Friends! As I’ve told Andrea Stanley, Marie Claire’s executive editor, I’m running out of days. And not in a dramatic way, just in an “I’m about to get married and going to be out of the office for the next couple weeks” way. Exciting, right? My “bridal era” is coming to an end—and bringing with it some thoughts on the fashion peanut gallery’s obsession with being “timeless.”

From what I’ve seen, the bridal industrial complex (a.k.a. Wedding TikTok) will make you think that everything related to your wedding should be timeless. When you look at your photos, every choice from your ring to your dress to your glam should stand the test of time. Well, I call BS. Instead, I think every piece you choose should feel exactly like you at that moment. And that goes for your everyday style too. It’s not about hating microtrends or dressing for random people’s approval; no, it’s about choosing items that make others say “that fill-in-the-blank is so Your Name Here.”

So how does one do that? Well, for me that starts with noticing patterns—being cognizant of my wardrobe staples over the years as well as the items I always return to. That exercise prevents me from impulse shopping. Here’s what’s on my list for summer.

Striped Shirts

Just the other day, as I unpacked my Uniqlo shopping bag, my fiancé joked, “You’re always gonna have a striped shirt, aren’t you?” And you know what, he’s right. There’s something that just feels so intentional about them that will always keep me coming back for more.

Big Shorts

Try as I might, I’m just never going to be a hot pants girl. And I’m definitely not going to be a capri pants girl…which leaves me with what I like to call “big shorts”: a catch-all for either Bermuda or wide-leg styles. They’re simply where I feel most comfortable (whether or not everyone else believes in the big shorts agenda remains to be seen). But honestly, it doesn’t matter because I’ve loved this style of short for well over 15 years.

Button-Down Shirts

“Elegant” is a word I use a lot when I describe my personal style (on its best days, I should say). “Refined” is another. Button-down shirts, to me, inherently embody those words. Hence, the reason I have an arsenal of them ready to be deployed for any given occasion.

Slim Sneakers

Sneaker trends come and go, but a low-profile style that I can easily slip off and on will always make the top of my list. They’re ideal for commuting and then stashing under your desk, plus I find they look the best with trousers or shorts.

Friends! Welcome back to another edition of Self Checkout, where the vibes are high (Go Knicks!) and the temps are even higher. As in, it’s hot as hell in New York. This week, I’m tackling a topic I’ve seen bubbling up over the last couple of weeks: What am I supposed to wear to work under these conditions?

I don’t know about you, but every summer it takes me a couple weeks to figure out my outfit formulas. Inevitably, they come racing back (what’s the fashion equivalent of muscle memory?), and the ones below are the three that I always rely on.

A Muscle Tank and Personality Pants

Ask any New Yorker (or maybe it’s just me) and they’ll tell you one of the worst summertime feelings is sitting your bare hamstrings on a subway seat. Eeeeyuck! Lightweight pants with a little bit of something, plus a muscle tank (less revealing and therefore warmer in an over-air conditioned room), solve that problem.

A Knee-Length Denim Skirt and a Linen Button-Down

Try as I may, I haven't been able to crack the slip skirt trend. I prefer more structure in my bottoms, like a denim skirt. I’ve collected a few over the years and always reach from them on those 75 degree days. I recently added this J.Crew x Lee one to the mix. A slightly oversized linen button-down (sleeves rolled to the elbow) is a cool yet polished complement.

Shirt Dresses

If you haven’t noticed, I’m a fairly modest dresser when it comes to the office. My go-to summer work dress is always a T-shirt or button-down dress. They’re a little more elevated than a jumpsuit or romper, but just as easy to wear.

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Friends! Hello from my bachelorette party! Well actually, I’m writing this before I take off. But by the time it lands in your inbox, we’ll be on day three of the bach and this will most likely be the scene, ha!

Thanks to my incredible friends who volunteered to plan the entire event, I had a healthy amount of time to think about my outfits (really leaning into my fashion girl roots) for our crew’s weekend in Miami. During this process I realized something kind of sad, though: There was a serious lack of whimsy in my closet. Lots of New York, work-worthy pieces, but not nearly enough going-out looks. And I hadn’t updated my swim collection in years! But don’t worry, I remedied that situation ASAP through a mix of shopping high-low, current season items, and second-hand on The RealReal. Here’s what made the cut for Nikki’s Last Miami Vice.

WHITE GOING-OUT DRESSES

The weekend's events were not themed, but the dress code I gave myself called for a white going-out dress every night. I immediately started browsing on Revolve to find some options at an appropriate price point. After a small haul and try-on session, the options I landed on were statement-y enough for Miami, but not so much that I wouldn’t want to rewear them in another city

SWIM, SWIM, AND MORE SWIM

I may have gone a little overboard here, but I’m not the kind of gal who buys new swimsuits every season. The mix is quintessentially Nikki: some luxury, some affordable, loads of color all around.

DAYTIME EXTRAS

To be honest, it was all-too-easy to hyper focus on bikinis and going-out looks for this trip. I had to remind myself more than once that my packing would not be complete without shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and jewelry! Sue me, I was just REALLY excited to throw some ’fits with the girls.

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Friends! As we inch closer to Memorial Day, I imagine many of your upcoming weekends will start to be taken over by weddings! How many are you attending this summer? And have you worked out what you plan to wear? If not, I’m here to help.

