When it comes to self-care, we often think big — like splurging on those designer shoes you’ve been eying for months as a reward for hitting a milestone — or itty bitty — like indulging in 30 minutes of extra sleep on the weekend. But there is a sweet spot in between the two ends of the self-care spectrum; those little luxuries that feel like a special treat but don’t break the bank or require tons of time or planning. (Because getting your finances in order is a crucial, if less Instagrammable, part of self-care.)
No one knows this quite like Ashley Merrill, self-proclaimed champion of little luxuries and founder of the luxe sleepwear line Lunya.
I mean, it makes sense: what better way to treat yourself than swapping out the college t-shirt you’ve been sleeping in for a decade for a sophisticated set of silk pajamas? Here, she breaks down the little luxuries she keeps on hand in her Malibu home. The best part? All clock in at under $200.
Really Special Skincare
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream
Hydration, hydration, hydration! While a little pricey, Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream is the ultimate moisturizer and fills all my fine lines for a healthy fresh-faced glow around the house and beyond. It’s especially great when I’m going sans makeup, which is most of the time.
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum
I have a dry face, so I love putting Vintner’s Daughter below a super heavy cream to add nutrients below the barrier of the cream. This particular serum is sadly expensive, but it is packed with good stuff.
Skin Clinical Extreme Healing Repair
Unfortunately, I can get a little rashy during weird weather or with stress. I’ve found Skin Clinical Extreme Healing Repair to be a magic cure all when I get a little red or patchy. Plus, it’s super affordable!
An Incredibly Soft Set of Pajamas
Lunya Silk set
The Lunya Silk Set is one of the pieces I recommend for people new to sleepwear. There is something about sleeping in silk that feels so luxe and the thermoregulating attributes of silk make it great for a wide range of sleepers.
The Organic Pima Romper
The Organic Pima Romper is a culture piece at Lunya and the secret weapon for pregnant women and new moms. Forgiving around the midsection and easy to remove straps make this a crowd-pleasing baby shower gift.
The Restore Legging and the Restore T-Shirt
The Restore Legging and the Restore T are my go to Sunday afternoon attire because they allow me to go from bed to brunch without a pause. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Healthy Indulgences
Gerolstierner water
I’m not a water drinker, but I know I’m supposed to drink it. When I found Gerolsteiner my water woes went away because it has a delicious mineral taste. The glass bottle means there’s no plastic aftertaste and the bubbles keep it interesting.
Boomchickapop Popcorn
I absolutely Boomchickapop popcorn, and I even give every employee that starts at Lunya a big bag on their first day. It’s the best.
Rori’s Ice Cream
Rori’s Ice Cream in Santa Monica is my not-so-healthy indulgence. Sometimes, I lie to myself and say I’m taking my kids, but I’m really treating myself!
