Welcome to our series showcasing some of our Marie Claire editors' fashion and beauty purchases this month. You'll discover the seasonal basics anchoring our wardrobes and the beauty buys that have us reconsidering our routines.
With the holiday season in full swing, it’s officially time to start scouring for gifts. Here at Marie Claire, we’ve already begun making and checking our lists twice. Style Director Sara Holzman recommends shopping at Sézane, where you can find a variety of snug sweaters for anyone in your life. Aside from purchasing thoughtful presents for our loved ones, we’ve also decided to spoil ourselves too (because why not!). Beauty Director Hannah Baxter just bought herself a luxe manicure kit that yields salon-worthy results, while Associate Director of Social Media Lucia Tonelli aims to elevate her at-home wardrobe with a pair of cozy slippers.
Whether you’re planning to give or receive, grab some inspiration from our editor-approved gift guide ahead. And while you’re at it, peruse Editor-in-Chief Nikki Ogunnaike’s latest Self Checkout post, featuring a range of chic gifts from cashmere cardigans to button-adorned winter coats.
"Sezane has mastered the art of sweaters—they even have an entire "sweater bar" in their New York and Paris boutiques, offering every style and color imaginable. Made from a luxurious wool blend, this sweater offers the softness of cashmere at a more accessible price point, making it perfect for anyone who loves the feel of high-quality knitwear. Sézane is also like introducing someone to a little slice of Parisian style, especially for those who may not have heard of or visited Sézane’s boutiques. You simply can’t go wrong."—Sara Holzman, Style Director
"I know I'm not the only one who picks at her fingers and cuticles, so I'm always trying to perfect my at-home maintenance routine to keep my nails looking polished between manicure appointments. This chic kit makes maintaining your nails (buffing, filing, shaping, and moisturizing) feel downright luxurious. The leather carrying case is perfect for travel or storing in your vanity, and the glass half-moon nail file will replace every cheap emory board you have stashed away. Plus, it gives your natural nails a stunning high-shine finish—no lacquer required."—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director
"Within 10 minutes of getting fed an ad for these Bombas slippers on Instagram, my order was placed. This matters because I rarely shop online and only ever buy something with such swiftness if I feel deeply drawn to it. (Plus, I’ve never heard a bad thing about Bombas, so the risk was low.) I’m never without slippers in my home, but even my nicest pairs end up with creasing and stains from the inevitable crouching, cooking, etc. This sherpa pair has all the makings of a slipper that can withstand what my others haven’t. It’s sturdy and has a memory foam sole, with a rubber outsole should you want to wear them outdoors. They fit great (though I’d recommend sizing up if you’re a half size) and look so good."—Lucia Tonelli, Associate Director of Social Media
"I recently discovered Gaâla, a family-run slow fashion brand, and I’m absolutely head over heels for their leather trench coat. Since it's the holiday season, I decided to treat myself to this polished piece. Stitched with upcycled faux leather, this trench boasts a sleek, high-shine finish that’s hard to resist. Available in both burgundy and black, I chose the latter colorway for its timeless, neutral appeal. I can’t wait to wear it on repeat this season, pairing it with soft sweaters, sturdy wide-leg jeans, and a variety of other cold-weather essentials."—Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor
"If you're tired of fake lashes or getting lash extensions (I tried it once and never again!), this is your solution in a bottle. Apply it every night and your lashes will be so long that people will be convinced they're faux. BabeLash also doesn't irritate my eyes, which was a problem I had when trying a different product. You do have to be religious about applying the serum, but the results are worth it. I'm bringing this one to my friends' "Favorite Things" holiday party."—Kristin Contino, Senior Royal and Celebrity Editor
"I’m on the hunt for a durable and stylish tote bag that’s perfect for carrying my laptop and notebook throughout the week. I’m always drawn to mid-century-inspired accessories, which is why this bag from Pacific Tote Company is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Crafted from premium heavy-duty canvas, it's not only ideal for work and travel, but I can also see myself using it for beach days, picnics, and beyond!"—Montse Tanús, Art Director
"I've been searching for the perfect short puffer jacket for a while now. I wanted something that works for those in-between months that are chilly, but not cold enough for a hefty layer. This jacket checks all the boxes! It's crafted with detachable sleeves and can be worn as a vest (which makes it ideal for unpredictable NYC temperatures). Not to mention, it's stitched with recycled materials (Damson Madder intentionally prioritizes sustainability, so I love supporting the brand)."—Jonelle Afurong, Junior Visual Designer
"If you think about it, flossing is overdue for an upgrade. Now, I'd never personally thought about this—but then I saw founder Samantha Coxe on Shark Tank, and I realized she was right: Flossing should be easier! This is 2024, people! Enter Flaus, which I ordered within minutes of seeing Coxe introduce it. It's an eco-friendly electric flosser that looks cute on your bathroom shelf and, much like an electric toothbrush, does the hard work of flossing for you. It also has the significant side effect of making you feel smug at the dentist. Why didn't someone invent this sooner?"—Jenny Hollander, Digital Director
"I’m so obsessed with these slippers. I recently packed them for a trip to my parents house because I couldn’t bear the thought of being without them for a week. They are simply so cozy and warm, and the sturdy bottoms are great for those moments when I need to run a quick errand outside the house. I made the mistake of letting my mom try them on and now she can't get enough of them. So, I'm planning to buy her a pair for Christmas."—Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
"There is something so luxe about a set of fluffy white towels. I'm a sucker for this new brand, which allows your to personalize your choice of weave and weight for the towels. Bespoke, fluffy, and beautifully minimalist? I'll need a set for myself and all my love ones who also enjoy an at-home spa day."—Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director
"It doesn't matter what my giftee's style aesthetic is, I know that a pair of simple gold hoop earrings will fit in their jewelry box perfectly. These earrings work for any occasion and any outfit, which is why I'll be buying them for my Secret Santa gift exchange. Plus, Gorjana's one of my go-to affordable jewelry brands for high-quality pieces for under $100, so this gift is essentially foolproof." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor