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RAG + BONE JEANS // DETANGLER // EVERGREEN POTPOURRI // RUNNING TEE // DAPHINE EARRINGS // LIP TREATMENT // INEXPENSIVE GUA SHA TOOL
A few things I’m absolutely loving right now:
+Rothy’s Clogs — I can’t stop wearing or talking about these. My daughter was just wearing them around the house this morning and she said, “I get what you mean, these do kind of massage your feet.” So comfortable.
+Utz Malt Vinegar Chips — just the best. These tie with the Siete Serrano and Vinegar chips. If you are a vinegar head, especially one from the Mid-Atlantic, these are for you.
+La Double J Herald Scarf. Somehow goes with everything in my closet — black, taupe, brown. The pop of pink is so fun, too! Super warm and soft — I’ve been wearing daily.
+A Very Nancy Meyers Christmas playlist on Spotify. Self explanatory.
+Rag + Bone Sofie Jeans (seen below). I’ve written a lot about these lately but they are my current favorite pair of jeans. So flattering and comfortable, and I love the way they look with a slightly pointed boot/bootie. I’m in that phase of denim obsession where I have to actively deter myself from wearing them everyday.
+Lolavie Conditioner and Glossing Detangler. Candidly, I tried the detangler over the summer and was underwhelmed by it at the time, but I’ve now been using multiple Lolavie products for the past few weeks and am totally blown away by the conditioner and detangler in particular. I don’t know if maybe my hair is drier now or just responding differently, or if using the entire system helps, but WOW. My hair feels so silky and glossy! I’m obsessed.
+Evergreen Potpourri — my MIL gifted me this when we hosted Thanksgiving, and we put it out into a decorative bowl in the front living room. It smells incredible and looks festive — and you don’t need to be burning a candle all the time to achieve it! I love to burn candles in the evening but I will say there’s something luxe about walking through a room in the middle of the day and catching an unexpected whiff of Christmas magic. The other holiday scents I’m loving: Linnea’s Noel (burning in our family room) and Linnea’s Forest Fir (burning in our living room).
+Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pads. Have I been living under a rock?! THESE ARE INCREDIBLE. You must try them. I swear I had new skin in a few minutes. I was so excited I made Landon try it the very night I first used them! I’m so passionate about this, I want to send some to a Magpie reader — just drop a comment and I’ll randomly pick a winner to send some of these and maybe a few other beauty goodies!
+Cranberry French 75s and Mr. Magpie’s Egg Nog. I was so inspired by Katie posting about these (the recipe she used is here) that I literally drove straight to the store that very afternoon to buy the required provisions. So festive and fun. (Ed. note: I would personally advise rounding down in the recommended measurement of cranberry simple syrup in the recipe — I would prefer something closer to 1/2 oz so it’s a tad less sweet!). And we’ve been dipping into Mr. Magpie’s egg nog, which we’ve been aging for several weeks now! His recipe here. We’ve been enjoying both of these out of my favorite coupes.
+My New Balance running vest and Tracksmith running tees. I was just talking with a girlfriend this morning about running in cold weather, and I passed on advice another runner gave to me: it’s about minimizing the amount of skin exposed and keeping your core warm. I wear a hat, earmuffs, neckwarmer, socks, gloves. And I really think a breathable vest helps keep heat in without suffocating you. I have an old NB running vest they no longer make (only avail in one size here) that I wish they’d bring back. In general, every single NB running item I’ve ever purchased has lasted forever and been my favorite in its respective category. I love their heat tech line, and wish they’d come out with more models more consistently! It is SO GOOD. For this reason, I just ordered this half-zip with the same technology as the vest. I would also consider Lululemon’s vest if you’re in the market and can’t find the NB in your size — I like that it’s specifically designed for running, which has its own requirements (needs to be breathable, water-resistant, and insulating, with cleverly positioned pockets; also has to be fairly fitted and not add much bulk). I also love the Tracksmith Brighton tees. They are thin and stretchy but insulate beautifully — and they aren’t itchy despite the merino wool! Good running gear, and stuff that works in the weather, makes the run so much more pleasant. On the running front, I can’t yet vouch for these because I’ve not yet thoroughly tested but I am over the moon — Bose is sending me a set of their open earbuds. This was crazy timing as I was just complaining to Mr. Magpie that my old running headphones died, and I’ve been using my AirPods for awhile and now only one AirPod charges well, so half of my runs, I’m listening to music in only one ear. He was doing research and said the open earbuds are getting a lot of praise because they make running safer (you can hear cars, bikes, etc), and people love the cuff style fit. I cannot wait! Will report back.
