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I’m A Shopping Editor, *Of Course* I Have 29 Favorite Products Of The Year Already

Why should I wait until the end of the year to give you the good stuff?

Posted 8 hours ago

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by Amanda Davis BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff

I'm Amanda Davis (she/her), a Shopping & Products Editor at BuzzFeed who specializes in many topics, including beauty, fashion, home decor, and my personal favorite — small businesses.

You may think it's too early to call favorites, but after you see purse-shaped vases, custom snack trays, and a body mist version of Eos' delicious Vanilla Cashmere scent — the decision makes itself! From Amazon to some incredibly cool small businesses, these finds will make their way into your favorites list, too.

1. A floral bustier topgiving Renaissance royalty kind of energy... and who wouldn't want that in a top that you wear during catch-up cocktails with your besties? Thy whispered secrets(the tea) shall ring more sweetly (sound 10x better) when you're dressed the part. Oh! And it's comfortable too. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

BTW, it features a lace-up back *and* a side zipper!

Promising reviews: "Love this corset.... Quality is fantastic, and I got endless compliments both in person and on social, so it truly translates well out of the bag. I buy a lot of clothes on Amazon, and this has got to be a top 5 favorite." —Gwen Begley

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–18 and in 18 colors and patterns).

2. Eos' Vanilla Cashmere body mist, a fragrance for anyone who's already obsessed with the viral lotion and body oil. This all-over mist has the same iconic scent and features notes of soft musk, whipped vanilla, and caramel. PLUS, it's got some skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe to help smooth and moisturize your skin at the same time. 10s across the board!

Amazon, www.amazon.com

See it reviewed on TikTok here. 

Promising review: "So I am a ride or die for Eos Vanilla Cashmere. I can't tell you how many bottles of the lotion I've gone through just this year. I absolutely love [it]. When I heard about the perfume, I was SO excited. It's exactly like the lotion; it's perfect. It lasts quite a while. I spray it on me before I go to bed, and I can smell it when I wake up. Plus, you get a good amount for the cost, so it's worth it. This is another Eos item that will be on a subscription now, too. I am dying for shampoo and conditioner, so I hope that's in the works soon! Please Eos! I am a Vanilla Cashmere goddess! Hahaha 💕" —Nikki

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in seven other scents).

3. A secret book lamp that'll fit seamlessly into your at-home library and provide the perfect ambiance for a "sit down, shut up, and let me read" kind of night. It comes in both plug-in and rechargeable versions, with the cordless option providing up to six hours of light with a single charge! (Which is very important info if one more chapter often turns into 10.)

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This little lamp is so cute on my bookshelf. It does need to charge for longer than most other rechargeable lights, but it’s worth it. It’s so cute and just adds a little something special to the shelf." —Jillian Tragone

Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in six colors and styles).

4. A curved (!!) SPF 50 Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar, a.k.a. your newest skincare obsession. This sunscreen is curved to shape your face *perfectly*, to help ensure that no spot is missed. The awesome water-resistant formula also hydrates and protects skin without leaving a white cast!

www.amazon.com, www.instagram.com

Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! 

Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen, and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned Black woman, and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin, and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin. Like you're not wearing anything at all." —Martina

Get it from Amazon for $15.92+ (available in multiple styles). 

5. The comfiest Levi's Cinch Baggy Jeans with an adjustable high waist that can be tightened to fit you juuust right — no expensive alterations needed. Those days of tight-in-the-thighs but loose-in-the-hips are over, and you won't ever be able to look back. These are the life-altering pair of jeans you need but didn't know existed, especially "for big butts and small waists," according to reviewers.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Looove these so much! I wore them almost every day on my recent trip to France. The jeans are a bit thinner, which makes them more comfortable and lightweight for summer. They were comfy enough for me to wear them on the flight... You can dress it up with heels or dress it down with sneakers. The buttons on the side let you cinch in the waistband if you need to, which is great for finding the right size... so far, the quality seems good. OH AND the pockets are HUGE! So good." —Marina 

Get it from Amazon for $48.99+ (available in women's sizes 24–40 Plus and eight colors).

