Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your partner, friends, or self, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself. With the holiday quickly approaching, you can show yourself some self-love by investing in lingerie pieces that’ll make you look and feel sexy. Adore Me is helping out with the brand’s new Valentine’s Day lingerie collection.
No matter your style, size, or vibe, the size-inclusive brand offers an expansive assortment of lingerie in the holiday’s perennial color palette. You can shop from sultry bra-and-panty sets perfect for an intimate date night, lacy catsuits to wear while you drink wine with your gal pals, and embroidered bras to admire yourself in while you have some “you” time. Trust us, you’ll want to don these flirty pieces every day after Valentine’s Day, too.
If you’re new to Adore Me, the brand is currently offering first-time purchase discounts, with nearly the entire Valentine’s Day collection selling for under $40 per lingerie set. If you’re a VIP member, the deals are even greater.
Adore Me’s iconic lingerie set is the perfect addition to your date-night look. In addition to an under-boob moment, the bra and underwear each have satin bows that can be untied like a present.
If you want to go for a more classic and glamorous option, this dramatic and delicate lace bodysuit is sure to get both your heart and your partner’s racing.
Be boudoir-shoot-ready in a red ruched and black lace set. The demi push-up bra and matching panty set (choose between a thong or bikini style) are a sensual buy.
If you’re planning on celebrating Galentine’s Day (or any girls’ night for that matter), opt for Adore Me’s frilly and flirty pieces dotted with hearts. This sheer-cup bustier set can also be paired with one of the brand’s heart-shaped nipple pasties.
Or opt for another heart-embroidered set that offers more coverage. Throw a silk robe on over this, and precede to happily eat charcuterie, gossip, and watch movie marathons with your friends.
Catsuits are so in, and that applies to lingerie now, too. Rock this bold halter-style one-piece at home with a pair of panties underneath or out with a jacket overtop.
Yes, a red lip patch-embroidered bra set would be perfect to wear on Valentine’s Day, but why not for the other 364 days of the year, too? Feel yourself year-round in this sheer masterpiece.
Get a snatched hourglass look in one of Adore Me’s high-quality and comfortable sweetheart corset tops. And feel empowered to take on the corset trend and wear your lingerie out as a statement top.
This bright-pink set is sweet and sexy all at once. The balcony bra’s keyhole adds some extra flare to this lacy look. The set also comes with a matching garter belt.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
In Refinery29’sTalking Shopseries, we’re chatting with owners of up-and-coming small businesses about their experiences launching, the big challenges and wins they’ve faced, and, of course, their products and services.
When British handbag designer Esin Akan was launching her namesake brand in 2012, she knew the challenges she was up against — after all, she had already been around the high-end accessories block while working for the likes of Burberry and Anya Hindmarch. She’d also been on the consumer end as well, searching for a bag that could help organize her day-to-night life. Ironically enough, however, the brands she had worked for couldn’t exactly deliver the goods she needed. While at those gigs, Akan witnessed firsthand the trials and tribulations of bringing extremely pricey designer goods to the city folks who needed them most for their daily grind. The chic urbanites were willing to invest in quality, stylish bags but these carryalls also had to hold up to everyday schlepping. But where to find trendy, premium bags that didn’t cost a fortune? That’s when Akan ventured to design her own collection, honing in on a classic-but-contemporary aesthetic that could nestle somewhere in between the longstanding heritage legacy of Burberry and the cartoony quirk of Anya Hindmarch.
Ahead, we catch up with Akan on her emerging brand — which has already piqued the interest of British style stars like Cressida Bonas, Olivia Bentley, Mariko Kuo, Lolita Mas, and, the royal herself, Meghan Markle — and how sustainable practices, functional designs, and a handful of Turkish artisans have come together for a lineup of handbags made to carry you throughout whatever your day holds.
How would you describe the Esin Akan customer?
“She is a confident, independent, and courageous woman who loves to enjoy life. She is financially independent, works hard, and plays hard. She values her family and friends. She is interested in travel, art, shopping, business, investment, trends, fashion, and food. She loves exploring, traveling, and enjoying herself at any point. She is a sensible shopper who likes to award herself with life’s luxuries. She values authentic brands and unique, timeless designs. She loves to explore fashion brands and trends and appreciates quality over quantity. She cares about sustainability, how things are made, and the brands’ contribution to our planet.”
