Many people like to abstain from drinking throughout the month of January after a long few months of festive occasions and tons of parties. If you are someone who is doing a Dry January and would like some options as an alternative to drinking, I have a ton in today’s post. I don’t drink and haven’t for the past 10+ years. I never enjoyed alcohol and HATE feeling drunk. I’ve also never smoked marijuana or tried any recreational drug in my entire life. That tells you a little bit about how much I hate the feeling of being in an altered state. However, a few years ago I began to see a ton of CBD + THC products being recommended by people I follow on social media and even some of my close friends. Many said they were great at helping to give a sense of relaxation without feeling altered or “high”. I was intrigued but still was hesitant. I first tried the Earlybird CBD gummies and LOVED them immediately. I am naturally a very anxious person + being in perimenopause has really increased my anxiety. These gummies helped me relax, clear my mind and actually get to sleep more easily. For me, most of the CBD+THC products that I try make me feel incredibly relaxed without that strange fogginess that comes with alcohol or other recreational drugs. They take the edge off and depending on the product have done wonders for helping sleep!

After such a positive experience with those initial gummies, I was open to trying all the different varieties of CBD + THC or alcohol-alternative products out there. I’ve compiled a list of all the various gummies, melts, seltzers and tonics that I enjoy.

Dry January Options

Aplos Variety Pack (discount code: MAREE20)

If you want to enjoy the flavor of a traditional cocktail but without the alcohol, Aplos has so many great options. I am not someone who never really liked Negronis, but the Mandora Negroni flavor was so much better than I anticipated. They are formulated with different ingredients like lion’s mane, adaptogens and magnesium to give a gentle elevating effect.

The High Confectionary Anytime Gummy

These are a CBD + THC gummy with a very low level of THC so they are great for a beginner. I will take these sometimes during the day if I’m feeling stressed and want to calm down but don’t want to make myself sleepy.

Cured Serenity Gummies (discount code: MAREE)

Another very mild option (only 1mg of THC) that is great to use for a bit of relaxation if you are feeling anxious.

WIMS Pocket Tonic

I love the idea of these CBD/THC infused tonics which you can carry with you and add to any beverage. It’s great to bring with you out with friends if you don’t want to drink alcohol but want another option to feeling a bit more uninhibited but not altered.

Willie’s Remedy Infused Seltzer (discount code: MAREE10)

Yes the Willie in the name of these is in fact, Willie Nelson. LOL It’s no surprise that he came out with his own CBD/THC line of beverages. These contain 5mg of THC so I definitely feel it more than other seltzers but still makes me feel less altered than alcohol. I won’t go any stronger than these seltzers – they are my max but still feel manageable.

Mary & Jane Microdosed Melts (discount code: MAREE20)

For another low dose option to take during the day for a moment of calm, these are melts that you put on your tongue and then let them dissolve. I really love the taste of these and find them really easy to carry around with me in my purse.

Earlybird CBD Gummies

These are the first CBD + THC product to really introduce me to this entire category. These are still my absolute favorite gummies to take at night. They help me to really relax and get to sleep easily. I never wake up groggy either.

CANN Social Tonic

Another great drink option but at a much lower dose with only 2mg of THC per can. The ginger lemongrass flavor is one of the best I’ve tried. I love having one at night in a fancy glass to help wind down. I NEVER feel altered with these and get the most subtle feeling of relaxation.

oHHo Seltzer Tonic (discount code: MAREE15)

These tonics are a bit stronger than the CANN tonics but not as strong as the ones from Willie’s Remedy. These have 3mg of THC per can and taste delicious. It’s nice having a rotation of brands and flavors to choose from depending on what I want to drink that night.

Over the past year or so, Quince has been gaining popularity all over social media. It’s a brand that many people talk about but there is a bit of a mystique around it. Many consumers question if it’s a good brand. Is it a real brand? Are the products good quality? The brand promises luxury-quality basics at low prices. I’ve had the chance to try numerous products from Quince and can speak to their quality directly and honestly. If you have been interested in trying the brand, hopefully my Quince review will help you answer any questions you may have about their background, pricing model, manufacturing transparency, real-world value and which items are actually worth buying.

Is Quince a Good Brand?

The short answer is yes. I own many pieces from Quince and have loved every single item – there has never been a miss for me! Quince is a brand known for their affordable, minimalist wardrobe staples, especially if you value material over trend cycles. It’s a great brand for basics but less ideal for trend-driven shoppers. I’ll break down a bit more about the brand, quality, sourcing, price model, ethics and customer experience in this post.

What Is Quince Clothing?

Quince was founded as a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand that focuses on timeless basics like cashmere, silk, linen, cotton and leather goods. They are known for their neutral color palettes and minimalist aesthetic. They are a brand that targets the consumer who likes luxury brands like Cuyana, Jenni Kayne, Everlane but want a more affordable price point.

What Quince Is Known For

While the Quince website does carry a ton of skus in all different categories, they are primarily known for their cashmere sweaters, washable silk, european linen bedding + clothing and their leather goods.

Where is Quince Clothing Made?

Quince clothing is made in various countries like India, Turkey, Italy, China, etc depending on the material of the item. They have a global network of factory partners that are committed to responsible production and safe working conditions.

Why Is Quince So Cheap?

