Shopping Director Jessica Andrews's 11 Must Haves, From Packing Cubes to Lip Oil
If you saw my closet, you wouldn't be surprised to learn that I spend an inordinate amount of time shopping. Long before I became the shopping director at PS, I considered myself somewhat of a retail expert because I really treat it like a sport. When I go shopping, it's not just that I'm looking for the perfect cat-eye sunglasses or most comfortable sneakers, I need to get them on major sale with store credit I've been saving and a gift with purchase added on top. That's the equivalent of a touchdown to me. My first love is fashion and I have the aforementioned closet to show for it, but my shopping list has expanded to include everything from furniture to travel products to spa services. My mission? To find investment pieces and experiences that are truly worth the purchase — and even better if I can get them for half the price.
This summer, I'm leaning into my shopping hobby like never before. I'm giving in and getting the famous "Alix Earle light" to have on hand for TikTok filming, Zoom meetings, and more. I'm excited to furnish my new home (and especially can't wait to choose outdoor furniture). I'm stocking up on travel products for an upcoming trip to New Orleans.
I'm researching the best skin-care products in the market from serums to face sunscreens. I'm trying out all the top-rated at-home fitness equipment, including adjustable dumbbells. I'll be treating myself to a few summer dresses and comfortable heels. And finally, I'm filling my kitchen with every cookware item my baker heart can stand.
Keep reading to shop the best items from my spring wish list from brands like Wayfair, Banana Republic, Supergoop, Béis, and more.
![NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 12: Guest is seen outside Brandon Maxwell show wearing navy blue blazer, white, red and blue patterned dress, black Prada nylon hobo handbag and black leather heels on September 12, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jeremy Mo](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/ij9x1Cu-rXBQ9r2Z2KEMgRjU3mQ=/fit-in/792x1187/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/871/n/49352476/tmp_vF8wvJ_78b668942f291f8b_GettyImages-1682845135.jpg)
![Moisturizing Lip Oil](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/0iwqoBQCnUVwvRrdpBgsw-md6nQ=/fit-in/792x788/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/11/867/n/49352476/64314d37fe45918a_51EX-pqnwNL._SL1500_.jpg)
Moisturizing Lip Oil
Ami Colé Hydrating Lip Treatment Oil ($20)
The one staple in my beauty bag is lip oil. I always keep my lips moisturized and Ami Colé is my brand of choice. The long-lasting formula adds just enough color and shine while nourishing my lips with a mix of baobab-seed oil, camellia oil, and passion-fruit-seed oil. Created by my dear friend Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye, who is such a visionary, the lip treatment comes in an array of flattering shades from chocolate brown to bright red.
![Invisible Sunscreen](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/qRoPTAzmm6dKuu6O8wTvxLRgdUw=/fit-in/792x792/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/695/n/49352476/0056876908bcde6c_jess-51FKZvokSbL._SL1500_.jpg)
Invisible Sunscreen
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 ($38)
One item I'll never leave out of my skin-care routine is SPF. I apply this Supergoop sunscreen religiously every day, and multiple times daily when I'm on vacation soaking up the sun rays. I love that the formula doesn't leave a white cast while delivering plenty of UV protection.
![Packing Cubes](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/AdwwMNT7kcBrdjxQCQHEGd-esRE=/fit-in/493x739/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/695/n/49352476/c5a95c924bf184d7_jess-BEIS219156-Backpack-Olive-Product-Front_2032_V2_0045_6pink1.webp)
Packing Cubes
Béis Compression Cubes in Atlas Pink ($58)
I have my packing strategy down to a science (clothes in my carry-on suitcase and accessories in my personal bag), but I can fit even more items with packing cubes. Not only does the compression technology help me save a ton of space, the cubes keep me organized because I can separate by outfit. And of course I had to choose pink to match my Béis rolling luggage.
![A Summer Dress](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/MpgLvr1aXQmCjzvyI7vqOGY51OI=/fit-in/792x1060/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/699/n/49352476/4546d8c8e86bde88_Screen_Shot_2024-05-02_at_8.44.54_AM.png)
A Summer Dress
Banana Republic Cici Poplin Mini Dress ($120, originally $150)
Summer fashion is all about vibrant, colorful tones, and this Banana Republic minidress is one of my favorites. The low neckline and cinched waist are super flattering, and the pleating detail adds an elegant touch. I love pairing this with a leather jacket for a look that feels romantic and edgy at the same time.
![A Travel Skin-Care Kit](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/6nwTvfuFYjDfrJWnza2pwR_XzjU=/fit-in/660x1000/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/699/n/49352476/249dbfb30fb8eb64_Screen_Shot_2024-05-02_at_8.45.22_AM.png)
A Travel Skin-Care Kit
Dr. Barbara Sturm Darker Skin Tones Skin Care Discovery Set ($115)
I'm one of those people who never abandons their skin-care routine, no matter how tired I am and especially not on vacation. In fact, a trip gives me even more time to indulge! I swear by Dr. Barbara Sturm's products; she's an acclaimed aesthetics doctor whose clients include Angela Bassett and Bella Hadid. This collection specifically caters to shoppers with darker skin tones with finds like an enzyme cleanser, a hyaluronic serum, and face creams. It keeps my skin looking radiant and blemish-free.
