It’s really in the last few years, since I’ve entered my 30s, that I’ve begun to feel comfortable with the idea of spending more money on a few really important things—things that will last forever, are timeless or are really worth the extra bucks.
When I finished college and was first starting out in my career, not only did I not have the budget to buy higher-quality pieces, but I also lived in a tiny studio apartment and didn’t have the space to start collecting things I could keep in the future. But there’s something about your 30s that feels more permanent. You’re usually a little more financially stable and are closer to a place where you want to start adding to your permanent collection. So here are a some things that I’ve learned are worth splurging on in my 30s…
Good pots and pans: I’ve lugged the same pots and pans from my first apartment in 2001 to every new home I’ve had since then. And you know what? They’re rusty and warped and just in need of a refresh. So last year, we replaced half our kitchenware with new pieces that are higher-quality, and hopefully, will be around for the next 5-20 years. The idea of spending more than $100 on a pan might seem crazy, but not if it will last you a long, long time, unlike the cheap-o ones I’d always used before.
My favorites: 01. Le Creuset braiser, 02. Kaico tea pot. 03. Mauviel Dutch oven, 04. Williams-Sonoma cast iron pan.
Skincare & beauty: Up until I turned 33 last year, I used drugstore products on my skin: Oil of Olay lotion, Neutrogena face wash, and Dove soap. They’ve been my staples since high school, and I never really had a reason to change them, or saw any reason why it was worth buying the fancier, more expensive products—that is, until I tried them. I’ve definitely noticed a change in my skin texture and undereye circles, and once I learned how to put on basic makeup (after a seriously helpful makeup lesson last year), I learned the value of good brushes, too.
My favorites: 05. One Love Organics cleanser, 06. Restorsea eye cream, 07. Restorsea day cream, 08. Laura Mercier cheek color brush, 09. Laura Mercier smudge brush. (I’ll have to get into my favorite makeup another time, as that’s a separate post in itself!)
Boots: The first time I went looking for a pair of leather boots, I just about peed in my pants. I was in my mid-20s and the idea of spending anything over $75 on shoes just wasn’t in my mental capacity. But it soon became clear that a lot of leather boots start in the $200 range, so I saved up for my first pair of Nine West boots that were a little over $200. And you know what? I still have them to this day, I and get the most compliments on them of all my shoes.
My favorites: 10. Loeffler Randall leather boots for the fall, 11. the always-classic Hunter boots for rain and snow, 12. Madewell booties, 13. Sperry Top-Sider boots for winter.
What pieces do you guys splurge on? And did you feel less guilty about splurging as you got older?
{Top photo by Bonnie Tsang}
I most definitely agree with every single item on this list!
A new Le Creuset pot has motivated me to cook for myself, reducing my costs of eating out and increasing my awareness of cooking wholesome, healthy food. It is worth every inch of cabinet space in my tiny studio.
I recently heard the skin compared to a screen door for the body, and have been wanting to find some gentler, healthier products. Thank you for listing your recommendations!
And boots–since when can a classic pair of boots, dark jeans and a favorite top not make me feel like a million bucks, no matter how hard the day can get?
Thanks for the inspiring post!
I’m in the market for a braiser and have been eyeing that Le Creuset one!
I usually splurge on handbags. I bought myself a big LV overnighter a couple of years ago and I carry that thing every single day and for every business trip. It sure does class things up when you have to go directly from plane to meeting!
Skincare – all organic/natural!
when it comes to clothing, i think that it really needs to suit the rest of my closet and style. Boots + bags should only be in leather, but freelancing sometimes makes it a bit hard. Luckily there are great vintage finds out there!
i agree!
and as a 30-something myself i have started to re-vamp my closet and home with items that will LAST.
i would add to your list: watches, handbags, and furniture!
xo – heather
http://www.ThisLifeIsYours.com
Sheets! My husband and I learned early in our marriage that buying really cheap sheets is a waste of money- they look AND feel icky really fast! Snuggling into a well-made bed of high quality sheets makes all the difference in a good night’s sleep.
So true! Heck I’m in my mid 20’s and I already found the need to splurge on shoes occasionally (don’t worry I still stay in my range and buy lots of $10-20 on sale flats)… And as for skin, I used my wedding as an excuse to purchase good quality make up finally!
I had gotten in the habit of buying $20 pairs and my feet weren’t very happy. Neither was my wallet when I went back the next season to replace the ones I had just bought.
