How is it possible that Christmas is only two weeks away? Time feels slippery this year, moving in that strange holiday rhythm where days blur together. Personally, I always crave more seasonal gatherings—give me twinkling lights, mulled wine, a crowded living room of friends and family, and any excuse to dress up a little. This is my happy place. Since we don’t have endless parties lined up, I’m leaning into smaller joys: pretty accessories, festive touches, and small rituals that make the season feel extra special.
A Sparkle for the Season
Earrings are having a moment in my world right now. I spotted the sweetest pair recently that immediately caught my eye—dainty but still statement-making in their own way. On that note, I’ve also been reaching for pieces from Heaven Mayhem. Their designs strike the balance between playful and chic, and I keep cycling between two pairs that go with everything. The holiday season practically begs for a little extra shine, so I’m fully embracing it.
Holiday Hair Inspiration
Beyond jewelry, hair accessories are another easy way to dial up the festive mood. A bow might sound overly sweet at first, but I love the idea of pairing it with something slightly edgier—think a leather jacket or darker lip color—to keep the look modern. There’s one bow in particular I’ve been bookmarking that nails that balance. It’s simple, chic, and instantly elevates an otherwise low-effort hairstyle.
Shopping Notes: Sales & Staples
If you’re in a bit of a shopping mood, a quick PSA: Levi’s is having a 40% off site-wide sale right now. Their jeans are true to size, flattering, and easily some of my most-worn pairs. I also own a Levi’s jacket that gets constant compliments—the photos online don’t do it justice. Styled together, they create the kind of timeless, casual look that works in every season.
I’ve also been reaching for my brown leather jacket more often lately. It has this slightly oversized cut that feels very now, but what I love most is how much it reminds me of one my dad wore when I was growing up. It’s funny how clothing can hold memories that sneak up on you, giving a vintage feel even when the piece itself is new.
Small Ways to Romanticize Winter
Since the holidays aren’t just about gifts and glitter, I’ve been collecting small rituals that help make the colder months feel special. I loved this piece on 30 ways to romanticize your life this winter—a reminder that simple things (cozy socks, morning walks, warm mugs of tea) can feel magical when approached with intention.
On a related note, I’ve been experimenting with little swaps and upgrades at home. For instance, cleaning your coffee maker more often than you think you need to? Total game changer for the taste of your morning cup. It’s the kind of small detail that sets the tone for a better day.
Reads & Reflections
December always seems to invite a bit of reflection, so I’ve been bookmarking articles that lean thoughtful.
- A fascinating deep dive on Nostalgia and whether it’s quite what we think it is.
- An eye-opening look at how childhood independence links to mental health—important reading, especially for parents.
- A sweet reminder that it’s never too late to finish what you started, which feels like the perfect sentiment to carry into a new year.
And for something lighter, I stumbled across a fun piece about which zodiac signs are the best at reading people. Not exactly science, but entertaining nonetheless.
Gifting & Family Notes
For those still wrapping up their lists, I pulled together children’s gift ideas (with Nate and Sasha’s wish lists included for inspiration). Whether you’re shopping for your own kids, nieces, nephews, or family friends, having a peek at what real kids are hoping for can be a helpful guide.
Family gatherings also mean navigating conversations that can sometimes get… complicated. If you need it, there’s a great resource on how to manage uncomfortable questions at family gatherings. Boundaries are important, especially during the holidays, and sometimes a little preparation makes all the difference.
Odds & Ends Worth Sharing
- A round-up of 9 celebrities and their all-time favorite perfumes (from 2021, but still a fun read).
- A peek into the whimsical world of Nutcracker kids.
- Alicia’s Weekend Five from Substack, which includes everything from the best socks to a jarred pasta sauce that I now need to try.
- A gorgeous Greenwich Village apartment tour for anyone mid-renovation (or just dreaming about bookshelves).
- A list of great winter getaways from NYC for families—filed away for when the city starts to feel a little too gray.
Wrapping Up
So here we are, halfway through December, leaning into little joys—sparkly earrings, a good sale, a bow in the hair, or a morning coffee that tastes just a little better than usual. Maybe that’s the real magic of this time of year: it doesn’t have to be about the big, splashy events. It can also be about the small details that make the season feel warm, cozy, and meaningful.
Whatever your December looks like—whether packed with parties or slower and more homebound—I hope you find ways to sprinkle in a little wonder.
