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Dullness can affect your skin at any age, regardless of your skin type. For those suffering from uneven texture and tone, incorporating one of the best brightening serums into your skin care routine will help reveal a more radiant complexion and even help correct some other skin care woes as well. Harnessing the power of potent ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol and lactic acid, these serums penetrate deep into the skin and exfoliate away dead skin cells, resulting in the reduction of dark spots, acne scars, sun spots, hyperpigmentation and other sources of discoloration and unwanted texture. In addition to giving your skin a radiance-boosting polish, these ingredients are also renowned for their anti-aging fighting capabilities due to their rejuvenating effect on the skin, which aids in the production of collagen and elastin and firms fine lines and wrinkles. The best brightening serums also boast hydrating and antioxidant benefits as well, combining emollients like hyaluronic aci...

And just like that, Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Christmas trees and holiday wrapping paper have been replaced by heart-shaped boxes of chocolate, and the feeling of love is in the air. However, navigating the minefield that is what to get for that special man in your life on Valentine’s Day can be a tricky one, especially if his interests have lately been limited to the Hulu and Netflix. No matter if you’re buying a present for your fiancé or your nephew, the men in your life deserve a little treat to show them how much you care. From playful accessories, stylish wardrobe essentials, budget-friendly buys to investment pieces that will last a lifetime, WWD has rounded up the top 17 gifts that are sure to add a dose of style for the fashion lover in your life. 1. Savage x Fenty Smoking Jacket This limited-edition Savage x Smoking Jacket, $89.95, features soft satin fabric and a logo embroidered chest pocket, perfect for a quarantine date night. 2. Hanro Elias Boxer Shorts These...

Your at-home blowout will only be as good as your heat tools. If frizz and static are an inevitable end result of your efforts, it may be time to invest in one of the best infrared hair dryers. Utilizing far-infrared heat technology, these innovative devices produce a shorter wavelength that increases the speed of your hair’s dry time by heating the follicle from the inside out, resulting in a salon-quality finish. Offering a gentler and more concentrated airflow than traditional hair dryers, the best infrared hair dryers also minimize damage to your strands by creating a protective layer around them, which helps prevent overheating your hair and scalp. Far-infrared heat is believed to help improve the health of your scalp by stimulating circulation, translating to stronger, thicker tresses. These heat tools also counteract the positive, static-causing ions in your hair using ceramic and tourmaline negative ion technology, which sufficiently seals the cuticle and removes water molecule...

Another day, another holiday we’re spending with our loved ones virtually. Despite being sheltered in, you can still treat your loved ones with a Balenciaga Valentine sweatshirt or a Gucci sterling silver heart pendant necklace. Here, WWD features 28 of the best gifts for anyone. 1. Fornasetti “Brindisi” Tray Fornasetti’s “Brindisi” wood silk-screened, painted and lacquered-by-hand tray, $1,331.11. 2. Cassina & Ginori 1735 “La Course Du Soleil” Rectangular Tray  This rectangular tray, $335.50, produced by Ginori 1735, has a decorative symbol that was designed by Le Corbusier in 1956. The rectangular tray features the solar movement, made in matte white porcelain with a biscuit effect. 3. Grow Fragrance Amber Santal Candle Grow Fragrance’s candles are the first certified 100 percent plant-based, toxin-free candles. Each insert is made from aluminum that can be recycled after use and they come in reusable concrete vessels. One of their most popular scents, Amber Santal has notes ...

In a video case study by Multimedia Plus Inc. with Noura Shehabeldin, national training manager at Steve Madden Ltd., the executive shared how the footwear and accessories brand used the technology company’s Incite solution to maintain communication with store associates during the pandemic, which included safety training as stores reopened as well as product presentations and review of the company’s sustainability efforts. Shehabeldin said after the lockdown period early last year, stores were slowly opened “with a skeleton staff.” She said the brand “went big with Multimedia Plus Incite because we know this was the tool to make sure all of our communications got into the hands of our employees.” Shehabeldin was being literal: The Incite platform operates on mobile devices used by store associates. Shehabeldin was interviewed by Jodi Harouche, chief creative officer and president of Multimedia Plus, as part of a “Retail Rockstars” series. The training manager at Steve Madden said the ...

In a video case study by Multimedia Plus Inc. with Noura Shehabeldin, national training manager at Steve Madden Ltd., the executive shared how the footwear and accessories brand used the technology company’s Incite solution to maintain communication with store associates during the pandemic, which included safety training as stores reopened as well as product presentations and review of the company’s sustainability efforts. Shehabeldin said after the lockdown period early last year, stores were slowly opened “with a skeleton staff.” She said the brand “went big with Multimedia Plus Incite because we know this was the tool to make sure all of our communications got into the hands of our employees.” Shehabeldin was being literal: The Incite platform operates on mobile devices used by store associates. Shehabeldin was interviewed by Jodi Harouche, chief creative officer and president of Multimedia Plus, as part of a “Retail Rockstars” series. The training manager at Steve Madden said the ...

