Lately

This handbag is on repeat through 12/25! 

Cozy lounge top and bottom! 

The prettiest ribbon and gift tags! 

Hen waiting patiently at the vet. He loves it there! 

Hope you are all having a wonderful week! It's a busy one for me as I have a lot on the calendar.  We went out to dinner and to see Stella Cole at City Winery on Tuesday night. My mom loves Stella Cole, but I didn't really know much about her. Well, I am her newest fan. She is a singer and SO talented. She sounds very similar to Judy Garland, and I couldn't believe that she is only 26! 

Tonight I have a girlfriend's yearly holiday party where you bring a holiday home decor gift, and it's kind of like white elephant, where you have it wrapped and open one by one, and can steal, and that kind of thing! It's always nice to get together with gals I don't often see! 

 

We also have fun, festive plans for tomorrow night, which I am really looking forward to. I'm hoping we can carve out some time on Saturday or Sunday to drive around and look at lights. That is one of my favorite things to do!

Poor Henry has an ear infection, but we caught it very early, so it wasn't bad, and he is already on the mend and seems much better! He has never had one before, so I'm hoping this was just a one-off thing! I love our vet- they are all so kind and really thorough. 

I'm so looking forward to taking a holiday break between Christmas and New Year's. I don't feel as burnt out as I usually do by now, which is great, but I really enjoy taking time away from screens. I think it is so freeing!  

If you are still shopping for gifts, I'm going to leave my gift guides here for you to check out! The shipping cutoffs will roll out over the next few days, so keep an eye out! 

2025 Gift Guides:

- Host and Hostess

- My Wish List

- Gifts for Her Under $100

- For Him

- Curated by Mom

- For the Cool Girl

- Splurge-Worthy 

- Stocking Stuffers/Gifts Under $50

 

Faux Fur Wrap// Crewneck Sweater

Belt (mine is from last year, but linking similar)// Sequin Skirt (It's VV but sold out, so linking similar)

Booties// Red Leather Gloves

Wearing: This is what I wore to Stella Cole earlier this week! It was SO cold, which always throws a wrench into outfit plans, especially when downtown, because a bit of walking is sometimes necessary. I was able to wear these Booties, which I have had for many years and love to wear with dressy outfits in the winter, because I can wear cozy socks. I also wore a simple, plain black long-sleeve tee underneath the sweater for an added layer, which helped a lot! I was warm and comfortable while still feeling festive, so I consider that winter outfit a success! 

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

Eating: My social media algorithms have been filled with Cheesecake Factory reviews. I hadn't been in ages, so my mom and I went, and my goodness, it did not disappoint. I don't know why I ever stopped going!!! It was delightful. We got the cobb salad and chicken katsu bowl and split them. Their portions are huge, so we weren't in the mood for dessert, but I got a slice of the Oreo cheesecake to-go to split with my husband, and I nearly shed a tear of joy when I ate it. It was SO good. I'm not even a big cheesecake person. It was definitely sweet, but you could still really taste the cheesecake's tart flavor, and it had the perfect texture. It was beyond decadent and such a treat. It's a blessing and a curse that there is no Cheesecake Factory conveniently located near me, ha! 

Sale: If you are a Sephora Beauty Insider, you can get 20% off with code SAVEGIFTS through 12/14, but it's a *one-time* use! 

Watching: This weekend, I watched Miracle on 34th Street (the 1994 remake), and I was FLOORED that so many of you didn't know about this movie! Of course, the original is a classic, but the '90s remake is SO good. Even one of my girlfriends texted me after watching it, saying she had never seen it, but she loved it so much! If you have not watched it, add it to your list. The outfits, the sets, and the storyline are all so warm and festive. It's quintessentially '90s but also has a lot of late '40s details to pay homage to the original. 

Eyeshadow

Loving: I bought a bunch of DIBS makeup because I love all of the products I already used. One of the things I got was this eyeshadow palette, and it is so pretty! Although some of the colors are dark, most of them are subtle. I love the bottom right dark color because I use that to line my eyes- it gives a really natural look compared to a pencil.

Boots

Loving: I just got these boots in the mail this week, and I love them. They were one of my Cyber Week purchases! I love the color and the lug sole! 

