095. The Gifting Season

For you and your loved ones. Plus, a bonafide wishlist.

Hi, I’m Maggie, and welcome to Tender Forms Off-Camera: a bi-weekly newsletter on all things slow: beauty, fashion, living. Links in this newsletter may include affiliate links or discount referrals. If you enjoy and would like to support this newsletter, click the button below or shop through my links! No pressure but thank you if you do.

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Hello, you. It’s certainly been a while. I’m sitting in bed typing this newsletter on a rare Saturday when I have some room to breathe. The sun is shining just past our bedroom window, and it appears and sounds like quite a windy day. A soft rustling of Autumn leaves fills the space as it mingles with Stephen Rennicks’ Normal People soundtrack. It’s a lovely morning.

I can’t believe it’s the weekend before Thanksgiving. I know you must be bombarded with as many sale emails as I am. And while I never want you to feel obligated to shop, this is the time I prefer to do my holiday shopping for three simple reasons:

1. I won’t be stressing over any last-minute shopping.

2. I can ensure gifts arrive on time to loved ones.*

3. Discounts allow me to spoil them more than I could if everything were at full price.

*You may be thinking, well, along with the generous discounts, there might be a chance to stack free shipping on top of that. But won’t that mean your gifts will arrive long before the holiday season? Why yes, that can certainly happen. However, I find a quick note to a loved one asking for patience and restraint on opening until the holidays usually does the trick. They’ll understand!

Now let’s move on to the fun stuff. I’ve added accompanying discount codes and links wherever possible, of course. You can head here for more discounts as well!

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Gifts For You

Throughout the past few months, I’ve acquired and gone through a few skincare and makeup items I’ve loved dearly. The following section is categorized by Past (empties), Present (in use), and Future (what I will be purchasing in the coming weeks). Thus, if your tastes are similar to mine, might I suggest any of the following: 

Earthwise Beauty 

P A S T 

Ambrosia do Cerrado. Over the summer, I was finally reunited with my holy grail moisturizer, and the reunion was nothing short of beautiful. This has to be one of the most unique moisturizers in the skincare world, period. It is an exquisite and complex formula. But don’t let the “complex” scare you. By complex, I mean intuitive. It somehow knows exactly what my skin needs and delivers it. And if that isn’t enough to sway you, I think the multiple bottles I’ve emptied should say it all. 

Rosa. I also went through another bottle of one of my holy grail face oils. Rosa really steps beyond just a face oil. Its brightening properties work not only wonders on the face but on year-long scars as well. This past Summer, I started using a drop on some longtime scarring on my legs and was amazed by the result. If you’ve tried several body-brightening skincare and they’ve failed you, I’d love to ask you to give this gem a chance. 

F U T U R E 

I am thrilled to share that starting Wednesday, November 23, Earthwise Beauty’s annual Black Friday promotion is returning! They’re offering 25% sitewide with the code:  BlackFriday2022. Below are the items I’ll be picking up, but might I suggest these two YouTube video refreshers should you want to try some others I love as well:

Three Roses. I cannot express how I have missed this in my life. There is something equally uplifting and grounding about Three Roses. It’s worlds-transporting. The only reason I’ve gone so long without it is that I had a few mists I needed to finish first. I can hardly wait to purchase this next week. 

Passion Eye Serum. I’ve been out of this for far too long. It is my holy grail eye oil and the only eye anything I use. It’s EWB or nothing! This also means my under eyes have not been receiving the same love and care as this undoubtedly delivers. Truly nothing compares. 

Skin Fancy 

P A S T + F U T U R E 

Skin Fancy Honey Rose Cleansing Salve. I emptied this over the summer, and had I not had my backlog of cleansers to get through; I would have repurchased in a heartbeat. My dehydrated skin can be rather finicky. It needs moisture and yet a good scrub as well to get rid of any buildup or dead skin. For that reason, this works beautifully with and for my skin and its congested areas. Plus, the delicious strawberry scent and perfectly delicate physical exfoliation are heavenly. No cleansing routine feels quite the same!  

Gatherwise 

P R E S E N T 

Seaweed Face Scrub. I received a very generous PR package from Gatherwise earlier this year and have been slowly making my way through. A more in-depth newsletter will follow, but in the meantime, the Seaweed Face Scrub has been a favorite that I cannot keep contained. It’s so special and simultaneously a gentle yet hardworking cleanser. I just pour a small dime-sized amount into wet hands, add a few extra drops of water, and work it into the skin. The scent is nothing like I expected and everything I’ve come to look forward to at the end of the day. I also love that it pairs beautifully with cream cleansers! That’s my favorite way to use it, and I get the best of both texture worlds. And as you may have guessed, it makes for a sophisticated face mask as well. Plus, a little goes a long way. I’ve used this consistently for months now and have only just begun to make a dent. The ample 18-month PAO is yet another reason this has quickly risen to the top of my list. 