Priyanka Chopra Jonas is very busy — despite the pandemic. “Unusually busy,” she said, on a video call from London. “It’s crazy.” She typically lives a fast-paced life (alongside pop star husband Nick Jonas) as an actor and producer, balancing several projects at once, she explained. And while confined to her home in lockdown for six months last year, she continued to keep busy. She worked on developing TV shows, signed a multimillion-dollar first-look deal with Amazon and wrote a memoir, “Unfinished,” which will be released on Feb. 9. When she was able to leave her house in October, she returned to the set of Lana Wachowski’s upcoming and much buzzed about “The Matrix 4” with Keanu Reeves, then wrapped Sony Pictures’ “Text for You” (“with Sam Heughan and Celine Dion — her acting debut, which is very exciting,” she said). And now, she can be seen in Netflix’s “The White Tiger,” the film adaptation of Aravind Adiga’s debut novel, and is getting ready to shoot the Russo Brothers’ Amazon ...

Shaving doesn’t have to feel like a chore if you’ve got a quality razor. The best razors for women combine functionality and effectiveness to ensure a close shave and long-lasting results. Boasting five-blade designs, these razors are able to fully cut all traces of the hair from the surface level of the skin, ensuring successful hair removal while minimizing nicks and cuts. Geared to cater to sensitive skin regions like the underarms and bikini area, the best razors for women offer flexible rotating heads and ergonomic handles that move with the contours of your body to prevent tugging and irritation. To guarantee a silky-smooth finish, they’re also equipped with moisture ribbons and serums that combine softening and soothing ingredients to act as both a buffer and hydrator for your skin. Available in traditional models, innovative electric shavers and eco-friendly designs that can be used on your face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini area and more, keep scrolling to explore the best ra...

Not everyone has a steady hand with a nail polish brush. If you’re looking to elevate your at-home manicures, opting for the best nail stickers over traditional polishes will help you achieve salon-quality results without creating a mess. Designed for convenience and long-lasting results, these game-changing nail strips are made to stay in place with their strong, sticky adhesive, ensuring anywhere from one to two weeks of chip-proof wear. Available in sets that offer a variety of sizes and nail decals, the best nail stickers deliver the same high-gloss shine as gel manicures without requiring UV lights. Plus, they provide plenty of opportunities to get creative with their array of decorative colors, finishes and prints, which allow you to mix and match for a customizable manicure experience. For those looking to add flare to their nail polish collection, there is a wide assortment of nail art stickers available that can be applied on top of your favorite nail colors and embolden your ...

Not everyone has a steady hand with a nail polish brush. If you’re looking to elevate your at-home manicures, opting for the best nail stickers over traditional polishes will help you achieve salon-quality results without creating a mess. Designed for convenience and long-lasting results, these game-changing nail strips are made to stay in place with their strong, sticky adhesive, ensuring anywhere from one to two weeks of chip-proof wear. Available in sets that offer a variety of sizes and nail decals, the best nail stickers deliver the same high-gloss shine as gel manicures without requiring UV lights. Plus, they provide plenty of opportunities to get creative with their array of decorative colors, finishes and prints, which allow you to mix and match for a customizable manicure experience. For those looking to add flare to their nail polish collection, there is a wide assortment of nail art stickers available that can be applied on top of your favorite nail colors and embolden your ...

For those suffering from acne and blackheads, investing in one of the best ultrasonic skin scrubbers is an effective and safe way to clear, treat and prevent impurities from hindering your complexion. Acting as a deep exfoliating treatment, these innovative skin care devices emit ultrasonic soundwaves and intense high-frequency vibrations to withdraw accumulated dirt, oil and dead skin cells from the pores. They’re also designed with a spatula head, which allows for the removal of comedones and blackheads, and are rounded so you can reach tricky skin areas like around the nose. The best ultrasonic skin scrubbers also boast excellent antiaging skin care benefits. By buffing away dead skin cells, ultrasonic face spatulas are simultaneously stimulating circulation to the skin, which encourages its natural renewal process and the production of collagen. This will lead to increased firmness and elasticity in the skin, helping you achieve a tighter and more toned-looking facial contour. Remo...

Advancing your body care routine with the best stretch mark creams will not only help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but improve the overall health and tone of your skin. Formulated with ultra-hydrating emollients to deliver lasting moisture to the cells, these topical remedies repair and strengthen the skin barrier while promoting cell renewal to improve collagen and elastin production. In addition to increasing the skin’s resilience, the best stretch mark creams contain conditioning, antioxidant-rich ingredients such as vitamin E, coconut oil and rosehip seed oil to enhance the skin’s overall tone and texture, helping to reveal smoother, firmer, tighter-looking skin. Suitable for all skin types, these nourishing formulas can be used on the thighs, buttocks, breasts, hips, arms and belly for those who have recently lost or gained weight or are experiencing loss of firmness and elasticity. Since most stretch mark creams and oils are geared toward pregnant people, they also boa...

