And we’re back with another A.B.C. Party! Volume 3, who would’ve thunk it!? If you’re new to this series, A.B.C. stands for Anything But Clothes. As previously mentioned, the series name stems from the old college parties I used to attend where you had to show up wearing anything but clothes. Perhaps you covered yourself in playing cards, paper plates, or the game Twister! The rules were simple: show up in anything but actual clothing. I think I took the easy route and wore a trash bag. Or a sheet. (Ghost vibes.)
I’ve asked your favorite writers’ favorite writers on Substack what their most prized possession in this world is. Under one simple condition: it cannot be clothing!
Each writer provided a photo and a synopsis declaring their love for their pick. The captions under each image are brought to you by your in-house comedian (who, tbh, I think is the only one laughing at herself), ME!
Enjoy the super scroll, prepare to have a gazillion tabs open, and let us know which pick has you the most giddy.
Some affiliate links are included below.
Antonia (Scandi Delights) - Nespresso Milk Frother
I am not human before my morning coffee. I live for our Moccamaster, but while the coffee is obviously essential, the real star in my life is my Nespresso milk frother. Until I’ve had this cup of strong coffee and an absurd amount of foamy milk, I’m unavailable for questions, decisions, or basic human interaction.
Emily Bell (Obsessed With) - Feathered Friends Down Throw Blanket
I never want to live in a world where this blanket doesn’t exist. It is cozy to the extreme, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Every night, my husband or I read to our daughters in this big ole’ rocking chair while snuggling up under our Feathered Friends blanket. We’ve even taken it on road trips. It’s the best!
Christina Cardy, DNP (Plan of Care) - Superfood Multi Mist
I love a good facial mist. I've been using this one for years and it instantly refreshes my skin and adds an always-appreciated, uncomplicated hit of hydration (dry skin in Florida is still very much my plight). It’s especially good after a workout, on travel days, or anytime the only skincare "routine" I can muster post-shower is a couple of spritzes to the face.
Alex DiCapo Patel (The Best Best) - Paper Republic Grand Voyageur Leather Journal
I am big on paper goods, and passionate about having a paper planner. Every year I spend way too long deciding which to buy, but this past year I really nailed it!
This planner features big boxes to list to-do’s on each day, and a big blank page for notes. The leather wears beautifully over time, and you can insert other journals/pads to make it your own. The green with red band also reminds me of an olive—a bonus!
ET (Duck Fat) - Alessi Michael Graves Bird Whistle Tea Kettle (ebay link)
Attention deficit girlies, listen up!! I need something that physically screams at me to pay attention - if you relate, might I suggest this Michael Graves-designed Alessi kettle? Bonus that it’s gorgeous (hello, Paloma Elsesser AD tour!) & matches my Alessi timer, moka pot, and clock … hey, the first step is admitting you have a problem ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ But this kettle (along with the timer, strict six minute steep) solves a genuine problem for me!
Effie Forrest (The Rational Astrologer) - Kate McCleod Sun Stone
I don’t have a skincare routine so much as a desire to be present with myself after a long day. Before I go to sleep, I glide this lotion bar over my arms and legs until it melts. It smells like tangerine and sandalwood, the exact smell I want to end my day with.
I wonder whether the concept of a ritual is real or if we just call our habits that to feel better about ourselves. Still unresolved, but the stone stays either way.
Meighan Grady (i think it’s brave) - Sur La Table Bar Magnet
My house is full of things that I am weirdly obsessed with, but the first that comes to mind is my magnetic knife strip, which I don’t use for knives! I use it for keeping everything in the kitchen that I need at my fingertips. It’s amazing how many things in the kitchen are magnetic, making it the perfect system for me — if this is what it means to be 31, I’ll take it.
Brittany Healy (Sunday Bagel) - Maldon Sea Salt
Two words: GOOD! SALT! Two types for different use cases: one kosher salt and one finishing salt. I love Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt for cooking, marinating, and dressings and Maldon Sea Salt for sprinkling (especially atop freshly baked chocolate chip cookies!). I twice brought a 1.25lb tub of Maldon Sea Salt to a White Elephant - big hit both times!
Stephanie Johnson (The Green Apple) - Primula Classic Moka Pot
Lattes are clocking in at $12-$13 here in NYC and about a year ago, I decided enough was enough. I don't have the counterspace (nor expendable income) for a fancy barista machine, so I trusted the Italians and got this Moka Pot. It makes creamy, delicious espresso in minutes and now my morning maple sea salt latte is free.
Jamie Lewin (VETTED) - Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara
A friend introduced me to this mascara a few years ago and I’ve never looked back. It goes on in tubes, which means it comes off in tubes and doesn’t leave raccoon eyes every night when you remove it. It’s been a total game changer. It also makes your eyelashes look a mile along which I’m not complaining about!
