Stressed About Election Night? Here’s How to Stay Calm (and Sane) as Results Roll In



A psychologist shares their top tips—starting with setting boundaries.

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.

Oprah’s Favorite Things alternatives, at a glance:

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


 Stressed About Election Night? Here’s How to Stay Calm (and Sane) as Results Roll In

If you were eyeing that $248 Eberjey robe…

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.


 Stressed About Election Night? Here’s How to Stay Calm (and Sane) as Results Roll In

If you want to snuggle up in those $230 Cozy Earth PJs…

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.