There is never just one way to do something. As the saying goes, where there’s a will, there’s a way. But I say, where there’s a great design, there’s a way. (It may not rhyme anymore, but you get the idea.) Smart design can help you tackle a nagging issue, try out a new style or inspire you to look at things differently.

The three finds in this week’s edition all shifted my expectations of what I thought was possible. They break the mold and allow me more creative freedom. Just when I thought I had it all figured out …

Not everything is as it seems.

1. ghd Paddle Brush (£23)

ghdhair

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I’ve always struggled with the blowout part of styling my hair. Using a round brush involves gymnastics and upper-body strength I just don’t have and no matter how many video tutorials I watch, I just can’t get it. But a round brush isn’t the only way to get a great blowout. Enter this gorgeous brush from Yorkshire-born ghd (Good Hair Day) which has a non-slip handle and a broad base to smooth large sections of hair quickly without creating static. If you’re also in a constant battle with frizz, this brush is a game changer to help you get salon results without dislocating anything.

2. XOUXOU Phone Necklaces (£52 and up)

xouxou

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As a pupper mom, I hate trying to juggle a bag while walking the dog. I like to take just my keys and phone with me if I can help it, so when a friend of showed up wearing one of these phone case/necklace combos from XOUXOU, I had to check them out. Based in Berlin, the brand was launched in 2016 by Yara Jentsch Dib who wanted to make hands-free tech accessories that would compliment your outfit, not distract from it. The colors range from neon to more muted earth tones and you can pair the necklaces with their durable plastic phone cases.

3. ferm LIVING Pond Mirror (£309)

huh.store

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I’m preparing to move house, so naturally I’m revisiting all of my wishlist items. I’ve had this mirror by ferm LIVING, the Danish brand launched in 2005 by Trine Andersen, saved for months. All of the design I’m drawn to right now is from Copenhagen—everything is sleek with a clear influence from nature. I love the fluid lines and low-profile frame on this mirror. It looks like a mirage or whimsical portal on the wall. You can also hang it horizontally or vertically. And it’s 20% off right now at HUH. Store with code “HUH20” so grab yours now!

Something to think about …

One of the things I love most about London is the green spaces. Spending time outside is something I’ve learned to cherish for my mental health, and it reminds me of the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing). It’s all about taking time to disconnect from distractions and connect with nature. Try it this week if you can.

Last week on MIDDI …

MIDDI

Willkommen, bienvenue, welcome!

Hosting overnight guests can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. When I’m preparing for guests to stay with us for a night or two (or 10) I try to stick to the following strategy: Reduce Clutter — Put away anything non-essential so your guests have space to spread out their items and find what they need…

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7 days ago · Petra Canan Trudell

MIDDI is a weekly roundup of mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys released every Monday. Have a product you’re searching for? Leave your suggestions in the comments.