Morgan Halberg – Observer https://observer.com News, data and insight about the powerful forces that shape the world. Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:21:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 168679389 Jet Set: The Hawaii Packing Edit https://observer.com/list/jet-set-hawaii-islands-packing/ Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:21:17 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1604572 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel essentials perfect for any kind of trip. As we enter December, temperatures are steadily dropping for many of us, but don’t let the cold get you down—instead, start planning for your next tropical getaway; the antidote to all your cold-weather holiday woes. I’m still thinking about a recent long weekend in Hawaii (my first time staying on the Big Island), and the trip has me reconsidering my tropical vacation essentials—that is, editing them down to the bare minimum. From a printed pareo and metallic sandals to a raffia clutch and minimalist one-piece, these are the Hawaii resort essentials we’re loving and coveting right now.

Hawaii Essentials

Pucci Printed Cotton-Voile Pareo

I’m of the firm belief that as long as you bring a couple of sarongs and a good white tank on any beach trip, you’re pretty much good to go on the fashion front. If you really want to up the ante, opt for one of Pucci’s iconic printed pareos, made from a lightweight cotton-voile. Tie it around your waist and wear it on the beach, style it as a cover-up dress or dress it up at night.

$430, shop now

Pucci. Pucci

J. Crew Handknotted Raffia Rectangular Clutch

Don’t bother bringing anything aside from a beach tote and some form of a straw or raffia clutch, if you want a slightly dressier bag for evenings. The handle on this handknotted raffia bag gives it extra points.

$128, shop now

J. Crew. J. Crew

Krewe Irene Sunglasses

I’m guilty of almost always throwing an extra pair (or two) of sunglasses into my bag, in addition to the shades I’m already wearing. But if you’re capable of exercising an ounce of packing self-control, keep the accessories minimal—you know you’ll end up wearing the same pair of frames every day. Krewe’s classic black cat-eye sunglasses add a touch of elevated sass to any look.

$295, shop now

Krewe. Krewe

Vitamin A Jenna One Piece in White EcoLux

Always make sure to bring a good one-piece, like this flattering white number, when traveling to a tropical locale—a suit that’s chic and sleek, but also a bit more useful when partaking in any aquatic activities.

$170, shop now

Vitamin A. Vitamin A

Ancient Greek Sandals Desmos

There’s no need to fill up your suitcase with an array of heeled sandals and uncomfortable shoes—instead, stick with a good pair of everyday shoes (Birkenstocks rarely fail) and a pair of dressier, yet still comfy, sandals to wear to dinner or a more elevated lunch. The metallic gold sheen of these slip-ons lends the casual shoe a subtly refined edge.

$275, shop now

Ancient Greek Sandals. Ancient Greek Sandals

Dôen Marianne Organic Cotton Poplin Midi Dress

Crafted from 100 percent cotton-poplin, Dôen’s bright red midi adds a bold pop of color to your island wardrobe. A major plus? The material ensures you’ll stay cool even in the most stifling humidity.

$250, shop now

Dôen. Dôen

Lack of Color The Inca Bucket Hat

Along with an absurd amount of SPF 50, don’t forget to bring a good hat. I’m partial to a packable chapeau that won’t lose its shape in my suitcase, like this chic raffia bucket hat.

$149, shop now

Lack of Color. Lack of Color
]]> 1604572
 Wellness Gifts to Deliver Calm During Holiday Chaos https://observer.com/list/best-wellness-gifts-holiday-guide/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1603034 It’s never a bad time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a little self-care, but it’s especially appreciated during the holidays. Because let’s be honest here—the festive season is bright and merry, but along with all that (perhaps forced) jolliness, it can also be a rather stressful time of year. And that brings us back to all things wellness, because along with the seemingly endless slate of holiday parties and work deadlines, you also need to find the time to pick up a few holiday gifts. Whether you’re looking for a present for your most wellness-obsessed friend who’s always talking about sound baths, crystals and aligning their chakra, or just want to give a stressed-out pal the gift of self-care, you’re in the right place. From Tibetan singing bowls and a sunrise alarm clock to an infrared sauna blanket and a gratitude journal, these are the wellness gifts to shop this holiday season.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

Wellness Gift Ideas for the Holidays

Therabody Theragun Pro Plus

The updated Theragun Pro Plus is a five-in-one gift; it includes deep muscle percussive therapy, near-infrared LED light, vibration, heated percussive and cold therapy, whether they’re looking to reduce inflammation, hasten workout recovery, improve mobility and more.

$649.99, shop now

Therabody Therabody

Bearaby Cotton Weighted Blanket

Sure, a gift card to a massage is nice and all, but what about something cozy that they can use every single day, without even leaving the house? A knit weighted blanket is the comforting and calming throw that they’ll cuddle up with whenever they need a little soothing. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, Bearaby’s weighted blanket is like a big hug, but breathable.

$199, shop now

Bearaby. Bearaby

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Sure, a full at-home sauna would be nice and all, but when there’s no room to install an entire personal spa, a sauna blanket will just have to do. HigherDose’s infrared sauna blanket is the self-care gift that brings the experience home, to help support muscle recovery and ease joint pain. The blanket is layered with amethyst and tourmaline, with infrared heat to encourage glowy skin and collagen production.

$788, shop now

HigherDose. HigherDose

Oura Ring 4 Ceramic

If they’re always tracking their steps and want all the data they can possibly get on their daily healthy habits, but somehow haven’t treated themselves to an Oura Ring just yet, then you already know what to buy them for the holidays. This particular version is crafted from high-performance zirconia ceramic, with five to eight days of battery life from one charge. It provides insights into more than 50 health and wellness metrics, including sleep, activity, stress and metabolic heart health.

$499, shop now

Oura. Oura

Tata Harper Holiday Glow Getter

The gift of skincare never fails. Tata Harper’s holiday glow set simplifies it down to a radiance-boosting two-step routine; it includes the brand’s regenerating cleanser and antioxidant-packed resurfacing mask, along with a beauty brush and towelette.

$175, shop now

Tata Harper. Tata Harper

Avocado Organic Yoga Meditation Pillow

The meditating yogi will adore this handcrafted meditation pillow, made using only organic and vegan materials so that they can breathe through their mantras in style.

$89, shop now

Avocado. Avocado

Omnilux Contour Face

The beauty and wellness-loving pal will be so delighted when they open this near-infrared and LED red light therapy mask, which helps brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

$395, shop now

Omnilux. Omnilux

Dharma Shop Masterpiece Tibetan Singing Bowl

Handcrafted in partnership with a fourth and fifth-generation artisan group in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley, these gorgeous Tibetan singing bowls are ideal for sound healing. Hand-hammered from a blend of seven metals, the bowls also come with a cushion and striker.

$199, shop now

Dharma Shop. Dharma Shop

Alo Warrior Mat

You don’t have to go deep into New Age wellness territory to find your favorite yoga-lover a thoughtful gift that they’ll adore this holiday season—a high-quality yoga mat should do the trick.

$148, shop now

Alo. Alo

Wildling Empress Collection

Elevate her beauty routine with this complete facial gua sha set, which includes the Empress gua sha Stone, made of natural Bian stone, as well as a vitamin C-packed face mist and barrier repair oil.

$129, shop now

Wildling. Wildling

Nutribullet Personal Blender

If they’re always talking about the benefits of their morning smoothie, then gift them Nutribullet’s much-lauded personal blender, ideal for a single-serving that they’ll be able to easily bring with them to their first meeting of the day.

