Twenty Things I Can't Live Without

I decided to write this post after reading Cupcakes and Cashmere’s The 20 Items You Need To Own. These twenty things make my life easier and more enjoyable. Many of them I didn’t know I could live without until they entered my life, now I couldn’t think of a world without them.

A HANDheld Steamer
Ever since I bought a steamer I can't leave the house in a crinkled outfit... and if I do, I immediately want to rush home and steam it.
I spent a lot of time researching and finally settled on the Kambrook Swiftsteam Garment Steamer and I am so pleased with it especially as it’s only $49.95! Steamers can be extremely expensive, you can pay hundreds of dollars for them but this little guy does the job perfectly. Plus, it’s a great size for travel too.
KNITWEAR Depiller
To keep your knits looking fresh or bring your old knits back to life, invest in a Sweater comb and Sweater stone.
Use a Sweater Comb for fine knits and cashmere and a sweater stone for heavyweight knitwear. Read more on how to care for your knits here.
The best hair dryeRS
I have owned a Parlux Hairdryer since 2010. This Italian hairdryer is excellent quality, durable and for approximately $220 is not bad value for how long it lasts.
Last year I was gifted a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer and I fell in love. It dries hair in minutes and doesn't rely only on heat to dry which means less damage to your hair. While I am a convert, I still believe the $499 Dyson price tag is a bit much. So I if you are in the market for a new hairdryer and have cash to burn, the Dyson is for you. However, if you are looking for an excellent quality machine at half the cost, pick yourself up a Parlux.
The Best Vacuum Cleaner
And from hairdryers to vacuum cleaners…
I am not a natural cleaner, but my Dyson V8 Animal vacuum cleaner makes me one. The cordless ability makes it simple to walk it around the house and amazingly it picks up all of my cats’ fur! Looking to simplify your life and become the cleaner you always wanted to be? Invest in a Dyson vacuum - it’s well worth the money.
Good quality Linen
Five years ago I wouldn’t have thought adding quality linen to my can’t live without list, but now in my thirties, quality linen brings me joy. My linen table cloth and napkins from Cultiver make me feel like a true accomplished adult.
Bedlinen is another luxury that you don’t really appreciate until you sleep in good quality sheets. I love the ones from Cultiver for premium quality and lovely natural colours. Country Road and Sheridan are great for more affordable options.
Carry a hairbrush in your handbag
Recently since I started curling my hair, I have religiously carried around a hairbrush in my bag. It helps on windy days, when you have been out all day, need to smooth out your waves or add that last minute polish to your overall look. Try it, it’s a beauty lifesaver.
lipbalm
I am sure lipbalm is a must-have for a lot of people, many have multiples floating in their bag. Dermal Therapy is my favourite, even more so now that it comes in SPF50+.
sunscreen
I get anxious when I don’t put sunscreen on and I step out into the sun, even for a few minutes. Sunscreen is my number one beauty product and I don’t go anywhere without a small bottle for reapplying. My favourites are: Elucent, La Clinica and La Roche Posay.
Plants
As much as my husband might think they add clutter, I am enamoured with my plant collection. My track record isn't perfect but I do my best. I’m currently following the mantra "love them less" i.e. don't over water and things seem to be doing ok.
Bokashi Bin
Since purchasing a Bokashi Fermenter bin from Compost Revolution, I have saved so much compostable organic material/food waste going into my landfill rubbish. Compost Revolution work with councils across Australia to discount up to 80% off composing gear and deliver it right to your door. It’s a great initiative. Look into it!
Cashmere sweater and leggings
Yes it sounds bougey but I am obsessed with my cashmere sweaters and matching leggings. While the leggings are saved for in-home use only, I wear my cashmere sweaters all the time out of the house and at home. My set is from Everlane. I have the grey cashmere sweatshirt and the grey cashmere leggings. Naked Cashmere is another divine label selling gorgeous cashmere.
Already own cashmere? Follow these instructions for how to care for your cashmere.
Slippers
Coming from a shoeless household, I have always loved slippers. My current ones are Mayberry from Emu Australia and are made from Australian sheepskin. They are the comfiest clouds I ever did walk on. Not only wearing slippers will keep your feet warm and protect you from catching a cold from cold floors, it also means that when you hop into bed that you aren't transferring the ground into bed with you. Ew.
Seamless underwear
You never have to worry about VPL with seamless nude underwear. My favourite are from NUDA.
Favourite swimwear
When you wear a swimsuit that makes you feel AMAZING, the sun shines right out of your face. Well, that’s what I think anyway. Bathers by The Fold are created for D+ cups, designed to support your bust and sculpt your body. If you're a D+ Cup like me, you have to try this brand. I own the one piece called - The One. Next on my list are The Tri top and the The Rise high-rise bottoms.
Camera
I can't go anywhere without my camera. I now own two - a compact Sony A7ii mirrorless camera for events and travel. I recently invested in a professional camera, a Canon 5d Mark iii and lens, which I am super excited about! Whether you are a budding photographer or just want to snap happy with your family and friends I recommend having a camera on hand! Phone cameras are fine, but there’s nothing like photos from a real camera. That’s my thought anyway.
A silk pillow case
These silk pillowcases are all the rage, and for excellent reason. They help keep your skin smooth and your hair frizz free. Read my 10 tips on getting your beauty sleep here.
Good quality headphones
I own headphones by Bowens & Wilkins from Mr Porter. I would never have thought I would be so in love with a pair of headphones. My husband and I fight over who gets to use them all the time. They are made from leather, comfortable and have terrific sound. They will set you back a few hundred dollars but are worth it. You can also purchase replaceable ear pads once they wear out.
If these are a little too expensive, then buy the best quality you can afford. This will save you money in the future and you won’t need to keep upgrading.
Electric Toothbrush
Save your teeth and gums and purchase an electric toothbrush - your dentist will love you for it.
Quality Skincare
While it’s my job to trial different skincare products and brands, I always ensure my skin gets a break if it’s not liking what I’m putting on it. Whenever there is a lull in skincare trialling, I go back to Australian skincare brand La Clinica (read more about it here). I recommend La Clinica’s GLY C Refine pack for anyone wanting to improve their skin and start an anti-ageing routine. If you’re looking for a new serum, my favourite is from Biologi.
Knives
My husband and I received a 6-set of Shun knives for our engagement. It was one of the best gifts we received. We’re not chefs but they are beautiful to use. Cooking with them is a delight.