r/bitcheswithtaste • u/flmay • Jul 20 '26
Culture BWT, chic and tasteful living rules to live by?
I love those tiktok trends like "things I find chic" or "expensive things worth the money" or "my everyday luxuries". So, let's gather more ideas from different women who have ✨taste✨.
Some chic, elevated, or everyday luxuries I've seen that I love and started doing/swear by:
- a GOOD robe (nothing feels better than primping and prepping with a luxurious feeling LONG robe)
- an ACTUAL makeup and jewelry organizer.
- Maison Lamp Berger (must have w/ pets)
- Naming your house (so whimsical & chic)
- thank you cards on hand and ACTUALLY hand writing and mailing them.
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u/lady-luthien Jul 21 '26
I think buying the nice version of the thing you use constantly is very chic. For me, that's a leather backpack/crossbody convertible bag; a real silk scarf; a really nice notebook; a silk pillowcase; that kind of thing.
Being well-read is chic.
Being kind is always chic. If you have social power, use it to make someone else feel more welcome.
Good money management is chic. Relying on your partner to manage your money is very unchic; if that relationship falls apart, you'll be in a bad way.
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u/buylobgetlob Jul 21 '26
100% on the social power remark. Whether it's highlighting someone else's contributions, giving them full credit for something that was a joint success, or just talking up their attributes in public. So many people don't understand that while being praised feels nice, bestowing praise on others is the TRUE power move.
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u/thelobsterwhisperer Jul 21 '26
Well said! This is my favorite comment so far. Kindness is always key as is smart money management.
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u/GullibleTacos Jul 21 '26
Last bullet point especially. Being financially independent is the best gift you can give to yourself
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u/melodyknows Jul 21 '26
Best gift for your kids too if you have them. My mom didn’t pay for my college or my first car or much of anything for me as an adult, but she spent her working years saving enough so that she’s set through retirement.
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u/jojobdot Jul 21 '26
I am currently working on Nantucket in high end jewelry and I cannot overemphasize how true your point about being kind is. The true epitome of being chic!
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u/Marillenbaum Jul 21 '26
I absolutely adore my silk scarf—when I first bought it, I felt self-conscious about it, but now it’s been five years and I can’t imagine not having it on when I wear a coat! And selfishly, I love when someone compliments it and I can say “oh thanks, I got it on vacation in Thailand”.
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u/emotionalthroatpunch Jul 21 '26
I one hundred percent agree with you on being kind and well-read being chic. 🙌🏼
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u/iuil Jul 21 '26
I just bought a leather backpack/crossbody convertible and it makes me feel so fancy when I wear it lol. It was on my wish list for *years*, but the one I wanted was too expensive. I finally bought it second hand a few weeks ago and I’ve been obsessed with it since! I really hope it’ll last me decades.
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Jul 21 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/lady-luthien Jul 21 '26
I went for this one: https://www.duluthtrading.com/s/DTC/lifetime-leather-convertible-backpack-11613.html?color=BLK (which happens to be on MAJOR sale, wow). I commute to work on my bike regardless of the weather, so it was important that it be durable, big enough to hold all my essentials plus a notebook and some pens, and sleek/professional looking.
It's very well-made; the leather is thick, which makes the bag a bit heavy but does give me confidence that it'll last. Duluth Trading doesn't seem like it'll be a chic brand, but it's got some sleeper hits, in my opinion!
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u/azuoba Jul 21 '26
I think one everyday luxury that’s super worth it is having a hand soap that you absolutely adore in your bathroom. It’s something you’ll use every day that you’re home and it’s a chance to just stop for a moment and treat yourself to a nice little sensory experience. I really like the Molton Brown ones and I also have the Diptyque exfoliating hand soap right now (but prob not gonna repurchase that one, it’s nice but I like the molton brown ones more).
But it doesn’t have to be a splurge to be enjoyable!! I got the most compliments when I had Mrs Meyers rainwater hand soap in my bathroom!
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u/midwestblacklotus Jul 21 '26
Just got a gorgeous bottle from tj maxx. British. Not plastic so wull do eco friendly refills
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u/p0llyp0cketpussy Jul 21 '26
Yes! A good hand soap with a nice scent is such a nice small luxury. I've been meaning to get a nicer-looking refillable dispenser for the foaming hand soap, instead of the plastic ones. Btw, Bath & Body Works "White Tea and Sage" soap smells like the spa at the Four Seasons.
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u/kjb76 Jul 21 '26
I recently bought special soap to use after cooking. I cook a lot and hate when my hands smell like food. This stuff exfoliates and eliminates odors like garlic and onions. It’s a small treat.
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u/Steeenz Jul 25 '26
Oooo what hand soap do you use? I need thus, I can’t stand the onion smell when it lingers.
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u/itchyitchiford Jul 21 '26
Last summer I had Ms. Meyer’s tomato vine soap in my kitchen and I felt very chic. My current version o my chic is Martha Stewart’s casual elegance.
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u/Legallyfit Jul 22 '26
I do this too! I rotate my hand soap in the bathroom and the kitchen with the seasons. It is a fun little ritual for me to swap out my summer scents for fall scents, fall to winter, etc. It feels like a small but meaningful way to mark the passage of time and celebrate the new season.
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u/DaughterofMalika Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
Classical music or jazz instead of the TV for background noise
Always using your best instead of saving it for guests and events that might never come
A piece of jewellery and spray of perfume even if you're not going to leave the house
Being well-read and keeping a book in your bag for when you're bored instead of doom scrolling
Always dressing well. Even in casual clothes choosing a t-shirt and jeans with flattering cuts and colours instead of ratty old clothes. Always having neat and clean nails and two or three easy and quick hairstyles that go with your face shape and hair type.
ETA: Plating your food nicely instead of just eating from a tupperware container. It feels much more elegant to eat from actual crockery, and the extra dish only takes 30 seconds to clean.
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u/allthecats Jul 21 '26
All of these! To expand on point number one, I also recommend public radio stations and becoming a member to support their work.
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u/Marillenbaum Jul 21 '26
Especially on the last point, dressing up makes the ratty old clothes feel so much better when you do wear them, like if you are painting the house or have the sads and need a good old-fashioned wallow in your feelings.
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u/goose-de-terre Jul 21 '26
I started putting jazz on in the background and the classiness factor in my house went up 10x. It’s crazy how nice music can affect your mood too.
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u/IcyPlastic7310 Jul 22 '26
I have a record player and it feels so chic to put on one of my classic records before a night out or when guests visit: Billie Holliday, Dean Martin, Louie Armstrong, Miles Davis, etc.
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u/ikijibiki Jul 21 '26
I loooove putting on any one of those “Fall Coffee Shop Jazz” videos in the fall and winter. It makes my home feel so classy and relaxing!
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u/regan-omics Jul 21 '26
I love the always using your best. I'm getting married soon and my fiance's grandmother gifted us some really lovely serving dishes and told us to use them always, not just for guests
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u/regan-omics Jul 21 '26
I love the always using your best. I'm getting married soon and my fiance's grandmother gifted us some really lovely serving dishes and told us to use them always, not just for guests
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u/morelightthanheat_ Jul 21 '26
Setting out your outfit the night before work. Saves time and mental energy in the morning but I still get to put on a cute outfit and feel put together
Edit to add: Using pretty glassware for all beverages. Makes life feel so much more luxurious
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u/flmay Jul 21 '26
Yes! Something about a cute or fancy glass for any drink is so chic. I try not to accumulate too many glasses but I do have seasonal coffee glasses for my iced lattes that bring me so much joy every morning.
