Editors' Picks: The Beauty and Fashion Must-Haves We Loved in January
Byrdie
The essence of beauty and fashion discovery in January cannot be prescribed to simply one methodology. Some welcome the colder temps of the month by reaching for the latest launches of cozy candles, richly moisturizing masks, and warm jackets, while others rediscover nostalgic favorites. We here at Team Byrdie fall into both camps, as evidenced by our wide selection of winter must-haves. From uplifting fragrances, chapped lip-saving balms, and haircare routine-upgrading tools to plumping serums, creamy eyeshadows, and classic sneakers, we present our favorites from this January that helped us begin 2024 with style.
Keep reading so you, too, can stock your vanity and closet with the best of the best.
Hallie Gould, editor in chief
@gouldhallie / Byrdie
111Skin NAC Y² Recovery Mask ($160)
"I have been using this mask daily for weeks and it has transformed my sad, winter skin into juicy, plump, happy skin in the same amount of time. Previously, I didn't understand the allure of an overnight mask (How's it different from moisturizer? I'd whine), but this restoring formula has shut me up for good. A beautiful blend of antioxidants, amino acids, and ceramides, the NAC Y² Recovery Mask helps to protect and rebuild your skin's barrier, reduce irritation and redness, support regeneration, and soothe sensitivity. It does all the things your skin really needs during the winter months (the wind in NYC is whipping, y'all). I am so happy every time I pull it off the shelf and massage it into my skin. Plus, it penetrates quickly and doesn't leave any stickiness (if, like me, you're a side-sleeper and don't want to mess with your pillowcases)."
Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil ($26)
"A good lip product will go with you everywhere—from your vanity, to your work bag, to the office, to your going-out bag, and back again (and, if you're lucky enough to have a car, my best bet is you have at least three stuffed in there too). Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil is that product for me. It is plush, comfortable, highly glossy, and offers the perfect sheer wash of color. It's packed with vitamin E for moisture and softening, as well as a vegan oil complex to nix stickiness. I have every shade and they all look so, so nice. This one is a must-have!"
Keys Soulcare Deeply Replenishing Squalane Facial Oil ($35)
"Keys Soulcare has become a staple on my vanity for its soothing formulas and beautiful scents (if you haven't smelled the Sage + Oat Milk candle, you're missing out). The newest launch, Deeply Replenishing Squalane Facial Oil is a divine last step in your winter skincare routine. A blend of squalane, prickly pear and pomegranate seed oils, this lightweight formula softens, moisturizes, and replenishes your skin as you sleep. I just press a few dots between my finger tips post-moisturizer, tap it on to seal it all in, and drift off to a happy sleep. Another thing to note? My boyfriend uses it too (and he doesn't use much)."
Dior Dior Rouge Dior Couture Color Lipstick in 999 Velvet ($49)
"Nothing gives me more joy than camouflaging my distain for cold, grey weather with an iconic red lip. It livens up my face and my disposition in seconds flat. The Rouge Dior in 999 Velvet makes me feel invincible: The shade is a classic fire-engine red and the formula is infused with peony and pomegranate flower extracts, as well as shea butter. The entire application and wear experience is creamy, comfortable, and absolutely stunning. This particular favorite has a velvet finish, but there's satin offerings as well if you like a little shine."
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Smoothing Serum ($85)
"Bobbi Brown is the brand I lean on for all things makeup prep—from the iconic Vitamin Enriched Face Base (it makes foundation and concealer glide on like butter, and stay put) to the brand's newest launch, Vitamin Enriched Smoothing Serum. Once applied, it visibly boosts moisture and glow (hello, glass skin), smooths texture, and infuses your skin with all the good skincare stuff: niacinamide, vitamin C, and cactus flower. Before going out, I wash, tone, apply the Smoothing Serum, follow up with Face Base, and then go in on my complexion makeup products. My skin has never looked more flawless and my makeup has never lasted longer. That's a promise!"
