This Is the MC 50

“Have you ever seen a bag and instantly fallen in love? That's how I feel about this purse. Michael Rider's Celine is everything I could want and more, speaking directly to my inner preppy Virginia vibes. Plus, the supple leather combined with the subtle logo make for the perfect work bag.”—Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief

“Some investment products aren't just worth it—they're leaders in the category. That's the case with Symthson, whose best-in-class planners are gilt-edged dreams of soft paper and luxurious touches. Truly, the satisfying scratch of your pen against the pale blue page makes any to-do list feel feasible.”—Jenny Hollander, Digital Director

“Is there anything more fanciful and wonderfully indulgent than a luxury Jenga set? If there is, I have yet to find it, and frankly, I'm not mad about it. This design transforms the game into a stunning display piece and an instant conversation-starter any time you have guests. The only question is—do you dare to actually play?”—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director

“Simply put, we are not talking about this watch enough! The small size specifically, in the two-tone, is the perfect everyday investment watch that will stand the test of time (sorry, pun intended). With a big birthday on the horizon, I know what I'll be buying myself to celebrate.”—Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief

“The polished Miss Z pumps give you height while being a tad more comfortable than a few of its predecessors. I’ve been eyeing this chocolate nude shade, and, given the fact I've been extra good this year, I'm hoping Santa comes through for me.”—Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

“No workwear wardrobe is complete without a double-breasted blazer, and Veronica Beard’s Claude Dickey Jacket ranks high on my list of favorites. Designed with a slim fit and a nipped waist, it's perfectly structured—plus, it’s covered in a timeless plaid print, so it’ll last season after season. There are countless ways to wear this piece, but I’d recommend pairing it with wide-leg jeans, bow-adorned ballet flats, and a leather laptop bag.”—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor

“Nothing lifts a winter look like a pop of color. This bubblegum-pink knit brings instant brightness, and never fails to make a statement.”—Montse Tanús, Art Director

“I work from home, so technically, nothing can stop me from attending meetings and writing articles in my comfy-cozy pants (i.e. pajamas). Believe it or not, I'd choose these Uniqlo wide-leg pants over PJs any day. I'm the proud owner of all five neutral shades, and I wear them all week long. One extra short-girl perk? Uniqlo offers in-house alterations for my fellow shorties, which means the perfectly-tailored trousers arrived on my doorstep, instantly ready for wear.”—Meguire Hennes, Staff Writer

“I found a new wardrobe workhorse this year, and it's this shirt from a special J.Crew collaboration. I've dressed it up for a more formal black-tie moment, and I’ve worn it with jeans and a blazer to after-work events. Pro tip, if you buy one: Monogram it à la Chanel runway for an extra special touch.”—Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief

“Longchamp’s Le Rosseau Tote deserves as much hype as Le Pliage, and then some. It ended my years-long quest to find a work bag that doesn’t feel like a work bag. The grained leather, bucket shape, and jewelry-like closure are so much more elevated than the plain black totes I’ve carried for years; this is a bag I don’t mind schlepping to drinks or a movie after work. And on the inside? It’s equipped for my commute with space for a laptop, Kindle, and makeup bag.”—Halie LeSavage, Senior Fashion News Editor

“When I tell you I’m obsessed with Aritzia’s cashmere collection, I mean it with my whole heart. The brand’s polished crew cardigan is cut from 100 percent cashmere, so it’ll make you feel like you're wrapped up in a plush blanket. I’ll wear this sumptuous layer to work with a pair of tailored trousers and loafers; for weekend outings, I’ll style it with relaxed jeans and sleek ankle boots. Bottom line? It can rise to any occasion, which makes it the perfect everyday essential.”—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor

“I don’t think my 1,000-word ode to Sézane’s Clyde Trench is enough to express how heavily my wardrobe relies on it. This is the Platonic ideal of a trench coat: pairs-with-everything neutral, spacious pockets, waterproof, and just a tad oversize. (Which, in colder months, means you can still get away with layering it over a turtleneck and a chunkier knit sweater.) When you order your first, you’ll understand why it launched with a 100,000-shopper waitlist—and why people like me end up buying a second, and even third.”—Halie LeSavage, Senior Fashion News Editor

“It took a trip to Japan and a visit to Muji HQ to discover that the brand makes my new favorite white T-shirts. The cotton is deliciously soft, and the fit is perfectly drape-y. I've been layering mine under sweaters and button-down shirts, but I can't wait for warmer weather to wear it solo for the ideal minimalist look.”—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director

