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!
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 pricy 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. The first time you turn off lights without getting out of bed will be worth every dollar.
Upgrade your knobs: We swear by this instant upgrade for bathrooms, kitchens, TV stands, or really anything with a handle. Grab a couple for a few bucks each at Home Depot or your local hardware store and swap them out with just a screwdriver. It’s a luxury touch that will bring you joy every day (just make sure not to get any that will catch your clothes every time you walk by! Live and learn...)
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 even from the grocery store make it pretty 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 or special door mounts.
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.) We recently endured a week with our ice maker not quite feeling up to the task, and honestly it was rough.
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. We're in year 9 with our first set running strong. 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 because you’re the fancy friend now.
Being a functional human doesn’t mean you can’t feel a little bit fancy.