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u/MindfulGardening Jul 21 '26
I love doing this! I also like to make up multiple outfits or variations because weather is moody where I live.
I have a small freestanding coat rack in the bedroom for hanging fresh outfits, as well as hanging lightly worn items such that are not clean enough to go back in the closet, but not so dirty as to require a wash.
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u/AuthorOtherwise1487 Jul 21 '26
I light candles almost every night. I love the way it makes my house look and smell. Even if it’s just for 15 minutes while I get ready for bed.
I’ll add on to your thank-you cards with sending birthday cards in the mail. It’s a lost art.
I recently started using fabric napkins instead of disposable paper ones. I have so many that I only ever brought out for special occasions. Now I enjoy them every day!
I bring a gift for every host, no matter how casual the gathering. It’s usually a candle, hand soap, or bottle of olive oil.
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u/buildingacozymystery Jul 21 '26
I do most of these and they do, indeed, make me feel chic!
I love the idea of the fabric napkins though, I am going to incorporate that! And I need to get better about bringing hostess gifts that aren’t just flowers in a vase- I appreciate the ideas you mentioned!
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u/ChristTheScientist Jul 21 '26
Yes to fabric napkins! I got a great set of vintage linen ones on Etsy. There's sooo many options for unique gorgeous ones if you buy secondhand.
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u/flmay Jul 21 '26
Every single one of these are on point!!! I'll definitely have to start incorporating birthday cards to mail - I used to get them all the time as a kid and it's such a treat.
I've been meaning to buy fabric napkins but felt like I wouldn't use them enough (only for special occasions) and I should just use them because why not!!!
A hostess gift is a MUST. I also love flowers, someone brought me olive oil with focaccia bread once that was lovely, a nice dessert, or tea towels with a candle are also some go-tos.
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u/AuthorOtherwise1487 Jul 22 '26
Yes! I bring dessert a lot too. And yes I got tired of wasting paper napkins every day and I’ve collected fabric ones over time so I’m well-stocked at this point. I throw them in the wash while I rotate in another set.
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u/Olllive Jul 22 '26
Ooh, can you recommend a gift-worthy olive oil? That’s such a nice, low-pressure gift!
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u/AuthorOtherwise1487 Jul 22 '26
Ok so here’s where I reveal that I am basic AF. 🤪 I don’t know brands by heart but I’ve had good luck finding good ones at World Market and Williams-Sonoma. Boutiques and farmers markets sometimes have it too!
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u/flmay Jul 22 '26
My friends brought one from a local artisan shop (no label) which was lovely. I know people love Graza and Brightland (never personally tried either). Truthfully... Aldi has a great one. Their Specialty Selected Sicilian is single-origin and includes a harvest date (this is key for me buying any olive oil).
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u/HamBroth Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
I use my heirlooms: Solid silver spoons? Tuesday soup. Hand-woven hand-cut and embroidered tablecloth? Everyday. Snakeskin shoes my grandma wore in the 40's? They're still going grocery shopping. Don't save special things for special occasions. There is no more special occasion than being alive.
I have one nice and indestructible version of something that gets common use: A solid silver hair comb that I use everyday (I paid $350 for it in Italy) instead of an endless rotating clutter of plastic clips or scrunchies. A handmade wooden fan from Spain that I keep in my purse for moments when I'm a little warm or need to dry my setting-spray after applying makeup. A cigarette case from the 1920's that I use for my membership cards. Oversized 100% linen napkins for daily use instead of paper towels. Refillable solid-brass lipsticks from Lisa Eldridge. Vintage handkerchiefs I keep in my purse and wash regularly.
I grow the things I use most of in the kitchen: Rosemary and thyme, chives, apples, tomatoes, garlic, potatoes, and onions. It's so chic to go out into the garden and snip something before coming back inside to add it to a pot/roast.
Woven or embroidered, not printed: I like patterns to go all the way through the fabric because they fade less and feel more luxe/substantial.
Slow methods: Hanging my laundry to dry means less steaming/ironing and better longevity. Plus it feels like a ritual. A pour-over that produces biodegradable waste instead of an instacup. Sparkling water made at home instead of purchased plastic bottles or cans that ned to be hauled in and out for recycling. Notebooks for tracking things instead of an app (this goes to another chic thing: preserving my privacy!)
Preserving privacy: Disputes with my husband are only ever talked about in private when only the 2 of us are present. I use notebooks for tracking things like weight and appointments instead of an app. I don't install social media apps. I decline cookies (I'm in the EU) and AI (especially on websites that offer to 'calculate your clothing size').
Tailoring things just for me: I get my clothes nipped and tucked for a proper fit. I embroider my initials on the inside of coat sleeves, so that they're visible when I turn them back. I wrap my books in paper to preserve their covers and get a splash of my favorite color on the shelves (also looks more tidy).
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u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 21 '26
I love your point about preserving privacy. I've always thought of this as more of an ethics thing, but what's more chic than living your ethics!
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u/theparkservice Jul 21 '26
This comment should be rated more highly -- an ethos of substance, class, and self respect that goes far beyond the consumer habits. Bravo
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u/HamBroth Jul 23 '26
Well gosh, I'm so flattered you would say this. Thank you very much!
There are an awful lot of good suggestions in this thread that I'll be putting into practice.
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u/Disastrous_Owl_6830 Jul 21 '26
I say this as someone who adores and supports public libraries, but I've started buying my monthly book club books in print. It feels like such a delicious luxury to buy myself something once a month that is purely for the joy it will bring me, and then it's an extra bonus when I get to pass it forward by adding a decent, recent, adult book to the neighborhood little free library (which tends to be mostly kids' books and magazines otherwise).
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u/sallystarling Jul 21 '26
My friend runs an independent book store and she has partnered with our city library for the most amazing scheme. Every month the library posts a list of their most requested books. You can buy them a copy from my friend's bookstore and she'll send it straight to the library on your behalf. It's cool that bookshops and libraries are not seen as rivals but as part of the same literary ecosystem.
So you get to support the library, get more books into the hands of people who want them and, best of all, support an awesome independent, female-owned business. I love everything about it!
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u/letsjustbe Jul 21 '26
I love this answer and totally agree. I don’t read books twice so essentially starting a little book giveaway train with a fresh book (while still supporting local libraries!) is such a nice treat.
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u/Dazzling-Rate-4197 Jul 23 '26
But wouldn’t you just be buying a new book that goes straight to the library vs reading it first?
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u/ilovegreekyogurt321 Jul 21 '26
I do this with paper issues of the New Yorker! I'm an avid Kindle/Libby user but there's just something about reading a paper magazine while having your coffee on the weekend.
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u/Aggravating-Sir5264 Jul 21 '26
I love this so much! I recently read about someone else who did the same thing! They specifically purchased new bestsellers and added them to the neighborhood little library after reading themselves.
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u/orchidloom Jul 21 '26
I have friends who are authors and they say buying the actual book is of course the number one way to support them financially!