$79.95, shop now

Nutribullet. Nutribullet

The Laundress Indulgent Detergent Collection Trio

Upgrade the mundane by adding a little luxury to everyday rituals—even laundry. The Laundress’ Indulgent Detergent Collection Trio is a great gift that includes three delightful scents for any mood: Fresh Take, Soft Focus and Flora Luna.

$78, shop now

Laundress. Laundress

Klean Kanteen 32 oz TKWide Water Bottle with Twist Cap

For that friend who is always going on about the importance of non-toxic products: An insulated water bottle made from 90 percent post-consumer recycled stainless steel, with a built-in reusable steel straw.

$47, shop now

Klean Kanteen. Klean Kanteen

Hatch Restore 3 Sunrise Alarm Clock

A good night’s sleep is perhaps one of the most important components of any wellness routine. Hatch’s Restore is more than just an alarm clock; the sunrise alarm offers the most gentle wake-up, while the dimmable clock ensures the room stays dark after bedtime, and it even has sleep sounds so you don’t need a white noise machine, too, in addition to a bedside light.

$169.99, shop now

Hatch. Hatch

Parfums de Marly Home Diffuser

They won’t ever look to another diffuser again once they try out this ultra-luxe version from Parfums de Marly, which uses the fragrance house’s exclusive dry diffusing technique—that means no vapor infiltrating the home. Instead, a silent fan takes care of distributing the aroma.

$295, shop now

Parfums de Marly. Parfums de Marly

Kate McLeod The Dry Brush

Dry brushing helps promote exfoliation and cell renewal; it’s the pre-shower, pre-moisturizing ritual she’ll adore.

$26, shop now

Kate McLeod. Kate McLeod

Walden Salt Lamp

A less obvious take on the Himalayan salt lamp, Walden’s rectangular interpretation is inspired by monolithic forms and elemental materials. Made from solid stainless steel and natural Himalayan salt, and when illuminated, the warm glow of the salt lamp creates a soft, soothing atmosphere.

$288, shop now

Walden. Walden

Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal

The Five-Minute Journal isn’t just a passing fad. Whether they’re always fawning over the benefits of journaling or if you just think they could use a little more peace in their lives, gift them this notebook to practice gratitude.

$33, shop now

Intelligent Change. Intelligent Change

New York Pilates Classes

What better gift for the Pilates Princess than a gift card for a few free classes for the coming year?

From $100, shop now

New York Pilates. New York Pilates

Saltair Salt Water Vanilla Body Duo

Pamper her with this gift set, which includes a hydrating and moisturizing body butter as well as a body mist, in the delicious saltwater vanilla scent.

$34, shop now

Saltair. Saltair

The Alchemist’s Kitchen Crystal Amethyst Cluster

The friend who is always waxing poetic on the power of crystals will so appreciate this pretty purple amethyst gemstone. Even if you’re not into healing energy (amethyst is said to possess healing, protective and purifying qualities), you can’t deny that this isn’t a gorgeous addition to any home decor situation.

$24, shop now

The Alchemist’s Kitchen. The Alchemist's Kitchen
]]> 1603034
 Tiny Treasures: The Stocking Stuffers She’ll Love This Holiday Season https://observer.com/list/stocking-stuffers-for-her-luxury-gifts/ Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:00:20 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1450114 The holiday season is upon us, and as you navigate gift-giving this year, remember that while some believe bigger is better, that’s not always the case when it comes to a thoughtful gift. Oftentimes, the best—not to mention the most luxurious—things come in small packages.

For the upcoming holidays, put in the extra effort to find her the most delightful petite presents. The perfect stocking stuffer isn’t kitschy—it’s a tiny treasure that you’ve put thought into. Whether she’s all about self-care, is the consummate bookworm, loves being in the kitchen or simply appreciates all of the finer things in life, there’s a charming gift out there to tuck into her Christmas stocking that is far from bland. If you’re concerned about finding a pint-sized yet considerate holiday gift, you’ve come to the right place. From indulgent perfumes and sparkly jewelry to chic sunglasses and plush purses, these are the sophisticated and adorable stocking stuffer ideas that she’ll absolutely love for the holidays this year.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Best Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide for Her

Charlotte Tilbury Mini Pillow Talk Lipstick and Liner Set

A glamorous pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses is sure to be a hit, and is both a perfectly pint-sized and unapologetically luxurious gift.

$25, SHOP NOW

Charlotte Tilbury. Charlotte Tilbury

Maison Flâneur ‘Love Letter’ Ceramic Matchbox

Finally, a charming knickknack that embraces whimsy, without kitsch: a handcrafted porcelain matchbox, for equal parts function and fancy.

$63, shop now

Maison Flâneur. Maison Flâneur

Gohar World Horn and Mother-of-Pearl Caviar Set

When eating caviar out of a tin simply won’t do: A hand-carved horn and mother-of-pearl set made just for caviar service.

$298, shop now

Gohar World. Gohar World

Brightland Mini Alive Olive Oil

Olive oil is a foolproof gift idea; it’s something that pretty much everyone always needs. This mini version of Brightland’s “Alive” olive oil is a chic and easy option to toss into her stocking.

$20, SHOP NOW

Brightland. Brightland

Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Scalp Dermaroller

This dermatologist-developed tool gently exfoliates the scalp, to maximize the efficacy of all other hair products.

$48, shop now

Vegamour. Vegamour

Le Creuset Stoneware Mini Cocottes with Cookbook, Set of 5

You don’t have to spend a small fortune to treat your loved one to something special from Le Creuset. A set of four petite covered cocottes fits perfectly in her stocking, and it even comes with an adorable cookbook.

$90, shop now

Le Creuset. Williams Sonoma

Nori Handheld Steamer and Iron

The Nori Press is quite possibly the most convenient and user-friendly way to iron and steam clothing, all in a very travel-friendly device—she won’t ever have to deal with wrinkled ensembles again.

$120, SHOP NOW

Nori. Nori

Naadam The Essential Ribbed Cashmere Beanie

A plush winter white cashmere beanie is a cold weather accessory essential.

$88, SHOP NOW

Naadam. Naadam

Susan Alexandra Star of Susan Earrings

Don’t forget about a Hanukkah treat, like these adorable earrings that are perfect for the holidays.

$158, SHOP NOW

Susan Alexandra. Susan Alexandra

Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLust: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick

Iconic makeup artist Pat McGrath never misses, but this specific long-wearing lipstick has become one of the most-coveted on the market after it was revealed that it’s Taylor Swift’s go-to.

$34, SHOP NOW

Pat McGrath Labs. Pat McGrath Labs

Bombas Women’s Gripper Slipper

What’s better than the gift of cozy? Bombas’ petite slippers feature a thick footbed for extra cushioning, with an extra-warm lining. They even have special grips on the outsole to prevent slipping in the house.

$55, SHOP NOW

Bombas. Bombas

Bottega Veneta BV1415SK Sunglasses

A pair of classic black sunglasses with a decidedly modern tilt is a no-brainer when it comes to a small gift.

$480, SHOP NOW

Bottega Veneta. Bottega Veneta

Rabbit Electric Corkscrew

For the oenophile, a gadget she’ll turn to for every bottle—a rechargeable corkscrew that makes opening any vino a breeze.

$109.95, shop now

Williams Sonoma

BonBon NYC Holiday Gift Box

If she can’t get enough of Swedish candy, consider this packed gift box with all the best flavors.

$20, SHOP NOW

Bon Bon. Bon Bon

Ann Taylor Embellished Claw Clip

If she loves all things glitz and glam, an embellished hair clip will do the trick.

$22.95, SHOP NOW

Ann Taylor. Ann Taylor

Knesko Amethyst Roller

She’ll love this soothing amethyst roller, to help smooth, sculpt and detoxify.

