My top 21 purchases of 2021

I know that there's a perception that bloggers never purchase any products themselves, but this simply isn't true. I would estimate that 75-80% of the products I feature on the blog are those that I have bought myself. So, whilst I have already shared some of my favourite products of 2021 with you here, here and here, today I'm focusing solely on products that I bought myself, and I thought I'd round it off to a nice 21 for the year that was in it! If I have previously blogged about the items, I'll leave links to the reviews.

Beauty:

Dior Forever Natural Nude Foundation: I don't buy a lot of Dior Beauty, but I love their foundations and highlighters. For some reason, this foundation seems to be reformulated almost yearly, but this one is still available. It has medium coverage, with a natural skin-like finish, and lasts for hours on the skin without budging. Full review here.

Charlotte Tilbury Super Nudes Collection: It's rare that I skip buying something from any of Charlotte's collections, but this one was so up my street, that I bought pretty much everything! Nude lips are my go-to, and I love the powder/cheek products from the brand, so I just couldn't resist buying so much! Full review here.

By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra Concealer: I've always enjoyed Touche Éclat clicky-pen type under eye brightener/concealers, but this takes it to the next level, given how hydrating it is. It's comprised of 87% skincare ingredients, gives medium coverage and an illuminating finish - perfect for tired eyes. Full review here. Use LYMIN to save 20% on Look Fantastic.

Kérastase Blond Absolu Range: Since getting my hair balayaged, I'm making a big effort to protect it and also to prevent it from becoming too warm or brassy. I interchange these products with Olaplex hair care, to maintain the condition of my hair, but I'd highly recommend trying this range if you have blonde hair, as you will find that your colour lasts longer, but without being left with a purple tinge. Review here.

L'Oreal Steampod: I've been using heated tools on my hair for years (always with a heat protector), but this product has been on my wishlist ever since a hairdresser told me that she would prefer to use this than get her hair washed & blowdried by somebody else. It gives the hair a salon finish, but without the damage usually associated with straighteners, wands etc. Totally worth the money. Full review here.

Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm: If you're a regular reader of my blog, you will know that I love cleansing balms and this was one of the most raved about skincare products of 2021, so I *had* to buy it! It is totally worth the hype - a soft, nourishing balm that literally melts away all makeup without any tugging on the skin and leaves it feeling so comfortable. Review here.

Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-in-One Face Oil: I actually finished quite a few oils last year and was very tempted to repurchase some of my favourites, however I've enjoyed everything I've tried from this brand and thought I'd give it a go and I'm glad I did. It contains a blend of 16 oils, which increase the skin's elasticity and plumpness. I find that I don't need to use a lot of this to get the desired, nourished result that I want. It was particularly helpful when I went in a little too hard with retinol, and quickly helped to restore my skin's barrier function. 

Fenty Skin Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream: This really is the ultimate in body butters, yet it absorbs so quickly, so you don't have to spend ages massaging it in, or waiting for it to dry before getting dressed. The whipped cream combines essential oils, butters, glycerin and antioxidants, to leave skin feeling nourished and supple, but also looking glossy. Divine!

Jo Malone Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne: I love how feminine. this fragrance is, without being sweet. It's a light, delicate and fresh scent, which I like to wear in Spring or even sunny Autumn days, when I want something clean, not overpowering, yet still detectable on the skin.

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Marriage Eau De Parfum: This is a classic fragrance, which most people are familiar with at this stage. It's both fruity and floral, rich and decadent. Very feminine and can be worn both day and night, and most people will guess which fragrance you're wearing! This Marriage bottle was irresistible to me, as I love the lace detailing.

Byredo fragrances: I can't pick just one fragrance, but I love this brand in general - everything from the monogram aesthetic, to the unique blend of notes, which create a beautiful array of fragrances.

Fashion/accessories:

Nicholas Kirkwood Casati Leather Chelsea Boots: I've pretty much worn these all Autumn and Winter so far, because they are comfortable and practical, yet the pearl detail adds something extra, not just to the boots, but even to a plain, all black outfit. I got them at a bargain price too, so it's always worth using Karmannow, which will automatically alert you when your wishlist items go on sale, and will automatically check for discounts at checkout. Not sponsored, I just find it brilliant!

