Gifts for Em

As the Christmas toy catalogs have come rolling in, my children have gotten busy with scissors and glue — cutting and pasting to create larger-than-life wish lists. They won’t get most of what they’ve collaged, and they know that, but there’s still something exciting and anticipatory about curating a little collection of wishes.

I suppose even grown-ups aren’t immune :) In that spirit, I’ve pulled together a few items that would go on my own collage this year. Here’s hoping you might find something that would appeal to your sister, mom, mother-in-law, or friend, too. I’ve also rounded them all up here, if helpful!

On my wish list:

— A Jess Ray tee | I reach for a graphic tee most days in the summer and it would be fun to rep one of my favorite artists, especially around her hometown of Raleigh – I’m sure I’d run into no shortage of fellow fans! (I also highly recommend Walk in Love tees – I’ve snagged a few last designs as they prepare to close up shop later this year!)

— Washable silk skirt | I have seen so many women rocking this or a similar midi number lately and they always look chic. I’m eyeing the “wine tasting red” color.

— A Five-Year Journal | With time slipping by and kids who change so rapidly, I think this journal would be a lovely, simple way to remember our lovely, simple days.

— Textured gold heart earrings | If the track record of my other Julie Vos earrings is any indication, these beauties would get a lot of wear. (I wear the small pearls daily!)

— An anthology of poetry (or this one) | I’d keep either one on my bedside table and slice off a poem to savor each evening.

— A family hymnal | I researched many options to find what I was looking for – chords and lyrics for a wide selection of favorite hymns – and think this is it!

— A block print tablecloth | The loveliest neutral tablecloth that would be on repeat on our table throughout the fall.

— A big white serving bowl | We have already hosted far more in our new house than we did in our old (so grateful!). A few new pieces would make setting out food for a crowd a bit easier.

— The Varley half-zip | Every influencer and her mother seems to own one of these – but I saw my sister-in-law in one last fall and that’s what made me want to add one to my closet. I like the look of the ivory marl color!

— Gold huggie earrings | Honestly, I have worn my pearl studs so consistently for so long that my face looks weird to me without them – but if I were to branch out, I think a sculptural set of huggies might be an easy option.

And a few stocking items: these fold-out purse scissors, these gold candle stars, and, naturally, a Reese’s Christmas tree or two.

And now, here are a few things I own and love that I think are worthy of adding to your wish list – or considering for your loved ones!

Clothing:

— A cozy sweatshirt that gives back | Hope Heals, a camp where families with disabilities experience respite free of charge, is precious and dear. I bought these for five different women last year in addition to myself!
— The best striped tee (above) | I understand that this is stupid expensive for a t-shirt. But at cost per wear, it is pennies for me at this point. I wear it AT LEAST once a week – it’s the first thing I reach for whenever it’s clean. Plus, I got mine on ThredUp, which I highly recommend.
— Sleeveless linen dress | My favorite thing to wear in the summer! (Or this dupe, which my friend swears is just as good!)
— Summersalt swim suit | I have the Sidestroke, the Oasis, and the Marina and I love them all. I would order up at least one size, as I think they run small. Very fun one-pieces and they’re always getting compliments from other mamas at the pool!
— Lake Pajamas | It’s been almost a decade since I’ve worn any other pajamas (and in fact, still wear my original pair!). I wear the long-longs year-round and they feel so cool and silky. (I even added a holiday pattern last year!)
— Joggers | My one and only pair of joggers, and they are regrettably worth it. I have the lake heather.

Shoes and accessories:

— A personalized charm necklace (also above) | I gifted myself the Jane charm with four charms after seeing a dear friend’s chic necklace from this shop and I treasure it so much!
— My leopard sling bag | The chicest French silhouette and a fun pop of pattern.
— Shearling slippers | At hours-of-wear, this item of clothing would probably clock in at the top of my wardrobe – they’re my go-to from when I walk in the door to hopping into bed.
— Sneakers to wear with dresses | You may recall I asked for recommendations a few months ago for sneakers to wear with dresses. After considering many options, I’m happy to say I now have my own recommendations: the ultra low-profile Nike Killshot and the sportier New Balance 574.
— Julie Vos Penelope Demi Studs | I wear these 99% of days. Classic pearl studs with the loveliest gold-rim upgrade.
— A Boat & Tote with clever embroidery | I added a medium with long straps to my fleet this fall and it’s a welcome addition. I went with the antique olive color and had it embroidered with “a bientot” (“see you soon” in French!).

This post is already long, so I’ll save the non-clothing ideas – many of which feel more fitting for gifting to others – for next week! I also have posts in the hopper for grown-up and kid stocking stuffers as well as everyone’s favorite post: what we’re actually giving our kids this year!

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