If you’re like us, you’ve probably wondered what famous people add to their carts. Not the JAR brooch and Louis XV chair but the hair spray and the electric toothbrush. We asked model Yumi Nu about the face mask, lip balm, and coffee cup she can’t live without.
I naturally have very beige-colored lips, so I love having color on them, even if I’m not wearing makeup or anything. My lips also get very dry. I’ve always loved Burt’s Bees because it is a very clean, healthy beauty brand. I first tried this Rose shade randomly when I was looking for a new tinted lip balm. Now I’ll buy five or six at a time — I keep them in my home, purse, car, everywhere, because I always lose some. I’ve put a lot of makeup artists on to this too. They always ask me about my lip color and are impressed when they find out.
I’ve always wanted to get into tea because it sounds better for you, but I love coffee and oat-milk lattes too much. I was going out for lattes every day, but that gets superexpensive, so I started making them myself — I bought syrup and a milk frother. I always drink my lattes from this cup. A lot of reusable to-go cups are kind of boring and basic. Someone had this one on a set. It is so aesthetically pleasing. It looks a little like it could be from the MoMA store. So I asked them where they got it and then bought one. It’s made from recycled coffee husks and has been a very satisfying purchase. I prefer the 12-ounce size because it leaves enough room so drinks don’t spill while still being compact enough for the car or going to set.
A friend posted about these masks on Instagram a couple years ago, and I thought they looked really cool. I honestly bought one for the aesthetic at first, but it turned out to be the most incredible mask treatment, and I use them after I wear a lot of makeup or when my skin needs a little refresh. If I’m working a lot, I’ll do a mask maybe once a week. Otherwise, I’ll do it every other week. They’re more expensive, so I use them more sparingly than other things. But I always have some in my bathroom. As soon as I take one off, I see a huge difference. I like to take it off in front of a mirror, because it gives this instant glow and dewy effect. The masks are cooling already, but they’re even more amazing if you put them in the fridge before use.
My mom actually put me on to this. My sister got one too — it’s become a family favorite. I take walks around my neighborhood and then come home and do 20 minutes of balance and beginner’s yoga on the mat. I’m not doing anything too crazy, but I have hardwood floors and flat feet. The mat is plusher, so I thought it would be better for my knees and feet. It also has more than 30,000 reviews, and most are five stars. That definitely has an impact on my decision when it comes to buying something.
A nail artist first used this on me while I was on set eight or so months ago. It was the best manicure I’ve ever had. I immediately bought some to use at home, and it quickly became my favorite nail product of all time. Whenever I see a nail artist pull it out now, I get so excited. Deborah Lippmann was actually the nail artist on the Jason Wu show I did in February. I didn’t know that at first, though, so when her team was doing my nails, they pulled this out, and I was like, “Oh my God, I love Deborah Lippmann and her cuticle stuff. I use it on myself all the time.” Deborah was in the room with me, and I didn’t know! I felt so stupid, but at least now she knows I genuinely love this product and I wasn’t just trying to impress her.
I keep this on my key chain so it is with me at all times. I bought some for my parents and sister, too, because we all lose our keys and phones. You connect the little square thing to an app on your phone and can press a button in the app that says “Find keys,” then the actual tile plays a song and you follow the sound. If I have my keys but can’t find my phone, I can click a button on the square tile and it will call my phone.
I started off as a Tank Air customer, but over time I’ve become good friends with the founder. I love her stuff. I probably own five or six pieces. All of her clothing is made out of deadstock materials or leftover fabrics from other brands. I like the sustainable aspect, but I love how sleek and basic and modern all the clothes are. I live in this tank top. I’ll wear it with neutral-colored sweatpants — it just looks expensive no matter what I pair it with. The neoprene material really sucks you in and lifts everything naturally, so I don’t even need to wear a bra underneath.
Back in 2019, I was working for a makeup client, and it really started to take a toll on my skin. I went to Sephora to get some higher-end skin care, and the employees recommended this oil. I now use it any time I get acne flare-ups. It always works. I don’t use it every day, just when I’m working a lot or need to give my skin a little extra love. If I’m breaking out, I see such a big difference when I incorporate it into my routine.
I found this brand when I was looking for big silver jewelry a while back. The founder is an Asian designer based in San Francisco. I wish more people knew about her because she’s amazing. She makes everything herself — the quality is unmatched — and is a really beautiful person. My boyfriend has given me her pieces for birthdays before, too. In addition to this Twin ring, I own the brand’s Sadie ring, Hana ring, Smiley Flower necklace, and so much more — I’d have to look at my full collection to tell you everything. Any time you see me wearing silver jewelry, it’s Aeri Go.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.