The Ultimate 2019 Favorite Things & Holiday Gift Guide: Tried, Tested, and Loved Must-Haves

Welcome to my ultimate compilation of the very best products and discoveries from 2019! Everything featured on this carefully curated list has been thoroughly tried and tested, earning its place among my most cherished possessions. Whether you’re seeking the perfect present for a loved one or looking to treat yourself, you’ll find an abundance of inspiring gift ideas and personal essentials here.

There’s a special joy in sharing the things that truly make life better, easier, or simply more delightful. This annual “Favorite Things” post is one I eagerly anticipate crafting each year, a chance to reflect on the products that have genuinely impressed me. It’s more than just a list; it’s a collection of honest recommendations born from real-world use.

While I began sharing comprehensive gift guides several years ago, last year I decided to fine-tune the experience by introducing a dedicated My Favorite Kitchen Accessories post. If you haven’t yet explored that particular guide, I highly recommend checking it out, especially if you’re considering upgrading your own kitchen essentials or searching for thoughtful gifts for the culinary enthusiast in your life!

One of the aspects I value most about these guides is their enduring relevance. I can confidently tell you that my curated list from last year’s favorite things remains incredibly pertinent today. I continue to own and actively use every single item from that guide, just as I do with all the fantastic products I’m thrilled to share with you in this 2019 edition. My commitment is simple: if I don’t absolutely adore and regularly use a product, it won’t make it onto my list. This ensures that every recommendation comes with my genuine seal of approval.

Timing is everything, especially with the holiday season approaching! I wanted to make sure this comprehensive guide reached you well in advance of Black Friday. This way, you’ll have ample time to plan your holiday shopping, whether you’re treating yourself to something special or ticking off items on your gift list. As an added bonus, where I’ve been able to secure them, I’ve also included exclusive discount codes to help you save even more!

Alright, enough with the anticipation! Let’s dive right into my top picks for 2019. Get ready to discover some truly amazing finds!

