No more gift shopping unless it’s for yourself — this is what I buy

Now that I’m done buying gifts for others, it’s time to get back to what I really love: buying gifts for myself. I spent the last month successfully avoiding every fashion and beauty product that crossed my desk and exercising immense willpower to budget for holiday gifts. But those days are behind us and what we have in front of us is… well, it needs to be shared. My focus is on holiday outfits, planning my NYC outfit, and investing in some new beauty products for the dead of winter. In the fashion category, suggestions include sequined slip dresses, brushed cashmere, and faux fur coats. For beauty, you want to boost hydration and nourish your skin and hair to combat the harsh cold. Keep reading to shop my picks from brands that make this happen.

Whenever I’m in the mood to treat myself, I head straight to J.Crew. This popular brand continues to be at its best, releasing gorgeous collections one after another this season. My current J.Crew wish list includes comfy clothes that can be styled chic (satin pants and brushed cashmere sweaters) and fun party pieces to wear this New Year’s Eve (sheer sequin slip dresses and tuxedos). It’s piled up. style blazer). This winter, it’s an item you’ll want to wear whether you’re at home or going out.

Are you someone who leans towards moody winter looks? Maybe you’re inspired by the chic street style of New York City? If so, this section of Express is for you. Carefully selected. Below you can shop coats, pants, sweaters and dresses that perfectly capture the New Year’s spirit in New York. Incorporate neutral pieces and matching ensembles to shop the new releases below.

As I scrolled through Ssense, I felt I had to admit that I’m a sucker for cute packaging. This winter, start with the six items below to create a little luxury that makes every day special. Moisturize your skin and hair with luxurious oils from Diptyque and Herbar. Add a Byredo lipstick and a Dries Van Noten compact mirror to your night out handbag. Relax with a Maison Louis Marie candle with a scent that costs a lot more than $40. All of these items look, feel and smell rich and are exactly the vibe I’m looking for.

The dark and moody winter dresser’s counterpart is a fun and funky dresser shop strictly at Charlotte Stone. The brand is known for statement shoes that brighten up any outfit. The heels, flats, and boots purchased below are the perfect shoes to wear to a holiday party. For an all black ensemble, I think I would choose the red Georgie. Or gold Judd for a pop of festive metallic. These footwear options are fun and sure to be the perfect finishing touch to your party looks this season.

Well, I can’t help but get back to talking about clothes (and Kenneth Cole delivered the goods). As I was scrolling through the site, mock neck sweaters, faux fur jackets, and the most beautiful draped backless shift dresses caught my eye. These are all party pieces that can be styled in many different ways. Yes, you can wear these metallic pants in New York, but you can also wear them to the office the next day with a sweater or black blazer. These are versatile winter items you won’t regret investing in.

This last section of Verb is a reminder to yourself not to slack off on your hair care routine this season. Static electricity from sweaters, cold temperatures, and dry air can all have a negative effect on your hair, but these six products can combat this problem. Historically, I’ve shied away from excess hair care products (I have very fine hair and it gets oily quickly), but these products are great for your hair, no matter its type. It doesn’t feel heavy.