I’m not exactly sure where my taste for little luxuries came from, but I’m pretty sure it had something to do with my upbringing.
It’s not that I grew up in the lap of luxury. Quite the contrary. I grew up in a house where every buying decision was based on spending the least amount of money possible. My mom believed in saving for big things, but when it came to everyday items, we always got the brand no one ever heard of.
And not because it was an up and coming artisan brand either!
Little Luxuries
Just once I wished we could get the brand that wasn’t no fills! The one with the pretty packaging, lovely scent, and refined presentation.
This experience made a lasting impression on me, and when I began making my own money, I immediately rebelled against this way of living. I quickly learned the pleasure of investing in simple luxuries to raise the quality of day to day life.
This is not to say you should spend recklessly or get yourself into debt. I’m talking about very small things and of course everyone needs to work within their own budget. But how much more delightful is life when you splurge on something you can easily afford, but just happens to cost more than the entry level version? Some people are averse to this notion, but I’m a huge proponent. Get the Chanel nail polish! It really is better quality, lasts longer and has a unique and exceptional palette of colors. And while it’s more than double the drugstore brand, it’s not a lot of money. This is what I mean by little luxuries. Top of the line items that are not out of reach. Maybe you’re not going out and buying a Ferrari, but there’s no reason you can’t indulge in some low level privilege.
I decided years ago I’d rather buy one high quality item and live with fewer pieces, than buy lots of cheap items that I didn’t really love.
This is the same approach I take with little luxuries in my every day life. A few big ticket sacrifices allow for more small pleasures, so let’s look at 10 sweet indulgences that will add joy to your daily life.
1. Flowers
Ok, you all know I love flowers but did you know I started buying flowers when I was at my very first job? I used to stop at the street market every Monday and bring a small bouquet of flowers to my desk every week. This brightened my outlook at work and I would bring lunch from home twice a week to free up money in my budget to pay for the indulgence.
All these years later, one of my favorite gift ideas (perhaps to yourself?!) is a flower subscription, a service that delivers fresh flowers to your door.
You can usually choose how often to receive your flowers and the packaging is designed to ensure your flowers are fresh and long lasting. They sure last a whole lot longer than those street market flowers I bought years ago!
2. Pretty note cards
In this digital age, it’s such a treat to get a hand written note. At the very least, I still believe in hand written thank you notes and I keep a collection of varied note cards on hand at all times. I pick them up whenever I see them and I’m completely charmed by the floral imagery.
And here’s a funny quirk about me – I never use the last one in the package because I can’t bear to part with them!
3. Vintage English teacups
This one is an absolute favorite of mine! I’ve been collecting teacups for years and I really can’t say why they enchant me so much, but it’s so much more pleasurable to drink tea from a beautiful cup than from that football mug hubby brought home from the ballpark.
4. Body scrubs and lotions
It doesn’t really matter which you choose, as long as it’s something that utterly delights you. I enjoy trying new ones and often I’m influenced by the texture and scent, but I’m also a sucker for pretty packaging. Throw in a French name and I’m hooked!
5. Perfumed soaps
In the same vein as candles and lotions, lovely French soaps are an exceptional treat. Extra points is they are carved with pretty flowers, these are gardenia scented and give the powder room a wonderful scent.
6. Cut crystal lidded jar
I’m fascinated with finding gorgeous containers for daily used items, to elevate my everyday routines to something special. How pretty the soaps look in this stunning jar, easy to see, yet covered to keep fresh.
7. Little style books
I enjoy sweet little books that offer inspiration and lifestyle advice, whether it be etiquette tips or fashion and decor tricks. Lighthearted reading, often with a French theme are titles I love to keep around my home. This one is “The Gospel According to Coco Chanel”.
8. Aromatic candles
I typically love anything that pleases the 5 senses and wonderful smelling candles fit right in with that goal. All the better if they come in a beautiful glass container that can be re-used. In summer I love lavender, but I have many other favorites and I love to light them on ordinary days to add a little lift to my spirits.
9. Artisan foods & oils
A few years ago I was gifted with these Carter & Cavero olive oils and I fell in love right away. I’ve since added flavors to my growing collection and they make a simple dinner all the more extraordinary. I also like artisan salts and other specialty items.
10. Scented hand wash
I keep a lovely hand wash by my kitchen sink and I can’t tell you how much nicer it is than grocery dish wash liquid. Yes, I still keep some of that stuff under the sink, but when I come home from a day out, the first thing I do is wash my hands and bask in this heady aroma.The list could really go on forever, and I’ve just selected some examples to show you how these little luxuries can add a touch of the exceptional to your ordinary routines.
Here are some more ideas to elevate your daily life:
- Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea in the morning.
- Take a few minutes to meditate or practice deep breathing for relaxation.
- Indulge in a piece of high-quality dark chocolate as a treat.
- Treat yourself to a warm bubble bath with scented candles.
- Listen to your favorite music or podcast while commuting or doing chores.
- Spritz a delightful fragrance on yourself to feel refreshed throughout the day.
- Create a cozy reading nook with soft blankets and cushions.
- Write down three things you’re grateful for each day in a gratitude journal.
- Invest in luxurious bedding or pillows for a better night’s sleep.
- Take a leisurely walk outdoors and appreciate nature’s beauty.
- Savor a delicious piece of fruit or a decadent dessert after a meal.
- Surround yourself with plants to bring life to your space.
- Set aside time for a hobby or creative activity that brings you joy.
- Pamper your skin with a mini facial or relaxing skincare routine.
- Treat yourself to a new book or magazine to get lost in a captivating story.
- Practice gentle stretching or yoga to rejuvenate your body and mind.
- Wear your favorite outfit or accessories to boost your confidence.
- Engage in a heartfelt conversation or video call with loved ones.
- Keep a journal and write down your thoughts, dreams, or ideas.
- Treat yourself to a mini staycation by turning off your phone and enjoying a day of self-care.
Written by: Lori Bernstein of Designthusiam
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