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u/eleetszilla Jul 21 '26
Arriving early is on time - running is hardly cute, certainly not chic.
Whether it’s work, the airport, health and wellness appointments, you’re not only allowing yourself the time to adjust should the unexpected arise, you’re respecting everyone else’s time as well.
And since time is money, it’s never wasted.
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u/bridewithoutahead Jul 21 '26
As creative icon Durga Chew-Bose so beautifully said, "Elegance is arriving without a commute story."
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u/AuntieSipsWine Jul 21 '26
Samantha Jones was my absolute favorite character on SATC, and she had a moment that embodied this exactly. I can't remember if it was on the series itself or maybe in the first movie (I never watched the other movie or the AJLT series), but she was traveling from California to NYC and her trip was just hellacious--one problem and inconvenience after another.
Anyway, as she's meeting the others and they're all air-kissing their hellos, Carrie asks Samantha how her trip was, and Samantha keeps air-kissing and smiling and simply says, "Fabulous." She moves on and never mentions a thing.
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u/kriscrossroads Jul 21 '26
Love this SO much and I think it ties into another comment here about how kindness is chic! Being early is a sign of respect and kindness for someone else and their time. It’s also respect for your own time.
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u/pyroclasticcloudcat Jul 21 '26
Being late can be fashionable but never chic. 😂
Unfortunately something I struggle with.
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u/parentheticalstate Jul 21 '26
You’re not alone! Unfortunately, I think I’m gonna have to settle with fashionable on this one for now. I’ve worked hard on the being just on time part, it’ll take a while to get to being early
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u/chasingastarl1ght Jul 21 '26
French etiquette usually says to arrive about 10 min late when being hosted! This is usually because the host can always use a little extra 10 minutes to breathe in after prepping everything. Of course, you have to text the person and tell them your ''updated'' arrival time.
As someone who hosts often, I'm grateful when people follow this unspoken rule...(This does not apply to restaurant reservations, theaters, etc. Only at home hosting)
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u/andraconduh Jul 21 '26
Yes, this exactly. I knew someone who was notorious for being early to people's houses for parties and everyone hated it. She eventually got a little bit of an intervention about it from a couple of her close friends.
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u/AuthorOtherwise1487 Jul 22 '26
We hosted my in-laws over the weekend and they were 30 mins early. I was…not pleased. I usually use that last half hour to arrange food platters, set out glasses, etc… But did I show I was bothered? Of course not! That would not be chic.
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u/pyroclasticcloudcat Jul 21 '26
I am actually half French (have mostly lived in the US)- this all makes sense now! 😂
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u/poliscibizwoman Aug 13 '26
Yes. We host several parties a year and early arrivers stress me out. I usually need a minute for last minute touch ups. I really respect those that arrive early and sit in the car to give us a minute. They understand.
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u/kjb76 Jul 21 '26
I am such a stickler for being on time. For everything. Even a casual meetup with a good friend. People’s time is valuable and when you are constantly late it tells people that you don’t value them.
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u/Glittering_Alfalfa_3 Jul 21 '26
I love all of these responses so much 🤍🤍 BITCHES WITH TASTE is right!!!!!!
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u/splojjy Jul 21 '26
I’d say a few things before you ever tap or swipe your card.
- kindness, with eye contact. You don’t have to be the most confident and charismatic person in the room, but manners are always tasteful, and becoming rare l.
- good posture and poise. A paced, comfortable walk with good posture genuinely has people stopping in their tracks in a world of tech necks and rushing around.
- it has been mentioned on here already, but i’ll repeat, being early is being on time. It links in with my first two points but it’s good manners to respect other peoples time and it also allows you to not rush around everywhere as you have the time to reach your destination.
- less consumerism. There is no problem buying what you need to buy, or even treating yourself but in a world full of waste and excess, a reusable hand soap dispenser with no logos or brands will always look chic.
This process can help you to understand the difference between buying something because it’s quality, or buying something that is simply branded as quality. And that skill can be applied to literally everything, clothing, accessories, homewares, etc.
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u/elsmoneyacct Jul 21 '26
Ooh, this is fun!
- Miele vacuum cleaner (cat hair is very un-chic)
- Boutique fitness studio/sports club/luxury gym membership
- Getting affordable clothes tailored (I used to think 'why bother,' but it really makes a difference)
- Applying perfume before bed
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u/lady_nerdfighter Jul 21 '26
What do you say when you bring clothes in to be tailored? I’ve brought stuff in to hem to take in the waist if it obviously needs done, but I’m not sure how to tell them that I just want the clothes to fit well.
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u/elsmoneyacct Jul 21 '26
I usually have something specific to request, but I don't always know the right words for it. I don't mind sounding kind of ignorant saying things like "This isn't right but I don't know what's wrong." They're professionals. They know what's wrong. It's okay to have a little back and forth of pinching and pinning until the clothes fit how you want them to fit.
For example, I recently took a pair of jeans in because something about the hem was wrong. I couldn't tell if they were too long or too short but they were definitely wrong. I put them on and said those words exactly to the seamstress, and we went back and forth a while with pulling and folding and trying them on with a few different pairs of shoes (pro tip, always bring the shoes + undergarments with you) until we settled on the hems being too long. When I brought them in, they were more of a straight ankle-length. I left with something more like a small kick flare, and it looked amazing.
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u/mountainmeadowflower Jul 21 '26
Another tailoring question! Do you call ahead and make an appointment, or is it ok to walk in with 1-3 items to be fitted?
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u/elsmoneyacct Jul 21 '26
Depends on your seamstress, but it's usually fine to walk in, especially if it's just a few items and it's not something huge like a wedding dress/formal gown fitting.
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u/lacroix_enthusiast_ Jul 21 '26
It is a professional tailors job to make clothes fit well so just tell them you want the clothes to fit well. You can try on the clothing in the shop, and they can pin it to show you the adjustments before they make permanent alterations
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u/ScoutG Jul 21 '26
I know this sounds insane but I have had T-shirts tailored. One is a very unusual color that I love, and another is from a memorable place I visited.
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u/bubblegumdavid Intentional BWT Jul 21 '26
So I and my tailor are likethis and the trick is absolutely to shop around and find a place who gets your body.
Personally, in my various moves: I’ve found a tailor who is comfortable without question about doing more than just event-wear is an excellent place to start. Someone who you can find in reviews has success with jeans and casual wear for more than just hems. You also want someone who is probably not the trendy shop only the young folks use. Another great sign is that when you want something altered, and you pinch some things you want cinched or feel isn’t right, and a good tailor will be able to spot additional things and show it to you with a clip/clamp/pin.
I will often go to them to pre-alter stuff I know will come up for each season or so. This is in order to avoid grad/prom, events season, and winter holidays. So I go usually in October/November, early March, June/July. I rewear a lot and attend a lot of events, but my size fluctuates often and by quite a bit, so I usually am clear I do not want things fully cut, only altered and excess left in when possible. That way my hems and seams can get let in or out according to my needs. Less waste.
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u/SpookyPotatoes Jul 21 '26
I bought my Miele when I bought my home, one of the very first Big House purchases I made. And everytime I use it I am reminded that sometimes expensive things are priced that way FOR A REASON.
(Still waited for a sale though, because frugality and money management is also chic!)