$75, SHOP NOW

Knesko. Knesko

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Can’t figure out what to get the voracious reader in your life? Try the brand-new Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, which is perfect for the on-the-go bookworm.

$159.99, Shop Now

Amazon Kindle. Amazon.

Equator Coffee Jaguar Espresso Blend Coffee Beans

The coffee fanatic will always appreciate some quality espresso beans.

$19.50, Shop Now

Equator Coffee. Williams Sonoma

Leatherology Tab Bookmark

For the bookworm, a leather tab bookmark is a simple yet thoughtful gift. The tab design allows the reader to easily keep their place, and you can even get it personalized, for an extra-special touch.

$15, Shop Now

Leatherology. Leatherology

Compartés 10-Piece Signature Truffle Gift Box

Anyone with a sweet tooth will adore these chocolate truffles—and if you want to throw in another treat, add in a few chocolate bars.

$39.95, SHOP NOW

Compartés. Compartes

Cartier Juste un Clou Ring with Diamonds

Small luxuries often make a bigger statement than much larger gifts, like Cartier’s iconic Juste un Clou, with sparkling diamonds. It’s proof that sometimes, the little things come out on top.

$3,120, SHOP NOW

Cartier. Cartier

Laneige Minty Lip Duo

A limited-edition Laneige holiday lip duo is both charmingly kitschy and actually useful, because who wants to use a boring Chapstick right now? The festive flavors—candy cane lip balm and peppermint lip mask—make this an extra-cute stocking stuffer.

$24, SHOP NOW

Laneige. Laneige

Prada Saffiano Leather Case for iPhone 16 Pro

The woman who’s all about having the newest tech gadgets already has the latest iPhone, so this year, gift her a splurge-worthy designer phone case, like Prada’s chic leather one.

$395, SHOP NOW

Prada. Prada

Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Jet Set

Who wouldn’t love a travel-sized kit with three of Sol de Janeiro cult-favorite products, in the brand’s TikTok-viral Cream Cheirosa ’62 scent? This Sephora-exclusive gift set includes  TSA-ready best-sellers like the shower cream-gel, fragrance mist and, of course, the Bum Bum cream, for the ultimate in truly delicious hydration.

$34, Shop Now

Sol de Janeiro. Sol de Janeiro

Aspinal Playing Cards & Holder

Your next card game just got a serious luxury improvement thanks to Aspinal—this deck comes in an elegant brown leather case, and the actual cards feature delicate gold accents and stars.

$185, SHOP NOW

Aspinal of London. Aspinal of London

Chanel Diamond Dust Oversize Illuminating Powder

Upgrade her glam situation with Chanel’s gorgeous pearlescent illuminating powder—it’s the perfect gift for the beauty lover.

$95, SHOP NOW

Chanel. Chanel

Truff Black Truffle Salt

Whether or not she’s a serious foodie, add a touch of indulgence to any meal with this truffle sea salt.

$14.99, SHOP NOW

Truff. Truff

Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh Cream Blush Stick

Now that summer tans have officially faded, it’s a little harder to keep that rosy-cheeked look. That is, until she tries out  Victoria Beckham’s creamy blush, which adds the perfect sun-kissed glow.

$42, SHOP NOW

Victoria Beckham Beauty. Victoria Beckham Beauty

Saks Fifth Avenue Collection Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves

A sophisticated pair of cashmere-lined leather gloves are a timeless staple.

$165, SHOP NOW

Saks Fifth Avenue. Saks Fifth Avenue

Book of the Month Three-Month Membership

The bookworm in your life will love this three-month Book of the Month membership, so she can get a head start on her 2025 reading list.

$59.99, SHOP NOW

Book of the Month. Book of the Month

Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil

Is this lip oil ridiculously overpriced? Absolutely, but it’s also really, really good, and she deserves the best of the best.

$42, SHOP NOW

Dior. Dior

Apple AirPods Wireless Ear Buds

Gift her a fresh gadget in the form of the latest iteration of Airpods, which come with Bluetooth capabilities, a charging case and personalized spatial audio. These are also sweat- and water-resistant, and are the perfect size to toss in her stocking.

$179.99, SHOP NOW

Apple. Amazon

Sisley Paris Protective Nourishing Hair Collection

Sisley’s hair care set includes a full-size restorative and heat-protective cream, in addition to small travel sizes of conditioner, hair oil and shampoo, for the ultimate in self-care.

$125, SHOP NOW

Sisley Paris. Sisley Paris

Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum Travel Set

If you already know what scent she prefers, consider gifting her a travel-sized refillable version of her favorite fragrance. Parfums de Marly’s beloved Delina, for example, is available in a gift-ready set with both a travel case and three 10-milliliter refills.

$310, SHOP NOW

Parfums de Marly. Parfums de Marly

Bala Weights

Bala’s super versatile, two-pound arm and ankle weights take workouts to the next level.

$65, SHOP NOW

Bala. Bala

Loewe Fringed Appliquéd Brushed Mohair-Blend Scarf

A plush mohair-blend scarf with a leather appliqué is the cold-weather accessory she’ll turn to all season long.

$450, SHOP NOW

Loewe. Loewe

Hanyul Yuja Brightening Toner Pads with Vitamin C and Niacinamide

The skincare guru will race to the closest mirror to start using these K-beauty brightening toner pads right away.

$26, SHOP NOW

Hanyul. Hanyul

Vintner’s Daughter The Signature Set: Botanical Serum and Active Treatment Essence

Vintner’s Daughter’s botanical serum has developed a well-earned cult following over the years, with many a beauty aficionado raving about the incredible results. The brand’s second product is this essence, which has over 70 water-soluble ingredients including vitamin c (the serum has oil-soluble ingredients, so they work so well together) and hyaluronic acid. This multi-use essence manages to simultaneously hydrate, brighten and gently exfoliate, for true glowing skin, so use the two together for the perfect complementary experience.

$415, SHOP NOW

Vintner’s Daughter. Vintner's Daughter

New York Pilates Class Gift Card

Give her the gift of fitness this holiday season, with a package of classes to cult-favorite reformer workout New York Pilates, which she can use at any of NYP’s NYC studios.

From $100, SHOP NOW

New York Pilates. New York Pilates

Slip 4-Piece Silk Scrunchie Ornament Set

A four-piece set of silky scrunchies are the luxe hair gift she didn’t know she needed—and practical, too.

$34, SHOP NOW

Slip. Slip

Augustinus Bader The Hand Treatment

Hand cream is a must during these chilly, brisk and dry times of year, and she’ll truly look forward to moisturizing with Augustinus Bader’s indulgent treatment.

$58, Shop Now

Augustinus Bader. Augustinus Bader

Elsa Peretti Bean Design Pendant

The minimalist will love Tiffany’s timeless Elsa Peretti bean necklace in yellow gold.

$800, SHOP NOW

Tiffany and Co. Tiffany and Co.

Blissy Silk Sleep Mask

You can’t beat the gift of a good night’s beauty sleep in this silky eye mask.

$39.95, SHOP NOW

Blissy. Blissy

RéVive Skincare Restorative Bundle

A luxurious night cream and eye cream set add an even more indulgent edge to the ultimate self-care routine.

$571.50, SHOP NOW

RéVive Skincare. RéVive Skincare

Hydro Flask Micro Hydro Mini Bottle

A mini water bottle—6.7 ounces, to be exact—is the petite tumbler she needs when she wants to keep hydrated, but doesn’t want to lug around a massive jug of water.