The idea for this newsletter came to me as I’ll be getting married in July, and as a fashion girl, I thought long and hard about what I wanted our dress code to be. We landed on formal because a) it will be hot, b) black tie felt too stuffy for our vibe as a couple, and c) we really just want people to show up, looking—and feeling—good, so they're ready to dance.

But if you’ve got a different dress code on the docket, or are just in search of options, I’ve done some research and found dresses at all price points across four popular dress codes, plus an assortment of shoes I think are wedding-guest worthy.

BEACH

Beach weddings are inherently a little less formal, so take the opportunity to go more flowy and less structured with your outfit. The number one thing you should look for, though, is a look that is breathable. Fabrics like linen, chiffon, and cotton are ideal.

COCKTAIL

Cocktail is generally an evening dress code and means wearing something more formal than a casual work dress—but less dressy than formal attire. My go-tos for this type of affair are T-length dresses, dressy separates, or a sharp suit.

FORMAL

Also referred to as black-tie-optional, a formal dress code lands somewhere between cocktail and proper black tie, meaning we’re looking for elegant fabrics (lace, beads, satin, silk) but a gown is not mandatory. Formal is also a time to play with brighter shades and patterns like the ones I’ve chosen here.

BLACK TIE

This is where things get serious. You’re wearing your finest here: floor-length gowns, tuxedos, and formal fabrics, like satin or taffeta. There’s not a lot of wiggle room in this category, but how often are we really dressing up anymore? Embrace it!

SHOES FOR WEDDINGS

You’ve got to consider two things when shoe shopping for a wedding: the venue and just how long you'll be on your feet. Spending the day outdoors? Go for a wedge or a formal flat. Inside? Opt for something a little strappier where the heel can be more stiletto-like and less chunky.

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Friends! What a week we had at Marie Claire. In case you missed it, we launched our Motherhood Issue, starring the model, mogul, and mother-to-three Ashley Graham. In the issue, not only will you find stories that tackle the ever changing culture around motherhood (The Big Business of Breastfeeding, Why Maternity Clothes Just Don't Deliver) but you also meet ten women who are reshaping the conversations we have about motherhood: the Power Moms class of 2026. To celebrate, I co-hosted our annual Power Moms dinner with Reshma Sujani, the CEO of Moms First, a nonprofit fighting for the structural changes women need and deserve, at the Ambassadors Clubhouse. The night was filled with laughter, good tears, camaraderie, some of the best North Indian food New York has to offer, and maybe one too many glasses of wine. But you guys know how I get down. We love a celebration of powerful women!

So this week’s newsletter, written through slightly bleary eyes, is simple: everything I want to buy this spring and summer! Because listen, I’m getting married, going to work, hopefully doing a bit of traveling, and really looking forward to sunny days ahead. Let’s get into it.

BRIGHT WHITE

I’m not going to lie, I’ve got bachelorette parties on the brain: mine, Corporate Natalie’s, Acquired Style’s…but really mostly mine. My friends are handling all the planning, which leaves me plenty of time to consider what I’ll wear.

The Burberry x Hunza G collaboration got me. The white is ideal for bridal, but isn’t too trendy that I won't wear it summer after summer. Perfect for an afternoon at a beach club!

MIAMI METHOD DRESSING

We’re heading down to Miami, which I always take as an opportunity to really amp up the heat outfit-wise. I love dressing for the city I’m visiting—it’s like red carpet method dressing, but for fashion girls.

SPRING BACK TO WORK

When I’m not thinking about wedding or bachelorette stuff, I’m pre-planning what I want to wear to the office. It’s a tricky time to get dressed as we all know: hot as hell outside, cold AF inside. So during this time, I find myself relying on lighter fabrics and not-quite-long/ not-quite-short silhouettes—Bermuda shorts, knee-length skirts, linen button downs—to see me through.

ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES

This is also a time when I love to amp up what stylists often call extras—jewelry, hats, layering pieces, other accessories—the exclamation points on one’s look.

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The below edition of Self Checkout was created in partnership with Spanx.

Friends! The way I see it, getting dressed for work during the spring and summer is like riding a bike. You may think you’ve absolutely forgotten how to do it—especially on those first few warm weather days that sort of pop up out of nowhere—but with a couple of rides (or days of getting dressed in a row) under your belt, it comes back with ease.

My trick? First, it starts with revisiting photos of myself from years prior during this exact time period. What did I post on IG? Which outfits did I love and should therefore repeat? Which ones need a little update or tweak? I am the blueprint, after all. Next, we study the throughlines— what were the wardrobe workhorses that I can turn to time and time again? Once I’ve gotten that in order, then I shop, should I need anything else.

This week’s send will focus on a few of those workhorses, in collaboration with Spanx’s WellSuited collection, and other pieces I’m absolutely loving from the brand.

You guys know me, I’m a suiting girl through and through. It’s where I feel most put together. Spanx’s WellSuited collection has a host of pieces that can be dressed up or down and are fab to travel with because they don’t really wrinkle. Let’s get started!

THE VEST

Vest outfits were super trendy last summer, but they don’t really ever go out of style. If I’m feeling super formal, I’ll pair my vest with trousers and maybe even a blazer (you never know when the AC will be on full blast). Otherwise, a pair of wide-leg jeans or Bermuda shorts make for a good match.

