The life of an Instagram isn't all glitz and glamor — there's also a bit of responsibility involved. If people are looking at you for tips on style, photography, or even cooking, you want to make sure that you're at the top of your game. Enter: Caitlin Hendricks.
A videographer based in Chicago, Caitlin is best known for her viral TikTok where she impersonates Alexis Rose from Schitt's Creek.
@caitlin_hendricksPeople tell me I’m #alittlebitalexis #schittscreek #tv #alexis #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #featureme #dance #distancedance #nailedit #comedy #alexisrose♬ original sound - Caitlin Hendricks
Not only does she know what it takes to make a photo look great, but she's also got great taste in just about everything else. From oh-so-soft slippers to revitalizing eye patches, we asked Caitlin to share the products that helped upgrade her look.
We hope you find these products as awesome as we do. Just an FYI: We are a participant in the Amazon affiliate program, and may receive a share of sales from links on this page. Prices on Amazon fluctuate so anything mentioned below might change as soon we publish it!
But the best part about Caitlin's picks? They're so versatile that everybody can find something they'll like — keep scrolling to check out her 15 must-haves!
We hope you find these products as awesome as we do. Just an FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.
Hey there! My name is Caitlin Hendricks —
via: Instagram
Hi! I'm Caitlin Hendricks and I'm a freelance videographer/photographer/video editor from Chicago! I'm the kind of person that thinks I'm WAYYYY funnier than I actually probably am (my family assures me that's true) but I'm also like 99% positive that I'm hilarious. I'm single in the city, live for TikTok, and am obsessed with sports (and the men playing them). I have four brothers, yet somehow know how to do some girly things like curl my hair — but if we're being honest? I'd choose sweatpants and a messy bun any day. Oh and most importantly — wine is my best friend.These eye patches that feel like heaven.
These eye patches are HEAVEN SENT. I put them under my eyes whenever I'm tired, lazy, or just feel like being pampered. They feel amazingly refreshing, and when you take them off, you look alive again!
I'm obsessed with my Apple Watch.
I'm obsessed with my Apple Watch — I wear it every day! I love using it to track my fitness goals and find myself competing against it to make sure I've hit all my daily goals. It really keeps me accountable!
Dumbbells are an easy way to get fit at home!
Are you really working out if you don't challenge yourself a little bit with some dumbbells? I love these 8-pound ones and use them for all my at-home workouts. I can drop down to just 1 pound if they're feeling too heavy, or push myself with both when I'm feeling strong!
You'll be shocked how much use you get out of a smartphone tripod.
I never knew how badly I needed a phone tripod was until I bought one — turns out this thing is my bread and butter. I use it for everything from Zoom calls with the family to making TikToks for my own entertainment.
A wine opener that pops bottles open for you.
Every girl knows how important wine can be to our sanity, and nothing is worse than snapping a cork in half when trying to get to your liquid BFF. This wine opener not only comes with a foil cutter, but the battery is also rechargeable — no need to worry about buying wasteful batteries.
These slippers are absolutely AMAZING!
These slippers keep my feet warm in the winter (definitely necessary in Chicago), and have just the right amount of padding so my feet never hurt throughout the day. This pair is particularly special to me because they came from my Grandma.
A stylish water bottle that comes in tons of colors.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinking water is so important throughout the day, and this water bottle keeps my water cold all day long! I literally never let it leave my side (I say as I take another sip).
An insightful book I like to read every morning.
The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is read my daily devotional from this book. Even if you aren't a religious person, the teachings and insights in this devotional can really help elevate your day and give you hope when you're feeling hopeless. It's my own personal form of meditation and I love it.
This portable charger is almost TOO important.
I find that my phone dies REAL quick all the time, which may or may not have to do with the amount of TikToks I make in a day. This little battery gets my phone charged super quick, and helps to KEEP it charged, too! But the best part? It can even charge my iPhone 8 more than two times.
This ointment that soothes sunburns and chapped lips.
Obsessed is an understatement when it comes to this ointment. I got it from my friend who is a professional make up artist, and I plop it on before I start my makeup — by the time I'm done, my lips are already silky smooth. AND they don't make my lips chapped or flaky later in the night as I've experienced with some other lip balms.
This lipstick that looks great on everybody!
This lipstick, I swear, looks good on EVERYONE! It's my go-to for every occasion whether I'm having a fancy night out or just going to a bar to watch football. I typically use the color Brown Sugar!
This eyebrow gel that adds dimension and fullness!
This stuff...is phenomenal! I never leave the house without doing my brows and this tinted gel keeps them looking gorgeous and tamed all day long. The color I use on my brows is Granite!
A silky primer for crease-free, stunning eyeshadow looks.
As you can see from this tube, I use this primer a lot! I plop it on my eyelids before I add shadow and, I kid you not, my makeup stays on all day long. It never creases, I never need to re-apply, and it's even made with vitamin E to help keep my lids feeling moisturized.
This curling iron with 3 interchangeable barrels.
This is by far the best curling iron I have ever owned. It comes with three different barrels for small, medium, and large curls — and it heats up super quick. Not to mention, my curls literally last all through the night!
This shampoo brush that gives your head a relaxing massage.
If you try telling me you don't love a head massage in the shower, you're lying! This shampoo brush is perfect and really makes me feel like my hair is getting the most out of all that soapy lather. Not to mention, it feels nice on the 'ole noggin!
A self-tanner that gives my skin a beachy glow.
I live in Chicago, which means it's winter basically eight months out of the year. And real talk? It would be dangerous to allow the world to see my skin after my hibernation due to its translucent nature. This tanning foam is simply the best and makes me look like I have a natural tan instead of looking like an Oompa Loompa.
A glossy nail polish that comes in tons of colors!
via: Instagram
Honestly, I probably have a full salon's worth of Essie nail polish in my bathroom right now. I love the colors they come up with, and the nail polish is high-quality too. They're also so simple to mix and match if you want to get a little crazy with your nails!These Ray-Ban Sunglasses for less than $200.
via: Instagram
I can't go anywhere without my Raybans, and I'll tell you why. Not only do they keep the sun out of my eyes, but they also are a phenomenal disguise when you see someone in the grocery store you don't feel like talking to. Invest in these because they are worth it — plus, they're super cute.These stylish masks that you'll actually WANT to put on.
Masks have turned into a fashion statement in 2020, and these are my all-time favorites. They come in a variety of designs, and a portion of every purchase gets donated to charity — what's not to love?
These hair ties that can handle really, REALLY thick hair!
Oh baby I love these hair ties! They're super stretchy, and can hold all of my VERY THICK hair without damaging my strands at all! Grab them in multiple colors that blend into your mane.
Interested in more? Let us introduce you to baking prodigy Emily Rapp.
My name is Emily Rapp, and I run a baking blog and an Instagram account called Baking with Lemon.
I’m 21 years old and finishing up my last year of college. My degree is in Chemical Engineering. I love food photography, and am hoping to turn that into my career! Here are some of my all-time favorite products.My Brevite Photo Jumper Backpack that doubles as a backpack and camera bag.
This bag is the perfect size, and has so many cool pockets. The zip closure keeps my stuff secure so I don’t have to worry about anything falling out when I’m out and about, and the different compartments give me a ton of options. This thing is definitely my new favorite bag.
View on Amazon
My Clinique face wash that really helps my face clear up ASAP.
I use this face wash whenever I start to get a couple of bumps around my period time, and they clear up within a day like magic! It’s also powerful without being too harsh on sensitive skin. I highly recommend it to everyone.
View on Amazon
This camera lens that's a must-have for any serious photographers.
It was definitely a guilty pleasure purchase, but I had to have this camera lens. The color retention is insanely beautiful. It’s the perfect universal lens. If you want to give your photos a major upgrade, this lens is absolutely worth the investment.
View on Amazon
Blue Sky makes amazing planners.
These planners are the perfect size for throwing into a purse or backpack, are super durable, and easy to use. I use my planner every day and recommend it to anyone who wants to stay organized. You’ll be amazed at how much more you’re able to get done!
View on Amazon
My phone case is such a conversation starter!
I love hearing people’s thoughts about social media, and the slogan on this phone case really encompasses my thoughts and beliefs. It also protects my phone super well, and trust me, I drop my phone a lot. It also comes in a variety of sizes so you can find one that fits your phone perfectly.
View on Amazon
My temperature gun is so helpful for baking.
