December has a way of sweeping us into its swirl of activity before we even notice—suddenly there are gatherings to plan, lights going up around the neighborhood, and a calendar that fills at light speed. And yet, beneath the rush, there’s an invitation to slow down and actually feel the magic. The other night, we lit a fire, made hot cocoa, and watched Home Alone with the kids. It was simple, and one of those moments that reminded me what I want this season to be about: presence, warmth, and a little wonder.
That’s the energy I’m carrying throughout the month: unrushed evenings, weekend baking projects, and space to enjoy the delights that only come around once a year. Because when we strip away the pressure, the season becomes so much more fun.
Our Editors’ December Picks for a Cozy Holiday Season
In that spirit, our editors are sharing their picks for a great December—the ideas, products, podcast episodes, movies, books, and small discoveries bringing us joy right now. Think of it as your curated guide to embracing the season with intention.
In Our Closets
Whipped Lounge Set
The drapiest, most luxurious lounge pants and Henley combo that I truly never want to take off this month. If a lounge set could feel like self-care, this is the one. Also obsessed with the whisper-thin tank I wear to bed and layer under sweaters. – Camille Styles, Editor-in-Chief
The Bag That Works for 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 the piece I reach for day after day. Yes, it’s an effortless crossbody, but it also transforms seamlessly into a polished top-handle bag, making it one of the most versatile accessories in my closet. The silhouette feels structured yet soft, minimal but still striking, and the leather looks far more luxe than its price tag suggests. It holds exactly what I actually carry (phone, keys, lip balm, wallet), and somehow works with everything—from oversized knits to tailored coats. It’s understated, functional, and elevates every outfit without trying. – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist
Timeless Basics I’m Living In
When a piece becomes a true staple, you feel it immediately—it slips into your wardrobe like it’s always belonged there. I keep reaching for these Elwood essentials that are inspired by vintage ’90s classics. This oversized crewneck is broken in with that perfect slouch. The core tee has just enough structure to hold its shape. And this perfect tank is so flattering and layers like a dream. – Camille Styles, Editor-in-Chief
A Bit of Sparkle, Perhaps
You guys know I’m a minimalist when it comes to jewelry, so this tiny strand with major sparkle is made for those who (like me) want to elevate a look with a little subtlety. This is a timeless piece (with an affordable price tag) that I’ll wear forever. – Brittany Chatburn, Marketing Director
The Softest Pieces I’ll Live In All Season
If you know me, you know this is my season. I’m leaning all the way into cozy—baking more, reading more, and giving my year-round Christmas tree her moment to shine. My wardrobe follows suit: I trade my usual structured silhouettes for pieces that feel as comforting as a slow Sunday morning. Enter: Aerie’s Offline Collection.
Everything from this line is softer than soft, but the standouts for me are the Fluff Love Full-Zip Jacket and the Real Me Xtra High-Waisted Leggings—both in the Deep Earth colorway (sadly no longer available for the former). Add in the matching longline sports bra and fleece crewneck, and it’s basically the chicest version of hibernation dressing I can imagine. These are the kinds of pieces that make you exhale the second you slip them on, and remind you that cozy can still look intentional. – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist
The Best Beanie
The perfect beanie that looks good on pretty much everyone. It’s made from a super soft mix of merino wool and alpaca with a little stretch. The natural camel and the heathered grey are my picks. – Brittany Chatburn, Marketing Director
So Comfortable, They Could be Loungewear
The Levi’s Low Loose Jeans are my current denim obsession. They sit low on the hips with a slouchy shape that feels modern, effortless, and incredibly flattering. Add a simple tee or a crisp button-down, and they instantly pull the whole look together—if you love that elevated, laid-back vibe, these belong in your rotation. – Tatom Hoffman, Marketing Intern
The Downtown Boot (plus two more pairs I’m obsessing over)
I’ve been living in these Downtown Boots—they’re sleek and pulled together, yet incredibly comfortable. Which means I wear it with everything: a cozy sweater dress, faded jeans, and a slip skirt for holiday dinners. Andddd I have to shout out two others (if I could only wear shoes from one brand, it would be Margaux rn).
The Roma is my elevated ballet flat for days when I want to look pulled together but can’t deal with real shoes. They give Audrey energy, but are so comfy. And The Inga—their collab with Alex Mill—is the kitten-heel boot I reach for when I want to feel a little dressed up without committing to a full heel moment. So good with wide-leg trousers.