PENCIL SKIRT

A pencil skirt will be an ambitious update for me. As you guys know, I can’t stop thinking (writing) about the skirt suit trend, but I’ll admit, I’m still working through how it would fit into my day-to-day life since my office is more casual. If I were a lawyer or proper corporate baddie, though, I’d 100 percent go full skirt suit, plus a personality pump.

BLACK BLAZER

If you don’t own a black blazer…you probably should. I’m rarely prescriptive when it comes to my fashion recs, but a black blazer will always hold you down. This Spanx one is especially great because of the all-season fabric and four-way stretch. I’d size up for a more slouchy look, then be prepared to wear it with everything you own. Another tip: Stash one at your office to replace your desk sweater.

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Friends! We had a hint of incredible weather this week in New York and I feel like that Nicole Kidman meme: ready to take on the world! First step: stashing my winter gear for good and turning my sights toward spring and summer outfits. The shoppies haven’t hit me quite yet (coming soon, I’m sure) so I’m mostly thinking about new color combinations I want to try. (Dopamine dressing is real!) These are the three I’m wearing first.

BURGUNDY AND CHARTREUSE

Imagine my surprise when I found out the colors I thought I so uniquely chose for my summer wedding turned out to be…extremely popular? Just goes to show that there are no new ideas! This unexpected pairing has a timelessness that works no matter the season so it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite.

CHOCOLATE BROWN AND ASH RED

I recently acquired a pair of brown Jacquemus x Nike sneakers and have been wearing them with an old pair of Tibi painter jeans. (Those are no longer on the market, but a pair currently available at Kallmeyer is a close match.) I find the combo to be less harsh than black and red, making it perfect for 50 degree spring and summer days.

ICE BLUE AND ROYAL PURPLE

I mentioned a few sends ago that royal purple has quickly become a favorite color of mine. It should come as no surprise that the color has landed on my list, too. A cooler shade of blue lends a soft touch to the bolder purple.

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Friends! I’m thrilled to be back in your inboxes with another edition of Self Checkout, but before we get to clothes I have to give a major, huge shout out to the team at Marie Claire who worked on an investigative series called Women and Guns. Ten years ago, Marie Claire published a similar volume of stories that explored the complex world of females and firearms and a decade later, we’re returning to the same topic to understand what’s changed—and what hasn’t. I implore you all to read it. We cover everything from gunfluencers (yes, that’s exactly what you think it is: a gun influencer on social media) to how teachers who have lived through mass shootings handle the ramifications to their mental and physical wellbeing.

And now, because Marie Claire is a space for women who contain multitudes, on to this week’s Self Checkout topic: the boys that are really taking it to the next level fashion-wise. My style has always been a bit “borrowed from the boys”—I do love traditionally masculine pieces—but I haven’t felt this inspired by male celebrities in years. When I think about Harry Styles, Jacob Elordi, and Colman Domingo, it boils down to the way they’re able to mix high-low, masculine-feminine, and of course usage of color! And it all looks so easy! Allow me to break down a few of my favorite looks and you’ll see why I love them so much.

HARRY STYLES

Harry Styles’s dressing is a kind of inverse of my personal style—he dresses to highlight “feminine” pieces, like the above leopard-print Chanel jacket from Matthieu Blazy’s Métiers D’Art collection, and knows just how to make it work (those The Row loafers are a great finishing touch). I especially love and am inspired by how he plays with leopard print as a year-round neutral.

COLMAN DOMINGO

When I think of Colman Domingo I think of two things: king of red-carpet dressing and master of color theory! Like, he really can wear and inspires me to wear more color.

JACOB ELORDI

The below photo of Jacob Elordi has lived in my mind RENT FREE ever since it hit the wires. There’s a beauty in the simplicity of the pieces—and the fact that he’s so tall and also in that Bottega bag, TBD—that I continue to revisit. It’s since led me down a rabbit hole of even more Elordi photos (like one of him on late-night TV wearing ballet flats!!!) that have me re-thinking the way I want to dress.

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Friends! I’m coming to you from yet another airport lounge (I’m off to the Houston Rodeo!!!!), fresh off of a fabulous fashion week in Milan. It’s been a big week at Marie Claire: We published our March cover story starring the one and only Priyanka Chopra Jonas; spoke with Summer House’s Amanda Batula about separating from soon-to-be ex-husband Kyle; and analyzed all that Milan Fashion Week had to offer, from our favorite future trends to what all the industry folks wore to the shows. That Marie Claire mix, y’all. I’m absolutely obsessed.

This week in Self Checkout land, I’m wading into spring dressing. New York’s disgusting snow piles are finally melting, giving way to teeny hints of warm weather. I’m ready to think about the next few months and start considering the updates I want to make to my spring wardrobe. Here’s where I’m starting.

A NEW BAG SHAPE

I wouldn’t go as far as saying carrying a bag is out. I am trying to be cognizant of how much I’m carrying at any given time, and to not bring the whole kitchen sink with me every time I step out of my apartment. Enter: a silly little pouch. Last week in Milan, I beelined to Prada to grab one for myself. I found one I would love to own at Celine, and then another at Loewe. This will be my new going-out bag and/or weekend bag for sure.

ANYTHING CELINE

I fear Michael Rider’s Celine is speaking to me on a cellular level and I may never recover financially. I visited the store during Milan Fashion Week and walked away playing the “if money were no object” game—and found more than ten things I’d happily add to my closet immediately.

