For most of us, Mondays are synonymous with work. Whether we head into the office or post up on the sofa with our laptops, it’s back to the grind until the weekend rolls around again. To make this transition easier, we look for things that won’t get in the way or add extra fuss to our day—the products that do their job to help us do ours.

The three products in this week’s edition are all MVPs in my book. They step in where needed and deliver results, no questions asked. Having them around means a few less problems to solve, and who doesn’t want that?

Say goodbye to the Monday blues.

1. Real Purity Roll-On Deodorant ($12.99)

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I have always been skeptical of natural deodorants, but after reading about this one time and time again, I had to try it. Real Purity was founded by Virginia Easterling in 1982 to provide quality skincare products for sensitive skin. Their liquid formula contains a blend of apricot oil, organic aloe vera and kosher vegetable glycerin to keep wetness at bay along with lavender and rosemary essential oils for odor control. Somehow, it keeps me from feeling swampy even without baking soda (which irritates my pits). It does requires some dry-down time, but it’s worth it.

2. AllSaints Aleida Jersey Blazer (£139)

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A simple, black blazer is a true multitasker for your wardrobe that always looks chic and professional. Throw one on with jeans and a T-shirt, over a slip dress or pair it with matching trousers—the looks are endless. I like this one from AllSaints (previously featured here and here) for a few reasons: First of all, it has a slim, not tight fit that elongates the torso. Second, the open front strikes the right balance between formal and casual. Lastly, it’s made of a lightweight jersey, which is easy to care for. You can find more tips for picking the perfect blazer here.

3. Moleskine Soft Cover Classic Notebook (£16.99 and up)

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Sometimes, you gotta go analog. While I type more than I write things out these days, I prefer to use a notebook for some projects. I don’t remember when I got my first Moleskine, but I’m sure I’ll be buying—and saving—these notebooks for years to come. Their classic notebook is available in multiple colors and sizes for jotting down notes, sketching or journaling and lays flat when open. It’s also not covered in leather, despite the name. You can choose between plain, ruled, dotted or squared pages, and if you prefer a hard cover, they’ve got that, too.

Something to think about …

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I was asked tonight to name an author whose work has shaped mine. One person that immediately came to mind was former restaurant critic Ruth Reichl. Her 1998 memoir, Tender at the Bone: Growing Up at the Table, is full of vivid scenery, tasty recipes and comical anecdotes about the role food has played in all aspects of her life, career and relationships.

Last week on MIDDI …

MIDDI

Go for the Glamour

This spring and summer, I’m going all in on the pomp. Give me all of the brightly colored dresses, oversize hats and pitchers of Pimms. I just love this time of year in London, because it’s one show-stopping event after another. It all kicks off with…

Read more

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.Three