If you’re building your winter shoe lineup (or just need something cute for holiday parties), these three have got you covered. – Camille Styles, Editor-in-Chief
In Our Bathrooms
To Treat Your Skin
Nothing is more satisfying than sloughing off dry skin at the end of the week. My everything shower isn’t complete without a body scrub, and this is the one in my current rotation. It smells incredible, has a satisfying grainy texture that really works, and leaves my skin hydrated and nourished when I step out of the shower. – Langa Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
The Ultimate Seasonal Candle
I’m a candle girlie, and I’m always buying more than I need. I can say with absolute certainty that this is the best fall candle I have ever burned. It smells like gingerbread and pumpkin spice and makes your home feel irresistibly cozy. – Langa Chinyoka, Beauty Editor
Your Favorite Lip Treat
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect lip balm all year. Too many formulas are either too sticky or too waxy and never actually deliver the deep hydration I’m after. Then I tried the Mango Butter Lip Balm from Mango People—and I’m officially obsessed. My love for all things mango is well documented around here, but beyond the subtle, delicious scent, the texture is what sold me. It’s unbelievably smooth and nourishing, leaving my lips buttery soft with just the right hint of gloss. I now have one tucked in every bag because being without it isn’t an option. – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Dry Skin, No More
What am I putting on my body 2x a day now that it’s November? Ursa Major’s Golden Hour Body Butter. It is LIQUID gold. Living in Colorado, my skin honestly wouldn’t survive without it. It’s insanely moisturizing but not greasy, smells amazing, and actually makes my dry winter skin feel soft all day. If you also live in a dry climate, you need this! – Edie Horstman, Wellness Editor
In Our Bedrooms
The Joy of Going to the Movies (Again)
I’ve always loved going to the movies, but this season it’s felt especially comforting. Maybe it’s the cold Portland nights or the fact that our cinemas truly are some of the best—but slipping into a dark theater has become one of my coziest rituals. I love the whole experience: settling into your seat, the lights dimming, that quiet wash of anticipation just before the story begins. Recently, I’ve seen Bugonia, Die My Love, Sentimental Value, Frankenstein, and The Mastermind—a wildly varied mix, each one made richer by watching it on the big screen.
Sure, you can stream almost anything at home. But there’s something about witnessing a film with other people—the shared laughter, the collective gasp, the gentle hush when the credits roll. It’s its own kind of intimacy: communal, grounding, and just a little bit magical. And yes, the snacks are still half the fun.
THE Blanket of the Season
If anything’s earned a permanent spot in my life, it’s my Lola Blanket. It’s never not draped over me while I’m working, reading, or lounging… she is that girl. – Anna Decker, Marketing and E-Commerce Manager
The Secret to Better Sleep
As a light sleeper, I used to think rest was something fragile—one passing train or opening door away from breaking. Then I found Loop earplugs, and honestly, they’ve changed everything. They turn noise into background texture—something distant, almost gentle—and have completely saved my sleep. As both a student and someone who works from home, I often find myself wearing them during the day now, helping me focus in the noisiest spots, from downtown coffee shops to crowded airports. – Casey McKee, Editorial Assistant
A Winter Bedding Refresh
Swapping our bedding for the colder months always feels like Christmas to me, and Cozy Earth’s Baja Quilt is the coziest! My husband and I love that it’s heavy enough for winter, but breathable enough to keep us cool. Pair with Cozy Earth’s bamboo sheets and you’re in heaven! – Kristin Garaffo, Design Editor
In Our Homes
The Washable Rug That Changed Everything
I’ve been on the hunt for a washable rug that can hold up to everything my life throws at it—dinners with friends, cats who think they own the place, and the inevitable kitchen spills that come with cooking often. This one is it. I ordered the Maude Washable Rug in the Rose and Papaya colorway (2.5×8’) for my kitchen, and it instantly transformed the space—playful, modern, but still soft enough to feel lived-in.
Cleanup is exactly as easy as the brand promises: peel off the top layer and toss it in the wash. No stress, no stains, no fuss. It’s one of those small home upgrades that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it. Now I want one for every room in the house. – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist
The Kitchen Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed
It’s the little tools in the kitchen that can really make or break my mood when prepping for dinner. And when something as simple as a really good vegetable peeler can make you enjoy cooking more, you know it’s something special. Every tool I own from Material Kitchen is as aesthetic as it is functional, and 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) The Day
Some pieces earn a permanent spot in your morning routine, and this is one of them. The Casa Zuma Ritual Mug has that perfectly imperfect, hand-thrown feel—the kind that makes your coffee taste just a little better. Its weight is grounding, its shape fits effortlessly in your hands, and the artisanal glaze reads quietly luxurious. – Camille Styles, Editor-in-Chief.
The Perfect Evening Sweet Treat
My evening sweet treat is my favorite part of the day, and I’m a big fan of making a bowl with a little bit of everything. (I like to think of it as a mini dessert charcuterie.) These tiny cookies from Tate’s are the perfect bite-sized treat—just as delicious on their own as on top of yogurt bowls or ice cream! – Suruchi Avasthi, Food Editor
Move Over, Uno
My mom loves jigsaw puzzles, especially in the wintertime, and I just filled her stash with a few Galison puzzles for the season. They have so many cute designs, like this holiday scene. I just love them! – Kristin Garaffo, Design Editor
Effortless Elegance for Your Table
I’ve learned that the dishes you reach for every day say a lot about how you want your home to feel—and the Canyon Essentials set quietly makes every meal feel intentional. The matte, earthy glaze brings a natural warmth to the table, while the clean, modern lines keep things feeling elevated without being precious. They’re sturdy enough for weeknight pasta, yet beautiful enough to anchor a dinner party spread. It’s the kind of dinnerware that blends seamlessly into any kitchen aesthetic, adding just a touch of understated sophistication. – Camille Styles, Editor-in-Chief
