Why Not Take Advice from 10 Chic Ones On Getting Through the Depths of Winter
A shopping guide to finding joy through adversity [i.e. winter].
It’s a simple premise—how do we find the actual and proverbial light in the darkest months of winter? All of those memes about how January was a tough year but we made it are just too real. The days are slowly getting longer, but we’re hardly out of the woods. You can meditate, hit up your nearest Infrared sauna, make every brunch three hours minimum, even book a sunny vacation, but sometimes a little retail therapy is just what you need to pull you out of your vitamin-D deprived doldrums. It’s just psychology. For instance! I got a super cozy new rug from The Citizenry that feels like a warm blanket under-foot and when the sun actually shines it makes my living room basically a cloud. In that spirit, I asked ten chic ones what they’ve bought from within the realms of fashion, beauty, and home that has sparked joy for them—and maybe will for you, too. Why not?
Tiffany Thompson, founder, Duett Interiors
Thompson is a powerhouse interior designer who shares her Portland home renovation and her killer cooking skills on Insta. Those who follow her trust her taste intrinsically for good reason. I’ve also interviewed her for many pieces (including this one!) because I also trust her taste intrinsically.
Pick: “We all know that winter, in most parts of the country is dark and cold and you almost want to stay indoors and cozy up every chance you get. Well I’ve been channeling my inner mob wives, not in clothing but in an Aspen ski resort kind of way. I recently purchased this chocolate faux fur throw for my bedroom. When I say, this makes you feel like a bear hibernating, I mean it. It’s so heavy, almost like a weighed blanket and the faux fur is incredibly soft. It’s been my favorite thing I’ve purchased for my home this season. So much that I purchased another one for our guests. Splurge on the 80” x 96” size, you won’t regret it.”
Every now and then someone with a truly unique aesthetic comes into the social media mix. Ricci’s minimal yet feminine looks, often shot in her minimal yet feminine apartment, leverage emerging designers and unexpected pieces in a way that make you want to go shopping immediately.
Pick: “I’ve been collecting stainless accents for my home lately, but I particularly love how this one also provides a warm glow in the evening. It’s been difficult finding art I like for my walls that align with my home and my budget, this piece is such a great alternative.”
I first came across Lilly on TikTok and she became instantly memorable because she makes getting dressed just seem so fun. Her mix of preppy, feminine, vintage and sleek pieces is singular, but it’s that joyful energy that makes her such a good follow.
Pick: “This scalp cleanser is next level! I didn't realize how important it is to scrub your scalp for healthy hair and this makes your hair buttery soft! Everyone needs in their shower this winter!”
Jalil Johnson, Consider Yourself Cultured
I first bonded with Jalil in DMs over his spot-on vintage options for The Row comb necklace. This quick interaction points to his incredible eye for detail and historical design, which he shares via looks on Insta and Substack, that run the gamut from Nantucket chic to ladies-who-lunch and The Row runway. He also maintains a full time editor role.
Pick: “Ever since I missed out on The Row boat shoes at the sample sale last year, I have been contemplating this silhouette. When I unexpectedly discovered the GH Bass Hampton boat shoe, it was a happy surprise. These shoes bring me joy because it is a new silhouette for me to play with in my wardrobe, and it feels a tad fresher than your typical loafer.”
If you’re noticing my affinity for people who know and love vintage, you’re onto something. Harling shops some of the best vintage finds at incredible prices, which she mixes with other unique jewelry and rtw pieces—plus she now has a very cute baby to post in little outfits too.
Pick: “I've been hunting for the perfect 100% cotton, form-fitting long sleeved crew neck tee (weirdly hard to find!) and recently discovered this one from COS. I just placed an order and I'm crossing my fingers that it lives up to expectations.”
Alyssa Kapito, founder Alyssa Kapito Interiors and Gallerie
Alyssa’s perfectly appointed designs meld old with new in a minimalist dream scape and are perfect saves for inspiration. But unless you were in the market to hire her firm, her work may have felt a bit out of reach—until she recently unveiled a devastatingly chic collection of vases in collaboration with Venetian glassware company Laguna~B. She also sells select vintage items that will instantly hit your wish list.
Pick: “I’m obsessed with the Officine Universelle Buly lip balm to bring some cheer to the cold dry days of winter. They are just so beautiful and elevated and you can have them monogrammed. It’s the ultimate elevated chapstick!”
Bart Kooi, founder Cabmate (Insta and Substack)
Cabmate has become the poster child for a certain ‘90s obsessed, minimal-loving, neutral-shade aficionado who points to Gwyneth in A Perfect Murder, CBK, certain supers (Christy for sure) and any legion of aughts-era celebrities who really brought it in their airport looks (i.e me, it’s me). Kooi has recently brought this aesthetic to an A+ shopping Substack.
Pick: “In winter, you’ll most certainly find me in a simple look: wide pants in navy or black, an oversized overcoat, white Adidas sneakers, my Cartier Tank, a Cabmate cap, and most important, a cashmere crewneck sweater in a neutral shade. This gender-neutral, one-size-fits-all crewneck from Extreme Cashmere is a staple piece for those seeking comfort in style.
There’s something very special about being close friends with a beauty guru. Getting every question about lasers and hair oils answered via text must have some kind of business idea in it, but as for now it just makes me #blessed. Carly is also a beautiful mama and is full of makeup tips and honest reviews for anyone that is lucky enough to follow her.
Pick: “I recently got the Higher Dose mat and it’s a game-changer. I’ve been lying on it when I need a break from the computer and it just helps calm me instantly. You can also lay it on your chair at work or home, as it’s meant to rejuvenate you. That combined with drinking my tea in the sunshine at my French kitchenette table makes me so happy all winter!”
Higher Dose Mat [Ed note: I also have and am obsessed]
You’ve almost certainly come across Augusta’s work—possibly in the absolutely stunning studio for bridal designer Danielle Frankel that she designed, which is pinned on every Pinterest board worth saving. As you might have noticed, I have an inkling that people who can design a room well, have good taste in just about everything.
Pick: “I recently purchased this tea set from Match Pewter. While I am usually an iced coffee drinker, during these long winter days, I have found much more joy in a cup of hot tea. I love Match Pewter’s ability to feel elegant and very much inspired by history, however, with a casual and approachable tone. There is no polishing of silver over here!”
Match cup and saucer and tea pot
Sasha is my editor at Eyeswoon, so her taste in interiors is obvious, but she also shares so many beautiful makeup and skincare products as well as standout dresses on her feed—often highlighting her Aussie compatriots. She’s a steady source of beauty and just good vibes.
Pick: “I saw this green version of the viral Toteme coat by Mango on Liv Perez and bought it immediately. I love the cozy textural feel and moody hue. Def brightening my winter gloom.”