April 17 is a big deal — no, it’s not my anniversary or a holiday, though it might as well be. It’s national treasure Jennifer Garner’s birthday, and if you’re at all familiar with my work, you know how much I admire her. How can I not when she gave me my favorite movie ever (aka, 13 Going on 30) and inspires my fashion and beauty purchases on the daily. More so, she made my dreams come true last year by jumping on a Zoom call to talk about all things beauty — and, yes, she’s just as sweet IRL. 

Obviously, I had to do something to commemorate her birthday, so I’m doing what I do best: taking a trip down memory lane and rounding up her go-to beauty and style brands throughout the years, from the running shoes she wears on repeat to the $18 retinol moisturizer in her beauty cabinet. They’re totally fabuloso!  

Jennifer Garner’s 6 Go-To Brands:

Brooks Glycerin 21 Running Shoe

I’ve been looking for an excuse to snag the Brooks Glycerin 21 Running Shoe, and this is it. Garner has worn the kicks on countless occasions, donning the brand 12 times in 2024 alone. (Talk about loyalty!) Maybe it’s the plush, cloud-like outsole, breathable upper, or grippy rubber bottom that makes them so desirable. Then again, the 10 color options and 5 to 12 size range definitely helps, too. 

Virtue Flourish Density Booster

Want the actress’ “secret” to combatting hair loss? Same. In an Instagram video for hair brand Virtue, which she’s an ambassador for, she called its Flourish Density Booster the “biggest hair innovation,” claiming she “would have killed” for the product when “so much of [her] hair fell out” after nursing her babies. Now, she’s getting “ahead of the shed” thanks to the product’s botanical-based concoction that thickens strands and promotes healthy hair growth.   

Mother the Hiker Hover Straight-Leg Jean

In a recent interview, Garner dubbed Mother jeans as one of her essential travel items, saying the pants and a sweater make up her typical airplane ensemble. What’s more, she called the brand “one of her favorites” — though that doesn’t come as a surprise since tons of A-listers like Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, Jennifer Lopez, and more have worn the brand’s denim on repeat. I have a feeling she’d wear these straight-leg, faded-blue pair since she styled a similar version in the past.

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Moisturizer

“I’m a firm believer that when you’re sleeping, your skin should be working,” Garner told me when describing her 90 second skincare routine back in October. Her solution? The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Moisturizer, which is on sale for $18. (Fun fact: Garner loves Neutrogena so much, she’s been an ambassador for the brand for 16 years!) Apply it before bed, and let your wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots diminish. Sooner than later, you’ll have hydrated, supple skin à la Garner. 

Bra-llelujah! Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra

Garner told folks they have “no idea how many friends [she’s] turned on to the Bra-llelujah” bra from Spanx — talk about a selling point. I own the same Spanx bra and can attest to its quality, comfort, and superior fit; in fact, it’s so comfy I wear it at least a few times a week. The uncomplicated, front-closure undergarment comes in seven colors and sizes 32A to 40DD.

Everlane the Gardener Overall

This Garner birthday roundup wouldn’t be complete without a pair of comfy overalls. She’s relied on the chic mom look for a minute, and most recently wore the Everlane Gardener Overalls in an Instagram video. They’re totally on brand for her farming and gardening hobbies, but still easily fit into any well-rounded spring wardrobe.   

Jennifer Garner has a knack for scoping out better-than-average products and brands, which is why I’m adding more than a few of the above picks to my cart.