Lily McNeal Essly Reverse Jersey Coat
Even though I know Lily McNeal designer Anna Barthelme, my opinion of her line remains unbiased and never swayed by my admiration for her super-cool personality. I fell in love with the line long before I had the pleasure of getting to know her. The collection of beautiful knits includes styles for every season and the wintery cardigans are among my favorites. Whether you’re battling the snow and chilly temps in Tahoe, Steamboat, the Midwest or the East Coast, cozy cardigans such as this are essential for warmth (with an ample dose of style, of course). I love the Essly Reverse Jersey Coat because of the extra long sleeves, toggle-closure high neck, belted waist and luxe blend of wool, silk and cashmere. buy it here.photo courtesy of Lily Mcneal
Finding a good hair stylist can be hit or miss, even in a city overflowing with talent. As a beauty writer I’ve done countless salon and stylist reviews (my friends and family can attest to drastic hair color changes). I was perfectly happy bouncing from stylist to stylist, all in the name of bringing my readers the best of the best. But lately I’ve been turning down reviews because Rebecca Bacon has been cutting and coloring my hair to absolute perfection. Known for doing great layers and piece-y cuts, Rebecca’s talents are perfectly suited to my long, thick locks. I recently went in for my pre-holiday hair cut and highly recommend that if you’re in the LA area you do the same. Book an appointment at Piero Hair Salon on Main Street in Santa Monica. 
My friend Vivian at Tricot Showroom introduced me to the line Juliana Jabour. And I wasn’t the least bit surprised when my favorite boutiques started picking up the line. The Brazilian designer is a girl after my own heart, designing pieces that are ultra-comfortable with a laid-back yet incredibly stylish vibe. Take this bell sleeve top for instance. The drape of the fabric is beautiful and the silhouette is comfortable and flattering. The bell sleeves take it from basic to highly fashionable. A thick quilted collar with a keyhole and pleating are subtle details that make this comfy top a great alternative to a standard knit tee. It’s casually chic with jeans but could easily be dressed up with black trousers and a striking bracelet. (Try the yellow or rose gold Feather Bracelet from Jib & Genoa.) I have built my wardrobe around comfortable, casual pieces such as this. Buy it here and enjoy 20% off until Dec. 16 by entering the code “happyholidays” at checkout.
I know it’s late in the game to be contemplating holiday party planning, as the month of Dec is pretty much half over. But this fantastic little black dress from Anzevino & Florence is making me wish I had a holiday soirée on the agenda. The Mary Poppins Dress was designed for a special collection for the Andy Warhol Museum. I adore the voluminous gathered skirt and the v-neck empire waist gives the silhouette a super-flattering look. It’s a classic black dress with contemporary styling that begs to be noticed. buy it here
This beautiful bag (in dark chocolate leather) made its way across the pond and arrived on my doorstep yesterday. A quick switch of handbag essentials (lip balms, wallet, hand cream, Benefit Justine Case, etc.) was promptly made so I could start toting this stylish beauty around town. I’ve even been admiring it from afar as it sits on a table, patiently waiting for its next excursion. Shown here in a vibrant lavender hue, the Stadium Bag is indeed a fantastic satchel. Shop Jocasi’s fab wares and enjoy free shipping via Royal Mail until 12/20. photo courtesy of Jocasi
Though it’s 75 and sunny today in SoCal, my skin has already changed into its dry (and sometimes dull) winter state. Time to switch to thicker creams and special treatments to restore radiance and moisture. Parisian brand Darphin has been on my must-try list for a while now, after receiving a glowing review from a close friend. The Aromatic Purifying Balm, dubbed as a “desert island must-have miracle” product, is among my new facial obsessions. Key ingredients include essential oils of tea tree, lavender, sage, geranium and grapefruit, with hazelnut, st. john’s wart and beeswax. Adding a subtle glow to the skin while protecting the natural moisture barrier, this wonder balm is designed for all skin types and works its magic while you’re getting your beauty sleep. buy it 
