Daily writing prompt

What are your favorite brands and why?

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Over the years, I’ve come to discover and love a variety of brands that truly fit my lifestyle. As a mom, a creative, and someone who values quality and authenticity, I’m all about finding items that bring me comfort, confidence, and a little bit of joy. Whether it’s fashion, skincare, or even cars, I gravitate toward products that seamlessly blend into my everyday life.

When it comes to fashion, there are a few brands I always find myself reaching for. Ann Taylor is a go-to for polished work attire—suits, blazers, skirts, and shoes that always make me feel put together. In fact, my “lucky suit” from Ann Taylor was my go-to for job interviews, and it’s still one of my favorites to this day. Loft is another favorite, offering that perfect mix of femininity and versatility, especially for dresses, cardigans, and pants that take me from errands to dinner with ease. For casual comfort, I love Gap, a brand I’ve been loyal to for over 25 years, offering cozy sweatshirts, jeans, and cardigans. Old Navy, another longtime favorite, has been part of my wardrobe for just as long, providing everyday basics like dresses, tops, and shorts. I also gravitate toward Free Assembly and Scoop, which always surprise me with their stylish, high-end feel without the hefty price tag. Banana Republic has been a go-to for about 25 years as well, offering timeless and elegant styles that are perfect for both work and weekends.

Shoes are an essential part of my wardrobe, and I trust brands like Cole Haan for their beautifully crafted shoes and coats, which are both stylish and comfortable. Franco Sarto, Naturalizer, and Life Stride are my go-to brands when I need shoes that I can wear all day without sacrificing comfort. For boots, Clark is reliable and cozy, and North Face has the perfect sneaker boots for the colder months. For my activewear, I always find myself drawn to Adidas and Nike for their sneakers and comfy sweatshirts.

I’ve always had a thing for accessories that add that perfect touch to my outfit. Ted Baker, Marc Jacobs, and Ray-Ban are my top choices for sunglasses. Whether it’s Ted Baker’s elegant style, Marc Jacobs’ bold flair, or Ray-Ban’s classic cool, these brands never let me down. Michael Kors offers a range of items from shirts to boots and handbags that effortlessly add a touch of luxury, and it’s been my go-to for almost 20 years. Karl Lagerfeld is another favorite, especially for tees that remind me of our trip to Paris. I also adore Karl Lagerfeld handbags, which add an extra touch of chic to any look. DKNY and Calvin Klein are staples for their modern and sleek designs, while Zac Zac Posen and Kate Spade always bring a mix of playful and sophisticated charm to my collection. I also love Burberry and Tory Burch for their classic, high-quality designs, and Henri Bendel has a special place in my heart, though I’m sad they’re no longer around. I truly hope they’ll make a comeback.

When the weather gets chilly, I rely on Eddie Bauer for their puffer coats that are warm but not bulky, and Columbia has the best fleece jackets for layering. Calvin Klein offers sleek and stylish puffer coats, and London Fog is timeless for outerwear that keeps me warm and polished.

Activewear is also a huge part of my life, and Champion is a staple for comfortable sweatshirts and sweatpants that have that cool, sporty vibe. I love Tommy Hilfiger for their sports pants, tees, and hoodies that give off that classic Americana look while staying comfortable and stylish.

When it comes to skincare, I swear by DHC, Hada Labo, Cosrx, and Cetaphil. These products are gentle yet effective, leaving my skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. For my daily routine, I also keep Thayer’s and Hello on hand for clean and refreshing care that doesn’t break the bank.

As much as I love my skincare, nothing beats a good cup of tea. Twinings and Numi are my top choices for soothing and flavorful tea. I also can’t go wrong with Bigelow for their comforting flavors that make every sip feel like a little moment of relaxation.

In my kitchen, I rely on Ninja for their coffee maker and cooking products. They’re so reliable and easy to use. For my baking needs, I love my Cuisinart mixer, and it’s extra special because it was a birthday gift from my husband. Another favorite of mine and one that our household can’t live without is our Instant Pot rice cooker because you know rice will keep us alive (to the tune of Love Will Keep Us Alive). Ha ha ha!

When it comes to cars, I have a soft spot for Honda, Toyota, and Fiat. Each of these brands offers something unique—Honda’s reliability, Toyota’s innovation, and Fiat’s chic, compact design. They’ve each played a part in making my journeys more enjoyable and dependable.

Lastly, when it comes to entertainment and pop culture, BT21 and BTS (the brand) hold a special place in my heart. These aren’t just adorable characters or a music group; they represent creativity, kindness, and connection. From their fashion to their merchandise, everything they create sparks joy and authenticity.

These brands are more than just items I buy—they’re part of the life I’ve built. Whether it’s what I wear, the skincare I trust, the tea I sip, or the car I drive, these brands add something special to my daily routine. They bring a little extra comfort and joy to my day, and I’m grateful for the role they play in making my life a bit easier and a whole lot more fun. I’ve owned products from these brands for many years, and the quality has remained excellent, proving that these timeless pieces are built to last.