![A Steamer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/9s8DDtY62aSWbfEd6aVTStqm4DI=/fit-in/792x1190/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/719/n/49352476/cc0cea8494f418d9_Screen_Shot_2024-05-02_at_9.15.59_AM.png)
A Steamer
Steamery Cirrus 3 Steamer ($180)
Having started my career as a fashion assistant, I've spent countless hours steaming clothes for photo shoots, and I have to say, I prefer it to ironing. This popular steamer allows you to do both, and the plate even heats up to the equivalent of a level one temperature on an iron. It works so well for getting rid of wrinkles and even drying my clothing without damaging the fabric.
![Baking Dishes](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/V1JM__OQGfpCr-SQ1y0nnSCaZxc=/fit-in/792x426/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/700/n/49352476/d4f5af9d27d2050c_jess-51eE-i-9GkL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Baking Dishes
Le Creuset Heritage 3-Piece Rectangular Baking Dish Set ($135, originally $195)
Baking is one of my favorite pastimes and it's something my sister, mother, and I have in common. These baking dishes from Le Creuset are high on our list of bakeware musts: they distribute heat evenly so my bread pudding always comes out perfect. The cleanup is also quick and breezy thanks to the glazed interior. The set features 12.5-inch, 10-inch, and 7.5-inch dishes and comes in various colors, including red, pink, white, and dark green.
![Adjustable Dumbbells](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/OOuicAuYrx48qHkghVUOYQwGpRA=/fit-in/792x603/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/718/n/49352476/7e93c67d4624d8aa_jess-71bNoNVJERL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Adjustable Dumbbells
5-in-1 Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbells ($190, originally $200)
Inspired by my brother's home gym, I'm ready to create a whole setup for working out at home, and dumbbells are the first shopping item on my list. Rather than spend a ton on various weights, I found this cost-effective adjustable set that saves me money, time, and space. It's been a game changer for my workout, whether I'm focusing on building core strength or keeping my arms toned.
![A Cooler](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/ejnVUn2-WPdcgpUn_jU2VRNIRPo=/fit-in/792x792/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/695/n/49352476/0182aab395652497_jess-brutank-35qt-neon-pink_768x_crop_center_2x.progressive.webp)
A Cooler
BrüMate BrüTank 35-Quart Rolling Cooler ($325)
My dad always hosted guests in his outdoor space while I was growing up, and I'm excited to carry on the tradition in my new home. For my first gathering, I'm excited to have this cooler for drinks on hand. My neon-pink BrüTank cooler gets the job done, but it's also small enough that I can bring it with me to the beach or the park. It includes a drink tank with a built-in tap, a bottle opener (which always comes in handy), and all-terrain wheels that glide smoothly — even over sand and grass.
![A Statement Handbag](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/xo1QStRR0HY2XqN7IITxoGFvESM=/fit-in/658x1018/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/699/n/49352476/9d1def69c4689b56_Screen_Shot_2024-05-02_at_8.45.10_AM.png)
A Statement Handbag
Petit Kouraj Mini Fringe Top Handle Bag ($240, originally $395)
Fringe bags are a popular handbag trend at the moment, but nothing on the market compares to the designs by Petit Kouraj,f ounded by Nasrin Jean-Baptiste. Every piece is handmade in Haiti with consideration and care, each taking eight to 12 hours to complete. The colors run the gamut from cream and brown to a black base with rainbow-colored fringe string, making every design an instant conversation starter. Though the bags are essentially wearable art, they're also pretty functional: they come with a removable satin pouch to keep your items in place and can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried via the top handle.
![An Outdoor Chair](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/nPzdBg-sgvQL6J4sAokFyjwrcv8=/fit-in/792x792/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/695/n/49352476/c8699257c5de6877_jess-Cuccia_Egg_Patio_Chair_with_Cushions.webp)
An Outdoor Chair
Bayou Breeze Cuccia Egg Patio Chair with Cushions ($430, originally $460)
Can you tell I'm excited about having outdoor space to furnish this season? There are few things I love more than reading a good book and getting some fresh air, and I look forward to doing just that in this gorgeous, cozy chair from Wayfair. The soft cushions are perfect for sinking into and relaxing while you enjoy the great weather. And the handwoven wicker adds a modern, bohemian touch that feels like the perfect complement to my backyard. Even better? It's resistant to rusting, deforming, fading, and cracking, so it's a durable piece you can count on to last a long time.
![](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/cPXZ_9iEoBFUZABy91nYAqsb4Lg=/fit-in/792x11/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/05/02/894/n/49352476/6f70cc80aa98b81a_Commerce_Mini_Bio_Slides.png)
Jessica C. Andrews (she/her) is the senior content director of shopping and UK at PS. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She's appeared on "Good Morning America," NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.