Lancôme Idôle Tint Liquid Eyeshadow & Eyeliner ($30)
"I'm not an expert at applying eyeshadow by any means, and I need products that make it all easier (the blending, et al). Enter: Idôle Tint Liquid Eyeshadow & Eyeliner, a long-wear, super versatile liquid eyeshadow and eyeliner in one. You can use the flat side of the applicator for an easy shadow distribution, while using the thin side for eyeliner. It's genius and incredibly easy. My favorite shade of late is Earth Red, a rosy-brown that feels perfect for moody winter makeup looks. The pigment goes on smooth, stays put, and blends like a dream."
Star Donaldson, associate social media director
Byrdie
Cozy Earth Rib-Knit Long Sleeve Lounge Top + Rib-Knit Lounge Pant ($140)
"As an act of self-care, I like all of my pajamas to be matching sets. But it’s hard to find sets that are comfy, easy to move around in, and not heavy flannel. I’ve loved Cozy Earth’s bed sheets, towels, and blankets for a while, but recently, their loungewear piqued my interest as well. Now I can say that this Rib-Knit Long Sleeve Lounge Top and Pant are my new favorite outfit to wear at home. The ribbed texture of the pieces allows for stretch/give, and while the fabric has weight to it, it’s not too heavy that it makes me sweat at night. While this set is an investment, you can really feel the quality of the pieces, which are made from 97% premium Viscose, a fabric derived from bamboo. You can really feel the durability of the fabric, so I know I will have this set for a long time and look forward to putting it on after a long chilly day."
Awet Abel Vest ($185)
"I am leaning into a vest vibe this winter, and this Awet x Equinox Abel vest collab is my new go-to. Because the cold temps came out of nowhere in NYC, I’ve been layering up. While many vests I have work as an outer layer only, this Able Vest has open side panels, which make it easy to throw under heavier jackets for extra insulation. I went on a hiking trip in the Berkshires this month, and this vest kept me cozier than I ever thought it could, considering its density. It’s made from 100% recycled polyester, is padded, and has adjustable tabs at the sides. I’ll wear this as outerwear and as an extra layer as the temps drop."
Eden Stuart, beauty editor
Byrdie
ciele Tint & Protect SPF 50+ Tinted Serum Foundation ($44)
"Ciel's Tint & Protect was made in an 'everything Eden wants in a foundation' factory, and no one can convince me otherwise. It's medium coverage but has that lightweight feel you'd expect from a tint, includes SPF 50, and has a gorgeous natural finish. And on top of all that, shade 7 is about as flawless a match as I've ever blended into my skin. I've worn this every single day since I opened the package, no exaggeration."
Half Magic Eyeshadow Singles in Blushing Lizard ($12)
"I first saw Half Magic's Blushing Lizard shade in person at Byrdie Beauty Lab (where it was a massive fan favorite), and I was stunned by how amazing it looked on absolutely everyone. The shifty shadow looks kinda brown, kinda pink, and kinda blue all at once, and creates an almost wet-looking finish that I'd describe as 'my lids but fairy-er.' It's perpetually sold out at Ulta and on the Half Magic website (unsurprisingly, given how gorgeous it is), but I would recommend any eyeshadow lover snag one the next time it's back in stock."
Adidas Park Street Sneaker ($75)
"Okay, I know we're all wearing Sambas and Sambas-esque sneakers at the moment. And they look fab! But I would like to make a case for a simple, crisp white sneaker—specifically, the Adidas Park Street. The slightly wider design looks so fresh, peaking out of the bottom of wide-leg pants, and the white is perfect for any looks that err on the side of minimalist or 'quiet luxury;' one of my go-to outfits is wide-leg pants, a black top, a motorcycle jacket, and my Parks."
Jill Di Donato, associate commerce director
Byrdie
The Outset Botanical Barrier Rescue Balm ($38)
"I love an all-purpose balm without fragrance and this new launch from The Outset is ultra-rich without leaving a greasy residue. It contains the brand's botanical alternative to hyaluronic acid as well as rose hip and marula oils to deeply nourish. It's perf for use on head-to-toe, including lips, cuticles, and hair. We'll be reaching for this all winter long."