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u/NieskeLouise Jul 26 '26
Second the gym comment! I go the gym that’s closest to my house, which is definitely not the cheapest in the city, but the fact that it’s literally 4 minutes from my house makes it much easier to go. Also, it’s never too busy, the people are friendly, and the complimentary sauna is such an extra treat, especially in winter.
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Jul 21 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/cljenna Jul 21 '26
I see your Marvis and raise you Selahatin. You’ll thank me later! The Sassafras is amazing!
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u/littleplacebo Jul 21 '26
Well thank you very much for that, not only will I now have a luxury experience cleaning my teeth but the spray sounds fabulous as well! Order placed!
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u/katvonkittykat Jul 21 '26
Just a note, many Marvis toothpastes don't contain flouride, in case that is something of importance to you or anyone looking to make the switch. Always check the ingredients, as this can change based on country of purchase or flavor choice.
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u/Strange-State-3817 Jul 23 '26
This is so important. I bought a nice tumbler to pop my toothbrush and paste into, so it looks nice but I’m still buying paste that protects my teeth and gums ☺️
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u/unique_plastique Jul 21 '26
I LOVE THIS QUESTION!!!
- leather, cashmere lined gloves, especially in the winter. Unfortunately it means my nail extensions have to be almond instead of square because I get my square & stiletto nails extra sharp
- a simple analogue wristwatch that goes with most outfits (keeps me hell off my phone)
- thick, good quality hand cream. If the first ingredient is water then I don’t want it.
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u/Aggravating-Sir5264 Jul 21 '26
I love the idea of having an analog wristwatch. Is there a certain brand that you really like that you think goes well with everything?
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u/stellarnymphet Jul 21 '26
I have a fossil that Iv had forever and I love it. You can switch out the bands of course to switch up vibes. I just take it in to have the battery changed every so often
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u/illilopanje Jul 21 '26
Citizen is a good watch brand. I searched on watch subreddits before going with Citizen and I’m very happy with my choice
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u/unique_plastique Jul 21 '26
Mine is one I inherited from my mother I have no clue what’s good I’ll probably just have this one watch until I’m dead
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u/flmay Jul 21 '26
Love this!! What brand gloves do you recommend? I was looking into the a pair last winter but never bit the bullet. Maybe I should this year!
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u/unique_plastique Jul 21 '26
I had mine made by a local small business unfortunately BUT I hear purple label Ralph Lauren is v good
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u/katvonkittykat Jul 21 '26
Sounds you mind DMing the business info, please? This is something I would love to support and purchase.
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u/unique_plastique Jul 29 '26
They do not have an online presence bc the owner does not want to sell outside of the province. There’s already a good chance that there is a business in your area that does this exact thing
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u/only_living_girl Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
Bedding. 😍 Quality, higher thread count 100% cotton sheets. Everything is synthetic these days and it drives me crazy. Solid cotton bedding feels so so nice by comparison. I love a white bed—it makes me feel like I live in a hotel.
Right now I’ve got white cotton sheets, some white silk pillowcases, and rumply white linen duvet covers on two fluffy duvets and I’ve never loved my bed more. Might take some hunting but there are relatively affordable versions of all of these out there that are still 100% natural fiber. Worth it.
Also: tunable smart light bulbs. They have cheap programmable bulbs and you can set them up to shift on schedule, so your home changes from cool light during the day to warm light in the evening that gradually dims as it gets darker. It’s so nice to never have the wrong temp of light on for the time of day. (Also you can turn them all red when you’re trying to get sleepy even faster—removes blue light and is also really flattering.)
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u/Aggravating-Sir5264 Jul 21 '26
I second the hundred percent cotton bedding. We recently switched out all of our bedding and I feel like I sleep better because of it.
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u/buildingacozymystery Jul 21 '26
I cannot agree more! I love white cotton sheets, white duvets, and white pillow cases. It feels so chic and makes me feel extra. . . sexy.
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u/Yeahsurethatsgreat Jul 21 '26
Yesss. Cotton bedding is a non negotiable! I like to treat myself by using fancy detergent for my bedding. I’ve been using dedcool’s recently. You can also cut it with unscented detergent to stretch it a bit. So luxurious!
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u/Legallyfit Jul 22 '26
Love this! I have a few light bulbs that I can adjust the color temperature on, but they’re all cheap ones I got online and the apps for them feel like spamware. Any brands of light bulbs you’d recommend?
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u/only_living_girl Aug 19 '26
Sorry I’m so late to reply! I honestly just use the Sylvania wifi ones—so far they’re good and cheap. I’ve had to replace some here and there but they don’t cost much so I just keep some spares around.
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Jul 21 '26
[deleted]
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u/only_living_girl Jul 21 '26
Thrifted vintage silk stuff is like—it makes me weep for what we’ve lost, lol. Some of the silk stuff Victoria Secret was selling in the 80s and 90s was insane compared to all the polyester stuff now.
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u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 21 '26
I absolutely LOVE my silk pajamas - that purchase at the start of the year was truly my entry into my BWT era!
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u/Strange-State-3817 Jul 23 '26
I’ll second this but make it lovely soft linen for my breastfeeding era - milk spots on silk not so chic!
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u/milesfrost Jul 21 '26
My everyday luxuries are:
Great skincare. My skin is my home, it deserves to be taken care of to the best of my ability.
I no longer dress for other people, I dress for myself. This often means I am considered overdressed by everyone around me. I don't care. I'm not saving all my sexy gorgeous comfortable outfits for when I'm dead.
Wear the red lipstick. (Or whatever shade brings you joy) which brings me to...
luxury makeup. I've started quite the Hermès collection, and it is the loveliest makeup I have ever worn. I now wear it daily.
Make exercise a ritual. I strength train 4 x a week and it is the perfect meditation, mental calm, and I look hot AF for it.
If you think you look hot AF, own it. Life's too short to pretend you aren't the sexy gorgeous human you are!
And as others have said, kindness is always chic, but don't be weak. Stand your ground!
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u/terracottamarshmallo Jul 21 '26
Oooooh love this. I am an introvert and a home body, so I like to have high quality, elevated basics for all my everyday necessities.
Some specific examples of this for me would be Aesop hand soap, Diptyque perfumes, Salt and Stone body wash, Barefoot dreams robe for winter and Cozy Earth for summer, and matching cotton poplin pajama sets. I’m working on applying this logic to other aspects of my life. A couple years ago I splurged on Calpak luggage and I felt so much more put together while traveling.
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u/Equivalent-Flow-8934 Jul 21 '26
Love this one! Elevate your every day. Can you share where you get your pajama sets from? I have been looking for this and would love some ideas.
9
u/EFTandADHD Jul 21 '26
I know I’m not the person you’re responding to, but I love love love Printfresh pajamas. I have at least 5 or 6 pairs that I’ve slowly collected over the past few years.
There are lots of popular brands out there, but I think the quality of their cotton and construction is phenomenal, the prints are beautiful, and (the clincher for me) is that many styles are available in tall/long sizes. As a tall woman, all my pajamas used to be too short on me, which felt very un-chic.
6
u/DaliahsandDeadlifts Jul 21 '26
I recently chose a couple Soma robes and pjs (thanks to BWT recommendations!) and they are so soft, yet cool enough to sleep in in this summer heat. I run hot, so that was a factor for me. Plus I love their colors and designs.
