December thrusts us into its vortex of activity without us even realizing it. Suddenly, there are meetings to plan, lights go on in the neighborhood, and calendars fill up at the speed of light. Still, beneath the rush is an invitation to slow down, and in fact feel magic. The other night we lit a fire and made some hot cocoa. home alone With the kids. It was simple and one of those moments that reminded me of what I’m looking for this season: presence, warmth, and a little wonder.
That’s the energy I’m carrying throughout this month. It’s a space for less hectic evenings, weekend baking projects, and the pleasures that only come once a year. Because when you take the pressure off, the season becomes a lot more fun.
Editor’s picks for December for a comfortable holiday season
In that spirit, we share our editors’ picks for a great December: ideas, products, podcast episodes, movies, books, and little discoveries that are bringing us joy right now. Think of it as our curated guide to enjoying the season with intention.
in our closet
whip lounge set
most luxurious curtains lounge with pants henry A combination you definitely don’t want to miss this month. If a lounge set feels like self-care, this is it. I’m also obsessed with Whisper-thin tank I also wear it to bed and layer it under my sweater. – Camille Stiles, Editor-in-Chief
A bag that goes with every outfit
I’ve always believed that the right bag can simplify an entire season. And this Italian leather trapeze crossbody from Quince has quietly become that bag. of This is a work that I can reach day after day. Yes, it’s a simple crossbody, but it also seamlessly transforms into a sleek top-handle bag, making it one of the most versatile accessories in my closet. The silhouette is structured yet soft, minimalist yet striking, and the leather looks much more luxurious than the price suggests. It holds exactly what I actually carry (phone, keys, lip balm, wallet) and goes with everything from oversized knits to tailored coats. Understated and functional, they effortlessly elevate any outfit. – Isabel Eyman, Editorial Strategist
The timeless basics I live by.
When an item becomes a true classic, you instantly feel it. It slips into your wardrobe as if it always belonged there. I keep reaching for Elwood essentials inspired by vintage 90s classics. this oversized crew neck I am used to having a perfect slouch. of core tea It has enough structure to maintain its shape. and this perfect tank It’s very flattering and has dreamy layers. – Camille Stiles, Editor-in-Chief
A little sparkle, perhaps
You guys know that I’m a minimalist when it comes to jewelry. This small thread with great shine teeth made For people (like me) who want to enhance their look with a little more subtlety. It’s a timeless item (at an affordable price) so you can wear it for a long time. – Brittany Chatburn, Marketing Director
The softest item for all-season comfort
If you know me, you know this is my season. I’m much more inclined toward a cozy lifestyle. Bake more bread, read more books, and give your Christmas tree moments to shine all year round. My wardrobe follows suit: change up my usual clothes. The structured silhouette makes this item feel as comfortable as a slow Sunday morning. input: Aerie offline collection.
Everything in this line is softer than soft, but what stands out to me is Fluff Love Full Zip Jacket and Real Me Xtra high waist leggings—Both are deep earth colors (unfortunately the former is no longer available). Add matching longline sports bra and fleece crew neckbasically the chicest version of hibernation attire I can imagine. These are the kinds of pieces that take your breath away the moment you put them on, reminding you that coziness can look intentional. – Isabel Eyman, Editorial Strategist
best beanie hat
of perfect beanie It looks good on almost anyone. Made from a super soft blend of merino wool and alpaca, it has a bit of stretch. Natural camel and heather gray are recommended. – Brittany Chatburn, Marketing Director
It’s so comfortable that it can also be used as room wear.
of Levi’s low loose jeans This is my current obsession with denim. The low-hip, slender shape is modern, effortless, and incredibly flattering. Adding a simple T-shirt or crisp button-down instantly pulls the whole look together. If you like a classy and relaxed vibe, add these to your rotation. – Tatum Hoffman, Marketing Intern
Downtown Boots (2 more pairs I’m obsessed with)
i went living Among these downtown boots– Sophisticated and put together, yet incredibly comfortable. That means I wear them with everything: cozy sweater dresses, faded jeans, and slip skirts for holiday dinners. And I have to mention two others (if I could only wear one brand of shoes it would be Margaux rn).
rome These are my next-level ballet shoes for those days when I want to make a proper impression but real shoes just don’t cut it. It gives Audrey energy but is very comfortable. and Inga—a collaboration with Alex Mill—are the kitten heel boots I reach for when I want to feel a little bit dressed up, if not a full heel. It also goes great with wide pants.
