The 9 Best Purchases Our Editors Made In January

You know what they say—new year, new buys. And this month has been all about shopping from some of our favourite Canadian brands. From warm winter coats to a cheeky one-of-a-kind mug, here’s what our team bought and loved this month.

Hyba High-Rise Pulse Legging with Ribbed Inserts, $60

“I work out a lot, and I’ve been singing the praises of Reitmans’ activewear line, Hyba, since it launched more than a decade ago. I own multiple pieces and they’re just as durable, comfy and stylish as those from far pricier brands. These super-soft high-rise leggings have just the right amount of waist compression. I added a pair in Darkest Purple to my rotation and I absolutely love wearing them.” —Maureen Halushak, editor-in-chief

J.B. Field’s Hiker GX Merino Wool Socks, $16

“Wool socks are a winter wardrobe essential for me, so I was happy to find a well-priced pair that’s also made in Canada. The light padding makes them great for winter running, and the bright colour pops over my fleece leggings. Hot tip if you’re in Toronto: the brand’s parent company, Great Canadian Sox, has an outlet store in East York. I’ve bought a ton of cozy socks there at a steep discount. (Their site also has some factory seconds at a good price.)” —Gillian Grace, deputy editor, digital 

Joni Period Care Bundles, $20

“For a few months now, I’ve been using menstrual products made by Joni, a Vancouver Island-based company whose pads and tampons are fully biodegradable, organic and plastic-free. Their products are comfortable to use and their branding is practical and inclusive. I also like that they have subscription programs for companies and believe that public institutions and employers should be providing free period care to everyone.” —Chantal Braganza, deputy editor, food

Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream, $73

“This month has been extra cold, and my skin has been incredibly—and worse, visibly—dry. It’s flaky, tight and sometimes even painful. Whenever I need a gentle dose of hydration, I turn to eczema-friendly Canadian brand Skinfix. It does exactly what the name implies: fix my skin. I’m currently using the Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream morning and night to soothe and smooth over dry spots. It contains lipids, peptides and glycerin, and it makes my skin feel stronger and more nourished instantly.” —Andréanne Dion, senior style and beauty editor

Local coffee blends from Saigon Drip, De Mello, Sitlo and Coffee Wallas, from $22

“As a creative director, I’m drawn to beautifully packaged products, and I love supporting local Canadian coffee companies that pair great design with quality brews. I love small-batch, handcrafted blends, and I’m especially drawn to robusta beans for their bold, earthy flavour that’s perfect for Vietnamese drip coffee. Some of my favourites include Saigon Drip’s OG Blend for its smooth, nutty taste, De Mello’s uniquely flavourful roasts and Sitlo Coffee’s Ca Phe Saigon, with bold notes of dark chocolate and caramel. I’m also obsessed with the adorable mini cans of Hatch Crafted’s Chocoatado, a chocolatey oat milk cold brew. My latest buy is from Coffee Wallas. Fun fact: The artwork on both Sitlo and Coffee Wallas packaging was done by my cousin, Stephanie Truong!” —Sun Ngo, creative director

Glubbins Ceramic Mug, $30

“Last year, during Chatelaine’s annual pilgrimage to the One of a Kind Show, editor-in-chief Maureen Halushak and I were on a mission: find an office mug. (We have an awesome barista at Chatelaine HQ who makes a very good flat white.) I came across Eamonn Stewart’s booth, Glubbins, and I was sold. This weird, wacky ceramicware makes me smile every time I see it on my desk. I went with this very devious smiling devil on my mug, who Smith has so lovingly named “Buggler.” Stay tuned to Stewart’s Instagram to snag one of your own lil fellas.” —Erica Lenti, deputy editor, features

Contemporaine Packable Puffer Jacket, $165

“I wanted something transitional for spring and fall and a coat small enough to fit in a suitcase, so I purchased this packable lightweight puffer. I like the slightly slouchy fit. It’s not quite warm enough for the coldest days of winter, but it’s roomy enough for extra layers.” —Amy Evans, commerce editorial director

Ricki’s Wool-Blend Wrap Coat, $190

“I took advantage of those great end-of-year sales recently and invested in a new winter coat. Not only is this wool-blend wrap coat from Ricki’s stylish, but it also keeps me incredibly warm. Whether I’m walking to school or commuting to the Chatelaine office, I love that the deep pockets hold all my essentials. I love the versatility of this coat, which can be worn with the collar draped down, or buttoned up when it’s extra cold outside.” —Nalyn Tindall, editorial intern

Canadian Opera Company Tickets, starting at $45

(Photo: Michael Cooper)

“I love musical theatre and, this year, my goal is to experience as many different types of performances as I can. I’m really looking forward to the Canadian Opera Company’s production of Madama Butterfly. I’m still very new to opera, but I’m delighted to see how diverse the cast is. Soprano Eri Nakamura stars as Butterfly, and seeing a Japanese opera singer is very special to me. Growing up, I never thought that I would ever see myself reflected on stage. Go out and watch a show, a play or a performance! You’ll not only be supporting the performers but everyone who works behind the scenes and front of house!” —Aimee Nishitoba, art director