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If anything in my life is a cry for help, it’s always been my underwear drawer. Let’s just say that
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About once a week, I grab a snack, my favorite throw blanket, and my computer opened directly to Sephora, as
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2020 was a disappointing year for a multitude of reasons but, for me, the cherry on top was blindly hopping into the passenger seat of my sister’s car and absolutely crushing my designer sunglasses. As I picked up the pieces and stared back at my distorted reflection in the shattered lens, I (once again) muttered to myself, “This is why we can’t have nice things.” After that rather humbling experience and a quick evaluation of my current financial status, I decided that searching for dupes and affordable items that look expensive would be my new vocation.I dismally hopped on Amazon to find a replacement, perked up at the surprisingly chic selection, and added a pair to my cart that seemed on-trend, sturdy, and well-rated. And, my friends, let me tell you: I get more compliments on my $12.99 Amazon sunglasses than I ever did on my costly designer pair. There’s nothing more satisfying or flattering than getting recognition for items that you scored on a budget and, for that reason, I’ll be snatching up all of these inexpensive Amazon fashion finds that look pricey AF. More
When it comes to my wardrobe, I tend to lean toward buying items that are well-made and that will last versus taking frequent trips to the mall for items I don’t want to wear in six months. I’ve been a fashion consumer ever since age 9, when I demanded that I get the neon bikini that stole my heart at Kohl’s department store. Since then, I have gone on many shopping journeys at all price points, and I am here to share some of my wisdom with those that might not feel like natural-born shoppers. Let me help you spend in the right places and save where you can. Hopefully my years of buyer’s remorse will assist you in your next big investment.
1. Handbags
I bought my first designer handbag at 26, and I’ve gotten a new one every year or so. That is a luxury, I realize, and one that I work hard for. Handbags (saying purse is reserved for the 85+ crowd) can make an outfit. They can Cinderella you from a plain Jane look to an iconic classic style. I’ve found that designer brands retain their value, especially if you keep them in good condition. I haven’t been the person to get the ‘safe’ black bag, and instead gravitate toward colors that make me happy.
The key is making sure to take care of them, especially if reselling is an option you’re thinking about. I save reselling for trendy bags (like my Gucci belt bag) to wear for a season then sell before the trend loses steam on a site like The Real Real. But something like my patent blue Chanel bag that you would think would get old, I still wear all the time and keep in good condition. If you’re looking to get a designer handbag of your own, getting them second-hand at a vintage store or online via the Real Real is a great start. If you want to keep your bag in good condition, I recommend storing it in its dust pouch. Saving the tags and the box are also bonus points for reselling!
2. Jewelry
High-quality jewelry also retains its resale value! In my experience, I’ve been able to sell old jewels for 60 percent the original value I paid for it. My Cartier wedding band from my first marriage? SOLD IT! With inscription for most of the original cost. My Tiffany necklace I got for graduation? Same thing. I find that “fine” jewelry, no matter who the designer, will retain value over the years, and you can even rework it to fit your changing life. I took my diamond earrings I got when I was 25 and added them to a ring. I have sold gold necklaces that I got for special moments and then taken that cash and bought something I love. It’s tempting to spend your money on trendy jewelry you’ll wear a few times then get sick of, but I’m telling you, saving that extra money to get something you wear all the time is worth it!
3. A good blazer
If you are looking for a basic that will last for life, you will get a lot of mileage out of a high-quality black blazer (I recommend this Henning blazer!). When you compare blazers, pay attention to fit and cut. I’ve found cheap, fast-fashion blazers are made with low-quality fabrics that lay weird, and wear poorly over time. A nice blazer that is durable and fits great will last a lifetime!
4. Outerwear
I love a classic coat, and I feel like outerwear is definitely worth an investment. A cheap coat will pill, get worn out quickly, and doesn’t always have a great cut. You can never go wrong with a long coat in a color that goes with everything (like camel or black) so why not get one that will last a lifetime?
5. A bra
Many people wear a bra every single day of their life. If you’re spending $12 on a bra, chances are you have to replace it a few times a year. Save yourself that anguish and put in some extra money up front on a bra that won’t fall apart after a few months of wear, and will most likely make a difference in your daily comfort.
6. A dermatologist
Alright hear me out: you can spend hundreds of dollars trying to figure out what skincare works for you, but if you take the time to see a dermatologist (use your insurance!) and get skincare advice from an expert on what your skin needs, avoiding the trial-and-error period and getting right into the products that work for you. Also, you should be seeing one every year to get skin cancer checks anyway. I started getting Botox injections in my face at age 28, as often as I could afford (which was sometimes once a year) but I have found that it has been a long-term program I am happy with. Going to a good derm doesn’t necessarily mean needles, but it might be a prescription retinol that can make a real difference.
7. Furniture
Last but not least: Invest in a real couch. I’ve gone through so many cheap couches in my day, and they do not hold up—and it’s such a big item to waste! A good couch can last you decades (and become a family heirloom in the process) so don’t be afraid to invest. You can also buy a name-brand couch used for a fraction of the retail price. Just focus on finding a style you love that you can recover throughout the years so it can change as your style does.
