I love the Alaia fishnet ones in this new colorway as a summer staple, but I’m also incredibly excited by these really tempted by these white Miu Miu boat shoes I can see myself wearing every day. I think they’re my birthday present.
6. A passport holder ($220)
10x less boring than a wallet. Works for men, too.
7. Tom Ford Rose d’Amalfi ($334)
It wouldn’t be a Valentine’s Day Gift guide without fragrance and roses. I’ve been loyal to TF Neroli smell for years, but this new Rose d’Amalfi recently stole my heart.
8. Westman Atelier Les Etoiles Set ($160)
I love everything Westman Atelier does and it’s often the only thing I carry in my purse (alongside a Glossier Gen Z in Like, and my Rhode lip balm). This set is so beautiful (and matches their new and aptly named Eye Want You mascara).
9. Mother of Pearl Flatware ($42)
Welcome to another Etsy rabbit hole.
10. Heart shaped coin pouch ($201 $410)
by Jil Sander. The MT sale is a trove with 30% off on top of sale for the next few days.
11. Fancy Trumpet Flutes! ($135 for 4)
By Sophie Lou Jacobsen
12. A luxury belt ($420)
I’m officially over the studded Khaite belt but have to admit their accessories look so beautifully well-made. I’ve been eyeing a new belt with chunky metal to complement my winter whites. This snakeskin one stole my heart, but the black dupe from Madewell ($58) is very good, too!
13. Ghia x Awan
A super limited collaboration with Awan, the hottest “ice cream” in LA. If you’re not local, fear not. Our Sweet Set ($56) or Sweet Set Deluxe (ie contains glassware) are for you. Just BYO ice cream.
As always, readers of this newsletter get 15% off with the code NIGHTSHADE15
14. The most beautiful coffee machine I’ve ever seen ($589)
Spotted at the Miu Miu store in Paris, this is the anniversary edition of their famous Francis Francis machine - looks traditional but works with coffee capsules!
15. The Row Austin Bag ($2,250)
I’m so in love with the half moon one I got myself last year but have to admit the sculptural shape of this one is so chic.
16. Spring & Mulberry Date Chocolate ($15)
This chocolate has no added sugar and is so delicious.
I'll take one of each, please and thank you!