Hydroflask: To be perfectly honest, the Hydroflask was intended for last year’s favorite things list, but I had only just purchased it and felt it wouldn’t be right to recommend something I hadn’t thoroughly put to the test. After an entire year of consistent use, I can now unequivocally state that this is, without a doubt, one of the finest water flasks available on the market. Its incredible insulation capabilities keep water ice-cold for well over 12 hours, making it perfect for long days out, gym sessions, or just keeping hydrated at your desk. Furthermore, the thoughtfully designed spout naturally encourages me to drink more water throughout the day, which has been a game-changer for my hydration habits. It’s durable, stylish, and an absolute essential for anyone serious about staying hydrated.
Pearl Earrings: Forget everything you thought you knew about pearl earrings being reserved solely for formal events. These aren’t your grandmother’s pearls that only see the light of day for fancy soirées. What makes these particular pearl earrings a standout favorite is their remarkable versatility and sophisticated appeal, suitable for everyday wear. They possess an undeniable elegance that makes them appear far more expensive than their actual, highly reasonable price tag suggests, offering incredible quality and style without breaking the bank. Their classic beauty makes them an ideal and thoughtful gift for almost any woman in your life – a cherished mom, a beloved sister, a best friend, or a daughter just starting her jewelry collection. They effortlessly elevate any outfit, from casual to chic.
Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick: If there’s one lipstick I’ve encountered that seems to possess a magical ability to flatter nearly every skin tone, it’s this one from Charlotte Tilbury. This isn’t just any matte lipstick; it’s a true miracle product that delivers a sophisticated matte finish without ever making your lips look dry or cracked. Instead, it imparts a smooth, comfortable wear that feels luxurious. Beyond its beautiful texture and universal appeal, its staying power is truly impressive – it actually stays put for hours without constant reapplication. As someone who’s spent years working in the makeup industry, I tend to prefer a more streamlined, “basic” approach to my own routine, and this lipstick delivers exceptional results even when worn on its own, without the need for a lip liner. It’s the epitome of effortless glamour.
Trophy Skin MicroMD: My skin has undergone a remarkable transformation since I invested in the Trophy Skin MicroMD about six months ago, during a special promotion on QVC. For those of us who don’t have the luxury of time (or, let’s be honest, the patience) to schedule professional facials every few months, this at-home microdermabrasion machine is an absolute game-changer and has seamlessly integrated into my nighttime routine. I typically use it once a week, though sometimes I extend it to once every two weeks, and each session consistently leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth, renewed, and looking significantly better. The device is designed with a brilliant built-in screen that provides clear, step-by-step instructions, making the process incredibly easy to follow, even for beginners. Considering its cost is roughly equivalent to a single professional microdermabrasion treatment, I wholeheartedly recommend it as a smart, long-term investment in your skin’s health and appearance.
Converse Shoes: As someone whose daily wardrobe leans heavily into the casual, comfortable realm, I can confidently proclaim these Converse shoes as the absolute best neutral, everyday casual footwear I own. What sets them apart is their ingenious design: the laces are purely decorative, meaning these are true slip-on-and-go sneakers. This feature alone makes them incredibly convenient for busy mornings or quick outings, allowing for effortless on and off. Their timeless style and neutral color palette ensure they seamlessly complement virtually any outfit, from jeans and a t-shirt to more relaxed dresses. They’re a fantastic choice for women of all ages seeking comfort, style, and versatility in their footwear.
Scuba Hoodie:I know what you might be thinking – I live in Texas, where warm weather dominates. However, if there’s one single article of clothing I wish I could own in multiple quantities, it would unequivocally be this Scuba Hoodie. It’s a piece I could literally live in forever due to its unparalleled comfort and thoughtful design. I’m particularly obsessed with the cozy funnel scuba neck, which provides extra warmth and protection, and the practical thumb holes that keep the sleeves perfectly in place. While it’s certainly not the cheapest hoodie you’ll ever purchase, for someone like me who practically lives in athleisure wear, I consider this an absolutely essential, indispensable item for any closet. Its quality, warmth, and stylish details make it worth every penny.
Pajama set: One of my absolute favorite traditions during the holidays is gifting luxurious pajama sets! This particular set also happens to be an exceptional choice for a new mom or a mom-to-be, making it a perfect addition to her hospital bag. The thoughtful front-closing buttons are not only stylish but also incredibly practical and ideal for nursing mothers, offering ease and comfort. Crafted from an ultra-soft and irresistibly cozy material, these pajamas promise ultimate relaxation. The overwhelmingly positive ratings for this item truly speak volumes about its quality and comfort. Do keep in mind that this set tends to run a little large, which is fantastic if you prefer a more relaxed, roomy fit. However, for a more tailored and snug feel, I’d suggest sizing down from your usual size.
Gucci bag:This is, without a doubt, a luxury item, and certainly one you’d likely purchase for yourself as a significant treat, or perhaps subtly (or not so subtly!) hint about to a loved one. I’ve been the proud owner of my Gucci bag for over a year now, and despite using it almost every single day, it remains in impeccable condition. Initially, I had a slight concern that the dark wash of my denim jeans might transfer onto the beautiful navy color of the bag, but to my delight, that hasn’t happened at all. It has proven to be incredibly resilient. This bag truly is the perfect neutral accessory, effortlessly complementing just about any outfit, from casual daytime looks to more elegant evening ensembles. I genuinely cannot overstate how much I adore this investment piece.
Loloi Rug: If your aesthetic, much like mine, leans towards a serene, neutral palette, then this Loloi rug is an absolute dream for virtually any room in your home. I originally purchased it for our living room and was immediately captivated by its beautifully muted color scheme. It features a sophisticated washed grey base subtly interwoven with delicate hints of purple and elegant steel blues, creating a wonderfully calming ambiance. A practical bonus: this rug is exceptionally adept at hiding stains, making it a perfect choice for high-traffic areas. Do keep in mind that it is a very low-pile rug, so if you desire a thicker, more plush sensation underfoot, I highly recommend placing a rug pad underneath it. I’ve made sure to link the lowest price I could find for this stunning rug, and I am quite certain you will fall in love with it for your bedroom, home office, or family room.
