Beauty

22 Things I Don’t Regret Buying In 2022

I’m easily influenced, but I’m also on a college student budget, so I hate when I buy things that aren’t worth the money. The end of the year is a great time to evaluate the products you bought and which ones you would buy again!

By Alyssa Vandermeulen5 min read
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In 2022, I decided to completely revamp my makeup bag and find products that gave me more bang for my buck. I also started selling things on Poshmark, which allowed me to free up physical and mental space for things I actually love! My biggest shopping tip, coming from a girl who loves to shop, is to make a list of things you want to buy or feel influenced to buy. Then, let that list sit for at least a week before clicking checkout. You’ll discover that you don’t actually need or want most of your impulse buys, and you’ll find where the actual needs and wants are in your life. 

Without further ado, here are 22 things I don’t regret buying in 2022! 

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1. Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Drops ($36)

Mixed with your favorite moisturizer, these drops give your skin a beautiful glow. I was influenced to buy this product in March, and I won’t go back. The bottle is small but lasts a long time, and I’ll definitely rebuy once I’m out of drops. You can layer it under foundation or wear it with just your skincare combo for an effortless no-makeup look! 

2. OUAI Leave-In Conditioner ($28)

My combination curly/wavy/straight hair (yeah, it’s a lot) loves this leave-in conditioner. It smells nice, is super moisturizing without leaving my hair sticky, and protects my hair from the daily flat iron. The one caveat to my love affair with OUAI is the size of the bottle for the price. I’ve repurchased 4 times this year, and while I typically buy it in bulk during a Sephora sale, it’s admittedly a little pricey. 

3. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag ($38)

I know it’s difficult to find, but the belt bag is so worth the time, money, and energy it takes to snag one. I had no idea how much I would use it until I owned one! It has tons of pockets for all your necessities, fits a small wallet, and can be worn a few different ways. I love it for hot girl walks with my dog, grocery shopping, or any activity where I’d like to be hands-free. I have the black one, which goes with everything, but I’m looking forward to buying the beige one when it comes back in stock. 

4. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush ($20)

I switched to liquid/cream blushes about two years ago, but the Rare Beauty blush is superior to the rest of the market (and I’ve tried almost every one). You only need a little dab on each cheek for the prettiest glow, and their shade range has so many options for any look. Personally, I love the shade “Encourage.” The packaging is also super cute and is perfect for travel. 

5. Gorjana Bali Huggies in Gold ($45)

These huggies are the perfect everyday jewelry piece, and I seriously wear them almost every day. I’ve had mine for a year, and they have no signs of tarnishing, even when I wear them to the pool or the beach. I also have sensitive ears, and this pair of earrings has never bothered my ears! 

6. Abercrombie Bodysuits ($45)

Aritzia who? Abercrombie bodysuits are my favorite. This year, I added a few tank top bodysuits to my collection, as well as a few long sleeves to layer in the colder seasons. They fit well, show off your figure, and don’t bulk up under jeans or trousers. If you haven’t pulled the trigger yet, this is your sign. Plus, they’re almost always on sale! 

7. Rifle Paper Co. Daily Planner ($30)

This type-A girlie loves her planners! As a student, as a writer, and now as a teacher, my planner is my daily best friend. I love the Rifle Paper Co. planners because they have so many size options and patterns, and they hold up well after a year of use. My 2022 planner didn’t have any scratches or dents on the cover. 2023 is my third year of using their planners, and I plan on using them in the future. 

8. Farmacy Honey Halo Moisturizer ($48)

My dry winter skin was saved by this moisturizer. I recently switched from using mostly Drunk Elephant products to choosing specific products rather than one brand’s skincare line, and my skin has been happier since then. I have combination skin, with little to no acne and quite a few dry spots. I love the ingredients in this product, as well as the subtle honey scent, and while packaging isn’t everything, this glass and bamboo jar looks adorable on my dresser. 

9. Converse High-Top Chuck Taylors in White ($65)

It took me a while to get in on the trend, but these are classics for a reason! I love wearing them with jeans, dresses, and shorts in the summer, and I alternate between visible socks and no-shows. I’m currently contemplating purchasing a pair of black high tops as well. 

10. Juliette Has a Gun Vanilla Vibes Perfume ($140)

This scent is sweet and sophisticated. During the spring and summer months, I love a softer, floral scent. But during the fall and winter, I lean towards spicier vanilla scents. This one is the best I’ve found! Elegant and not overpowering, without that juvenile sugar cookie sweetness that most vanilla fragrances carry. You won’t regret it! 

