2025 Faves
Hello Friends and Enemies,
2025 is here and apparently so am I. After a brief hiatus from sharing my opinions (a loss for the internet, I know), My Faves are officially back. This is not a trend report, a PR roundup, or things I touched once and pretended to love. These are the products, habits, and little luxuries that actually earned a permanent place in my life this year. Beauty, wellness, home, and the extras that make everything feel a little more intentional. If I used it, loved it, and would replace it with my own money, it made the list.
Back by popular demand. Back with opinions. Back doing what I do best.
These are the products I actually reach for, not just admire on my shelf.
Face Value – Smooth Beginning Hydrating Cleanser
Gentle but not useless. Cleans without stripping, keeps my skin calm, and works morning or night without drama. It’s the kind of cleanser your barrier thanks you for.
Face Value – Night Mode (Retinol Alternative)
I love results but I love sleep more. This gives me smoothing, brightening, and long-term skin benefits without irritation or flaking. Consistency > chaos.
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré
A forever classic. The best makeup primer I have ever used- hands down. With great skin (and skin prep) comes a great makeup look.
OUAI Detox Shampoo
For all of the over committed in a rush queens like me who adore dry sahmpoo. Removes buildup without turning hair into straw.
Gua Sha
Low effort, high return. Helps with lymphatic drainage, tension, and makes my skincare feel intentional instead of rushed.
MCO Beauty Pressed Powder and Flawless Glow
I am not usually a dupes person- but wow! These two really hold a candle to their Charlotte Tilbury inspirations. AND at 1/4 of the price I am never going back.
Practical things that make everyday life smoother.
Milk Frother
The best part about this is the only thing I have NOT used it for is frothing milk! I use it to mix my powder supplemts, make my salad dressings more creamy, and many more things. A small tool that brings so much ease and I use daily.
Rocket Espresso Machine
Worth it. I have to thank my husband for this one. Once I got the hang of it (it took waaaay less time than I anticipated) I could never go back. I actually enjoy the time it takes me to make myself coffee in the morning- which is way less than I ever thought it would be.
Robot Vacuum
Buys back time and mental space. Highly recommend for anyone who values peace.
Candle Warmer
Gives extra life to my overpriced candels- basically makes them average price. girl math? Also the soft lighting changes the entire mood of a room.
Glassware That Makes You Smile
If you’re going to drink water, wine, or anything in between- it might as well be cute. I am loving these Anthropology dupes.
Not trends. Just things that actually work and you can feel working.
Hatch Alarm Clock
Waking up gently changes everything. Less cortisol, less chaos, better mornings. I’ll never go back.
Nighty Night Extra Tea
My nervous system loves this. Helps me wind down without feeling groggy or dependent on supplements. Always nice to end the day with a warm drink.
Creatine
Not just for gym bros. I take this for the cognitive benefits and honestly it has been a game changer. Brain fog is gone, attention span is back and I am dialled in. it’s a staple for longevity and energy.
Youtube Workout Classes
Accessible, efficient, and no mental gymnastics required. Moving my body consistently > intense workouts I avoid. I especially love Grow With Jo. Give it a try, she will have you sweating.
The non-product upgrades that quietly changed everything.
Colour Matching With The Style CV
Finding out I’m a Bright Winter was both validating and mildly offensive. WINTER..clutch my pearls. Suddenly everything made sense- why some colours made me look alive and others made me look… tired and beige. Dressing is easier, shopping is faster, my hair colour is better and I finally stopped forcing neutrals that were never meant for me. Knowing this has held me back from buying SO many things, a great way to save money.
Professional Makeup Lesson With Megan Brown
This was learning both how to do makeup and learning what actually works for my face. Small tweaks, better placement, fewer products, better results. I now look polished without trying to become someone else. Again, it has saved me from buying SO many products that just wouldn't work for me. A great investment.
Tulum, Mexico
Warm, beautiful, fun in the best way. Mexico has a way of slowing you down without asking permission. The food, the light, the water, the pace- everything feels grounding and joyful. It was the reminder I didn’t know I needed that rest is productive and life is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.
Wishing you the year you deserve,
Samm
xxxx