I’m a Fashion Editor, and These are the Holiday Gifts I’m Getting My Family and Friends
Nap dresses, carb-praising socks, and undies that make me feel like Paris Hilton.
As a fashion editor, I have the enormous luck of being able to work with some of my favorite clothing, shoe, and accessories brands. Another massive perk is that sometimes I even get to try their pieces for free. Because of this, I’ve been able to discover new brands I love and also find out that some of the most popular brands are, errr, a bit over-rated. As such, I feel confident recommending products to my friends and family whenever they go shopping.
For the holiday season, instead of telling you what to gift, I’m sharing the fashion gifts I’m buying for some of the people I love the most. This year, I fell in love with several sustainable fashion brands, incredibly comfy and cute nap dresses, and elevated basics that make me look like a million bucks. Of course, I want to share what I love with the people I love the most, and if you want fool-proof gifts for your fashion-loving friend, I couldn’t recommend these products more. Here’s what I’m shopping for this holiday season.
1. Croissant hoops
Ok, while technically these aren’t French pastries, their texturized consistency takes these hoop earrings from basic to luxe. I bought mine on Black Friday after having had them on my wish list for months, and I know that they’ll be cherished by my friends who like a subtly jazzed-up ear moment.
2. Not-your-basic loungewear
2020 has been the year of the sweatpants, and TBH, I don’t see that trend going anywhere anytime soon. Loungewear is going to be around for a while, so if you want to upgrade from your old leggings and t-shirt, opt for this structured set instead. The Athena Sweater goes perfectly with the brand’s Kendal Pant, and it’ll go so well in your closet, too.
3. Wear your heart on your ankles
There are two things I love in life: carbs and warm socks. This pair is the perfect combination of the things that bring me joy, especially during the winter, and despite what you may have heard, everyone loves getting socks over the holidays.
4. Tried-and-true slides
You can’t go wrong with a pair of Birkenstocks. Last year, I bought the plastic pair that I wore all summer, so this year I leveled up and bought the classic cork and suede Birkenstock slides. Since buying them, I’ve rarely taken them off. They have great arch support, they’re durable, and the straps can be adjusted to fit your feet with or without socks (TMI?). Anyway, these are great and everyone should own a pair.
5. Nostalgic throw-back
Parade is my go-to brand for sustainable underwear. The pieces are super cute and comfy, and I love that 1% of its sales go to Planned Parenthood. Even more, the brand teams up with other fun companies, like Juicy Couture, to collaborate on limited-edition pieces. This set comes with a velour pouch (inspired by the iconic tracksuits, duh), a boy-short, brief, high-rise thong, cheeky underwear, and a silk scarf. It’ll make you feel like Paris Hilton circa 2000s, and you’ll love it.
6. Texturized cashmere
Summersalt isn’t just for swimsuits—the brand offers incredibly high-quality clothing, too. Right now, I’m really loving its funnel neck cashmere sweater since it’s texturized, which gives it a more interesting look than your typical pull-over. It’s available in five very wearable colors, like this toffee, so there’s plenty to choose from.
7. Breathable face mask
Calling all sporty people! If you’ve struggled over the past few months to find a breathable face mask that you can actually run in, consider this your holiday miracle. It uses waterproof and antimicrobial textiles to both keep you dry through the sweat and protect you from COVID-19. It also has super-specific sizes, so it fits just right. I’ve gone through multiple trial-and-errors to find the best activewear face mask, and this one is so good that I bought it for my sister.
8. Easy, breezy, beautiful nap dress
I had never been a nap dress girl until I tried this lightweight piece. I’m a complete convert. Not only do I feel like I could replace Keira Knightley in any of her films, but it’s the most comfortable thing to wear to bed when it’s warm. I love how delicate and feminine it is with its lace details.
9. Designer coat for less
When I heard that fashion designer J.W. Anderson had teamed up with Uniqlo for a limited edition collection, I was over the moon. The Irish designer brought his classic and gender-bending designs to Uniqlo, and yes, I’ve shopped both the men’s and women’s sections of this collection. (Screw gendered fashion, anyway.) My favorite piece from the collection has been this belted coat, though, and I’ve found myself snuggling into it as I walk through the frigid streets of New York. In it, I feel warm and stylish, and I know I’ll use this piece for years to come.
