My Must Haves Going Into 2026
- Jess Fulbrook
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago

As 2026 begins, I’m approaching this year differently. Less rushing. Less noise. More intention.
The final part of 2025 was a reset for me - a chance to step back, reflect, and realign how I want to live, work, and create. 2026 isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters; properly.
I thought it would be nice to share what I’m carrying into 2026 - the shows I’m watching, the creators inspiring me, the beauty habits I’m committing to, and the quieter mindset that’s guiding how I want this year to feel.
What I’m Watching
These days, I’m drawn to shows that feel like escapism - the kind I can sink into in the evenings. Shows I genuinely look forward to switching on, and escaping into for an hour (or three). Alongside that, I’ve been watching a lot more YouTube, gravitating towards content that feels easy - usually something I can have on in the background.
Shows:
Stranger Things (Season 5)
I loved the ending, but parts of it felt overly resolved. The final episode wrapped things up quickly, and I almost wish more had been left open.
Friends
With Netflix removing it, I’ve found myself defaulting to ‘best bits’ on YouTube in the evenings. It’s still my ultimate comfort watch, and I miss having it easily accessible.
Bridgerton
A surprisingly controversial comfort watch, but I can’t wait for the new season..
Emily in Paris (Season 5)
Light, escapist, and easy. I’m also living through her life with serious outfit envy.
Run Away
Another brilliant series by Harlan Coben and I’m hooked. I’m on episode five and binging whenever I get the time.
YouTube:
For fashion, beauty, and home inspiration. I’m utterly obsessed with everything they do and post, and they’re absolutely the reason behind a large portion of my shopping addiction.
Relaxed, comforting vlogs and a recently purchased beautiful new home.
She’s just bought her dream family home and I cannot wait to watch the renovation journey unfold.
For her fashion content in particular and day-in-the-life vlogs.
How I’m Dressing
This year, my style is about intention, not trends.
I’m sticking with wardrobe staples and elevated basics - the pieces that already form the foundation of my wardrobe and investing more thoughtfully in how I add to it.
My focus is on:
Better fit
Dressing for me, not trends
Creating a daily uniform I can wear on repeat without thought
Instead of constantly buying new, I want to invest more selectively in higher-quality pieces that complement what I already own and will last for years; pieces I can pass down. I love the idea of saving, adding items to a goal board, and only buying once I’ve truly wanted something for a long time, making it feel like a real treat.
Brands on my radar with items already on my wishlist include: Citizens of Humanity, Donni, Khaite, Leset, Róhe Frames, and The Frankie Shop.
My beauty approach
My approach to beauty this year is simple, consistent, and rooted in care rather than excess. I’m focusing on gentle, effective formulas that support my skin barrier rather than overcomplicating my routine. I’ve been really enjoying Korean skincare lately; brands like Laneige, Byoma, Medicube, and Beauty of Joseon.
Daily non-negotiables for me:
Taking my Symprove shot (buy here with 50% off)
Lip balm - all day, every day (current faves include Laneige, Summer Fridays, and Rhode)
Hair health is also a big focus this year. I’ve been reaching for Hairburst growth shampoo and conditioner alongside Kérastase Elixir Oil for overnight treatment, with regular scalp exfoliation and more mindful care overall - less heat and styling and looking into shower filters for long-term health.
Evenings are becoming a time for quieter beauty rituals - incorporating red light therapy and gua sha for gentle toning and lymphatic drainage, alongside taking vitamins and supplements. It’s less about chasing results and more about building feel-good habits that will support me long term.
Health, Food & Movement
I’m being more mindful about what I consume, both physically and mentally.
That means:
Reducing ultra-processed foods
Cutting down on sugar and fizzy drinks (realistically, not perfectly)
Choosing foods that support my energy and focus
I’m also paying closer attention to food choices that support my endometriosis - reducing gluten, cutting back on red meat, and researching what actually makes me feel good.
Movement-wise, I’m committing to consistency over intensity. Walking more and finally braving reformer pilates.
As I step into 2026, I’m doing so with clearer boundaries, stronger systems, and a quieter confidence in myself. I’m choosing consistency over intensity, focusing on building things that compound over time, and trusting my own instincts more than external timelines.
This year feels rooted in alignment - in how I work, what I create, and how I live day to day.
I’m consciously letting go of negativity that doesn’t belong to me, habits that no longer serve me, and anything that feels like unnecessary noise. Instead, I’m leaning into steady progress: building my finances, visualising what I want, and working patiently towards my goals.
With that all in mind, here’s to a calmer, clearer, more intentional 2026.
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