We had a lot to be grateful for in November, and we each loved spending Thanksgiving with all our favorite humans. With that holiday being over, we can say that the Christmas season is officially here, and we ended the month of November by diving right into all the things Saint Nick would approve of. We are whipping out all the hydrating products we love for winter, and all the scents and sounds that make our hearts sing with the joy of the season. These are our monthly favorites for November!
skincare
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Slip Tint by Saie
Just because the sun is out less, does not mean you get to start skipping on the sunscreen! This tinted moisturizer is a favorite of mine because it has SPF and a bit of coverage, perfect since I go makeup free 90% of my days.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Body Firm by Crepe Erase
This thick cream is the original product in Crepe Erase's full line and I use it on my neck, chest, arms and knees. It claims to help with elastin and collagen production and has hyalurinc acid to help hold moisture on the skin. Great for the upcoming cold and dry months.
hair
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray by amika
On days where I am looking for perfectly tousled texture, I reach for this spray. It adds volume and gives a great perk-up on days where my hair falls flat. It’s also great for achieving the "undone" matte waves of your dreams.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Le Volume 75MM Brush Dryer by L'Ange
Because I have curly hair, blow drying my hair in the past has led to frizz and dry ends. With this blow dryer, I can now do better blowouts than my hair stylist. My hair is smooth and full of volume and in half the time.
makeup
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Ambient Lighting Powder by Hourglass
I have been a fan of this highlighter (in "Diffused Light") for as long as I have worn makeup. It gives a beautiful, subtle glow and looks beautiful on so many different skin types. My mom uses and loves it too! If you’re not a fan of a blinding highlight, I recommend this completely.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Faux Mink Wispies by Ardell
My sister does hair in the entertainment industry (tv and films) and told me that these are the strip lashes that most makeup artists use on set. I spent a small fortune on lash extensions for a few years and when the pandemic hit, I went back to these trusted lashes.
fragrance
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
By the Fireplace by Maison Margiela
I bought this to use as my signature scent for Ireland, and it has carried right on through November. It's warm and smoky, perfect for fall and winter. Plus, whenever I spray it I am transported right back to the Emerald Isle.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Karma Solid Perfume by Lush
I love this solid perfume pop-up stick that is so easy to bring anywhere. I keep one in my purse to reapply mid-day and the heavenly aroma also comes in soaps, shampoo bars, candles, and even a shower gel. Sustainably made with organic ingredients.
clothing
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Holiday Knit Sweaters by Kiel James Patrick
If you know me, then you know that my KJP sweaters come out as soon as the holiday season is in sight. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas. You name the holiday, and there is a KJP sweater for it. I love them because they are adorable dressed up or down.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Women's Pants by Banana Republic
As a tall woman, finding pants in the right length can be a challenge. My go-to for trousers is Banana Republic because most come in tall lengths and they have a nice stretch to them, providing a beautiful, classic fit. They always have promotions and great sales!
shoes
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Piano Heels by Intentionally Blank
These vintage-inspired mary janes are the perfect pumps to add to your wardrobe this holiday season. Comfortable, adorable, and the perfect dupe for the pricey Kinas by Carel. Cross or uncross the straps and pair them with tights, bare legs or a frilly sock.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Hendrix Heels by Jeffrey Campbell
These keep popping up on my feed and I love how cute they look with dresses or jeans. They come in so many different color options, so there is a pair for everyone. They are definitely going on my Christmas wish list!
accessory
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Lambswool Oversized Scarf by TBCo.
