Design by Kayleen Dicuangco
Hint: They make excellent holiday gifts.
By FASHION Staff
Date November 24, 2022
When you ask a fashion or beauty editor if there are any products they’re currently obsessed with, you better be ready to take notes. With inboxes inundated with news about all the latest launches, samples to drool over at photoshoots and products to test drive, you can trust these professionals to sift through the sea of knitwear, handbags and hair products, and report on only the best. (And hint, hint: these editor gift picks make exquisite presents to give and receive this holiday season). Here, FASHION’s intrepid team of shopping-loving editors share their very favourite new products (and experiences) of 2022, from designer purses and sculptural jewellery to the most special lipstick and unforgettable spa sojourns.
Ivy Tang, market and social media editor
Balloon Pumps
($1,550, Loewe)
“I’ve been obsessed with these shoes since they came out on the runway in March. As an avid shoe girl (same, Carrie, same), these heels are fun and absurd, yet surprisingly wearable because of the classic shape of the pump. And it doesn’t help that I’m seeing them on all the cool girls on social. So if anyone wants to gift me these dreamy shoes, I will love you forever.”
Ivy Tang, market and social media editor
Hinoki Hydrating Body Oil
( $75, Tatcha)
“I’m a fan of Tatcha’s skincare, so when they announced the launch of their body care this year, I knew I had to try it. I recently got into body oils, specifically for their smooth textures and quick absorption — and this one is no different. The woody scent of Hinoki mushroom and cedar makes you feel zen while providing moisture and a subtle glow all day.”
Bernadette Morra, editor-in-chief
“The two most tempting launches for me this year are the Tiffany & Co. lock bracelet and the 25th Anniversary Fendi Baguette. I tried the bracelet on at a Tiffany event in Toronto in September and it fit in perfectly with the other bracelets I wear every day — almost like a long lost sister who finds her way home. And I missed the Fendi baguette craze the first time around because I was expecting my boys and the only bag I was buying back then was a diaper bag. In red sequins, this could be my holiday party bag for life. Now that I think of it, one of the limited edition Hermès Rouge lipsticks would go perfectly with this purse. So that’s pretty tempting too!”
Bernadette Morra, editor-in-chief
Baguette Mini
($3,890, Fendi)
Bernadette Morra, editor-in-chief
Rouge Hermès, Matte lipstick
($93, Hermès)
Natasha Boateng, beauty director
“I’ve been using this Paris-based haircare brand since May and my coils are loving it! The star ingredient in the seven-product lineup is hydrating prickly pear oil — which is incredibly rich in vitamin E and omega 6 — derived from a cactus and sourced by women’s co-operatives in Morocco. From the Co-Wash to the Intense Care Mask (which I regularly use as a leave-in) to the Multi-Use Care Oil, my hair is always left with a soft-but-strong feeling. Also, with its focus on curls, I love how this brand is broadening what the narrow ‘French-Girl Beauty’ aesthetic looks like. Bonus: The packaging is stunning.”
Natasha Boateng, beauty director
“This fall, I did a spa getaway to Niagara-on-the-Lake and it was the perfect little overnight trip to relax and unwind. I booked into the newly expanded 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa, which is situated right in the heart of the historic town and surrounded by shops, pubs and restaurants. The hotel’s revamp includes Spa at Q, a 12,000 square-foot oasis where you can enjoy a full menu of indulgent facials, signature body treatments and mani-pedis. The spa also features a skylit hydrotherapy circuit (think sensory showers, hot and warm pools, a large sauna and a steam room — there’s even a unique snow room), which you can enjoy by itself or add to a treatment. P.S. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to visit the spa, which makes it a great itinerary addition when soaking in the town’s wineries, art museums and live theatre.”
George Antonopoulos, creative and fashion director
“I love how timeless this crossbody bag from Bottega feels. It’s the perfect size to wear under a blazer or coat, or exposed over a hoodie. The classic woven design makes it an instant forever piece.”
George Antonopoulos, creative and fashion director
Pet Collar
($420 USD, Gucci)
“My dog deserves the best! This collar from Gucci is made from animal-free, raw and sustainably sourced materials. And the gold hardware and G charm are just enough minimalist bling.”
George Antonopoulos, creative and fashion director
“This gold-plated statement chain is inspired by Adonis (the Greek god of beauty) and it’s made in Toronto! I love supporting local businesses. It’s also available in a white gold finish, perfect for accessorizing any look. Bonus: It has a lifetime warranty!”
George Antonopoulos, creative and fashion director
Oversized Sweater with Jaglion Motif
($298, BOSS)
“A cozy, oversized BOSS sweater in an animal print and crafted from a wool and mohair blend will keep me warm all winter long.”
Annika Lautens, fashion news director
Bai Bubble Tea Sunglasses
($95, Maguire)
“Sunglasses are a no-brainer gift — everyone uses them and inevitably loses them. So restock their sunnies selection with this pair from Maguire. Not only are they super trendy (Y2K anyone?), they’re also super functional, as the dark lenses will protect even the most sensitive of eyes. Don’t believe me? I wore them all throughout Iceland.”
Annika Lautens, fashion news director
“Anyone else still obsessed with Barbiecore? When this collaboration between Canadian designer Hilary MacMillan and the iconic doll came out, almost every piece was on my wish list. But in the end, I purchased this pink midi dress and have felt like I’m living my very own Barbie movie ever since. Margot Robbie who?”
Jennifer Berry, digital director
“I honestly don’t know how or when it happened, but suddenly I’m ready to store all my gold jewellery and frost myself exclusively in sculptural sterling silver. This statement bracelet from beloved Canadian jewellery designer Jenny Bird is the perfect finisher to pair with my chunky winter knits, or to peek out under a blazer cuff.”
Jennifer Berry, digital director
“This stunning asymmetrical bucket bag from new-to-me Danish brand Aesther Ekme is giving The Row at a fraction of the price. And by pairing the rich chocolate brown leather iteration with an ensemble in various tones of caramel and toffee, I can live out all my chic minimalist fantasies.”