+Chef’s Steps 24 Layer Lasagna. Mr. Magpie made this over the weekend and OMG. I’m ruined for all lasagnas. We were speaking in exclamation points about it all evening! Absolutely delicious. Side note: I have had so many people comment on my holiday kitchen towels while in my home. My children were also SO excited when I first pulled them out after Thanksgiving. They are Weezie and such a fun way to extend the holiday decor to the kitchen. The exact trio set I ordered is sadly sold out, but you can still get the wreaths (seen below) here.
+Daphine Fran Earrings(seen below, alongside the La Double J scarf!). I’ve been reaching for these chunky but lightweight gold earrings a ton lately, especially for daytime wear. They look perfect — slightly modern / trendy — against a chunky knit or a slim turtleneck. I love the look, and they don’t weigh down the lobe.
+Dear Anabelle Gift Tags. My children and I spent a good chunk of Sunday afternoon wrapping gifts and I am absolutely smitten with these tags. The paper is thick and luxe, and the tag itself uses a combo of thermography and foil in the cheeriest red script. They are so special and instantly elevate the gift.
+Chip City Cookie Butter Cookie. (You can order them via GoldBelly here!) I stopped into the Bethesda Row Chip City on a total whim as I happened to be parked there and the cookie butter one is OUT of bounds. Mr. Magpie had some buddies over to play poker on Friday, and the second photo below was my sidecar while watching Netflix holiday movies in bed upstairs: glass of champagne and a Chip City sampler.
+Sharpie 0.4mm Felt Tip Pens. Just got a fresh bouquet of these and they are sparking serious joy.
+The Outset Lip Oasis Treatment. These must have gone viral because they are now sold out EVERYWHERE, but you should put yourself on the notification list. This is definitely the best lip hydration product I’ve ever used. I had been really like the YSE lip mask but the Outset stuff lasts a lot longer / I don’t feel the constant need to reapply.
Not (yet) a favorite thing, but something on my radar at the moment — gadgets for skin. Who uses them, and what do you think? Nellie Diamond of porcelain, ageless skin was recently asked for her skin tips and she said: if you’re in NYC, go to my dermatologist; if you’re anywhere else, a red light mask. I’ve actually had a red light mask (mine is this brand) charging in my office and have not yet tried it, which I know is sinful. I keep finding it challenging to work into my routine — when do I use it? I feel like the best time would be in the morning, after cleansing and moisturizing, before makeup, but that window is SO short for me on schooldays. And then if I wait until after I work out, I’m always chomping at the bit to get to my desk and want to skip this step. Who uses these and how and when do you use? How often?! Help!
While we’re here, I’ve also been eyeing a few other technologies/gadgets for the skin. The first is the Newa, which reportedly helps with collagen production, and the second is the ZIIP, which helps with facial lifting/sculpting. Has anyone used any of these? Do you use multiple or does one override/obsolete the others? It seems like all three do different things. Help!
Last little gadget I did order and can’t wait to test — an inexpensuve gua sha tool. Do these work or was I “got” by a TikTok ad? Haha. Or are there other tools you love?
P.S. The meaning of life, probably.
P.P.S. Widening the margins in my life. Ways I’ve brought this to bear this month: saying no to three holiday events; carving out time to exercise; and purposefully underscheduling us last weekend so we could trim the tree and wrap gifts without feeling time boxed. So glad we did that. It was such a restful and cozy weekend.
P.P.P.S. If your kid is sick this week and you are losing your mind, just remember: you are where you need to be, mama.
So many great favorites here. I’ve seen multiple people praise those pads from Dr. Gross. I would love to try them too. I love a good recipe recommendation. Thanks
Woohoo!