$24.95, SHOP NOW

Hydro Flask. Hydro Flask

Joanna Czech The Kit

Celeb-adored facialist Joanna Czech’s first skincare line is perfect nourishing beauty gift for the skincare enthusiast in your life. This chic seven-piece kit includes The Cleansing Wipes, The Toner, The C+ Serum, The Soothing Serum, The Cream, The Balm and The Face Mask, all of which seamlessly fit in a glamorous blue silk nylon pouch.

$1,250, SHOP NOW

Joanna Czech. Joanna Czech

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Pillowcase

She’ll have the sweetest dreams thanks to this silky pillowcase.

$88, SHOP NOW

Eberjey. Eberjey

Keap Wood Cabin Candle

A candle inspired by a cozy wood cabin is perfect for this wintry time of year. Sustainably and ethically made in New York, Keap’s Wood Cabin votive smells of cedar, palo santo and fireside ambers, so you can get all the best parts of a woodsy hike, without getting off the couch.

$54.50, SHOP NOW

Keap. Keap

Ohom Ui 3 Self-Heating Mug Set

The caffeine fanatic will adore this high-tech mug, which comes with a special charger that keeps coffee warm.

$104.95, SHOP NOW

Ohom. Ohom

Santa Maria Novella Lavender Scented Wax Tablets

From Italy’s oldest perfume house: two lavender-scented wax tablets, perfect to perfume her home, whether she wants to add them to her linen closet, wardrobe or drawers.

$40, SHOP NOW

Santa Maria Novella. Santa Maria Novella

Fortnum & Mason Preserve Trio

A delicious trio of preserves from acclaimed English store Fortnum and Mason is the most sophisticated sweet treat.

$39.95, SHOP NOW

Fortnum & Mason. Fortnum & Mason

Smythson Heart Keyring in Panama

An elegant leather key chain is a practical yet indulgent gift.

$110, SHOP NOW

Smythson. Smythson

Cozy Earth The Plush Modern Crew Sock

Who says socks have to be a boring gift? These oh-so-plush cozy socks are perfect for winter.

$38, SHOP NOW

Cozy Earth. Cozy Earth

lliyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Gel Face Mask

The gift of personal care is hard to beat. These Illiyoon sheet masks are an easy beauty item to throw in any stocking—she’ll probably put it right on when she opens it up on Christmas morning.

$29.99, SHOP NOW

Illiyoon. Illiyoon

Mirth Caftan Travel Pouch in Clover Bloom

This chic little pouch is perfect for the jet-setter in your life.

$30, SHOP NOW

Mirth. Mirth

Dior Nail Glow Beautifying Nail Care

Whether she prefers to do her nails at home or go out for a weekly manicure, this Dior nail polish will become an immediate non-negotiable in her nailcare routine.

$34, SHOP NOW

Dior. Dior

Gucci Softbit Textured-Leather Cardholder

Help her start the new year fresh with a small black leather card case wallet.

$610, SHOP NOW

Gucci. Gucci

Away Passport Holder

A sleek passport holder is perfect for the jet-setter—she’ll be able to keep all her travel must-haves in one place.

$78, SHOP NOW

Away. Away

Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy

The viral Solawave wand is a great addition to her skincare routine; it uses red light therapy, galvanic current, facial massage and therapeutic warmth to help boost radiance while also de-puffing and reducing the look of fine lines, wrinkles and acne.

$169, SHOP NOW

Solawave. Solawave

Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer

This mini toiletry kit is specially designed to organize and store all her travel essentials, so all her on-the-go beauty products will be perfectly organized.

$60, SHOP NOW

Dagne Dover. Dagne Dover
]]> 1450114
 Small Gifts, Big Flex: The Stocking Stuffers He’ll Actually Appreciate https://observer.com/list/the-best-stocking-stuffers-for-the-most-special-men-in-your-life/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:15:14 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1450193 It’s fair to say that men are notoriously difficult to shop for, especially when it comes to finding the perfect stocking stuffer-appropriate holiday gift. But instead of getting discouraged by the stocking parameters, use them to your advantage, because sometimes, the most thoughtful gifts are the ones that come in the smallest packages.

There are plenty of petite presents out there that he’ll absolutely love, and instead of waiting until the last minute to start hunting around for the best stocking stuffers, get a head start on your holiday shopping for the most important guy in your life. Whether he’s a self-proclaimed foodie, a golfing enthusiast, a DIY-er, or is all about the grooming self-care, we’ve got you covered with plenty of unique gift ideas. From the perfectly practical to the wonderfully frivolous, these are the best stocking stuffer ideas that he’ll absolutely love this holiday season.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Best Stocking Stuffers for Men

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Upgrade his tired old headphones with this fancy, petite pair of noise-canceling earbuds, which have Bluetooth capabilities and spatial audio, and come in a wireless portable charger case.

$299, SHOP NOW

Bose. Bose

Graphic Image On the Green Green Traditional Leather Notebook

The golf enthusiast will be counting down to his next tee time with this charming score book, which records up to 56 rounds and notes on play.

$45, shop now

Graphic Image. Graphic Image

Dunhill Rollagas Palladium-Plated Lighter

First made in 1956, Dunhill’s Rollagas light is nothing short of iconic, with its signature lines pattern and palladium-plated brass body.

$1,500, shop now

Dunhill. Dunhill

Monos Metro Toiletry Case

Freshen up his travel accessories situation with this nylon twill toiletry case.

$80, SHOP NOW

Monos. Monos

Philips Beardtrimmer Series 5000

Instead of elaborate grooming gadgets, add this beard trimmer to his stocking; it also cuts hair, and features 40 adjustable lengths.

$40, shop now

Philips. Philips

Williams Sonoma Rub Library

If he’s already counting down to summer grilling season, add this 12-piece set of Williams Sonoma’s most popular spice rubs to his stocking.

$99.95, SHOP NOW

Williams Sonoma. Williams Sonoma

Luca Faloni Navy Cashmere Baseball Cap

The humble baseball cap gets a dapper upgrade, courtesy of Luca Faloni’s navy cashmere version.

$275, SHOP NOW

Luca Faloni. Luca Faloni

Montblanc Meisterstück The Origin Collection Classique Ballpoint

For a small gift that blends functionality with pure indulgence, try Montblanc’s luxurious ballpoint.

$630, SHOP NOW

Montblanc. Montblanc

Le Labo Fleur d’Oranger Shower Gel

A fancy body wash brings a little extra luxury to his everyday routine.

$65, shop now

Le Labo. Le Labo

Amazon Kindle

Amazon recently debuted new versions of almost all of their best-selling Kindles, so if he’s always got his nose in a book, gift him the newly revamped classic Kindle, so he can easily take his e-books with him on the go.

$109.99, SHOP NOW

Amazon Kindle. Amazon

The Elder Statesman Yosemite Ribbed Cashmere Socks

It turns out that socks can, in fact, be a good gift—just look at these Elder Statesman cashmere ribbed socks, which he’s sure to put on right on Christmas morning.

$255, SHOP NOW

The Elder Statesman. The Elder Statesman

Le Labo Hinoki Hand Soap

When contemplating the perfect stocking stuffer, consider the splurge-worthy upgrades of items you know he’ll use, like this luxe Le Labo soap.

$37, SHOP NOW

Le Labo. Le Labo

Truff Variety Bundle

This truffle-infused hot sauce is the yummiest addition to any meal.

$67.99, SHOP NOW

Truff. Truff

Thousand Fell Men’s Court Sneakers

Sleek white sneakers are an important wardrobe staple.

$155, SHOP NOW

Thousand Fell. Thousand Fell

Saint Laurent Multitooled Knife

Trying to find the perfect gift for the luxury-loving outdoorsman in your life?  Look no further than Saint Laurent’s delightfully over-the-top multi-tool, with scissors, wood saw, knife, screwdriver and corkscrew abilities.