So I’ve been trying to focus on investing in a little bit higher quality shoes and boots. I had a bit of sticker shock at the beginning, but it’s getting easier recognizing the value in doing this 😉
Great post!
I love the idea of this! Even at 32, I still feel like the 20 year old you buying boots most of the time. But I think this is an important lesson. Right now, I want to splurge on a coffee table and a pair of winter boots. The nice thing about spending money on something is that I’ll wait to find the perfect item, not just haphazardly purchase something because it’s in my price range. Then you end up with things you love and keep for a long, long time.
I would add bras to the list. I was buying Gap Body bras for a while, but they fall apart pretty quickly since most of them are glued together and not sewn. Expensive shoes and bras are worth it, they last better and are waaaay more comfortable.
I also think it is worth spending money on a good chef’s knife.
Ahh…almost to my 30s, finished school and just starting my career. Can’t wait to be able to splurge. For now I have my ikea decorated apartment and pots and pans from a macy’s clearance sale lol.
I have been thinking about investing in my clothing and other things a lot more of late, and I completely agree with getting things to last! I like your choices! Really beautiful stuff!
I’m 2 years from 30, so I’ve already been anxious in thinking about that time & when I can finally purchase long-lasting items that will fit in a home bigger than 400 sq. feet! One thing I’m really looking forward to purchasing (well, 2) are a nice coffee maker & espresso machine. I love coffee & can’t really justify buying these huge items just yet, or find room for them! & of course, the pots & pans are huge on my list, so I can stop using the $6 ikea pans that smell of burnt rubber everytime I use them! ha!
I wanna be 30 then! : ) We are still in the “save to pay off college loans quickly” stage of our lives : ) You are the prettiest in her 30s girl ever! Have a great day!
YES! I’m entering the last year of my 20’s and I noticed a shift in my thoughts on splurging – pots, pans, shoes, and grooming, all worth the splurge.
Very interesting topic! It’s definitely true that the importance of quality and willingness to splurge grow with age – I’m one and a half year from 30 and I have also recently started to notice that I’m not always looking only the price tag as the first thing… Just to mention some things that are worth the extra money for me: wooden furniture with high quality (although I sometimes still buy some IKEA fibreboard), organic cosmetics and cleaning products, some clothes and shoes.
I love this round up Joy! I’m turning 30 this year, so I’m going to start saving now. 🙂 I feel like I’m especially in need of some better skincare products. Thanks for sharing!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
I’m definitely slowly learning this myself. You always hear “you pay for quality” but when you don’t really have a ton to spend it’s sometimes hard to justify. When you look back and think about how many say cheap handbags you’ve bought, in the long run spending on quality is better. The cheap things that don’t last add up. Also sometimes the more expensive things that do last have longer warranties. I just got a pair of Frye boots and they are covered for 2 years! While my Aldo boots from last year have a hole in them.. Good post Joy, very true and helpful for the future!
bags (as in purses), skin care, occasional jewelry items, cookware, chocolate, wine, sweaters and outerwear. 🙂
We are still carrying around our college pots and pans! Ugh. It is time for an upgrade.
My boots I bought in October are falling apart right now 🙁 I don’t think I can justify the +$200 yet but I’m getting there….
I just bought my first designer bag, a Coach Legacy caryall. I just turned 27, and have been in my career for a year now. It was heartbreaking to part with that much money at once, but I know it’s a classic, hard piece that will be with me for quite a while! Plus, it makes up for the fact that 2/3 of my closet came from thrift stores. 🙂
Britt
this is very relevant for me. i started replacing my kitchenware and bought myself matching china for the first time, so we can start hosting a pretty nice dinner for up to 8 people 🙂 i also started buying only leather handbags (in every color possible) and footwear. my next project is furniture. we have a lot of items from ikea. they look nice and sturdy, but somehow something inside you insists that they are not going to last.
This is all so relevant to me. I’ve only been in my 30’s for a week now, but I’ve had this mentality since marrying 5 years ago. We both came to realize that buying cheap things that don’t last is ultimately a waste of money. Save up and invest is our mentality. Cut back on incidentals and it will pay off in the long run. Great post!
I think it really pays off to wait to purchase things that will last longer. I try not to look at it as splurging since buying things that are higher quality usually means I buy them a lot less frequently. My loves….