Can’t wait to play the Nancy Meyers playlist at a party this week. Just need to add a spacious yet cozy kitchen and white fluffy sofas! 🙂
Perfect holiday party music!!
You had me at Nancy Meyers playlist and new felt tip pens – love!
You had me at Nancy Meyers playlist and new felt tip pens!
It’s the little things!
Ooohh French 75s are my fave, love the idea of the cranberry version! XO
Hope you enjoy 🙂
I would die to try a red light mask! I’m visiting my brother and SIL in January and she has one, and I really want to try hers. Happy holidays, Jen!
Yes!! Let me know if you borrow. I’ll report back after a few weeks of use!
I love the Nancy Myers playlist!! And the ones you created personally
Thank you! xx
The Cranberry French 75 sounds delicious! I’ve been on a cranberry kick since Thanksgiving.
Me too! Hope you love it!
That cocktail looks so fun and festive!! Can’t wait to try!
Yay! Cheers, friend!
You are my absolute favorite blogger!!! I wish we were neighbors and I know I’d love your mom! I’m a math teacher!!
That is so kind – thank you so much!! xx
Sick kid here, too! Needed the reminder. ❤️
I’ve been wanting to try the peel pads — they were actually on my list for the Sephora sale, but I ended up taking them out of my cart and now I’m mad at myself! And a cranberry french 75 sounds like a dream.
Solidarity on the sick kid front!! Hang in there. Tis the season…
Also a little note that right now, Sephora is running a very under-promoted deal where they offer 20% off one order if you’re signed in. You can still get the pads on sale!
xx
Would love to try the Dr Gross pads..l heard about them but never got around to check them out. Bought the Nuface mini a couple years ago but couldn’t figure out a regular time in my schedule to do it. Would love to hear from others how to use it regularly!
I fear I’m going to fall into the same scheduling issue as you did with the Nuface…I like the Magpie reader suggestion of doing it first thing in the morning, when you’ve hit snooze / before you’re out of bed.
Also obsessed with the DDG pads. The best!
I must have been living under a rock! xx
That sidecar of champagne and cookies to enjoy with a Christmas movie is what dreams are made of!
It was so delightful 🙂
Between the eggnog and the lasagna my mouth is watering!
I haven’t tried those Dr. Dennis Gross pads but would love to. The products of his that I have tried I’ve found very effective!
I asked for a redlight mask for Christmas – crossing my fingers I get it! If not I’m pretty positive I’ll grab it for myself, I’m just so curious!
Please share your notes/thoughts if or when you do get the mask! xx
I’m intrigued by the DDG Peel Pads! I’ve tried similar products from other brands and just wasn’t wowed– but I would love to, as you say, “see new skin”!
Yay!!
I’ve only had it for a few days, but I splurged for Black Friday on the La Luer Mira device – it has the currents like Ziip, but also blue, green and red LEDs too. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Oo hadn’t even heard of this! Thanks!
many thoughts!
i just purchased a red light therapy mask (omnilux men’s) after much research – have been wearing it for about a week, so it’s too early to see results, but i’m hopeful! i struggle with the timing, too, though. allegedly, you’re supposed to avoid actives beforehand, which makes wearing it at night a challenge… i’ve been applying my usual rotation of skincare/actives some nights/etc. after my post-workout shower around 6:30pm, then doing the red light around 9/9:30pm and hoping that’s a sufficient amount of buffer time? completely agree that it’s a bit of a mental maze re: timing, though.
re: your post yesterday – a friend in the DC area hired a makeup artist to do a mini makeup class with her + another girlfriend & i thought it was a genius idea. would be so fun to do with a small group of friends or as part of a girl’s weekend. oooor a DMV magpie event (?!). despite the errant tiktok rec or experiment in application, i feel like we all apply makeup the same way we learned years and years ago, no? definitely could use a refresh myself!
lastly – what size do you take in the brighton long sleeve? i’m due to replace some of my lulu swiftly long sleeves (my winter running base layer stalwarts) but have heard that tracksmith runs small. one size up? or do you take your normal size? ready to finally pull the trigger after eying the brand for years!
Hi! Love the idea of a girls night with a professional makeup application instruction component! Or like a facialist comes and explains things?! And does mini treatments? That would be so epic.