SOMETHING PICKLE GREEN OR PURPLE

There’s something about these two colors that’s really stuck in my craw, in the best way possible. Ultimately, it’s that they’re kind of weird and unexpected for spring, and make for a good pop of color in the same way a fiery red would. Even better, each hue pairs nicely with neutral colors like black, brown, white, and navy.

AVIATOR SUNGLASSES

There’s one word to really describe my vibe when I wear this shape, but it’s kind of vulgar and not appropriate for a wide audience. So instead, I’ll say that I feel very, very sexy and cool in them. These are my current faves on the market.

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Friends! Team Marie Claire has been ripping and running over the last few weeks, myself included. I’m more than thrilled to have a few quiet moments to sit down and write this letter—and use it as a loose packing list for Milan Fashion Week.

That’s correct! Just as we’re wrapping up New York Fashion Week and NBA All Star Weekend (did you catch the BTS of the dinner Taylor Rooks and I hosted?), plus recording five episodes of Nice Talk while in L.A., I’m heading back out on the road for a week of international shows. TBH, I actually can’t wait. I’m so excited to see what brands like Bottega Veneta, Prada, Gucci, and Jil Sander offer up, plus what the street style gals are giving looks-wise.

But first, more on how I’m packing!

LUGGAGE + TRAVEL LOOK

I’ll be gone for just a week, so I’m only going to check one trunk. I'll carry on a small suitcase and duffle. No matter my travel outfit, I always wear many, many pockets so I can keep my phone and passport on my person as I’m navigating JFK and Malpensa airports. Sweats topped with a tailored overcoat (that can double as a blanket) are a trusted duo that always works.

PACKING RULES I LIKE TO FOLLOW

Each pair of shoes has to go with at least three outfits: This saves me from overpacking and taking up precious room that could be allotted to new purchases.

Swap blue jeans for a bolder option: I’ll pack one pair of regular blue jeans for this trip. The rest will be bottoms that are more visually interesting, like marbled pants or sleek skirts.

No big coats: They take up too much space in a suitcase. If you must, wear your heaviest coat on the plane, and pack mid-weight jackets and thin layers you can pile on.

Do a style-out: Similar to a stylist preparing for a photoshoot, I like to plan outfits ahead of time and take photos of the looks. A personal fitting, if you will. Sometimes, I wear them exactly as-is; others, I freak it, depending on how I’m feeling that morning (or if the weather isn’t in my favor). Either way, I’ll have outfits prepped and ready to go. This also helps as it ensures I pack my key pieces (like the ones below).

DOUBLE DOWN ON ACCESSORIES THAT KEEP THE LOOK INTERESTING

Anyone who says they don’t care about the street style photographers is lying. At the very least, they’re cognizant of them and want to turn a little look! Visually stimulating accessories help with that. Bonus: They take up less room than large coats, if you’re the kind who likes to pack light.

THINGS THAT MAKE MY HOTEL ROOM FEEL LIKE HOME

My supplements, gym-related things, and a good steamer keep everything in check, physically and mentally.

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Friends! I don’t know if you’ve heard, but the weather right now is pretty brutal. It’s so cold, that I’ve told friends that once it hits 30 degrees, I’ll be outside in a crop top—and ya know, I might actually do it!

So, how are you handling getting dressed in this weather? I’m doing my best to avoid buying more coats or sweaters. (Trust me, I have enough.) Instead, I’m swapping my usual accessories for a more interesting option that can add a jolt to my winter outfits. You all know I’m a low-lift, high-impact kind of gal, and these tweaks are exactly that.

SCARVES THAT AREN’T BLACK

I’m not quite sure why, but seeing this photo of Zoë Kravitz in New York City wearing a purple scarf casually wrapped around her neck really cracked something in my brain. I not only immediately bought a similar style from The Real Real for myself, but I also tucked away the majority of my black and gray scarves to pull my more color-forward options to the front.

HATS THAT AREN’T A BEANIE

Similarly, when I read this story by Julia Gall, one of our fabulous Style at Large contributors, I, too, became ready to break up with my winter beanies in favor of something a bit more statement-y.

SUNGLASSES THAT AREN’T BORING

I’m a year-round sunglasses wearer (probably because my mom is the same way), so you’ll always find a pair of sunglasses (or two) on me. My favorite move, though, is to take my decidedly summertime pairs (like my Loewe ones, for example) and wear them when it’s cold outside. It’s like taking a player off the bench and putting him in the game unexpectedly—you never know what kind of magic could arise.

MITTENS THAT AREN’T GLOVES

I don’t care what anyone says: Mittens are hands-down the best way to keep your hands warm during the winter. While some may feel like they’re juvenile, I think they provide that bit of whimsy all of TikTok so desperately wants. I’ve had my Ugg pair for about six years now, returning to them season after season.

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Friends! Welcome to the very first Self Checkout of the new year! How’s it going so far? Better yet…how’s your closet going so far? Were you like me over the holidays—full purge mode, even though I 100 percent advised against that last year?

I don’t know what came over me, to be honest. If I had to guess, it had something to do with the many (many) TikToks I watched at the end of the year that reminded me 2025 was the year of the snake (representing wisdom, transformation, and, of course, a time to shed!). Combined with the fact that I’ve always understood the trend cycle to be just about ten years long and that I’m slightly nostalgic for what life was like in 2016, I’m ready to return to some styles of yore. What’s old is new again, especially when it comes to jeans. So, here are the three denim shapes I’m starting with in 2026.