Veja Recife Leather Trainers: I have three pairs of Veja trainers and have even bought them for my husband, because they are just so comfortable. When I'm feeling extra lazy, I will use the pairs with velcro straps instead of tying my laces, and they really are liking walking on air. Currently reduced on Matches Fashion.

Gucci Atlana Espadrille Wedge Sandal with Double G:I have always loved wedge sandals/boots, whether they are in fashion or not, and I love that the ankle straps are pretty minimal on these, which I find more flattering than chunky straps. They aren't too high and they go with pretty much everything I wear in summer (roll on the warmer months!).

Saint Laurent Lou Lou Bag: I just adore this bag. I love black and gold together, I also love that it can be worn crossbody, as a shoulder bag, or as a double chain option. It's very roomy, great quality leather, and any little scratches can be buffed away. I find Saint Laurent bags to be excellent quality for the price (in comparison to Chanel etc).

Givenchy Antigona Blue: I have a larger version of this bag, in smooth black leather, and love it, so when I saw this size last summer, reduced in a sale, I had to buy it. I had an occasion coming up and this would match my dress perfectly (it didn't happen in the end, due to restrictions), so it felt like the perfect excuse to buy it. This is a grained leather, and, although smaller than my original, it's still very roomy as the zip opening is quite wide. I don't have any other blue bags in my collection, so I was delighted to add this (even better when it was pretty much half price).

Relaxez-Vous Lounge Wear: I didn't get into the whole loungewear trend during lockdown, so I see these as pyjamas more than anything, but they are items that you could put on when you get in from work and "lounge" in! I just love how soft the fabric is in these - I'm not a fan of fleece pyjamas, as I like my skin to be able to breathe and fleece pjs and a temperature = itchy skin! I wear these with a secret support vest underneath, which is perfect for bedtime and I look semi-presentable with the sweatshirt-type top in the evenings, or on sick days. M&S UK/Ireland.

Sundries:

Slip Silk Large Scrunchies: I had some of the small scrunchies previously, but I prefer the large ones. I can tie my hair up, without damaging it & they're ideal if you want to put your hair in a pineapple at bedtime. It goes without saying that I use silk pillowcases too - they've made a big difference to the condition of my hair and also, with preventing hair loss. Use the code LYMIN to save 20%.

Boy Smells Italian Kush Candle: I absolutely LOVE candles (see post here), so when this brand arrived at Cult Beauty last year, I couldn't wait to get my hands on at least one (and now I want them all). The scent fills the air before it's even lit, and then I find that it isn't overpowering when lit, but it fills the room and the scent combinations are beautiful!

Diptyque Christmas candles: I love that the brand switched things up this year, introducing a variation on it's usual scents (except Sapin, which is a classic!). The jars are so beautiful and whilst I've finished one, I'm still using Flocon, which is a blend of musk and mimosa - a soft, subtle, relaxing scent combination.

Clever Fox Premium Planner PRO: I love planners and like to switch them up, until I find (or create) my perfect one. I like that this has a vision board section, monthly spreads, monthly reviews, weekly spreads, 3 month plans, and more. It definitely seems like it's easy to keep on top of everything in this planner, as there's space for thoughts/doodling, finances, reflection, as well as regular planning. PLUS, it lasts for 12 months - it bugs me when planners only cover 6 months, but expect you to write a 5 year plan at the start!

I think I did pretty well to narrow it down to 21 items, although I am trying to focus more on quality, rather than quantity, when it comes to shopping these days. I could probably do better, but compared to say, five years ago, I'm doing really well! I'd love to hear which purchases stand out to you from 2021?

Thanks for reading!

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All products are bought by me, unless otherwise stated. Anything marked with a * has been kindly gifted, without obligation. I don't do sponsored posts. Opinion is always my own. Affiliate links may be used.