This post is kindly sponsored by American Eagle!
Personally, I’m ready for the holidays. My holiday outfits are together, TikTok taught me how to decorate my mantel with garland, and I’m experimenting with a gingerbread latte recipe. At the risk of sounding too corny, there’s just something special about this time of year that never fails to captivate my heart—it’s a season infused with intangible magic, the kind that can’t be replicated or explained.Â
If you're feeling this holiday spirit but haven't quite set your plans in motion—I've got you covered with some practical ways to dive right into the festivities. Here are a few ideas to help you get into the holiday groove.
Embrace the Festive Spirit
The holiday season is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a time to connect with loved ones, show gratitude, and celebrate the joy in our lives. Setting the right mindset and embracing the festive spirit is the foundation for a truly magical holiday season.
Finding the Perfect Holiday Outfits
SLAY bells ring…ARE you LISTENING……?
*crickets*
Alright, tough crowd.
The holidays are a perfect excuse to dress up. Whether you’re attending a formal dinner or having a cozy gathering with friends, choose outfits that make you feel confident and reflect the celebratory mood of the season.
Holiday Fashion Trends
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No matter the decade, there are always certain trends that make a comeback during the holiday season. From metallic accents to cozy fleece, knits, turtlenecks, and fashionable corduroy, these styles are sure to add a festive touch to your wardrobe. To help you tap into the holiday trend, here are some of my top picks from American Eagle.
From 12/5 to 12/9: take an extra 20% off purchases when you use discount code AEASIA (online only)
I’ll Be Home for Christmas: Decorating Your Home for the Holidays
Living in Los Angeles may not bring snow-covered streets and chilly temperatures, but that doesn't mean I can't infuse my home with that cozy, warm ambiance. Here are a few secrets I've discovered to create that snug vibe, even in the City of Angels.
Festive Home Décor Ideas
Adorn your space with twinkling lights, decorative wreaths, and seasonal ornaments that capture the magic of the holidays. Choose a theme or color scheme that resonates with you and create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
I spruced up my living room by decorating my mantel with garland, battery-powered candle lights, and various other festive decorations. The transformation was remarkable, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that filled the space with much-needed holiday cheer. Even without a Christmas tree, the decorative elements on the mantel made a significant impact, adding a touch of magic to the room. It's amazing how a few carefully placed items can make such a huge difference in creating that cozy, festive atmosphere.
Creating a Cozy Ambiance
As the temperatures drop (in LA that means a low of 50ºF lol), create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. Add plush blankets, soft pillows, and scented candles to create a cozy ambiance. Incorporate elements of nature such as pinecones, evergreen branches, or a fragrant cinnamon stick centerpiece to bring the outdoors inside.
Embracing the Holiday Lifestyle
Festive Activities and Traditions
To be completely honest, my family doesn't have any established holiday traditions. We don't have that one thing we do every single year without fail. Instead, we've taken a more spontaneous approach to our holiday celebrations, treating traditions like shuffle on a Spotify playlist.
Whether you’ve had a similar upbringing or not, you can still embrace beloved holiday traditions or create new ones. Take part in activities such as baking cookies, decorating gingerbread houses, or watching classic holiday movies. Engage with loved ones in games, storytelling, or volunteering to spread joy and give back to the community.
Cooking and Baking Delights
Explore the culinary traditions of the season by preparing festive dishes and treats. Experiment with traditional recipes or try your hand at new creations. Personally, I'm currently experimenting with a gingerbread latte recipe. Although I don't typically spend much time in the kitchen, I'm eager to venture into classic holiday recipes, such as a holiday roast or a decadent sticky toffee pudding.
On one memorable Christmas, my Korean sister-in-law delighted us all with a Korean dish called galbi-jjim (갈비찜) - a succulent braised beef short rib dish cooked in a flavorful rich sauce. It truly became the highlight of our holiday feast. Someday, I aspire to master this dish myself. That day is not today. But…someday.Â
In Conclusion: Embrace the Magic of the Season!
Amidst the whirlwind of holiday preparations, take time to pause and reflect on the moments of joy, love, and togetherness that the season brings. Cherish the memories created with family and friends, and appreciate the simple pleasures that make this time of year so magical.
Wishing You a Merry Holiday Season
As the holiday season envelops us in its warmth, may this guide inspire you to embrace the spirit of celebration, spread cheer, and build beautiful memories. Wishing you a merry and joyous holiday season overflowing with love and happiness 🥰