What did you feel was missing in the handbag space that led you to launch Esin Akan?
“When I started working for Anya Hindmarch, I looked for a bag in my new boss’s range to impress her. I needed a bag suitable for work, gym, and an evening out. None of the bags suited my needs for a weekday. A day started at the gym, continued at the office, and ended with my girlfriends at a cocktail bar in Central London. Most bags I found in the market were too small or too big, too functional but not aesthetically pleasing, logo-focused but not necessarily high quality, and too expensive. I thought women deserved better — a light bag that accommodates everyday essentials in an organized way that looks cool and unique and adapts to multiple occasions. A high-quality bag without the designer bag price tag. A bag designed around the lifestyle of an urban woman, but not only in trends. That’s how the seeds of my own handbag line and brand were planted.”
What sets Esin Akan apart from other handbag brands?
“We design distinctive and timeless leather handbags that are sustainably crafted for confident women to stand out while enjoying any occasion. Every piece in our collection is multipurpose and can adapt to multiple scenarios: From day to evening, weekend to a wedding, work to a weekend break. The Midi Belgravia, our best seller, can be worn as an everyday crossbody bag or as a clutch for a business meeting, or as a shoulder bag for an evening out with girlfriends. No need to go home and swap!”
Why and how did you decide on Turkey as the country (and its craftspeople) to manufacture your bags?
“While working for Burberry, I worked with a couple of great suppliers in Turkey. I realized during production that Turkey is a hub for high-quality leather bag production due to the availability of high-quality leather and experienced leather artisans, and shorter lead times. Most globally well-known designer brands have been producing their leather bags in Turkey because the exceptionally well-trained artisans craft designer bags with exquisite attention to detail.”
How has your brand evolved since its launch in 2012?
“I launched the business during my MBA at London Business School. It was right after our company got the start-up award of the year, and we won a space in the LBS incubator program. Our first office was at the [school’s] campus. My first sale was on a piece of paper in the [local] pub. Fascinating times. I have been well-supported by the LBS community, which gave me enough courage and all the resources I needed to take the business off the ground. Today, we sell in the most prestigious stores worldwide, including Harvey Nichols, Macy’s, Hudson Bay, and Lafayette. Our sales have grown massively over the years since we started. The Royal Family has supported us for our sustainable practices, and many celebrities have worn the brand worldwide as well.”
How were your experiences working at Burberry and Anya Hindmarch informative to launching your own brand?
“Burberry was massive, and I learned a lot! I felt like an intra-preneur at the time of Angela Ahrendts, one of the most inspiring woman leaders. Everyone was working so passionately and creatively. I admired that. I liked working in an international team; however, seeing things at such an enormous scale was slightly scary, I have to say. I thought I could never do that on my own, considering Burberry had over 1,000 people in the office.”
“Anya Hindmarch is a smaller-scale business and it gave me the courage [to launch my own brand]. Before joining Anya Hindmarch, I remember reading an article [where Hindmarch] advised young people to do what they love and everything will follow. Later, our roads crossed and split, and in the end, I did what she had advised. I never looked back. So happy my path crossed with someone who has been a real inspiration. She is so lovely, so creative, and down to earth. I learned so much from both of my experiences.”
What are some of the ways you’re sustainably forward at the brand?
“All our leathers are a byproduct of the food industry, sourced from certified tanneries that are respectful to the environment. We produce in small runs so there is no excess stock and we utilize the leather scraps in our small leather goods so there is a no-waste policy. We plant a tree for every purchase in cooperation with ECOLOGI, and we donate to women’s scholarship funds in the world’s most prestigious universities in UK and US.”
Tell us about the best-selling styles — and also your personal favorites.
“The Midi Belgravia is the best seller as an everyday, every-purpose bag. The Midi Pimlico is an all-time classic — it’s the bag that made us famous with Meghan Markle. These days, my personal favorite is the Emma in black because it fits my laptop and my all-day essentials. It’s also ultra light! I also LOVE my Cornwall phone wallet that goes perfectly with my Emma bag. I just put in my phone and cards to avoid carrying the tote while on a lunch break or going out for drinks after work.”
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Valentine’s Day can stump the best of us. On top of the whole holiday serving as a dedicated relationship reminder (aka whether we have one or not), there’s an added gifting component too. It's a February 14 shopping tradition that can become even further complicated when the Y-chromosomes in our lives aren't longing for standard gifts like floral arrangements or chocolate.