THE STRAIGHT-LEG JEAN

Shocking coming from a professed barrel-leg lover, huh? Not that I’ll ever get rid of them, but my eye is craving something a little more streamlined. I’m finding it in straight-leg jeans. Not to be confused with a skinny cut (I don't think I'll ever go back to that!), just something a little slimmer.

THE HIGH-WAISTED JEAN

I remember it like it was yesterday: the day during the 2020 pandemic I got rid of nearly every pair of high-waisted jeans I owned in favor of a lower or mid-rise (or let’s be really real—sweatpants!) style. That meant my healthy collection of Levi’s Wedgie and Ribcage jeans, the only styles I’d worn up until the pandemic, was gone. Now, I won’t say I regret that move…but I am ready to revisit a less bulky style that’s slimmer through the hips and thighs.

THE BOOTCUT JEAN

Though I’m already annoyed by how much time I’ll spend with my tailor if I go this route, something about a baby kick or a long and lean flare is really calling my name. Again, it’s a little more restrained than my usual baggy or barrel-leg styles.

BONUS: 6 SHOES I’LL WEAR WITH MY NEW DENIM

After one gets a new pair of jeans, the next logical question is…which shoe to wear with them? My suggestion would be to pair your straight-leg denim with a sleek sneaker or flat; high-waisted jeans with loafers or pumps; and bootcuts with boots (obviously).

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Friends! Welcome to the last Self Checkout of the year. I don’t know about you, but I think it’s time we all power down and get to hibernating, am I right? But first, it’s time to reflect.

I’d like to share some of my top purchases of 2025, plus a handful of the best things I tried and tested. I love this exercise: It really makes me slow down and take stock of what was worth the money (or time and effort it took to try the item), versus what’s worth skipping. It’s all in service of making better shopping decisions in the future. Let’s get started!

The barrel-leg trend reached a fever pitch in 2025. But as you guys know, I’m not new to this, I’m true to this. I’ve been wearing this style since 2019, and in 2025, I added the Nili Lotan Shon Jean into the mix. It quickly became a go-to that worked in every single season of the year. I styled it with knits, tank tops, boots, sandals, heels and more. I also found myself wearing them on planes quite often, as they’re light enough for travel. Hard pants that feel soft. What’s not to love?

Earlier this year, Nike introduced a new suite of running shoes including the Structure 26, the Vomero Plus, Pegasus Premium, and Vomero Premium. I logged mile after mile in all of them (more than 300 miles to be exact) and have some thoughts. The Vomero Plus is my absolute favorite for my usual recovery road runs. The cushioning reduces the impact on my legs, but there’s not so much cushioning that I feel like I could roll my ankle if I take a step the wrong way.

In 2026, I really hope Nike does some more marketing around the Structure because it’s the perfect all-around shoe. If you’re a minimalist and only want to run and lift in one style, this is it. I wouldn’t log a ton of miles in them (the cushion isn’t thick enough for me), but they’re ideal for a walking session on the treadmill and then hitting the weights.

While on a girls' trip in Puerto Rico, my friend introduced me to Danessa Myricks’ Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder. It’s hands down the best addition I’ve made to my makeup bag in years. It goes on like a powder, provides enough coverage to make a difference, and is the best on days when I want to feel made-up but not overly done.

Two more beauty buys that I fell in love with in 2025 were the Sofie Pavitt Face Clean Clean Cleanser and the Micellar Makeup Removing Cleansing Pads. The gel-to-foam formulation removed all of my makeup without leaving my face stripped and dry. And when I didn’t have it in me to wash my face at night, the wipes proved to be a quick and easy alternative.

A luxury purse has to be truly amazing to move me to actually purchase it. (I’d rather spend my money on jewelry!) I finally got the small Prada buckle when I spotted a pre-loved version in the color I wanted, and I’m so glad I did. I love the supple leather and inside dividers, and the long strap is super easy to wear.

I fell hard for the brown suede trend at the top of 2025 and thankfully ended the year feeling the exact same. Each of these styles are classic and elegant, but not boring—which is what I tend to look for in footwear I can wear season after season.

It should come as no surprise Sézane Clyde trench coat has made the list. I mean, how many more ways can I profess my love for it? The Marie Claire editor-favorite saw me through Paris fashion week in the early spring and again this past fall when I went to Bath on a work trip.

Last but not least, I’ve got a healthy collection of sweaters and sweatshirts in my closet, but the one that gets top billing is this heather gray option from Polo Ralph Lauren. So much so, I bought the matching pants during a Black Friday sale and have worn the set multiple times since then. If you’re going couch rot, you’ve got to look good while doing it!

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Friends! How are we doing during these last few weeks of December? Are we crawling toward the end of the year or finishing strong? It’s reasonable to feel like a bit of both (probably depending on the day). I’m here to make things a little easier with a handful of low-effort, high-reward outfit ideas that you can come back to time and time again. I’ve also broken things up by event to take the guesswork out of things and ensure you can get dressed with ease. Let’s get into it!

LAST-MINUTE CELEBRATIONS

Next week is peak holiday party time, so if you’re still looking for something to wear, go with various pieces that you can mix and match into the rest of your wardrobe as the winter goes on. A red going-out top is both festive and perennial, so start there, then build the rest of your outfit.

