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I’m an impulsive spender, but 2023 was the year I started to get better with narrowing down purchases. I bought things that I still loved after a week and knew I would love for a long time.
With 2024 here, I wanted to recap my best five purchases of 2023.
- Little Words Project bracelets
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I’m kind of embarrassed to admit I think I bought 10 this year, but these are the most thoughtful presents ever.
I purchased a custom one for the birthday of one of my closest friends, a custom for my sister of the nickname our grandpa gave her and a custom for my mom of the phrase her grandma signed every card with. I also got a custom “16801” bracelet for me and two of my best friends for Christmas, and we wear them nearly every day.
I made about five purchases for my own collection, from custom bracelets to cute drops to the singular “Wicked” bracelet I got my hands on. I don’t regret a single one.
- E.L.F. Foundation
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This is the first foundation I’ve ever purchased. I feel like a real adult when I use it, and it has the perfect amount of coverage. It can even combat the flush I get whenever I drink.
I wear this everywhere, from class when my face is splotchy to a night out. I love the smooth formula and even though I have no comparison for it, I have no reason to try something else. I personally feel like foundation is a super basic way to make you feel more put together.
- Coach Outlet Nolita 19
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I purchased this gold and brown black purse shortly after I turned 21, and it was the best decision ever.
This is my singular going out purse — my reliable little baby that I love dearly.
This is where my ID lives and my cash in case there is a cover at the bar. There’s room for my keys, my phone, a lipstick, cash and wallet. This is the perfect shoulder bag for the bare necessities.
While this is the most expensive item on my list, I promise it will last longer than a $20 purse from Amazon that you aren’t motivated to care about. I knew if I didn’t have a staple bag, I would want to purchase in excess for every kind of outfit, so this splurge did save me money in the long run.
- Signet Ring
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I purchased this ring back in January and have worn it almost daily since. I bought a Taylor Swift one, because that’s my personality, but I feel like it’s important to find one that suits you.
I have anxiety and fidgeting helps me relax. I have tried many different rings to fidget with, but the thick signet ring is the most relaxing.
I also love that it shows up in photos, it’s big enough that no matter how far away the camera is, it will be noticed.
- Undgrnd Collective and College Town Culture Away Game Day Hoodie
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This was my favorite Christmas present this year, hands down. I got it in an XL which is the perfect oversized size for me.
I wore it during the Penn State bowl game, and will be wearing it during any away game where the goal isn’t to dress up and go out to a bar, simply because I would be inconsolable if this hoodie were to be destroyed.
I love a good comfort hoodie, and this is my new throw one to lounge one until further notice.
In today’s day and age, over-consumerism is the norm. This past year, I’m really happy with the intentional ways I spent money. I wasn’t perfect by any means, and would never pretend to be, but I’m a lot less confused with where my money went this year than I was in 2022.