But! There's no need for present drama in 2023 because we’ve got the best Valentine's gifts for him lined up right here to save you from last-minute gifting fiascos. Scroll on for our curated hit list of everything from creative gadgets to unique fashion finds to very cool grooming products that your main man (whether best bud, family member, or partner for life) will adore. And for those who are opting out of V-Day altogether, the 34 finds ahead are all still single-and-fabulous-approved.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Bleu De Chanel Eau de Toilette Refillable Twist and Spray
Gifting fragrance can be a tricky move, but we'd venture to say that any man would be eager to make this refillable citrus-sandalwood his new signature scent.
Chanel BLEU DE CHANEL Eau de Toilette Refillable Twist and Spray, $, available at Sephora
The Sill Hoya Hearty
It may be a little on the nose, but nothing says "I love you" better than a heart-shaped succulent for him to dutifully take care of.
With travel plans hopefully in your future, we recommend elevating his on-the-go grooming routine with this handmade Dopp kit from Cuyana.
Cuyana Men's Toiletry Case, $, available at Cuyana
Cable Guys Darth Vader Device Holder
This miniature Vader is perfectly sized to hold his gaming controller or iPhone — it also uses the Force to charge tech devices (okay, fine, a 6-foot micro USB cable).
Cable Guys Star Wars Darth Vader Device Holder, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Duke Cannon Beer & Bourbon Soap Box
Treat him to a toiletry lineup that will keep his top-shelf on brand. Duke Cannon's epic bundle contains three bars of beer soap (a sandalwood-scented Busch Beer, citrus-woodsy IPA, and warm-cedarwood Budweiser) paired with one bar of bourbon soap (an oak-barrel-scented Buffalo Trace Bourbon).
If you and your partner like to keep things simple with a thoughtful card exchange, look to Etsy for well-made, totally unique designs. After all, nothing says "romance" quite like Elaine Benes' ultimate stamp of approval.
presspops Elaine Valentine's Day Spongeworthy Card, $, available at Etsy
Man Crates Grand Jerky Heart
This year, say it with...beef jerky. If your man has a special place in his heart for dried, smoked meats, then this gift box will surely delight.
Man Crates Jerky Heart, $, available at Man Crates
Tetra Valise Keychain
For men who prefer to roll their own: this sleek and nifty keychain contains a hexagon-shaped interior chamber made to store his rolled smokes (big and small).
Gift him the tool he never knew he needed to tame his unkempt beard hairs. The before-and-after shots of dudes across the web all point towards this being a very good buy — as one partner put it, "Works like a charm. It's sleek and lightweight and does its job. I'm glad I bought it for my boyfriend because his beard was getting unruly, but now maybe he will actually DO something with it!"
Hot Tools Men’s Beard Straightener Brush, $, available at Amazon
Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit
Bring the heat this Valentine's Day with a DIY hot sauce kit that allows you to get creative in the kitchen. (Bonus points if you put your taste buds to the test with an at-home Hot Ones challenge.)
Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit, $, available at Uncommon Goods
Bevel Beard Trimmer
If your dad's still reaching for his circa 1990s-beard trimmer, upgrade his life with this top-rated ultra-sleek model by Bevel. (Plus: It's cordless!)
A fancy candle he'll finally appreciate. Diptyque's Feu de Bois (famously known as the "John Mayer candle") features a subtly smoky, woody scent profile to elevate any man cave.
Diptyque Feu de Bois/Wood Fire Candle, $, available at Nordstrom
Backcountry Gore-Tex Snow Gloves
Fuel your man's next outdoor adventure (or double-black diamond run on the slopes) with these durable leather gloves.
Backcountry GORE-TEX Snow Glove, $, available at Backcountry
Madewell Mens Athletic Slim Jeans
They're the brand behind your favorite jeans, so why not share the love with your guy? From the lightweight feel to relaxed-but-not-slouchy fit, we're willing to be he'll never want to buy denim from anywhere else again.
Madewell Athletic Slim Jeans in Rinse Wash, $, available at Madewell
HigherDose Infrared PEMF Mat
If he's into his mind-body connection, likes to meditate, or could just use some damn tension relief, then this bestselling infrared mat will do the trick.
