december favorites 🤍

a roundup of some of my most used items the last month, from a pair of jeans to my new favorite shoulder bag to my go-to beauty products.

Hi, hello everyone!

I would like to start off by saying happy new year! I hope everyone had a lovely time ringing in 2024, whether it be drunkenly making out with a beautiful stranger in a horrible dive bar or sitting on the couch in your comfy PJ set with a cup of sleepy tea.

Secondly, I want to apologize for the hiatus (again). My family’s been in town and, as we all know, things can get really hectic during the holidays.

I wanted my first post of the year to be a roundup of some of my favorite things, particularly from December. It’s a basic list, including but not limited to beauty products and apparel, but I thought it’s something I should try to share at the start of each month.

(Also, it’s been a while since I’ve written, so I’m sorry if these words read kind of like shit.)

Just a heads-up, some of these items may be sold out due to its immense popularity and/or high demand, but I hope this list is somewhat insightful into my preferences.

Let’s kick this off!

Acne Studios Padded Bomber Jacket ($950)

I bought this jacket in Singapore during the F1 Grand Prix weekend. It was the last one in store and I was adamant about not purchasing anything because I was trying to shop less. Alas, once I tried this on, it was game over.

Then I saw Emma Chamberlain, Hailey Bieber and Elsa Hosk, along with a slew of other influencers and stylists, wearing it and I felt so vindicated by my purchase. I wore it when I was in New York in December and it was the perfect jacket.

Still Here Cool Jean ($260)

I first heard about this style of jean from Sydney Silverman on TikTok (I highly recommend following her — she uploads great GRWM and haul videos). So when it launched in November, I immediately purchased it despite being in the middle of the dance floor of a birthday party. And I am so glad I did. They are the most flattering and comfortable pair of jeans, and I am obsessed!

Eterne Long Sleeve Baby Tee ($115)

This was originally in my most recent “what’s in my cart” roundup, but I obviously caved and purchased it. Not only is it extremely comfortable, but it is also one of the most versatile tops I own.

Cherry Los Angeles Hat ($80)

I’ve always been a big baseball cap girl. I love adding a slightly tomboy-ish touch to certain looks, especially something quite opposite to balance it out, like a blazer. Cherry Los Angeles has some great accessories, as well as T-shirts and hoodies.

Bottega Veneta Jodie Small Leather Tote Bag ($4,100)

I had my eye on this bag for months before I actually bought it in Japan. The Yen is not as strong at the moment, so it was an opportune time to purchase designer goods. Plus, shopping in Japan is one of the most convenient things because they can do the tax refund on the spot. The sales associate also convinced me by saying there were only two left in this color and size of the black Jodie.

Polo Ralph Lauren Oxford Sport Shirt ($125) 

I love wearing button downs either as shirts or as a light jacket, especially since I saw Elizabeth Debicki wear them when she portrayed Princess Diana in “The Crown.” I bought mine from the Reformation Vintage store but really any men’s Polo Ralph Lauren button-down would work!

Ami Colé Hydrating Lip Treatment Oil ($20)

I’ve been obsessed with a sheer, brown tint on my lips with a touch of gloss. This one is perfect because it gives a nice chocolate hue and shine while hydrating my lips.

Merit The Minimalist Complexion Stick ($38) 

I’ve seen this all over TikTok and I got a sample for free once when I was working at Women’s Wear Daily, but I got the wrong shade (oops). But now that I found my color, I freaking LOVE this. I hate wearing heavy makeup, so this stick is the perfect way to hide any imperfections while still wearing light makeup on a daily basis.

Tower28 BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush ($20)

I am a huge sucker for cream blush (cream anything, really. Not a big fan of powder), especially one that is a clean brand and founded by an Asian woman. (Support smaller businesses!) I have been using this almost everyday for over a year now.

Rhode Peptide Lip Tint in Espresso ($16)

Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment is one of the best lip products I’ve ever tried. It tastes amazing, makes your lips look luscious and is extremely hydrating. So when she released them in tint with different flavors, I hopped on that without hesitation. My favorite is espresso, following the current fad of brown everything.

(This is currently sold out 😩 but let’s hope Mrs. Bieber restocks soon.)

Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Retinol Alternative Serum ($84)

I bought this when I was in Paris in September and my only regret is that I didn’t purchase more. Caudalie in France is WAY cheaper than what they’re being sold for in the States. I’ve been using this every other day during my nighttime routine and I can visibly see the difference in the texture and plumpness my skin.

**Just a heads-up, all links provided above are affiliate links, so in the off-chance any of you purchase anything here, I may or may not be earning a small commission.**