11. Paula’s Choice RESIST Toner ($26)

This is, hands down, one of the best decisions I made for my skin this year. I love how this product double cleanses my skin, and one bottle has lasted me almost 6 months, so it’s well worth the money. Dab a little on a cotton pad and wipe your skin clean before the rest of your skincare routine. 

12. White UGG Bedding ($300)

This year, I decided to upgrade my bedding and create a cozy haven for better sleep. UGG bedding has been one of my favorite purchases of the year! If you’ve been looking to update your bedroom for something resembling the vanilla girl aesthetic, I’d highly recommend this set! 

13. Saie Slip Tint ($36)

I’ve been using the BareMinerals Complexion Rescue tinted moisturizer for almost a decade, and while I’ve loved it for years, my skin is changing and has different needs now. After watching tons of review videos, I settled on the Saie Slip Tint…and I absolutely love it! With the perfect amount of light-to-medium coverage, this product sets well on the skin and provides a beautiful glow. 

14. Voluspa Santal Vanille Glass Jar Candle ($32)

There is nothing better than a hot cup of tea and a beautiful candle on a cold winter morning. A stunning piece of décor for your bedside table with a warm and spicy scent, I am in love with this candle. They also have tons of other scents to choose from, if you’re simply in the mood to treat yourself to a fancier candle. 

15. Panera Sip Club Membership ($11.99 monthly)

If you’re a drink girlie like I am (constantly dehydrated and hydrating), do yourself a favor in 2023 and sign up for the Panera Sip Club! I use mine almost every day, and sometimes more than once! You get a free drink every 2 hours every day of the month – which includes fountain drinks, iced teas, regular coffees, iced coffees, and hot tea. 

16. Cowboy Boots ($270)

New hobbies, especially active ones, are a great way to start a new year. In 2022, I picked up line dancing with a few of my girlfriends, and cowboy boots were a necessity! I have two tall pairs – one black and one brown, each with a rounded toe. Whether you plan on wearing them to country events or just love the western aesthetic, a comfortable pair of cowboy boots can radically change your closet with just one purchase. I have worn mine a ton since purchasing a pair! 

17. Olive and June Nail Polish ($9)

Doing my nails on a weekly basis is my favorite form of self-care. I typically alternate between neutral tones and brighter hues depending on the season, and the Olive and June brand has been my favorite this year. With so many colors to choose from, my collection of colors has expanded quite a bit, and I rarely go to the nail salon. I also love that these polishes are 7-free and have long-lasting color. My manicures typically last 2 weeks with the right prep! 

18. The Original MakeUp Eraser 7-Day Set ($25)

Makeup wipes are expensive, wasteful, and overall not great for your skin or the environment. I decided to buy a set of washable makeup eraser pads at the start of the year, and I’ll never go back to using wipes. These adorable pads gently remove makeup (mascara too!) with just water! The backside gently exfoliates your skin after cleansing, and then you just throw them in the washing machine to wash with your next load. I give sets as gifts and recommend them to everyone! 

19. Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean ($89)

If you’re on the shorter side, these jeans were made for you! I own this pair in two different washes, and I have a few more currently in my cart. The length is perfect for any pair of shoes, they hug your waist and show off your feminine shape, and they’re incredibly comfortable. I’m not a fan of stiff jeans, so this style is perfect for my body. I wear them with oversized sweaters and jackets, as well as bodysuits and girly tops in the spring and summer. 

20. Welly’s Bandaids ($8)

I’m the mom friend of my friend group, so I always have a first aid kit (or two) on me just in case. But why carry ugly bandages when you can carry cute ones? While it may seem silly to have bandaids on my favorites list, these are pretty amazing. Perfect for blisters, papercuts, scraped knees, etc. – these band-aids are so cute and fun, and they last forever! 

21. The Body Shop Edelweiss Liquid Peel ($27)

The newly revamped version of the Drops of Youth Liquid peel is one of my favorite skincare products ever. I use it 3x a week, right after cleansing before my shower, and it gently removes my dead skin buildup without irritating my skin. I typically avoid exfoliation solutions because of how harsh they are on my sensitive skin, but this one does the job without any redness. 

22. Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream ($48)

I can honestly say that I’m a lotion snob. Especially post-shower, I need a lotion that sinks into the skin, actually moisturizes, and never pills. This creamy lotion smells like a tropical vacation and accomplishes everything I need in a lotion! It is a little pricey, but worth every penny and lasts longer than you’d expect. 

Closing Thoughts

As 2022 came to a close, I loved reflecting on some of my best and worst purchases of the year, in addition to all other year-end reflections.

Did any of these products make your "best purchase" list this year?

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