Leslie Petrovski (Nakeid) - The BEST knitting group ever!
I’m so cheating, but my thing is … my knitting group.For 15 years we’ve met weekly to drink coffee, solve knitting conundrums and opineabout world affairs. We trade book, movie and series’ recos, share our losses, triumphs,recipes and thoughts on everything from German short rows to the Supreme Court’slatest decisions. Of course, they make my life easier – their ideas, handwork expertise, sharpintellects and love – that’s what smart, feisty women with sticks do.
Nicole Prince (Double Dutch) - Aquaphor Healing Ointment (the classic giant tube)
I have tried nearly every lip product on God’s green earth, clean or otherwise, and pored over hundreds—nay, thousands—of reviews claiming, “My lips have never been this soft!” Maybe my lips are just obstinate, but nearly every product I’ve tried over the past 30-odd years has left them chapped, waxy (ew), or flaky. Except one: Aquaphor, it was always you. x
Marina Mofford (The Nap Trap) - Ryobi Compact Vacuum
This is as sexy as a vacuum gets. I hunted for the perfect playroom and stroller vacuum forever and this is it! It’s super compact but mighty, it’s sleek and doesn’t take up too much space. Using this is so satisfying, I’m finally not ashamed of all the crusty snacks in our stroller and I have no excuse to put off vacuuming small corners of my daughter’s room.
Kait Santos (Align by Kait Santos) - Kindle Paperwhite & Page Kindle Case
My Kindle goes everywhere with me. Even as a mom, when I know I likely won't get a chance to read, it's safely tucked away in my bag, just in case! So easy to use; it's my favorite way to take advantage of the library, and I always have something ready to read. And I love Page's Kindle cases - they have so many fun designs. Pictured here: a coffee chats and Kindle date with my sister. Highly recommend.
Sigrid (Sigrid’s Wardrobe Reflections) - Yoga International Subscription
One thing I can’t imagine living without is my subscription to Yoga International. I started doing 20 minutes of yoga first thing in the morning during Covid, usually still in my pajamas, and it’s one habit I’ve actually kept. It gives me a good start to the day, and my husband says he can tell when I’ve skipped it. I’m a much better person after yoga—or at least slightly less difficult to live with.
the edit etc (The Edit Etc) - Smeg Mini Milk Frother
I've been addicted to matcha ever since I realized coffee left me jittery and talking too fast (the West Village girls would’ve been middle schoolers back then). And dropping $7 a day at my local café for a too-weak matcha wasn't filling the void, so I indulged in this Smeg and a few prerequisite tools and started making my own at home. It’s quiet, easy to use, and whips up my double-strength recipe to a quality that rivals any cafe-bought alternatives. The only problem is, my kids are onto it and dipping into my stash for themselves.
Elaine Wong (TWDY Unfiltered) - By Rosie Jane, Dylan Perfume
I was turned onto by Rosie Jane when I bought a small sampler set. Dylan was the standout and I purchased a full bottle when I had our second child. No nasties in the ingredients because we were nursing. I also LOVE woody and amber scents. This was IT. I've always wanted a signature scent but I flit around too much. This will, however, always be in my rotation.
Xue (Xue) - Amazon Kindle
I bought my first Kindle almost 20 years ago and have used one nearly every day since. It lets me carry an entire library in my bag, which feels both miraculous and mildly dangerous for someone with no resistance to buying books. I still buy the occasional hard copy though because I love the feel and flow of paper. Some pleasures survive even the invention of something objectively more convenient.
Traci Landy, ME! (GOOD RAMBLE) - Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
True story: I was in the ER last year, on my last leg with an infection, when the nurse came in and was like, “Your teeth are so white. Explain…” As I came back from my hazy fever, I shared with her that I had been using this toothpaste! She screenshotted it, checked my fluids, and I’m just hoping that somewhere, wherever she is, she’s also enjoying the benefits of this product! I do think I have graduated to the “Advanced Level” and will try this toothpaste next.
More RaMbLiNg you may enjoy…
Another incredible roundup! Pardon me as I run out and buy a frother, Kindle case, 52 different vessels to make the perfect coffee/tea, and a yoga membership. Okay, yes, there is definitely a lot more on my list.
A big thank you to all the amazing writers who contributed to this work. I highly suggest checking out their Substacks and tapping that subscribe button. You will not be disappointed.
Love ya, mean it!
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Boy do I LIVE for this series! Meighan and I share the same affinity for the Sur La Table magnetic bar, and I’m equally sold on a leather journal (à la Alex) and the giantest possible tube of Aquaphor (Nicole). Officially adding Marina’s Ryobi compact vacuum to cart because my backseat is typically upholstered in snack crumbs.
Maldon salt for white elephant is an elite move that I will absolutely be stealing! This is the best series. Also may need that magnetic bar!