-Trish McEvoy makeup/brushes
-Le Creuset cookware. Amaze balls.
-All Clad cookware
-Shun knives. Seriously, they are crazy sharp, totally ergonomic and make me feel like a better cook when I use them!
-Merino wool clothing. I live in Seattle and it’s basically a necessity.
My husband is in charge of the kitchen, but we’ve developed a pretty nice collection of cookware over the years. Lots of cast iron and le creuset, most of it gifted by generous parent types. It really does make a world of difference as far as prep time and results.
I’m not into my 30s yet (although I’ll be there sooner than I’d like to admit) but I always splurge on makeup, especially foundation. I’ve found that a tube of Lancome foundation, although much much more expensive than the drug store alternative lasts far longer, doesn’t make me break out, and just looks better.
In addition to what you’ve mentioned Joy, we also spend more money on wine! We don’t drink nearly as much as we did in college, but if I’m going to sit down and have a glass of wine, I want it to be somehting I’m sure I’ll really enjoy.
This is so true! My husband and I just invested in some good quality, stainless steel pans. I also think that bedding is another important one not to skimp on… you spend so many hours of your life in bed!
I love Coach! When there is a problem with a zipper or any other little bit, you just bring it and they get it repaired. When its all done, they mail it to you. LOVE THAT!
I’m starting to feel a little of this in my late 20’s as well. And furniture has been a big part of this. Now that I’ve moved out of NYC and to California, I have enough space to actually house quality furniture and maybe more importantly, I actually care to get long-lasting products. Gone are my plastic dresser drawers and plastic Kmart plates!
i splurged on those same sperry’s this year! also, i was in LA yesterday and stopped at the parish for late lunch/early dinner thanks to your suggestion! it was so yummy! thanks!
i just turned 30 last month….and oh how i appreciate this!
it seemed like with this new age came a whole new understanding of how important it is to be surrounded by simplicity and quality. and fancy pots and pans. haha
All of my Frye boots are splurges for me. But, comparing them to other brands, I can’t top their craftsmanship and that they are made in the USA!
I love your blog! Great post.
I´m your new follower.
Greetings from Madrid, Spain.
http://hotcinnamon.blogspot.com
Thanks for this post Joy! Always a pleasure to read your blog and it’s filled with amazing foodie places that I’ve gone to and have shared with friends. I think your revelation hits most people in their late twenties to early thirties, when you realize you’re not living paycheck-to-paycheck anymore. It’s a gradual progression, but one day it hits you: I can afford better items that I will care for and love forever. Purses are some of my biggest splurges and I always try to purchase classic pieces that are in high quality leather that I would feel comfortable putting into a will for my future daughter or nieces. As for the kitchen, my Wusthoff knives purchase was the best decision I have ever made! They have a nice balance and I love the fact that you can send them back for free repairs for life.
I really love this post and couldn’t agree more with your picks! I turn 30 this year and skincare, boots (plus shoes in general) and kitchen utensils are high on my list, too. 🙂
now that I’m a “grown-up” I am definitely splurging more on the house stuff… a good mattress, good pillows, good sheets, good knives, good pans. (PS you don’t have to splurge on cast iron pans – lodge pans are $20). I’m definitely not spending as much on clothes though… I find that I have my basics that I add to occasionally rather than buying clothes for the sake of shopping as I used to do when I was younger.
I think this is so true. We are finally starting to feel like we can and should buy stuff that will last. Our latest was mid century style dressers from West Elm. I still feel a little guilty spending money, but when them came I knew we would have them forever. We’ve also bought good pots and pans, good knives(but we cook a lot), a good mattress. We splurge on really useful stuff.
I agree, especially with shoes!! I have a pair of Nine West boots and a pair of Frye’s that I’ve had for YEARS… I hated spending that much money but they have held up amazingly well, and I get compliments on both pairs of boots every time I wear either of them.
I am actually looking to upgrade my skincare products to something organic… any suggestions out there??
I couldn’t agree more. I have red leather boots my mom bought after a divorce as a gift to herself 30 years ago and they have an amazing patina and look better now (i’m assuming) than when they were new. Also, totally agree about the kitchen goods, after buying a few green pans and having to throw them out after 9-10 months I also think it is more economical to splurge up front for things that will last.
