We write about hundreds of products each week. Here, in our version of the Sunday circular, we’ve plucked some of our recent favorites: expert-recommended essentials, life-changing stuff you didn’t know you needed, newly launched gizmos, and very good deals we uncovered while trawling through the vast online-shopping universe — including a candle that comes with its own playlist, our top-rated black turtleneck, and a lesser-known Adidas sneaker.
The joggers Carson Kressley has washed 1,000 times
Carson Kressley never thought he would be the person “wearing a Lululemon-like athleisure pant,” but now he can’t live without these joggers, he says, adding that they are “stretchy and comfy” but still looked tailored enough for a put-together travel outfit. “I don’t want to look like I’m cleaning out my basement even when I’m on an airplane,” Kressley says.
A pre-workout tincture for a “runner’s high”
As part of our “My Week With” series, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso tested various products from Joggy, Ty Haney’s line of CBD formulas designed for before and after exercise. (Or, as the brand calls them, “plant-based energetics for full-spectrum activity.”) This tincture, known as Runner’s High, contains CBD, THCV, and alpha pinene, which have an energizing and focusing effect, Pariso says. Although she noticed little difference in her energy levels during multiple workouts throughout the seven-day trial, Pariso says she learned that cannabinoids “are highly personal to your particular body.”
The Italian treat that tastes like an espresso martini
Strategist contributor Caroline Weaver admits to having “undue excitement for Italian things,” including Pocket Coffee, which she “calls the perfect portable caffeine-and-sugar kick.” Inside each box are five individually wrapped chocolates filled with liquid espresso that Weaver says gives her “a late-afternoon boost” and “satisfies that 3 p.m. craving for another cup” of coffee.
Non-cheesy lingerie for the valentine eager to spice things up …
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Cuup has launched two new colorways — fiery carmine and lively fuchsia — as seen in our roundup of things that’ll almost definitely sell out. All the stylist-beloved DTC brand’s best-selling silhouettes are available in the new hues, such as the Balconette, the Thong Modal, and the Plunge Bra, which Strategist writer Latifah Miles says makes her feel super-sleek under her clothes.
… Panettone for the one who prefers something sweeter
February 14 is fast approaching, and if you’re trying to find a wallet-friendly gift for your S.O., look no further than our guide to the best on-sale items that would each make perfect Valentine’s Day presents. This Milan-made chocolate loaf will impress the gourmand in your life (and maybe you’ll even get to enjoy some too).
Airport shoes that aren’t Crocs
The latest installment of Chris Black’s column sees him answering a query about airport fits that aren’t overly schlepp-y. Black suggests a cashmere crewneck sweater, twill pants, soft merino socks, and these low-top Adidas shoes. While they are “less popular than the Samba or Gazelle,” he says, “this pair in tonal brown synthetic suede is very wearable.”
A candle with an accompanying Spotify playlist
When we compiled our list of Black-owned businesses to shop, candles came up again and again, so we decided to round up all the brands we’ve written about before with some additional recommendations from scent obsessives. Cavo stands out because each fragrance includes a playlist inspired by the scent. This one, for instance, is soundtracked by artists like Ann Peebles and Solange and, appropriately, has notes of rainwater, lavender, vanilla bean, and bourbon.
A chameleon-like turtleneck
As seen in our guide to the best black turtlenecks, J.Crew’s Tissue is our top-rated pick and the “only black turtleneck worth buying,” former Strategist writer Chloe Anello says. Hilary Reid, another former Strategist writer, counts it among her favorite turtlenecks because it’s “face-framing” and a classic that can read as “slightly kooky art teacher, New England preppy, or French casual.”
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
