what we love THIS MONTH

No mention of raindrops on roses or whiskers on kittens, but heseare a few of our (other) favourite things...

Charmed, I’m sure

Before my birthday each year, my husband starts following me around the shops, telling me to ‘point at things’. The system works: I get things I really want, he doesn’t have to scurry around the shops at the last minute, and I don’t have to pretend to be delighted by a teddy bear in a mug (or whatever the female equivalent of soapon-a-rope is). This year, I pointed at a rose gold version of Famke’s Fingers Crossed necklace, and I’ve barely taken it off since. I love the delicate engraving and the playful take on a good-luck charm. They are R500 and you can get them online at famke.co.za. – Liesl

Hot socks

I am a real sock lover, and on one of our recent shoots our lovely fashion stylist, Annelee Joubert, unwrapped a pair from Scotch & Soda that made my toes tingle. The socks are quite exquisite, and if you want to spoil someone for their birthday then they’re not too pricey – they are Scotch & Soda, after all! For R340-odd you too could own a pair of sparkly gold socks with pink trim, or my favourite ones: a black sparkly pair with ruffled tops and cream-coloured hearts. Perfect for the looming winter days. – Caryn

Gin master general

I’m a bit of a craft gin fanatic, but I guess as a Capetonian that’s like saying, ‘I breathe air.’ It seems everyone is getting in on the craft gin craze, so why not me?

Founded in 2018 by Simon von Witt (the man behind the Woodstock Gin Company) and Warren Harries-Jones (owner of Dragon Fiery Ginger), Distillers Union in Woodstock is a collective of like-minded craft brewers and distillers. Here you’ll find a working brewery and distillery where visitors can see how artisans make their magic; a tasting room and bar for all your craft gin, brewski and cocktail needs; and gin-making courses!

One of their knowledgeable staff members took us through the history of gin, from its use as a form of medicine, all the way through Prohibition to today. Then you get to play around with floral, spicy, citrus and herbal botanicals until you perfect your recipe – mine had a hint of chilli and lavender.

The whole thing costs R600 in total, which is a steal when you consider that the price includes two drinks, snacks, a gin tasting, a guided gin-making course and your own custom-made 500ml bottle of gin, complete with personalised label.

– Charis

Birthday spoils

This was my ‘from me to me’ birthday gift because I’d tried a sample and loved it so much I had to buy the full-sized product.

Estée Lauder’s Revitalizing Supreme Light+ Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Creme is light and luxurious and – as I’m learning is the case with most Estée Lauder products – you need very little. This cream is oil-free, non-greasy, and my skin feels deeply moisturised and supple. And those pesky fine lines seem to have disappeared.

I apply it every morning and evening on my face and neck. At R1 595 for 50ml, it’s a splurge, but I simply love this product and will continue using it. Available from esteelauder.co.za – Crystal

My first vellies

Since interviewing author Sally Andrew (in our October 2019 issue) and being introduced to Tannie Maria and her iconic vellies, I’ve been dying to own a pair of veldskoene. They’re the quintessential South African shoe and I love how they’ve been rebranded from stoere boere booties to trendy footwear. So when Bata sent FAIRLADY a pair in my size, it was a sign. Originally designed in 1939, the Safari boot by Bata adds a modern touch to the traditional style with a fun splash of colour. These shoes are super comfy and sturdy

– you can wear them for walking in the veld or the streets of Cape

Town. Ladies Legacy Safari

Shoes, R499,99; available from builders.co.za – Charis

Leafy goodness

I know we’re all starting to get a bit tired of all the CBD products cluttering our shelves, but this lovely sparkling water deserves a mention. Goodleaf’s CBDinfused sparkling water comes in four very different flavours: berry hibiscus, mango ginger, aloe rose and peach geranium. My favourite is the aloe rose, interestingly enough. It doesn’t contain any sugar, so it’s very subtle in flavour, and served ice cold it’s hugely refreshing. Visit them online at goodleaf.co.za – Caryn