I def agree on the cookware and the boots. I really think cookware does make a difference when cooking and since boots are so expensive I want to make sure they are worth it. I will also take it a step further and say that since I’ve hit my 30’s comfortable boots (and shoes in general) are a diff must. LOL.
~Jane B.
I can definitely agree with this, especially on the skincare. Everything else can be replaced, but you really can’t get a new face!
I completely agree, all of these things are such a great investment. Now as a 25 year old I’m investing in higher quality cooking equipment which have made my cooking sessions so much easier! Great post as always!
This is such a timely post for me! I was brought up with the idea of thought-out, considered purchases with a mix of quality vintage as a basis for most personal items. As a result, most of my wardrobe is thrifted, yet I didn’t mind parting with $2000+ for my MacBook, and I always splurge on perfume.
Right now, I’m saving for a pair of Salvatore Ferragamo Vara’s, as well as a Kitchen Aid. These will be incredibly expensive purchases, however they will last a lifetime.
I would dearly love to hear about both your make-up routine and the products you swear by. Great post, Joy! xx
Love splurging on these essentials now that I’m older and can appreciate them since I do a lot of cooking and baking. Great list!
Another splurge would be a traveling steamer. Hate wrinkles on my clothes on vacation!
Franci
http://www.thefashionpalate.
I think both myself, and Ryan, have always been a little like this… I remember collecting special pieces of cookware and ceramics from a reasonably young age- I think we both got KitchenAid mixers for our 18th’s for example, but we certainly do it more and more now we’re (almost 30! me!, and 32 (today! him))…
We also needed to replace our pans, so since getting married a few months ago, have taken the opportunity to replace our pans with lifetime purchases from le creuset, and they are total game-changers, we’re in love! We actually added two pieces to our collection today.
I do feel less guilt about it now we’re older, and married, but we still get quite a lot of negativity from friends/acquaintances/online people, who I guess just aren’t in that ‘place’ and can’t imagine being able to justify that kind of expense! We always try to buy big items when they’re on offer, or slight seconds, for example – but honestly, it makes sense to us financially to shop this way, and I’m pretty sure most people come round to this way of thinking as they mature 😉
Love your picks here, Joy! Hope you’re all well, xo
being in my 30s seems scary now that i’m only 24, but i like the idea of settling in and buying things that will last…things of quality. that’s something positive about getting older.
I’m 23 and still not able to splurge on a lot of things, but I want those Sperry Top-Sider boots so badly!
Ha! True!
Joy
My father was the one who taught me the lesson “LESS IS MORE”, buy quality over quantity.
It also applies to food items n groceries. Buy ONLY 100% organic and natural, you only live once n can’t buy or get a new healthier body 😉
As a 22 year old, this post was a very handy read. I’m already trying to invest in some more classic wardrobe staples that I could wear throughout my 20s. But I definitely want to invest in good pots and pans when I have my own place–and the income!
I have definitely become more confident splurging on key, high quality pieces as I’ve entered my 30s…handbags and ‘wardrobe classics’ are the big categories for me. I adore the Kaico teapot you’ve featured though…perhaps it will be my next splurge!
I haven’t grown up enough to splurge on kitchen stuff, but I’m also waiting for my wedding registry. 🙂
I definitely agree with the boots (Hunters are perfect!), and I have spent a small fortune on handbags because leather items always last forever. I’ve had some over a decade now and they are still in good condition.
Designer denim is also something I splurge on, because it encourages me to stay the same size!
Lastly, this may be because of my California heritage, but I splurge on eyewear–some nice, high-end sunglasses for some reason alwyas seem worth it. I haven’t lost a pair of my high end sunglasses, but I have lost many throwaway pairs. I believe that if you invest in something, you take better care of it.
I’ve been looking for a recommend eye cream, and I’m curious about the restorsea one. How long have you been using it? Any suggestions? 🙂
I’m 43 and couldn’t agree with you more. I bought my home when I was 26 and was poor for 10 years. I now splurge on skin care, bedding, and boots. You really feel the difference in effectiveness and quality of products. What a great post! It gives me validation to buy those Loeffer Randall boots which I have been salivating over since I first saw your blog.
ditto on the kitchen ware… it’s just better to splurge at the beginning than buying something cheap and then constantly having to replace them!
i mean, a le creuset *is* expensive but that stuff is indestructable.