Whenever I'm grilling outside, this thermometer gives me an instantaneous read so I know how hot my food is running. It’s very user friendly, and I use it all the time! Bonus: it also makes me feel like I’ve traveled to the distant future every time I press the button.
View on Amazon
My food scale is something I cannot live without.
It’s the only reason my macarons come out perfectly every time, and this food scale is the best measurement for baking. I know cups are good and all, but weight measurements are way more accurate. Plus, you eliminate having to wash all of those extra measurement dishes!
View on Amazon
I have gone through many cookie scoops, and each one broke. But then I bought this one.
This cookie scoop features super-steady gears that glide smoothly when you grip the handle, so you’ll never have to worry about breaking it! The heavy-duty stainless steel construction adds durability so it keeps looking and performing like new year after year.
View on Amazon
As a food photographer, I'm constantly looking for quality surfaces to take photos on.
I was apprehensive about buying surfaces from Amazon since I didn’t know what to expect. But luckily, I got this double-sided surface, and I love it! The colors are great, the texture is clear and focused, and it’s so easy to store and clean.
View on Amazon
I hate getting white things dirty, especially when they're expensive like AirPods.
In order to keep my AirPods clean and safe from drop hazards, I bought this case. It’s easy to attach to things, and looks super cute! The yellow color adds a lovely pop of color, and you can’t beat the price!
View on Amazon
Being a student online now has some advantages, but a lot of disadvantages too. One being eye fatigue.
I bought these blue light glasses to combat my headaches and blurry vision that I was dealing with due to looking at my computer screen all day. I’ve noticed a major improvement since I began wearing them, and so many of my friends have also bought them too! We love them.
View on Amazon
Rodelle baking cocoa has to be my favorite.
Rodelle baking cocoa has a depth of flavor that I struggle to find in other cocoas. The price tag is right, and it is a perfect way to get home cooks into using dutch-processed cocoa over natural cocoa powder. I also love that I can get it delivered to my door!
View on Amazon
Staub makes beautiful pie dishes.
This white pie dish is a favorite of mine. It cooks food so evenly, and it looks beautiful in photographs! This is one of those rare dishes that looks just as gorgeous without a pie on it as it does with one.
View on Amazon
These are the cutest, most funky sunglasses ever!
Honestly, when I saw a ton of people at Coachella wearing these glasses I knew I had to buy a pair. They are actually very high-quality and come with a nice bag along with a lens wipe. And no one needs to know that you bought them on Amazon instead of a high-end boutique!
View on Amazon
I was not going to buy a Switch...
…but then COVID hit and Animal Crossing came out, so I just had to get one. Zero regrets. Playing with my Switch is such a fun way to escape for a bit, and you can even pop it out of the mount to play while you're traveling or on the go. Because who couldn’t use a little escape right now?
View on Amazon
Emily may have tons of baking tips, but what if you're more into photography? In that case, meet professional photographer Mason Stevens.
Hey! My name is Mason Stevens, and I run the Instagram account @cashtuesday.
I’m a professional photographer living in South Dakota. I take a lot of pictures and think you should too! I also believe in staying active and healthy, so here are some of my favorite things, from fun cameras to workout equipment!The anticipation of waiting for a Polaroid picture to develop is one of the most exciting things for anyone who takes pictures!
I take Polaroid photos of my friends, professional jobs, and everything in between. It’s the most fun and honest way to capture a memory! It also gives me tons of nostalgic feels every time I snap a Polaroid shop.
View on Amazon
This speaker makes playing music throughout the house too easy!
There is rarely a day that this little speaker isn’t blasting music, and its clean design helps it blend right into the room! The rich, room-filling sound has surprising depth and clarity. Music-lovers, you need this speaker in your life
View on Amazon
This tape might be he most important item on the list!
I have used this tape in countless situations, and it has never let me down. You can tape wires, and you can tape equipment, and you can even tape your tape! The vibrant colors make a strong impact — plus, it's surprisingly sticky.
View on Amazon
There is no better home workout to fight stress than boxing!
I like to put on these boxing gloves and do a killer workout, or just throw my arms up and pretend to be the champ! They’re comfortable and resilient against even the strongest impact. Choose from four awesome colors and a variety of size options.
View on Amazon
I shoot film photos as much as I possibly can!
