The sanctity of a clean bathroom populated by beautiful products in a world where the icks are abundant and lurking around every dusty corner, cannot be understated. We’ve all been privy to that dreaded moment of entering someone’s bathroom and encountering an empty soap tray on the sink and glimpsing a single bottle of three in one shampoo, conditioner and body wash perched on a shelf in the shower. On the other end of this spectrum the current obsession with beauty and self care culture, combined a spike in targeted advertising on social media, has spawned a draconian fanaticism with skincare routines that often results in an excess of clutter and impulse purchases that end up gathering dust in random drawers. Among the barrage of “must buys” we encounter on a daily basis some are just plain bad, others are just plain boring but effective and a rare few are not only effective but also able to excite the senses and trigger an enthusiasm for the ritual of beauty purely by their physical presence. These are cosmetic creations worthy of the top shelf, a range of products that pique one’s curiosity and hark back to the timeless elegance of the old school powder room.
Kindred Black Savannah Viper Lip Oil, £76
Made from a careful selection of natural oils, the vermillion elixir is housed in a hand blown glass vial that looks straight out of an alchemist’s lab. It comes with a glass wand applicator that glides smooth and cold along your lips lavishing them with the nourishing liquid. A ritual of opulence from start to finish. Its sensual organic form and striking colour make it a real stand out in any line up, plus the experience of using it is truly an ode to the art of beauty.
Byredo Tears in Rain Mascara, £45
Byredo Tears in Rain Waterproof Mascara’s shapely deep blue case instantly attracts curiosity and attention with its objective ambiguity. It is a spaceage dream on the outside, simultaneously organic and alien, on the inside is a miraculously water resistant lash formula made from 89% natural ingredients. With its otherworldly edge and seductive curvature, this is definitely a mascara that will liven up more than just your lashes.
Hermes Limited Edition Red Lip, £45
A classic red lipstick is an essential edition to any cosmetic collection and the ability of a red lip to elevate any look is a historical fact that should never be underestimated. This Hermes red comes in a gorgeous gradient case with a white top. No loud designer logo, just a classic Hermes gold seal on its underside and a brand inscription on the lipstick itself. It is simple and chic, effortlessly imbued with a sense of quiet luxury. Whether it’s on display in the boudoir or the bathroom it’s simply too sexy for the confines of a cupboard.
Officine Universelle Buly Eau Superfine, £37
Officine Universelle Buly is a Parisian institution. An enchanted apothecary founded in 1803, Buly stores and products have managed to sustain their distinctive old world charm throughout the centuries and this is reflected in the look and feel of their products. Buly’s Eau Superfine is a refreshing toner that promises to combat any signs of dullness and activate a youthful complexion as well as purify and protect the skin from urban pollutants. The bottle is a whimsical object with metallic trimmings and decorative finishings centred around a mythical tableau. This ethereal spritzer is perfect for zhuzhing things up with some Belle Epoque glamour.
Dries Van Noten Soie Malaquais Chesnut and Silk, £260
Inspired by the silk dresses in the Quai Malaquais boutique this product is a sumptuous offering of porcelain capped off with a patina metal lid. It is elegant, exotic and feels as though it would not be out of place in a powder room in Versailles. The fragrance features notes of vanilla, chestnut, silk, bergamont, and cocoa. A re-fillable bottle that brings an air of refinement to any lacklustre countertop.
A botanical tonic for dry skin containing a careful selection of Italian neroli, Hawaiian sandalwood and Japanese Hinoki. Although intended as a hand cream it may be applied to both face and body for a protective hydrating boost, soothing for all skin types and free from harsh chemicals and parabens. It comes in a metallic tube along with a custom Monastery coin logo key to help you benefit from every last drop. The tube itself has a quality of industrial sophistication, a silvery simplicity that compels one to squeeze it whenever it’s in sight.
It’s all Fluff Amphora Bronzing Powder, £44
These beautiful hand engraved cases are a collaboration with artist and tattooer Samy Baby. Each design is completely unique and inscribed with a specific narrative. The object itself is reminiscent of a lucky stone brought home from a beach in outer space or even an ancient talisman. Its reflective surface and smooth tactility beg for display. The bronzer itself is vegan and cruelty free and contains natural oils with soothing anti-inflammatory properties. It comes in a range of four different shades and is perfect for achieving a glowy natural look. With its shiny sculptural form, this object d’art is sure to elevate any shelf by its sheer presence.