Searching for the perfect cold weather accessory? Look no further than this woven lambswool scarf from Tartan Blanket Co. Sustainable, warm, designed in Scotland, and a beautiful houndstooth make this scarf an incredible addition to winter outfits.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Liberty Sling Bag by Urban Originals
I bought this crossbody bag for Ireland and I absolutely love it! It was the perfect size for a travel purse and comes in many different colors. You can even mix and match the straps! I might get another to be able to change it up with different outfits!
health
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Yoga Block Set by Clever Yoga
There’s really nothing extraordinarily special about these, but decent yoga blocks are vital for a balanced and customized practice. As the weather gets colder, yoga becomes one of my favorite forms of movement, so I keep all my gear front and center.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Insight Timer App
This app is a regular part of my health and wellness routine. It has 150,000 free guided meditation tracks from psychologists, spiritual leaders and mindfulness teachers. Everything from sleep meditations, breathwork, and even yoga practice.
home
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland by Darby Creek Trading
These garlands are absolutely beautiful and a great alternative if, like me, you can't get the trendy Afloral one before it sells out. I bought mine 30% off during the Black Friday sale and they come in many lengths to fit all your decorating needs.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Fresh Balsam Candle by Bath & Body Works
It "officially" becomes Christmas time when I go to the store and purchase this candle. I love the warm, delicious scents of balsam and eucalyptus that evoke feelings that make me want to curl up on the couch with a big fluffy blanket in front of a fire.
food
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Get Burning Herb Tea for Metabolism by The Republic of Tea
When the weather gets cooler and the days get darker, I crave tea 24/7. This is my go-to when I am at work because it is packed with stimulating ingredients that get my mind and body moving. The ginger, cinnamon and chili pepper warms my soul.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Coconut Whipped Topping by So Delicious
You can buy this whipped topping at any grocery store in your frozen section next to the cool whip. I have swapped this out for my ice cream indulgences at night. I put 2 tablespoons on fresh berries with a little cinnamon and it satisfies my sweet tooth.
book
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
One Day In December by Josie Silver
I'm a huge fan of a seasonal read, and this novel by Josie Silver is such a good one. As soon as Thanksgiving festivities are over, I go into full-blown Christmas mode and starting that season with a good book by the fire is exactly what I need to kick it off.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendship by Nina Totenberg
This is currently in my que to read, but my former boss raved about it. She said if you want an insight to the struggles of being a woman in a man's world, or a glimpse into the inner workings of the Supreme Court, then this is the book for you! I can't wait to read it.
movie
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Home Alone
Every year my husband and I watch Home Alone while we decorate our Christmas tree (usually right after Thanksgiving). It is so nostalgic to me because it reminds me of our early years, when we were decorating a small tree in our apartment with dollar store ornaments.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Somewhere in Time
This beautiful love story is about a playwright who becomes fascinated by a photo of a woman hanging in the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. He hypnotizes himself and travels back in time to meet the woman, and ends up falling in love. I was lucky enough to step back in time, when I stayed at the hotel this movie was filmed at! Magical!
television
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
The Walking Dead: Dead City
The original series (and spooky season) may have come to an end, but I am living for these spinoff series that keep the main characters' story lines going. Negan is one of my favorite characters on the show, so I love getting to see more of JDM in action.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Last Tango in Halifax
My sister told me about this series after I told her I was looking for a feel-good something and this delivered! It's about two highschool sweethearts reuniting after 60 years and falling love. The characters are sweet and complex. My husband and I both loved it!
music
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
The Best of Pentatonix Christmas by Pentatonix
Keeping with the theme of getting in the mood for Christmas, I obviously start playing holiday music right after Thanksgiving, too! This Pentatonix album is one of my favorites and my husband, who generally isn't a fan the seasonal tunes, enjoys it as well.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
White Christmas by Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby has always been my go-to for Christmas music. So much so that I refer to him as "Bing-Bing-the-Christmas-King". One listen to his glorious voice and my childhood memories of the holiday season come flooding back!
Every month we bring you our personal favorites, but the conversation doesn’t need to stop there! We would love to hear about the items you have been obsessed with this month (from fashion to food and books to beauty) in the comments section below. Haven’t gotten enough of our recommendations? There is more to explore in our Favorites, from Amazon Essentials to additional monthly round-ups.
xoL&M