“I own about 20 jeans—no exaggeration—but Madewell’s Curvy Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jeans are my absolute favorite. What makes this pair so special is its silhouette, which features a contoured band and extra room around the hips. It’s made with a cotton twill fabric that’s structured but not overly rigid. If you’re looking for a comfortable set of jeans that’ll effortlessly cycle through your outfit rotation, do yourself a favor and buy these. Feel free to thank me later.”—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor

“I’ve amassed plenty of Reformation staples over the years, but the Eloise knit dress is the rare piece that instantly became that dress for me (and the one I immediately sent to my friends and family, because it’s just that good). It’s super flattering, with a deep-V neckline that feels subtly sexy. Plus, the fabric is buttery in a way that makes it feel more like elevated loungewear than a formal dress. I’ve worn it with kitten heels for dinner and with simple flats for a casual day, and it somehow works for both. It’s easily one of the most versatile pieces in my closet.”—Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

“I’m a firm believer that earrings are the ultimate finishing touch, so there’s not a day that goes by when I don’t wear a pair. My latest baubles of choice? These Jenny Bird earrings. Not only are they surprisingly lightweight and comfortable, but they instantly make my look more elevated. I also can’t stress enough how well they pair with every. single. outfit.”—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

“I went to high school in the 2010s, when Coach bags were the currency of cool. It didn't matter which bag you had, as long as it boasted that brass C or logoed canvas. Cut to 2025, and Coach bags are cool-girl calling cards once again—and this time, I'm lucky enough to be part of the club. I have the Empire Carryall 34 in rich chocolate brown, and the east-west style has become the only bag I reach for on the weekends. It fits my wallet, keys (secured safely with an interior strap and key clip), Kindle, water bottle, and a spare pair of sunglasses. Functionality aside, my favorite part is that my inner tween, who was ever so desperate to fit in with the cool crowd, finally feels included.”—Emma Childs, Fashion Features Editor

“For years I've searched for the perfect black ballet flat—the one that requires little breaking in, that you can walk for miles in, that goes with everything. I've had some stops and starts, but I think I've found my match in Margaux's The Ada. It's designed for a glove-like fit, but the black nappa leather still looks slick and elegant. The one-inch block heel is an added bonus for someone who stands proudly at five-foot-nil.”—Ana Colón, Interim Style Director

“Like many New Yorkers, I’m forever in search of that 'off-duty model' street style. Enter this Ralph Lauren hat: equal parts chic and practical, stretching out my no-wash hair days while adding a preppy, polished touch to my weekend ’fits. I prefer the tan colorway, since it works year-round—from breezy summer beach days (paired with a linen button-up) to crisp autumn afternoons (atop a trench coat) to chilly winter coffee runs (in athleisure and oversized wool coats).”—Neha Prakash, Entertainment Director

“After losing too many beloved pairs of cute shoes to New York City’s uneven sidewalks and cobblestone streets, I’ve recently rekindled my relationship a more sensible footwear style for getting around: a trusty pair of Salomon sneakers. This brand survived its peak trend phase and has become a staple for commuters in the city. They’re the shoes I reach for when I’m on a mission and just need to get stuff done. I’ve relented that just because you can frolic around the city in a pair of kitten heels doesn’t mean you should, so, for now, my kitten heels are decor for my closet, not my feet.”—Yracema Rivas, Graphic Designer

“I had an epiphany a few months ago that my acne-prone, super oily skin is actually very dehydrated. As such, I decided to elevate my toner game by incorporating La Prairie’s Skin Caviar the Mist into my routine. It’s the single best decision I've made in a long time. This spray is lightweight but deeply hydrates the skin, and the glow I get after doing my routine is undeniable. Is it pricey? Yes. However, this is a skincare product that truly helped to transform my skin, so I will be keeping it in my routine moving forward. I can't recommend it more if I tried.”—Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer

“Pat McGrath Labs’s Hydrating Essence has me in a chokehold because this two-in-one product keeps my skin glowing, even when I’m on the move. If you’ve ever wanted soft, supple skin, consider this product. It’s super hydrating, gives your makeup the smoothest canvas, and it’s my go-to on no makeup days when my skin needs nourishing. This will forever be my skincare staple.”—Ashlyn Delaney, Associate Social Content Editor