For the Tracksmith, I take my true size in the tops and go UP a size in all bottoms — the bottoms run so tiny and narrow! — but I find the tops run truer to size. And the Brighton in particular is super stretchy.
xx
So kind of you to want to gift some DDG peel pads! Thank you for the reminder about the Nancy Meyers xmas Spotify playlist, putting it on right now :))
Yay!! Listening right now too!
Saw you mention the DG pads on I G yesterday and immediately had to compare to my fave acid, the Paula’s Choice BHA. Intrigued by the two step process of the DG and would love to try!
Ooh yes i’ve heard good things about that brand too!
I’ve been using the Dr. Gross peel pads for years and they are amazing. I use the extra strength ones and only 1-3 times a week and less in the summer so find the large box lasts quite a while. They are also on my Black Friday restock list every year. I also am a fan of the red light mask but like other people have said, consistency is key. It gives a subtle change, nothing dramatic. If you have teens with acne in the house they can share it too on the blue light setting. I also got the Dr Gross red light panel originally to use on my neck but have been using it mostly on the 14 min setting for when my knee hurts from running or other aches and pains. It really works if I do that a couple of times in a day when sore. (Aside- looking into estrogen cream for the neck.) Nuface is amazing but you have to use almost every day. My latest beauty device is the Nira pro laser- I started using around my eyes when I noticed some hooding with age and under eye hollowing (which I now think came from using Revitalash for my eyelashes. The prost- ingredient has this side effect!!). These devices are not inexpensive but neither are dermatologist/medispa treatments (which I haven’t done yet), which is how I justify them.
Fascinating! Thanks so much for this detailed review. I’m intrigued by the Nira pro laser — !! This is a whole new world. Thanks for putting these items on my radar!
xx
Immediately turned on the Nancy Meyers playlist – right up my alley, thank you!! I bought eggnog ingredients yesterday (I prefer a cooked version) now I just need to find time to mix it up. And French 75 is one of my favorite cocktails! I may buy that potpourri for my SIL for hosting Christmas…and one for me. Candles make me nervous, I’m worried I’ll forget to blow it out (plus trying to stay away from synthetic fragrance) so this may be a great alternative. Please put my name in the hat for the alpha beta pads!
Yay on all fronts! Listening to the same playlist as I type!
Would love to try the DG peel pads. (OMG the autocorrect really wanted me to write pee pads. Too many small pets and small humans in my home.)
LOL. I feel this! Thanks Dawn 🙂
Excuse me, tell us more about ChefSteps! I consider myself and my husband to be avid fans and cooks of food (I literally stared down Jonathan Waxman over a 90 minute meal last week at his newest SF establishment) and I’ve never heard of this site! How does it compare to Milk Street or Serious Eats?
I’m going to have Mr. Magpie weigh in but he discovered this site recently and has been FLOORED by the detail-orientedness of the recipes. He now routinely crosschecks between a couple of different sources, including Serious Eats and Chef Steps and his cookbook arsenal. We were totally and completely wowed by this particular recipe but he’s been very hot on the things he’s tried from there. I think it seems to me more in the weeds / more cheffy / less novice cook. Sometimes we notice the Serious Eats recipes are now dumbing things down a bit. By contrast, the Chef Steps had us refry the lasagna in hot oil studded with fennel seeds. Such an interesting touch and SO delicious. Just funky little chef twists!
xx
Following up on this note – I did chat with Landon and he agrees. The Chefsteps page is “cheffier” and a little more in the weeds / less geared towards a novice or amateur home cook. FYI!
100% co-sign on vests for winter running! I only break out a jacket if it’s sub-30 degrees or it’s really windy. I think newbies who are afraid of being too cold overcompensate sometimes, not realizing that all those extra layers will only make you sweat more and the sweat will chill you very quickly. A tight-fitting warm long-sleeve, vest, and warm gloves will warm your core as you said without making your armpits/arms too hot. I agree that New Balance gear is great, and I will also recommend Saucony and Craft. Craft is an XC skiing brand so they really know warmth + aerobic activity.
