In 2026, I want to take a more intentional approach to shopping. To that end, I am starting a ‘shopping list’; If it’s on the list, I will work it into my budget while watching out for sales. My goal is for this to help curb my impulse buying habits. Plus, this will push me to focus on quality pieces to cultivate a true wardrobe as opposed to buying just to have more.
My philosophy is simple: If it stays on the list and I still want to buy it after weeks/months, then I know I will use it and enjoy it. I have noticed that the items I’ve bought more on a whim or simply because they’re on sale are the ones that I tend not to gravitate towards regularly. I essentially bought them because they were a deal and not because I loved them. If I get to an item on the list that doesn’t excite me or that I no longer want, off the list it goes and will have saved myself that purchase. In just drafting this, pieces have already come off the list and been replaced with something new because I didn’t really need or want them!
Note: Everything listed here is just a ‘want’, not a ‘need’. The purchases mentioned are fun extras in life.
Starting off strong with a little Chanel. Like most Chanel pieces, this is a bit of a novelty item more than one with true ‘use’. It is a compact with two mirrors inside. It is beautiful and would be something I would use mostly while traveling.
Tiffany’s Love Necklace (Paloma’s Graffiti)
The Tiffany’s necklaces I have are the two that I reach for the most. Each is a cursive letter (one ‘B’ and one ‘L’) in sterling silver on a delicate chain. They’re the perfect, easy piece to throw on just about any outfit. This one is in keeping with that ease and beauty.
Fossil Raquel Three-Hand Date Stainless Steel Watch
This one is available through Fossil’s site, but I also just noticed it on Nordstrom’s, as well. I already have a few gift cards that I may just save up for this piece. This style is as close to the Cartier Tank watch as I’ve seen (a bit bigger), which is the look I’m after.
Ralph Lauren A Way of Living Book
If you know me well, you know I have a great affinity for fashion coffee table books. This Ralph Lauren book is one I have been coveting since reading the more recently published ‘Ralph Lauren In His Own Fashion’, which is a stunning tome. Obviously, the photos are an inspiration, but so is his story. I’m excited to get my hands on a copy of this one!
I get so much wear out of my white Adidas Superstars. I love the look with a dress or pair of jeans. However, the toe of the pair I have holds dirt and is tough to clean due to the ridges in it. I’m on the lookout for a pair that is comfortable like my Superstars but will be easier to maintain and clean.
Hermes Belt
Specifically, the Ancre belt buckle & reversible leather strap size 32mm in Macassar/Vert Amande…
Talk about a souvenir. This is a big ‘maybe’ item for me just given the price tag. I don’t wear a ton of belts, so I need to spend some time determining if a belt is something I would even want to invest in to this extent. An Hermes piece would be an incredible piece to add to my wardrobe, and of course I would make that purchase in Paris.
I am a true sucker for a notebook. I have many of them around my office. I do use them quite a bit, but this one feels more elevated. This would be more of a work piece that I travel with on business trips.
Vintage Cartier-Inspired Bangle Watch in Silver
I would love to find this vintage piece out and about while shopping, especially when in Paris. It would be a beautiful momento of that trip, but in the event I don’t find it, I have found a few vintage-inspired options that are affordable.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick and Liner in ‘Walk of No Shame’
Just a little something, but Charlotte Tilbury Lipsticks have been my go-to now for a while. The colors are gorgeous; they go on easily and don’t smudge all over throughout the day. I usually pack at least two with me when traveling, but I only have shades of pink. I want to try out a more red tone this time around. Luckily, a gift card from Christmas may come in handy for this purchase sooner than later.
UPDATE: Glad I ran into Ulta! This shade was more a dark pink than the website appeared, so I went with a true red called American Doll from Anastasia Beverly Hills.
I’m on the hunt for vintage Ralph Lauren any time I’m out shopping, but I would specifically like to find either a blue or a chambray button-up. I’ve been able to find a classic white as well as a few beautiful dresses (all vintage) along with some new pieces, too.
Let me know if you try out this approach in your own shopping!