If your eyebrows have become noticeably sparser, elevating your hair care routine with one of the best eyebrow growth serums will restore their natural thickness and help you achieve fuller-looking brows. Similar to eyelash growth serums, these innovative formulas are enriched with strengthening proteins such as biotin and keratin and designed to penetrate deep into the follicle and initiate the restoration of its structure, resulting in increased thickness and strength. These powerhouse ingredients invigorate the natural growth pattern of your eyebrows, so they appear longer and more voluminous as well. The best eyebrow growth serums ensure the health of your eyebrows using a blend of hair-healthy ingredients like peptides, vitamin B5, hyaluronic acid and more, which come together to hydrate, nourish and protect the follicles using antioxidants and other conditioning minerals. When selecting an eyebrow serum, it’s important to pay close attention to the ingredients list to ensure that...

Shopping for a man who has everything isn’t an easy feat, especially on Valentine’s Day. If you’re stuck on finding the best Valentine’s Day gifts for him, we’ve got the perfect ideas that will “wow” your significant other. One thing that every man can benefit from is the gift of a good shave, which is why we’ve compiled the best grooming kits and shaving sets that will make excellent presents for your special someone. The best Valentine’s Day gifts for him are always the most thoughtful ones, so “wow” him with a romantic candle that reminds him of you or a subscription box that ignites his curious side with new products to try. If you’re shopping for a fitness buff, opting for trendy wellness gifts such as CBD lotions and balms, massage guns and meditation machines will make great men’s Valentine’s Day gifts. And, if all else fails, you can treat him to a new bottle of cologne. Below, explore the best Valentine’s Day gifts for him that your special someone will be beyond excited to op...

Need help finding the best Valentine’s Day gift for her that’s equal parts romantic and thoughtful? This year, wellness products have become highly sought-after Valentine’s Day presents for women, which allow for a relaxing self-care moment while also pampering your loved one to a restorative and rejuvenating experience. The best women’s Valentine’s Day gifts also include beauty gift sets, ranging from everything to makeup and skin care to body care and perfumes. Of course, you can never go wrong with classic gifts like festive candles. Whether you’re shopping for a girlfriend, wife, friend, mom, partner or galentine, this year, there is something for every type of Valentine. Keep scrolling to shop the best Valentine’s Day gifts for her.  Kneipp Herbal Bath Oil Gift Set Give the gift of relaxation with the Kneipp Herbal Bath Oil Gift Set, a 10-piece set comprised of the brand’s skin-softening, bath oils so your loved one can enjoy a luxurious soak this Valentine’s Day. The set incl...

The debut of Halsey’s makeup line About-Face has caused quite the stir among her fans. After much anticipation, the musician’s cosmetics collection officially launched on Monday exclusively on Aboutface.com, inviting fans and makeup lovers alike to experience her art-inspired makeup line that channels the grunge and eccentricity of the early 2000s as well as Halsey’s boundary-pushing glam. Launching with 40 units and products catering to the eye, lips and complexion categories, each available in a vibrant assortment of shades, About-Face encourages creativity and experimentation with versatile and easy-to-use formulas and universally flattering shade ranges. Keep scrolling to shop some of the newly released products from Halsey’s About-Face makeup line. About-Face Light Lock Stick One of the brand’s best-selling products, the About-Face Light Lock Stick is a crème highlight stick that creates a multidimensional shine with its intense light-reflecting pearlescent formula. Designed to gl...

The industry regularly focuses on the front-end user experience of any platform, but back-end operations are starting to modernize. After innovating the discovery element of the wholesale process, NuOrder is turning its attention to the purchasing experience. With its new Payments solution, NuOrder is expanding its offerings to encompass the entire buying journey. “We always want to build solutions for buyers across the NuOrder platform that will enhance their overall experience,” said Heath Wells, cofounder and co-chief executive officer of NuOrder. “By creating our own backend system, this allows us to keep the relationship with every buyer and retailer rather than handing them over to a partner.” The digital wholesale platform allows brands and buyers to interact, showcase and browse product and manage merchandise orders. Yet the payment process wasn’t standardized across NuOrder; some brands would use a third-party gateway service or manually process payments over the phone. These ...

Essential oils are renowned for their wellness-enhancing properties. In addition to providing potent remedies for everything from stress and anxiety to acne and skin itchiness, they’ve been found to provide relief for common seasonal allergy symptoms. Boasting anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and antispasmodic properties, the best essential oils for allergies help alleviate congestion and sinus pressure by clearing up your air passages and improving your breathing. Reducing inflammation can help relieve puffiness and itchiness in the eyes as well in those suffering from allergies. Some also feature powerful mucolytic benefits and help to loosen and break up mucus, aiding in your recovery by relieving coughing and stuffy noses. While most contain antibacterial and antifungal properties as well, it’s their aromatherapy benefits that make them so highly sought after as they can either help create feelings of calm and relaxation in those who are up all night coughing and sneezing or energi...

