As we close out the year, let us reflect. Not on our successes or our failures, but on our purchases. Because whether your year ends on a joyous note or a somber one, the leggings that you love and the serum you use every day was still worth it.
I technically bought these Vuori Daily Leggings in 2019, but I rediscovered them this year. Post-pregnancy, anything that pinched or bound my abdomen was a no go. One day, after putting on and taking off three pairs of uncomfortable leggings, I found these. They were so soft and comfortable and easy to wear. . . I bought two more pair the next day.
I’m not as young as I was when I started this blog almost 15 years ago. Neither is my skin. And as the fine lines of my forties begin to pop up around my eyes, these Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Masks smooth, de-puff, and lighten dark circles. I like them so much that I have them on Auto-Replenish, which also saves me 5%.
If you’re in the market for a great pair of pants for the office that are both comfortable and professional, these Ann Taylor Side Zip pants are them, Full stop. I wore out the seam in a pair and bought another pair the next day. Couldn’t dress for work without them.
Pregnant or not, this Ingrid & Isabel Tee is the greatest t-shirt I have ever owned. I bought the medium when I was pregnant, and thanks to the stretchiness, I am still wearing it post-partum. The cotton is thick, in a way that didn’t used to be uncommon, and it’s not even the slightest bit sheer. Also in black. Some styles are on sale at Amazon.
Tube mascara basically changed my life. For years, I’ve had raccoon eyes by 4:00PM. Nothing fixed it. Until this Caliray Come Hell or High Water mascara came along. No more raccoon eyes, a good, but not thrilling, amount of volume and length.
Period underwear were a must-have during pregnancy and after. Most are thick and uncomfortable. The Proof Period Underwear are lighter, more wearable, easier to wash, and the scalloped trim keeps the VPL to a minimum. They’re a must have as a primary or a back-up option. Or if you’re pregnant or doing IVF, your new daily underwear.
This O’Bright Portable Light is a game changer. I keep two in Sloane’s room to use for late night feeds and changes. I also bought one to use as a flashlight for walking through the dark hallways, and I’ll probably buy a second to use for patio dinners this summer. It gives a lovely soft light. The charge lasts 48-hours. And it comes in several colors to match any decor.
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Do you think you’d do a ‘best buys of the past 5 years’ or something? I’m looking for a couple investment pieces (coat, suitcase, leather boots) and would love to know what’s had staying power for Belle
I cracked up at your first sentence, lol. Thanks for always being my “go-to” for recommendations! The hard work you put into creating content and your honesty are both recognized and appreciated. Best wishes for a wonderful 2023.
Agreed! Yours is the only one I always read without fail every week. Thanks again! And hope you had a wonderful holiday season. All the best for 2023!
The mascara is also my favorite! Doesn’t give me raccoon eyes, lifts my lashes, and is so good on my very sparse blond bottom lashes. I get the mini size and replace every 6 months. Sooooo good.