TQE Presents Matchmaker: Your Personal Shopping Advice Column

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Here at The Quality Edit, we’re self-proclaimed product experts with a knack for gifting and online shopping. We created Matchmaker to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Ask us anything and we’ll deliver hand-curated recommendations just for you! Want a chance to get a custom product rec of your own? Slide into our DMs or email me at hello@thequalityedit.com. Let’s make some matches! 

Reader: I will be traveling a ton this summer and am looking for a product to keep things more organized!

Your choice of color and labels.
Credit: @keepyourcadence

Lillie: As someone who’s been on six flights in the last month, I know how important it is to stay organized while being on the go. I never go anywhere without at least bringing one of my Cadence capsules ($14-84). These little hexagonal containers can hold skincare products, jewelry, vitamins, haircare – it’s completely up to you! Because they’re designed especially for traveling, you never have to worry about being TSA compliant or having anything leaking out. With Cadence, I’ve felt calm and collected despite living out of my suitcase for weeks on end.

Reader: I need a cross body bag to carry the necessities! Where should I look for one?

Made from recycled apple leather.
Credit: @SAMARA

Lillie: Hands-free and lightweight, crossbody bags are definitely a summer must-have. Last year, I picked up the Claire Crossbody Bag ($165) from SAMARA, a female-founded, vegan leather brand based out of Toronto. The bag itself looks sleek and actually fits more than you think – a pair of sunglasses, your wallet, keys and – if you’re like me – room for snacks! The best part? The material of the Claire Crossbody Bag is actually made from recycled apple leather and makes for a great sustainable alternative to others.

Reader: Do you have any recommendations for reducing dark spots on my face?

Skincare for fading dark spots.
Credit: Hyper Skin

Lillie: Hyperpigmentation and dark spots are common skincare concerns, especially with warmer weather. My favorite products in this category are the Faded serum ($49) from Topicals and the Hypereven Treatment Duo ($39) from Hyperskin. Both are made from quality ingredients and have over 1,000 five star reviews combined.

Reader: Can you help me find a flat, pointed toe shoe to wear casually?

Caption: Flats made for walking.
Credit: @mgemi

Lillie: As much as I love wearing heels, there’s something refreshing and comforting (read: comfortable) about being able to walk around all day in flat shoes. M.GEMI has a huge selection of flat, pointed toe shoes that look chic and timeless. If you’re looking for something more professional, these Sand Esatto flats ($248) are great for work. For a more casual feel, I’m obsessed with these snakeskin flats that will go perfectly with your favorite denims.

Reader: One of my friends is about to be a first-time mom, and my other friend is having her second. What should I get?

Clean, safe, non-toxic skincare and babycare.
Credit: @pipettebaby

Lillie: Shopping for first-time moms and moms who already have babies at home are two very different experiences. With our new moms, it’s all about necessities and getting them ready for what’s about to be a brand new chapter. For first time moms, I recommend picking up some safe, non-toxic babycare and skincare products ($10-$50) from Pipette.

Moms who are having their second or third baby likely already have favorite baby products and won’t need too many more. Instead, gift something to help mom feel present, calm and relaxed. Superhuman ($229 for a yearly membership) is an app that has hundreds of incredible meditations and affirmations. It makes a great gift for anyone, but moms especially!

That’s a wrap on this month’s edition of Matchmaker. I’ll see you in June for more product recommendations and fun gift ideas. 

Have something particular in mind, but can’t seem to find it? We’re here to help. Email hello@thequalityedit.com or shoot us a DM for a chance to be featured in our May issue. 

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