Influencer-Favorite Brands I've Tried, Part 1
What I've tested, how I liked it (or didn't), and whether it's worth it
I’ve been #influenced by a great many people over the years, though I am proud to say I never bought a J. Crew bubble necklace! That being said, I’ve given into temptation and tested out products offered to me for this blog, and I’ve enjoyed determining whether or not a piece or brand is actually that good, or it’s just not (or just not for me).
In this series, I’m delving into influencer-favorite brands I’ve been tempted to try, what I’ve tried from each brand, and what I really think. As the holidays approach, I hope you find this helpful!
Five Brands I Loved
I’ve been an Ann Mashburn fan since basically day one (actually, about three months after the brand launched). During this time, I’ve slowly built up a great collection of pieces, from my favorite flannel trousers to incredible cashmere to the pieces that make me feel like my best self.
All of the pieces I own are beautifully made and I know that when I invest in something from Ann Mashburn, it will really last a lifetime.
Current favorites: This sweater dress, this sweater, and a made-to-order shirt.
Eyeing: This jacket, this cardigan, and these shoes.
One of my D.C. housemates, Taylor, was absolutely in love with everything Rifle Paper Co. and she quickly got me hooked. I’ve always been a fan of folk art, and Rifle Paper Co.’s designs feel like a modern take on naïve art. Their Christmas designs are always especially good, and we’ve been so enraptured by their Nutcracker line this year that I’ve broken my rule of no Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving to set out our new placemats (c/o)… which also gave me the excuse to buy my favorite holiday snack from Whole Foods as well! I’ve been delighted to work with Rifle Paper Co. this fall and I’m excited to share that they’ve offered us 25% off your purchase using this link and the code FEWERBETTER25!
Current favorites: These placemats, this ultimate gift-wrap bundle, this candle.
Eyeing: This sleep travel set, these playing cards (great stocking stuffers!)
I am a sucker for matched pajama sets (blame my predilection for reading English novels) and Petite Plume makes incredible old-fashioned ones that are chic and elegant at the same time as being incredibly comfortable. I wear mine just about every night in cold months and it’s hard to change into real clothes in the morning! I ask for a new pair every year and I have quite the collection from cotton to warm flannel. This pair is my favorite and makes me feel like Elizabeth James. (The site is currently 25% off with BLACKFRIDAY!)
Current favorites: This set, always.
Eyeing: This silk robe.
My friend Jen RAVES about Sold Out NYC and I can’t tell you how often I’ve loaded my cart with her recommendations but haven’t checked out. Fortunately the brand reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in trying a few of their products—obviously I jumped on this opportunity! I picked out their long-sleeved tees and I have to say I’m really impressed. I always wear a tee under my sweaters and so I’m constantly washing the tees I have. These have held up SO well to being washed at least six times each—they still look new. I love the fit and the thickness of the cotton, which is substantial without being stiff or uncomfortable. 10/10 recommend—plus a ton of their bestsellers are 25% off with this link, now through December 3rd.
Current favorites: the long-sleeved tees.
Eyeing: the signature crew in cream.
Everyone and their mother raves about Chappywrap, but when campaigns are sponsored, how do you know if the hype is real? The brand reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in trying a blanket and I figured I’d settle the debate (at least my internal one)—is the blanket worth the hype? I have to say the answer is YES. The blanket is as large as my go-to Hudson’s Bay wool blanket, but is infinitely lighter (my wool blanket weighs about 25 pounds) and it’s WASHABLE. (This is a feature I didn’t appreciate enough pre-children). It’s incredibly cozy and we’ve had it on our sofa since it arrived. I’m ordering a couple for friends this Christmas.
Current favorites: the Winter Wonderland blanket.
Eyeing: the biggest possible size they offer!
And One I Didn’t…
One brand I tried that really didn’t work for me.
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