It’s always great to get pictures of times you may have forgotten, and this film gives all your memories the perfect look and feel! This set comes in a pack of four cartridges of Fuji film for under $25 — a killer deal.
View on Amazon
These workout shorts couldn't get any better.
Built-in underwear! Zipper pockets! Phone pocket! Extremely comfortable! What more could you ask for in a pair of cozy shorts? Plus, the stretchy fabric, fitted second layer, and drawstring closure make them great for lounging. I want them in every color!
View on Amazon
This pack of 12 different incense makes sure the right smells are always burning!
Getting the vibe set just right is a very important part of my home and work life. This incense set comes in a pack of 12 assorted scents including Californian White Sage, Spicy Patchouli, and Tropical Lemon Grass. I’m completely hooked!
View on Amazon
While it may look like a funny little toy, this camera seriously takes some of my favorite pictures.
This little camera is a great and easy way to add a little flair to the pictures you take! It features four lenses so you get four unique shots in every photo. I love the colorful design, and the smaller size makes it easy to carry with me wherever I go.
View on Amazon
Ever wondered what it would be like to take out the trash if you were 40lbs heavier?
It’s not easy! This weighted vest will take any workout or task to a new level. The weights can be removed so you can work up to more weights, and shoulder pads add cushion and comfort — a must-have for home workouts!
View on Amazon
These big and bright backdrop papers never wrinkle!
These backdrop papers are great for adding color to any sort of photo. If you’re looking to get into photography or just want to take your amateur photoshoots to the next level, I highly suggest them. They come in several different sizes and make your shots look way more professional.
View on Amazon
The true star during any of my photoshoots is this work cart.
You'd be surprised, but this work cart keeps all my tools and important things organized — plus, it even has brakes! I love how it folds up for easy storage when I’m not using it, or when I’m transporting it to a shooting location. This cart is a total game-changer.
View on Amazon
There is an essential oil for everything.
When I say everything, I mean everything — that's why I like to keep a wide variety of these essential oils around. This 18-piece set is my hands-down favorite, both because of the amazing mix of scents and for how high-quality the oil is. Spray a little over there, rub a little on here, a couple of drops in that. The possibilities are endless.
View on Amazon
This fan folds flat and has zero cords!
You can carry this fan with you wherever you go and it will just keep blowing air! You can’t really tell from this photo, but the neck can be extended to over 3 feet, meaning you can use it as a pedestal stand floor fan or desk fan.
View on Amazon
A solid tripod means solid pictures!
Your tripod is not the piece of equipment you want to try and go cheap on. Take my advice and get this sturdy one! It's made from sturdy aluminum, and the brand Vanguard Alta Pro is one of my most trusted choices — I recommend it to all of my fellow photographers.
View on Amazon
This heater might have actually saved my life during some of the cold South Dakotah winters.
Or, it at least saved me from having to sleep with four pairs of socks on. This heater has three different modes so you can customize your toastiness, and the controls are clear and easy to use. I bring this space heater with me whenever I travel anywhere chilly.
View on Amazon
Or maybe you're looking for things that are a little more on the 'chic' side? In that case, influencer Ruru Tatyana's got great taste — and picks!
My name is Ruru Tatyana and I'm the face behind @cheztatyana on Instagram and www.cheztatyana.com.
I am a passionate health and wellness blogger who is venturing into the conscious living sphere. I am currently an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts. I love to shop, read, and share my experiences online.My absolute favourite author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, channels the challenges of a young Nigerian girl in her novel ‘Purple Hibiscus’.
via: Instagram
This novel follows a young girl through her traumatic upbringing that especially resonated with me. This emotional rollercoaster of a novel had me absolutely hooked. Although it is incredibly sad and dramatic, I just couldn’t put it down. I read this about three years ago and I still rave about it.I recently bought a Leaf Shave Razor and I am absolutely in love with it.
via: Instagram
Leaf is a sustainable, eco-friendly brand that promotes limiting waste and reducing plastic. I really love using razors with refillable blades rather than disposables. This razor is not only kind towards the environment, but it's freaking precise, and gives the cleanest shave ever. I can’t recommend this enough!I bought this super convenient bed desk on Amazon during my freshman year at University.
