Birthdays are the time when you take stock and reflect on your life. And since Beauty News NYC just turned a gorgeous 22 years old, we asked our stylish, resourceful, and discerning editors from coast to coast to reflect on their current favorite things. Dive into our assortment of everything from matchas to the finest face mist and more.
1.
An Epic West Coast Bookshop
One of the coziest and most wonderful spots in Los Angeles—and one of my favorite locales—The Iliad Bookshop is a haven for book lovers and collectors alike. It’s no modern bookstore with thoroughly organized shelves and room to spare in the aisles; instead, books tumble over each other from floor to ceiling. Piled on overstuffed bookcases, carts, and tables, there are pieces of literary treasure everywhere you turn. And with $1-2 shelves in the back, an absolutely squashy couch in the seating area, and two cats roaming the store, an already delightful bookshop is made perfect.
Isabelle Bryan, Staff Writer
2.
The Happiest Hour in Midtown
Good prices on drinks? Check. Deals on tasty snacks? Check. A buzzy bar scene that reminds you why you live here? Double-check. Docks in Midtown East absolutely nails Happy Hour. Somehow, it’s surprisingly easy to wash away the workday woes with a glass of sparkling cava and a dozen oysters at the horseshoe bar. For round two, a draft beer pairs nicely with the crispy shrimp. The only catch? This popular Happy Hour is far from a secret, and the place gets packed! Get there early to grab a stool and see what the hubbub is all about.
Amy Hamblen, Staff Writer
3.
Most Flattering Pillow Talk
This is the single most flattering lipstick shade I have ever found. As someone who is accustomed to putting on a pretty pink lipstick only to find that it looks orange or brown when applied, I had nearly given up trying to find something that looked the way I wanted it to. Most makeup is warm-toned nowadays, so finding this gem of a cool-toned lipstick has been life-changing. Pillow Talk Fair also comes in lip liner and gloss form.
Catherine Bialkowski, Staff Writer
4.
A Curl’s Best Friend
As a curly girl, I’m a bit of a hair care maven. And for seven years now my favorite brand has been Camille Rose Hair Care. From their curl maker gel to lavender deep conditioner, Camile Rose is my go-to for any wash day. They use natural ingredients and a little goes a long way to keep my Afro luscious all summer long!
Sonjirose Chin, Staff Writer
5.
Pure Passion
It’s a well-known fact that I am a girl who loves my scents. And lately, my favorite perfume has been HighOnLove’s first-ever fragrance, Pure Passion. Not only does Pure Passion arrest your senses like a fresh bouquet (hello, Turkish rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang), but the bottle’s design is so striking, it could live as art on display in your home. Check out its BN NYC Official Editor’s Choice Award.
Gemma Lolos, Editor’s Choice Director
6.
For Stationery Lovers
Syme’s Letter Writer: a Guide to Modern Correspondence is a stylish exploration into the lost art of letter writing. Inspired by a handbook penned by a persnickety Victorian, letter writer, Rachel Syme created a lifestyle guide for today’s stationery and snail mail ethusiasts. Learn vital skills such as how to write a letter like a poet or how to build a postcard collection. The words you write on paper to someone hit different in this digital age. This book shows you to make them a beautiful and resonant experience.
Georgia Andrews, Staff Writer
7.
Pup Art Print
My favorite home décor idea is the Dog Overload Print. It’s a piece of art that brings cheer to an office space, kid’s room or any spot that calls for a happy vibe. If you need a gift for a coworker you don’t know well, or perhaps a birthday present for a vegetarian sister who rescues animals, then this artwork could be perfect. What truly makes the Dog Overload Print special is it’s by Cassandra Berger, a talented New York-based artist who designs for books and television. You can get it as a canvas print or poster from Redbubble
Sharon Gomes, Senior Staff Writer
8.