Regardless of your skin types, every body care routine can benefit from the addition of the best body scrubs. Designed to exfoliate away dry, flaky skin using chemical and/or physical exfoliants, these versatile body products are essential for achieving silky-smooth skin thanks to their ability to regenerate and rejuvenate the skin. By supporting the skin’s natural renewal process, body exfoliators and scrubs create a stimulating massage that increases circulation and collagen production, retexturizing the skin and enhancing its overall firmness, tone, radiance and smoothness. Using a body scrub has also been found to improve the efficacy of your favorite body lotion and skin care products by eliminating impurities and toxins from the pores. They also make an important first step in any self-tanning regimen as they prevent patchiness and streaky results by prepping the skin for a faultless application. Expertly crafted, the best body scrubs contain nourishing ingredients such as coconu...

Retail’s next chapter may reimagine relatability, according to a new report by Bazaarvoice — and that means consumers’ original content could take the lead for brand and retailer marketing. In its report, “A picture’s worth a thousand purchases,” technology firm Bazaarvoice revealed that in addition to social media, visual and user-generated content is driving online purchases, as 74 percent of consumers prefer to see previous customers’ “real” photos and videos on brand and retailer websites, in lieu of professionally shot images. Its research surveyed more than 8,000 consumers from the U.S., the U.K., Canada, France, Germany and Australia, and was conducted by Savanta in November and December of last year. Fifty-one percent of global consumers agree that social media influences purchases, while 65 percent find the availability of previous customer photos on social media and websites “essential” in their purchase decision, the report said, adding that video is also crucial for decisio...

Retail’s next chapter may reimagine relatability, according to a new report by Bazaarvoice — and that means consumers’ original content could take the lead for brand and retailer marketing. In its report, “A picture’s worth a thousand purchases,” technology firm Bazaarvoice revealed that in addition to social media, visual and user-generated content is driving online purchases, as 74 percent of consumers prefer to see previous customers’ “real” photos and videos on brand and retailer websites, in lieu of professionally shot images. Its research surveyed more than 8,000 consumers from the U.S., the U.K., Canada, France, Germany and Australia, and was conducted by Savanta in November and December of last year. Fifty-one percent of global consumers agree that social media influences purchases, while 65 percent find the availability of previous customer photos on social media and websites “essential” in their purchase decision, the report said, adding that video is also crucial for decisio...

No body care regimen is complete without the perfect body wash. If your current formula isn’t delivering the skin-nourishing results you crave or you’re looking to experiment with scents, switching to one of the best body washes will not only help improve the health and appearance of your skin, but also elevate your shower and bath experience. Boasting conditioning formulas that aim to strengthen the skin barrier, these top-rated body washes perform a deep cleanse of the skin to draw out dirt, oil and impurities without stripping it of its essential moisture, helping to lock in hydration and prevent feelings of dryness after you’ve dried off. They’re also enriched with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, rosemary and sage, which each boast anti-inflammatory and calming benefits for the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. This nurturing effect is what helps the best body washes enhance your skin’s smoothness, softness and brightness, making them effective at c...

As far as skin care ingredients go, no ingredient is more versatile than vitamin E. Renowned for its hydrating benefits and potent antioxidant composition, vitamin E can be commonly found in face and body serums, moisturizers and treatments as an added defense for the moisture barrier. For those looking for immediate hydration and nourishment, opting for one of the best vitamin E body oils for skin will not only replenish moisture but leave your skin with a velvety-smooth softness and supple glow. Designed to penetrate deeper into the skin because of its oil formulation, these body products infuse a powerful dose of vitamin E into the cells and promote instant nourishment and repair. Enveloping the skin in rich moisture, these therapeutic body oils also help show improvement in its overall tone and texture, especially when combined with conditioning humectants such as jojoba oil, coconut oil and more. Due to their high levels of antioxidants, the best vitamin E oils for skin also boast...

Topical hair growth treatments have been found to significantly improve the overall thickness and fullness of your strands. As the hair-regrowth benefits of laser light therapy continue to gain notoriety, many have recruited the help of the best laser hair-growth devices to correct the common symptoms of hair loss, including thinning hair, receding hairlines and male and female pattern baldness. Unlike their LED light counterparts, lasers have a higher energy density that allows for more intense and effective stimulation of the hair follicles. Stocked with laser-emitting diodes that are strategically placed to fully and evenly cover your scalp, the best laser hair-growth devices reactivate your hair’s natural growth pattern by promoting blood circulation and collagen production, resulting in increased hair growth and thickness. Available in a wide range of intensities and models, these innovative at-home hair-growth devices offer a customizable treatment and are designed to create a sa...

In the world of skin care, no ingredient is more versatile and sought after than salicylic acid. A potent beta-hydroxy acid, this multipurpose ingredient benefits every skin type with its refining effect on the skin, particularly for those struggling with acne and blackheads. Working as a chemical exfoliant and designed to penetrate deeper into the skin compared to its alpha-hydroxy acid counterparts, the best salicylic acid products help unclog the pores and absorb excess oil while preventing acne-causing bacteria from contributing to future breakouts. It also plays an important role in the treatment of active pimples by reducing their size and redness, expediting their time on your face tremendously. Despite its acne-fighting power, salicylic acid can be used as an effective treatment for a variety of skin concerns, including dullness, uneven tone and texture and loss of firmness and elasticity. The best salicylic acid products — whether they be a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, spot t...