Please do a makeup post it would be awesome! I’m in my early 20’s and saving for a leather boots, those choices look so pretty! But the brushes I’m trying to invest in good ones one at a time 🙂
We are so close to being 30 and feelin’ this post. We recently decided that quality pots & pans are worth the splurge and on our wish list. Thanks for sharing these. Now we know where to invest our bucks. 🙂
Hi Kate!
Ive been using it for a few months and love it. Ive definitely noticed a difference!
Joy
I agree with the boots. This year will be my year to buy proper leather boots. I am already nervous about spending the cash!
I am a few years away from being comfortable spending money on beauty products!
I love this post! I think you have honed in on three areas that really require a splurge once you get to a certain age. On my list is also quality outerwear and luggage.
amanda
http://thingstoholdandstir.blogspot.com/
Yes, boots! Boots, coats, knives, linen, quality booze if you’re going to drink it, and the best cut of steak you can afford.
I’ve recently accepted this too!
I’m 25 and in the past couple of years I have decided that I deserve good things too. I get better face creams, I’ve got my first Le Creuset (that I’m sure will last at least my life time), I buy better quality clothes and have this past winter bought my first proper winter boots! 🙂
You really end up saving money in the long run.
Love this post, and am looking forward to the make-up one too 🙂
My Le Creuset pans have moved with me from the UK to NYC – and when I head back Down Under they’ll make that trek too. Couldn’t agree more with this post – it’s lifestyle creep that’s completely worth it!
I used to resist pricey skin care but ever since I switched to my Sisleya eye cream, it’s like I’ve regained that bright-eyed look (don’t know about the bushy tail!
Now that I’m moving to a rural part of India, I’ve been stocking up on beauty supplies. Buying in bulk, ouch, that hurts!
Be Ready Bravely
great post! as I’m entering my 20s I’m even starting to think about saving up for investment products!
tr[i]b[e]cca
love this post joy! I’m turning the big three-O this year, thinking I’m gonna need to buy something nice now. And i’m in the same pots and pans boat, need to replace my Target clearance set asap
Such a great topic! Yep, those pots and pans I got five years from my wedding registry are wearing out. Time for an upgrade! Another thing I splurge on these days, haircuts.
another thing to add is good set of dishware. in my 20’s i was all about mix and match plates only because cheap plates would break over time. in our 30’s we were gifted a set of heath ceramic dishware, which are supposed to last for a really long time. i take better care of them and hope to pass them down to my kids one day!
You’re so right about this. I’ve been using more high end skincare and it’s just so much better than what I used before. Makes such a big difference as you get older.
I really love your Loeffler Randall boots. They’re so cute! I think I’ve been splurging more than I should.
As someone who is 31 I completely agree with you. I tend to spend money on nicer kitchen/home items and quality clothes and accessories that I would have NEVER even thought of buying in my early or mid-twenties.
love this post! I hardly ever splurge and then when I need something basic I’m often left scrabbling. I try not to do that so much anymore, if I see a piece of clothing or a pair of shoes that works price and comfort wise then I don’t hesitate.
I just turned 30 and I’m realizing that I want to splurge on better-quality products for our home, so I love this list! Thanks! I agree with all of your suggestions. 🙂
great post! I also noticed once I turned 30 I was thinking more of buying quality items that would last longer… I guess I also feel I know myself better now than I did in my 20’s so I can make better decisions! I’ve been looking for a new eye cream as well so I’ll have to try this one, thanks!
At the ripe old age of, ahem, 37…I have finally learned the value of a good (expensive) lipstick. I went into MAC when I was back in the States and bought 3 on the spot, without flinching. I never used to let myself do things like that but it felt good! x
completely agree with this post! and like others, i’d add handbags to the list. i remember purchasing my first pricey handbag in my mid-20s and almost having a heart attack. at 32, i still have it today (what with a few repairs here and there). and since then i’ve made a few more investment purchase and don’t regret any of them. they’ve all been work horses in my wardrobe! it is a lot of money upfront, but i buy a lot less since i always ask myself if it will last. i hope to use them again one day when i’m out of the diaper bag phase 😛
also, YES to a makeup post! 🙂 i’m so very intrigued by the restorsea line now…i’m actually awaiting a sample. it feels like christmas 😉
I am leaving the 30s so my perspective might be a bit different. I do not quite agree about skincare and/or makeup, the things which seem to work best skincare wise for me are from the pharmacy, have horrible packaging and cost 10-20 euros. I did try all range of prices. Makeup as well, apart from foundation and powder, it´s all over the place. Perfume on the other hand, never found any bargains. Nail polish is never worth the high end prices unless the color itself is worth it.
