OUTFIT DETAILS
SWEATER: old (very similar HERE) | LEGGINGS: Stateside | HOUSESHOES: UGG | WATCH: Michele
So… if you saw my IG stories from this past weekend you probably saw that my sister [aka. the Christmas Tree decorating magician!!] was in town & helped jumpstart the decorating process. My mom & sister have always been incredible w/decorating Christmas trees – my entire life people have always talked about their trees and asked them for advice and they tried to teach me their ways…and nope.. no such luck. :/ It actually became a tradition when we moved to Tulsa for residency for my sister to come spend the night and decorate my tree..(s). [lol I keep adding on!] Anyway, my BFF from undergrad lives near my sister so they drove in together along w/my niece Georgia Kelley & my mom came in as well to help. We seriously had the best time ever. They (mom & sis) are opposite of me in a lot of ways – which is part of why I think they are so amazing w/decorating Christmas trees. They are what I call ‘creatives’ – they just start throwing ribbon, ornaments, etc. on the tree (w/no strategy or process) and BAM! It looks amazing. Whereas I am one of those people who wants a thorough, step-by-step plan of how the tree will be decorated & that is so not how they operate. My dad was principal for a good chunk of my life (even at one point my principal) so I know how he is in a work environment & at home and I realize I am too much like him. He’s very type A and I have some of his tendencies. Luckily, I’ve spent so much time w/my mom & sis that they’ve rubbed off & I’m a bit more relaxed & also more able to think outside of the box when it comes to certain things. All of that to say that it was seriously a blast having them here – it was like a 24hour long party – tons of laughter, Reece’s Cups trees, non-stop story telling, Diet Coke, & of course lots of beauty talk.
Okay, wow this is going to be a lonnngg post haha. But, I promise I’m going somewhere w/this! I just noticed that when my girlfriends & family are over – it ends up being a “oh where’s that curling iron you love? I wanna try it?” or even “Emily, help me w/my eyebrows”.. tons of beauty talk. I actually love it because well- it’s my love language! But also, they all have different skin/hair types & issues than me so it gives me a chance to try my ‘favorites’ on them and see how they work or even if they work. And then I can come here and give an honest review on how something performs for me and how it performed for my mom who is concerned about aging skin, ya know?!
Nordstrom reached out and asked if I wanted to partner for a holiday gift post and ironically I was already ordering several gifts off of the site for some friends/family – most of which were beauty related, oops! I’m trying to not be super chatty in this post [too late, oops!] so basically I think I’ll just list the top TEN things that could potentially be BIG hits as gifts for your girlfriends. My mom & sis always tell me I’m good at getting them gifts they love & use regularly which is actually a goal of mine. I hate thinking that I gave someone something that totally goes to waste or never gets touched, ya know? Alright so here we go – 10 products that I gift often that end up being loved by my girlfriends OR that I am giving to a girlfriend/family member this year! PS. There are way more than 10 products that I’d recommend but I’m just recapping the 10 that are tried & true!
#1. ORIBE VOLUME POWDER || This product is ideal for any girl who is into having volume in her hair. I have thick hair and I love it because it’s one of the only products that really lifts the root of my hair and keeps it from being weighted down. This weekend I walked into my bathroom and my mom, sis, & Audrey were all using this on their hair– because it is so good and works on lots of different hair types.
#2. HOUSE SHOES / SLIPPERS || This is not beauty related but I will say that the one thing we end up gifting someone in our families (even dads) each year is a pair of UGG house slippers. John and I both have a pair that we wear ALL winter long as well as my mom & dad. But, I noticed over the weekend that THESE mules/slippers were constantly being fought over! It’s funny because I actually wear those around the house but also wear them out and about. They are not only warm, but easy to slip on and go and also don’t have a ‘house shoe’ look.
#3. SILK PILLOWCASE || If you’ve read my hair posts over the past couple of years, you know I swear by these pillow cases. They are great for your skin as well as your hair. AND, they also just feel good & cold. 🙂 You all know I’m crazy ab my detergent and I always wash my guest bedrooms sheets in a certain detergent before they stay because I like for it to smell super good – well I also always use one of these pillowcases if one of my beauty loving girlfriends is staying over. In fact, I got this one for my friend Audrey because this summer she stayed the night & asked about it and told me she was ordering one and I was like “no!!!” bc I had already gotten her this one!
