Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Gift Guide: For the Cool Girl


If you’re new here, meet my sister, Callie. She’s four years younger than I am. She is trendier and always ahead of the curve. We’re incredibly close, but our personal tastes tend to be different, though as she gets older, the more we align on tastes. Callie is into pop culture, travel, makeup, and cooking. She dresses more casually than I do, somehow always knows the it sneaker of the moment, and always knows what's going on in Hollywood. Her home style is an eclectic mix of mid-century, bohemian, and traditional that she pulls together beautifully. She’s creative, honest, and loyal to her core.

One of my favorite stories about her: when we were little, an older group of neighborhood kids popped my blow-up toy ball just to be mean. Callie, who was maybe four years old, marched over and scolded them on my behalf. She’s been sticking up for me ever since.

Callie lives in North Carolina with her husband and their pup, Bean. Callie and her husband are high school sweethearts. She is one of the first people I run things by because she is never afraid to tell it like it is. For this guide, I asked her to send me things she personally loves, would recommend, or would gift, so everything here is pulled straight from her list.

I know not everyone shares my taste, and it can be challenging to shop for people whose style differs from your own. So think of this as the 'cool girl' gift guide. Callie-curated, sister-approved! 

Here are the current guides so far, and I've also linked the 2024 guides at the bottom of this post, which remain relevant this year.


You can also find all of my gift guides on ShopMy! This is all according to my sister, so here it goes!

Underwear// The best underwear. It stays put and doesn't show through. These are true to size. 

Photo Travel Jewelry Case// The photo is a unique touch, and so is the shape of the case. 

Cardigan// The best cardigan. We both have this and love it! It runs roomy. 

Red Shimmer Socks// Fun socks that come in many colors. I love collecting socks. 

Perfume// The 'Absolu' is their deeper scent category, but you could also do a discovery box if you are new to the brand. Sydney loves Bal d'Afrique. 

Anti-aging Body Gift Set// This has been on my list to try for a while! It's an anti-aging body lotion, and for the holidays, they have it in a gift set! 

Small Gold Hoop Earrings// I wear the size small earrings daily. They are the perfect size and so simple and classic. They are currently on sale for 30% off. 

Crossbody Bag// I have been looking for something to carry instead of a Lulu fanny pack or Uniqlo moon bag, and I love the look of this crossbody. 

Clear Lip Balm// My favorite lip balm. It's so smooth and gives you a little shine. 

Wood Cutting Boards// Beautiful and functional cutting boards. 

Pajama Set// My favorite pajamas outside of Roller Rabbit and Lake. They are so soft and comfortable and come in many colors. 


Face Masks// It's funny that these face masks are on the list, because Sydney has had them in her cart for months and just hasn't purchased them! This is her sign. They are amazing if you have a few hours to spare. They are so hydrating and give you a good glow. 

1000 Piece Puzzle// I love puzzles and have collected many over the years. This brand is my favorite. I love that sometimes they even curate playlists to go with some of the puzzles. 

Pajamas// My all-time favorite pajamas! Sydney and I both love this pajama brand. We also both love collecting pajama sets and lounging in pajamas... we always have! 

Reed Diffuser// You can't go wrong with this entire brand. I love everything, especially the hand soap, but Sydney had already featured it in one of her gift guides, so I opted for the reed diffuser, which comes in a beautiful, ribbed glass vessel. The Miami scent is my favorite. 

Body Wash// It looks like there is going to be a S+S product on every one of Sydney's guides this year. I can't get enough of the body wash. Bergamot and Hinoki is my favorite. Anything from this brand makes the best gift. Sydney's discount code is SYDNEYS15 for 15% off. 

Cream Blush Set// I love WA blushes and have collected a few colors. They are subtle and easy to apply. 

Shoulder Bag// I got this bag when my mom and Sydney were in town in the spring, and I have enjoyed carrying it. It's something that goes with everything and elevates any outfit. 

Sunglasses// I've really been into this brand lately. The sunglasses are pricey, but they have unique styles. 

iPad Keyboard// This is one of the best purchases I have ever made! If you have an iPad and travel, get this! 

Buffing Brush + Complexion Brush// These are great makeup brushes. I particularly like that the handles are shorter in length, which makes them more compact for traveling. 


