We all want what we can’t have. It’s a scientific fact. Whether it’s the latest It bag straight off the runway, a supercharged sports car, a mini-mansion by the water or an invite to the royal wedding, it’s pretty much a pipe dream for now (we should probably focus on paying down that student loan debt first). But that doesn’t mean we have to deprive ourselves.
Indulging in little luxuries can result in big payoffs. A trip to the salon, a skin care upgrade or fresh flowers in the dead of winter can do wonders for our mood. And that’s pretty good incentive. Here are nine treats guaranteed to make life richer.
La Mer Little Luxuries
A Blowout
Looking for a quick pick-me-up? Nothing makes you feel reenergized like a gorgeous blowout. Head to a blowout-only salon, like Drybar, for a smooth, bouncy look that lasts for days.
Image: Drybar
A Decadent Dessert
Treating yourself to dessert is a sweet way to indulge. Satisfy your sugary cravings with a colorful French macaron from Dana’s Bakery that will have you saying oh là là. (If you’re in New York City, sign up for one of the brand’s macaron making classes.) Dark chocolate more your thing? A rich chocolate mousse will hit the spot.
Image: Burcu Atalay Tankut/Getty Images
Luxe Skin Care
Skin care is one area where investing in a little luxury will pay off big time. Better ingredients backed by some scientific know-how will leave your skin looking gorgeous and glowing. Luxury skin care brand La Mer has achieved cult status for good reason — the products really work. And now the brand has made indulging your skin even easier with the new Little Luxuries collection full of best-sellers in more accessible mini forms (complete with that famously chic packaging). Upgrade your skin care routine with portable versions of Crème de la Mer, The Moisturizing Soft Cream, The Tonic, The Treatment Lotion, The Concentrate, The Renewal Oil, The Lifting and Firming Mask and The Cleansing Foam. Keep within easy reach in your medicine cabinet or stash in your bag for a midday treat at work or after a sweat session at the gym.
Image: La Mer
A Fitness Retreat
Reset your mind and body by booking a fitness retreat. Pamper yourself with Pilates, chi kung and hiking at New Life Hiking Spa in Killington, Vermont. Or you can try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding yoga courtesy of Zen Den Yoga School in Boca Raton, Florida. Retreats also make great girls’ trips with your besties.
Image: iagodina/Getty Images
A Massage
Massages are the perfect indulgence and an ideal way to unwind. Treat yourself after high-stress periods (like the holidays) or as an annual birthday gift just for you.
Image: PeopleImages/Getty Images
Cashmere
Get cozy and instantly upgrade any outfit with a luxe cashmere sweater. Look for one in a classic style you’ll wear for years. It will almost make you look forward to cold weather.
Image: @lamer
A Weekend Getaway
You don’t have to travel halfway around the world to enjoy a vacay. Just book some time to explore nearby destinations. Whether it’s taking a short visit to Niagara Falls, a sightseeing and shopping trip to the city or a stay at a local bed and breakfast, getting out of town (even barely) can do wonders for your psyche.
Image: @lamer
Fresh Flowers
If you want to improve your mood, change your environment. Introduce some fresh flowers into your home (like this très chic arrangement from H. Bloom ) for an instant mood-lifter during the dreary winter months. Between the pleasing scent and the colorful eye candy, the season’s no big thing.
Image: H. Bloom
A Winter Manicure
The best way to snap out of a winter-induced funk? A season-appropriate mani. Opt for a deep purple, dove gray, royal blue, emerald green or dark brown. Or try this eye-catching black and silver nail art look that’s so easy, you can do it yourself.
Image: Imaxtree
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