6. A unique glass vase to hold your flowers in something adorably quirky and unusual in the best way (I mean, it's shaped like a freakin' purse!). This vase is wide from top to bottom, so your biggest, most beautiful bouquets won't have a problem fitting inside — especially if you trim the stems a bit!

Amazon

Promising reviews: "Stunning! This vase is absolutely phenomenal! I received many compliments! It definitely enhances any bouquet of flowers!" —Michelle Sheppard

"I love love love this vase. It’s thick and of quality, it's great! I bought two because I love it so much!" —SuzyB

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in 12 styles/colors).

7. Or a stunning Japanese-inspired Ikebana kit so you can turn any farmers market or grocery store bouquet into a literal work of art. This kit includes a gorgeous ceramic vase and a tool called the "flower frog," which has metal pins that help hold the flower stems upright. This arrangement method can help extend the life of your flowers, too.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Strikingly beautiful and easy gardening, floral, and greenery display! Very sharp, even after repeated use. Truly an attention-getter and catches even my eye at home every time I am near! Getting more now!" —Thomas K

"Easy and rewarding. So happy with my flower arrangement! I can’t believe how long it has lasted, too." —Shopiana

Get it from Amazon for $23.75+ (available in black or white).

Need some tips and inspo? Grab the book Ikebana: The Art of Arranging Flowers while you're at it!

8. A small Chunks picture frame hair claw because who wouldn't want to walk around with a photo of their beloved cat for all to see? It's also pretty great for family portraits and photos of your spouse, but you know who you really wanna give that spot of honor to. This cutie is also made of plant-based bio-plastic, so it's very strong and won't break after you accidentally drop it.

Chunks

Best for short to medium, fine hair.

Chunks is a Seattle-based small business founded by Tiffany Ju. The hair accessory brand was created in Ju's basement (!!) in 2019. 

Promising reviews: "Just as cute as I expected, it makes me so happy! The picture frame space is quite small, but I don't even mind. It's my new favorite accessory! I appreciated the personal touches too; it makes it feel like we're sharing art instead of just a product. Now I can carry my dearly departed orange boy around with me every day." —Jenny F.

"I got a standard as well as an oopsie version, and I love them both! I've got so many compliments on it, and it holds my thin, fine hair so well!" —Madison G.

Get it from Ban.do or straight from Chunks for $26.

9. Maldon Smoked Sea Salt Flakes for the ~perfect~ hit of flavor to add to your soups, stir fries, and even your mezcal margaritas 🤤. It's the smoked version of the original Maldon Sea Salt Flakes (yes, the same salt Queen Elizabeth used!) and is the easiest way to turn a simple recipe into a true culinary experience. If your palette leans savory (same here), this is an absolute MUST.

Amazon

One bold reviewer even added it to their coffee! 

Promising review: "The smoky sea salt by Maldon is the best by far that I have found. I love the crunch and flavor. I put it on my steaks and on my vegetables and baked potatoes, and top my scrambled eggs with it. I suggest buying two boxes." —Kimberly Yarbrough

Get it from Amazon for $7.92.

10. A graphic tee featuring your fave summer treats like clams, wine, olives, and more. Each design is printed on, but it looks like they've been hand-painted in the coolest way! This shirt deserves to be worn on the coast of Italy, so take this as your sign to add that trip to your cart, too 👀. 

Lisa Says Gah

Lisa Says Gah is a woman-owned small business that has earned Insta fame and is known for its quirky, colorful, and retro printed clothes.

Get it from Lisa Says Gah for $78 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and six styles).

11. A crocheted book thong that'll save your page in the most fun and unexpected way — it's as simple as that! It's perfect for bibliophiles who just love having quirky things in every aspect of their lives. And while there'll be no struggling to pick out wedgies, it will be hard picking a color!