Wearable Art
Embrace light-infused artistry with LUX MEDICINA – a new line of wearable art designed by UK-based artist Lotte Karlsen. Step into the transformative world of LUX MEDICINA, where art meets fashion. Joggers, Eco Hoodies, Sweatshirts, tees and fanny packs – all inspired by the healing potential of light. Made to order, LUX MEDICINA art wear encourages mindful consumption, embracing sustainable practices to ensure each item is as meaningful as it is beautiful. This is more than clothing—it’s a movement, a reminder of the light within. Each piece in the LUX MEDICINA collection by artist Lotte Karlsen is a wearable canvas. Follow Lotte on Instagram @artistlottekarlsen
Katie Cercone, Staff Writer
9.
Face-Saving Mist
I was blessed with years of oily skin. It primed my skin for aging and gave me a glow that I made the most of. Now that my skin is balanced, face mists give me similar effects, and I always carry one. Evian’s plain water and Trader Joe’s rosewater were my go-to’s until I discovered Kiyomi Skin with 5-ALA’s Face Mist. A few hydrating pumps save my face every time. I love its awakening citrus scent and the rich dew it provides anytime you need to reset. Get to know Kiyomi Skin here.
Kalisha Buckhanon, Staff Writer
10.
Top Lip Oil
Even though the indie sleaze vibe is back my makeup look is clean, sleek, and sexy with the Lip Treatment Oil from Ami Colé in Romance. It’s deliciously smooth and luscious with a high shine that’s long wearing.
I adore the plush, large doe foot that coats my lips in two swipes. This just-bitten maroon shade is subtle enough for jeans and a tee or can be layered to exude baddie-yet-cutie energy.
Sonjirose Chin, Staff Writer
11.
The Marvelous Matcha Latte
For matcha lovers who love an adventurous twist, the Beauty Matcha Latte from Kroma Wellness is the best way to start a morning ritual. It’s the perfect choice to get a dose of energy in the morning without the jittery aftermath. This rich, creamy morning beverage elegantly balances sweetness and spice. The ceremonial-grade matcha is swept with notes of turmeric, ginger, maca, goji berries, and collagen. It gives your body the warm hug it needs to start your day with intention.
Danielle Coppolla, Staff Writer
12.
A Signature Polish
20 years ago, my boyfriend impressed me when I teasingly asked him to guess my toenail polish color. Without peeking, he answered: “Bubblegum pink” It could have easily been Queen Elizabeth’s mainstay, Essie’s Ballet Slippers. Who knows? Any gorgeous soft pink shade on my toes has been one of my lifelong signture looks. Enter a new fave: Cracked’s matte Oversized Bow (Read the Beauty News interview with Founder Monique Weller). It’s a winner for my understated mani/pedi style and coco complexion. Most importantly, it’s durable. No matter if I do deep-clean housekeeping and spa Sundays. Most polishes can’t survive two Sundays but this one does!
Kalisha Buckhanon, Staff Writer
13.
Two Gold Hoops and a Holler
The Extra Small Gold Tube Hoops from With Olivia Grace are the perfect everyday accessory. These earrings have a modern minimalist aesthetic that make them ideal for work, travel, or special events. Both comfortable and chic, their understated elegance and high-quality craftsmanship are unmatched. The Extra Small Gold Tube Hoops are the finest start or addition to any jewelry capsule collection.
Danielle Coppolla, Staff Writer
14.
Pup Friendly Hotel
When I stayed at Hotel Z in San Diego, I loved its whimsical touches and the fresh feel of the decor. The hotel is a member of Staypineapple, a collection of boutique hotels founded by Michelle Barnet. The brand is known for its Naked Experience, a style of bedding with ultra-comfortable double duvets, and for its pup-friendly packages. I can’t wait to check out another Staypineapple location–especially knowing the founder and Chief Pineapple Officer is a woman.
Amy Hamblen, Staff Writer
15.