$255, SHOP NOW

Yves Saint Laurent. YSL

Aspinal of London Travel Backgammon Set

If he’s a backgammon aficionado—or if he’s just interested in learning to play—add this portable set to his Christmas stocking.

$755, SHOP NOW

Aspinal of London. Aspinal of London

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Mon Beau Sapin Scented Candle

Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s charming holiday candles are such great stocking stuffers, and this particular votive promises it’ll smell like Christmas morning all season long.

$105, SHOP NOW

Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Belt

A stylish and luxurious Italian leather belt is an instant classic.

$720, SHOP NOW

Bottega Veneta. Bottega Veneta

Tom Ford Ébène Fumé Parfum

This absolutely delicious woodsy amber Tom Ford fragrance is so delightful that you won’t be able to resist borrowing it.

$300, SHOP NOW

Tom Ford. Tom Ford

Blenders Night Spree Lunar Snow Goggles

The ski enthusiast will adore these snow goggles, which are perfect for his next ski adventure.

$79, SHOP NOW

Blenders. Blenders

Smythson Panama Cross-Grain Leather Luggage Tag

Help him stay organized while on the go with this classic leather luggage tag.

$145, SHOP NOW

Smythson. Smythson

Peter Millar Cashmere Woven Scarf

A plush cashmere scarf is essential for winter dressing.

$225, SHOP NOW

Peter Millar. Peter Millar

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Geographic Automatic 40mm Stainless Steel and Leather Watch

If you really want to splurge on a luxury gift, go all out with an absolutely fabulous timepiece, like this gorgeous watch. It’s not about something he needs—no, this is all about presenting him with something unapologetically extravagant, proving that sometimes, the best gifts really do come in the smallest packages.

$15,540, SHOP NOW

Jaeger-LeCoultre. Jaeger-LeCoultre

Krewe Matthew Sunglasses in Bottle Green Polarized

He’ll wear these timeless sunglasses all year long.

$315, SHOP NOW

Krewe. Krewe

Academy Sports Wilson Duo Soft Golf Balls 12-Pack

The golfer will so appreciate a fresh set of soft golf balls for his next trip to the links.

$20, SHOP NOW

Academy Sports. Academy Sports

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Cashmere-Lined Lambskin Gloves

Crafted in Italy from the softest lambskin, these cashmere-lined Ralph Lauren Purple Label gloves will keep him warm during the coldest time of year.

$695, SHOP NOW

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

A nourishing hand cream like this Kiehl’s lotion will keep his skin hydrated and smooth, preventing any chapping or cracking even with the harsh winter temps.

$34, SHOP NOW

Kiehl’s. Sephora

Caldera + Lab The Deep Reviving Face Mask

Specially formulated for men, this weekly detoxifying clay mask is packed with ingredients like kakadu plum, plant-derived squash and snow mushrooms, for gentle exfoliation and cleansing.

$42, SHOP NOW

Caldera + Lab. Caldera + Lab

Williams Sonoma Signature Electric Wine Opener

Elevate his at-home bar situation with a gadget like this rechargeable electric wine opener, which easily removes the wine cork with just the press of a button. The wine bottle opener comes with a rechargeable battery, USB charging cord and a black velvet storage pouch.

$129.95, SHOP NOW

Williams Sonoma. Williams Sonoma

Horace Complete Face Gift Set

Horace skincare is specifically formulated for men, and this particular set offers everything he needs in his routine, including a cleanser, moisturizer, serum, scrub and mask. After all, he deserves a self-care moment, too.

$91, SHOP NOW

Horace. Horace

La Chatelaine Deep Blue Sea Men’s Soap

A beautifully-packaged soap is always a good gift, and this Provence-made organic soap is especially lovely.

$14, SHOP NOW

La Chatelaine. La Chatelaine

Smeg Mini Milk Frother

For the man whose day simply does not begin before he’s had his first cappuccino: a mini Smeg milk frother, in the brand’s signature 1950s-style retro aesthetic. It’s small, but packs a punch, with three preset functions (hot froth, hot milk and cold froth).

$169.95, SHOP NOW

Smeg. Smeg

Bona Furtuna Classic Mini Olive Oil Collection

You simply can’t go wrong with a high-quality olive oil, but don’t stop at just one bottle. Instead, go a step further with this three-product set, which includes Bona Furtuna’s three top award-winning olive oils: the flagship Heritage Blend, Forte Blend and Biancolilla Centinara.

$33, SHOP NOW

Furtuna. Furtuna

The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Full Size Kit With Shaving Brush

This luxe grooming kit contains pre-shave oil, shaving cream, after-shave balm and a shaving brush with synthetic bristles. The scent from the sandalwood essential oil is just *chef’s kiss* for this luxurious facial hair shaving routine.

$120, SHOP NOW

The Art of Shaving. The Art of Shaving

The Mark Playing Cards

For an easy contribution to game night, throw these playing cards from the Mark Hotel into his stocking.

$35, SHOP NOW

The Mark. The Mark

Apple iPad Pro

Upgrade his tech with the new iPad Pro, so he can do everything from working and messaging to reading and browsing while on the go.

From $999, SHOP NOW

Apple. Apple

Mott & Bow Men’s Long Sleeve Crew Tee Driggs

Replace his worn-out t-shirt with this ultra-soft, classic long-sleeved crew neck.

$45, Shop Now

Mott & Bow. Mott and Bow

Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Tipped Cashmere Rib Beanie Hat

Treat your loved one to an indulgent purchase he’s been eyeing, like this buttery soft cashmere beanie.

$550, SHOP NOW

Brunello Cucinelli. Brunello Cucinelli

APL Men’s TechLoom Zipline Sneakers

APL’s running sneakers are supportive, breathable and lightweight, with extra cushioning for the best workout.

$350, SHOP NOW

APL. APL

Aerin Bamboo Pizza Cutter

Pizza night just got a very stylish upgrade thanks to this bamboo pie cutter.

$70, SHOP NOW

Aerin. Aerin

Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Gran Reserva Rum Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky

This Glenfiddich single malt is aged 21 years, before being finished for four months in casks specially soaked in a custom blend of rum.

$268, SHOP NOW

Glenfiddich. Glenfiddich

Ugg Tasman Slipper

These oh-so-comfy Ugg sherpa slippers make for such a great gift that he’ll actually use.

$110, SHOP NOW

Ugg. Nordstrom

Jack Black Lip Balm Trio

He’ll have no issues hydrating his lips this winter with this trio set.

$22, SHOP NOW

Jack Black. Sephora

Apple AirTag 2-Pack with 2 TPU Keychains & Voucher

The guy who tends to lose track of things will benefit from an Apple AirTag; whether it’s his suitcase, briefcase, keys or other little items. This set includes two Apple AirTags, plus two keychains.

$95, SHOP NOW

Apple. QVC
]]> 1450193
 Jet Set: Holiday Gifts for the Traveler Who Has It All https://observer.com/list/holiday-gifts-for-travel-lovers/ Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:30:15 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1501255 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re not sure about how to find the perfect gift for the travel lover in your life, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve found all the best travel gifts for the loved one who’s constantly on the go and planning her next adventure, ranging from the practical to the fanciful.

There’s no need to panic if you’re running out of time—plenty of these presents are available with next-day shipping. If you do have some extra breathing room, consider adding an extra personalization to her holiday gift. From a designer duffel bag and luxe aluminum suitcase to a silky eye mask and classic tote bag, these are the best travel gifts for travelers.