If you’re building your winter shoe lineup (or just need something cute for a holiday party), these three are all you need. – Camille Stiles, Editor-in-Chief
in our bathroom
How to take care of your skin
There’s nothing more satisfying than getting rid of dry skin at the end of the week. All my showers are not complete without a body scrub. this is it In my current rotation. It has a great scent and the satisfying granular texture really works, leaving my skin feeling hydrated and nourished when I get out of the shower. – Ranga Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
The ultimate seasonal candle
I love candles and always end up buying more than I need. I can say this with absolute certainty best autumn candles I’ve been burned. It smells like gingerbread and pumpkin spice, making your home feel irresistibly cozy. – Ranga Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
Favorite lip treatment
I’m on the hunt for the perfect lip balm all year round. Too many formulas are too sticky or too waxy to really provide the deep hydration I seek. Then I tried Mango People’s Mango Butter Lip Balm— and I’m officially hooked. My love for mangoes is well documented here, but beyond the delicate, delicious aroma, it was the texture that won me over. It’s incredibly smooth and nourishing, leaving lips buttery soft and with a hint of shine. I now shove one in every bag because I can’t live without it. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Dry skin, no more
Now that it’s November, what am I applying to my body twice a day? Ursa Major’s Golden Hour Body Butter. It’s liquid gold. Living in Colorado, my skin honestly can’t live without it. It’s super moisturizing, non-greasy, smells great, and makes my dry winter skin feel soft all day long. This is necessary if you live in a dry climate. – Edie Horstman, Wellness Editor
in our bedroom
The joy of going to the movies (again)
I’ve always loved going to the movies, but this season feels especially good. Maybe it’s the cold nights in Portland, or maybe it’s the fact that Portland movie theaters are truly the best, but slipping into a darkened theater has become one of my coziest rituals. I love this whole experience. You take your seat, the lights dim, and there’s a quiet sense of anticipation just before the story begins. I saw it recently, Bugonia, Die My Love, sentimental value, frankensteinand Mastermind— a very diverse mix, each one enriched by seeing it on the big screen.
Sure, you can stream almost anything at home. But there’s something about watching movies with other people. The shared laughter, the collective gasps, the peaceful silence as the end credits roll. It’s a kind of intimacy, community, grounding, and just a little bit magical in itself. Yes, snacking is only half the fun.
seasonal blanket
If anything has achieved eternal status in my life, it’s mine roller blanket. Whether I’m working, reading, or relaxing, it never falls over me…she’s that girl. – Anna Decker, Marketing and E-Commerce Manager
The secret to better sleep
As a light sleeper, I thought rest was something fragile, like letting a train pass or opening a door so it wouldn’t break. then i found loop earplugsTo be honest, they changed everything. They turned the noise into a background texture (something distant, almost gentle) and completely saved me sleep. As a student and work-from-home worker, I often wear this during the day, and it’s helped me stay focused in the noisiest places, from downtown coffee shops to crowded airports. – Casey McKee, Editorial Assistant
Refresh your winter bedding
Changing bedding during the cold season always feels like Christmas to me. The Cozy Earth Baja Quilt is super cozy. My husband and I both love that it’s the perfect weight for winter, yet breathable enough to keep you cool. pair with Cozy Earth bamboo sheets And you are in heaven! – Kristin Garaffo, Design Editor
at our house
The washable rug that changed everything
I was looking for a washable rug that could withstand everything life throws at me: dinners with friends, a cat who thinks he owns the place, and the inevitable kitchen spills that come with frequent cooking. This is it. What I ordered was mode washable rug When I brought the Rose and Papaya colorway (2.5 x 8 feet) into my kitchen, it instantly transformed the space. It’s playful and modern, yet soft enough to feel lived-in.
Cleaning is as easy as the brand claims. Just peel off the top layer and toss it in the washing machine. No stress, no mess, no hassle. It’s one of those little home upgrades that will make you wonder how you ever lived without it. Now I want one in every room in my house. – Isabel Eyman, Editorial Strategist
Kitchen tools you didn’t know you needed
It’s the little tools in your kitchen that can make or break your mood when preparing dinner. And when something as simple as: really good vegetables Using a peeler is something special that makes cooking more fun. All of my Material Kitchen tools are as beautiful as they are functional. This peeler is the latest in my collection that I’m obsessed with. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Your new favorite way to start (and end) your day
Some pieces become a part of my morning routine and this is one of them. of Casa Zuma Ritual Mug It has a perfectly imperfect, hand-thrown feel that makes the coffee taste just that little bit better. It has a stable weight, its shape fits comfortably in your hand, and the artisanal glaze quietly speaks of luxury. – Camille Stiles, Editor-in-Chief.
perfect evening sweet snack
Sweet snacks at night are my favorite time of the day and I love making bowls with little bits of different things. (I like to think of this as a mini-dessert charcuterie.) Tate’s little cookie The perfect bite-sized snack. It’s equally delicious on its own or on top of a yogurt bowl or ice cream. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Please move, Uno.
My mom loves jigsaw puzzles, especially in the winter, and I’ve just stuffed a few into her stash. garrison puzzle According to the season. There are many cute designs like holiday scenes. I just love them! – Kristin Garaffo, Design Editor
Add subtle elegance to your table
I’ve learned that the tableware you use every day has a huge impact on the atmosphere you want in your home. canyon essentials The quiet setting makes every meal feel intentional. The matte, rustic glaze brings a natural warmth to the table, and the clean, modern lines make it feel classy rather than precious. It’s sturdy enough for weeknight pasta, yet beautiful enough to liven up a dinner party. It’s the kind of tableware that blends seamlessly into any kitchen aesthetic and adds a touch of understated sophistication. – Camille Stiles, Editor-in-Chief
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