Direct to Consumer model

There is no middlemen in their pricing model. The products go directly from the factory to you.

Limited SKUS and Colors

They don’t focus on fast fashion and only want to provide quality pieces in a classic aesthetic that can be worn for years to come.

No Physical Stores

There are no Quince stores anywhere in the world. They are strictly a direct-to-consumer brand.

Limited Marketing Spend

Much of Quince’s success has come from word of mouth. They don’t spend a ton of money on traditional advertising which allows them to keep their overall costs low.

How Does Quince Work?

Online-Only Shopping

You can only purchase their products directly from the Quince website.

Limited Inventory Drops

While they do release new items from time to time, they don’t focus on seasonal drops that are limited time and then go away forever. You can find many of the same pieces on their site season after season.

Direct Shipping to Consumer

Their products ship from the factory that has manufactured them to your door. No third party companies or middleman warehouses.

Is Quince Worth It?

As a consumer of Quince who owns various pieces from different categories, I definitely feel they are worth it. That being said, I don’t shop their regularly unless I am looking for quality basics to help build out my core wardrobe. They never do trendy pieces or anything that is outside their core principles of quality basics. If you want trendy items or love brands that do regular new product releases, this may not be the brand for you. I find myself returning to Quince regularly though because I am always in need of a great basic for any season. They are perfect for building out the foundation of your wardrobe and then you can look to other brands to fill in the gaps with trend-driven pieces.

Pros and Cons of Quince Clothing

PROS

Material quality for the price. You can always find pieces made from 100% quality fibers (100% organic cotton, silk, cashmere, etc) for affordable price points.

Clean, timeless designs. Anything you buy from Quince will never go out of style.

Transparent pricing policy. They often share on their website what the pricing of the item would be with traditional markups.

CONS

Inconsistent sizing across items. I have not yet experienced this but have gotten feedback that their sizing can run different depending on the item. I personally always recommend ordering the two sizes you are debating between and sending back what doesn’t fit.

Limited trend appeal. As a society, we have become accustomed to constant drops from clothing companies. New releases and rotating inventory which always keeps our attention. Quince sticks with the basics so there is often limited newness on the site. That being said, there is a HUGE selection of products to choose from so you can always discover something new on their site.

Online-only shopping experience. I rarely, if ever, shop in store and almost exclusively buy all my clothing online. I’ve developed some great online clothes shopping tips which have helped me feel more comfortable with it. But if you are someone who prefers to shop in store and try things on, Quince sadly does not have that option available to consumers.

Best Quince Items

Best Quince Cashmere Pieces

Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

This sweater is one of my favorite winter closet staples. It’s thin enough to layer under things but warm enough to wear alone.

Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater

If you want a slightly looser fit but the same overall aesthetic as the sweater I am wearing, this oversized version is the perfect option.

Mongolian Cashmere Boxy Crewneck Sweater

If you find yourself wanting to layer blouses or long sleeve tees under your cashmere sweaters, this version I am wearing in the above photo is perfect for that. Still a standard crewneck but the fit is boxy and straight which makes it a great layering piece.

Mongolian Cashmere Cardigan Sweater

No fall/winter wardrobe is complete without a simple cashmere cardigan sweater. This one comes in so many colors and has a timeless fit/style. Cardigans are especially great because while you can wear them as your regular day to day sweater, you can use them as layering pieces by throwing them over your shoulder to add some texture to an outfit.

Best Quince Silk Items

Washable Stretch Silk Blouse

This is by far one of my all time favorite Quince pieces. It’s the perfect drapey fit that you an wear alone or layer under a blazer or cardigan. It’s a piece that will always make your outfit look elevated and polished.

100% Washable Silk Maxi Skirt

A silky slip skirt is a closet staple that you can style almost 365 days a year. I have worn my slip skirt every season because it pairs well with almost any shirt or sweater I wear with it.

Best Quince Accessories

Italian Leather Handwoven Satchel

The quality of this handbag is truly unmatched for the price. I am wearing it in the burgundy shade in the above photo and love how luxe it looks. It also has a long strap so you can wear it over your shoulder or crossbody.

Italian Suede Shopper Tote

There are so many amazing quality leather totes at Quince but this one continues to be a top seller year after year.

Best Quince Coats

Double-Faced Merino Wool Scarf Coat

This scarf coat was one of the top selling items that I shared over the past few months. So many of you purchased it as a classic coat to wear throughout the entire winter. The scarf is attached which is what makes me love it even more. The material is thick but not suitable for below freezing temps. The style of the coat is easy to dress up or down which is why I think it’s become so popular.

Wool Cashmere Cocoon Coat

If you don’t want any added detail, this mid-length wool cocoon coat is something you will have for the next 10+ years. It will never go out of style and will work with almost any outfit.

Featherless Quilted Long Puffer Jacket

So many puffer coats can look bulky and shapeless but this slim fitting quilted style is one of the best I’ve tried. So chic and looks much more expensive than it is.

Responsible Down Puffer Jacket

For a traditional down puffer coat, this top selling style is a great option for only $150!

Where to Buy Quince Clothing?

You can only purchase Quince products directly from their site. If you find their pieces at any other retailer, I would not be confident they are 100% authentic. It’s best to shop from their website only if you want to try any of their products.