As the founder of Embrace—a thoughtfully designed womenswear and maternity brand focused on everyday essentials made from natural, plant-based fabrics—Claire Mercieca knows a thing or two about quality, comfort, and cutting through the noise. A lawyer in what she calls her “past life,” Claire now pours her energy into creating the kind of wardrobe staples she actually wants to wear (read: flattering, functional, and breastfeeding-friendly).

When she’s not growing her business, Claire is deep in the juggle of life with two energetic boys—Luc (5) and Benoît (2.5)—sneaking in a yoga session or run when she can, and always on the lookout for products that simplify her day or spark a little joy. Her Mother Essentials list is a reflection of that practical-meets-intentional philosophy, filled with skincare staples, kid gear that earns its keep, her new Lounge Bra (designed for postpartum boobs), and a few chic luxuries that help her feel human—even on the most chaotic days.

Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen. “My mom has always been devoted to sunscreen, and she has instilled the same discipline in me. I started wearing sunscreen daily at 18, and while I can’t say for sure how much of a difference it’s made, I’m not about to risk finding out. This mineral, fragrance-free sunscreen from Supergoop! is the one I keep coming back to. I’ve tested countless brands, but this is the only one that’s kept dark spots at bay.” Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $40, Supergoop.

Nécessaire Multi-Peptide Body Lotion. “I’ve never been great about moisturizing, but this lotion changed that. It’s fragrance-free, eczema-friendly, and somehow feels downright luxurious every time I use it. Now it’s a nightly ritual I look forward to, and even my mother-in-law has given it her stamp of approval.” Multi-Peptide Body Lotion, $52, Nécessaire.

Medik8 Vitamin C Serum. “I’ve been on the hunt for something to zap the dullness from my skin—and this little bottle did just that. It’s lightweight, gentle, and still feels like a treat to use.” C-Tetra Vitamin C Radiance Serum, $49, Medik8.

SK-II Facial Mask. “Last one on skincare, I promise. Facial masks are a staple in Asian culture, and this one truly delivers. The glow is instant (I’m not exaggerating), and it’s hands-down the best mask I’ve ever tried—and I’ve tried plenty.” Pitera Facial Treatment Mask, $25.50, SK-II.

James Perse Linen Shorts. “I haven’t worn any other shorts this past summer.” Lightweight Linen Pleated Short, $195, James Perse.

Still Here Cool Jeans. “These feel like pajamas…but somehow still look like you made an effort. I receive compliments every single time I wear them.” Cool Jeans, $285, Still Here.

Want Les Essentials Tote Bag. “Can we talk about how hard it is to find a truly beautiful leather tote? This one nails it—minimalistic, lightweight, and roomy enough for real life.” Logan Tote, $695, Want Les Essentiels.

Embrace Ribbed Bra Top. “I may be biased, but I believe we made the perfect camisole with a built-in bra (because, let’s face it, no one likes wearing a strapless bra). This is now my most-worn piece. I wear it for everything—from yoga to brunch.” Ribbed Bra Top, $70, Embrace.

Embrace Lounge Bra. “We made a bra that *finally* understands postpartum boobs. Trust me when I say you won’t find a more comfortable bra than this.” The Lounge Bra, $60, Embrace.

Yohola Cork Yoga Mat. “This mat’s soft enough for savasana, grippy enough for hot yoga. Plus, it’s made with plant-based foam by a small business I love to support.” Original Cork Yoga Mat, $139, Yolohayoga.

Asics Gel-Kayano 32 Shoes. “I’ve been running since high school, and I’m convinced Asics makes the best running shoes. Pro tip: leave a thumb’s width (roughly half an inch) of space when you size up—your feet will thank you at mile ten.” Gel-Kayano 32 Sneakers, $165, Asics.

Babygold Multi-Initial Necklace. “I never thought I would wear an initial anything, but this initial necklace is pretty and dainty without veering cheesy. I have my husband’s and kids’ initials on them, and it works with every outfit.” 14K Gold Asymmetrical Multi-Initial Necklace, $235, Babygold.

Hanna Andersson French Terry Sweatpants & PJs. “I bought these for my firstborn, and three years later my second is wearing the exact same pieces. They really are Hanna-me-down quality. I especially love the oversized fit and thick organic cotton quality.” French Terry Sweatpants, $16, Hanna Andersson.

Parade Tank Romper. “Soft organic cotton, simple, well-priced, and so cute. We own four, and they’re on constant repeat. I’m keeping my boys in rompers for as long as I can get away with it.” Organic Tank Romper, $19, Parade.

Veer All-Terrain Cruiser. “When we were expecting our second, we debated between a double stroller and a wagon. I’m so glad we went with this wagon. It’s basically our family SUV. We use it every weekend, and the boys ride, snack, and chat while we haul them around. Plus, it handles any terrain (snow, sand, grass) we throw at it.” Veer All-Terrain Cruiser, $699, Crate + Kids.

LunchBots Stainless Steel Bento. “Finding a kid-proof, 100% stainless steel lunchbox is harder than it should be. We pack our son’s school lunch in this. He mostly refuses the food but never breaks the box. We take that as a win.” LunchBots Stainless Steal Bento Box, $24.95, Amazon.

Greens Steel Cups. “After the third broken glass (we love our shatter-resistant glasses from Fable but they did not survive our children), we swapped the kids’ cups for these. So far, so good.” Stainless Steel Cups (4-Pack), $25, Amazon.

Magna-Tiles. “The only toy that’s lasted years of play and is still going strong in our playroom today.” Magna-Tiles Classic 100 Piece Set, $119.99, Amazon.

Anthropologie Glass Tumbler. “I swear water tastes better from a cute glass. When I’m working I tend to forget to hydrate—this one makes it easier to remember.” Juice Glass Tumbler with Lid, $22, Anthropologie.

For more MOTHER ESSENTIALS, peep our recent features with Hello!Lucky’s sister duo, doula and author Latham Thomas, Carla Wingett of Idlewild Floral, on Andrea Faulkner Williams of Tubby Todd, Hana Getachew of Bole Road Textiles, artist & author Carissa Potter Carlson, actress & activist Hilary Swank, the co-founders of Hearth Display, author and organizer Aida Mariam Davis, design consultant Joyce Lee, self-care advocate Rachel Garahan, DJ Va$htie Kola, designer Rebecca Minkoff, VEERT founder Julia Lang, cookbook author Jenné Claiborne, Neha Ruch of Mother Untitled, model, writer, and activist Cameron Russell, author Nasozi Kakembo, kid-lit talent Bo Lu, artist Suzy Ultman, and Super Smalls founder Maria Duenas Jacob.