Madewell Denims: Full disclosure: high-rise denim jeans and I were never, ever friends. Given that I tend to carry a little more weight in the hip region than I’d prefer, I always diligently steered clear of anything high-rise, convinced they wouldn’t flatter my figure. That is, until I discovered these absolute beauties from Madewell! They completely transformed my perception. These jeans are magic – they expertly hold you in, gracefully hug your curves in all the right places, and the wash is a perfectly balanced dark enough shade to be dressed up for a chic look, yet light enough to effortlessly dress down for casual wear. Madewell is known for its excellent Black Friday sales, and these particular jeans are currently available at 25% off, bringing them to under $100. From personal experience, I can confidently say they are absolutely worth every single penny.
Olive Branches: It’s almost a given that these beautiful olive branches are perpetually out of stock, such is their immense popularity! But when you manage to get your hands on a few stems and artfully arrange them in your favorite vase, you’ll instantly understand why they are so highly coveted. I have three stems gracefully placed in a clear vase on our entry table, and the natural elegance they bring brightens up the entire space with an effortless charm and a touch of organic beauty. P.S. I just did a quick check, and by some stroke of luck, they are still miraculously in stock! Don’t miss this opportunity; use the code SNOWWHATFUN at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase. Take my word for it, this is an incredible price for such a beloved and impactful home decor item.
Cashmere and Fig Hand Soap/Lotion: This exquisite Cashmere and Fig Hand Soap and Lotion set is one of those truly brilliant items to keep readily on hand for any last-minute gifting needs that inevitably arise. Who among us doesn’t appreciate a subtle hint of everyday luxury, especially when it comes in the form of beautifully fragranced soap and a rich, moisturizing lotion? The delicate yet captivating scent of cashmere and fig creates an immediate sense of calm and indulgence. This duo makes for an ideal and universally appreciated gift for a wide array of recipients – whether it’s for dedicated teachers, cherished friends, thoughtful hosts, or genuinely almost anyone you can think of. As an added incentive, you can currently enjoy a generous 30% off your purchase with the code SAVEMORE at checkout.
CC cream: This CC cream has unequivocally earned its title as the best I have ever used. Since discovering this remarkable product, I have completely stopped wearing full-coverage foundation altogether – it’s that transformative. It provides just the right amount of light to medium coverage, evening out skin tone beautifully without feeling heavy or mask-like. What I particularly love is its dewy finish, which imparts a healthy, natural radiance to the skin, ensuring you never look like a flat, lifeless mannequin with no visible cheekbones. For those days when you want to feel a little extra fancy, simply sweep on a touch of bronzer and you’re good to go! It truly is the perfect, effortless product for daily wear, enhancing your natural beauty with minimal effort.
Protini Moisturizer:I have a little secret to share regarding my skincare routine. After I complete my microdermabrasion session, I generously slather on a considerable amount of this Protini Moisturizer, and I’ve genuinely noticed a significant improvement in the firmness of my skin. On days when my skin craves an extra boost of hydration and moisture, I layer it. I begin by applying the nourishing virgin marula oil, allowing it to absorb, before finishing off with a pump of the Protini moisturizer. This dynamic duo works wonders for all skin types. It’s worth noting that both products are part of the “clean” beauty movement, formulated without harmful ingredients. In fact, Drunk Elephant is almost exclusively the brand I turn to when it comes to my comprehensive skincare regimen, a testament to their efficacy and quality.
Apple Watch: This particular item is so exceptionally useful and integrated into my daily life that it has earned a coveted spot on my favorite things list for the second year in a row! I genuinely cannot bring myself to take this watch off, no matter the occasion. Whether I’m attending a formal wedding, hitting the gym for a workout, or simply heading out to run errands, I can absolutely guarantee that this indispensable little device will be securely on my wrist. It diligently counts my steps, monitors my activity, and, crucially, makes sure to prompt me to get up and move for at least a minute every hour when I find myself glued to my computer screen all day. Its seamless blend of convenience, health tracking, and connectivity makes it an irreplaceable personal assistant.
Old Navy Cozy Pullover: The Old Navy Cozy Pullover is the quintessential sweater tunic, perfect for those days when all you want to do is embrace comfort, lay low, and truly relax. By now, it should be abundantly clear (if it wasn’t already) that my wardrobe philosophy is built around comfortable clothes. This incredibly soft and versatile pullover tunic, paired with a comfortable set of tights (which I’ll discuss further below) and my trusty Converse sneakers, constitutes a foundational and much-loved staple outfit in my everyday wardrobe. It’s the perfect ensemble for lounging at home, running casual errands, or simply enjoying a relaxed day out, always delivering on both comfort and understated style.
Zip up Sneakers:I acquired these zip-up sneakers with the intention of injecting a bit more edge and contemporary style into my wardrobe, all while maintaining my preferred minimalist aesthetic. And they delivered perfectly! These sneakers are incredibly comfortable – I cannot emphasize that enough. I absolutely adore that they can be slipped on or off in mere seconds, offering unparalleled convenience without sacrificing style. They provide exceptional comfort while still looking fashion-forward. Keep in mind that they might require a tiny bit of breaking in initially (at least, my pair did), but after just a few wears, they transform into the most comfortable shoes. If you’re eager to expedite the comfort factor, you could even try the old socks and blow dryer trick. They are available in several different colors, and while I personally opted for the sleek black/gunmetal leather ones, they also come in another option with a variety of other appealing shades.
Side Pocket Tights:It’s a testament to how truly excellent these tights are that I own not just one, but three distinct pairs in varying lengths. I purchased them at the beginning of the year after hearing all the enthusiastic buzz, and it didn’t take long for me to fully understand what all the hype was about. They are fantastic to wear during workouts, providing both support and flexibility. However, where they truly shine for me is in my everyday life – whether I’m bustling around the house shooting recipes, tackling cleaning tasks, or running various errands. I wear at least one pair every single week, and most weeks, all three pairs get their turn. While they do lean a little towards the expensive side, I can confidently say the investment is absolutely worth it, especially considering they look just as good today as they did when I first bought them over 365 days ago. Their durability and sustained quality are unparalleled.

And that concludes my comprehensive roundup of all my favorite things from 2019! I sincerely hope this detailed guide proves helpful, whether you’re diligently searching for the perfect gifts for others or planning a well-deserved treat for yourself. Each item on this list has brought genuine value and joy into my life, and I’m confident they will do the same for you.

Happy Black Friday shopping, and may you find exactly what you’re looking for!

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