In search of the finer things in life — because the finest ones still cost too much.

Under the Radar

Three invisible heroes to add to your routine.

Aug 29

The gardens at Château de Chambord, France.

Not all heroes wear capes. At least not the types of capes you can see from a mile away. Some heroes keep a lower profile, saving the day with a bit less pomp. It usually takes looking at them from another perspective—or leaving them behind for a while—to appreciate them. You may not notice the brilliance of your hero finds right away, but as soon as you do, you can’t help but be thankful they’re around.

This week’s three picks don’t make a lot of noise, but man am I glad I found them. They fly under the radar, doing the heavy lifting and keeping minor disasters at bay.

They’re all secrets worth sharing.

1. Maybelline New York Eraser Multi-use Concealer (£8.99)

maybelline

A post shared by Maybelline New York (@maybelline)

A great concealer can do wonders. I used to use a very pricey stick from the department store that set me back almost $100, and I never used it up before it expired. This handy wand from Maybelline provides complete coverage in a lightweight formula that stays put, even on my oily skin. With just a few swipes and dabs, I can brighten my complexion and cover up blemishes for a natural look. While using the applicator is great for larger areas, if I really need to cover a blemish, I’ll press a cotton swab into the applicator for more concentrated coverage and control.

2. Spanx The Perfect Pant, Hi-Rise Flare ($168)

spanx

A post shared by SPANX (@spanx)

Back during the aughts, I worked at the local shopping mall at the height of the black dress pants era. But those versions were usually made of scratchy fabrics with the requisite low rise that was never comfortable. This pair, however, from shapewear brand Spanx is an update on that flared style and is available in multiple inseams. Made from stretchy ponte fabric, they really are yoga pants in disguise, perfect for traveling or sitting at a desk all day. These pants hold their shape and hold you in all day long without wrinkling for a curvy silhouette.

3. West Elm Clear Acrylic Trays ($38.40 and up)

Acrylic trays are an excellent way to organize all sorts of odds and ends. They blend in with any decor and are sturdy enough for serving as well. These colorless trays are also ideal for preventing messes when used under liquids, which is why I like to use these from West Elm on my makeshift bar to ensure no drips end up on my furniture post cocktail hour. I’ve had the large rectangle version for more than five years and it’s survived multiple moves. I wouldn’t recommend putting anything hot on them (drinks, candles, etc.), as that may cause denting or warping.

Something to think about …

I’m always looking for an excuse to share a picture of Scoop and this past week, the U.S. celebrated National Dog Day. Not a day goes by I’m not thankful for my little buddy, who is a constant source of fun and comfort (even if he is also constantly stealing my socks). You can find ways to support dogs in need here and here.

Last week on MIDDI …

MIDDI

Take Me Back

Certain places stick with us forever. The memories we create in these spots find a home in our hearts we can draw on whenever we need to. These are places where we stepped out of our comfort zone, fell in love or saw something that changed the way we understood the world. Allowing a place and its…