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 can 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).
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Monday, November 17, 2025

Gift Guide: Curated by Mom


My mom, whom I affectionately call Sizzle, is in her 60s, and her taste is similar to mine in many ways. She worked in banking before she had children. Then, once she had kids, she was a stay-at-home mom. Around the time my sister was in college, my mom went back to work in banking, retired a few years ago, and is thriving, living the retirement lifestyle. 

She is a wonderful woman who does not like a lot of 'stuff' and never really wants anything. She just loves her family and is happiest when we can all do things together! She is kind, thoughtful, and always there for my sister and me. She loves spending time with my dad and has a busy social life with many friends and a full calendar. She is so social; I am often exhausted just hearing how full her social calendar is, ha!

She enjoys traveling, entertaining, and loves her pup, Buddy. She loves to walk, is in a bowling league with my dad and friends, and skis even though she does *not* like to be cold. She is a great cook, is on our club's membership committee, loves to dance and attend parties and events, and is a very vivacious woman. She is gracious and empathetic, but also knows how to stand firm in who she is and her beliefs. I admire her so much for this! She is the one who introduced me to my love of Taco Bell (she loves the Mexican Pizza). And, just like me, she is also a bubbly and martini enthusiast. 

Here are the current guides so far, and I've also linked the 2024 guides at the bottom of this post, which remain relevant this year.

2025 Gift Guides:

Now, let's get into the guides. For guides. I don't double up. For example, you'll see the Red Light Mask in this gift guide. I also love it and would typically add it to my splurge-worthy gift guide, but since it's included in this guide, it won't be featured in a future guide. Another example would be that my mom wanted to include these earrings that are already on my Gifts for Her Under $100. 

Corduroys// My mom and I both have these. She has been joking that she feels like she needs different pants every year lately, so that she doesn't look so dated in what she wears, and I fully feel that too! These are a classic, straight cut that won't go out of style. They come in black and a beautiful, deep brown hue. They're as flattering as they are comfortable. 

Four Row Pavé Ring// Sizzle LOVES sparkle, and she loves to pile on the jewelry. This is a great daily ring that adds a little sparkle. It's currently on sale! 

Collagen Serum// This is my mom's FAVORITE skincare product ever. She raves about it. I have tried it, and while I think it's nice, it's not my favorite. Which just goes to show you that everyone has different skin! She raves about how plump it makes her skin, and that's the number one thing she notices, particularly in her cheek area. You can use it daily. There is a whole PC collagen line, but my mom says that the serum works best! My code SUMMERWIND should work on this! 

Leather Handbag// CC sent me this handbag in green, and my mom has been drooling over it ever since. It truly does look just like a $6k handbag.

Loafers// She saw these in the store and fell in love with them. Maybe Santa has them on his way to her?! They're even better in person. 

Sunglasses// I have these sunglasses, and my mom loves them. She tried them on and looked so great in them. I swear these sunglasses are like the Sisterhood of the Traveling Sunglasses. They look good on my dad and husband, too. 

Quilted Puffer// We saw this in the store, and it's gorgeous. It's definitely not something we would have picked out based on the photo online. Sizzle is always cold, so she loves anything cute she can put over her winter outfits! 

Espresso Maker// My parents are both fanatical about this stovetop espresso maker. I finally went over and had them make me an espresso with it. It makes sensational espresso, and to think people spend thousands on machines! This is the old-school Italian method for making espresso. My husband isn't into gifts, but he even said this is something he wouldn't mind receiving for Christmas. I love espresso, but as someone who likes to minimize effort in the kitchen, I would stick to my regular drip coffee during the week and reserve this for weekends. It is perfect for my retired parents who enjoy their slower-paced mornings. 

Black Lounge Set// My mom, sister, and I all have this set. I even have it in multiple colors. The outside of the material feels like stretchy, smooth jersey, and the inside is slightly textured, similar to soft terrycloth. Therefore, the fabric is slightly thicker than typical jersey-knit fabrics, making it ideal for the cooler months. This set is polished enough that you could wear it to run your pup around the block or enjoy your morning coffee with others in a vacation home. 


Wine Glasses// My mom has been collecting this glassware. It's gorgeous, and there are a few colors to choose from. My mom, Grammie, and aunt are all the ones who passed down their love for tableware to me! 

Dress// My mom has been looking for casual dresses with sleeves for the winter months. They are surprisingly hard to find. She loves this one! 

Red Light Mask// My mom and dad both use the red light mask and love it. It is currently on sale with my code SUMMERWIND. It's usually only good for 10% off, but my code now gives 20% off through Cyber Week! I have a detailed review of the mask here. My husband also uses the mask and loves it, and so do my sister and brother-in-law. 

