Is there any merit to this mental health trend? (Spoiler alert: not always!)
One fateful day in 2002, the original influencer was born: Oprah Winfrey, who was already a talk show legend by that point, began sharing her favorite products with her audience. And, even though “The Oprah Winfrey Show” has been off the air since 2011, we can still get our share of Oprah-approved products with her annual ultimate holiday gift guide, Oprah’s Favorite Things. Which, ICYMI, 2024’s edition just hit digital shelves today.
Every year, Oprah graces us with a dizzying lineup of luxuries and must-haves that span everything from cozy cashmere to the latest tech gadgets. Favorite Things 2024 is no different—there’s so much goodness in every category. The only downside? Many of the items are super expensive…
Now, while we love and respect the hell out of Oprah, many of us are on a budget. Read on for a few alternatives to Oprah’s Favorite Things that will save you a little cash this holiday season, while still bringing you a ton of joy.
Pavilia Plush Robe, $30 (vs. $248)
J. Crew Striped Poplin Pajamas, $69 (vs. $240)
Think Royln Duffle Bag, $51 (vs. $300)
Lotus Karen Faux Fur Throw, $27 (vs. $158)
Beats Solo 4 On-Ear Headphones, $169 (vs. $350)
Pura 4 Smart Diffuser, $50 (vs. $185)
Cook N Home Popcorn Popper, $40( vs. $199)
Ninja NeverStick Premium 10-Piece Cookware Set, $189 (vs. $300)
Caracilia Jumpsuit, $46 (vs. $295)
Denim & Co Collared V-Neck Sweater, $44 (vs. $388)
C.C. Faux Fur Mittens, $20 (vs. $85)
Shop 10 alternatives to Oprah’s Favorite Things
This one is $30—and just as soft.
It’s plush, it’s shaggy, and it’s warm to boot. This long robe offers a lot of the same features (pockets, cuffed sleeves, warm sherpa) as the pick on O’s list, but at a literal fraction of the price. Available in 14 colors and two sizes: S/M, or L/XL.
Snuggle up in this $69 from J. Crew.
These striped cotton-poplin PJs are as crisp and classic as a winter morning, and have the same striped print as the Cozy Earth set. Lightweight enough for lounging but tailored just right, they’re an ideal pick for anyone who treats their sleepwear like a personal style statement. Plus, they’re on sale, marked down from $118 to just $69.
Snag this $51 puffer tote from QVC.
Similar to Oprah’s pick, this puffer bag is plush on the outside and roomy on the inside. It features a luggage slip pocket, a separate shoe compartment, interior zip pockets, and a mesh water bottle holder—really everything you need out of a quality tote.
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Wrap yourself in this plush $27 blanket.
We love a good throw blanket, especially when they’re made with snuggly faux fur. This alternative from Amazon is corded (like Oprah’s pick), a stylish detail that will look amazing on your couch or bed—when you’re not burrito’d up inside it. Available in 20 colors and four sizes.
Check out the $50 Pura 4 Smart Diffuser.
Another plug-in device that sits on your floor or counter? Who has the space? That’s why we love this smart diffuser from Pura, which plugs directly into your outlet. Like the pick on Oprah’s list, Pura’s diffuser is schedule-able—but it’s actually way cooler than that. You can put two different fragrances in the device and schedule them separately to really customize your experience throughout the day. Plus, Pura partners with fragrance brands you know and love like Capri Blue and LAFCO. Read our full review here.
Try this $189 Ninja NeverStick Premium 10-Piece Cookware Set.
If you’re on the market for a quality non-stick cookware set, the dollars can add up quickly. That’s why we like this set from Ninja, which offers all of the pots and pan sizes you need to get started (with lids!) at less than $200. The aluminum design is scratch-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Add this $40 one from Walmart to your cart.
Listen—as nice as that Popsmith version is, do you really need to spend $199 on a popcorn maker? This stainless steel one gets the delicious job just as done for a fraction of the price. It’s also safe for all stovetops and can be easily cleaned down with a quick wipe of a paper towel. Trust: Quality popcorn doesn’t need to break the bank.
Nab this $46 jumpsuit from Amazon.
This jumpsuit is basically a onesie in disguise, and we’re here for it. Like the Rivet Utility jumpsuit on Oprah’s list, this sweatsuit is attached at the waist. It features a zip entry, a drawstring hood, and pockets. One main difference from O’s pick is that this Caracilia set has cinched ankles and thumb holes in the sleeves. That may or may not be your style, but at $46 it’s probably worth a try, right? Available in XS-XL and 18 different colors.
Try this $46 Denim & Co. Collared 2fer V-Neck Sweater.
Ok, so this sweater is not cashmere like Oprah’s pick, so it’s not entirely fair to compare prices. But if it’s the style of the Brochu Walker sweater you’re after, this alternative from Denim & Co. will do the job. It has an attached shirt collar for a layered look and cute button details. Available in four colors, and sizes 2XS-5XL. And even though it’s cashmere it is still comfy.
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Try these $20 C.C. Faux Fur Mittens.
These faux fur mittens from C.C. are warm, functional, and real darn cute. I personally will not wear a mitten unless it has convertible finger access (my digits get so hot in there), so I like that both Oprah’s pick and this alternative know what’s up. What I like even better about this option? The price. And the face that it’s available in 18 colors.