Eadem Bare-Skin Confidence Brightening Trio ($45)
Here's a gift set I'm keeping all for myself. It was my go-to when traveling over the holidays, as it's packed with a streamlined skincare routine that features a balmy cleanser and two treatment serums to address brightness, spots, and overall skin barrier health. The Cloud Cushion Moisturizer is an excellent anti-aging pick, but replete with peptides and ceramides, it also repairs the skin barrier during harsh winter months. I'll use the Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum if I encounter any spots over my travels—it's great on texture too, so I can feel good about keeping up my routine, even when on the go."
Abby Dupes, associate editor
Byrdie
Alo Ice Breaker Puffer Jacket ($398)
"Purchasing a black puffer jacket for your first NYC winter is a rite of passage—and I immediately partook when I moved here. However, as a brown-leather girly, I quickly found myself loathing cold days, as I was forced to wear a jacket that didn't coordinate with my shoes and bag. This year, I remedied my conundrum with Alo's satin faux leather Ice Breaker Puffer Jacket in Toasted Almond. The tan hue and cozy sherpa details look flawless with my accessories of choice, all while keeping me incredibly warm in below-40-degree weather. Plus, there are plenty of pockets to put my essentials in for when I don't feel like rummaging through my purse while wearing thick gloves."
Nerrā Dry Body Oil ($85)
"I hate nothing more than putting on clothing while my body cream—or lotion, or oil—is still wet. First off, clothes don't slide on as easily (IYKYK). And secondly, it makes my skin feel sweaty rather than nourished. Luckily for me, I discovered Nerrās' Dry Body Oil this winter, which soaks into skin at a record speed. The Dry Body Oil is the fourth step in the Mediterranean-inspired Body Cleansing Ritual set, which I use to slough off dead skin that has accumulated thanks to the cold, moisture-stripping temps. I look forward to the hydration, as well as its soothing jasmine scent, every time I step out of a hot bath or shower."
Maison Margiela Replica Coffee Break ($160)
"For someone who doesn't drink coffee, I sure do adore the way Coffee Break smells. I rediscovered this gem in January while chasing the cozy warmth that a familiar scent can bring. For me, Coffee Break is the smell of catching up with old friends at a café with a delicious drink in hand. Spearmint and lavender hit this perfume home for me, elevating the fragrance to a relaxing, aromatherapy-like indulgence that lingers on the skin all day."
Olivia Hancock, beauty editor
Byrdie
Olay Super Serum ($35)
"I’ve heard so many other editors sing the praises of the Olay Super Serum, so I had to test it out to see what the hype is about. Spoiler alert: The hype is warranted. This lightweight serum provides five benefits in one—it helps improve skin texture, even skin tone, firm your skin, smooth fine lines, and boost hydration. Slathering this on daily helps my skin look incredibly plump, smooth, and hydrated."
Ellis Brooklyn Salt Eau de Parfum ($110)
"Ellis Brooklyn’s Salt Eau de Parfum has become my signature fall and winter scent. The fresh fragrance is infused with notes of ylang ylang, Tahitian tiare, and ambergris. The resulting blend is salty, creamy, and tropical all at the time. It’s a unique scent that is bound to elicit compliments."
Fenty Skin Plush Puddin’ ($22)
"I love using lip masks, especially during this time of year when my lips become super dry. Fenty Skin’s pudding-like lip mask coats your lips with intense moisture thanks to ingredients like coconut, castor, pomegranate, and jojoba oil. I’ve noticed my lips feel softer and smoother since I started using it."
Free People Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket ($198)
"I’ve been wearing this jacket a ton this winter. It’s super lightweight but designed with heavier filling and quilting to keep you warm. Another plus? This puffer is made with water-resistant material, so I can wear it in the rain without worry. I have this style in black, but it comes in two dozen colors."
Alyssa Kaplan, commerce writer
Byrdie
Victoria Beckham Beauty Suite 302 Eau de Parfum ($290)
"Victoria Beckham screams luxury, so it's no surprise that her beauty brand recently launched three fine fragrances that all make you smell expensive. Though I adore each one, Suite 302 is my favorite, thanks to notes of black cherry, leather, and tobacco leaves that combine beautifully, creating a scent that's sexy, mysterious, and a little bit masculine. This deep and unique fragrance is perfect for a night out this winter, and I also adore that the packaging is chic and different from a typical glass vessel."
