13 little luxuries under $50

We all need a little something to boost our mood occasionally. Treat yourself to a mini indulgence to make your day a bit special.

Luxe Italian stationery, $45

Rediscover the art of letter writing at Il Papiro, bringing a touch of Florence to Melbourne. The tiny store specialises in exquisite stationery, and the deckled edge note card and envelope set is timeless. The 10 sheets of ivory note paper are handmade in Italy and accompanied by matching envelopes. Understated and elegant, they're a blank canvas for your creative musings.

Cashmere socks, $39

Elevate your everyday with a pair of cashmere blend socks from Paire. Made with all-natural Aussie blend merino and temperature-regulating cashmere, they'll make your feet toasty warm on the coldest days. Plus, they'll keep you cool well into in the summer, too. With thick and plush cushioning, you'll feel like you left home in your slippers. Head to the store in QV for more luxe staples and high-tech basics.

Hot chocolate rescue pack, $34

A melting-hot cup of Mörk cocoa is the essence of comfort. Take a canister of original 70 per cent dark hot chocolate and brew a cup at home. Add a pack of vanilla-bean marshmallows toasted to perfection The result of your DIY campfire hot chocolate will be sheer bliss.

Belgian chocolate mousse, $26.50

Trade that exxy dinner out for a special dessert. Decadent and befitting of Melbourne's most luxe new restaurant, Maison Bâtard's mousse au chocolat is a masterpiece. Soar up to the Parisian-inspired terrace to try this much-loved dessert. It comes with a big dollop of crème Chantilly and a shower of Belgian chocolate shards.

Mystery posy, $35

It's true – you can buy yourself flowers! Show a little self-love with a sweet posy from Pollon Flowers. The kiss bunch comes with an arrangement of one type of flower, chosen by the florist. So it's always an exciting surprise. Head in store to find a tonne more affordable bouquets. In fact, a visit to Melbourne's most Instagrammable florist is a treat in itself. Then choose a handmade glass vase ($49) from Anaca Studio to show them off.

Express manicure, $40

Duck out on your lunch break for a thirty-minute pick-me-up that will leave you smiling all week long. A basic manicure at Orchid Day Spa will only set you back $40, but you'll feel like a million bucks. The staff will file, soak and polish your nails while you relax in this tranquil city oasis. Need a little more pampering? Blow out the budget a little with a 45 minute spa manicure for $55.

Nourishing hand cream, $39

Don't forget your post-mani care. Essensorie's hand cream is richly nourishing but doesn't leave you feeling greasy. Its notes of lavender, cedarwood and zingy pink grapefruit will inspire sighs of delight every time you open the tube. While many commercial beauty products are full of chemical nasties, this hand cream is 100 per cent natural. Good for your mitts, good for the planet.

Japanese incense sticks, $29.99

One sniff of this sweet-smelling incense will whisk you away on a holiday. Studio Milligram's incense sticks come in a cute little glass tube. Light up your favourite scent stick and let the smoky aroma fill your home. While this incense is Japanese by name, the scents are all inspired by native Australian botanicals. Find them at Milligram and breathe in the smell of eucalyptus forests and salty coastal strolls.

Aromatic face water, $48

A bottle of perfume from Santa Maria Novella might break the bank. But a bottle of aromatic face water from the 800-year-old beauty apothecary is a luxe bargain. This dreamy tonic will refresh tired and stressed skin. Made with distilled waters of iris and rose, or try a bottle of the orange blossom. Dab it on your skin morning and night for a moment of bliss.

Sustainable skincare accessories, $39

Green your beauty routine with reusable angel eye patches from Foile. The eco-conscious beauty brand specialises in refillable and reusable products to reduce your waste in the bathroom. Perfect for a pamper session. Just dab on your favourite eye serum, then apply the patches under your eyes. Available at Incu, the jellies lock in hydration, awaken and de-puff your skin, while you bliss out on the couch.

Iconic Marimekko poppy mug, $37.95

To brighten up the day, start with the essentials. Like a brand-new coffee cup. For the latest contemporary homewares, see the range at Make Designed Objects. The Unikko mug features Marimekko’s signature red poppies, and can be safely used in the oven, microwave, freezer or dishwasher.

Premium dessert tea, from $13.95

Gewürzhaus' warming dessert teas are like a hug in a mug. Have a moment to yourself with the naturally sweet and caffeine-free quiet time tea. Dried fruit and spices like apple and cinnamon instantly conjure childhood memories. Infuse for five minutes, then enjoy. If the troubles of your day are creeping into your night-time routine, try the calming sleepy slumber tea. This caffeine-free rooibos tea will have you nodding off in no time.

Kinto tea mug, $34.95

Need something to brew your new dessert tea in? Head to Tempted in Kensington for a luxe glass mug by Kinto. Designed in Japan, the 'unitea unimug' has a built-in strainer in warm red or yellow hues. The perfect addition to your morning ritual, it eliminates the need for a teapot making teatime a breeze. Just remove the strainer and sip away.