WORKING FROM HOME

If you (unfortunately) have to work the week between Christmas and New Years, I offer three suggestions: A) Avoid the office at all costs, B) Work from home, and C) Take full advantage of the fact that no one will see your lower half, so soft pants are A-ok. Halie LeSavage, MC’s Senior Fashion Editor, highly recommends the pair below.

RUNNING ERRANDS

“The in-between,” as I like to call it, sums up those few days you can really use before New Year’s Eve to check everything off your to-do list: package returns, coffee dates with friends, hair and nail appointments, etc. No need to get fully dressed up, but a matching sweat suit signals intentionality with your outfit.

WHEN YOU EVENTUALLY BECOME SICK OF NOT GETTING DRESSED

If you’re anything like me, after taking some time off from getting fully dressed, you’ll be ready to put a look together once again. Nothing too wild, though—just a little something that feels put-together, but easy.

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Friends! I hope you’re reading this while laying on the couch in a Netflix/Hulu/Apple TV-induced haze. Have you gotten a chance to check out my highly-specific holiday gift guide? I’ve gotten more than a few notes saying my categories—especially “gifts for the friend who is always on the verge of a crash out”—are very apropos. I suggest you give it a whirl.

I also suggest checking out Style at Large, Marie Claire's new network of fashion contributors who are bringing you their stories of personal style. From this collective, I’ve found winter hats that I can wear instead of my go-to beanie; new ways to style leggings; and walked away with unexpected color combinations I can try the next time I want to really throw a look. I highly recommend giving them a read.

And next week, we’ll welcome a new newsletter to the fold: The A-List Edit, curated by senior editor Halie LeSavage. Every other week, she’s testing celebrity street style trends and highlighting the ones anyone can wear. The first edition hits inboxes on December 6.

Now onto more pressing matters at hand: what I’m shopping for over this Black Friday/Cyber Monday/general sale week. I, personally, am often overwhelmed with the number of brands that are having sales during this time, so I do my best to be strategic. I purchase the exact items I want (no approximations), and rarely stray from the list of brands I would have shopped were things full price. Now is not the time to run amok and lose focus! Here’s where I’m starting.

J.Crew’s 40% off sale started earlier this week, so I’m taking the opportunity to stock up on my favorite socks. I mean, you all know how much I love these! I practically live in them from November to April. At this price, I’ll be refreshing my collection with a couple of black pairs and picking up a few new colors, too.

In true Capricorn form, I like to get a jump on my New Year’s resolutions. (Don’t judge me—start early, and it will become a habit by January 1.) One of them is to stop “rawdogging life,” as I’ve so eloquently told my wellness group chat. That means I’m adding supplements into my daily routine, starting with collagen (for my hair and skin), creatine (for my mind), and colostrum (for my gut).

30% off at Ralph Lauren means I’m finally adding the matching sweats to the gray hoodie I bought two years ago. And I reserve the right to circle back to this rugby and these socks as well.

Have I mentioned I’m getting married? Well, in case I haven’t…I am! Which means I’ve got a lot of events on deck where I’ll be wanting to wear cream, white, or off-white. While I definitely don’t have to buy something new for every occasion, Net-a-Porter’s up to 50% off sale has made a few things quite enticing.

Like a good sister/fiancée/auntie, I’ll be taking advantage of these Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales for my family and start my holiday shopping now! A $50-or-less price cap is key and makes the hunt a more fun, creative task.

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Friends! I’m so happy to say that the “discourse” around gift guides has maybe officially died. In case you don’t know what I’m referring to, here’s the TLDR: Last year, the internet was in a tizzy and loads of people seemed to be OVER gift guides. I, of course, encouraged people to…I don’t know, have some fun! Spread cheer! Read the gift guides and shop them…or don’t. Because ultimately, is it ever really that deep?

Which leads me to today’s edit: my first gift guide of 2025! I genuinely had so much fun putting this together—as you can tell from the categories—and I hope you enjoy it!

FOR THE FRIEND WHO’S ALWAYS ON THE VERGE OF A CRASH OUT

TBH, they need to chill out. While you may not be able to fix every structural thing that’s causing them stress, you can give them things that help them manage it—from supplements that actually work to products that will encourage them to slow down.

FOR THE FRIEND WHO LOVES A TINY LUXURY

My favorite gift to give: a semi-expensive thing that your recipient would never dream of buying themselves. The perfect indulgence, if you will!

FOR THE FRIEND WHO IS CHRONICALLY ONLINE, BUT REALLY SHOULD TOUCH SOME GRASS

The trick to getting them off their phone and into the real world is equipping them with the tools to do so! The perfect run/walk/weight-training shoe; books and games to keep their hands full; and, if they really need it, the piece of tech many phone addicts have said helped them lower their screen time.

FOR THE LEAST EMBARRASSING MAN IN YOUR LIFE

Have you heard? Having a boyfriend is embarrassing now. A fiancé or husband? Yikes, maybe even worse! JK, I’m being facetious (and quite actually love this on-going debate). If you’re blessed to have men in your life who do their best to not make you hang your head in shame, why not reward them with something great?

MY PERSONAL WISH LIST, IN CASE ANYONE IS TAKING NOTES

For those who are feeling extra generous this year…and by “those” I mean…maybe me?