“Getting in to your dermatologist for a laser treatment on a regular schedule can be tough—life gets busy! That's why I'm very pro investing in this cold laser device which, while pricey, actually delivers with consistent use. Incorporate it into your daily skincare routine and watch your epidermis grow firmer, brighter, and more sculpted after just one month. I keep mine at my desk to get my glow on between meetings.”—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director

“My typically-oily skin has become so dry over the last few months, and this has been the only SPF moisturizer I’ve tried that actually hydrates. I love that the texture is soft and not grainy. Plus, it blends well without pilling or feeling greasy—even when I layer it on top of the other products in my routine.”—Danielle Jackson, Senior Beauty Writer

“In my years as an editor, I’ve done my fair share of testing buzzy skincare devices, but none have impressed me as much as Shark’s LED face mask. It includes two main treatments: Better Aging to smooth fine lines and firm sagging skin, and Skin Clearing to reduce acne and redness. There’s also an under-eye cooling treatment that feels wonderful after a long day. With under 10-minute treatment times, a surprisingly comfortable fit (despite its bulky size), and results I can actually notice, this mask checks all of my boxes.”—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

“I have very long, very fine eyelashes. (I know. Cry me a river.) Mascara tends to slide and smudge unless it's waterproof—and who wants to deal with taking that off? I've tried a million mascaras that looked perfectly good for two hours, four hours, half a day, but only Lancôme mascara makes it through the day without leaving so much as a mark. I recently branched out from Hypnôse (which I like, but can clog after a while) to Lash Idôle, which has never, not even once, clumped.”—Jenny Hollander, Digital Director

“There are few things I love more than a lip serum, and this silky-soft formula is at the top of my list. It delivers an incredible amount of color, lasts a shockingly long time, and it leaves your lips nourished and soothed with each wear. Whoever said your makeup can't function like skincare never tried this product.”—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director

“This powder breathes a stunning luminosity into my skin—the kind that looks natural, not powdered—which is why it's quickly become a staple for me. It softens shine without muting my glow, smooths everything out in a way that looks almost airbrushed, and never settles into creases or leaves that telltale chalky finish. It’s that rare, radiant powder I can use even on my oily T-zone, and it still manages to make my makeup look fresher.”—Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

“A little touch of everyday glamour, this lip compact delivers saturated color and a luxe sensorial feel. It’s the kind of product that earns a permanent spot in my makeup bag.”—Montse Tanús, Art Director

“I've worn makeup since I was 13, but I didn't find my dream setting spray until I turned 23. The L'Oreal Paris Infallible spray was worth the wait, for its 36-hour wear alone. If I wasn't loyal already, it cemented my makeup in place while my boyfriend (now fiancé) proposed to me, and not a single streak of black mascara covered my cheeks. This setting spray secured a customer for life.”—Meguire Hennes, Staff Writer

“At the end of the year, there's nothing I love more than to treat myself—or the people I love—with a splurge-y wellness treatment. Whether it's a facial or energy healing, Sage + Sound is my go-to spot. The environment is so calm and relaxing, and I always leave feeling like a new person.”—Andrea Stanley, Executive Editor

“I’m a firm believer that a daily dose of caffeine is good for the soul. However, spending almost $10 for coffee every day is not ideal, for my soul or my wallet. Determined to tighten up my budget, I decided to invest in an at-home coffee machine, specifically De'Longhi's La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine. This high-quality kitchen appliance is equipped with fancy features, like 10 pre-set recipes, an automatic frothing feature, and a nifty barista kit. At the touch of a button, I can make a delicious cup of coffee without breaking the bank. Yes, it’s an investment up front, but you’ll save your hard-earned cash in the long run.”—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor

“I’m someone who works out every morning before I start the day (annoying, I know). But since I’m not superhuman, I need a little push out of bed. Bloom’s pre-workout powder is that push. What separates it from other supplements on the market—and I’ve tried many—is its delectable flavors and ingredients. (I look forward to my workouts since it means I get a taste of raspberry lemonade.) And because it’s made with natural caffeine from green tea extract, I don’t feel like I want to itch my face off (IYKYK).”—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

“I'm coming to you live from my kitchen, where not one, not two, but five Owala water bottles cover my counter. (I even landed the 'Cowboy Carter'-coded Owala before it sold out last spring.) I've been curating my collection of the $30 bottles for two years now, but it isn't complete quite yet. My favorite model is by far the Freesip, which lets me sip from a straw or chug after workouts. Pro tip: Check out Urban Outfitters for rare, It-girl-looking Owalas not available at your local Target.”—Meguire Hennes, Staff Writer

