If you are a fan of the illustrious Oprah Winfrey, then you’re likely familiar with her annual “Favorite Things” list, which is part product recommendation, part gift guide, and always 100% worth perusing. I love going through Oprah’s Favorite Things every year, both because I often find helpful recommendations there, but also just because I’m curious about what’s going to be on it!
So this year, I thought it would be fun to share a similar list, but I thought I’d tweak it by sharing what I consider the best things that I actually bought and used in 2021. (No shot at Oprah, but I’m sure she gets all sorts of stuff for free because she’s, you know, Oprah, so I just wanted to specify that I did not receive any of these things for free.)
My list of the best things I bought last year ended up including 11 items spanning home decor, travel essentials, and everything in between. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
The 11 Best Things I Bought In 2021
Fashion And Beauty
1. Knit Ruffle Ankle Socks
If you’re like me and wear a lot of ankle boots in the winter, then you should check out these ankle socks. They are the perfect length and weight (meaning not too thick or too thin). And I love the lettuce edge too, which unbeknownst to me is apparently back in style!
2. Low Block Heel Dress Shoes
There is nothing extraordinary about these shoes, except for the fact that ever since I bought them I’ve been wearing them all the time. The color and style just seem to go with everything, and the fact they are comfortable and easy to walk in is the cherry on top! (Another bonus? They come in a lot of colors too!)
3. Floral Elastic Waist Maxi Skirts
I love this skirt so much that I got it in 3 different patterns and wore them all week long during our vacation to Hawaii this past summer. They pair as well with a t-shirt as they do with blouses so you can easily dress them up or down as needed.
4. TANGLE TEEZER The Ultimate Hairbrush
I was looking at some hair products online and came across this brush with rave reviews, and it turned out to be the brush I never knew I needed! If you’re looking for a brush that’s gentle with detangling and will leave your hair smooth and shiny, this one should be at the top of your list.
Home Goods
5. LEVOIT Air Purifier
Between our less-than-ideal air quality during the winter and Dave’s allergies and asthma, there are plenty of reasons why I like to have an air purifier in our home. (Learn more about the importance of indoor air quality here.) But I’m also picky about my decor, and I like this purifier because it’s effective and looks great too—I’ve even given it as a wedding gift on more than one occasion!
6. Square Tissue Box Covers
I am one of those people who like to have a box of tissues in every room, but I wanted a cover or holder for the boxes that would be cohesive with my decor. When I found these faux leather tissue box covers, it was love at first sight—I bought one in rose pink, one in pastel grey, and one in camel.
7. Portable Trash Bag Holder
We finally got a curbside recycling can last year, which meant I needed to figure out a system for where to keep our cardboard, plastic, and aluminum waste, and these trash bag holders turned out to be just the ticket. I hung it over the handrail on the stairs into my garage (no installation necessary) and it supports 13-gallon, tall kitchen bags perfectly.
8. Leather Honey Conditioner
If you are looking for something to help keep your leather furniture in good shape, then I can’t recommend this conditioner enough. A single application is all it takes to clean and condition my couches to the point that they look brand new again!
Related: Here’s How To Clean Leather Furniture The Right Way
Yard & Garden
9. Hanging Bird Feeder
In an effort to keep my feathered neighbors well-fed, I bought 2 of these extra long feeders so that plenty of birdies that can eat at the same time. Seeing them flock to my yard every morning brings me a great deal of joy.
Related: 7 Simple Ways To Make Your Yard A Haven For Birds
10. Patio Umbrella Light
This simple light can clip around any umbrella pole and light up the backyard on nights when it’s just too nice to go indoors. It has 3 brightness settings so you can adjust it based on your needs or preferences.
Travel Essentials
11. trtl Travel Pillow
This was another purchase I made before our vacation to Hawaii last summer, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s the best travel pillow I’ve ever used! It’s unique in that it’s a lot more structured than other travel pillows, but that’s also why it’s better too. But if you travel at all (be it by plane, train, or car), then I highly suggest giving one a try for yourself.
What’s one of the best things you bought last year?