Wanting: Love this fair isle crewneck in the blue colorway. Speaking of Fair Isle, this one is so good, too! If you are heading to a New Year's Eve party or hosting one, these tinsel headbands are adorable! Drooling over this handbag and it's under $300! This tartan shirt is holiday party perfection. When I originally saw this scarf, I assumed it was Hermes, but it's under $100! The most perfect pearl- embellished shoes! A gorgeous houndstooth coat. This pair of denim looks perfect. I love the Roller Rabbit 12 days of printmas where they launch a new print daily... fun! This serving platter is beautiful and on sale for under $30. I can't believe a few colors of this scarf are still in stock. They usually sell out in minutes! An adorable ski hat that would be a perfect gift! A very elegant cream coat. The perfect little skirt for New Year's Eve! The most random thing in today's blog post, but I LOVE it. 

Amazon Rec: I just reordered my go-to physical exfoliant. It's inexpensive, gentle yet effective, and a tube lasts forever. I could not recommend it more! It could be a fun little stocking stuffer for a skincare lover! 

You can find more of my Amazon favorites, here on my Amazon page where I am constantly updating it with all of my finds and top picks from home, beauty, fashion, and more!

Fragrance

Smelling: This perfume is from the same brand that makes my favorite foundation of all time. It made Oprah's favorites list, too. It's a very light scent that smells clean and crisp, but it is supposed to smell different on everyone because it adjusts to each person's pH. I love it. I ordered my mom a bottle because I thought she would love it, too (shhh, don't tell her!!)

Traveling: With how cold it has been lately, I'm already looking ahead to our Florida trip in February/March. We are spending a few weeks in the 30A area, and I cannot wait! If you have any recs, especially during that time of year, please let me know! I have been a handful of times, but it has been quite a few years since I've been! 

Quoting: 'With mirth and laughter, let old wrinkles come.'- Shakespeare// See more of my favorites, here.

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you). 

Chic Faux Fur Winter Coats Under $500

Faux Fur Cape Jacket

I’ve been reaching for faux fur nonstop this season, and I’m so impressed with how far the category has come. Remember back in the day (aka 2012), when some faux fur just looked dull and would become matted after just a season of wear? Not only that, but they would never provide substantial warmth! The faux fur fabrics look incredibly realistic now. Even better, they keep me warm, too! Regardless of price range, they all seem so plush, luxe, and high-quality. Today I’m rounding up three faux fur coats I’ve been wearing on repeat. They’re all under $500, beautifully made, and the kind of timeless, throw-on pieces you will want to wear for years to come. 

This Faux Fur Cape Jacket is so elegant over a cocktail dress or party outfit, but you can still dress it down with jeans and boots! I love the variation in textures and the way the collar frames the face. It's completely timeless.

Long Faux Fur Coat (there is a short version, too!)

This coat makes me feel like an '80s/'90s mom in a holiday movie. Kevin's mom would have worn something like this... IYKYK! It looks and feels like real mink. It's gorgeous, but it's also functional because it truly provides warmth. You can wear it wth or without the belt. I love it both ways. The quality is perfect. It's lined with a satin material, just like a real fur would be, and features hook-and-loop closures, too! It runs true to size. I am wearing a size small, and there is room to layer a heavier sweater underneath. Try code YOUROCK or YOURULE for 20% off (sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't). 

Reversible Brown Faux Fur Jacket (this one is very similar)

I'd been wanting a short faux fur coat for a while to wear more casually. Sometimes a longer coat can be cumbersome in certain situations, and what I especially love about this one is that it is reversible. On one side, as you see above, is fully faux fur. The opposite side is faux suede. I love reversible pieces because they make packing for winter travel so much easier! 

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).

My Go-To Winter Accessories

Hat

It has been frigid here since Thanksgiving, and while cold weather is no surprise in Pittsburgh, this stretch has been colder than usual. I’ve already had to break out all my winter gear a bit earlier than I’d like. Even though freezing temps are the norm, I won’t lie: it does put a damper on party season. It’s tough to slip into a pretty cocktail dress with heels when you have to factor in the walk, the wind, the snow, the salt, etc. Plus, I still like to try to get outside at least several times per week with Henry, and when it is frigid, it can be a bit miserable! 

Anyway, I thought I would share some tips for staying warm as I've learned a lot over the years as a born and raised Pittsburgher. 

My quick tips are:

- Keep your extremities covered! Keeping those covered and insulated will make a world of a difference. I will put on warmer socks and even a hat inside if I am sitting at my desk and get cold. A hat and warm socks often help more than a sweater does even when in indoors. 

