My tips for staying stylish, warm & sane this holiday

Hi friend,

It's official—the temperatures have dropped, the days are shorter, and all I want to do is curl up under a blanket with a warm drink (I make a mean caramel latte—double shot of espresso, oat milk, caramel sauce). It's easy to get caught up in the chaos of the holiday season, but it's so important to slow down and prioritize our well-being. Anyone else feel me? 🙋🏽‍♀️

This time of year was typically the busiest for me, albeit for different reasons. As a reporter and anchor, I was either out in the actual snowstorm or on the desk doing wall-to-wall coverage of the conditions, school closings etc. I rarely got to cozy up and take in the snow from home, so I’m excited to stay inside, stay present, and soak up time with my loved ones.

And savoring those moments also means finding ways to relax and unwind even when we're stuck inside. You know what’s tough, though? Keeping kids entertained. This is where I splurge on toys that Bella can play with indoors. My best purchase this year was this play kitchen, which she’s obsessed with—seriously, it keeps her busy for hours! We also read a lot more these days, snuggled up on the couch in our PJs with a stack of her favorite books (including bilingual books like this one and this one; gotta start ‘em young).

As much as I love hunkering down at home, there are obviously times I have to venture into the elements. And since DC winters can be brutal (and unpredictable), I've been perfecting my layering game. My go-to strategy is:

• Start with a warm base layer, like a thermal top and leggings.

• Add a cozy sweater or fleece. 

• On top of that, a puffer jacket or wool coat. 

• Y’all know I love accessories, so I also need a warm hat, scarf, and gloves when I’m braving these streets.

This weather can be savage on your skin, too. I've switched to a richer moisturizer and added a hydrating serum to my skincare routine. I'm also loving sleeping masks for an extra boost of moisture overnight. 

Staying healthy during the holidays can be another challenge (case in point: I recently lost my voice), but it's so necessary! I'm actively working on this by getting enough sleep, staying active, and managing my stress. I'm also taking time for myself, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. Whether it's taking a bath, reading a good book (see below!), or sipping my caramel latte in silence, those pockets of solitude help me stay grounded and recharge my social battery. Lately, Anni Vanderbeek is my inspo for all things self-care. She has a great series called Unnecessary Necessities where she shares things you don't really need but are amazing for showing yourself some extra love.

Okay, your turn: what are your favorite ways to stay cozy, healthy, and entertained during the winter months? Do you have any special family traditions or winter rituals? Share your thoughts in the comments, or in my DMs.

Sending you warm, wonderful winter vibes! ❄️

More news you can use

• “They did it, so clearly it can be done.” Mona and I got real about our career pivots on the pod this year, and it got such an incredible response. If you’re considering your own big moves in 2025, get on the waitlist for my Pivot Playbook—I’ll be sharing my unfiltered insights and step-by-step process for making the leap.

• I love following Sam Schlageter (@yourdcbestie) for local events year-round, but especially this holiday season. So many fun things to do!

• Just consider me your latte plug: here are some great coffee shops if you’re in the DMV area for the holidays!

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Until Next Time, 

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