DECEMBER FAVORITES

I’ve shared this before on this blog, but December is a tough month every.single.year for me. You’re not alone if you feel this way too — this month marks the anniversaries of some really important people in my life who have passed: Lindsey and my grandfather. I don’t go a single day throughout the year without thinking of them both, but it hits particularly hard around Christmas time (which was also, of course, both of their favorite holidays). It’s so bittersweet and the grief never goes away. I like to take a step back from all the noise and reflect on my accomplishments thus far around this time of year, and I hope I’ve made them proud. Know that I’m with you if you have these feelings around the holidays too. PS: That’s why this blog is a fun way for me to decompress and share all my nonsense purchases and fashion favorites. It keeps me going. Without further ado, sharing some of the Christmas gifts I got this year and some other favorites — I’m forever grateful!! *Affiliate links are denoted with an asterisk*

fashion

Zara Collection Metallic Sequined Vest — Sequins have been having a moment this fall into winter, and it’s inspiring me to look through my closet in hopes of finding some items I can style to hop on the trend. This stunning vest is one of my most treasured pieces in my closet, not only because I purchased it in Italy in 2010, but because it also made an appearance in one of Lindsey and my titular lookbook videos from 2014. It’s super cool and I’m excited to style it in the new year… I feel like it’ll look cool paired over a turtleneck with a mini skirt of some sort. Stay tuned. Also linking a similar, available piece here from Amazon*.

Nasty Gal Faux Fur Trim Faux Leather Trench Coat * — Cue the ‘If I like it, I’ll get it in another color’ sound from Tiktok. I asked for this hue for Christmas (I already have the rust-red color that’s no longer avail sadly). It could use a little steam, but I’m excited to wear it over the next couple of chilly months. I’m loving the light fur contrast with the chocolate brown. Not to mention, it really helped give me the ultimate ‘Martha May’ look for Christmas.

Amazon Fashion Ribbed Crop Zip Up Set * — I spotted this set on LTK and knew I’d immediately have to have it for future WFH days. I’m obsessed with the style and shape, and it’s super cozy, too. It comes in a bunch of colors as well!

MISCELLANEOUS

Kodak PixPro Fz45 *— Eeep! I finally got a digital camera (thank you Seanner!). What’s funny is my OG pink Sony digital camera is probably sitting somewhere in my parents house (LOL), but I decided it was time for a new one with the trend coming back. It’s cute and compact, and I can’t wait to see it take some of my photos to the next level! (PS: This is the dupe of the more expensive Canon G7 recommended by Tiktok)

Red Ribbon *—Random, but been loving red ribbons for my hair! I think they add a nice pop to any outfit and are a fun addition to any type of look this winter whether it’s a casual sweater or a fancy dress!

Baublebar Ho Ho Ho Initial Ornament *— The sweetest gift from Lindsey’s aunt this Christmas. It looks super chic on my tree and I’ll be using it to deck out my tree for years to come. How adorable is the pearl detailing?!

CB2 Amber Smoked Glass Hurricane Candle Holder *— Last but not least, another Christmas gift from my parents! How gorgeous is this candle holder? It really elevates our space and adds a nice touch of dimension and color to our glass table. Simply obsessed.

Leaving you with the 2024 mood I know I’m going into the year with —

“Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them!”

[Twelfth Night 2.5]

Happy happy happy 2024! xoxoxo - A. Martine

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