Micro-Luxury Items That Improved a PR Manager’s Life: Sunglasses, Socks

It’s been nearly a decade since Claudia Gough shopped fast fashion.

Instead, the 29-year-old public relations manager for Benefit Cosmetics has focused on investing in mindful, high-quality pieces that will last her a lifetime — or at least, longer than average.

Speaking with Business Insider, Gough, who lives in Australia, said she loves “the concept of micro-luxuries,” which she described as “small indulgences that don’t have to cost a fortune, but really enhance your day-to-day life.”

For Gough, that includes leather ballet flats, a personalized hairbrush, and even a fancy car air freshener.

“It’s taken years to build a wardrobe and home like this, and I definitely don’t take it for granted,” she said. “I’m very aware that these things aren’t necessities. But for me, they’re small moments of joy and self-care that genuinely fill my cup.”

Here’s what she recommends if you’re looking for the same daily feeling of delight.

A $630 cropped jacket and a $220 pair of Agolde jeans are staples of Gough’s wardrobe.

The tan, rhinestoned piece from Sandro Paris is one of Gough’s most frequently worn outerwear pieces.

“It’s structured, but versatile, and somehow works with everything, from denim to dresses,” she said.

Gough often pairs the piece with Agolde’s mid-rise, wide-leg Harper jeans in the shade dark denim.

“The cut is just unmatched,” she said. “They’re flattering, incredible quality, and the perfect shade of blue.”

Each pair features five pockets and is crafted from a blend of new and recycled cotton.

“When I shop, I look for timeless cuts, quality fabrics, and versatility,” Gough added. “If something works across seasons and outfits, it’s worth the investment.”

She splurges on “chic” cashmere socks.

Gough said Maggie Marilyn’s cashmere socks — which cost 95 Australian dollars, or about $63 — are “a tiny luxury that makes such a big difference in winter.”

“They’re warm and cozy, but still look chic,” she said.

The socks feature the logo of the sustainability-forward brand at each ankle, and they’re sold in brown and tan colorways.

“I love supporting Australian and New Zealand designers,” Gough said. “We’re so lucky here to have access to some of the best fashion in the world.”

To elevate her outfits, Gough wears $600 sunglasses.

Celine’s Triomphe Metal 01 sunglasses are the epitome of high quality, according to Gough. She’s had a pair for years and said they “instantly elevate any outfit.”

The oval-framed shades feature green-tinted lenses and gold metal frames. They’re expensive, yes, but they’re occasionally available secondhand.

“Not everything needs to be brand-new,” Gough said. “I love thrifting, and I regularly check Facebook Marketplace for home finds. Shopping mindfully doesn’t always mean shopping expensively.”

Most days, you can find Gough wearing designer ballet flats.

Loro Piana designs her favorite pair: the $950 Rebecca Ballet Flat.

“I wear them at least four times a week,” she said. “They go with everything.”

The calfskin shoes have rounded-point toes, suede interiors, and leather soles. They’re sold in four colors.

In her home, Gough uses checkered towels from Baina.

Baina says on its website that it aims to elevate bathing routines with texture and color using 100% organic cotton. According to Gough, that’s exactly what her favorite towels do.

She uses the $420 set in the sage and chalk colorway to add “subtle luxury” to her everyday routines.

Rather than using any old hairbrush, Gough likes a $100 option from Florietta.

The Australian brand specializes in elevated hair tools that are said to be long-lasting and sustainable. Gough is especially fond of the brand’s Signature Brush, which retails for $101.

“It has boar bristles, which have been amazing for scalp health and hair growth,” she said. “It also looks stunning on a vanity.”

Gough’s brush is personalized with her first name engraved in gold.

Gough said her car smells great thanks to a $120 air freshener.

Many people love Diptyque’s candles — but what about its car air fresheners? Gough is a fan.

She said she spends a lot of time driving and uses the brand’s $120 diffuser, which attaches to her car’s vents. It has an adjustable grill that changes the intensity of its scent and is said to last up to 40 hours.

Each additional insert retails for $70.