Tifairy / Etsy

FYI, this bookmark is meant for small/medium-sized paperback books!

Tifairy is a woman-owned small business based in California.

Promising reviews: "So cute and very well made. I bought four so I could give a few to my female family members that also love to read—they were a huge hit!" —Danielle

"Such a cute and fun bookmark! It stays on your book nicely and keeps the pages still. It’s a fun and whimsical way to keep your books. Would make an excellent gag gift for your book lover friend or handout at your next book club." —Betsy

Get it from Tifairy on Etsy for $17 (available in 12 colors; custom color and personalization available upon request). 

12. A tube of Cocokind x Olipop flavored lip blur balm — a combo you didn't know you needed, but will be *so* glad to have in your arsenal. Each style is infused with ceramides, peptides, and extra-hydrating ingredients that their lips will love. With flavor options like Cream Soda, (🤤) Strawberry Vanilla, and Cherry Cola (in the prettiest red shade!), you'll have a hard time not nonstop gabbing about it to everyone who asks, "Ooo, what gloss are you wearing?"

Cocokind

Cocokind is a San Francisco-based business founded by Priscilla Tsai. The brand specializes in earth-friendly skincare and has expanded into makeup since its launch in 2015.

Promising reviews: "The best lip balm I have ever tried! Use it religiously, it nourishes, leaves my lips soft, and dare I say fuller due to the hydration it packs on ❤️❤️. If you're even thinking of getting it, just do it!" —Karina F.

"I LOVE these lippies!!! I use the cream soda one, and I love how sparkly it is; it feels so good on my lips! When I first bought this, I thought that I would be able to feel the glitter on my lips, and I didn't!!! I LOVE THIS." —Ansley O.

Get it from Ulta for $11.99 or straight from Cocokind for$12 (available in three Olipop styles and eight other colors). 

13. A pack of pretty pastel highlighters for journaling, color-coding your to-do list, marking priority tasks, or just making meeting notes more amusing. And BTW, reviewers say that don't bleed through pages either! 👏  

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

I own these highlighters (this color variation, specifically) and absolutely love them! They don't bleed and make annotating and staying organized much more enjoyable.

Promising review: "I’m such a fan of Mr. Pen products, and these highlighters are at the top of my list! I have bought several packs over the last year because I use them so much that I go through a pack pretty quickly. I mainly use them for Bible highlighting and in my planner and on my calendar to color-code various appointments and events...The colors are stunning!... The pastels and lighter colors did not bleed through at all...I will continue to buy these over and over again every time I run out because no other highlighters have met my standards like these." —jbk

Get an 8-pack from Amazon for $6.99 (available in various color sets and pack sizes).

14. A pair of crossover wide-leg pants, a.k.a. the coolest pants you ever did see. These are PROOF that hiking, camping, and outdoor clothes in general don't have to be boring. Stylish folks will love the unique crossover self-tie waist, while practical folks will appreciate the comfy pull-on style and extra-large pockets. Wow, you really can have it all.

Free People

BTW, reviewers recommend sizing down!

Get them from Free People for $148 (available in women's sizes XS–XL, three colors, and in gingham print!). 

15. A set ofKatsushika Hokusai Band-Aids, because why look at an ugly and plain bandage when you're already in pain? Patch it up with museum-worthy artwork from this iconic Hokusai x The Met collaboration instead. It probably (definitely) won't stop the pain, but it will make you smile as you heal.

Amazon

Promising review: "So totally awesome. 😬 I needed new Band-Aids — I’m always doing something ridiculous, and with these, so pretty. I have one cat that likes to let me know when she’s done with pets, and I have claw marks from her — not to mention my general clumsiness with gardening and cooking. Love them!!" —Mom the Handyman

Get a set of 50 from Amazon for $6.29.