HigherDose Infrared PEMF Mat, $, available at HigherDose
Proof 72-Hour Merino Henley Sweater
There are two things I know to be true: One, men love henleys. Two, women love to see their men in henleys. I can't explain why, but all I know is that this luxe take on our favorite buttoned top is sure to be a hit.
Proof 72-Hour Merino Henley Sweater, $, available at Huckberry
Great Jones Holy Sheet Baking Pan
This pun's for all the big baking guys out there! Gift him something shiny and new that he can whip you up some Valentine's Day treats on.
Great Jones Holy Sheet, $, available at Great Jones
Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie
Beanies are a lot like friends: He can never have too many (and already has a lot).
Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie, $, available at Amazon
Theragun Mini
Theragun's mighty massager has taken the world by storm, and it's easy to see why: The device is a magic wand for sore, overworked muscles, making it a great gift if you're splurging on your fitness-loving partner this year.
Therabody Theragun mini, $, available at Therabody
Bespoke Post Cask
Transform his love of spirits into a constructive activity — this reusable kit will have him brewing up and bottling his very own aged whiskey at home in time for V-Day dinner.
Bespoke Post Charred American White Oak Mini Barrel, $, available at Bespoke Post
Marc Joseph Glendale Perforated Leather Sneaker
Upgrade his ancient pair of sneaks with something that strikes the perfect balance of knock-around luxe.
Marc Joseph New York Glendale Perforated Leather Sneaker, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
6-in 1 Multitool Pen Gadget
This nifty little hand gizmo isn't just a sleek writing utensil; it's also a level, ruler, phone/tablet stylus, and both a flathead and Phillips screwdriver in one. (Don't mind if we order one for ourselves, too.)
CRANACH 6-in 1 Multitool Pen Gadget, $, available at Amazon
Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger
Soft, stretchy, and available in myriad colors? No man can resist the siren song of Vuori's elevated, exceedingly comfortable joggers.
Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger, $, available at Vuori
LEGO Creator James Bond Aston Martin DB5 10262
Appeal to your guy's inner child with an all-grown-up LEGO set in the likeness of 007's iconic set of wheels.
LEGO Creator James Bond Aston Martin DB5 10262, $, available at Target
Lululemon Drysense Hoodie
Effortlessly chic and practically repellant to sweat, this fan-fave Lululemon hoodie is about to be his new loungewear MVP — and won't embarrass him OR you whilst errand-running around town.
Lululemon Drysense Hoodie, $, available at Lululemon
The Best Paste Low Shine Medium Hold Hair Paste
If your significant other has ever gone to the barber with a photo of Ryan Reynolds or Daniel Craig...or Jake Gyllenhaal...or Shawn Mendes (should we go on?), chances are they've unknowingly come across the work of master stylist and celebrity groomer Kristan Serafino. This matte-finish, firm-hold hair paste from her very own brand is leading man hair in a jar — and is as close as one can possibly get to booking her for what we can only assume would be a very expensive house call.
The Best Paste Low Shine Medium Hold Hair Paste, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Bellroy Note Sleeve Wallet
Dads, grandpas, husbands, VIP buds...they'll all appreciate this high-on-quality, low-on-bulk wallet. It's made of superior leather, comes with a coin holder and secret pocket, is available in10 colors, and has a three-year warranty. Boom.
Win 10,000 relationship points by gifting him what's likely been collecting dust in his Amazon wish list since last year: a portable, sleek Nintendo Switch Lite. If you're feeling extra generous, add in a game for him to enjoy.
Nintendo Nintendo Switch Lite - Blue, $, available at Amazon
Away The Packable Sling Bag
If your man is always on the move, help him get there in ease and style with this lightweight crossbody made from water-repellant nylon.
The easiest way to upgrade his look is with a pair of fresh shade blockers that you can both get behind.
Toddy, Warby Parker Toddy Sunglasses, Azure Crystal With Oak Barrel, $, available at Warby Parker
Solento Organic Reposado Tequila
This organic tequila is harvested in small batches in Jalisco, making it perfect for savoring every sip together.
Solento Organic Reposado Tequila, $, available at Drizly
Apple Watch Series 8
If you're down to go big this Valentine's Day, you can't go wrong with the latest model of Apple's sleek Apple Watch featuring a crystal-clear display and sleek navy blue case.
Apple Apple Watch Series 8 GPS 41mm Midnight Aluminum Case wi, $, available at Walmart
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
