No one likes to admit they’ve fallen for influencer marketing, but let’s be honest — we all have. We see a product pop up on our feeds enough times, hear a celebrity talk about it in just the right way — and suddenly, we’re buying it. While some of these purchases end up being forgettable disappointments, every now and then, something actually delivers. As someone who is shamefully very easily influenced, here are a few things I was “influenced” to buy and thankfully do not regret.
Chamberlain Coffee: Emma Chamberlain built her brand around caffeine-fueled chaos, so naturally, I was curious when she launched her own coffee company. But what sold me wasn’t the influencer hype — it was the “coffee pouch” feature. Like a tea bag, but for coffee, it makes brewing a cup as easy as steeping. Not to mention, the pouches can be used immediately with hot water for a hot cup of coffee, or let them steep for a couple of hours in the fridge, and you have a great cold brew. While the ease and taste of Chamberlain Coffee are among the main reasons I keep returning to the products, the flavors take it to another level. Specialty flavors like cake batter, hazelnut, brown sugar and cookies and cream allow for a unique coffee-drinking experience.
Aviation American Gin: Celebrity alcohol brands are everywhere, but most feel like cash grabs with flashy marketing and subpar taste. Aviation American Gin, backed by Ryan Reynolds, is one of the rare exceptions. I initially bought it out of curiosity (and because Reynolds is seemingly everywhere), but it quickly became one of my go-to gins (I’m 22, don’t worry). It’s smooth, well-balanced and not overly botanical — perfect for a crisp gin and tonic. And at its price point, it easily rivals more expensive options. In a market flooded with celebrity-backed liquors, this one actually earns its place.
Warm & Wonderful Sheep Sweater: Designed by the creators of the iconic sheep sweater worn by the late Princess Diana, this fleece is the perfect blend of nostalgic charm and practical comfort. It’s warm but not too heavy, slightly oversized but still flattering and has that effortless, “I just threw this on” energy. I bought it expecting it to be a novelty piece, but it’s become one of my favorite pieces in my closet. Sometimes, being influenced is just an excuse to own a piece of fashion history.
Glossier Original Pink Hoodie: If Timothée Chalamet wears something, the internet takes notice. That’s exactly what happened with Glossier’s original pink hoodie, and yes, I took the bait. But here’s the thing — I’ve had it for nearly four years, and it still looks brand new. The fabric is thick and soft, the fit is perfectly relaxed and despite countless washes, it hasn’t lost its shape. For a brand primarily known for skincare and makeup, Glossier managed to make one of the best hoodies I own. And for the price, it’s a steal compared to other options out there.
We like to think we’re immune to trends, but the truth is, good marketing works for a reason. And while not everything lives up to the hype, every now and then, something does. These were my wins — consider this your sign that sometimes, it’s okay to be influenced.