1. Cashmere
You don’t have to splurge on cashmere! I’ve found that regardless of where I get cashmere, it ages the same way. There’s no need to go all out on it, I love J.Crew for ‘affordable’ cashmere.
2. Wallets
Investing in a designer wallet is a no from me! Even though a wallet is the lowest price point for designer items, nobody really sees your wallet, and it always gets dirty. I say just bank the cash you’d use to buy the wallet and put it toward a nice bag.
3. Shoes
Shoes get dirty and will inevitably show their wear over time, which is why I’m against spending major money on shoes. Even if you really love them and you want to wear the crap out of them, there are so many mid-range priced shoes that are great quality. I think in this case, it’s better get a pair of $200 boots (rather than a $50 pair you’ll have to replace every year after they fall apart) knowing you’ll take them to the cobbler in six or so years, rather than getting $900+ boots and having to do the same thing.
4. Jeans
There have been so many innovations in denim and I really think that mass brands can make a pretty good-looking jean—no need to splurge! To extend the life of your jeans, make sure to wash them inside out and don’t put them in the dryer. Some of my favorite jeans are from Good American, Universal Standard, Madewell, and Old Navy.
5. Mascara
I’ve tried them all. All of them. And truly, they are basically the same at every price point. Yes, some are better than others, but I have found the drug store brands carry ones that are just as good as that $68 designer mascara. One of my favorites is Covergirl Lash Blast mascara.
6. Designer swimsuits
A designer suit can make you feel fancy, but the truth is that most of them are not made for exposure to salt, chlorine, or sunscreen. (Really, it’s on the label!) Pretty rough to have fun in the sun when you can’t really participate in any of the fun. I think there are plenty of chic swimsuit brands that have a designer vibe without the price tag or fussiness. J.Crew, Swimsuits for All, Lands End, and Madewell all offer great selections, without breaking the bank. More
There are certain resolutions that shoot to the top of the list every year—remember to floss, hit the gym more… you know the ones. For me, finding the perfect skincare routine is always top of mind, but especially when a new year begins. My skin deserves a fresh start too! In case you’re also considering shaking up your beauty stash this year, I dug up six skincare ingredients that you are going to hear about non-stop this year. That way, you know exactly what’s what on your next Sephora run.
1. Microbiome ingredients
Because so many brands are doing their best to incorporate organic and wild ingredients into their formulas, you’re going to see a lot of ingredients from plants that have a rich ethnobotanical history. While the overarching term being used is “microbiome,” these products are often made up of prebiotic and probiotic ingredients. Other ingredients fit the microbiome bill, such as squalene, which has antioxidant-rich properties and is known to promote oxygenation and cell regeneration. Basically, these types of ingredients utilize plant-based bacteria (AKA the good kind) to give you brighter and smoother skin. Prepare to see any wrinkles decrease too!
Products to watch:
2. Frankincense and myrrh
It’s time to kick it old school with these ingredients that are getting a lot of buzz in the skincare world. Myrrh helps treat spots from acne and damaged skin, while frankincense can also help fade acne scars and can fight against premature aging. Basically, if you’re looking for gentle help achieving an even skin tone and a major glow, you may want to check these out.
Products to watch:
3. Elderberry and elderflower
Two more plant-based ingredients you’ll see around a lot in the near future are elderberry and elderflower. While you may be used to finding these ingredients in your favorite craft cocktail, they can also help soften skin, as well as treat acne, blemishes, rashes, and sunburns. Because both elderflower and elderberry are naturally anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants, they excel at protecting against premature aging and free radical damage. They also contain antifungal compounds that help keep the skin healthy and clear.
Products to watch:
4. Niacinamide
I kept hearing the ingredient niacinamide being thrown around in the beauty world, and I’m not going to lie, I had no idea what that meant. Luckily, I did some digging and found out this mystery ingredient is a major crowd-pleaser. What doesn’t this miracle ingredient do? Niacinamide works to reduce inflammation which in turn can help soothe eczema, acne, and similar inflammatory skin conditions. You’ll also get pore minimizing, skin smoothing, and moisturizing benefits while you’re at it. What a deal. Expect to see this in dozens of product formulations this year.
Products to watch:
5. Bakuchoil oil & bakuchi seed oil
I love retinol, there’s no denying that. It works well for my skin, but for those who have skin that is on the more sensitive side, it can be a bit rough. This is where bakuchoil oil comes in. This natural alternative to retinol (which has benefits like increased collagen production, skin-cell turnover, unclogged pores, minimized fine lines, even skin tone, and less acne) comes from the naturally-occurring antioxidant found in the leaves and seeds of the babchi herb.
Here’s where it gets good: scientific studies have shown that bakuchiol functions the same way retinol does. While bakuchoil oil gets the majority of the attention, you may see some skincare brands utilizing the extract from the bakuchiol seed known as bakuchi seed oil.
Products to watch:
6. Oat milk
Those with a sensitive stomach may have already turned to oat milk in their lattes, and those with sensitive skin will surely appreciate the soothing and gentle skincare benefits that oat milk can offer. This powerful antioxidant and humectant is an ideal addition to face cleansers, as well as moisturizing serums and creams. We’ll take a glass of oat milk and some new skincare products, please!
Products to watch:
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