Gifts for Em

9 November 2023

I had actually prepped the chocolate chip cookie recap earlier this week, but after the feedback on gift guide timing, I figured I’d swap this one in instead! (No worries – the cookies will be making their way to a blog near you soon!) You all were VERY enthusiastic about the idea of gift guides, which I love – we all want to delight our people with thoughtful gifts! Today, I’m sharing a few things on my personal wish list, as well as a few other items I own and love that you might want to add to yours. Let’s go!

On my wish list:

A new set of mixing bowls | The glass set of 7 bowls we took with us when we moved to North Carolina is down to three. This pretty set would be even better for all the little bakers joining me in the kitchen these days. (There’s also this set of 3 in a similar lovely green!)

The sweetest library bag | We visit at least every other week, and our arms are always overflowing.

A cozy blanket | It’s hard to choose from all of their patterns, but I think my favorite is the Harbor Herringbone in Cornflower. Use code HOLIDAY20 for 20% off.

A fun tennis bag | Could double for pickle ball, too :)

— 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. My current pair has multiple holes after several years, so it’s time for a replacement.

Sneakers | I desperately need new sneakers for actual athletic pursuits! Everywhere I turn it seems people are wearing On Clouds – thoughts? Any others to recommend?

White dinner plates | We have 8 dinner plates in our everyday white china from our wedding registry, and I’d love to add four more. With Articles Club and hosting family, they’d all get used!

Joggers | I don’t actually own a pair of joggers?! How is this possible in 2023? I’ve heard nothing but good things about these ones – I like the navy heather, lake heather, or stormy heather colors!

The prettiest white sweater | The embroidery! The daisies! The white-on-white! Gah, I love it.

Liberty track shorts | Divine. I have to ask for these as a gift because I’d never be able to choose a pattern on my own.

Something new from Alice Walk | Literally anything, ha! The Weekender was my gateway drug last year (see below), and I’d gladly add the three-quarter tee, the cloud top, the striped cotton mock neck, or the striped zip-up sweatshirt. The whole line looks like it was pulled from the set of a Nancy Meyers’ movie, in the best way.

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 wool coat in a fun color | My parents generously gifted a version of this coat to me last year (in punchy pink!), and it is SO fun to wear! This season’s green is gorgeous.
A tennis dress | One of my favorite new things I tried this year was taking tennis lessons, and I wore this dress (in green) almost every time. The dark periwinkle color is really pretty, too.
A soft, chunky sweater | I bought this on Black Friday last year and it is one of my favorite things in my closet. It’s easy (and so comfortable!) to wear, but looks really refined. The green is so good!
Clementine shorts | Made for athletic pursuits but they look cute enough to wear out and about with a tee. My favorite colors right now are the Zinnia, Rosewood, and Pistachio.
Kule tee | My favorite striped tee. I have the Classic in cream and navy, but it reads black and white to me.
— Summersalt swim suit | I have the Sidestroke and the Oasis and I LOVE them both. 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 approximately five years 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. (And you know I have my sights on a holiday pattern!)

Shoes and Accessories:

Maylis shoes | I own and adore the Ella heels (in cream) and the Catherine loafers (in Maylis blue). Both pairs are comfortable, beautiful, well-made, and required almost no breaking in. Still in awe one of my bestest friends has seen a dream come to life in this company!
— Tree Skippers | These shoes are incredibly comfortable and cute to wear with everything – dresses, shorts, jeans. Just make sure to wear no-show socks with them, as they are a bit prone to holes.
— Ugg Classic Mini II Bootie | I was dubious about adding these to my wish list a few years ago, but I am fully converted. Priceless for staying warm in the winter, especially with walking June to school and hanging with friends and neighbors outdoors.
Hunter Play Rain Boots | I used to own tall Hunter boots and almost never wore them, because they were uncomfortable and hard to take on and off. I received the shorter version for Christmas a few years ago and ADORE them! Perfect for rainy walks and school pick-ups.
— Julie Vos Penelope Demi Studs | I wear these 99% of days. Classic pearl studs with the loveliest gold-rim upgrade.

This post is already long, so I’ll save the non-clothing ideas – many of which feel more fitting for gifting to others – for early 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! AND, I’m going to try something new for the much-requested Yoto review – stay tuned! :)

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November 9, 2023 8:14 am

I always enjoy this post, Emily! We have that exact Chappywrap and it’s such a family favorite :)

Aleigha
November 9, 2023 8:51 am

This is one of my favorite posts and year over year your wishlist informs my own! I value any of your recommendations as I know you share items that are both excellent quality for the value and will stand the test of time!

Leigh
November 9, 2023 10:41 am

So many great ideas for my wish list! I can vouch for the Vuori joggers. I bought the navy heather for myself for my birthday last year. . . and then got a second pair in black. The fabric is wonderful and holds its shape in the knee. The pockets do show a bit more than in the marketing photos, I think, so be aware.

Val
November 9, 2023 12:58 pm

Love this post, Emily! For shoes I highly recommend going to a running store (I like Fleet Feet) to get fitted for the right shoes for you! They have tons of brands and can really help make sure your shoes fit your feet.

Katrina
November 9, 2023 2:49 pm

Ahh love this! I can’t wait to read the rest of the guides! I can attest – the Penelope studs are amazing!

Kaitlyn
November 9, 2023 10:15 pm

Ohh I absolutely love the library bag!! Thanks so much for sharing. These are sorely needed by some moms I know. I just ordered two! Aunt Kaitie to the rescue. ;)

Megan Nelson
November 10, 2023 2:15 am

I love this! I can vouch for the Alice Walk 3/4 length sleeve tees. They’re amazing! So flattering and comfortable. They wash wonderfully and I know they’ll remain staples in my closet. However, I was not the biggest fan of the on cloud sneakers. I am not athletic by any means, but even just for long walks I found my New Balance tennis shoes or even my Allbirds to be more comfortable.

Christine
November 10, 2023 12:50 pm

Your gift lists are some of my favorites! Thanks for taking the time to thoughtfully share.

Emma
November 12, 2023 9:41 pm

For shoes: I just got Kizik’s on another mom’s recommendation and I’m amazed at what a big difference the hands-free part makes in my life. They are super cushioned and comfortable too. Not running shoes but for a supportive, easy walking shoe they are awesome.