Check out all of Observer’s curated luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Ultimate Gift Guide for the Jet-Setter this Holiday Season

Papier Travel Journal

For the friend who’s always venturing off on her next wanderlust-worthy adventure, a travel journal with space to scribble itineraries, packing lists and memories.

$38, shop now

Papier. Papier

Anya Hindmarch Logo Vanity Kit Jacquard Nylon in Black

Anya Hindmarch’s vanity kit just might be one of the most luxurious toiletry bags out there. It has multiple compartments and sections for organizing all her makeup and travel essentials when on the go.

$520, shop now

Anya Hindmarch. Anya Hindmarch

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

When it comes to on-the-go tech accessories, a pair of noise-canceling headphones is high on the list of must-haves, especially for those who are always on long-haul flights—no one wants to spend that red-eye over the Atlantic Ocean listening to a screaming baby or snoring seatmate. There are a ton of options out there, but skip the earbuds and try a pair of over-ear headphones. If you’re not sure how to navigate the many tech gadgets out there, stick with Apple’s high-quality AirPods Max headphones, with wireless charging and Bluetooth capabilities.

$549, shop now

Apple. Apple

Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandoulière 45

If you want to splurge on a truly great gift that she’ll have forever, consider Louis Vuitton’s classic duffel bag in monogram canvas. Yes, this is definitely pricey, but the leather travel bag is a timeless staple, and is sure to be her go-to personal item when preparing for weekend getaways for years to come.

$2,570, shop now

Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton

Laneige Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set

Every frequent traveler needs some quality skincare products, and especially in TSA-approved travel sizes. This four-piece set includes everything she needs to keep her skin hydrated and dewy while on the go: a cleanser, toner, moisturizer and lip mask.

$32, shop now

Laneige. Laneige

Hermès R.M.S Travel Tag

The holidays are when you treat someone to a gift that’s utterly fanciful, like an admittedly over-the-top Hermès luggage tag in a bold blue calfskin leather.

$670, shop now

Hermès. Hermès

MZ Wallace Black Metro Backpack II

For the traveler who prefers to be hands-free—MZ Wallace’s travel backpack, with plenty of storage, an array of pockets and a padded laptop compartment.

$275, shop now

MZ Wallace. MZ Wallace

Smythson Passport Cover in Panama

An elegant passport holder in lightweight yet durable leather is a holiday gift she’ll treasure—and one that you know she’ll actually use. Crafted from cross-grain leather, Smythson’s Panama passport case is both practical and indulgent, with pockets for her passport and travel documents—a lesson in organized style.

$240, shop now

Smythson. Smythson

Dosey 7-Day Pill Compact

Help the frequent traveler in your life stay organized and healthy while on the go with Dosey’s pill compact. It keeps all medications organized in a sleek and stylish compact; it conveniently fits in a carry-on bag or with all their toiletries, and even comes with a built-in mirror.

$26, shop now

Dosey. Dosey

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Tote

Replace her worn-out travel bag with Tumi’s water-resistant tote bag. It’s super lightweight, and great to use as a personal bag along with her go-to rolling suitcase. It folds into a smaller zip bag, for those “just in case” moments.

$175, shop now

Tumi. Tumi

Slip Rose Contour Sleep Mask

On the hunt for a petite yet stylish stocking stuffer? A plush silk eye mask will do the trick, like Slip’s contour sleep mask, so she can get her beauty sleep no matter where she’s trying to rest.

$75, shop now

Slip. Slip

Splendid The Jet Set Polo Sweater

This polo-style pullover is part of Splendid’s Jet Set collection, ideal for mixing and matching for all your travel needs. It’s soft, comfy and chic, so you don’t look like a total mess when you land.

$188, shop now

Splendid. Splendid

Amazon Kindle

If you’re contemplating travel gift ideas and gadgets for the bookworm in your life, then order her a new Amazon Kindle ASAP. The latest versions of the e-readers are better than ever, and this particular option is the most lightweight Kindle yet, and a single USB-C charge will last up to six weeks.

$109.99, shop now

Kindle. Amazon

Away The Medium: Aluminum Edition

While certain travelers are carry-on bag only, others prefer checked luggage. If she falls into the latter group, order her Away’s Aluminum rolling suitcase, which features an aluminum hard shell, a TSA-approved lock and 360-degree spinner wheels on the outside. The interior is just as well-designed, with an interior compression system for the ultimate in functionality and a packable experience, along with a laundry bag. Consider throwing in an AirTag to make sure it doesn’t get lost, too.

$725, shop now

Away. Away

Bombas Women’s Everyday Compression Sock 3-Pack

Socks are, admittedly, not the sexiest of gifts, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be very much appreciated on her next long flight. Bombas’ compression socks will keep her comfortable and supported while traveling, so she can avoid unnecessary swelling once she arrived to her hotel room.

$90, shop now

Bombas Bombas

July Packing Cells: Eight Pack

Replace her worn-out packing cubes with July’s eight-piece set, made out of lightweight, machine-washable nylon. These are oh-so-helpful for staying organized while packing—and for fitting in a few extra pieces of clothing. If you really want to get her the best gift, make sure to get these monogrammed ahead of time.

$95, shop now

July. July
]]> 1501255
 The Most Coveted Beauty Gifts for the Holidays https://observer.com/list/best-beauty-gift-ideas/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:16:23 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1459254 If holiday shopping for the beauty lover in your life is feeling ever so daunting right now, then you’re in the right place. Skincare and beauty—especially fragrance—can be so personal, so it’s understandable that you might feel wary of gifting anything beauty-related to even your closest of pals. But that’s what makes the best holiday beauty sets so appealing: they often include a few different products, so the recipient is able to test out multiple options and decide which they love the most.

This is the time of year to give your beauty-loving friends a restock on their favorite products, or perhaps try out that new launch they’ve been eyeing, or splurge on a high-tech device. Oh, and don’t forget to get yourself a little something special, too. It doesn’t matter if you’re on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift for the budding skincare enthusiast or shopping for a longtime makeup expert; we’ve done the hard work for you and found the loveliest beauty sets that they’ll simply adore.

From a perfume discovery set and a caviar skincare duo to splurge-worthy makeup brushes and designer nail polish, these are the best beauty gifts that are sure to be a hit this holiday season.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Best Holiday Beauty Gifts for Her

Dior Volume and Glow Makeup Holiday 2025 Gift Set

This luxe limited-edition set includes an embellished makeup set filled with the brand’s beloved lip oil, viral pink blush and a lengthening mascara.

$117, shop now

Dior. Dior

Kérastase Gloss Absolu Anti-Frizz Essentials

Is there any better gift than that of glossy hair? For the haircare lover, Kérastase’s Discover the Gloss Absolu Essentials bundle has all the essentials for positively lustrous locks, including a shampoo, conditioner and glazing oil.

$123, shop now

Kérastase. Kérastase

La Prairie Prime And Lift Duo

There are few little luxuries as utterly indulgent as La Prairie. This skincare duo features the brand’s Skin Caviar pre-serum essence, distilled with caviar water, as well as the Skin Caviar Liquid Lift. It’s all delightfully over-the-top and quite simply sumptuous—perfect for the luxury-loving skincare guru.

$644, shop now

La Prairie. La Prairie

La Bonne Brosse Trio: The Bonne Brosse, Comb and Cherry Red Pouch

Bring a touch of luxury to the most mundane activities with a sweet holiday gift like this haircare set. La Bonne Brosse’s trio features the brand’s ergonomic hairbrush, which is available in different models based on hair types, as well as a matching comb and a velvet pouch.

$262, shop now

La Bonne Brosse. La Bonne Brosse

Glossier Sugar + Spice Balm Dotcom Duo

Embrace the kitsch of Glossier’s oh-so-festive limited-edition Balm Dotcom duo, with ginger snap and peppermint bark flavors.