“I ordered this LED mask right from one of our beauty team's articles earlier this year, and, as usual, the recommendation was perfectly on-point. If you're hoping to avoid or minimize the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, or even pronounced veins on your hands (the reason I bought this), Foreo's mask truly makes a difference. It attaches with a surprisingly cute gold bracelet so you can wear it while you type, and treatments only take between 10 and 15 minutes, so there's no excuse not to use it on the regular.”—Kristin Contino, Senior Royal and Celebrity Editor

“When my go-to book guru, Molly Young, recommended this, I knew it would be a good one. I'm obsessed with off-beat, micro-cultures, and this story set in an extreme Christian commune lives up to the hype.”—Andrea Stanley, Executive Editor

“Even the most devoted Love Island viewers won’t predict the twists in this delicious reality TV satire. That’s because the rules of The Compound—the titular game show in Aisling Rawle’s debut novel, where players complete increasingly unhinged tasks to build a private enclave—are devised to unsettle its contestants at every turn. Spend 304 pages in the mind of one of the participants, and you’ll never look at our 21st-century obsessions with online shopping and Big Brother-type surveillance shows the same way again.”—Halie LeSavage, Senior Fashion News Editor

“This memoir is Malala without the pedestal. It's vulnerable, curious, occasionally messy, and honest to the core. A great reminder that even icons are still learning as they go.”—Noor Ibrahim, Deputy Editor

“In 2025, I gravitated towards stories of adults going through major life changes that test everything they thought they knew about themselves. (Yes I'm going through my Saturn Return, what about it?) Emily St. James’s lovely debut novel juxtaposes the trans coming-of-age of a schoolteacher who just came out to herself at 35, and their 16-year-old student who’s navigating being openly trans in small-town South Dakota. If you’re a queer reader or ally seeking a book that feels like a hug, pick this up ASAP!”—Quinci LeGardye, Culture Writer

“Like cults? Heart-pounding suspense? A murder investigation set in the atmospheric Utah desert? You've come to the right place with Our Last Resort, the sophomore book by Clémence Michallon (of The Quiet Tenant fame, now being executive produced for TV by Charlize Theron and Blumhouse). The most jaw-dropping ride of the year, if you don't count our political climate.”—Jenny Hollander, Digital Director

“It’s hard to understand the magic of Sinners if you haven't seen it. Ryan Coogler’s first original film is a 1930s-set, horror-tinged drama that applies universal folklore like vampires and musical storytellers to the history of cultural exploitation and institutional racism. Over two hours, Sinners introduces us to a diverse ensemble of dreamers looking for a night of freedom, before burning it all down with the arrival of Remmick (Jack O'Connell), an ancient Irishman who wants to steal the magic of blues prodigy Sammie (Miles Caton, in his stunning debut). With unforgettable scenes like Sammie’s juke-joint seance, Sinners is the type of movie you watch over and over, to catch every new detail and revel in its cinematic love letter to the power of art.”—Quinci LeGardye, Culture Writer

“I can thank Dr. Robby (Noah Wyle) and his team of doctors, nurses, and residents at the Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center for having me completely hooked on TV this year. Between the real-time format (every episode takes place over an all gas, no breaks hour in the unit); the loveable (Whitaker, Dr. King, Dr. McKay) and hate-to-love characters (Dr. Santos); and the twisty but believable cases pulled from real-world events, The Pitt breathed new life into the medical drama canon when it had all but flatlined in pop culture. Season 2’s January premiere is already starred on my calendar.”—Halie LeSavage, Senior Fashion News Editor

“The revolution will not be televised, but One Battle After Another sure makes it feel like it could be. Any film from the legendary Paul Thomas Anderson is a must-see cinematic event, but his latest feels like a rallying cry for our times. Like its instantly iconic car chase in the third act, the film moves at a thrilling, frenetic pace. You could point to any number of lines and their reading, or perfectly crafted shots to speak to its rebel spirit. But I won’t long forget the profile of a pregnant Perfidia Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor) shooting a rifle or the silhouettes of skateboarders jumping from rooftop to rooftop when they’re called into action by their community network. At its helm, though, is a story about a father protecting its daughter; OBAA leaves you feeling energized to create a better world, too.”—Sadie Bell, Senior Culture Editor