Westman Atelier 

P R E S E N T 

Bonne Brow Defining Pencil in Slate. I haven't used a brow pencil in years (the last one was the Anastasia Brow Wiz in 2015). Out of all the brow processes, to me, nothing beats a brow powder. And usually, I go for eyeshadow to fill in my brows. My long-time go-to is the MOB Beauty Cake Liner in M41 (which I still adore as it works for brows and eyes. I can't recommend this enough if you're looking for a multi-tasker). Then during the Credo Friends and Family sale, I caved and have been using it nonstop ever since. It's fantastic. The finish is more powder-like than waxy (my preference), and the color Slate is spot-on for me. Despite its drier finish, it's easy to draw on (no tugging), and you can get hairlike strokes if you keep the edge sharp. I tend to angle it parallel to my brows as I fill in my sparse areas, then use the dry spoolie to brush through. I love it. 

Vital Pressed Skincare Powder. Yes, this is a $75 powder. And trust me, I detest to admit how much I love it. If you’re a longtime subscriber, you know my love for powders. However, I’ve never found a powder’s blurring claim to be true until this one. The difference is visible and immediate. I don’t purchase a lot throughout the year, so I don’t mind splurging on an item here and there, and I am so glad to have done so on this one. It’s been such a welcome step in my daily makeup. On most days, SPF and this powder are all I use for my complexion. 

Powder Brush. Speaking of splurging, earlier this year, I had a 20% off code to shop through Instagram, so I took that opportunity to purchase the Powder Brush to accompany the Vital Pressed Powder (purchased directly through Westman Atelier). I adore Westman Atelier’s complexion brushes. I currently own three, and they are some of my most used, favorite brushes. Everything about them is perfection: the visual contrast of light and texture from the undyed vegan bristles ever so finely and expertly cut to the black lacquered ferrule that meets the short hardwood birch, matte black handle. The shorter length allows me better precision and control, and my small hands love it. They’re also extremely durable. I’ve had the blender brush for years now, and it looks brand new, even with weekly washing. 

MOB Beauty 

MOB Beauty is offering 25% off sitewide with code: MOBNATION25 starting Tuesday, November 22!

P R E S E N T 

Cream Clay Blush in M74 Rosewood and M91 Tulip. This is my favorite cream blush in the world of makeup. I have been using Tulip nonstop for months and just added back in Rosewood to my daily face palette.

Cake Liner in M90. You already know my love for the OG Cake Liner in M41 Black. And I didn’t think anything could get better than that, but then they released shades M90 Deep Brown and M89 Midnight Blue. I have fallen head over heels for M90. The main reason is, again, its versatility. I use these both dry and wet. They’re, of course, meant to be used wet to achieve a long-lasting, inky liner. But when used dry as an elegant, everyday lash definition, it is the epitome of perfection. The beauty is in its unique formula. When used dry, they aren’t as pigmented as their powder eyeshadows, which I love. This allows me to get a softer effect that still stays put all day and wears beautifully. M90 is also slightly cooler than their eyeshadow equivalent in M4 Espresso (which was my go-to until this one trumped it). I have to say the tone of M89 Midnight Blue is also exquisite. However, I’ve found it slightly tougher to use than the other two shades. This one has a tendency to go patchy if the ratio of water and liner isn’t just right. It takes a bit more work to get it there, but if you do, it’s gorgeous and a great item for a loved one in your life who dreams a bit more in color. 

Victoria Beckham Beauty  

VBB is offering 20% off sitewide with code: GIVING20 starting today!

P R E S E N T

Bitten Lip Tint in Je T’aime.  If you've read Newsletter 086, then you already know my admiration of the Bitten Lip Tint in Chérie. When they launched the new shade in Je T’aime and described it as cherry-red, I immediately purchased it. But I am on the fence with this one. Fortunately, the shade is exactly what I hoped for; a brighter, warmer version of Chérie. Unfortunately, the formula of this one is, in many senses, terrible. The first is that if you disturb it in any way after applying, it feathers immediately. That means no dabbing with your fingers, no smushing your lips together. If so, the pigment wipes away and gathers along the edges of your mouth. It is also much more susceptible to water. So if you drink anything, it can move and gather into collected pools of color on your lips. I know I'm not doing it any favors by describing this in detail. The only saving grace is the shade itself. I truly hope they'll rework the formula of this one so it behaves like the rest because the shade is too beautiful to give up on! And that cherry-red is really the reason I continue using it day after day. But if the formula isn’t reworked, I won't be repurchasing. Luckily, there's always Chérie. 

F U T U R E 

Reflect Highlighter Stick.* You know that I am not a highlighter person. And I'll be the first to admit that the packaging, in this case, is what got me. Just look at that fluted gold casing! How does one say no? Anyhow, it just arrived the other day, so I can't comment on how it performs, but I also can't think of a better "treat yourself" moment. *Categorized in “future” as I’ve yet to open it.

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Gifts For Your Loved Ones

While the above section doubles as a good list for your loved ones, there are some extra recommendations I wanted to share: 

Lanshin Tools

Nephrite Sculpting Spoon. I use this tool more often than one realizes. Recently, from the Lanshin newsletters, I learned a new way to use this to alleviate headaches. I can tell you it works. And fast too! You can watch this and the following item in action here.