$25, shop now

Glossier. Glossier

Kora Organics Turmeric Glow Trio

Miranda Kerr’s certified-organic skincare line brought back its three-product turmeric set for the holidays; this one includes a mini foaming cleanser, mini scrub/mask and a full-size moisturizer.

$80, shop now

Kora Organics. Kora Organics

Obagi Nu-Cil BioStim Scalp Serum

A haircare gift that’s more than the usual shampoo and conditioner set, and actually fixes a problem? Sign us up. Obagi’s new scalp serum helps promote scalp health and hair follicles for denser and fuller hair, while also hydrating, soothing and balancing the scalp. Ideal for that friend who’s been complaining about more shedding than usual.

$125, shop now

Obagi. Obagi

Grove England Luxury Bathing Set

Ah, the gift of self-care. Grove England’s anemone-scented set has everything she needs for a night of pure relaxation: a bath wash, body oil and a perfumed candle.

$201, shop now

Grove. Grove

Fresh Crème Ancienne Essence

Fresh’s new essence is a dreamy start to any skincare routine. Apply after cleanser; it’s lightweight and soft on the skin, but still a total powerhouse thanks to smoothing and firming properties.

$184, shop now

Fresh. Fresh

Sunday Riley Deep Dive Hydration and Plumping Gift Set

Sunday Riley’s two-piece set is small but mighty. First, Good Genes lactic acid serum brightens and tightens, while the Tidal hydration and plumping serum takes care of the rest.

Sunday Riley. Sunday Riley

Oak Essentials The Body Routine

This might be the most pampering body care routine on the market. The Oak Essentials gift set features a body wash, body scrub, body balm, body lotion and body oil, all of which are packed with nourishing, hydrating and exfoliating ingredients for the softest skin yet.

$195, shop now

Oak Essentials. Oak Essentials

Eight Day The Performance Duo

Eighth Day’s two-piece set is composed of the Resurfacing Tonic for exfoliation, along with the Regenerative Serum, which helps stimulate the skin’s ability to renew, restore, regenerate, and address major signs of aging.

$280, shop now

Eighth Day Eighth Day

Sisley Paris Ginkgo Gua Sha Massage Tool

Proof that good things come in small packages: This sleek Sisley Paris gua sha beauty tool, which helps sculpt, smooth and lift skin. It makes for a great stocking stuffer, too.

$170, shop now

Sisley Paris. Sisley Paris

Valmont l’Elixir des Glaciers Crème De Masque Majestueuse

Swiss skincare brand Valmont’s l’Elixir des Glaciers Crème De Masque Majestueuse is a lush beauty balm that uses ethically-sourced ingredients from Swiss beehives. It can be used as a daily cream or a mask, but either way, she’ll adore how soft, smooth and refreshed her skin looks.

$550, shop now

Valmont. Valmont

Furtuna Skin Transformation Set: Rituale Luminoso

If she hasn’t yet heard of Furtuna Skin, this is your chance to introduce her to the Italian brand’s ultra-high-quality beauty products. This three-piece bundle includes micellar essence, face and eye serum and a nourishing, moisturizing oil.

$395, shop now

Furtuna Skin. Furtuna Skin

Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase & Skinny Scrunchie Set Nordstrom Exclusive

The true beauty enthusiast knows the secret to glowing skin is not just about what’s in your skincare cabinet—a good night’s sleep is also essential, starting with what she’s sleeping on. Silk pillowcases are proven to help your skin retain hydration, since the material won’t absorb all those lotions and potions, and the silky smooth material also helps prevent new fine lines. The adorable scrunchies are perfect for tying back hair without breakage.

$105, shop now

Slip. Nordstrom

La Roche-Posay Dry Skin Saver Set

For the jet-setter who likes to keep it simple: A straightforward three-step routine from La Roche-Posay that’s perfect for dry, stressed-out skin, including a gentle face cleanser, hydrating moisturizer and, of course, the viral Cicaplast balm—one of the few TikTok crazes that’s genuinely worth it.

$32, shop now

La Roche-Posay. La Roche-Posay

Saie Mini Dew Blush Trio Set

This adorable pint-sized set includes three of Saie’s ultra-pigmented liquid blushes, in travel-ready sizes. While these blushes definitely come with a burst of color, they’re incredibly easy to work with, and it’s always good for a girl to have options.

$30, shop now

Saie. Saie

Olaplex Hair Repair Treatment Kit

For the girl on the go: Travel-size versions of all the Olaplex products that help strengthen and revitalize hair.

$62, shop now

Olaplex. Olaplex

Les Exclusifs de Chanel Eaux de Parfum Discovery Set

Fragrance gifts can be tricky, but if you’re not sure about her signature scent, the key is to give her a few options. This luxurious discovery set from Chanel includes five of the French house’s most iconic fragrances from the Les Exclusifs de Chanel collection: 1957, Comète, Sycomore, Coromandel and Gardénia.

$830, shop now

Chanel. Chanel

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

When it comes to the best hair tools for a salon-worthy blowout and styling, you can’t go wrong with Dyson. Elevate her haircare routine with the acclaimed Dyson hair dryer, available in a lovely shade of blue and featuring five styler attachments, plus a convenient carryall case.

$349.99, shop now

Dyson. Dyson

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Gentle Fluidity Gold Eau de Parfum

There’s no better compliment than being told that you smell fantastic, and you’re guaranteed to have people ask what you’re wearing when you spritz on Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Gentle Fluidity Gold Eau de Parfum. While the perfumer’s Baccarat Rouge tends to get most of the attention, I’m a firm believer that this is the unsung hero of the line-up—just watch; it’ll become her signature scent in no time.

$265, SHOP NOW

Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Maison Francis Kurkdjian

U Beauty The Lip Duo

U Beauty’s plasma lip balms are quite possibly the most luxurious lip treatments out there. They come in a ton of different hues, and both plump and contour—this two-product gift set includes the universal clear hue and a warm nude-mauve-ish shade.

$98, shop now

U Beauty. U Beauty

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Dreams Come True Gift Set

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a beauty maven who doesn’t adore Charlotte Tilbury’s iconic Pillow Talk collection, and this exclusive, ultra-glam makeup gift set includes no less than 14 full-size products from the line, including highlighters, blush wands, lipsticks and mascara.

$390, shop now

Charlotte Tilbury. Charlotte Tilbury

Rhode The Rhode Kit

Hailey Bieber’s viral skincare company debuted a four-piece kit that includes all the viral products: the glazing milk, peptide fluid, moisturizing cream and pineapple refresh cleanser. Plus, it comes with an adorable bubble bag to store the essentials.

$117, shop now

Rhode. Rhode

Saltair Driftwood Trio

Whether she’s all about a no-fuss routine or cannot begin or end the day without a 10-step regimen, she’ll adore this trio of Saltair’s bodycare essentials: a driftwood-scented body wash, body butter and serum deodorant.

$40.50, shop now

Saltair. Saltair

Sisley Paris Black Rose Cream Mask

Who doesn’t love a good face mask? Sisley’s ultra-hydrating nighttime black rose mask is the secret to the softest skin yet.

$215, shop now

Sisley Paris. Sisley

MZ Wallace Black Lacquer Beauty Organizer

If she needs a new toiletry or makeup bag, gift her this MZ Wallace beauty organizer.

$165, shop now

MZ Wallace. MZ Wallace

Corpus Naturals The Mini Trio

Deodorant can, in fact, be a chic gift. This three-piece Corpus set allows you to select your favorite of the brand’s natural deodorant scents, which smell just as lovely as a perfume.