16. And speaking of art, a frame-worthy cat scratcherthat I'm sure you wouldn't mind taking up space in your living room. Your furry BFF gets to sharpen their claws as often as they want, your furniture stays scratch-free, *and* you'll have cat-ified versions of art like the "Mona Lisa" and "Starry Night" on your walls, so really, there's no losing here.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

I'm not kidding, some reviewers actually frame it to help the scratch mat blend into their home even more. It does come with tape on the back if you want to apply it directly to walls or furniture, though.

Promising review: "I’m really impressed with this cat scratcher mat. The size is perfect for protecting walls, couches, or carpet, and the sisal material feels durable and doesn’t shed like cheaper options. My cat took to it right away and prefers scratching this over the furniture.

"Installation was easy with the adhesive pads and twist pins—it feels secure and hasn’t budged even with daily use. I like that it can be used flat on the floor or mounted vertically, so it’s versatile depending on where you need protection. The design is also a nice touch—it doesn’t look out of place in the house, which is rare for cat products.

"Overall, this scratcher is sturdy, well-made, and effective. Definitely worth it if you want something that lasts and keeps your cat happy." —Family Share

Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in six styles).

17. A washable insect rug — a 🐞bug rug🦋 if you will — featuring a colorful blend of botanicals and dragonflies, moths, beetles, and more. Their wings are filled with beautiful prints and colors, and I'm honestly obsessed! Plus, reviewers say that it's soft,  durable, and perfect for high-traffic areas. It'll bug me if you don't add this to your cart immediately!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We absolutely love this rug! We bought it for our cottage, and it completely transformed the space. The colors are beautiful and cozy without being too busy, and the quality exceeded our expectations. It’s incredibly soft underfoot, which makes it perfect for barefoot mornings at the lake and for kids lounging on the floor playing games. It also lays flat quickly and feels durable enough for a high-traffic cottage area. Highly recommend if you want something comfortable, cozy, and stylish!" —maggie

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in 10 sizes and six colors).

18. Vaseline Glazed and Glisten Body Gel, which is basically a shimmery elixir for your body. It has helpful ingredients like cocoa butter to help lock in moisture, leaving your skin looking hydrated and glowing. Using this baby is like applying that gorge vacation glow whenever you want it. In other words, you need this ASAP.

www.amazon.com, Amazon

See it in action on TikTok here.

Promising reviews: "In love! Where do I begin? I can’t get over how pretty it makes your skin look after using it! It spreads on so easily, and it doesn’t leave residue on your clothes/bed, etc. The scent smells so good, and especially after shaving, it makes my skin so smooth and silky-looking. I add a vanilla lotion on top of this. 10/10 buy it!!" —Kendra Rogers

Get it from Amazon for $8.97 (also available inGolden Hour Glow).

19. A pair of trendy mesh ballet flatsthat can take a plain t-shirt and jeans to new, very stylish heights. These chic shoes are super versatile, the mesh material makes them nice and breathable (no stinky feet 'round here!), *and* reviewers say they're "comfy straight out of the box."

www.amazon.com, Amazon

These flats look very similar to a certain Alaïa pair that would normally cost an arm and a leg, just fyi.  👀 

Promising review: "These flats are amazing! The mesh material is soft and breathable, and the little patent leather details with the strap make them look so chic. I wore them nonstop in Italy and they were honestly a lifesaver on the cobblestone streets — comfy, supportive, and still stylish enough for all my outfits. They go with everything, from jeans and a tee to a cute dress, and the fishnet look makes them feel unique without trying too hard. Plus, the customer service was super helpful and friendly. Definitely one of my best shoes." —Shiva

Get it from Amazon for $43.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–11 and nine colors/styles; also available in a mule shape).

20. A small Baggu Cloud Carry-on — the essential that will change the game when traveling. It's cute, it fits under airplane seats, it holds ALL your stuff, and the smooth material and thick straps help ensure it doesn't get too uncomfortable to carry (but don't worry, it has a luggage sleeve, too). It also features loads of exterior pockets, making reaching for your water bottle, laptop, or boarding pass a piece of cake.

