This is one of my favorite posts to write each year. While experiences weren’t as plentiful in 2020, I made up for it in purchasing products! Here are my favorites products for home, beauty and clothing/accessories that brought me joy or made my life easier in 2020.
Best of 2020 – Home
A ChappyWrap blanket was on my wish list for over a year when I finally received it as a birthday gift. I’ve used it every night since. It is warm and soft and lovely.
Ally Sheppard Artwork, Varies
For a big achievement at work this year, I gifted Jim a piece of artwork for our house. We were in the midst of buying our house and once we discovered the name of the painting was the same as the street of our house, it seemed like it was meant to be.
It sounds dramatic, but I look forward to my lunchtime iced tea every single day. I discovered Harney & Sons this spring at the start of quarantine when I needed little luxuries to look forward to. My favorites are the peach, green coconut, vanilla and the holiday tea.
Since we bought our house in June, we’ve done a lot to update the lighting and other hardware. We (well, Jim) installed this sconce on the stairs and it’s become my favorite light to turn on at the end of the day. I didn’t even notice this piece before we replaced it. We added a piece of Ally Sheppard art underneath it and now it’s perfect.
I can’t remember who or what convinced me to buy The Defined Dish cookbook, but it’s been well worth the price. Most of the dinners I make follow Whole30 and at least one a week comes from this cookbook. I’ve gifted it four times this year! Our household favorites are the chicken parmesan, muffuletta salad and jalapeño dressing.
For Lawson and Sybil’s first day of December gift package, I included a personalized hot chocolate mug that I found on Etsy. They’ve been a huge hit! Half the fun of going outside in the snow and cold is warming up with a cup of hot chocolate afterwards.
Best of 2020 – Beauty
ghd Curling Iron, $199
This curling iron heats up in less than 10 seconds and gives the best curls. In the mad dash of the morning rush, every minute saved is helpful. I can curl my entire head of hair in less than 3 minutes.
I got my first facial in six years at the end of October. The aesthetician recommended I add a toner to my routine. My face has felt so soft ever since.
I started using Glow Screen this summer and immediately ordered a backup. It adds a slight sheen and I feel like I have a real life instagram filter.
Best of 2020 – Clothing & Accessories
Veja V10 Sneakers, $150
I call these my “fashion” sneakers. For being so simple, they add style to any outfit.
Madewell Skinny Jeans, Varies
This year I bought 3 pairs of jeans from Madewell that I absolutely love: 9″ skinny jeans in Black Sea ($128), 10″ skinny crop jeans in white, and 10″ dark wash skinny jeans (on sale for $45, limited sizes left). I’ve always found their denim to be hit or miss…I’ve found the key is filtering by stretch. I prefer the stretch/extra comfy fit, which has been a game changer for finding comfortable, flattering and reasonably priced jeans (they are always on sale!).
Is there anything more symbolic of 2020 than a set of face masks on the best products list? I have the summer version in addition to this wintery trio. They fit my smaller face and are comfortable enough to wear for hours.
I’ve written about these joggers several times this year. I bought my first pair this summer, immediately ordered another pair and have gifted them four times in the past six months. If that isn’t a ringing endorsement, I don’t know what is. They are versatile – cute enough to wear out of the house and comfortable enough for a lighter workout or as pajama pants.