#4. VALENTINO PERFUME/LOTION SET || I know this is not the easiest gift to give [since it’s a scent] BUT I just ordered this set because I was running low on my perfume & realized it was a better value to just get this set. My mom always uses my perfume so I thought I’d just give her the lotion that came w/the set since I already have the lotion. This scent is actually always popular w/all of my friends & family – its nothing crazy but smells girly & clean and it doesn’t hurt that the bottle is so cute! 🙂
#5. GUCCI BELT || Lol. Okay, so this is a total splurge gift or something you are saving your Christmas money for but I will tell you – I have noticed that SO many of my friends are asking their parents or husbands for one for Christmas. I have had tons of girls ask me about sizing recently because they are adding it to their ‘wishlist’! The Gucci belt has became the ‘IT’ belt over the past year or so. I have always loved belts since I am a half tuck-er (lol) and I remember being like 12 weeks pregnant in Aspen at the Gucci store and wanting this belt SO badly. This was before they were popular so they actually had my size! John loved it too and told me to get it and I decided not to because I knew I couldn’t wear it much longer. Fast forward to having Luke and getting back into my regular jeans and guess what – the belt was sold out in my size completely!! Err! Luckily, I just found it in my size last week and got it. It’s also what my mom asked for for Christmas – she helps us with Luke SO much so I like surprising her with things she really wants! *As far as sizing goes, I asked the girl at the store what size I needed if I am a 27 in jeans and she said a 90. I really love the way the 90 fits – I can wear it w/higher wasted jeans or jeans that sit around my hips. You can always call the Gucci store before ordering and ask!
#6. Jo Malone Handsoap || So this is kind of a splurge in my book but I think it is a great gift for that friend who has EVERYthing. Last week my girlfriend was telling me she didn’t know what to get her friend for her bday – and that the girl has everything & this was the first thing that came to mind. This is what I use in my powder bath but no where else.. lol. It’s expensive! Ironically when John and I were in Tampa for Jaclyn Hill’s bday party- I noticed she uses it in her powder bath, too. The scent kind of sticks to your hands like the perfumes do and it I love most of Jo Malone’s scents. Honestly, I think you’d have to use this soap on your hands totally trust me on this haha. It’s definitely a step up from a basic soap from the drug store or even a Bath & Body Works one!
#7. DKNY Deodorant || Ha, I know I am recommending this as a gift and some may say “oh I’d be offended if someone gifted me deodorant!!!” but just trust me on this. I’ve mentioned before I saw Amber Fillerup talk ab this on Snapchat years ago and I remember being like “huh? twenty-something bucks on deodorant?!” however, I’m a ‘don’t knock it till you try it person’ so I actually smelled it when I was in Sephora and I totally understood the obsession. It smells SO fresh & so clean (cleannnn, ha!). It’s like a perfume but nothing crazy – just super clean and fresh and wonderful. And it’s one of the items in my bathroom that everyone comes downstairs and uses when staying w/me bc it’s so good. This would be great as a gift but also great for again for that friend who ‘has everything’.
#8. IMPRESSION MIRRORS || One item that I get asked about a lot from readers and social media followers is my makeup mirrors. I have one I keep in my handbags & use mostly when I have to get ready in the airport – which happens everytime we travel! But also, I use one on my vanity. These are not super high price points and I wouldn’t mind if I got the bluetooth/audio one for Christmas (hint hint, JG!!).. 😉 Both of these are great gifts and gifts that are super functional!
#9. LIPSTICKS || I know this can be hard because you never know what color someone may need or want or even the formula they prefer but I absolutely ADORE the new matte YSL lip stains. They are not drying at all and don’t feel matte at all – which is why I see them being a great gift or stocking stuffer even. I love the nude shades the best of all!
#10. STATEMENT EARRINGS || Over the years I have noticed that earrings can be SUCH a great gift. My BFF Elle often gives me earrings and I end up wearing them to pieces, literally. One pair she gave me and I wore them a ton and my mom ended up taking them! They’ve definitely gotten their money’s worth! When my girlfriends and family are over, I notice that we are all going through the earring section of my jewelry stand. The post popular earrings are the fun, colored statement earrings. I’ll link them in the widget right below! [Linking pairs under $40!]
Okay – done – for now anyway! I am curious as to what your top go-to gifts are for someone who is ‘hard to shop for’ or is a girlie girl?! Fill me in!
Photos by Dale Benfield.
Thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring today’s post.
Totally yes to gucci belt, home slippers and lipsticks as great gift idea for girlie girls in our families/ friends circle. 🙂
http://lartoffashion.com
I love when you write a super long Post 🙂 ive been eyeing the slip pillowcase for over a year… i think its time to take the Plunge.
Ordered the pillowcase online and Got a 25% discount. Try searching oNline first 🙂
Ya’ll are so cute! Great gift ideas. BTW last i checked the Stateside leggings were still available on Revolve xoxo So cozy.
