Gifts They’ll Love This Festive Season: Even the Hard-to-Shop-For People

Gifts They’ll Love This Festive Season: Even the Hard-to-Shop-For People

 

Gift shopping can feel like solving a riddle, can’t it? The mom who insists she doesn’t need anything, the friend who already has everything, and the sneaky temptation to pick up something for yourself while you’re at it (it happens). To make life easier, I’ve pulled together a gift guide with something for everyone on your list. Have a peek!

 

For the Hostess Who Has Everything

The unwritten rule of holiday parties: never arrive empty-handed. A chic candle, a beautiful serving tray, or anything that screams “thoughtful but effortless” will make you the guest who gets invited back. Bonus points if it’s something they’ll use and not secretly re-gift.

 

Maison Balzac Vase

English Pear & Freesia Jo Malone London

Wave Coupe Glasses Set of 2 in Pink

Shaker Set in Dipped Metallic

Jonathan Adler Pillow

 

What’s on My Wishlist This Year

Let’s call this the gift ideas I’m casually hinting at. It’s the mix of pieces I’ve been stalking all season—little luxuries and “treat yourself” moments disguised as practical picks. Perfect for anyone on your list… including yourself.

 

Bal d’Afrique

Salt & Stone Santal and Vetiver Body Wash 

VoChill Stemless Wine Chiller

Dowin Pink Heated Blanket King Size 

Fuzzy Platform Slippers

Bamboo Bathtub Caddy – Brightroom

 

 

Gifts for the Men Who Say They Don’t Need Anything

Men are notoriously hard to shop for, but I’ve cracked the code: stick to things they’ll actually use. Think sleek accessories, upgraded basics, or a coffee gadget they didn’t know they needed but will absolutely brag about.

 

Crosley UO Exclusive Voyager Wooden Portable Bluetooth Audio Turntable

 

Sherpa Trucker Jacket

Burberry Hero Parfum

Nike Dunk Low Retro Men's ShoeDunk Low Basketball Sneaker 

 

Denim That Always Delivers

Finding the perfect jeans is basically an Olympic sport, but these picks make it easy. Classic styles, great fits, and pairs you’ll actually want to wear over and over. The kind of denim you’d never regret buying.

Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans

LEVI’S Western Jumpsuit in Blue

Ankle Column Corduroy Skirt

Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be a total nightmare. With these picks, you can cross everyone off your list and maybe even skip that last-minute dash to the store (we’ve all been there). For even more gift ideas, head over to my Instagram and LTK—I’m always sharing what I’m loving there. Happy gifting!

Transitional Fall-to-Winter Looks I’m Living In Right Now

Transitional Fall-to-Winter Looks I’m Living In Right Now

TRENCH COAT | GLASSES

Dressing for winter is never boring, and I’ve found a few key pieces that make braving the cold feel a little more enjoyable. Let’s get into what I’m loving this season.

Coats

A good coat is the ultimate cheat code for winter dressing. Oversized and tailored or sleek and minimal, it pulls everything together while keeping you warm—and always gives off an effortlessly polished vibe, no matter what you pair it with.

Short Trench Coat Jacket 

Claire Faux Leather Trench

Clyde Trench Coat

Apparis Sai Short Faux Fur CoatSai Short Faux Fur Coat

 

Sweaters

Sweaters are non-negotiable for me this time of year. Chunky knits, slouchy turtlenecks, or anything that feels like a hug—it’s all fair game. Pair them with jeans, skirts, or whatever’s closest, and you’re sorted.

Cove Cashmere Oversized Crew

Wool-Alpaca Blend Bouclé-Knit Oversized Sweater

Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater

Cai Fairisle Half Zip

Relaxed Fit Knitted Sweater

 

Jackets

A good jacket is the unsung hero of winter. It’s warm, practical, and perfect for layering over just about anything. I’m leaning into structured styles this year—think blazers and cropped silhouettes that add a little edge to the mix.

