As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.
I love an ‘Aprés Ski’ style sweater this time of year – from something that literally spells it out to more classic fair isle or fun novelty knits like the snowflake one I’m wearing here. They feel like December to me. Here – a few of my favorites that would make a great gift or just something cozy for yourself now that it’s cold.
SHOP APRÉS SKI SWEATERS:
To me, there’s nothing quite like the gift of a book. And at a time when many of us could use an escape, a good cry or a good laugh or something to inspire us – books can provide that. So without further ado – A Very Bookish Gift Guide for 2020. There are mistletoe-filled romances and challenging literary novels, books for parents, partners and friends – and yourself of course. Nearly 50 of them in total!
Disclosure: If you’re able to purchase these from your local bookstores please do so! I’ve also linked everything on Bookshop.org which is an awesome resource that supports indie stores across the country. However, in the product carousels below the images link to Amazon – as it was the best way for me to show all the covers.
Click to the next page for all of my recommendations!
First, a few disclosures. If you’re not in a position to shop this holiday season, please skip ahead. I hate the way that Black Friday sales can feel like they pressure you to buy all the things. It’s perfectly okay to tune it out. That being said – I’ve still got a small handful of gifts to buy and I’m also using this weekend as a chance to buy myself some basics that I need and have been setting aside money for – knowing that they’d go on sale right now. So that’s my approach.
And lastly, I’m going to be sharing 10 great NYC-based small businesses tomorrow to consider. I encourage you to try and come up with a shopping strategy this holiday season that includes small businesses – here in New York or in your own local community. They truly need the support more than ever right now.
Okay – on with the show. Here are the online sales I’m shopping this weekend and what I plan on picking up:
Aerie (40% Off, Free Shipping + 10 for $35 undies): Aerie is my go-to for everyday undies and you can’t beat the price of these right now. Some of the novelty prints skew a little young, but I just go for the solids.
Anthropologie (30% Off Sitewide): I’ll likely be looking for a few unique gifts here and I haven’t fully decided on those yet – mainly because I keep getting distracted by this Grecian bust plant pot and their selection of Christmas tree ornaments.
Boden (30% Off Womenswear): I really love this British brand for classic, quality pieces. I have my eye on this corduroy blazer, these wide leg pants and these jeans. All pieces that I know I’ll wear and love for a long time to come.
J.Crew (50% Off Sitewide + 60% Off Sale): Another one of my favorite go-to places for the pieces that I wear everyday. I am grabbing a fresh white button down shirt and maybe trying these vintage-look faded black jeans.
Sandro Paris (40% Off Sitewide): I have swooned over pieces from this French brand for ages and this sale finally has things in a somewhat attainable price range for me. It’s still a bit of a splurge compared to my usual purchases but this dress is a forever piece to me and between the classic fit and the ‘S’ (for Sandro.. but also Steele!) embroidery – I think I may finally finally treat myself to it.
Talbots (50% Off Sitewide + Free Shipping): You guys know how much I love Talbots for classic, well-made, everyday pieces. I plan on picking up this reversible leather belt and another one of these cotton turtlenecks (I love that the neck doesn’t scrunch down too much).
True & Co (20% Off Sitewide): Why does buying bras always feel like such a pain? I’m determined to have a drawer full of ones I actually like and this underwire free, smoothing, long-line bra has great reviews.
WHAT I’M BUYING:
FAVORITES I OWN, NOW ON SALE:
(Sweater shown above is 50% off here)
If we’re being honest – I’m still coming to terms with the fact that this holiday season will have more occasion for leggings and far less for sequins. So in an effort to balance being comfortable and cozy at home but also still feeling a bit festive, I came up with 10 outfit ideas that will be perfect for the season ahead. Lots of relaxed denim, cozy sweaters and simple styling. Hopefully this inspires you to find a new piece or two that will make the holidays feel special or wear something you already own in a new way. The full IGTV video is here and all outfit details are below.
I’m not a leggings person at all but this pair is a 10/10. Super high waisted, totally opaque and they don’t stretch out throughout the day. Pair with sequins and slippers or a cute ski sweater and comfy boots.
LOOK 1 (Above Left):
LOOK 2 (Above Right):
This headband and velvet hair bow get a lot of wear whether I’m staying home or out and about. Pair with extra plaid or a chic, metallic vest.
LOOK 3 (Above Left):
LOOK 4 (Above Right):
This black crewneck is a great base layer. Pair with a mini skirt and tights or with lace trousers and a leopard scarf.
LOOK 5 (Above Left):
LOOK 6 (Above Right):
A pop of plaid always works – whether tossed on over a velvet tank or as a finishing touch with a bright sweater dress.
LOOK 7 (Above Left):
LOOK 8 (Above Right):
Navy and red is a favorite combo this time of year – and again, clearly, plaid. A cotton turtleneck paired with a plaid button down or a classic pajama set with a cute headband.
LOOK 9 (Above Left):
LOOK 10 (Above Right):