- Reducing your skin's exposure to the wind is half the battle! 

- You want to avoid wetness at all costs which is why it is so important to have moisture-wicking winter gear. 

- Mittens over gloves if you are prioritzing warmth! This is because your fingers are kept together and can hold in heat better. 

- If you will be outside for a longer time period, use hand warmers! You truly don't need to be miserable and the packets cost very little! I keep a stash of them in my ski bag so I always have them on hand. 

And, of course this wouldn't be a post without a little fashion content!  I’m sharing a handful of winter accessories I can’t go without during these icy weeks. 

Hat

This faux fur hat is what inspired this post! I recently snagged this, and it has been one of the best purchases! You won't believe the low price and where it is from- a place I'd never think of for hats! What I particularly love about this hat compared to others I have is that it covers my ears and the sides of my face. It keeps me significantly warmer than any other hat that I have because it blocks out the wind from more angles. It's also lined in fleece, so the inside is soft and cozy. This is also one of the cuter items on the list. It feels fun, fashionable, and less utilitarian than my other recs! I included this hat in yesterday's under $50 gift guide.

Down Mittens (they have a matte version if you don't like the glossy look!)

The amount of research I’ve done on mittens and gloves is honestly a little ridiculous, but with Henry, I have to be outside daily, so I am always looking for whatever there is to keep me as warm as possible. These are THE gloves I wear daily. I have technical ski gloves (not down) and plenty of fashion-forward pairs that offer little to no insulation, but it's down gloves that will truly keep you warm and make such a difference. 

Actual goose down (not just feathers) gloves are surprisingly hard to find. Try searching, and you’ll come up short. And when you do find them, they’re usually $$$. Canada Goose is charging $200ish for basically the same thing as these! Enter these: real down gloves for under $60. I would pay that again and again because they’re that good. The inside has the softest fleece lining, and they’re unbelievably cozy. They make freezing temperatures totally bearable. I also love the little clip on the side so you can snap them together and not lose one. My mom has these, too! 

Fleece Gaiter (use code SYDNEY20)

This is a scarf/gaiter hybrid because it is not as tight around the neck as a traditional ski gaiter; instead, it's loose and a bit chunkier. Because of that, it's a bit cumbersome, which is why I would not wear it skiing. However, it's the PERFECT layer to block out the wind and feel so soft around my face. I prefer this over a ski gaiter most days because if I have makeup on, it doesn't rub against it since there is space. I also love that it can just be tossed in the washing machine. This is several years old, so mine looks a bit different, but it's the same concept. If I wear this and the trapper hat, basically all that is exposed to the cold on my entire body are my eyes and nose! 

Ugg Mini Boots

I can'ty imagine life without my Ugg boots! I know Uggs are divisive but they are SO warm and comfortable. They're what I slip on most of the time on winter walks with Henry as long as it is not wet or snowy outside. I know the ultra mini are more 'in', however, they're just not practical for me because I need that ankle coverage! 

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers Under $50

Slippers// Needleopint Ornament// Makeup Brush Bag// Lip Liner

Earrings// Martini Claw Clip// Kitchen Shears

Wildflower Honey

Golf Towel// Scent Trio Set// Needlepoint Hat

Clear Cosmetic Bag// Bandana Scarf

In today's gift guide, I'm sharing under $50 gift ideas that can also double as stocking stuffers. The stocking is the *best* part of Christmas, in my opinion! There are two gift guides left: my second wish list and last-minute gift ideas! My last blog post of the year will be on 12/23, and I will be back to regular posting on Monday, January 5th! 

To give you an idea of shipping cutoffs, keep in mind 12/14-17 (that's Sunday-next Wednesday) are around when brands and companies start their shipping cutoffs for Christmas arrival! I truly cannot believe there are only 3 full weeks left of 2025!

Because there are nearly 40 items in today's list, I am going to only highlight a few from each collage. I know no one wants to read 40 different mini reviews! 

Slippers// These are the best travel slippers that don't add bulk or weight to your suitcase. I find myself wearing them over my socks while at home when my feet get particularly cold! They make them for men, women, and children!

Lip Liner// I'm not a lip liner gal, but I do like trying ones that are the exact shade of my lips to create a very subtle, plumper lip. I really loved the Merit lip liner, but this one takes the cake. It's SO easy to apply and lasts longer than the Merit. I wear the color opal. 