Ooo I hadn’t even heard of Craft. Will look into this. And I completely agree on the risk of overlayering and also on the risk of wearing things that aren’t ventilated / breathable enough. Once you get going, it becomes SO UNPLEASANT to sweat through your clothes and then start to freeze because the sweat chills. Yuck!
xx
One trick I’ve used for the face pads is cutting them either in half or quarters to make them last longer. Plus, if I use a full face pad I just feel like it’s too much/too intense? Just a thought. They can get expensive, so this helps a box last a longggg time.
Great idea. Maybe I’ll split mine with my husband if he decides to persist in this. How often do you use each week? 3x?
Been eyeing the red light mask! And have recently been intrigued with Dr. Gross pads. Love all your recs!!
Thank you!! I just tried the red light mask for the first time this morning. Will report back after I’ve used for a few weeks! xx
I don’t consider myself dull, but my skin is. Unfortunately! I would love to give Dr Gross pads a try. Hoping to sparkle and shine over the Holidays! 🙂
Haha!! I feel this sentiment!
Echoing previous comments, consistency is key with red light. I use my red light before bed, with a clean face and before any product. Curious to hear about other face gadgets and favorite products.
As a complete aside, very curious to learn more about your game/puzzle table. Is it tucked away in a corner of your living room? How big? I love the idea of a cozy spot tucked away for games and such.
Hi! Thanks for the input on red light masks. I just used it this morning and realized it’s not onerous? Mine suggests 10 min/day. I just used it while checking emails!
Yes, we have a small (maybe 42″, I have to check) round game table in the corner of our living room. We had told our interior designer that we like to play board games, do puzzles, and enjoy coffee in that room, and she dreamt it all up!
xx
I have been using the Dennis gross red light mask for several years now, and it absolutely works. I’m 53 and I’ve never done anything else to my face (Botox, filler, don’t even get facials, honestly) and I’m very happy with my skin. I’m religious about it, but it’s only 3 minutes once a day! I am a huge fan.
This is VERY compelling! TY!
Love this list! And most definitely hear for the comments about face gadgets… I have been intrigued for some time but can’t quite believe the hype!
Right?! I’m suspicious but that comment by Nellie about the red light masks (and all the positive feedback in this comments section…) is nudging me towards using that mask and at least testing one or two of the others?! It just feels like a lot to have multiple devices to use each week on top of my skincare routine…but maybe I’m just at that time in my life where that investment matters!
xx
So curious to try the
Dr. Gross pads as I’ve never tried the brand but have heard/read such great reviews of their products. Thanks for all your wonderful recs!
Yay! Will share a winner tomorrow! xx
The Dr. Gross pads are really good, but I have not bought any in quite some time. Thanks for the reminder. I went to a wedding where French 75 was one of the signature drinks during cocktail hour. They are so good. Going to add the Fran earrings to my Christmas list. I have also been wondering about face gadgets and read through all of the comments. Intrigued, but somewhat skeptical about their claims.
Yes, me too on the gadgets…too good to be true? The pattern that’s emerging to me from Magpie comments here is that the red light mask is worth it. The others maybe not so much.
xx
Would love to try Dr Dennis Gross pads.
My aging skin needs help.
Thank you for the consideration.
And, keep up the great writing.
Thank you, Jody!! xx
I have been reading your blog for years. Always the highlight of my mornings. You have the best recs!!
Thank you so much for your loyal readership, friend :).
I’ve been wanting to try the DDG peel pads! Also, with the red light mask I read this past week that it should be used on bare, clean skin- so maybe try it before applying moisturizer for the best results? Looking forward to hearing about your experience and results.
Thanks for this note!! I feel like I’m hearing that a lot – clean, dry skin – but the guide book that came with the mask says you can use a serum and eye cream beneath for better results? Will test both ways!
xx
Dr Dennis Gross I would be down to try this especially with mature skin that I am getting use to having. 🙂 Thanks Jenn for a fun plug-in with the Magpie community. Happy holidays
Yay!! Happy holidays!
Okay, I feel justified! I’ve been using the Dr Dennis Gross pads since highschool, and I’ve been so torn through the years I followed you, did I need to try the FAB ones? The MI6 ones? Was I a total square?!?! Nope, I was just lucky enough to have hit the hole in one!