In a WWD-produced webinar, Rob Keve, cofounder of Flow Commerce, and Mario Borroi, chief operating officer of International at Citizens of Humanity, joined WWD executive editor Arthur Zaczkiewicz in discussing the booming opportunity for cross-border e-commerce, attracting and converting international consumers, online, and how Citizens of Humanity has executed its growth amid the pandemic with Flow Commerce. Flow Commerce is a turnkey and modular solution that emphasizes flexibility, scalability and control. Keve told the audience, the company was founded with the intent to enable global brands and consumers to overcome challenges with foreign transactions including presenting local currencies, taxes, slow and expensive shipping, and available payment methods. “Flow created itself in the image of making this simple,” Keve said. “What if you could, very simply, manage the experience for the consumer wherever they came from in the world.” In addition to equipping brands with tools that ...

Nothing compares to the relaxing escape that comes with a bubble bath. And, bubble bath enthusiasts know that investing in the best bubble bath products can create a truly luxurious soak. Designed to deliver the perfect amount of foaminess and lather for optimal sensory delight, these bath oils infuse your water with a nourishing blend of essential oils, helping you dispel feelings of anxiety and stress thanks to their potent aromatherapy benefits. The best bubble bath products are enriched with skin-conditioning ingredients that drench your body in hydrating emollients such as coconut oil, shea butter and argan oil, which each offer softening, smoothing and tone-evening benefits in addition to quenching dryness. Making the perfect addition to any at-home spa day or self-care routine, these foaming bath oils can also be used to relieve pain and symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions. Below, explore the best bubble bath products that suit every skin type, fragrance preference and ...

Enlisting the help of the best CBD creams for pain is an efficient and safe way to improve your pain management regimen. Fortified with broad-spectrum CBD, these calming body lotions, balms and rubs are designed to penetrate into the skin and deliver temporary relief. Oftentimes combined with healing agents such as arnica, menthol and camphor, these nourishing body products boast renowned anti-inflammatory and restorative benefits as they soothe away tension, stiffness, soreness, aches and tightness with their warming and/or cooling effects on the muscles and joints. Ideal for athletes and those who suffer from chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, the best CBD creams for pain support healthy joint and muscle recovery and are available in a variety of strengths to ensure a customizable dosage for your level of pain. Some formulas are enhanced with healing essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, lavender and frankincense to alleviate pain and discomfort while also furt...

Similar to the under eyes, the lip is subject to significant collagen and moisture loss due to its delicate and vulnerable skin composition, which is why many have turned to the best lip-plumping glosses to restore their pout’s fullness and suppleness. Formulated with collagen-stimulating and skin-volumizing ingredients, these innovative beauty products apply like a typical lip gloss and impart deep nourishment and repair in addition to a silky, hydrating gloss finish. Offering temporary plumpness and volume enhancement, the best lip-plumping glosses target common skin care woes such as wrinkles, dryness, discoloration and loss of definition in the lip contour by harnessing the rejuvenating and reparative benefits of popular antiaging ingredients such as marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, ceramides, niacinamide and more. Together, these potent ingredients promote the skin’s natural regeneration process and help strengthen the skin barrier, creating healthier, smoother...

While thinning hair can be the result of various health and lifestyle factors, it can also be corrected by incorporating one of the best hair growth products into your hair care routine. Despite hundreds of formulations being available, only a select handful of these popular hair growth serums and leave-in treatments contain FDA-approved ingredients such as minoxidil, an over-the-counter medicine that has been clinically proven to reverse the signs of hair loss and hair thinning. What to Know Before Using the Best Hair Growth Products With Minoxidil Available in two topical strengths (2 and 5 percent), minoxidil stimulates regrowth in the follicles and works as an effective solution to male and female pattern balding in the scalp. For those with sensitive scalps, using minoxidil hair products may result in redness, itchiness and irritation, especially if you’re using a high dosage. Consult with your dermatologist and/or primary physician before you begin implementing minoxidil into you...

Those with acne-prone skin may see significant improvement in their complexion by incorporating essential oils into their skin-care routine. Offering a natural blemish-fighting treatment, the best essential oils for acne boast potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, allowing them to not only reduce the size and redness of active breakouts, but also successfully remove acne-causing agents from the pores to prevent future blemishes from forming. Additionally, using essential oils in skin care benefits those with oily skin thanks to their sebum-absorbing abilities, another essential acne-fighting factor. Beyond the realms of acne prevention, they also stimulate the skin’s natural regeneration process and help fade acne scars and discoloration, creating a brighter and more even complexion. What to know before using the best essential oils for acne Like with any new skin-care product or ingredient, it’s highly recommended to perform a patch test before applying your chosen es...