 

ImageBrooke Fairisle Knit Jacket

Leather-effect jacket with contrast stitching - General planeLeather-Effect Jacket 

 

Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots are the winter staple. They instantly elevate any outfit, whether it’s a dress, a skirt, or tucked-in jeans. Plus, they give you that “I’ve got my life together” vibe—even if you don’t.

Boots With Curved Upper

Frances Leather Black

Loeffler Randall

Colette Leather Black

 

Festive Dresses

There’s something about December that just calls for a little extra sparkle. Whether it’s a holiday party or New Year’s Eve, a good festive dress is non-negotiable. I’ve been loving anything with sequins or metallics this year—it’s the perfect excuse to feel a little over the top (in the best way). Add heels and a great coat, and you’re good to go.

 

Zenni Satin Dress

Anabella Lace-Up Satin Maxi Dress

Lucia Silver Dress

Contessa Velvet Dress

Em Black Dress

Winter is all about finding those staples that make you feel effortlessly chic, whether it’s a tailored coat, a cozy knit, or a festive dress that steals the spotlight. These are the pieces I love right now and will be styling all season long.

For more outfit inspiration and to shop my favorite finds, head to the blog and make sure to check out my Instagram and LTK—I’m always sharing more there. Cheers to staying warm, stylish, and just a little sparkly this season!

Your Black Friday Shopping Guide: What I’m Buying

BARBOUR JACKET

 

After a week of travel and finally settling back into London, I’ve found myself reaching for my go-to staples—cozy sweaters, chic skirts, classic coats, and boots that somehow make every outfit feel effortless. With Black Friday sales rolling in, it’s got me thinking about the pieces I wear on repeat and the ones I’ve been quietly stalking all year.

If you’re also in the market for timeless, high-quality finds that you’ll actually love wearing, I’ve rounded up a few favorites that are worth the investment. Let’s dive into what’s caught my attention this season.

 

BOOTS

Frances Leather Black

Colette Leather Black

Maryana Block Boots

Cass Leather Patent Black

 

DRESSES 

 

Mayve Knit Dress, zoom image 0Mayve Knit Dress

Dana Knit Dress, zoom image 0Dana Knit Dress

LA LUNE HIGH NECK TWIST MAXI DRESS - CREAM_FLa Lune High Neck Twist Maxi Dress

Audrina Black Dress

 

Skirts

Brandy Skirt, zoom image 0Brandy Skirt

zoomed imageUtility Mini Skirt

RITA PLEAT MINI SKIRT - DEEP INDIGO_FPLEAT MINI SKIRT

 

Sweaters

Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater, zoom image 5Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater

LIMA SWEATER - Merino wool cable-knit sweaterLima Sweater

zoomed imageRelaxed Fit Knitted Sweater

 

Coats

zoomed imageBuckle-Belt Trench Coat

Scott Trench Coat

100% leather trench coat with belt - General planeLeather Trench Coat With Belt

 

Jeans

501® Original Jeans

501® ’90s Women’s Jeans

501® 90’s Lightweight Jeans

Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans, zoom image 1Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans

 

These are the sales I’m most excited about this Black Friday, featuring timeless pieces from brands I love and wear on repeat. Did you see any products you like? 

Head to the blog to shop my top finds, and don’t forget to check out my Instagram and LTK for more sale updates and styling ideas all weekend. Happy shopping!

 

 

What I’m Eyeing This Black Friday

What I’m Eyeing This Black Friday

BARBOUR JACKET | SHOULDER BAG

 

I just got back from what felt like a blink-and-you-miss-it trip to Canada. Visiting family is always such a grounding experience, and I was hoping for a longer stay, but work called—well, Iceland did, technically. One minute I was sipping coffee with my mum, watching the snowfall, and the next I was fumbling for gloves I hadn’t packed, navigating -7°C winds, and marveling at how quickly a country can steal your heart (and your body heat).