Wildflower Honey// My husband loves honey, so we have many different kinds in our pantry. However, this is the first time I've raved about a honey as I'm not a big honey lover. I find honey to be sickeningly sweet, but this honey is sweet without that syrupy flavor. This tastes so bright and fresh with a deep flavor. I LOVE it on a cheeseboard or added into a marinade or dressing. It's fantastic. I lick the spoon after using it! I always think a gourmet food item makes the best gift. I personally love receiving interesting foods, condiments, etc. 

Bandana Scarf// If you have a lot of young, trend-aware gals on your list, I think this is the perfect thing. This bandana scarf comes in many colors. I bought it to scratch the itch on the bandana trend, and I really love it. It's more versatile than I thought! 

Contuor + Blush Duo// Spray Hand Sanitizer// White Tee// Body Cream// Candle

Dry Shampoo// Personalized Mini Hair Brush// Eyelash Curler// All-Purpose Wipe Starter Kit

Laundry Detergent// Lip Treatment// Hair Cream Wand// Cutting Boards

Contuor + Blush Duo// This or ANY Dibs brand product. I love them all!!! They all blend like a dream and the colors are so beautiful. I already had the mascara on my wish list and restocked it during their Cyber Week sale, so I chose the contour and blush stick, which is probably my #1 favorite item from Dibs. One stick lasts a very long time! 

White Tee// At just under $15, this is the best classic white tee. The quality is SO good and 100% cotton. 

All-Purpose Wipe Starter Kit// This company makes sleek-looking storage canisters for their all-purpose wipes. The wipes are 'clean' and can be used on your skin or surfaces. They make a large size for the home and a smaller size for on-the-go. I have and love both, but find the on-the-go canister to be the most worth it! They have different canister colors so you can select one that matches your surroundings. I got the dune color, and if you have a tan interior car, this color will blend right in. I use this to wipe down my phone a lot while in the car. I also use this on my hands after every Orange Theory Class or grocery store run. They're soooo clutch to have on hand on road trips to wipe up spills or food messes. It makes me feel good to use these since they have cleaner ingredients than some other household wipe brands. 

Dry Shampoo// This is the best dry shampoo EVER. Period. No notes. The powder is so fine and seems to just disappear once dusted into the hair with the brush. 

Laundry Detergent// This is a bit pricey compared to grocery store brands, but my goodness, it's the best scent. It makes my laundry smell like a fancy hotel. It smells more like a luxury perfume than the 'fresh linen' scent most detergents have. I would call this a little luxury, and I think those make the best kind of gifts. 

Face Mist// Fleece Gloves// Faux Fur Hat// Dental Floss

Glasses/Sunglasses Holder// Volumizing Hair Product

Grip Socks// Glass Nut/Condiment Bowl 

Phone Case// Posture Corrector// Socks// White Vinegar

Faux Fur Hat// I just got this, and not only is it so fun and adorable, but it was also the best price I've ever seen on these trapper-style hats. It's also incredibly warm and comfortable to wear. It's lined with fleece, so it's soft against hair and skin! 

 Posture Corrector// This is one of the few items I don't personally own but would like to! You wear this for a few hours a day, and it is supposed to help with posture. You start off slowly, only wearing it for a short while, and work your way up. It has thousands of positive reviews. In this day and age, everyone is hunched over electronics. This could be so beneficial for many, including myself! 

Glasses/Sunglasses Holder// This is a pretty case to hold glasses or sunglasses on a tabletop. It's lined with a velvet-like material to keep the lenses from being scratched. You could use this on a desk or a nightstand, but the way I've been using it is that I have them in the door of my car on the driver's side, and I can access my sunglasses so quickly and easily, and don't have to fumble with a case or the little dropdown box while I am driving. Plus, I was able to pick a color that blends in with my interior. They are slightly weighted at the bottom, so they really stay put.  

2025 Gift Guides:

- Host and Hostess

- My Wish List

- Gifts for Her Under $100

- For Him

- Curated by Mom

- For the Cool Girl

- Splurge-Worthy 

2024 Gift Guides:

- For the Host and Hostess

- My Wish List

- Under $100

- Men's shoes and clothing

- For the Men

- Under $50 Stocking Stuffers

- $100+ Splurge for Her

- Curated by my mom!

- My Wish List Part II

- Last Minute Gifts with Prime Delivery

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).