Cute products that will make you smile in 2021
(CNN) —
2020 was rough to say the least, but we’re leaving that chaotic energy behind and welcoming good vibes in the year ahead. If you’re like us, you’re looking to surround yourself with positivity — whether that be a fun piece of home decor, a moment of self-care or even the people you surround yourself with.
For the bits of joy money can buy, we’ve rounded up some items we truly think will brighten your day. Keep reading to check them out — and wishing you all the best in 2021.
Smoko Jojo Tiger USB Heated Slippers ($25, originally $36; smokonow.com)
Heated tiger slippers are what you didn’t know you needed in 2021. Just plug these bad boys into any USB port to keep your feet warm while you relax.
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Our Place Always Pan, use code CNN20 ($116, originally $145; fromourplace.com)
You’ve probably seen this pan all over your Instagram feeds, and for good reason; we tried it and loved it ourselves. The Always Pan can take the place of a whopping eight cooking devices (from a spoon rest to a steamer), and arguably most importantly, it will look ultra chic in any kitchen. Just check out those colors! You can also score 20% off the pan using our exclusive code CNN20 now through January 11.
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Tuddrom Decorative Extra-Soft Faux Fur Throw Blanket ($19.99, originally $24.99; amazon.com)
This fuzzy throw is just as incredibly soft as it looks. With over 7,500 5-star ratings, reviewers (and their pets) are obsessed with it.
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Homesick Grandma’s Kitchen Candle ($34; homesick.com)
Reminiscing about the good ol’ days is sure to put a smile on your face, right? Grab this candle to remind you of Grandma’s warm apple pie whenever you need to feel close to home.
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Urban Stems Subscription (starting at $55 per delivery; urbanstems.com)
One of the reasons we love subscription services is because it’s always nice to have something to look forward to every month. Gift yourself or someone you love a floral delivery from Urban Stems to add some color and fresh air to the home on a regular basis.
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Insmy IPX7 Waterproof Shower Speaker ($17.84, originally $25.99; amazon.com)
Does some shower karaoke seem to do the trick when you’re down? Put this waterproof Bluetooth speaker in your bathroom to sing your troubles away.
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Smoko Lil B Dumpling Ambient Light ($18; smokonow.com)
Mood lighting is essential to winding down, especially after a long day. Opt for this ambient light in the shape of an adorable soup dumpling to make you smile each time you turn it on.
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Foundstone 6.5-Inch Artificial Snake Plant in Pot ($27.99, originally $33.99; wayfair.com)
Greenery in the home is known to brighten your mood, but for some of us, the inability to care for a plant is deeply frustrating. Relieve yourself of that stress with an artificial one like this snake plant in a beautiful cement pot.
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Ban.do Best Year Ever 2021 Desk Calendar ($15.95; bando.com)
We all thought 2020 was going to be our year, but maybe 2021 will be better? Keep this calendar on your desk to spark some joy each day.
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Gorilla Grip Original Spa Bath Pillow ($26.99, originally $34.99; amazon.com)
Make bath time that much more calming with this spa bath pillow. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day, and essential to turning your bathroom into your own personal spa.
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Crosley Dove Gray Cruiser Bluetooth Record Player ($69; urbanoutfitters.com)
This vintage-inspired record player is sure to help you set the mood with your favorite tunes. Even better, it’s housed in a chic dove gray carrier that can also serve as a little bit of retro decor when you’re not using it.
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Serene House Ultrasonic Cool Mist Aromatherapy Diffuser ($29.96, originally $39.99; nordstrom.com)
The right essential oils misting through this aromatherapy diffuser are one way to help improve your mood — plus, it’ll fill your home with fragrance without the worry of burning a candle.
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PVO Mini Portable Projector ($69.99, originally $99; amazon.com)
At this point it’s almost hard to believe that we used to congregate in theaters to watch the newest movie release. Re-create that experience at home with a portable projector like this one for a fun date or night in.
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Ban.do Floor Mat in Rainbow ($40; bando.com)
We love Ban.do for its selection of fun, cheery products for every facet of our lives. And we can’t wait to get our hands on this rainbow floor mat to brighten up our bathroom or bedroom floor.
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Peach & Pebble Indoor Hanging Planter (starting at $35; etsy.com)
With all the stuff we bought in 2020 to decorate or furnish a home office, we’re running low on floor space. So we have our eyes on this hanging ceramic planter to add some greenery to our living spaces.
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Jungalow Duet Hook Pillow by Justina Blakeney ($48; jungalow.com)
This throw pillow by designer Justina Blakeney was inspired by uplifting other people. Use it to not only remind yourself of your community but also as a creative accent to your decor.
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Side Dimes So Extra Art Print (starting at $27.89, originally starting at $30.99; society6.com)
If your gallery wall is in need of yet another fun print, this piece by artist Mikayla Lapierre gives the 18th-century woman a modern take that’s sure to make you smile.
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Chloe Glass 3-Wick Candle ($29; urbanoutfitters.com)
We believe that buying a new candle can fix practically any problem. We’re obsessed with the modern shape of this one that even features a glass lid and tassel for added flair.
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Unwilted Cherry on Top Crepe Paper Floral Arrangement ($85; etsy.com)
A good floral arrangement is timeless, but unfortunately live flowers aren’t. One solution is Unwilted’s paper floral arrangements, handcrafted from Italian crepe paper to create a vibrant bouquet that mimics the real thing and literally lasts forever.
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Red Velvet NYC Baking Fun! Subscription (starting at $49.42 per month; cratejoy.com)
Are baked goods the key to your heart, or does baking something new bring you immense joy? If the answer is yes to either of those questions, check out this subscription box by Red Velvet NYC that sends you two gourmet baking kits each month, sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera ($59, originally $69; urbanoutfitters.com)
Going through old memories is a great way to lift your spirits when you’re feeling blah. Capture each moment in an instant with the Fujifilm Instax camera to cherish the memories for years to come.