Now that I’m back in London, I’ve been easing into the chaos of Black Friday. It’s one of those things I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with. On one hand, it’s a bit of a mad dash, isn’t it? Like the January sales but with more email notifications. On the other, it’s the perfect excuse to invest in pieces I’ve been stalking all year—especially from brands that care about craftsmanship, sustainability, and creating items you’ll wear for years, not weeks. For me, Black Friday isn’t about buying for the sake of buying; it’s about finally snagging those quality pieces that don’t just make your wardrobe—they make you feel like your best self.

Here are the brands I love, what I’m shopping for, and why you might want to join me.

 

& Other Stories

 

TRENCH COAT | JEANS | SHOULDER BAG 

 

There’s a reason I keep going back to & Other Stories—it’s classic without being boring and trendy without feeling like you’re trying too hard. Their knitwear is especially calling my name this year (think cozy, oversized, and perfect for layering under a structured coat). Black Friday deals make it the perfect time to grab those staples that somehow make you look put-together, even when you’re not. I’ve linked my favorites on:

 

 

Buckle-Belt Trench Coat

 


zoomed image
Belted Oversized Denim Jacket

 

zoomed imageShort Trench Coat Jacket

 

zoomed image Tailored Strappy Waistcoat

 

zoomed imageLeather Knee Boots

 

zoomed imageChunky Tall Leather Boots

 

Flattered

 

TOP  |  SKIRT BOOTS 

 

Ah, Flattered boots. If you’ve ever wondered what footwear could survive London’s rain, Canada’s snow, and my general life chaos—it’s these. I’ve had my Lia Black Leather boots for years, and they still look just as good as the day they arrived. They’re sleek, timeless, and somehow make you feel like you have your life together, even when you’re running late (always me). This Black Friday, they’ve marked down both the Lia and Cass Leather Patent Black boots, so if you’re looking for something durable and effortlessly chic, now’s your chance.

 

Cass Leather Patent Black

 

Carmen Leather Patent Black

 

Frances Leather Black

 

Levi’s

501® Levi’s® Original Jeans

 

Let’s talk about jeans for a moment. Finding the right pair is like finding the perfect cup of tea—difficult but so worth it when you get it right. For me, Levi’s 501s are the jeans. They’re comfy but structured, classic but cool, and somehow get better with every wear (which is great because I basically live in them). Both the US and UK sites are running Black Friday deals, so if you’ve been searching for denim that will never let you down, this is the time to act.

 

501® 90's Lightweight Jeans 1501® 90’s Lightweight Jeans

 

501® Original Jeans

 

711™ Skinny Jeans

501® 90's Shorts 1501® 90’s Shorts

 

Shona Joy

 

SATIN DRESS 

 

If there’s one brand that consistently delivers those “where did you get that?” moments, it’s Shona Joy. Their dresses are effortlessly elegant—perfect for weddings, date nights, or just those occasions when you want to feel a bit extra, I wore this powder blue dress to a wedding in Paris back in September, and honestly, I loved every second in it. It’s loose, soft, and ridiculously comfortable—basically the dream dress for dancing, eating, and just generally living your best life. I’ve spotted a few of their classics in the sale section, so if you’ve got a party or event coming up, I’d highly recommend taking a look.

 

CLAUDE LACE BACK BIAS MAXI DRESS - BLACK_AClaude Lace Back Bias Maxi Dress

 

LA LUNE CROSS DRAPED MAXI DRESS - DESERT ROSE_FLa Lune Cross-Draped Maxi Dress

 

LA LUNE HIGH NECK TWIST MAXI DRESS - CREAM_FLa Lune High Neck Twist Maxi Dress

 

Reformation

 

LOW-RISE SHORTS BOOTS 

 

Reformation has a way of making you feel like you’ve got your life sorted—even if you don’t. Their basics under $100 are a dream if you’re building a capsule wardrobe, and their denim-on-denim sets are the kind of cool you don’t have to think too hard about. I’ve been loving their sale picks this year—particularly for those timeless, eco-friendly pieces that you can throw on and instantly look like you’ve made an effort.