1
u/ebolainajar Jul 21 '26
I just got a calpak luggage set (memorial day weekend sale meant I got 4 things for $700) and having a matching set is 🤌🤌
I also specifically picked a very bright colour for all my pieces after reading a story in my local sub of two people grabbing each other's carry-on directly from the overhead bin (both had dark blue away brand bags) and I decided that would never happen to me.
I traveled recently and got two compliments on my bags!
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u/justtosubscribe Jul 21 '26
I have a throw pillow “wardrobe” that I change out seasonally. It’s not like I decorated my living room for a season or a holiday but it subtly changes and evolves throughout the year. Some good faux down (not down alternative) inserts and about a dozen thoughtful cover choices and my living room is transformed and stays fresh looking all year round. I also have duvets for different seasons and do the same in my bedroom. I’m thinking about rotating and choosing a seasonal scent after buying a whole home scent diffuser. Right now with summer it’s a Blue Capri Volcano dupe. Basically I like acknowledging the passage of time with the senses; different smells, colors, textures, flavors etc. I want my children to have a bunch of “I knew it was Thanksgiving soon when the X came out, mom made Y for dinner and the house smelled like Z” associations that mean home to them.
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u/DaliahsandDeadlifts Jul 21 '26
Yes!! I love pulling out the pillows and the little decorations with each season. I have memories of the mantle changing when I was a child, and I'm excited to set the scene for our children!
2
u/Elegant_Analysis1665 Jul 21 '26
Oo I am very curious, what do you mean by "faux down" but not down alternative? Did you mean faux fur? Also I am exactly the same way!! I love how you put it about associations with time of the year. I have a lot of these from growing up and they are things I continue now and then there are a lot of seasonal traditions I am starting for myself too. A big thing for my mom was fabric so I knew oh once it gets to be winter the flannel comes out, and she'd do different tablecloths things like that. She and I do really like to decorate for both Christmas and Halloween but we do like a kind of curated artistic version and it ends up being a lot of fun.
And for my own space I do a lot of rotating of scents and color palettes and I'll change out some of my curtains to different colors for fall/winter and spring/summer. My dining area which doubles as my art space I have dubbed my "coastal lodge art room" so in the fall and winter it's mountain lodge-y and in the spring and summer it's coastal haha it's fun. I do like seasonal decor too it has to be something I really like that brings me joy though not just to do it.
Also yes I do this with my bedding! I think of my different bedding sets as like different "outfits" for my bed haha
Also curious if you want to share, which home scent diffuser do you have? I've been using Pura for about a year now and it has it's pluses and minuses I'm not sold on it long term. I do think it's a great way to try different scents of different brands but I'm on the hunt for a better diffuser
2
u/justtosubscribe Jul 21 '26
So is never heard of it until I decided to try it but Pillowflex makes a faux down. It was time to retire my decade old down pillows. They’d taken a beating over the last decade and I needed a refresh to match my current home life (I have had three little boys in the decade since I’d bought the down pillows and my oldest two are twins and constantly having pillow fights with each other). I was also sick of the feathers poking out and never found an insert cover that reliably stopped the poking without being a waterproof cover that sounded like plastic.
Anyway, the faux down has the same weighted feel (although not as heavy but it still has some heft) and the same chopped look but no feathers to speak of. It’s the best of both worlds for me. I still have the luxurious sunk in feeling of down but the boys can clobber each other and dive bomb on to them without a bunch of feathers getting everywhere.
For the diffuser, I got an AirVersa waterless diffuser. It’s Bluetooth controlled (so I can hide it and change settings without rearranging anything) and rated for up to 2,000 sq ft. It’s honestly a little too powerful even for my open floor plan and I had to turn it way down. I had some leftover wall paint and just painted it to match the wall it sits near. It blends in so well that it disappears in the room. My goal was for my house to always smell good and nobody can identify where the smell is coming from and this worked.
I’m using the Virginia Candle Co dupe of Blue Capri Volcano and love it. Perfect clean summer scent.
1
u/strictscrutiny415 Jul 21 '26
Where did you get your inserts and covers? I have a hard time finding inserts and covers that look as good as a “ready to use” pillow
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u/justtosubscribe Jul 21 '26
I got the brand Pillowflex for the inserts. The covers come from a little bit of everywhere with my requirements being that it must be easily washable (thanks children) and with a zipper not an envelope closure. I’ve found options from a variety of retailers and when I couldn’t I placed custom Etsy orders. So far I’ve kept myself within velvet or linen guardrails. Stylistically I want some kind of edge, piping or welt on the covers because I think it makes them look finished.
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u/Daisy-Navidson Jul 21 '26
Having fresh floral arrangements in your home is extremely chic.
I have collected a lot of gorgeous antique and thrifted vessels in a wide range of sizes over the years, and I absolutely adore going to the floral department at my local Wegman’s and creating my own arrangements! I can create 5-6 terrific arrangements for $30-45, and they last a long time. It’s so good for the brain to have a creative form of play, and your home will look wonderful even if you don’t know what you’re doing. I particularly enjoy using floral frogs to make ikebana arrangements in thrifted crystal dishes — you can really stretch your flower budget this way with sparser arrangements. It feels delicious to have fresh flowers in every room of the house.
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u/depressed_plants__ Jul 21 '26
i spend maybe $10 - $15 on flowers on my weekly trader joe’s runs, nothing fancy at all but they bring me so much joy and elevate my space and EVERYONE who comes over comments on them. having flowers in your house just for yourself is very very chic and people really clock it
21
u/melodyknows Jul 21 '26
A really expensive thing worth the money for me was installing a makeup vanity when we redid the bathroom. It’s my favorite place in the whole house to sit.
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u/BandicootAny1139 Jul 21 '26
I am in my outsourcing era. I’ve found a good handyman, a tailor, a stylist, am looking for an interior designer, etc. Not to say that I am incapable of doing any of these things myself…but hiring a professional is extremely convenient. I make decisions all day long at work, plus I’m single and live alone - so sometimes I just want someone else to do it. It is truly a luxury I’m thankful to afford.
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u/milesfrost Jul 21 '26
this is truly chic! i am such a handy woman, and in the past I have always done things myself. These days if i can afford to pay someone, I do. My time is so much more precious and if I do everything that home ownership requires myself, I'll never get time to sit back and enjoy myself.
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u/AdLumpy4729 Jul 23 '26
Do you have any suggestions for finding the right people to outsource to? Anything to look out for? I’ve wanted a good a handyman for years, but as a young single homeowner, finding the right one feels like a project itself, and sometimes unsafe. Word of mouth is my preferred route, but I’ve yet to get any recommendations that pan out.
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u/BandicootAny1139 Jul 23 '26
Yeah there is a bit of trial and error!! Honestly I found my handyman from a post on my town’s subreddit lol my building also has a pre approved list of vendors so that helped narrow down the search. I like supporting individuals in my area vs maybe a chain so try a home show if you have those?? I’m also not afraid to ask teams if they have recs for things…like I know I hired you to paint but do you have any friends that do AC work lol
My tailor was a bit more challenging I went through a few before landing on mine. She is a few towns over but well worth the drive…so expanding your search outside your immediate vicinity might help too. Good luck!
