We’ve had our fair share of regretful purchases (hello tiny car vacuum), but that’s a story for another day. This is a curated, exclusive list of not-exactly-fancy fancy things we’ve really come to love. The kind of small upgrades that somehow make you feel like you’ve got your life together.
Great for treating yourself or a fellow human. Because being responsible with your money doesn’t mean you have to go without!
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Level 1 – Under $30 Wins
Small things that upgrade your life with “Wait, why didn’t I do this sooner?” energy.
- Ultra-functional light bulbs: We’ve come a long way from overpriced Hue bulbs — you can now ditch the light switch and change the mood with your phone for under $20. We like Govee bulbs, partially because they have a huge range of different lights and gadgets. It’s miles ahead of those college LED strips.
- Upgrade your knobs: This is an instant upgrade to bathrooms, kitchens, TV stands, anything with a handle. Grab a couple for a few bucks each at your local hardware store and swap them out with just a screwdriver. It’s a luxury touch that will bring you joy every day.
- Master your car organization: These collapsible organizers are wildly useful. for groceries, runaway bottles of wine, rogue apples,or even your car emergency kit! It’s the kind of thing that makes you feel weirdly competent.
- A simple pot of flowers: Stick a blooming plant by your door and you’ll smile every time you come home. Pre-potted options from Lowe’s or Home Depot make it easy — just water it when it starts looking thirsty.
- A worthy chalice: Hydration feels more intentional when it’s from a cup you love. We’re a big fan of those smaller Yeti cups, but seriously there are a million dupes out there. Find what speaks to you.
- Pleasant aromas: A signature scent can change your whole space. We like World Market for affordable, grown-up candles and sprays that don’t smell like a college party.
Level 2 – Big Energy, Small Footprint
Functional flexes that make your space (and life) feel way more expensive than it is.
- Doorbell cam: Not an out-of-reach luxury, you can get the Blink doorbell for under $60. It will calm your is-my-delivery-here-yet anxiety and save a trip up and down the stairs when the solicitors come knocking. Renters: look for models that mount over your peephole or use adhesive backing.
- Custom art, your way: This is one of our favorite fancy hacks. Take a photo you love (yes, even one from your camera roll), print it big through Mpix or Shutterfly, and grab a matted frame from Art to Frames or Target. Boom. You’re an art collector now. Nothing print worthy? Head out on a quick photoshoot: graffiti shots, nature close-ups, or inspiring vistas work well.
- Hop on the Air fryer train: Air fryers live up to the hype. They’re a great way to get crispy, closer-to-chef-made food (one of our favorite cooking hacks!) You can size it according to your household, we’re a fan of the petite models but you can go all the way up to a double-sized kitchen powerhouse.
- Bidets (IYKYK): With a real renaissance during the pandemic-era TP shortages, this is another bandwagon worth hopping on. You’ll have to do a minor installation, but for around $30 your life will never be the same. And it’s basically free if you consider the paper savings.
- Blend smarter, not harder: We love the idea of a Vitamix, but for real-life kitchens? An immersion blender is magic, and for our money a much better purchase. Frequently seen on Food Network, you can blend a pot of creamy soup right in the pot. So much better than lugging out (and cleaning) an entire blender.
Level 3 – Wow, Who Is She?
These scream “I pay bills and romanticize my life.” And honestly? You deserve that.
- Unlimited ice-cold beverages: This is the item that inspired the whole list. Whether it’s a built-in fridge dispenser or a countertop ice maker, having perfect ice on demand just feels… elevated. (What shape do you crave? Crushed? Pebble? Choose your path.)
- Soft things: Anything you’re touching constantly is worth making a little extra fancy. Replace those worn out towels and sheets. It’s also a great way to impress your guests! A true life-changing purchase is a new pillow – as fussy sleepers we’re a fan of the Pillow Cube and Purple Freeform but find your fit. Did you know you’re supposed to replace your pillow every 1-2 years? Shocking!
- Upgrade your sound: We’ve cycled through enough disappointing Bluetooth speakers to say: Sonos is worth it. Great sound, voice control, and connected to every music service out there. If movies are more your thing, even simple soundbars make a huge upgrade to the tinny, TV speakers. Host a watch party. You’re the fancy friend now.
Being a functional human doesn’t mean you can’t feel a little bit fancy.
It’s not luxury but the best “pillow” I’ve ever used was a scrunched up old comforter. Always a cold section to be found somewhere and I can mash it into whatever shape for the position of my head.