Yes to cooking pots, and tools in general. Glassware is not worth spending too much money on, it breaks and scratches. And china ditto, though it is worth getting some plain pattern which will exist for ages.
Worth spending money on mattresses, pillows, comforters and bedding in general. But particularly mattresses. And bath towels as well.
Worth spending money on bras that fit well. And thick tights, though not thin tights.
Worth spending money on cold weather or rain gear, though usually not worth it for beach gear.
Poly-leather whatevers, whether bags, shoes, belts are NEVER worth spending any money. Viscose or acrylic or whatever scarfs are never worth spending any money on, they age terribly and look cheap instantly. But scarfs of silk, wool, cashmere, linen, cotton OTOH are worth spending money if you really love it, they will last forever.
The perfect leather jacket that you can wear with anything!
I agree wholeheartedly. There is a point in the life of a woman when you need to stop buying inexpensive things that will need replacing in no time and start investing in good quality items. I especially think that is the case with home items…such as pots and dishes and furniture pieces. I mean you can’t really continue to use the same college hand-me-down pieces…unless they are sentimental pieces and/or vintage pieces. I think that i started doing this in my mid-twenties…but only because I got married pretty young. And yes, I love my Le Creuset pots and I’m still eyeing a Mauviel risotto pan…it’s just so pricey. Cosmetics were the one thing that as soon as I finish College and got my first job I started to splurge on. I think this mainly had to do with my aunt who always insisted that you needed a good eye and day cream. My biggest pep peeve is cheap boots. I really think they can kill and outfit…so best save and splurge on a good pair than have a few cheap pairs…that not only are but also look cheap. Joy, i really enjoyed this post. Thx.
Do you use the Restorsea products? It’s so hard to find unbiased reviews of skincare products online. The ones I’ve been able to find for restorsea have all seemed planted by the company (i.e. the Amazon reviewers who have only ever reviewed Restorsea, and they all reviewed it on the same day, etc…) Then I noticed your links to them were affiliate links (whereas all the other products you linked in this post went directly to the store). There’s nothing wrong with an affiliate link, but I admit it gave me pause that maybe this was another company-perked review. So I just thought I’d ask. If I’m shelling out $150 for face cream, I want to make sure it’s legit! Thanks!
Hi Lindsay,
Yes, I use them! I rarely blog about beauty products, but when I do its only for things Ive actually used since I cant really say anything about it being good or not unless Ive tried them. I use them and I love it. I can only speak from personal experience, but Ive definitely noticed a difference in my skin.
As for the affiliate links, I have the option to use them for a variety of products when it makes sense for a post. I dont post items just because of affiliate links but only when its something Im already going to post and fits the content. I had some other affiliate links on that post, too, but those were all to items I have and own and can actually stand by.
Hope that helps!
Joy
We’re the same age! I love your list and totally agree! Though judging by my history of “splurges”, I must have been mentally 30 for a long time! Skin care has been a splurge MUST since ~25! I always believe “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of gold!” And brushes? Let me tell you I still have and use the very first “good” MAC brush I got in my early 20s! I’d add good make-up, especially foundation products to the splurge list too!
Boots are definitely one of the first things every woman should invest in for all the years a good pair can last! In the same vein, I think of handbags and watches.
Ah… COOKWARE. Can I say I wanted to swoon over some of your picks?! Love that white Le Creuset braiser! Warning – good, quality cookware (and knives) are totally addicting and it is impossible to go back to the cheapo stuff after you’ve tried the good stuff!
I definitely feel less guilty about splurging as I get older! I tend to splurge on hair care, skin care, and winter jackets (I’m Canadian).
What a great list! And I couldn’t agree with you more – splurging on some things is definitely worth it! And what great finds – my favorite is boots #12!
Great advice! There is a quote by Vivienne Westwood, “By less, choose well.”
*buy, typos drive me nuts. 😉
I wouldn’t bother splurging on Hunter boots. They are now made in China instead of in the UK and the quality is abysmal. Holes develop in the bottom very quickly. Save your money.
I liked Skincare & beauty of it is because I was about 40+ I also have been used in the same way as you write it, it’s great.