Wireless Speaker// I gave this to my dad for Father's Day, and he and my mom love it! This is one of the prettier wireless speakers available. The sound is so crisp and clear. They love to travel with it, use it at picnics, and down on the dock at the lake, among other places. 

Silver Serving Tray Trio// Regardless of decor taste, a silver tray always works, and you always need more than one. I love that this set has varying sizes. These are made of stainless steel, so you won't have to polish them. 

Santal and Vetiver Scent Set// My mom was hesitant to try the more natural deodorant. I was too, so I get it. Once I did, I never looked back. It really does work. Anyway, I have now turned her on to all of the S+S products, and she loves them...even the deodorant! For years, she has worn Le Labo Santal, so this has a similar scent profile, which she loves. My code is SYDNEYS15. They offer a variety of gift sets at different prices, as well as smaller, stocking-stuffer-type gifts. My favorite scent is the bergamot and hinoki! 

Waffle Quilted Turtleneck// We both love Dudley and have lately been loving their quilted waffle pattern because it doesn't cling to dog hair like traditional fleece does. 

Tank Dress// This was another item I influenced my mom to get, and now she is hooked. She just bought two more colors. They are the perfect casual dress for the warmer months, ideal for walks, the driving range, a casual lunch, exploring a new city, and more. They don't have shorts underneath, but you can easily wear your own. The length is short but modest! My mom looks great in these dresses, and they are adorable paired with sneakers. 


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).
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Friday, November 14, 2025

Weekend Wish List

Some items of note... 

- I love the color of this Green Cashmere Sweater.

- I love the look of a concho belt, but they can be so expensive! This Belt is a gorgeous and more affordable option! 

- This handbag brand has so many gorgeous bags, and I love this Navy Croc Handbag.

- This Navy Dress looks like Self Portrait but is less costly! It's also great because you can wear it during the holiday season and beyond. 

Some items of note... 

- These Ballet Flats have a cozy lining! 

- I love a shawl cardigan, and this Cardigan is perfect for cozy winter weekends. 

- Holiday party ready with this Plaid Skirt. I'd pair it with a simple black top or crisp white button-down. 

- I recently got these Winter Boots, and they are so incredibly comfortable and well-made. 

- I want this Sports Bra in every color. So comfortable! 


For your weekend reading, here are blog posts you may have missed from this week:



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).
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Thursday, November 13, 2025

Lately

Saw these potted herbs and rosemary trees at Whole Foods and thought they'd make a great host/hostess gift! They were on sale for just $10!


Mittens// Fleece Gaiter
It was COLD on Monday and Tuesday... like winter cold. I had to break out my gear. I love this fleece gaiter and these down gloves. 

'Tis the season for absolute craziness, and I am taking it in stride. With so many fun work projects and social events on the calendar, I have to be hyper-organized, and I've done just that. We'll see how long I can keep it going,  ha! 

I've shared four gift guides so far: 

Next week, I will share three more on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday! Then, there will be four more, spread out over the weeks leading up to Christmas, for a total of 11 guides. 

I have a full weekend schedule starting this evening. Tomorrow night is what I am most excited (and nervous) about. A non-Pittsburgh brand is hosting an event here IN Pittsburgh for influencers/content creators. I will share more afterward. But the reason I am so excited is that things like this don't often happen in Pittsburgh! I'm honored to have been invited, but even if I weren't, I'm delighted to see things happening here! 

We put up the Christmas tree this week, and I love how it turned out. I am glad I got a new tree and hope it lasts many years. 


White Top (use code SYDNEY15)// Black Corduroys// Green Bag


Wearing: I've been wearing a lot of black this week. No idea why, but that seems to be the theme! 

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:
Drinking: I placed a large wine order ahead of the holidays, and I selected these four bottles because I think they would make a great gift for anyone who enjoys red wine. These are all solid and pretty recognizable. They are all under $75. Price is descending from left to right. 

Sale: One of my favorite holiday candles of all time is on sale. 

Currentbody, the brand that makes my red light mask, has increased my discount code from 10% to 20% off! My code is SUMMERWIND. It's the best discount available. 

Up to 20% off at Smathers and Branson. The best gifts for the men in your life! 


