We’re taking a stroll down memory lane and sharing a few of our favorite things from 2023. These are tried and true – best of the best – fashion, beauty and decor finds we use all the time (and would buy again!). Some you’ve seen on the blog and some are new. All are worth a second look, especially if you are looking for a last minute gift.
Because friends share the good stuff, add your favorites in the comments. We’re looking to try new things in 2024!
Looking for more ideas? Take a peek at last year’s favorites. And, don’t miss the Best of 2023 Reader Favorites and the Top Posts from 2023, coming soon.
Favorite Walk and Talk Gear
CHRISTA : It’s always a process to find sneakers. Most of them are great for shorter walks but don’t stand the test of miles every day. But when my daughter tried these On CloudMonster sneakers for a Disney trip and raved about them, I knew I needed to try them. And she was right – #daughterssharethegoodstuff! They kept her feet comfortable for four days of Disney parks (20,000+ steps a day), and they are also great for Walk & Talks. They did take a few walks to break them in, but after that they’re perfect. Pro tip: If you have wider feet, try the men’s version. Shown in the Undyed White / Aurora color.
MEGAN : Walking and outdoor workouts take a toll on my feet. After trying a zillion different sneakers I’ve settled on my current favorite, the Brooks Glycerin. I love them so much I asked for a second pair in a different colorway for Christmas.
Favorite Clothing Purchase
CHRISTA : This year, black pants are the winner for me! I’ve come across three pairs that I absolutely adore. My Wit & Wisdom pants, #1 on my list, are definitely a closet essential. They simplify the process of getting ready for any occasion, and work with all my favorite tops. I’ve recently discovered these flattering corduroy pants from Kut from the Kloth, that have a luxurious velvet feel. And I’ve also embraced the versatility of the wide-leg Wit & Wisdom trousers for a dressier look.
MEGAN : This year lots of our favorite brands (finally) started making PETITE JEANS! These Mini Mother Insider jeans are my favorite clothing purchase this year. (For reference I’m 5’1.)
Favorite Nail Polish
CHRISTA : I’ve taken a break from nail polish. Gel was ruining my nails (because after a month or two of manicures I start picking it). So no polish recommendation from me right now, but these $5 KISS imPress press-on nails are the best alternative. They last about 2 weeks (if you don’t pick!). Pro tip: go to the salon for a no polish manicure to get your nails shaped and cuticles trimmed, and then add these nails at home.
MEGAN : Do you even have to ask? The Londontown Nail Illuminating/Concealer in ALL THE COLORS! Milky and Bubble are my two favorites.
Favorite Lipstick
CHRISTA : For lips, I am always recommending the tarte maracuja lip products! Most recently, I was gifted the maracuja shift – it’s like “a mood ring for your lips!” The plumping gloss adjusts to your pH for your perfect shade of pink. (And, hello!!!!!!! They just introduced the maracuja juicy shimmer glass lip plump!)
MEGAN : The Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Balm is my favorite lip product of the year, and I tried A LOT of products. Light color, heavy in moisture, the Hourglass Balm is a winner for everyday. And the long thin gold tube has a nice weight to it, so pretty it looks like jewelry. My color is “slip”.
Favorite Travel Gear (and Destination)
CHRISTA : If Mary Poppins needed a travel bag, this CALPAK Luka would be her pick, because this thing holds a ton! And, best part, it fits under the seat on the plane. Be sure to check it out, and gift it to all your travel BFFs! If you are looking for a travel destination in 2024, plan a vacation to sunny Sea Island in Georgia for the ultimate in Southern hospitality.
MEGAN : CALPAK makes the best travel cosmetics bag. Two sides that are clear make everything easy to access (and see!), if you are a frequent flyer this bag will make your life so much easier. I’ve gifted it to several friends — that’s how much I love mine. Pro tip: Get the small or medium, the large is just too big.
Favorite Beauty Product
CHRISTA : I have used the Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Oil-Free Foundation Primer regularly under my foundation or CC cream for years. It give a nice smooth layer for applying makeup. When you’ve used a product that long, it must be a favorite!
MEGAN : Maya Chia The Super Blend — solid serum is a late entry this year and by far my favorite beauty product. I’ve been using it consistently for almost a month and my skin is much more hydrated, better texture (fewer fine lines!) and dare I say plump? (In a good way of course.) This is a little pricey for me at $105, but the results are worth it. Repurchase for sure.
Favorite Shoes
CHRISTA : While my clear SCHUTZ Victorie sandals remain a favorite from last year, I opted for a less obvious choice for this post. Another sandal that has become a constant in my wardrobe is the OOFOS OOlala recovery sandals. These are a must-have for anyone experiencing foot pain, heel pain, or plantar fasciitis. My friend Terry recommended them to me a few years ago, and I’ve been wearing them ever since. I do recommend replacing them annually because they tend to lose some support over time. Recently, I also embraced and adore the OOFOS OOcozie low shoes for winter – featuring the same sole but providing more coverage with an extra soft fleece.
MEGAN :As a self proclaimed clog girl, I knew as soon as I saw these Chloe clogs they were going to be an essential part of my fall look. Truthfully they were a little stiff at first but they’re broken in nicely now. Buying these early in the season (I purchased them in August) has given me lots of time to wear them as a transition piece (and significantly lowering the cost-per-wear) through the fall and now I’m wearing them with wool socks!
Favorite Song
CHRISTA : Lewis Capaldi’s concert in April was great! My daughter and I were so lucky to see him just a couple of months before he canceled his tour for health issues. Learn more about his struggles with mental health and Tourrette’s in his Netflix documentary, How I’m Feeling Now. And let’s just say, bravo to his managers and parents for recognizing when he needed help and stepping in to make sure he go it. And bravo to Lewis for sharing his story, a story that will hopefully help so many young people who might be struggling. Can’t wait for his return to the stage, hopefully someday soon.