RichRelevance, which specializes in “experience personalization” solutions, and Manthan Software, the cloud analytics provider, have finished their merger to form a re-branded company: Algonomy. In a statement, Algonomy said its solution now “allows companies to rapidly unify all customer data in a single platform for real-time AI-based decisionmaking.” Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The company said with the new entity, retailers and brands “of all sizes can finally place ‘digital’ at the core of their business to orchestrate, personalize and activate customer journeys, designed to drive immediate engagement, lift and ROI across the lifecycle.” The merger follows a year of retailers and brands stepping up digital processes to meet new consumer demands. Algonomy chief executive officer Atul Jalan, who held the role of Manthan Software’s CEO, said as “we saw during the pandemic, our customers have seen the importance of being able to quickly pivot to become digital-first, and lev...

Whether you’re someone who prefers dreamy rose-scented candles or sultry earthy-inspired aromas, the best Valentine’s Day candles cater to every scent preference and instantly set the mood with their romantic fragrances. Taking cues from the romance holiday with fragrances that bear resemblance to traditional rose bouquets, decadent sweets and nostalgic romantic gestures, these festive candles help you get into the holiday spirit instantly as they fill your home with feelings of love and relaxation. The best Valentine’s Day candles also make a thoughtful gift for your special someone thanks to their decorative packaging, which are dressed up in pink and red vessels and adorned in hearts, lips and flowers to create a spirited and stunning piece of art that your loved one will be happy to display. Below, explore the best Valentine’s Day candles that you’ll want to burn long after Feb. 14. Homesick Love Letters Candle Channel the nostalgia of new love with Homesick’s Love Letters Candles,...

Every bath time routine can be enhanced with the best bath oils. Designed to fortify your bath water with relaxing essential oils and skin-nourishing ingredients, these calming bath products help dispel feelings of stress, tension and anxiety while boasting softening, smoothing, firming and moisturizing benefits for your skin. Catering to a variety of fragrance preferences and wellness needs with their vast formulations, the best bath oils can be used for everything from pain management and muscle recovery to detoxifying the skin and promoting sleep thanks to their expertly-curated essential oil, herbal extract and natural botanical pairings. Certain formulas can also double as body oils, allowing you to enjoy their conditioning skin benefits and aromatherapy effects long after you’ve dried off. Ahead, discover the best bath oils that each create a luxurious soak while successfully transforming your bathroom into a tranquil spa. ESPA Restorative Bath Oil Expertly crafted with sweet ora...

For those seeking natural hair dye alternatives, opting for one of the best henna hair dyes allows you to safely color treat your strands without comprising on richness or effectiveness. A centuries-old beauty staple made from pure henna powder, which is packed with nutrients and natural color pigments, they do not contain some of the chemicals and additives commonly found in traditional hair dyes such as parabens, alcohol, ammonia, peroxide, paraphenylenediamine, fragrance and more. Excluding some of these potentially irritating ingredients not only prevents damage to your tresses, but also makes for a viable solution for those with sensitive scalps. Beyond the realms of at-home hair coloring, the best henna hair dyes also boast several benefits that cater to the overall health of your strands. In addition to minimizing damage and breakage, henna has been found to have a stimulating effect on the scalp and hair follicles, resulting in increased hair growth, strength and thickness. Its...

As interest in at-home teeth-whitening kits continue to peak during the pandemic, many have recruited the smile-enhancing services of the best teeth-whitening pens to obtain a brighter smile. Created with professional-grade, dentist-trusted ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, Carbopol, glycerin, carbamide peroxide, sodium hydroxide and more, these innovative teeth-whitening products dissolve stubborn stains and discoloration from the teeth thanks to their powerful, fast-acting formulas that are designed to minimize sensitivity and keep your enamel healthy. But the real allure of teeth-whitening pens lies in their convenient design. Boasting a pocket-friendly silhouette that can be used on-the-go, the best teeth-whitening pens are built with flexible brush tip applicators, which can effortlessly deposit teeth-whitening gel evenly across every tooth and hard-to-reach crevice. This precise approach also eliminates product touching your gums, which then helps prevent damage and discomfo...

If finding the perfect Valentine’s Day present is proving to be a challenge, give your loved one the gift of self care courtesy of the best spa gift baskets. Stocked with the finest bath and body products to ensure a luxurious soak, these curated bath gift sets include everything from restorative bath soaks and fizzy bath bombs to exfoliating body scrubs and nourishing body lotions to create the perfect at-home spa day. These products are also scented using calming essential oils such as lavender so you can rejuvenate your mind using the benefits of aromatherapy. Delivering ultimate relaxation and convenience, the best spa gift baskets also include useful tools such as spa slippers, spa headbands, bath towels and loofahs so you can achieve the full spa experience. Some also come equipped with skin care treatments, foot soaks, hand creams and perfumes to cater to your body from head-to-toe. Plus, they’re all packaged in decorative baskets to create a truly special gift for that special ...