Nécessaire The Hand Retinol ($35)
"I've been using retinol on my face consistently for more than ten years, and I credit it with keeping my skin relatively clear and texture-free. So when this landed on my desk (just around the time that I started getting bumpiness on the back of my hands), it felt like fate. After using it nightly for the last three weeks, I can say it's made a noticeable improvement in the texture of my hands—minimizing bumpiness and helping my skin feel softer overall. If you're looking to achieve super soft hands this winter, I recommend applying a layer of this underneath a moisturizing hand cream before bed."
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream ($100)
"If you have oily skin, chances are you know how challenging it can be to find a moisturizer that offers adequate hydration without contributing to excess oil. This one does just that for me. I love that the creamy gel texture feels nourishing and plush but not greasy, and I find that it keeps my skin comfortable all day long and layers beautifully underneath makeup. I think those with oily skin will love this option during the daytime as the weather cools down, thanks to the well-balanced formula."
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Waterproof Cream Eyeshadow Stick ($34)
"These gorgeous eyeshadow sticks from Bobbi Brown have been a go-to for me when I'm in the mood to wear something on my eyes, but I want to keep it minimal in terms of my look and my effort. I love that the mattes and the metallics are both pigmented and blendable, and once set, they don't budge for at least eight hours."
Ring Concierge Gold Twisted Hoops ($298)
"I've been on the hunt for gold hoops that are a bit unique while still looking classic, and I fell in love with these when I saw them online. I decided to buy them for myself as a birthday treat, and I'm so happy I did. They're solid gold and feel beautifully made, but they're lightweight and easy to wear. They can be worn casually or dressed up; I love that they go with a wide range of looks."
Jasmine Phillips, social media editor
Byrdie
Camille Rose Spiked Honey Mousse 4-in-1 Styler ($13)
"I typically reach for butters and creams when it comes to braid-outs, but the TikTok girlies swear by mousse, and this one in particular, so I had to give it a try. To say I was impressed by the results is truly an understatement. Not only did my hair look bouncy and shiny (a shine my hair has truly been missing for some time), but my braid-out lasted over six days. I don’t know what they put in this mousse, but I’ve already added three more to my cart so that I always have it in stock at my house."
Dyson Airwrap ($600)
"I finally understand the hype about the Dyson Airwrap. They recently launched a multi-styler with curly and coily hair in mind, so I definitely wanted to see if it catered to my hair type. I’m happy to report that drying my hair has never been easier. I can diffuse my curls and stretch them in half the time it takes with a traditional blow dryer. While I’ve only used two of the size attachments in the month I’ve had the Dyson, I’m sure that the other attachments are just as great."
Ray-Ban Meta Headliner ($316)
"Ray-Ban and Meta teamed up for possibly the most iconic collaboration of the year. Don’t be fooled; these aren’t your typical sunnies. Not only can you protect your eyes in style, but you can take photos and videos, answer phone calls, respond to text messages and live stream, listen to music, and more, all from these shades. They’re perfect for capturing content hands-free making them a social editor’s dream tech-meets-style launch."
By Malene Birger Tinley Cardigan ($135)
"Rent the Runway is great for trying out a bunch of clothing you don’t necessarily want to commit to buying but want to wear to work, special events, etc. Unfortunately or fortunately for me, I fell in love with a recent rental item and ended up purchasing it when it went on major sale. This cardigan is chic with a hint of sexy thanks to the low neckline, and the material is so soft I almost never want to take it off."
Nuuds Wide Leg Sweatpant ($88)
"Finding the perfect pair of sweatpants is a never-ending journey. I often shop in the men's section because I can’t find pants that are long enough for my 5’8" legs. These wide-leg sweatpants from Nuuds are perfect in every way: The length is great for anyone my height (or taller!), they come in cool fall/winter colors, they’re super cozy, and also have matching bodysuits and sweatshirts to give you that monochromatic look."