Lanshin Massager by Acera in Oyster Grey. Another beloved tool I fail to mention as often as I should. I hold a lot of tension in my shoulders, and this soothes and works out those knots like none other. The Far-Infrared heat energy is an extra-special treat during the colder months too. While all three colorways are beautiful, the Oyster Grey’s handle attachment is my favorite! 

Jade Scalp Stimulator. There will be a more in-depth newsletter on yet another gem from Sandra of Lanshin. I’m not sure if it’s age or what, but I’ve become much more susceptible to headaches and built-up pressure in my scalp. This, of course, releases tension as all of her tools do. But its true power lies in the ritual and its ability to not only soothe but to stimulate. This means better scalp health, which mine has always needed, and now is happy to have. More to come soon! 

Intro Gua Sha Tool in Australian Jasper. I just spotted this the other day and think it would make the most beautiful gift. If your budget doesn’t allow for the Pro Gua Sha Tool (which will always hold the #1 spot in my Gua Sha tool list), this is an excellent choice. 

Monastery Gold Botanical Oil Serum. Anything Monastery makes for a dreamy gift. Their Rose Oil Cleanser is one of my favorite cleansers of all time. I also love their Aloe moisturizer and Sage cleanser. They recently came out with smaller sizes of their Gold and Rose, so it’s perfect to gift someone to try. Though the 1oz size of Gold is still pricey, it’s at least less pricey than the original 2oz option. And should it help, my link provides 20% off! 

Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen. This is the perfect gift for the avid reader and traveler in your life. I made a goal of reading 12 books this year and have long surpassed it (currently at 17) thanks to the Kindle! If you really want to splurge, you can also add a fancy case for them. 

Book of the Month. This one is for the romantic reader in your life who loves the smell and feel of books. A subscription to these hardcover treasures will surely delight. 

B The Method. I am not overstating; if anything, I’m understating when I say that this subscription has changed my life. I cannot speak more highly of Lia Bartha’s classes. I am never bored, always challenged, and always thankful for how this resets, strengthens, and cares for my body. I have never been the athletic type and always despised exercising until my age really forced me to change my ways, haha. I am so glad B The Method exists. It’s that perfect anywhere workout, with no need for crazy equipment. Just you, your mat, and resistance. If I got this as a holiday gift, I would be beyond thrilled. 

A Streaming Subscription. Now that there’s a plethora of streaming services to choose from, if one wishes to have several, the price really adds up, and quickly. So why not gift your movie-loving, tv-binging, entertainment-fiend loved one the gift they truly deserve? A streaming subscription. Below are some favorites: 

• Hulu

• Netflix

• The Criterion Channel

• Paramount+

• Apple TV+

• Mubi

The following have a tougher process since there’s no direct gifting, so here’s a roundabout way. For services such as HBO Max, Prime Video, Disney+, and Shudder, the easiest way is to simply gift money. Whether you want to Zelle, Venmo, or use their Kofi, Patreon, or YouTube tip jars, that’s the fastest way. However, another way is to purchase a subscription yourself but create a login for them. Of course, that means you’ll want to keep track of any renewal dates so they can switch over to their own or cancel in time. But as someone who would love this gift, I would be willing to go that extra mile. Another PSA: please splurge on the Premium tier with no ads. They will be forever grateful! 

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Wishlist 

And if the above two sections didn’t strike your fancy, here’s my current wishlist for some extra inspiration: 

Crown Affair The Clips.* I have a similar clip that I use all the time, but I would love a pair to vary my hairstyles. And you can never go wrong with the Crown Affair aesthetic. I also love their towel, which I have gifted to loved ones before too!

*Crown Affair has an amazing deal right now. 30% off their Ritual Bundle (pick any three items), and you get a free The Towel (which is my absolute favorite hair towel and one I’ve gifted others because I believe in it that much. It takes air-drying to the next level). No code needed!

Crown Affair The Comb No. 002 in Carrara.* I have The Comb No. 001 in Carrara, love it, and use it daily. But I would love a second one to keep in the office at all times. I could always use a quick brush before a zoom meeting (haha). 

Plumscreen® Broad Spectrum SPF 31. I used some of my Credo points to redeem the sample size of this, and there’s no other way to say it: I love it. It feels so incredible on the skin, dries down more than most sunscreens, and only lightens my face just slightly (which, in my case, works out since my face is darker than the rest of my body). I also can’t get enough of the subtle marzipan scent. I love marzipan, but if you don’t, be warned. It does dissipate quickly, though (to my dismay). 

Monastery Rose Cleansing Oil. I have missed this cleanser so much. The scent is breathtaking. While it’s a beautiful cleanser year-round, there is something about the scent that pairs so lovely with wintertime. My heart and skin yearn for it. 

DONNI Poodle Cardi in M. It just looks…so…comfy. 

Rachel Saunders The Cozy Mug. My love for mugs continues. I also really wanted The Smoothie Cup, but alas, it is sold out. 

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As always, I hope you have a great start to your week. See you soon!