Loops Beauty Weekly Reset Face Masks, 5-Pack ($30; revolve.com)
A self-care day will brighten your mood without a doubt. Incorporate one of these celebrity-loved face masks in your routine to help you leave all your worries behind, if just temporarily.
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Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask ($22; sephora.com)
The little things can really make the biggest difference in your routine. Lather on this industry-favorite lip sleeping mask before bed to lock in moisture for supple lips each morning.
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Rosen Skincare Rosewater Face Dew ($15; urbanoutfitters.com)
A quick spray of a facial mist can help you feel more alert and revive your skin on a dreary day. Stash this face dew by Rosen in your bag for some lightweight hydration anytime.
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Lonove Facial Steamer ($39.99, originally $49.99; amazon.com)
A spa day is always the answer. Treat yourself to a luxurious at-home spa experience with this facial steamer, perfect to help unclog your pores and reveal smoother skin.
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Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick in Elson 2 ($38; sephora.com)
Give yourself an extra boost of confidence with Pat McGrath’s MatteTrance in the shade Elson 2, which is a red lipstick that celebrity makeup artists swear by.
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Kiss Products Ever EZ Lashes, 5-Pack ($8.58, originally $9.98; amazon.com)
There’s something about rocking false lashes (or a really great mascara) that makes you feel like a superstar. Grab this pack of natural-looking false lashes by Kiss that even includes a tool for easy application at less than $10.
Vans Ward Crossbody Pack ($19.95, originally $30; vans.com)
OK, sure, you don’t necessarily need a tie-dye crossbody pack, but don’t you want it? Just think of how convenient it will be to have it slung across your shoulder while running errands or on an outdoor adventure.
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Converse Thermo Felt Chuck 70 ($95; converse.com)
Inspired by weather maps, these felt Chucks deserve a spot in your sneaker rotation. The bold colors are sure to lighten up any room and make you that much more excited for running errands.
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Modcloth Cosmetic Confetti Sleep Shirt ($45; modcloth.com)
Be comforted by the fact that there’s a vast universe out there to discover, and that the worries of today really might be minimal in comparison. With the moon and stars in mind, relax in this cotton-blend sleep shirt from Modcloth.
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Mejuri Tarot Moon Ring ($50; mejuri.com)
If you’re looking for some new jewelry pieces, Mejuri is guaranteed to have something that’ll suit your fancy. We have our eyes on this tarot moon ring for a little sparkle each day.
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Madewell Beaded Convertible Face Mask Lanyard ($18.50; madewell.com)
Face masks are the new normal, so why not make it an accessory too? Keep yours close with this colorful beaded lanyard that can be used for your sunglasses as well.
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Everlane The French Terry Crew ($54; everlane.com)
Raise your hands if a little retail therapy can cure your sour mood. If that’s you, check out Everlane’s French Terry Crew that will be a cozy addition to your loungewear collection.
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Sock Fancy Signature Crew Socks ($14; sockfancy.com)
Don’t underestimate the ability of a cool pair of socks to make you smile. Sock Fancy’s Signature Crew Socks are available in a variety of eye-catching designs that add some spunk to any outfit.
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Michael Kors Cece Extra-Small Woven Leather Crossbody Bag ($98.40, originally $328; michaelkors.com)
Purchasing a new designer purse is a serious mood booster. Check out this woven leather crossbody bag by Michael Kors to tote your belongings in style.
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Lululemon Align Pant II 25-Inch ($98; shop.lululemon.com)
A comfy pair of quality leggings like Lululemon’s Align pair are sure to put a smile on your face when you’re picking out work-appropriate tops for your Zoom calls.
Shineyii Ben & Jerry’s AirPods Case ($12.99; amazon.com)
How adorable is this AirPods case, inspired by a pint of Ben & Jerry’s? Choose between this and 15 other fun cases, with options like a Fritos bag or Mountain Dew bottle, and never misplace your beloved earbuds again.
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Chinatown Market x Smiley UO Exclusive Smiley Basketball ($59; urbanoutfitters.com)
This basketball will get the good vibes flowing for your next hoop session. Designed by Chinatown Market and Smiley, it honestly might be too cool to play with.
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Fresh Pawz Tie-Dye Dog Collar ($17.99; target.com)
Our pets are one of the only things that bring us consistent joy these days, so why not deck them out in something stylish? This tie-dye collar will make you even happier to see your good boy lounging around the house.
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Ban.do Feel Better De-Stress Ball — Balloon ($8; bando.com)
What better for an anxiety-inducing day than a stress ball in the shape of a smiley balloon? Likely nothing! It’s a necessity for your desk.
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‘After the Rain: Gentle Reminders for Healing, Courage and Self-Love’ by Alexandra Elle (starting at $8.53; amazon.com)
For some of us, practicing self-love is essential to maintaining a positive attitude. In this book, Alexandra Elle teaches how to overcome obstacles and welcome abundance into your daily life.
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Casetify Giraffe With Flowers Phone Case (prices vary; casetify.com)
We hold our phones so much these days, so we might as well protect it in a case that makes us smile. This one, featuring a giraffe eating a bouquet of flowers, is at the top of our wish list.
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Gaiam Yoga Mat ($34.98; amazon.com)
A cool mat like this one will make you more excited for your yoga practice each day. Reviewers love it because it’s super long and has great grip, all at an affordable price.
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Ban.do Glitter Bomb Water Bottle — Small Confetti ($26; bando.com)
Trying to drink more water in 2021? This glittery water bottle is a fun way to hydrate on the go.