“There's reality TV, and then there is The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. Now in its sixth and possibly strongest season yet, the Bravo series is more Shakespearean than it is a brain-rot guilty pleasure. You have self-identifying 'bad Mormons' who misplace $60,000 diamond rings, marry their step-grandfather (yup), and incite drama so mind-bogglingly ridiculous that it corroborates the old adage that truth is stranger than fiction. But you also have moments that tackle real, heartfelt issues reflective of the shared human experience, like female friendship, addiction, and religious guilt. RHOLSC is a show that has it all and will stick with you. (Some moved on, but I'm still thinking about the sprinter lab in the Beauty Lab parking lot—IYKYK.)”—Emma Childs, Fashion Features Editor

“Hollywood as we know and love it may be imploding in on itself, but at least The Studio lets us laugh through the collapse. Created by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the Apple TV+ satire is a navel-gazing, delightfully wild takedown of the industry’s so-called power players, boosted by some of 2025’s sharpest comedic performances (Chase Sui Wonders, Ike Barinholtz) and the most unhinged shroom-fueled cameos of the year (Zoë Kravitz, Dave Franco). Slick, hyper-stylized cinematography and L.A. mainstay filming locations give the chaos a gilded glamour, proving that the fastest way to become an awards contender is to roast your own ego. Just remember to thank Sal Saperstein when you win.”—Neha Prakash, Entertainment Director

“Like most, I was first introduced to Olivia Dean when her hit single ‘Man I Need’ started blowing up on TikTok. Since then, The Art of Loving has been playing on repeat in my headphones, soundtracking everything from my morning commute to making dinner in my New York City apartment. Its dreamy retro sound has a way of transporting me to somewhere else entirely. A standout song for me is ‘Baby Steps,’ which perfectly captures the experience of embracing your independence and finding a sense of self. My only complaint? It's not long enough!”—Christina DAmbrosio, Deputy Director, Social

“Bad Bunny's Debí Tirar Más Fotos, released at the top of the year, is a rare no-skips album. More than that, though, it was a true culture shift: The way he mixed genres (reggaetón with plena, salsa, and bomba), thoughtfully rolled out the concept (with a collaboration with historian Jorell Meléndez-Badillo and the endangered sapo concho into a sort of mascot), and hosted a record-breaking 31-show residency on the island ignited a fire within Puerto Ricans across the globe, to rediscover, honor, and uplift our history and cultural heritage. Every time I listen (and I listen often), I take something new away from it.”—Ana Colón, Interim Style Director

“I’ll admit that, even though ‘Espresso’ and ‘Nonsense’ are two songs that went triple platinum on my Spotify playlists last summer, Man’s Best Friend is the album that really solidified my status as a Sabrina Carpenter fan. Aside from the raunchy cover art that launched a thousand think pieces before the album even dropped, the whole project is a mix of silly, catchy songs with nostalgic melodies and fun lyrics about the harsh reality of dating men. It’s truly a 'no skips' album, but my favorite tracks are ‘House Tour,’ with its NSFW metaphors, and ‘Nobody’s Son.'”—Danielle Jackson, Senior Beauty Writer

“This year, Tyler the Creator shocked the music world by following up his most introspective album, Chromokopia, with a second drop just nine months later. The Los Angeles rapper’s ninth studio album is his Renaissance, a funk-techno experience that pulls from the long history of regional dance-floor favorites to remind the culture that movement is liberation. To prepare listeners, the record begins with three demands: ‘No sitting still/Leave your baggage at home/[and] Don’t tap the glass.’ In 2025, I turned on Chromokopia when I needed to reflect; I turned on Don’t Tap the Glass when I was ready to let go.”—Quinci LeGardye, Culture Writer

“Sometimes the only way to make sense of our lives is to turn to the divine. That’s exactly what Spanish avant-pop phenom Rosalía does on her magnum opus Lux, a concept album about traveling from Earth up to the heavens and back down again in hopes of finding clarity regarding desire and the female experience. A bold piece of chamber pop featuring soul-piercing lyrics that are sung across 13 languages and full of references to a myriad of saints, it’s as daring and artful as pop can be. The songstress may have looked to the heavens for answers, but in doing so, she created a new hymnal for the brokenhearted—or, perhaps, a prayer for fellow goddesses stepping into their own power. Amen.”—Sadie Bell, Senior Culture Editor