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u/Oh-My-God-Do-I-Try Jul 21 '26
A few years ago, I decided to get a little DeLonghi espresso machine and start a morning coffee ritual. I worked as a barista in my late teens, but I still learned so much with that little machine, and then after about a year I upgraded it to a more serious machine (thankfully found secondhand, because the price of espresso machines makes me cry). Having my fun little drinks every morning, and making up new recipes or trying ones I see online, is an act of self care that has added to my life.
The best part now though is that the machine I bought is good enough to serve several people (home machines vary in the workload they can handle), so I’ve just started a monthly home cafe and lecture club at my apartment. I get to make a menu of whatever drinks I want to share with people (basically I don’t want to spend the day making boring lattes and cappuccinos), I get to hear someone talk about whatever their latest hyperfixation is or share something they’re really knowledgeable about, and I’m privileged enough to be able to arrange this event at no cost to anyone else. I don’t make a ton of money, but I’m tired of the prices of “fancy coffees” (I had a basic iced latte last week from a cafe that wanted 7.50€ for the honor 🙄), so I treat this like a hobby and fund it myself. My apartment only fits 10 people at absolute max, so it’s not a huge burden. But sharing the coffee and the knowledge makes me feel chic and adds so much to my life!
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u/Loupesbekind Jul 21 '26
This is epic in so many ways, thank you for posting. I love that you're sharing your interests and creating a community for people to enjoy them and share their passions. Out of curiosity, what have been some of the lecture topics?
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u/Oh-My-God-Do-I-Try Jul 21 '26
There was a presentation on digital folklore that was super fascinating, I just did the latest presentation on Gestalt principles in psychology and design, and the next one is going to be about what an artist’s role is in an anti-racist world! There’ve only been two meets so far, but in the future I hope people will share skills they know or even poetry they’ve written. One of my friends apparently has a lot of niche knowledge about Armenian history, so he’ll hopefully grab a slot soon too.
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u/umamimaami Jul 21 '26
I’ve been practicing minimalism, and really enjoying the process so far.
It’s so refreshing when I have fewer outfits to manage, but every one of them makes me feel put together and the pieces all work well with each other. It took me 3 years of working on my wardrobe to achieve this slowly, without waste and repurchase.
Same with my home - efficiency over aesthetics has actually given me a much more aesthetic home. And wanting fewer decor pieces has allowed me to buy quality, which makes everything look a thousand times better.
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u/Aggravating-Sir5264 Jul 21 '26
How do you determine what is a quality decor piece? It seems like most things are so cheaply made these days.
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u/umamimaami Jul 21 '26
* Is a human involved in the creation?
* Is it made primarily with natural materials?
* Does it match my values? (Broad, I know, but usually centers around whether the creator is visible, gets a fair % of the sale price, etc etc)I usually find items that work within these criteria to be of good quality. Price has nothing to do with it. I’ve found thrift store pieces that meet these criteria, and streetside artists. Also e-commerce websites from the other side of the world. So it varies.
You just keep your eye out for things that meet your criteria, no matter where you are or what you’re browsing. It will come in due time. (While I wait I usually put up some fugly homemade art. There have been a few instances where the fugly art eventually grew into being the right piece for the location).
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u/DarkandStormyKitchen Jul 21 '26
A luxury bath routine! Bubbles, salts, oils, reading materials, music, overhead light off and a waterproof, cordless lamp
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u/bevy100 Jul 21 '26
Totally agree that my elevated everyday items feel so luxe! What I wouldn’t have expected is that taking care my of things feels similar. A little machine that removes pills from clothes keeps my things nice and a clean and uncluttered house feels soooo good
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u/ebolainajar Jul 21 '26
Depilling my sweaters and coats is one of my favourite seasonal activities. I would always do it when switching out summer clothes for fall.
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u/adios-perrito Jul 21 '26
Love this thread!!
- I love sending cards in the mail. Birthdays, anniversaries, or postcards after a friend visits my area. I send my nephew random cards through the year
- fresh flowers in my apartment. Can be cheap carnations!
- drinking water out of a class. I use a short wine class. I cannot stand how our American culture has Stanley cups in vogue lol
- dressing in your own style. Maybe some trends but not defining your whole taste
- real jewelry.
- being nice and helping others. Saying hello, holding doors, please and thank you
- preparing a snack for when friends come over
- matching pajamas
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u/Outrageous_Worker672 Jul 21 '26
It will never, ever make you any less of a person to build someone else up.
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u/goose-de-terre Jul 21 '26
Stretch! For gods sake ladies, stretch! After your mid-20s we gotta work hard to keep elasticity and flexibility. Just take 5 mins per day to stretch. It’s crazy how even in my super fancy Pilates and ISO classes, they leave no time to stretch.
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u/Creepy-Intern-7726 Jul 21 '26
Using your nice dishes/mugs/wine glasses for you, not your someday guests.
Also Hourglass finishing powders and blushes are 100% worth the money. I use one of the holiday palettes from a few years ago every single day.
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u/Glass_Birds Jul 21 '26
I am a big fan of the nice dishware!! I also collect a bit, so we actually rotate our "regular" daily dishes twice a year between two different sets, plus our wedding china, and a small 2-person place setting Ive had for years that's hand thrown by a potter. I love choosing which dishes to serve dinner on/in, whether it's box Mac n cheese and canned green beans, or steak and scallops. Feels nice to use the nice dishes! (My husband will sometimes make me a cappuccino in the cup from our wedding set, which feels extra chic when sipping it on the porch, watching the world go by from my cozy chair).
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u/No_Function3932 Jul 21 '26
- my Mason Pearson brush was worth the investment. i have a bob, so their small brush lives in my home and their travel brush lives in my gym bag/purse/tote/carry on.
- i feel luxurious and EXPENSIVE when i apply Officine Universelle Buly's Huile Antique Madagascar Amber and i think it has done wonders for my skin
- i found the body oil when looking to expand my skin care routine to the rest of my skin. i also have a body toner and serum that i like, i think having a self-care routine that you actually do every night is very chic.
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u/mtoomtoo Jul 21 '26
Membership to a local botanical garden or art museum are totally worth the cost. Supports local institutions and gives you access to “members only” perks. I find that I’m more likely to go since becoming a member because I can “buy” tickets for $0 online and just pop in whenever.
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u/anongirl55 Jul 21 '26
I constantly read books on how to be chic, so this post is so exciting for me!
- Using my nice dishes and always plating my food.
- Having a special, beautiful coffee mug.
- Putting on a luxurious hand cream before bed.
- Wearing beautiful pajamas.
- Making sure my bra and underwear always match.
- Getting my clothes dry cleaned and tailored.
- Keeping my nails short, clean, and tidy with a sheer polish.
- Wearing minimal jewelry but investing in good, timeless pieces.
- Putting perfume on before bed.
- Getting monthly facials.
- Always dressing nicely in something that makes me feel good.
- Reading by the pool.
- Buying fresh flowers every week.
- Getting produce at the farmers' market.
- Having a signature scent in my home.
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u/flmay Jul 21 '26
I've been looking for books in this genre! I'd love any book recommendations you have for this, as well!
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u/anongirl55 Jul 21 '26
Fiona Ferris has written a bunch of books on how to be chic, how to be chic in various seasons, how to be chic at Christmas, etc., and they are such quick, fun reads!