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Friends! If this is going to be you from now until December 24, have I got a newsletter for you. This week, I’m offering up some outfit ideas for the various party dress codes you may encounter throughout the next month or so.

FESTIVE

This is undoubtedly the most broad of all seasonal dress codes. When I see “festive” on the invite, my mind immediately thinks of colors (silver, blue, red, green, gold) and fabrics (velvet, satin, sequin) that scream “holiday.” Take, for example, this metallic brocade dress. The fabric rises to the occasion, but can be tempered if you’re worried about looking too on-the-nose with a pair of chunky black boots and an oversized work jacket.

COCKTAIL OR SEMI-FORMAL

If you automatically think of a black dress when you read “cocktail” or “semi-formal,” why not try something else this season? A silky-chocolate brown, T-length dress is still code-appropriate. A leopard print clutch adds an unexpected dash of texture to the look.

OFFICE-APPROPRIATE

Most office holiday parties are pretty low-key these days, so feel free to wear denim. The trick is to dress it up a bit on top—I’m taking inspiration from the many fashion people I’ve seen wearing a tuxedo jacket and shirt recently. Satin flats also lend a luxe touch.

BLACK-TIE OPTIONAL

There are so few times in your life that you’ll get to wear a gown or proper tuxedo, so take this opportunity and really go the distance. Even if it’s not a mandate, why not? Life is short! Wear your finest.

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Friends! Read this in Mariah Carey’s voice: It’s tiiiiiimeeee! Coat season is finally here. I’m bringing you an edit of seven shapes I’m going all-in on—not just for this season, but most likely for many years to come.

I don’t have many rules when it comes to shopping. Two that I follow when I’m hunting for outerwear are: Invest to the best of your financial ability in materials and styles that will last, and never forget that, during this time, your coat is the outfit. Make it count!

Funnel-Neck Coats

It’s giving polish! It’s giving mystery! It’s giving practicality! Truly, what’s not to love about this shape?

Brown Leather Bombers

It’s not a new style, per se, but a slouchy brown leather jacket feels particularly now. Perhaps a trickle-down from recent Saint Laurent shows, fashion girlies everywhere are reaching for this style. Note: I’m wearing the recommended Aritzia one in this photo, which always lands me tons of compliments.

Anything-but-Black Puffers

Go the utilitarian route, but in a decidedly non-boring way. You’ll thank me later!

Floor-Length Coats

Another style that gives polish and practicality. My favorite way to wear these? Over a full sweatsuit and sneakers.

Duffle Coats

I could make a “Paddington, but make it fashion” joke, but I won’t. Instead, I’ll just note these are a cool way to bring New England vibes to your everyday style.

Robe Coats

For when you’re feeling extra, extra lazy. These are super ideal for quick dashes to the local bodega or coffee shop.

Peacoats

My preppy side is showing! You can take the girl out of Virginia, but you can’t take Virginia out of the girl.

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Friends! Do you feel that? That chill in the air that’s finally stuck around long enough to herald that fall is officially here?! Yeah, me too! And I couldn’t be more thrilled, because this season is my absolute favorite to dress for, in part because of knitwear. I’ll be straight up: I’ve amassed a healthy collection of cozy knits, chunky sweaters, and even a heavy skirt or two over the years. So this week, thanks to my own sweat equity, research, and personal cash investment (also known as shopping), I’m bringing you a list of five of my favorite brands for knitwear.

&Daughter

I first discovered &Daughter right around the time I started this newsletter, so it should come as no surprise that they’re on the list. Founded in 2013 by former publicist Buffy Reid and her dad Columba (a former director who’d wholesale Donegal tweeds and Scottish cashmere to UK stores like Browns in the ‘80s), the brand works with five yarns and five makers, and they know them all. (Check it out on the website, the story is awesome.) What I love most about the wool sweaters I’ve ordered from &Daughter is that they are 100% lambswool (warm!), hand-linked, and hand-finished. Other brands would charge you in the thousands of dollars for that kind of thing, but these are significantly cheaper. They’re still kind of “spendy,” as one might say, but deeply worth it—especially if your goal is to buy less and shop smarter.

Cos

There’s a big Row Ophelia versus Cos Viral Sweater debate happening over on Substack, but tbh, I don’t really care about that, and that’s not why Cos has made it on my list. (Buy what you want!) The reason I love Cos so much is because the price is always right to me. That means: I don’t feel like I’m having the wool pulled over my eyes (ha!) or I’m being price gouged when I’m shopping at the retailer. I’m getting quality, not-too-trendy, Scandi-inspired style that works season after season. If there’s a hole in my closet when it comes to knitwear and I don’t want to spend a ton of money on it, I know I’ll get a good bang for my buck at Cos. In short, I can impulse shop here and not feel bad about it.

J.Crew

One word: Duh. Okay, just kidding. A couple more words: The cashmere continues to get better season after season. Especially for a high street brand. I am personally obsessed with the simple men’s crewneck sweaters—usually ordered in a Medium for a ever-so-slightly-oversized fit, a recommendation that came from Dorsey founder Meg Strachan. I’m loving the designs for women this season, so I’ll toss a few of those in my cart, too.