YEP. I am seeing the light!! You’ve been onto something for years now. How often do you use?
xx
I have a red light mask and I keep it by my bedside. I put it on immediately when my alarm goes off in the morning (when I would usually be hitting the snooze). I’ve found that it’s a great way to wake up. I do this as many days as but it ends up being about 5 days per week – sometimes I don’t have the time for whatever reason. I love it!
Oooh, I like this timing!! Good idea to bake it into a period when you’re already half-asleep!
Thank you for sharing all of your favorites! I’m adding that lasagna recipe and the French 75 to the holiday menu for sure! I’d love to try the Dr Gross Alpha Beta pads – I’ve been searching and trying so many products like this that I haven’t loved. Happy Holidays!
Yay! Happy holidays!
Excited to read what you find out about red light devices! I agree with Christina – when I am consistent with the NuFace I notice a big difference, specifically around my jawline.
Intriguing! Do you think the NuFace replaces one of the gadgets I mentioned or does something different?
xx
Love the DG Peel pads! I actually use my red light mask after the peel pads then round out withmy nightly skincare routine. I find wearing the mask while closing up the house is an efficient use of time (that’s the goal these days!).
Oo love this thought!
So many great recommendations in this post. I have tried a few of Dr. Dennis Gross’s other products too and loved them!
Yay!!
Trying the drink recipes..thanks. Fingers crossed on the beauty gifts being sent to one lucky follower.
You’ve been entered, Nancy! Let me know what you think about the cocktails!
Cannot wait to try the cranberry French 75!
Woohoo! I should have mentioned — and will update the post now to reflect this — but I think you can go a little lighter on the simple syrup than is recommended in the recipe. I think I’d prefer 1/2 oz simple syrup. Just FYI!
I respect your commitment to running in the cold! I used to in my early twenties, but wouldn’t even consider it now. I’m definitely more of a walker. I would love to try some beauty devices, but I know I wouldn’t use them with any consistency whatsoever (maybe when my kids are older). Intrigued by Jen’s haircare line..I’m also experiencing major dryness and knotted hair this time of year.
I know, it’s all about finding a routine / place in your schedule to commit to those gadgets…I have a hard enough time doing my full makeup most days! xx
I ordered the inexpensive face tech tool that Lemon Stripes raved about on her blog. It’s from Amazon and has good reviews! It has different lights, including red light, and I typically do the purple for lymphatic drainage, the blue for calming my sensitive skin, and the red for anti-aging. The device has heat and a vibrating factor and each color session is 5 minutes long. I’m usually *so bad* about being consistent with skin care, and so I’m *very surprised* with myself that I actually have done this routine (15 minutes!!!) daily. I’ve actually noticed results – especially my neck being less gobbly and certainly more defined. My skin seems to be happier too, although I have been working on a consistent hydrating product routine. I keep the device next to the couch in our living room and will use it at night after babies are in bed or in the morning before babies are awake. Consistency is so hard to actually stick to, but it’s hard to argue with skipping something when I’m seeing results so that has been a good motivator for me to keep it up!
Oo hadn’t even heard about this Amazon gadget! Thanks for the rec – adding to my list for research!
Always look forward to reading your blog and you genuine recommendations! Would love to be in the running for the Dennis Gross pads!!
Yay!! Thank you Diana!
I have ordered a red light mask for myself for Christmas. My trusted skincare gru suggested this one from DMH Aesthetics. She recommends using for 20 minutes a day to start…. will report back after Christmas once I start using it. BTW I have been wanting to try the Dennis Gross Pads going to order some now. Thanks.
Yes please report back on the red light mask! I started using mine today. Will be curious to compare notes after a few weeks of use!
xx
Ooh I’ve been really wanting to try a red light mask. Please report back! In the meantime, I’ve had the NuFace for a few years and do find that it works really well when I am consistent. I went through a period of not trying new skincare from pregnancy and postpartum, but am fully back into it and wanting to update/refine my routine. The Dennis Gross pads sound delightful!
Oh interesting! Do you think the NuFace competes with the gadgets I’ve mentioned, or does it do something else?
xx