As we creep closer and closer to the holiday season, you may already be planning your gift-shopping itinerary. If you’re looking for some inspiration, this edition of MIDDI includes three finds customizable to the recipient.

This edition was originally published on April 4, 2022. Enjoy!

Sometimes it’s easy to feel like we all have the same crap. Especially in the age of social media, trends explode so much faster and spread around the world seemingly overnight. That’s why it’s nice to get or give something more personal from time to time. It might be a customized item or one that performs in a way that’s totally unique to each person. These products make us feel special when we reach for them and are often the ones we get asked about the most.

The three buys featured this week are anything but mass-produced or cheesy. Each slots easily into your daily routine and can help you express yourself a bit more colorfully.

It’s all about you.

1. Living Libations Maiden Fern Blushing Balm (£28)

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Coming out of two years of lockdowns, I’ve gone back to a daily makeup routine. I like to keep it quick and the final look very natural, which makes blush tricky—it can look too obvious on me with just one swipe too many. That’s what makes this balm from holistic skincare guru Nadine Artemis’ Living Libations so special—it warms and creates a gentle, rosy flush on the skin. The end result is different for everyone, which takes the guesswork out of choosing a shade. The base includes jojoba, seabuckthorn and beeswax along with a mix of essential oils to nourish the skin.

2. Elizabeth Scarlett Makeup Bags (£22 and up)

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I love a monogram, and I can never have too many makeup bags. I like these designs from artist Elizabeth Scarlett Petrides for two reasons: the beautiful embroidered designs, and the fact I can throw them in the washing machine after any spills. Because something always spills. I went for the Tiger Cosmetics Bag, which is the perfect size to toss into a tote. You can choose from a variety of options as well as larger items including overnight bags. The brand also supports several causes that protect wildlife, so you can feel even better about adding one to your collection.

3. Girl Friday Clear Acrylic Calendars ($89 and up)

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Maintaining calendars and lists keeps me sane and my home running smoothly. If you’re someone who likes a physical way to manage everything, buying a new paper calendar every year can feel wasteful. Girl Friday’s range of acrylic calendars are sleek and minimally designed. They fit in with any decor and provide an elegant way to stay on top of things using dry erase markers. Founded by a husband-and-wife team, they also offer the option to add a name or title to personalize your calendar as well as magnetic styles for even more versatility.

Something to think about …

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Another great book I’ve read lately is Life in the City of Dirty Water by Native and environmental activist Clayton Thomas-Müller. His memoir is a tough, inspiring and necessary read about the atrocities Native people around the world have endured and their continued fight for their rights, culture and land.

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.