Melissa Knapp, Clinique Global Creative Director, is one of those people who functions at warp-speed with amazing taste, an infectious laugh, and a brilliantly creative mind. Lucky for us, she has a knack for scouting great design. Here, she shares some of her coolest finds.

Melissa’s favorite mom-friendly picks are proof that essentials can also be pretty great. Her book recommendation (below) is written by her friend Juman Malouf—and if Juman’s illustrations look familiar, we’ll give you a hint: Grand Budapest Hotel. We captured Juman with Melissa and her son Ben at the SeaGlass Carousel in downtown New York City. Leave it to our Creative Director to find your above-average merry-go-round. Read on for more of Melissa’s favorites.

An enchanting children’s book (that you’ll love too).
The Trilogy of Two by Juman Malouf
“I love snuggling up with Ben and a good book. This one’s a magical adventure and I’m obsessed with the illustrations. I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Juman.”

Matching Turkish robes, because everything’s cuter in miniature.
Home & Loft Turkish Cotton Robes
“A friend of mine gave these to me and they’re my favorite for summer. We all have good laugh when Ben and I dress like twins in them. We’re drawing the line at getting one for my husband.”

A genius baby swaddle made of NASA inspired fabric.
The Little Lotus Sleeping Bag in Signature ‘Touch Our Future’ print
“I learned about these high-tech swaddles and sleeping bags when we worked with Jane Chen on our Smart Ideas campaign, and I wish it had been around when Ben was born. Now it’s my go-to gift for newborns. Its special fabric keeps babies comfortable regardless of the temperature. And each purchase sends a life-saving infant warmer to at-risk babies around the world.”

A unisex kid-gear bag (a.k.a. easy to hand off).
Filson Medium Bucket Tote in Otter Green
“Love these versatile bags that anyone can pull off. I keep a couple in rotation.”

A grown-ups only getaway.
Rockhouse Hotel, Jamaica
“My husband and I discovered this perfect, long-weekend-spot a few years ago and have returned every winter since. They don’t allow kids under 12 so we’ve got 6 more years before Ben can try to invite himself on our vacation.”

Kid furniture that looks great too.
Dwell Studio Primary Natural Table & Stool Set
“Reminiscent of Alvar Aalto’s design, this indestructible play table doubles as ‘the kids table’ when we have a few families over for dinner.”

Workout (or not) gear.
Outdoor Voices Racerback Tank in Navy and Two-Tone Warmup Legging in Navy & Charcoal.
“I know it’s cliché but like a lot of moms, I spend time in my workout gear–not working out. I’m a huge fan of Outdoor Voices because of their more versatile styles. We spend a lot of time outdoors, so Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen for Face and Body are a must.”

A glass water bottle with serious style.
bkr 500ML water bottle in Ivy
“I try to stay away from plastic containers and these indestructible glass water bottles are the coolest ones I’ve found. Plus, they never leak.”

Foolproof 2-minute makeup.

"It's ironic that I work at a beauty company and feel like I never have time to put any makeup on! But that's actually very Clinique. We don't think beauty routines need to be complicated. My simple routine that makes me look polished—but gets me out the door fast—is a defined brow with a glossy nude lip. And a lightweight, daily, sunscreen is a year round essential. A few of my favorites: Clinique Pop Lacquer Lip Colour + Primer in Nude Pop and Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 40.”

Photos: Kathryn Barnard | Words: Alix Light Perez | Hair & Makeup: Jillian Halouska