Watching: Have you all seen the trailer for Toy Story 5? I was always such a big fan of Toy Story. I vividly remember my aunt and grandma taking us to see Toy Story 2 in theaters, and afterward, we got to pick out a Toy Story 2 toy at the store. I picked out Jessie! It's one of the rare movie series where they are all good! Even as an adult, I think they are cute. The movie is set to release this summer, and although I probably won't see it in theaters, I look forward to watching it. The storyline revolves around screens/technology, and as someone who uses screens way too much for her job, I'm eager to see how it's portrayed. I'm guessing the 'screen' will be the bad guy?! I hope so! 

Loving: I'm very much an advocate of wool rugs. I was skeptical about Ruggables, but once I got one for our guest bathroom, I became a fan. This runner is soft underfoot and machine washable. It's perfect for areas like an entryway, bathroom, or kitchen, or for use throughout the home if you have pets. I think of Mac in his last year or two and how some of the rugs in my parents' house were just ruined. This kind of thing would have made everything less stressful. 

Loving: This is a cleaner version of an Oxy-type laundry booster. I used it for the first time this weekend on our duvet cover after my parents' pup, Buddy, spent the weekend with us. The duvet cover came out cleaner than ever. I was shocked! I expected it to work, but wow, consider me majorly impressed. 

Loving: Love this little knit bandana scarf. It's under $50 and scratches the trendy bandana print itch without breaking the bank on a trend. I like that this is a knit because I think it will be a cute pop of color with a ski jacket! This comes in many colors and would be a cute gift. 


Wanting: The D. Porthault collaboration with PM is beautiful! Martini pajamas? Say less! This navy dress is the perfect thing to wear around the holidays, but is great because it doesn't scream 'holiday' and therefore, you could wear it for any occasion year-round! There's a matching jacket that is giving Emily Gilmore, in the best way! The most beautiful shade of green cashmere. I got these sneakers not too long ago, and they are on sale. They're a very slim profile, which makes me feel chic and 'current'. They're inexpensive, but the quality is great. I've been searching for a beautiful silver frame since I broke ours while I was dusting... oops! I saw this one in the store the other day, and it caught my eye! Love a good velvet dress. Under $50 needlepoint personalized stockings! My husband has this as his stocking and it's adorable! Thinking of ordering this faux fur coat. Love love love this cocktail dress! So unique. Everything from that brand is so good right now. This plaid jacket is timeless. Another navy cocktail dress that is perfection. A beautiful, cozy red cardigan. Adding this tonal fair isle sweater to cart. Speaking of Fair Isle, this is another gorgeous tonal number. These holiday pajamas are restocked! Can't decide if I prefer the black or the white in this dress because the black is so chic and straightforward, but the bows really pop on the white! These blue and white pajamas look like Delft tiles. Wow, love. This tab has been sitting open in my browser for weeks. I love it so much! Anyone need a black tie gown? A coat even better than MaxMara. The most perfect flag sweater I've ever seen. A dainty eyelet lace top. I ordered these on a whim. I am doubting they will work on my hair, but I've got the itch to switch it up! My sister got two cats this year, and they are SO cute. I am going to surprise her with these pajamas! A cardigan fit for a ski chalet. This turtleneck would also fit right in your ski chalet wardrobe! I really hope this jacket comes back in stock! A dress I'm considering for Christmas Eve.
Pittsburgh: My husband picked up these sandwiches this weekend for lunch from Pane e Pronto, Dianoia's outpost, and they were SO good! People sleep on this place, but it's so worth popping in! 

Amazon Rec: I can't remember if I showed you our flatware. I just bought another set. I've had the other set for 5 years, and we love it. 


I got these ornaments a few years ago and love them. I found this set that looks very similar! 

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!

Smelling: I have been using and loving this all-purpose wipe brand for months. I use the smaller tub in my car, and it has saved me so many times with spills, messes, and just general wiping down my hands after workouts, at gas stations, etc. Big fan. Anyway, they sent me a holiday package this week, which was fun. Inside, they had holiday-scented wipe options, which I thought was interesting, as the ones I have in my car are unscented. Well, the Fraser Fir wipes smell just like Thymes Fraser Fir, if you are familiar with that glorious scent! So fun for the holidays. Though they come in a large package, it'll be Valentine's Day, and I'll still be whipping things down with Fraser Fir, ha! 

Traveling: We have a fun little trip planned soon! I am so excited! We always try to take a family trip around the holidays, but we couldn't get all six of us to align, so just my husband and I are going to take our own little pre-holiday trip. 

Quoting: “Kindness often echoes longer than words.” //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). 
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