Perfect choices! Love this post and those cute pictures!
http://www.jessicabroyles.com
This is a fun post! I was especially excited when I read (drumroll)….
nummmmbbbberrrrr 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yay!!!!!
I always ask for lipsticks and earrings! Great Christmas list items!
briana
https://beyoutifulbrunette.com/
What a great, detailed post! love reading your stories. besides wanting every item for my own wish list, def got some great inspiration for my girly friends!
The pics look amazing. Luke is such a precious baby and Fitzy is adorable!
i HAVE BEEN WONDERING ABOUT THE VALENTINO PERFUME. i CURRENTLY USE VERSACE YELLOW DIAMOND AND LOVE IT, BUT WHEN YOU SAID THE VALENTINO HAS A CLEAN SMELL, IT GOT ME HOOKED. i HAVE TO GO TRY IT NOW!
Hello! Happy thanksgiving! Where did you find your fun toy soldier/nutcrackers you showed photos of last christmas on the blog? I love them! Thanks!
CAn you tell me about the mirror over your fireplace? LOVE!!!
Little beauty gifts are always so fun to receive!
xx,
Lacey
The Glitter Gospel
I love your blog! I have been following you on instag for a long time , & i just started reaDing your bloG.
I love your style!
#yourfanfromspaIn❤️
Hi emily! I am obsoulEtly obSessed with you ? your style is pure perfection, clothing wise and home decor! Ps your last name is also amazing…Future baby name miss gemma!!! Happy holidays goRGeous.
I’m so in love with your decor! I’m very in my bubble of cool toned neutRals but I am rapidly changing. Xoxo
This is such a great GIFT guide! I have some very picky sisters so this is great! THank you
working at the hospital and then late dinner with the family.
I absolutely Love your christmas ideas!! So adorable.
Love this! Thanks for sharing
Love love love all your posts?
Love all of these ideas!!! Thank you thank you thank you.
i love your style!
I love all your content and style. I always follow your likes to know it and rey to snag some cute swag. Thanks for beibg you. Hope you have a wonder Thanksgiving!
Love seeing your outfits for all occasions. Thank you also for the GiFt ideas. You always have the latest trends and gift ideas that help me so much with my girls and buying for the girl that has everything ???
Obsessed with that Gucci belt
Love this!! were headed to bOston for thanKsgiving and cant wait!!
Love these outfits!
All of these are such great gift ideas! I’ll totally be purchasing a few of these for my Friends Who are tough to Shop For!
These are awesome IDeas
I’m so OBSESSED with your home decor!!!
So many good gifts! And these photos are so cute!!
Love the stripe pants with pink top!! It screams holidays without being the typical red and green.
Thank you so much for all the gift ideas:) love your blog
Your son is adorable. I have twin girls and This will be their First CHRISTMAS and i look forward to decoratIng with Them!!!
Love your blog
Your Dog is the cuteSt! I have a cockapoo and much like yours, they love their mammas and are like giant teDdy bearS!! Your hair is so amazing even in a messy bun!! Do you Have extenSions in?? Thanks for sharing!
Another wonderful HAND SOAP is the nest brand. I buy mine from on a whim here in tulsa. Its my husbands favorite, and it also makes for a nice gift around the holidays. Woodland truffle is My favorite fall/winter scent. Its so fun to keep up with your blOg because we have similar taste and you’re in tulsa! Crazy! ?
I’m OBSESSING over all of your CHRISTMAS decorations! I don’t nor put a ton of ornaments on my tree, but after watching you guys decorate your tree i had to go out and buy more ornaments and ribbons to try to make it as beautiful as yours!
Also loving the gucci belt trend. Thats definitely on the top of my christmas list this year!
Love all the ideas!!
Xoxo
I love seeing all your sweet family pictures! Also i wish i could decorate my house like yours, its bEautiful ?
Great plans for tksgiving sharing with family
I love these ideas and will def be buying some to try! Would love to hear From your mom on good gifts she receIves as a teacher!
Love these picTures!!
Hi! I will be spenDing my morning Flying home from disnEy and then goIng to my grandMas for dInner with my family!!!
Love the gift ideas! i hope you and your beautiful family have a wonderful thanksgiving!
Luke just sitting there adoring his mommy so freaking adorable.
Love these leggings…they are adorable…almost as adorable as your little man!:)
My daughter is dancing during the Dallas Cowboys THANKSGIVING game so we are going to the game to watch her perform! Love your blog! Happy Thanksgiving!
Love your blog! ?
I love following you on instagram – iTs great to see a blogger from the plaiNs region. Im in tulsa frequently For my husbands work/ maybe i will see yoU out shopping Sometime!