Upgrading your home candlescape with one of the best soy candles is not only a wise move for your senses, but for the environment as well. Providing an eco-friendlier experience to that of traditional paraffin wax candles, these sustainable candles are made with vegan and natural soybeans that create a healthier, higher-quality aroma to be inhaled. In addition to delivering a cleaner burn, the best soy candles also ensure that you’ll be able to get the most use out of your chosen candle. With burn times ranging from 35 to 90 hours, scented soy candles fill your home with potent, lasting fragrance, allowing you to reap their calming, relaxing and restorative aromatherapy benefits longer than paraffin wax. Whether you’re in need of the perfect gift or want to elevate your home ambiance, keep scrolling to explore the best soy candles that will please every scent preference. Lulu Candles Scented Soy Candle in Fresh Linen For those who prefer a refreshing, clean scent, Lulu Candles’ Sce...

PTC has launched the latest version of its FlexPLM platform, “V12,” which the company said will help accelerate the digital transformation efforts of retailers via a “transformative user interface” that also “unleashes visual line collaboration, 3D workflows and embedded AI.” The company said in a statement that the centerpiece of the V12 release “is a completely new user experience, with a highly modernized design that makes FlexPLM’s unmatched feature set more accessible than ever.” “Visibility and speed have been drastically improved throughout, with all-new layouts and at-a-glance access to critical information, and navigation streamlined by the addition of universal tabs and action icons,” PTC noted. “Product images and other visual elements — including 3D objects and assets — are prioritized in the new design language, and a fully responsive interface maximizes screen real estate, eliminates scrolling, and allows content to reflow to fit different devices including desktops, ...

As curbside pickup and a demand for “scan and go” and touchless transactions swelled during the pandemic — and remain prominent consumer preferences — the role of mobile devices and related technology has never been more important. Here, Christian Floerkemeier, chief technology officer, vice president of product and cofounder of Scandit, discusses these trends and how his company is helping brands and retailers succeed in the current environments. WWD: From your perspective in the market, how has COVID-19 changed shopping behavior? Christian Floerkemeier: COVID-19 meant that staying safe and avoiding contact while shopping became a priority. As a result, grocery retailers that had mobile Scan & Go in place saw a significant uptake in usage in their stores. For example, several Scandit customers witnessed increases of more than 100 percent in users and transactions with their mobile Scan & Go solution since the start of the pandemic. There was also a significant increase in cust...

Following a better-than-expected holiday shopping season driven by robust online sales, retailers and brands are trying to figure out how to keep the momentum going. Here, Nikki Baird, vice president of retail innovation at Aptos, discusses trends that emerged during the pandemic, and what brands and retailers should consider in the year ahead. WWD: How has the customer’s shopping journey changed this past year? Nikki Baird: It has been a rough ride for shoppers, between safety and health, economic uncertainty, and changing restrictions and rules to follow. Consumers went online in unprecedented numbers this past year as nonessential stores closed for lockdowns and essential retailers ran out of everything. Consumers have stayed for the convenience. They broke loyalty with longtime brands that they could no longer find and tried new retailers that offered them contactless conveniences. To say it has been disruptive would be an understatement. But there are bright spots to be found:...

After a tough year of trading, everyone in fashion and apparel is hoping for a return to sales and revenue growth in 2021. So while the recent news about the amazing progress in COVID-19 vaccines offers genuine hope that an end to the pandemic is on the horizon, we shouldn’t let this justifiable optimism cloud the fact that a recovery in brick-and-mortar retail may take time to play out. Vaccines will take many months to roll out fully. And then you have to consider how long it will take for shoppers to feel comfortable coming together in busy retail spaces again after that. Embrace change and adapt quickly So the pandemic is set to continue dominating both the business and the consumer landscape in the short term. Retailers need to be prepared for e-commerce levels to remain elevated and store footfall suppressed throughout the holidays and well into next year. In fact, it’s possible some aspects of consumer behavior may never return to the pre-COVID-19 world. Many people are now reca...

As the president of North America for Adyen, Brian Dammeir is focused on bringing the company’s global payments solution to major retail, tech, platform, and hospitality companies — including McDonald’s, Uber, Spotify, Postmates and Gap. He oversees all North American operations including sales, account management, marketing and product development. Brian previously led product strategy as Adyen’s head of product and has extensive experience working across APAC, Europe and the Americas. Dammeir honed his product mind-set with earlier stints at Airbnb and Google before joining Adyen in 2015. Here, Dammeir shares insights into consumer preferences born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, and what trends will likely remain over the next five years. WWD: How has COVID-19 changed consumer preferences? What are they looking for in regard to the overall shopping experience? Brian Dammeir: COVID-19 has shown that consumers strive to continue buying from their preferred brands even when they cannot v...

Perhaps one of the body’s most essential proteins, collagen is the building block for healthy overall skin. But as we age, our body’s natural collagen production declines, resulting in skin care woes such as fine lines and wrinkles, dullness, dryness and more. That’s where the best collagen serums come into play. Engineered to invigorate the skin’s renewal process and stimulate collagen, these innovative antiaging serums repair the structure of the skin, increasing its firmness and elasticity while restoring its natural volume, suppleness and plumpness. Formulated with collagen proteins and potent ingredients that encourage collagen production such as peptides, retinol and vitamin C, the best collagen serums show a significant reduction in fine lines and wrinkles while adding definition and tone to the facial contours. To cater to a variety of concerns, they will also be enriched with popular antiaging ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and other nutrient-rich actives to no...