Alex Mill

Alex Mill is another brand you can always count on for your classic essentials. I’ve been a day-one fan of the Nico cardigan, a cotton chunky knit that is perfect for anyone who may be allergic to wool. Layer a turtleneck under there, and you’re good to go. Similar to J.Crew and Cos, Alex Mill is also punching above its weight when it comes to pricing, offering high-quality products that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Extreme Cashmere

Around the same time I found out about &Daughter, I discovered a new-to-me brand called Extreme Cashmere during Paris Fashion Week. Founded by Saskia Dijkstra in 2016, the Dutch label creates various styles, each in single-size. I won’t say it’s a one-size-fits-all brand (because we all know that doesn’t really exist), but the products are genderless and unisize, so it’s more about finding an option for your body rather than getting stuck on a label or number. If money were no object, my collection of Extreme Cashmere would be much, much bigger. Highly recommend.

First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.

Friends! I’m finally returning to the newsletter after a truly chaotic last few weeks because of—you guessed it—work travel! Most recently, I was in L.A. for 36 hours, where Boucheron gathered a starry guest list (including Marie Claire November 2024 cover star Natasha Lyonne) at the Harvey House, to explore 167 years of jewelry history, told through displays of necklaces, earrings, and timepieces. We dined, we danced, we had an absolute blast. It also gave me the opportunity to brainstorm this week’s newsletter topic: the outfits I’ll always pack for this kind of work trip. I have to say, I think I did my big one this time around.

First, to set the stage, I took the 8 p.m. JetBlue flight to L.A. after a full day of meetings in New York. Naturally, I wanted to wear something comfortable enough to “sleep” in. I skipped my usual dedicated plane look, though, because it would take up unnecessary space. The result? A linen button-down, jeans, running shoes (which I could also hike in the next morning!), and a light jacket.

The next day started bright and early with a Runyon hike, a tour around LACMA, and then the Boucheron event. I felt especially proud of myself and the way I packed for this day because it was extremely streamlined. My hike outfit was just a pair of leggings and a sports bra, plus the jacket if I got cold. That afternoon, I wore the same jeans as on my flight, with a few strategic adjustments: I layered a white T-shirt under the aforementioned jacket, and replaced sneakers with loafers. The shoe swap gave my plane outfit an instant upgrade.

That evening, I changed into a tuxedo shirt (with my initials embroidered on it!), a black skirt, and heels. I forgot an evening bag, but a little pouch I borrowed from my friend held the few things I needed. Inspired by the Chanel 2026 runway, this combo styled together was dressy enough for the cocktail event. When broken apart, it could have yielded more than enough extra outfits if I decided to stay in L.A. for a few more days. It definitely reinforces my capsule wardrobe packing strategy.

The next day, I was back on the plane to New York, wearing my travel look from Tuesday. I actually always wear the same outfit to and from my destination—it’s one less decision to make! I highly recommend it.

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First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.

Hi, friends! It’s Halie LeSavage, Marie Claire’s senior fashion news editor, filling in for Nikki while she’s at Paris Fashion Week.

All month long, our team’s Slacks have been lighting up with our favorite looks from the runways. (See: the candy-colored bags at Dior and the freaky-chic rain boots at Loewe.) Having just returned to New York City from Milan Fashion Week myself, I’m still thinking as much about the street style I saw outside the shows as I am about the official collections. Fashion week attendees really know how to dress, after all. On the ground in Italy, I was inspired by elevated-yet-wearable outfit ideas and a strong showing of wear-everywhere jackets. So ahead, I’m sharing the four street style trends from Milan I’m getting ready to copy back home.

BARN JACKETS:

I reported on the rise of Euro-prep on Milan Fashion Week’s runways, aka an influx of Americana-coded polo shirts, button-ups, and country club loafers. I saw the same trend at play in street style, where guests made rugged barn jackets feel a lot more luxurious when paired to mixed-media or even feathered skirts. I’m tempted to try that daring combination—but I’m just as happy copying and pasting the same coats over plain old jeans and a T-shirt.

SKIRT PANTS:

I know there are some corners of the fashion world who’ll find a midi skirt layered over matching trousers “controversial.” I used to think so, too, until I caught some Milan Fashion Week regulars wearing theirs with sleek, pointed-toe kitten heels and an oversize leather jacket.

LEOPARD PRINT KICKS:

Every fashion capital seems to agree: Leopard really is a fall neutral. At Milan Fashion Week, I spotted (sorry!) ballet flats, Mary Janes, and pony hair loafers in the beloved print. Personally, I’m excited to spice up my day-to-day essentials with a leopard ankle boot.

POPS OF PLAID:

Here’s another flash of New York City style I caught all over Milan. Some guests tied plaid shirts around their waists over a silk slip dress; others mixed a drapey checked skirt with an oversize blazer. Mixed materials and heavy-metal accessories kept them from feeling too country.

Reading List

First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.

Friends! I hope this email finds you well and rested! I’m writing with Paris Fashion Week dressing on the brain. This weekend, I’ll be packing my wares and flying off to the City of Light for the last leg of fashion month shows.

In an effort to organize myself, I’m taking the opportunity to share what I’ll be bringing with me.

LUGGAGE:

Longtime readers will recognize most of this lineup. I’m scarred by stories of fashion week luggage getting lost or arriving late, so I tend to carry on two outfits just in case. Both this Dagne Dover duffel and Rimowa cabin bag give big Mary Poppins energy and hold an incredible amount of stuff.