MEGAN : On my bucket list, see Tyler Childers live. Preferably at Red Rocks.
Favorite Recipe
CHRISTA : I don’t like to cook, but I do have a cake recipe that is AMAZING! Yes, shocker, I baked a cake…from scratch…and everyone loved it! Give this Dr. Pepper Texas sheet cake a try. I made a Texas sheet cake because it reminds me of summer, when my mom would make them to bring to backyard get togethers. This cake was so light and moist and totally decadent and delicious! And it’s EASY! Make this cake, friends!
MEGAN : Butter chicken in the crock pot was a huge hit with you guys AND at my house this year. But my favorite, is the day after. Reheat the leftovers on the stove top, add four eggs, cover and cook on medium heat for six-eight minutes (depending on how “done” you like your eggs). Chef’s kiss good!
Favorite Book and/or Audio Book
CHRISTA’S PICK
MEGAN’S PICK
Favorite Amazon Purchase
CHRISTA : Gift giving must be my love language, because I love everything about gifting, including the pretty packaging. So naturally having a rainbow assortment of ribbon to pick from makes my heart happy when I’m wrapping a present. (You all must agree, too, because this ribbon was very popular after we shared it for our flower arranging party.) I keep an assortment of clear gift bags on hand, and these ribbons turn them into the cutest little gifts.
MEGAN : This one is easy, the Hanes sweatshirt gives the most bang for the buck at $10 and she looks like a million.
Favorite Etsy Shops
CHRISTA : I LOVE all things paper – cards, notepads, tags, you name it. I’ve purchased several gifts and a few things for myself from these two Etsy shops: Joy Creative Shop and Modern Pink Paper. These personalized gift tags were a hit with all of you when I shared them in June. This notepad is a fun little gift – customize it with their favorite places to shop. And these notecards are on my Christmas wish list because I recently used the last one. (Hint hint!)
MEGAN : Rebecca has created my dream Etsy shop — Finding Hope and Joy. If you are looking for a monogrammed gift, Rebecca has you covered. She is quick to respond and ship, makes great suggestions and does all the work (herself!) in Connecticut. Highly recommend.
Pro tip: Bookmark these Etsy sites, ladies, because they are perfect for all your gift giving needs!
Favorite Haircare
CHRISTA : I have used the Kristin Ess volumizing mousse for years and continue to recommend it to all my friends with fine hair. I’ve recently added the working texture spray (love it after I style my hair) and the dry shampoo (every girl needs a good dry shampoo!). I’m clearly a fan of the Kirstin Ess products! I’ve also used this shampoo and conditioner on a recent trip (purchased it at Target when I forgot mine) and can definitely recommend those, too!
MEGAN : Color WOW One-Minute Transformation is my go to hair product. If you have frizzy hair, lots of fly-a-ways or you just like your hair to be smooth, straight and shiny this is your new BFF. I used to be a WOW Dreamcoat junkie — but this has replaced that. It has three types of heat protectant that helps keep your hair healthy and smooth if you blow dry/flat iron/curling iron etc. The directions say use on dry hair, but I but a dime sized amount in my hair when it’s WET — then blow it dry.
Favorite Show/Movie
CHRISTA : Of all the MANY shows I’ve watched this year, I am most excited for the next season of FROM. I don’t want to give away anything that I shouldn’t so here’s what’s it’s about from Prime Video: “FROM unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter. As the unwilling residents search for a way out, they must also survive the threats of the forest including the terrifying creatures that come out at night.” This show was everything I like to watch in a series! Hurry up, Season 3!!!
MEGAN : I’m too ashamed to tell you all that my favorite show this year was The Vampire Diaries so let’s just call that guilty pleasure a close second. My favorite movie was The Holdovers — seen in the theater, old school style. Catch it on streaming this holiday season.
When you’re looking for something new to watch, you can find all of our recommendations on IG (#SaFWhatWeWatch) or our Pinterest board.
Favorite Home Decor
CHRISTA : These pillow covers were a great find for me! Our “acts like a puppy” dog Josie likes to nibble on the zippers (and then ultimately destroy the cover!), so at $13 each, I can afford to replace them. Plus, they look much more expensive than they really are! Sold in sets of two for $26, they come in 20 colors and five sizes. I have the 24″ pillows on the couch for watching TV, and I got these 25″ inserts.
MEGAN : California Design Den 600 thread count sheets are my favorite home decor item. And not just because I love to climb into a big comfy bed at the end of the day. I’ve had Frette, Yves Delorme … lots of $$$$ fancy sheets and these rank right up there. Under $100 for a four piece king set. Even my husband asks, “Where are the good sheets?” when they are in the wash.
SHOP CHRISTA’S FAVORITES
SHOP MEGAN’S FAVORITES
Don’t miss our other posts to wrap up 2023:
We love to try new things (stating the obvious, right?)! Share a few of your favorite finds from 2023 in the comments — who knows, they may become our favorite in 2024! And we’d love to hear what your favorite part of Style Among Friends has been this year — the gift guides, the outfit selfies, the randomness of the walk and talk? What’s been your fav? Be sure to let us know! xo, Megan and Christa
Have you been enjoying Style Among Friends each week? Tell all your friends – because #friendssharethegoodstuff! If you’d like to follow along with us for more style, decor, recipes and walks, you can find us @styleamongfriends on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. And you can shop our Instagram here. We may earn from purchases made through CollectiveVoice affiliate links in this post at no additional cost to you — thank you for supporting our blog.
Comments
Comments are closed.