Baggu

I LOVE MY CLOUD BAG! I got it at the beginning of the year and have used it for every single trip so far. #1: It fits SO much. For a weekend trip, I'm able to pack five to six outfits (I like options, okay? 😅), plus toiletries and more. For longer trips, I love that it fits perfectly under airplane seats as a carry-on and has exterior pockets for my laptop, Kindle, passport, etc. And the pockets are *huge*. #2: It's packable!! As someone living in a smaller apartment, I don't have tons of storage space, especially not for bulky bags and luggage. My favorite thing about this bag is that it folds up compactly and fits inside the interior pocket. So when not in use, it's stored in a drawer in the closet! And #3: the patterns 😍. I own the blurred gingham brown colorway, but have been debating on getting another just because of how many cute options there are. 100% recommend.

Get it from Amazon for $78 (available in five styles) or straight from Baggu for $78 (available in 10 colors/styles).

21. A super stylish MacBook case so grabbing your computer at 9 a.m. on a Monday brings you a little more joy. It's so cute, it will ~literally~ banish any feeling of Sunday scaries. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

This case is compatible with the MacBook Air 13-inch with Retina Display and Touch ID, 2018-2021 models. Cases for the MacBook Pro 13-, 14-, 15-, and 16-inch can be found here!

Promising review: "This crocodile computer cover is sooo cute and stylish 🤎🐊 It fits my laptop perfectly and feels really protective without being bulky. The texture gives it a luxe look, and it’s great for keeping my computer safe from scratches. Love this for everyday use!" —Jaila Hill

"Pretty and functional! I’ve been having a moment with the Pantone cloud dancer, and this hits the aesthetic perfectly. Very easy to put on, fits my MacBook like a glove, made sure I verified my model number to buy the correct size. It’s a beautiful creamy white and looks and feels like leather. The embossed pattern and cut-out for the Apple logo give it such a high-end look, considering the demure price point. I plan on getting this in black, too." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in a variety of styles and colors, and for the 13-inch MacBook Pro).

22. An elegant spiral flatware set — anyone whose love language is words of affirmation *needs* this set, because the compliments will never stop coming your way when you pull these out during your next dinner party. They're stunning, dishwasher-safe, and handmade with high-grade 18/10 stainless steel.

Lazy Jamie

Each set includes a salad fork, a dinner fork, a dinner knife, a soup spoon, and a teaspoon.

Lazy Jamie is a small biz based in both New York and Los Angeles that makes retro-inspired home items with a sleek modern touch.

Get the five-piece set from Lazy Jamie for $62.

23. The Pink Stuff's new Squeezable Miracle Cleaning Paste with the same formula as the original Pink Stuff, but in MUCH more convenient packaging. It's truly an all-purpose miracle worker and tackles those messes you'd never thought would come out. So say goodbye to the grime inside your oven, the magic marker on your walls, and the hardwater stains in your shower!

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "This product, my drill, and the flat sponge type cleaning pad were the only thing that worked transforming this very dirty tub into cleaner than clean. Very little muscle power necessary. A little goes a long way. It takes off the worst of things and leaves a kind of ceramic coat behind. It’s amazing." —Glinda

Get it from Amazon for $5.97.

24. A vintage-inspired ornate pinboard because staying organized doesn't mean your bedroom, kitchen, or office has to be covered in uggo whiteboards and neon Post-its (you know the ones). This will tie in beautifully with your current decor, while keeping your calendars, to-do lists, and mood boards at a glance.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I honestly cannot get over how dreamy this board is. It’s easy to install, the frame looks high-quality, and the size is perfect. It’s nice because it has two holes in the back to stop it from moving/swaying... The design is so gorgeous and versatile that it can fit so many different interior styles. Would 1000% recommend!!" —Amazon Customer

"This pinboard gives such a nice look to my office! I can’t wait to fill it up! My design vibe was moody vintage, and this fits perfectly!" —Ruben Rivera

Get it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in three sizes and four colors).

