My second gift guide was one of my favorites to put together because it’s my actual wish list! Some items are from brands I already love, while others came highly recommended. Some I’ve had on my list for years and others are newer finds. All of them are relatively timeless and mostly snuggly staples that fit my current lifestyle (aka, #quarantinelife).
And, while I’d love to say that all of them fill a very necessary hole in my wardrobe or home, there is not much I actually need this year. Nonetheless, if any one of these things showed up under our tree… I would be positively thrilled!
1. Margaux Pointe Ballet Flats – Confession: I’ve had these flats on my list for years! I have a similar version from J.Crew that I have spent at least 3x their value on in repairs because I just love them so much. These, well, they are infinitely better quality. Margaux is a brand I really admire – they utilize family-owned factories but sell directly to consumers so they can offer a luxury product at a more reasonable price. Not only are they well made, but they come in a plethora of sizes (and widths!) and even their flats have multiple foam layers for comfort. Lucky for me, Christmas came early this year and I’m so excited to share that I’m now a Margaux Ambassador! The brand sent me this exact pair (the saddle color is oh so dreamy) and I cannot wait to give you low down soon! I can confidently say these would be a great gift for yourself or classic, chic and flat-loving friends and fam!| $198 *use PURELYNORA for 10% off!
2. Bali Small Hoops – I’ve never had to pretend like I don’t love gold hoops (Mean Girls anyone?) but I have to say, this pair is the golidlocks of hoops – not too big, not too small…juuuust right. My favorite necklace is by the same brand (and featured was in my last gift guide). I love how ther 18K gold plate won’t irritate my sensitive skin. So fun for your bestie, cousins or sisters!| $50
3. Trigger Mug – Oh how I love Bennington Potters! This family owned and run pottery shop makes everything, by hand, at their Vermont location. I stumbled upon this company because my favorite mug at our friend’s lake house is from here! I have the muffin tin and pie pan and hope to add the mug to my collection. If blue isn’t your jam, there are other colors and glazes, too! Comes in 11 oz. and 14 oz. The baking dishes are lovely for bakers (like my mom) and the trigger mug will be excellent for my in-laws, who love to hunt. | $18
4. Carmella Knitted Cable Sweater – I have another confession. I bought this for myself already. I KNOW. I couldn’t wait! After seeing it on my best girl Claire and then seeing it on sale… well, I had to go for it. Last time I wore it about 15 of you asked me about it so I think you’ll like it too 😉 Joules is a new-to-me brand that I’m seriously impressed with. The classic cable, not-too-high turtleneck and cozy but not frumpy fit are everything I look for in a sweater and I know I’ll have this piece for years to come! Clothes are such a personal gift, but if you have a woman in your life who loves a cozy moment and appreciates the classics, I know she’d love this! | $112.95
5. Numero Uno Nano – I’ve had my eye on Polène’s signature handbag since it was released but, to be honest, love this smaller version even more! It’s essentially the chicest crossbody I’ve ever seen, but with the structure and style of a larger purse. The camel color is droolworthy and – scouts honor – I don’t have anything like it already! Great for the gal on the go, hopeful traveler and city slicker, too! | $260
6. No. 1 Candle – Candles are not a stereotypical gift when they are clean and chic! I’ve been working my way through a zillion candle recs and this one from Follain is next on my list to try. Anything with sandalwood and vanilla is a win in my book! This would be perfect for homebodies or as a way to introduce family and friends to clean products! Candles are a great white elephant gift or stocking stuffer, too. To spruce it up… see #7. | $38
7. Match Holder and Striker – My friend Caroline recommended this and she is the candle queen. Most matchboxes are kinda boring or too bright, so this fits in perfectly with neutral decor and is handmade to boot! It’s a thoughtful touch that most people wouldn’t think to buy for themselves. I also love that its from a small, woman owned Etsy shop. | $28.99
8. Brooklinen Sterling Sweatshirt and Buerum Jogger – My friend Lindsae raves about these sets and since I wear loungewear 4/7 days a week, I am willing to splurge on a nicer set! I love that they can be worn together or separately and that they make mens styles too (all about that family match life). These are awesome for good friends and partners who are staying at home and want to up their loungewear game. | $65 and $75
9. Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss – I have been wanting to try this Black woman owned brand for months and am so glad most of the products are back in stock! I’m still in the midst of testing clean shave products and razors and OTP stuck out to me not only because they are clean and care about their ingredients, but they care just as much about the messages they send to their customers too. OTP aims to create products that help their customers feel great about the skin they are in, literally and figuratively, not a “perfect” or “flawless” ideal. This body gloss has my all time favorite oil, squalane, plus rosehip and avocado oils and looks postively dreamy. It can be used as a body serum (my new fave concept) or a moisturizer on its own.
10. Energy Muse Starter Kit – Hi my name is Nora and I’m reaaaaally interested in learning more about the healing power of crystals. I love taking Energy Muse’s Crystal Test (Claire and I always get the same ones) but I’ve never actually taken the plunge. I know this is a totally niche gift but how fun would it be to take the test with a friend and then use the results to head to a local crystal shop? | $29.95
11. Caraway Fry Pan – I swear by my Our Place Always Pan (mentioned here) but I do kinda miss having a smaller fry pan. This non-toxic ceramic option from Caraway fits the bill – and the colors work so well with Our Place! At this point in my life, I am okay with saving up and spending more money on a safer, quality pan that I’ll have and use forever. The pan set would be a great gift for engaged couples but I love that you can buy everything separately too. | $95
12. Chic AF Backpack – City meets country! These days our walks are our escape and our chance to enjoy our new area. And while my trusty fanny was great during the summer, we need more things (snacks, water, layers) as the seasons shift. This backpack is practical but cool, and could be used for non-atheletic things too. The brand comes highly recommended and is a NYC gym staple. | $135
13. Sezane Jumper – If I could, I would dress in head to toe Sezane every day (there’s still time, friends). I have this jumper in cream and it is one of my favorite pieces. Why? It’s flattering, super soft, reversible, practical and multi-seasonal. Plus the wrapping is so lovely you pretty much can just wrap the shipping box! Perfect for that special lady in your life. | $120
14. Burleigh Plates – I need plates like I need a hole in my head but I’ve had Burleigh on my list for years and now that we’ve packed most of ours, I miss our blue and white tablescapes. A set of four in a few patterns would be such a sweet touch to our temporary home! These would make a wonderful wedding, engagement or couples gift, too. Truthfully, anything Burleigh would impress a blue and white lover! | $25 each for lunch size *Northern NJ locals, F. Gerald New carries Burleigh too!
15. Bamboo Flatware – Another long time item on my list! I love the classic but whimsical touch that bamboo brings to a place setting. These are a great price when on sale and would be so fun with the Burleigh plates! | $45 per setting
16. Tall UGG Boots – Haters gonna hate, but I’m a lover and I have to say I cannot get enough of UGGS! Growing up in Chicago, going to school in upstate New York and now living in the tri-state area I have to say these are a lifelong staple. At one point, I probably had over 6 pairs and yet somehow my 33 year old self has zero. I really love these for around the house – like a tall version of slippers! | $199.95
17. Luxurious Robe – I saw this on my friend Emily and totally fell for it. I adore Weezie products and you’ll see them peppered throughout my guides. The style is very Leontine meets Matouk but at a much more attainable price point. They make a men’s version of this robe, too! | $175
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