Financial fitness is perhaps the most practical New Year’s resolution to make — and a new study by GigaPoints, a platform that provides personal credit card recommendations based on a user’s spending, revealed that credit card usage is evolving into a game of strategy, and for good reason. GigaPoints’s 2021 Credit Card Trends report said results from a new Ipsos poll illustrated how credit card usage is changing for Americans, with a strong emphasis on new generations of credit seekers, the pursuit of cashback, and a strategic eye for card choice. The Ipsos poll was conducted in late December with a sample of more than 1,000 U.S. adults. “The new year means new cards,” according to GigaPoints, as one in five respondents said they plan on opening a new account in 2021. And of the respondents opening new credit cards, GigaPoints said Gen Zers, at 40 percent and Millennials, at 33 percent, top the list — with males outnumbering females two to one. “Americans are signaling a year of change...

Accompanying your favorite eye cream with a sleep mask is an excellent way to combat and prevent puffiness. More than just a glamorous way to promote sleep, the best sleep masks come equipped with tension-relieving weighted and compression technology, targeting the eye area with their strategic designs and aiding in the depuffing of under-eyes. They also help you wake up looking more refreshed by eliminating friction between your skin and your pillowcase, creating a luxe buffer that prevents under-eye bags and creases. Some weighted sleep masks boast cold and warm therapy benefits for the eyes thanks to their heat-absorbing and cooling materials, which have been found to not only minimize puffiness but reduce swelling as well. Beyond the benefits of skin care, the best sleep masks also make viable solutions for common eye care conditions such as dry eye and eye strain while relieving tension to successfully alleviate headaches and migraines. Below, explore the best sleep masks that wil...

For beauty lovers, the benefits of investing in one of the best makeup organizers go beyond the realms of cosmetics storage. In addition to aiding in the organization of your complexion, contouring, eye and lip essentials, these strategically designed devices also ensure the optimal usage of your favorite products by increasing their visibility on your vanity. Not to mention, they also free up space so you can expand your collection with new products, whether they be from the worlds of makeup, skin care, hair care or nail care. Boasting aesthetically pleasing silhouettes that are both compact and sufficiently stocked with multi-compartment dividers, various tiers and tactical shelving, the best makeup organizers complement any room scheme without creating clutter thanks to their compact designs. Oftentimes made with acrylic or glass, their translucent materials make it easy to keep track of every piece in your collection. Plus, some include convenient swiveling bases and other innovati...

The best kids’ curly hair products not only enhance your child’s natural curl pattern, but infuse their delicate strands with nourishing vitamins and minerals as well. Comprised of gently cleansing, conditioning and styling ingredients, these kid-suitable formulas utilize curly hair hero ingredients such as aloe, amino acid, vitamin B5, shea butter, coconut oil and jojoba oil to sufficiently remove dirt and oil, moisturize and repair dry, damaged strands and preserve the health and integrity of their curls. Like adults, the best kids’ curly hair products help show significant improvement in the manageability of their tresses while combating frizz, tangles, breakage, dryness and other common hair care woes. But being that children are more sensitive to irritation, these formulas exclude known scalp irritants and harmful ingredients to promote healthy skin that translates to stronger, softer strands for your little one. Ensuring that your child’s hair care needs are met at every stage, t...

“Fashion-business fluent” is a sought after skill these days — and Spain-based retail merchandising solution firm Nextail speaks the language with a cadence that gets results. Nextail’s approach is to lean into the human element of retail by culling and collating algorithmic data through its industry-specific technologies. And for Nextail, that means gleaning data that allows retailers’ natural skills to “take a leading role.” Here, Joaquín Villalba, founder and chief executive officer at Nextail, talks to WWD about the story behind the brand, the power of its data and the state of the industry. WWD: Tell us about Nextail. What brought the brand into being?  Joaquín Villalba: Our industry is incredibly rich. It enjoys a great mix of art and science. However, great advances on either side haven’t always been aligned. Until now, there has been a great lack of applied data analytics in driving business decisions. Thus, fashion has inherited a significant number of operational ineffici...

“We strive to make women feel beautiful, one accessory at a time,” says Edas designer Sade Mims. ”Each piece is made to be worn alone or paired, giving you a sense of customization and contrast.” The sustainable accessories brand is known for designing feminine accessories just right for every eclectic woman. After launching her brand in 2013 starting with jewelry made by hand, she began creating her Yshaia, Maria handbags two years later. Mims has a strong interest in designing, creative directing, event planning and writing and has employed all of these skills when producing her own designs, artwork, and home accents.  Edas has just recently released a new collection in collaboration with Cameron Tea, which includes beaded bucket hats and handbags. Edas is sold in indie boutiques and major retailers like Urban Outfitters. In November of 2020, The Folklore, an online retailer known for offering brands from Africa and the African diaspora, partnered with Farfetch on a curated shop ...