25. A Reformation spaghetti-strap dress with a sweetheart neckline fitting for a day celebrating love and any other formal events you have on your calendar. The back is smocked to provide a little extra stretch, and the skirt is pleated and perfectly flowy to provide some extra *oomph*.  

Reformation

I recently wore the floral colorway (pictured on the right) to a wedding and received so many compliments! We were in a very hot and humid climate, and I found the dress to be breathable, extremely comfortable, and I loved that the bottom half was so flowy — much more that I expected, honestly! I plan to wear it again for another wedding later this year, so I'd definitely say it's worth the investment!

Get it from Reformation for $298 (available in women's sizes 0–12 and in six colors/patterns).

26. Some very cool magnetic frames so unique, you'll probably be crowned the Best Finder Of Good Stuff in your friend group (it was hard, but you earned it). They add a little color to your kitchen and make it 10 times easier to personalize your space.

Have A Nice Day, www.instagram.com

Have A Nice Day is a woman-owned small business!

Get it from Have A Nice Day for $12 (available in tons of styles).

27. A girl dinner-coded custom snack tray sure to turn your Love Island watch party into everyone's favorite place to yap and munch and munch some more. You can build a classic charcuterie with cheese, crackers, fruit, and jam OR use your free will and create a pasta/meatballs/salad try, a mango sticky rice/spring roll/peanut sauce try, a 100% just-dipping-sauces kinda thing — the options are endless.

Needs Pottery / Etsy

Needs Pottery is a small business based in Wisconsin.

Promising review: "Lovely quality and arrived super well packaged! It may take time to get to you, but it's absolutely worth it. I requested carrots and radishes for the veggie section, and they're SO cute. I'm in love with it!" —Etsy buyer

Get it from Needs Potteryon Etsy for $125+ (available in five sizes).

28. An elevated pet bed that may look better than your own, but hey, they deserve the best. This beauty comes with a memory foam mattress, a removable and machine-washable (!!) cover, and a durable frame made from eucalyptus and poplar wood. The fact that you can *easily* build this without any tools is just a bonus!

NomoHaus

NomoHaus is a small business focused on both beautiful and functional pet furniture. 

Promising reviews: "There are not a lot of orthopedic dog beds that are also stylish…until we found NomoHaus! This bed is comfortable, easy to assemble, easy to clean, and so chic and cute. Moose has pretty bad separation anxiety and usually sleeps on a bed in the same room we work in, but after we received this bed, we would find him in the living room sleeping on his NomoHaus bed. Safe to say, he loves his bed! On top of that, customer service was also amazing. I emailed them with a couple of questions, and they responded promptly and answered all my questions." —Calyx C

"And to think that my baby slept in an Amazon box for years! Well, no more! The Leo Bed is an instant hit, top quality, and seriously beautiful 😍 Robbie is a big [cat], 20 pounds of love. The small/medium is the perfect size. Do not hesitate to buy this bed!" —Cynthia

Get it from NomoHaus for $279+ (available in S/M [ideal for cats and small dogs] and L/XL [ideal for larger dogs]).

29. And last but certainly not least, somesevered finger bookmarks for anyone who spends the year waiting for October and all things spooky. We're almost there!! But, for now, you can use these creepy bookmarks as you read your vampire sagas and murder mysteries.

Michies Madhouse / Etsy

Michies Madhouse is a small business that makes bookmarks and accessories of the horror variety. They've got earthworm and zombie bookmarks, finger pens, tooth earrings, and more.

Promising review: "Gifts for my daughter and granddaughter, and they loved them. They look so real and perfect for their scary reads. Great quality, nicely packaged, and fast shipping." —Beau

Get it from Michies Madhouse on Etsy for $8+ (originally $10; available in two colors).

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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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