It seems there is a secret organization running the universe that has decided that certain things just have to be ugly. Some time ago, for example, all music-playing equipment had to be silvery and plasticky and rounded and ugly as hell. For several decades now, ugliness has been the norm for the majority of cars. But it’s most often the case with small, practical stuff. Toothbrushes for example – have you ever seen a nice one? Or have you noticed how many books, in fact, are ugly? Even a lot of make-up and skincare comes in packaging that doesn’t seem to be more than an afterthought (I’m looking at you, deodorants!).

Of course, matches or toothpaste do not have to beautiful, they are, indeed, functional objects. But if you are going to make something anyway, I personally would think that it’s better to make something pretty rather than ugly. No? I have come to really appreciate good design in small things and I have rounded up some of my favourites. Of course, they still have to get their job done, being pretty is not enough.

– Marvis toothbrush. This is the most elegant toothbrush I have seen and although the competition isn’t heavy, I find it pretty perfect. Sometimes I wish they did other colours, but… Well, let’s not be too needy.
– Verso Super Facial Serum sample. I love samples – skincare, perfume, make-up, the lot. But if you’ve ever tried to rip open a tiny packet of cream only to end up with cream-covered sink and walls, you’ll appreciate the elegant solution by Verso: you fold the thing in half and the serum is dispensed neatly for you to use.
– Ginsberg is God candle by Bella Freud. Good design doesn’t mean that all lines have to be straight. This candle also has the most potent throw I’ve ever encountered, so clearly beauty and strength can coexist.
– Senteurs d’Ailleurs matches. One of course needs suitable matches for lighting that Bella Freud candle and these are the most beautiful matches in the world. Available only in the SdA boutique in Brussels – I probably need to stock up when I leave.
– Nails inc nail polish remover. Now, this type of nail polish remover was in fact (as far as I know) first introduced by Bourjois and it’s a genius idea. Unfortunately, Bourjois insists on selling theirs in horrid pink and purple pots. So I am now buying the Nails inc version. It does work a bit better, but that’s not the reason I buy it.
– Penguin Little Black Classics. Small and perfectly formed, this is what these books are. They also work as books.
– Byredo 1996 sample. I am a huge fan of Byredo’s aesthetic, but most of their stuff doesn’t really qualify as small and practical. But this sample packaging proves that you don’t need to spend huge amounts to make something look good. It also keeps the sample secure, as opposed to many other solutions.
– Chanel powder. Well, I had to include something by Chanel, because – this is how it’s done.

And no, good design doesn’t have to come in black and white. But sometimes it helps.