Shannon Stubbs, commerce updates writer
Byrdie
GOLDE Collagen Boost ($18)
"This creamer has a completely vegan formula, so it doesn’t contain actual collagen (which is animal-based)—but it’s made with ingredients that can naturally boost collagen production, like hyaluronic acid and bamboo extract. I’ve been mixing it into my tea every day, and I really like that it dissolves completely without the use of a whisk or frother. It tastes delicious, and I have noticed that my skin has been glowier than usual."
Inde Wild Dewy Lip Balm ($18)
"As someone who has chronically dry lips—and never leaves the house without two lip balms in my possession—I’m always looking to try new ones, especially masks or treatments that will hydrate even more during the cold weather. This lip treatment from Ayurvedic brand Inde Wild caught my eye because of its nourishing formula, containing hyaluronic acid, peptides, squalane, and more. It’s more moisturizing than some of my thicker lip masks, but it has the consistency of a gloss, so I can wear and reapply all day long. My lips tend to peel and crack from dryness during the winter, but that’s completely disappeared after using this consistently."
Olio E Osso Bold Balm in Crimson ($28)
"Just like any blush addict, I can admit that I have way too many that are of pretty much the same shade. I usually lean toward a magenta or deep red, and this one from Olio E Osso has been my favorite lately. It’s a balm that can be applied to both lips and cheeks straight from the stick, and I love that it can be a sheer wash of color or very pigmented. It’s perfect for no or minimal makeup days because it makes me look naturally flushed and rosy—not like I just applied makeup."
Caitlyn Martyn, commerce writer
Byrdie
Crown Affair The Dry Shampoo ($36)
"I live by dry shampoo—it’s the only way I can extend the life of my blowouts. Enter: Crown Affair’s The Dry Shampoo. I love it for a few reasons; for one, it reminds me of a finishing powder that I’d be comfortable putting on my face (it even comes with a kabuki brush to ensure targeted, even distribution of product). Secondly, it refreshes my scalp and adds volume in seconds."
Oura Ring ($299)
"I’d been interested in the Oura Ring for quite some time after learning about it on TikTok. I initially figured I didn’t need to track my sleep or monitor my heart rate, but after I learned that it can accurately track your cycle, I was all in. After about a month of using it, I’ve never felt so in touch with my health (or my body) and I’ve recommended it to so many of my friends. If you’re a wellness girly, this one gets all my praise."
Perfumehead Cosmic Cowboy ($425)
"Cosmic Cowboy is probably going to be my signature scent from now on; it’s one of those scents that you can’t quite put your finger on, but everyone who you cross paths with will ask you what you’re wearing. It’s warm and spicy (the brand says it was inspired by the nightclubs on the Sunset Strip in the 1970s) but in a smoky, boozy kind of way, thanks to notes of tobacco leaf and musk. It also has a softness to it—which contributes to its elusiveness—in the form of amber and cacao."
Marcella Eloise Sheer Turtleneck ($65)
"One thing about me is that in the winter, I’m going to wear all black—especially when I’m going out. This sheer turtleneck from Marcella is the perfect top for all types of situations and festivities (I’ve worn it to get cocktails with my friends, dinner with my boyfriend, and also to my family Thanksgiving) while allowing me to control how much skin I want to show. A bra or bodysuit works great underneath, but you can opt to go au naturale, too."
Lauren Paradee, senior commerce editor
Byrdie
Kaja Wink Stamp ($29)
"Finally—Kaja has created the unimaginable: a product that imparts a perfect winged eyeliner every time in mere seconds. First, you take the stamp tool (which has dual ends, one stamp for the right wing and one for the left), and you stamp the outer corner of your lid to create the perfect wing shape. Then, you follow up with the pen to connect the wing to your lashline and repeat on the other eye. That’s it—and the formula delivers, too, holding strong all day. No more endless trial and error or Q-tip cleanups. Now, you can get two matching wings in under a minute."