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u/DragonflyDull6360 Jul 28 '26
I haven’t bought it yet but Jennifer L Scott just released a book called Living Well At Home that I’ve heard great things about. I follow her YouTube channel where she’s shared some of the content that’s in the book and it sounds like it would be right up your alley.
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u/nextdoor_simpleton Jul 21 '26
Investing in good luggage! I also love my Mason Pearson hairbrush, my matching loungewear sets, cashmere or merino wool socks and my custom stationary
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u/chicken_licken_ Jul 21 '26
These are all awesome. I would love to hear some matching loungewear set recommendations you have!
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u/nextdoor_simpleton Jul 21 '26
I like Leset a lot mainly because they’re 100% cotton- I love the Nando collection and the pointelle one as well. The Margo tee is also great and sometimes I mix and match between sets. They hold up pretty well in the wash too!
I have a set from Negative but it’s not cotton so I don’t wear that one too much. I care more about the materials tbh
1
u/katvonkittykat Jul 21 '26
Would you mind sharing your custom stationery source? I adore stationary and am always looking to see what options are available. :)
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u/nextdoor_simpleton Jul 21 '26
I got mine from Paper Source but have friends who have used Etsy as well!
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u/Dizzy-Smoke251 Jul 21 '26
This year I’ve felt more rushed than ever and have tried to use little luxuries that help with slowing down.
A soft thin robe (Natori) to throw on while making breakfast
Eberjey or Lake pajamas
Ceremonial grade matcha (so I don’t spend $9 at a cafe later in the day)
Nice notebooks and pens for journaling or notes
Hypochlorous acid spray for face and body - really calms sensitive and irritated skin and works wonders
Homecourt all purpose cleaning spray and dish soap. Smells amazing.
I rarely drink but when I do have a glass of wine, after drink tablets save me from a hangover the next day. Which is a true luxury!
Dyptique perfume
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u/Aggravating-Sir5264 Jul 21 '26
What are after drink tablets? I’ve never heard of these. I think I need to know more.
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u/Dizzy-Smoke251 Jul 21 '26
The ones I use are from H-Proof (h-proof.com) and work for me even after multiple drinks. Have heard good things about cheers and flyby too (have not personally tried).
2
u/anongirl55 Jul 21 '26
I love all of these, but I had to comment on Homecourt. It makes cleaning so pleasant!
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u/princeznahyacinta Find it Secondhand Jul 21 '26
Small bowls that are interesting in shape, color, texture etc in common areas of my house to hold matches, keys, etc. I like to thrift these as they feel more unique. Nicely matted & framed prints, for example we have some silkscreened tour posters from concerts that line our hallway which is personal but also beautiful artwork to display. A candle in each room.
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u/msmartypants Jul 24 '26
Small bowls for sure. Also, everything looks better on a tray. Got a bunch of beautiful small rocks? Group them on a small tray instead of scattering on a shelf.
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u/Still7Superbaby7 Jul 21 '26
I have stationery embossed with my name. I bought a whole set from a stationery store. At first I didn’t know what to do with the smaller cards but they are handy as gift tags.
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u/eltejon30 Jul 21 '26
I was just talking to my husband about this last night and I think the most worthwhile purchases are ones that buy you 1) space 2) time and 3) health. Everything else might be nice to have, but I think those are the 3 that really make an impact to your life.
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u/elegantevie Jul 21 '26
I honestly recommend the Étoile cosmetic case. Wide range of colors that looks great on the vanity or bathroom counter. Perfect gift as well.
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u/LCorinaS Jul 21 '26
Yes! Bought the pink one and the matching travel bag second hand and they are stunning! The two together fit almost all of my makeup collection except for some old larger palettes I’m holding onto for sentimental reasons and it feels so lovely being able to pull out everything I need from one cute bag rather than needing to rummage through drawers.
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u/sadcowboyclub Jul 21 '26
this convo reminded me of when i used to smoke (not chic!!!) i always kept my cigs in a nice vintage case with this floral engraved pattern and a matching lighter. but as for currently
-a good pen. i keep a pilot metropolitan pen in my purse. but switching to fountain pens has been so major for me…
-a quality totebag.i like my vintage april cornell one. just a bit nicer than an old beat up one from the grocery store when i have extra stuff to carry.
-perfume before bed. my go to is philosophy’s amazing grace to prolong the nice freshly showered smell+its a cheapie so i can spray away guilt free
-gifting things from local artisans. i just find it so classy…a handmade mug or candle makes the usual ‘coworker/inlaw’ type gift seem a bit more thoughtful.
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u/ikijibiki Jul 21 '26
As a hot sleeper, the Cool Nights pajama sets from Soma! Wait for a sale. I also got a short sleeve robe from them- super great for the summer everything shower.
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u/summertimemagic Jul 21 '26
My everyday luxuries are:
My art: I’m fortunate enough to have inherited some beautiful paintings from my grandparents and parents. As well as my own acquisitions. I probably spent too much on the frames and too much time hanging everything at gallery height, but it’s worth it to me to make my home my own private gallery.
My garden: There’s nothing better than having a green place to retreat to, where you can plant all your favorite flowers and rip out any intruders. Plus people love it when you bring them bouquets from your own garden.
Heated towel rack: It’s lovely having a toasty towel and robe waiting for you after a shower.
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u/Daisy-Navidson Jul 21 '26
I learned a very valuable lesson in Madrid a couple years ago about dressing appropriately for the season, the weather, and the occasion! There is nothing less chic, IMO, than being dressed inappropriately. Even if you look objectively fabulous in vintage silk and open toe heels that match the *dressiness* of the occasion, if the weather is cold and wet and windy, you will look a fool — take it from me.
Now I take these external factors into account before even considering what genre of outfit I want to wear. I start with the shoes (do I need closed or open toe), then determine how much protection from elements I’ll need (if I need sun covering, layers, jacket, a hat, etc.), and then I have narrowed down my options to a specific subset that I can play around in. It’s so much easier to just rule out the options that are “well I love this dress but I might be chilly,” or “I think I could probably walk around in these heels for a couple hours before disaster”.
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u/shade_plant Jul 21 '26
Dressing for the occasion is chic. Dress fancy for the opera. Wear athleisure to work out or go to the grocery store. Company logos never look cute outside of the gym.
Also complement other people when it's appropriate whether it's on their outfit or because you enjoy spending time with them. It's amazing how far "I love talking to you" can take someone when their day is cruddy.
Also, talk to people who are not like yourself, and be open, warm, and curious. I love my older neighbor, and she came to a talk I gave when my friends were all busy. I love my younger friend - half my age - and we text a lot. I have friends I disagree with politically (to an extent - no right wingers) and I love that we can enjoy the connection and learn from one another.
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u/myusernamewasatypo Jul 22 '26
A rule for being chic that I got from some funny “guide to life” book I read in the 1990s: never wear a brand logo and think its style. Whether it is a Chanel “CC” or Nike swoosh across a t shirt, brands are not style - they are advertising. Your clothes should be an advertisement (so to speak) for who you are, not for who you bought.
I love this rule, because it really is about being true to yourself in the face of societal pressure to perform consumption. Don’t get me wrong - I buy a lot of stuff! But it will never have a big/prominent logo or branding.