 

Max Slim Tee, zoom image 1Max Slim Tee

 

Nell Knit Top, zoom image 0Nell Knit Top

 

Wiley Knit Top, zoom image 0Wiley Knit Top

 

Raelynn Knit Top, zoom image 0Raelynn Knit Top

 

Away That Day

ONE PIECE SWIMSUIT

This one’s for my fellow swimwear obsessives. Away That Day has been a staple in my wardrobe for years, and their sustainable pieces strike that perfect balance between flattering and functional. With 30% off for Black Friday, now’s the time to grab a one-piece or suit of your choice you’ll feel amazing in—perfect for a holiday escape or just daydreaming about one.

 

Cannes Top – Black/Ivory

 

Rio Top – Espresso

 

Rio Top – Black


Mentone Half-Zip Knit Pullover

Black Friday can feel like a bit of a frenzy, but it’s also the perfect excuse to invest in pieces you’ll love for years to come. For me, it’s about finding those brands that align with what I value—quality, sustainability, and style that outlasts trends. 

If you want more details on my picks, head over to my LTK or follow me on Instagram for more styling tips, sale updates, and a peek into what I’m shopping for this season. Happy browsing—and remember, quality over quantity always!

The Holiday Dress Edit You’ve Been Waiting For

LA LUNE PLUNGED CROSS BACK MAXI DRESS

 

When it comes to holiday dressing, I always lean on timeless style—and nothing’s more classic than a little black dress. It’s effortlessly chic, endlessly versatile, and the perfect choice for any festive occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner party, a glamorous night out, or just an excuse to dress up, you can never go wrong with this wardrobe MVP.

If you’re in need of a standout dress for your holiday events, I’ve got you covered with these picks:

 

1. Reformation Milkmaid-Style Dress

 

CONTESSA VELVET DRESSHEELED LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS

 

How short is too short? When this Reformation dress arrived, I was smitten. The milkmaid-inspired design is beyond adorable, and the corset-like bodice gives it a flirty, vintage vibe. Not to mention, the crinoline adds a playful, full-skirted effect.

Here’s the deal, though: this dress isn’t the most practical. If you’re planning to stay perfectly still, avoid stairs, and, under no circumstances, pick something up off the floor—it’s your perfect match. For those rare moments when you can say, “Anything that happens behind me is none of my business,” this dress will absolutely steal the show. Bonus: it makes your legs look so long!

 

2. Nadine Merabi Dresses: The Power Pair

 

When it comes to structured, jaw-dropping dresses, Nadine Merabi delivers every time. I couldn’t decide between these two, so naturally, I tried both.

 

EM BLACK DRESS | POINTED TOE HEELS | ALINTA TOP HANDLE BAG

 

Let’s just say, getting into this dress required a little effort (and maybe some help). The structured fabric is so flattering—it hugs in all the right places and gives that chic hourglass silhouette. I paired it with sheer pantyhose for a polished, timeless look. And the straps? Totally removable for versatility.

 

AUDRINA BLACK DRESS | POINTED TOE HEELS

 

This one was much easier to zip up (thankfully). Similar in fit to the Em Dress, it has the same sculpted bodice and hip-hugging silhouette but with the addition of elegant long sleeves.This dress practically screams holiday party. Anyone need a plus one for their soirée?

 

3. Reformation: Sale Picks

 

Here’s a roundup of some similar styles that I love from Reformation:

 

MAYVE KNIT DRESS

 

DEFINA KNIT DRESS

 

DANA KNIT DRESS

 

Holiday dressing is all about feeling confident and chic, and these dresses deliver on both fronts. From structured silhouettes to playful hemlines, there’s something for everyone. In my opinion, whether you’re attending a lavish party or hosting your own festive gathering, a classic little black dress will never steer you wrong. 

 

Head over to my Instagram for more holiday outfits inspiration, and find all my top festive picks linked on my LTK!

© Laurie Ferraro 2018