Spend the day with my family!
My plans for thankSgiving are going to Be very simple which i love the simpler the better. I am curently a collage Student so any time i get to come home a be With the family is a Great time for me. We will all be gathering at my mothers house watching movies and playing board games. Simple but very fun!!
Emily, i loveeee your blog and all your posts. I especially lOve how down to earth you are and how kind yoU are to your followers. Happy hOliDays!
I absolutely love your style. EspeCially all of your christmas decor. Seriouly aDorable.
Please post about all of your black friday finds! i cant wait to see the Deals!
You have the best style!
You showed some gold shimmery makeup brushes in an IG video recently. do you recommend those for gifting? If so, COULD you link them? Thanks!
Thanks for the great gift ideas! I’ll definitely be adding a few of these items to my holiday gift closet!
ABSOLUTELY love your home decor style!!!
I love all of your fashion ideas and your home is something to aspire for!
Love the gift ideas!
Love!!
My Thanksiving plans are to travel to cincinatti to be with my husband’s parents, grandparents, sister and her family! Im blessed to have wonderful in-laws and my mother-in-Law is an amazing cook! Happy Thanksgiving!
I remember this kind of post from last year and I love that you are keeping the tradition 😀 It looks so cozy!
For thanksgivng my famiy and i always go to my aunts house and we eat and hangout and watch movies and play games Pretty much all day and then eAt some more! its great! 🙂
Love All your bloG POsts! They are so inspiring! THank you so much!
All of these ideas are perfect! Always so hard to buy for my gorlfriends. Love your style!
Love love this post and all your pink/ black & white! GreAt gift iDeas, eSpeically the jo malone soap! Cannot wait to purchase!
What is your #1 Go to for a body exfoliater/lotion for super dry Skin in the winTer?
I cannot find where to enter the LV wallet giveaway– AM i missing somehting?
Your tree is seriously incredible!! Amanda really needs to be charging 100s of dollars to do that for people!! Also Luke and Fitzy are too darn cute in these photos 🙂
xx Tess |Sequins are the New Black
We are headed to Kansas city and going oUt ti eat. This is new for us but im looking forward to it!
These picTures are perfect!!!
Love the iDeas! Thanks
My Thanksgiving plans consist of the Macy’s parade on tv , Christmas music and decorating my third tree in our new house early in the day. (One of my trees are inspired by YOUR whimsical one) and then driving into NY to celebrate thanks giving dinner with family. Your giveaways are awesome and so are you!
I love your blog emily. Keep going.
LOVE the ooj bottoms! So comfy
http://www.luellapearl.com
Caitlin
Absolutely LOve this!! Thanks for sharing ideas!
Wish i could fit that gucci belt! I️ just Had a baby so im losing baby weIght now and cant ourchased it. Maybe i could And that can be extra motivation!?
Would love To win this fab wallet!
These outfits are to die for!! Love the loOse fitting ones to make room for even more food!
Cant find where to comment for the giveaway?!… hope this works.. your blog is gReat by the way
Love all your outfits!
These are really good GIft ideas (That i want for myself ??♀️)
P.S….love, love, love your pink RuG!
https://www.bluelabelsboutique.com http://www.fashionnotfear.com
This is seriously the cutest thing ever ?
I woulD love to win the louis vuitton wallet!!! You are so fashiOnable snd beautiFul!!!
First of all, i love your instagram feed and your blog!! You asked us to comment on what we were doing for thanksgiving. We host my husband’s (very large) polynesian Family every year. This year wE hosTed early since One of my Husbands 4 brothers was in toWn from Texas. It was such an amazing (very loud) thanksgiving, full of love and APPRECIATION for eachother. It ended with all of the brothers performing a haka (native Maori dance fRom new zealand). Favorite holiday of the year!!!!
Thanks for all the xmas presents recommendations. I would also always consider a dyptique candle as a beautiful xmas present. otherwise, a little Lv accessory like a keyholder. cannot wait for xmas to come ! warm wishes from switzerland. alice
Love your recommendations! definetly want the gucci belt.
xoxo
sharan
http://www.mygoldenbeauty.com
I love your Christmas decorations and hour wrapping paper. Where’d you get tge pink with gold deer anylers paper?
The BEST guide! And you are so cute.. I can’t wait for more guides like that! I also can’t wait to start wrapping gifts!!! ???
Rania
Love that gold & white wrapping paper… can you share where it’s from?
Just simply wished to express I am glad I stumbled onto your site.
WIll you please share info/Link on where you purchased your pink rug? I have been searching for similar with no luck! Would really appreciate it!