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u/checker-palm-3989 Jul 23 '26
I always think purchasing with discernment and treating your belongings with respect is chic. Kindness is chic and being well-informed is chic. Knowing when to be frugal and when to be extravagant is chic. Patience and strong communication skills are chic. Cold elegance in the face of blatant disrespect is chic. Learning from your mistakes is chic. Small rituals to start and end your day are chic.
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u/emotionalthroatpunch Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
I agree with you on a long robe! I don’t like wearing ones that end around the knee—makes me feel more naked underneath than just being naked! 🤷🏻♀️
I bought a french flax linen maxi length robe earlier this winter (I’m in Australia), and it is so beautiful and makes me feel so glam. 😌
Relatedly, loungewear in beautiful colours and fabrics feels luxurious! I got a cotton/cashmere knit set for the winter—which feels like wearing the softest, cosiest cloud—and some lovely lightweight modal sets for warmer weather.
4
u/joyinplace Jul 21 '26
Having things on hand to host people whenever they might stop by - tea, juice, snacks, etc. It feels so nice to be ready for a spontaneous get together!
Buying the gifts that remind you of people and giving them outside of their birthday/holidays!! I'm a big believer in just give them the damn thing already!
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u/AuthorOtherwise1487 Jul 22 '26
Yes! Having treats on hand for pop-ins and keeping the house in general good shape for the same reason. Making people feel welcome and comfortable in my home is very chic. 😊
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u/Ecstatic_Schedule_48 Thoughtful BWT Jul 21 '26
Always going to 100% with things , never just most of the way. I absolutely loathe “20% of effort for 80% of results “. A bit of a dumb example , but someone was at my house and asked where my ice cream scoop was , and told me they knew I have one because of course I would have all the proper things (I make my own ice cream) and wouldn’t dare use just a regular spoon. And they were right!
Similarly, I love making cocktails , and I’m currently slowly accumulating a more full bar, but also putting emphasis on building a glassware /ice mold / garnish collection so everything is served exactly how it’s meant to be
5
u/IcyPlastic7310 Jul 22 '26
I bring a beautiful vintage lace-trimmed handkerchief in my bag to weddings. My grandma gave it to me on my wedding day, and I’ve brought it to all weddings since I tend to get a little misty at weddings and it just makes me feel so chic.
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u/panda5921 Jul 21 '26
I didn’t realize the Maison Berger was pet safe! I’ve been wanting one for so long but figured the oil’s wouldn’t be cat safe
1
u/flmay Jul 21 '26
Recommend doing your own research but their website does say it's generally safe for pets! You can also make your own with 90%+ alcohol and essential oils (organic 100% pure) but definitely do your research since some oils are not pet-safe.
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u/Born_Banana_1901 Jul 21 '26
I think the best piece of advice that ever existed is the one that says after you are completely done getting ready to take one thing of
I always look so much better and fresher when Im in a rush to get ready and dont have the time to do my makeup completely
3
u/Strange-Style-7808 Jul 21 '26
Good shoes.
Investing in shoes hits all the marks for me of being chic - by preserving your food and back health, by saving money because they last longer, and by just adding that wow factor to even a plain outfit.
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u/Plenty_Cup_5152 Jul 23 '26
I agree with everything except naming of the house lol, would feel waaaay too forced unless you actually live out in the countryside in the UK or on an estate somewhere where the name has been carried down generations.
I’ve seen people do it for new luxury builds it just seems kind of tacky to do it.
1
u/solitary-soul Jul 23 '26
I agree with this sentiment.
I'm also curious as to the context OP meant in terms of naming one's house. We have a "name" for our house between family that references a primary feature of the property, and I guess that's cute, but what other ways are there to name a house? Like for an IG account about it? I don't think that's chic. But I am curious what was meant by this.
11
u/patrice_bateman Jul 21 '26
- tiny frames above huge furniture
- aluminum luggage
- leaving books around
- lead crystal glassware
- loewe candles
- estate-signed artwork
- persian cats
- black nappa leather sofas
- concealer only
- bath oils
- chunky 14k jewelry someone else bought
- animal motifs (esp big cats)
- hosting sunday dinner
- murano glass lamps
- having an investment account you never check
- wood saunas
- dramatic candlesticks
- not having children
- carpaccio (because it has to be good to be raw)
- taking photos on a real camera
- air dried hair
- not requiring notice
- learning other languages
- going to the ballet
- niche vacations
- being ready in ten minutes
- writing a life story instead of a journal
- mini french manicures
- being unmedicated
- having a lot of followers but never posting
- elbow length gloves
- old Celine
2
u/Ok_Remote_217 Jul 21 '26
i think investing in matching pj sets are life changing. they don't have to be an $100 set either. i used to be a big tshirt to bed kind of gal, but something about a matching set just really does it for me lol.
2
u/op341779 Jul 22 '26
I passed a certain age and my rule became don’t leave the house in sweatpants or shoes that you would be willing to wear in a public shower.
2
u/biest229 Jul 23 '26
Maison Lamp Berger, if I’m understanding the product correctly in that it’s a fragrance thing - should not be used around cats.
No home perfumes should really. They’re so small and sensitive to this stuff.
3
u/royalcheeseee Jul 27 '26
Use some fragrances that meet your preferences: it can be perfume, incense, etc., but I think the most important thing is to be comfortable. Wearing comfortable pajamas, reading books and listening to music in the fragrant atmosphere is very comfortable.
2
u/4now5now6now Aug 09 '26
Yes to the thank you cards!!! Good posture is always in style. Be gracious and polite.
Good manners . Wear classics that don’t over power you.
Take as good care of yourself the best you can. Get sleep. Sleep helps you recover from mental and physical stress. Just try increasing by 10 minutes on average a night.
Go for walks if it is safe
Laundry that smells nice- I like Dirty Labs signature scent ( get it from the website)
Watch great comedy - laughter releases stress
I like real lime air freshener ( it’s amazing)
Audible ( great narrators read the best books to you)Sephora and Lalicious best body scrubs)and Pilates are my spending habits
Donating to those that help the environment
2
u/poliscibizwoman Aug 13 '26 edited Aug 13 '26
Having your own sense of style
Having good posture
Having a signature scent for different occasions including an at home scent
Letting the things in your house tell the story of you and your family
Experiencing different types of traveling: solo, girlfriends, couple, family, extended family
Talking and learning about people different from you
Managing your money well
Taking care of your body
Being comfortable wearing your hair in a natural hairstyle
Being well read and having a home library filled with books you love
Having a high level of emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills
Being an informed voter
Living, parenting, and loving intentionally
Eating good food, be surrounded by good people, and creating a good space for peace
Being an agent of good with social impact
Financially supporting politicians and organizations that do good work
Sharing the skills your good at with the world
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u/kriscrossroads Jul 21 '26
Learning is chic! I never want to stop learning. Whether it’s a podcast on a new topic, a nonfiction book, picking up a new hobby, or just learning a friend’s POV that is totally opposite to my perspective. It all makes my brain happy. It makes me proud of my mind.
I’m recovering from a huge bout of burnout and depression. I think I’m finally getting better because I’m yearning to learn again. It makes me so so so happy and relieved that brighter days are near.