Ex Nihilo Narcotique Eau de Parfum ($355)
"Things that are meant for you will find their way—and this perfume (now my signature scent) did just that years ago in the form of a checkout sample from Saks. One spritz before hopping in the Uber home, and the driver wouldn’t stop asking me about it—everyone, to this day, still inquires about what I’m wearing. Described as 'peony wrapped in woods,' it’s airy, sophisticated, and knows how to subtly attract with notes of bergamot, lychee, jasmine, peach, orange blossom, and musk. Floral and girlie, yet grounded with earthy elements, I am now sharing my holy grail of fragrance because she was recently granted the highest honor: my wedding scent."
Kjaer Weis Cream Blush ($32)
"Chic packaging, high-end formulas, sustainable roots—if a product has any of these qualities, my interest is piqued. And when I come across triple threats like the Kjaer Weis Cream Blush, I buy in. Made from certified organic ingredients that melt into the skin, this blush has beautiful pigmentation, is easily blendable and buildable, and comes in a stunning reusable case. The formula is equally nourishing and hydrating, which is exactly what my skin needs as we head into the winter months."
Paintbox Press Ons in Cold Spell ($28)
"During the holidays, I’m committed to a uniform of oversized blazers, chunky knits, and trousers. I lean on accessories to explore seasonal trends and take fun risks that aren’t too costly. Along with chic hairbows, red ballet flats, and a silver purse or two, you can always find high-end press-on nails in my 2024 arsenal. This metallic French tip set from Paintbox is sophisticated and dimensional—they’re my secret to elevating any festive look without spending time I don’t have at the salon."
Ali Webb, associate editor
Byrdie
Aupen Nirvana Bag ($340)
"Aupen is the it-bag brand of the moment, with countless celebrities stepping out in its asymmetrical, instantly recognizable styles, so I was thrilled to get my hands on the Nirvana—the same bag Taylor Swift has worn on multiple occasions—in snow white. The slouchy silhouette easily fits all your essentials, plus the braided handle and gold charm add modern touches that set the bag apart. I can't wait to bring it with me to all the events on my calendar and feel that much more put-together."
Trudon Vixi Eau de Parfum ($260)
"Storied fragrance house Trudon slipped this eau de parfum into the bag with one of their holiday candles, and it was love at first spritz. The notes of sandalwood and cedar are right up my alley, and combined with Italian petitgrain, Balkan sage, jasmine, and cardamom, it's a spicy dream that has me feeling merry and bright. I'm certain to use it up fast, and the scent would be an ideal gift for anyone in need of a festive fragrance."
InfinitiPro by Conair Curl Secret Auto Curler ($100)
"Confession: Until recently, I'd been using a curling iron I merely tolerated for far too long (for emphasis, the Olsen twins were on the package of the first one I ever bought). Hairstylist Laura Polko gave me a demo on this innovative, auto-curling Conair launch earlier this fall—if you have long hair like me, the loose wave setting is stunning—and I've been obsessed ever since. Together with a couple of IGK volumizing products, the tool has helped me achieve the most lush, bouncy curls of my life, and they literally last for days. Also, the compliments haven't stopped coming, which is always a plus."
Phlur Currant Crush Scented Candle ($45)
"If you're looking for a winter candle but lean fruity or floral in your fragrance preferences, this one's for you. Currant, cassis, and rhubarb combine with rose petals and peonies for a bright yet rich scent that instantly sets the mood for seasonal hangs. The throw is powerful enough to keep my apartment smelling good even after I'm done burning it, yet soft enough to enjoy for hours on end—an ideal balance for a flame you'll fall for all season long.
Nasty Gal Premium Leopard Print Faux Leather Trench Coat ($245)
"Animal print is back with a vengeance, which has led me to explore what that means to current Ali after not really gravitating towards it in over a decade. This leather trench from Nasty Gal is a veritable statement coat that has made me completely understand the 'leopard is a neutral' crowds, as despite the fact that it always stands out, I just can't stop wearing it. I love its long profile and classically chic silhouette, which feels equally put-together whether I fully button it or simply belt it open over an outfit I'd rather show off. I may have never gotten around to joining team Leopard Midi Skirt, but if the leopard trench catches on, I am fully on board."
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