via: Instagram
This bed desk is perfect for workdays and chill days. I love to prop it up and place my laptop and a hot cuppa tea on it. This is great for both your lazy and productive needs. I keep it next to my bed so I can easily grab it whenever I want to get some work done while lounging! View on AmazonAre you sick and tired of spending $6 on a chai latte from Starbucks?
via: Instagram
Cause I sure was. Buying this Tazo chai concentrate was such a great decision. It’s super affordable, and making chai lattes at home saves so much money! The blend of black tea, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and vanilla is incredibly delicious. View on AmazonSo I went to a Trader Joe's for the first time in my life over the summer and I have to say that I fell in love.
via: Instagram
I had to stock up on as many goodies as possible seeing as I live in Canada (aka, too far from Trader Joe’s). My favorite purchase was the infamous Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning. This seasoning is perfect on avocado toast, salads, and literally anything else. View on AmazonOn the same decor note as my previous favourite, this item just ties my room together.
via: Instagram
This stunning gold mirror sits perfectly in the corner of my bedroom. I cannot express how badly I wanted a gold mirror and how tirelessly I searched for one. It needed to be the perfect hue and the perfect size — Amazon outdid itself with this one! View on AmazonNow, I rarely rave about beddings, but this mauve duvet cover is absolutely divine.
via: Instagram
I just moved into a new apartment, and I wanted new beddings to set a fresh new mood. I love how this color is muted yet draws attention. My bed got a total refresh without me having to spend a lot of money. For the price and quality, I am impressed! View on AmazonI actually got this Secura frother as a birthday gift and I couldn't be happier.
via: Instagram
I honestly think that this frother has made my morning coffee routine more exciting and enjoyable. This frother has several settings and it makes for the perfect cappuccino or latte! Who needs Starbucks when you have a milk frother like this one? View on AmazonI bought my first ever FitBit last December and I have no regrets!
via: Instagram
My new FitBit makes it easy to start tracking your daily activity and sleep habits. I have found this really helpful to set health and fitness goals. Not to mention, I bought a metal gold band that makes it a cute accessory, and great for keeping fit. View on AmazonIf you know me you know that there is no shortage of reusable water bottles in my home.
via: Instagram
My most recent investment was a 32 oz HydroFlask. I have never been the type of person to use plastic water bottles, and I have always been drawn to the fact that reusable water bottles reduce waste really efficiently. If you’re trying to figure out how you can positively contribute to waste reduction, this is the perfect place to start. Hydro-flasks are also great for keeping your drinks hot and cold. Who wouldn’t love that? View on AmazonI don't know where my sudden fascination with glassware has stemmed from, but I am obsessed.
via: Instagram
I believe that these mugs are so stunning, and they make my morning coffee so much more enjoyable. I love watching my espresso and frothed milk come together to make the perfect latte even better! I feel like I’m in an upscale coffee shop whenever I sip out of one of these glasses. View on AmazonI absolutely adore being able to switch up my style and my phone cases are a great way to accessorize.
via: Instagram
Unfortunately, I find that having a massive phone case collection can be pretty wasteful and harmful to our planet. That's why I got my hands on some beautiful biodegradable, compostable, and stylish phone cases earlier this year. They’ve got an awesome product range and design variety. View on AmazonThe Logitech Pebble M350 is my absolute favorite mouse.
via: Instagram
I use this mouse all day and every day. It is so uncommon to find a mouse that is compatible with iPad products, as they usually require USB Bluetooth connections. This one actually allows you to wirelessly connect the mouse to your iPad without the hassle. Not to mention it’s also light, sleek, and pocket-sized! View on AmazonI bought the LogiTech K380 wireless keyboard about two months ago, and I can confirm that it is a game-changer!
via: Instagram
I love being able to use my iPad as a laptop, and this keyboard makes that possible! It’s incredibly affordable and ridiculously cute. The soft pink hue looks lovely on my desk and in photographs. This keyboard has been a total win-win for me! View on AmazonI recently invested in the 2020 iPad Pro and I cannot express how in love with it I am.
via: Instagram
It’s super light, has multiple uses, and is easy to transport. I love how versatile the iPad is. Apple really truly outdid itself. I love to use it to take notes, draw and sketch with Procreate, edit my photos with Lightroom, and even complete all my techy needs (emails, budgeting, etc). It's basically a laptop but without the hassle.