Mmm Donuts
Peter Pan Donuts is my favorite place in all of New York City. The donuts are the best I’ve ever had—soft, sweet, and always fresh. The coffee is hot, the prices are low, and the people behind the counter are always kind. It feels like stepping back in time. I don’t need anything trendy or fancy, just a good donut and a quiet moment. I’ll sit on the curb with my coffee, watch the world go by and feel completely content. It’s simple, nostalgic and reminds me why I love this city.
Brigid Presecky, Staff Writer
16.
West Village Cafe
My favorite cafe in the city is The Elk in the west village (and elsewhere). They have fresh, delicious sandwiches, tasty peanut butter cookies, a super-friendly staff, quality matcha, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. I highly recommend this cute place, tucked away on Charles Street near the Hudson River.
B Kim Taylor, Publisher
17.
Empowering Jewelry
CONQUERing combines fashion and functionality with truly unique and gorgeous fidget jewelry designs. My favorite items from CONQUERing are my spinner fidget rings that reveal sectet positive messages like are “You Got This” and “Breathe” while spinning. Check out its BN NYC Official Editor’s Choice Award.
Gemma Lolos, Editor’s Choice Director
18.
Next Level Chocolate Shop
Håkan Chocolatier in the Hudson Valley town Beacon was designed to be a chocolate speakeasy. This confectionary atelier and lounge tempts you with jewel-like bon bons in vibrant, glossy tempered shells. Their flavors are unexpected and ever changing so be sure to visit more than once. Plus, there are stellar salted caramels, tablets of chocolate, and even protein bars. And don’t sleep on Håkan’s baked goods. Try their cardamom rolls, pain au chocolat, and the best oatmeal cookie on this side of the Hudson River.
Georgia Andrews, Staff Writer
19.
Brooklyn Brainery
Want to learn how to mix a cocktail? How about starting a side hustle? Or the Shashiko art of mending clothes? My favorite spot to learn something new from a diverse offering of classes is at Brooklyn Brainery. There are also online classes if you can’t make it to their two locations in Brooklyn (Park Slope and Prospect Heights). 
Even more special – the folks who run Brooklyn Brainery also foster cats that they’ve rescued from the neighborhood through Cat Republic. That’s why this community driven establishment is truly a unique and inspiring place to learn!
Sharon Gomes, Senior Staff Writer
20.
Rose Petal Black Tea
Floral teas aren’t for everyone. Sometimes, they aren’t even for me. However, The Tao of Tea’s “Rose Petal Black” has consistently proved an exception to that rule. Strong, sweet, and aromatic, it’s perfect for a mealtime accompaniment or an at-home tea party. Personally, I’ve found it goes especially well with morning scones. And, as someone who loves interesting containers, the tin is just as delightful as the tea it contains. With a secondary inner lid to keep the tea inside fresh, it’s enormously fun to open every time I go to brew myself a cup.
Isabelle Bryan, Staff Writer
21.
Amethyst Dream Mat
Imagine working out or doing the vinyasa thing on a mat enhanced with healing infrared wavelengths from over 25lbs. of pure amethyst crystal. The heat generated from the amethyst is deeply soothing and warming for your body – working immediately to support healing. Turn on the negative ions function to shift your cells into ‘Happy Mode,’ a state of induced deep relaxation. Merging modern technology with the ancient healing properties of stones on a holistic path to wellness for body, mind and soul, Clearlight’s Amethyst Infrared PEMF Mat is a safe, easy and portable way to boost the body’s cellular function and overall well being. Amethyst crystals have long been used to address a variety of health issues ranging from sleep disorders, mental stress, and chronic pain. Featuring the crystal associated with royalty, this Amethyst mat makes a regal addition to any home, apartment, studio, spa, gym or RV!
Katie Cercone, Staff Writer
22.
Long-Lasting Lipstick Perfection
One of my favorite activities in the world is laughing, which often starts with a smile. Although I don’t always wear mascara, I often wear lipstick — and sometimes I only wear lipstick. Ilia’s lipsticks are creamy, long lasting, and come in a flattering array of hues. They won’t make you laugh, but they will make you look better while doing it.
B Kim Taylor, Publisher