$36, shop now

Corpus Naturals. Corpus Naturals

Guerlain Abeille Royale Repair Four-Piece Skincare Set

Guerlain’s skincare gift set is composed of the brand’s best-sellers including lotion toner, oil serum, anti-aging serum and day cream, all infused with honey, hyaluronic acid and the brand’s exclusive, sustainably-sourced royal jelly.

$305, shop now

Guerlain. Guerlain

Glasshouse Fragrances Winter Wonderland Candle

This festive, limited edition candle is the perfect gift idea for that one friend who has been listening to holiday music nonstop since Halloween.

$110, shop now

Glasshouse Fragrances. Glasshouse Fragrances

La Mer The Essentials by La Mer

You’re sure to win major points when she unwraps this four-product La Mer skincare set, with the brand’s new Essence Foaming Cleanser, Treatment Lotion, Eye Concentrate and Moisturizing Soft Cream, for the ultimate hydrating, soothing, brightening, firming and moisturizing routine.

$170, shop now

La Mer. La Mer

Indie Lee Hydration Heroes

For the clean beauty enthusiast: A four-piece set from Indie Lee, including a coconut citrus scrub, vitamin C serum, cleansing balm and retinol cream.

$166, shop now

Indie Lee. Indie Lee

Tarte Sweet Indulgences Maracuja Juicy Lips Vault

Why get her just one lip gloss when you can gift her a five-product set with plumping lip oils, lip gloss and a lip vinyl?

$49, shop now

Tarte. Tarte

Joanna Vargas Glow to Go Mask Set

The frequent jet-setter will appreciate this five-pack set of masks that are perfect for those constantly on the go.

$75, shop now

Joanna Vargas.

Hourglass Vegan Face & Eye Travel Brush Set

Replace her tired old makeup brushes with this travel-ready set from Hourglass. The collection of seven vegan brushes (foundation, concealer, powder, ambient lighting, setting, shadow and blender) comes in a chic faux-leather case for optimal organization.

$340, shop now

Hourglass. Hourglass

Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream Set

Korean skincare brand Sulwhasoo consistently prioritizes ingredients like restorative ginseng extracts, which are on full display in this rejuvenating set. It’s all about an anti-aging routine, with a full-sized rejuvenating cream in addition to two deluxe serums and an eye cream.

$260, shop now

Sulwhasoo. Sulwhasoo

Eve Lom Award Winners Set

Elevate their skincare routine with this selection of Eve Lom’s award-winning products, complete with a cleanser, oil, mask, retinol serum, moisture cream and muslin cleansing cloth, for the ultimate refreshing ritual.

$160, shop now

Eve Lom. Eve Lom

Phlur Somebody Wood

There’s a reason Phlur’s fragrances have developed such a cult following—they really are that good, and she won’t be able to resist this bouquet of bergamot, saffron, sandalwood and amber.

$99, shop now

Phlur.

Jones Road Miracle Balm

The aptly-named Miracle Balm from Bobbi Brown’s brand, Jones Road, will appeal to the minimalist beauty lover.

$40, shop now

Jones Road. Jones Road.

Chantecaille Botanical Mask Gift Set

Upgrade her self-care routine with this mask trio from Chantecaille, which includes a smoothing mask, detox mask and cooling mask.

$410, shop now

Chantecaille. Chantecaille

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Shimmering Body Oil

If she loves Baccarat Rouge 540 but either already has the perfume or just wants to explore other products, gift her Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s limited-edition body oil in the very same scent.

$215, shop now

Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Tata Harper Holiday Hydration Boost

Tata Harper’s three-product gift set gives that extra boost of hydration that is so needed during this frigid, dry time of year when skin feels like it could crack right open. It includes the brand’s Hydrating Floral Mask, Hydrating Floral Essence and Crème Riche, and comes in the prettiest flowery gift box.

$320, shop now

Tata Harper. Tata Harper

Therabody TheraFace Pro

The latest face device from Therabody is perfect for the tech-loving wellness and beauty connoisseur; it uses a combination of microcurrent, LED light therapy, percussion and cleansing to treat, nourish and relax the face muscles and complexion.

$420, shop now

Therabody.

Makeup by Mario Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette: Moonlight

Makeup by Mario’s Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette tends to sell out fast, but if you can get your hands on one, you’re sure to gain major points with the beauty and makeup lover in your life. It includes matte, shimmery and metallic neutral hues for a dreamy midnight look.

$69, SHOP NOW

Makeup by Mario. Makeup by Mario

RéVive Masque Des Yeux Instant De-Puffing Gel Eye Mask

Even if your loved one isn’t getting the best night’s sleep, you can still offer the look of rest thanks to this six-pack of hydrogel eye masks, which soothe, hydrate and refresh to help reduce puffiness and the look of fine lines and dark circles.

$100, SHOP NOW

RéVive. RéVive

Augustinus Bader The Skin Renewal System

Augustinus Bader comes with a sky-high price tag, but it is, in fact, worth it. This set features the brand’s beloved The Rich Cream, The Essence and The Cream Cleansing Gel, which are packed with the brand’s exclusive TFC8 complex for repair and renewal.

$200, SHOP NOW

Augustinus Bader. Augustinus Bader

Mario Badescu Mini Mist Collection

Gift her Mario Badescu’s cult-favorite mists, but don’t stop at just one—this beauty gift set includes five variations: rosewater, lavender, cucumber, orange blossom and coconut water.

$26, shop now

Mario Badescu. Mario Badescu

Tatcha Dewy Cleanse + Hydrate Duo

Help her take care of her skin while on-the-go with this Tatcha set, with a soothing cleanser and hydrating moisturizer.

$29, shop now

Tatcha. Tatcha

Hermès Les Mains Hermès Nail Enamel

Is there anything more unapologetically lavish than Hermès nail polish? If she’s all about nail care, treat her to this luxurious nail hue, whether she wants to give herself an at-home manicure or bring it to the salon.

$62, shop now

Hermès. Hermès

NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit

If she doesn’t yet have a NuFace, gift her this entire starter system set, which includes the microcurrent facial toning device in addition to all the extra brushes and creams.

$395, shop now

NuFace. NuFace

Supergoop Beach Day Set

Sunscreen is the most important part of any skincare routine, which is why any giftee will appreciate this three-piece set with Supergoop’s SPFs.

$84, shop now

Supergoop. Supergoop

Caudalie Moisturizing Hand Cream Trio

Keep dry, cracked hands at bay thanks to this adorable three-lotion set.

$16, shop now

Caudalie. Caudalie
]]> 1459254
 The Most Refined Luxury Gifts for the Modern Gentleman https://observer.com/list/holiday-gift-guide-ideas-for-men/ Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:15:03 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1456224 The holiday season is just around the corner, but don’t fret if you haven’t procured the best gift for the most special man in your life just yet. While men can be notoriously difficult to shop for— especially when it seems like he already has everything—it’s not an impossible task, so there’s no need to panic buy him yet another tie that’s just going to sit in the back of his closet, collecting dust.

Instead, treat him to a holiday gift that is neither entirely fanciful nor solely practical, but somewhere in between—a present that you know he’ll actually use, but is still a splurge-worthy, special gift that he wouldn’t buy himself. Most importantly, take his personal interests into account when scoping out presents; it’s the key to a truly great gift idea. Whether he’s into all things tech, loves to be in the kitchen, is a constant jet-setter or simply adores the finer things in life, we’ve got you covered with a carefully curated list of the best men’s gifts for the most festive time of year. From leather goods and sumptuous cashmere sweater to suede shoes and elegant cologne, here’s what to buy the most dapper and debonair man this holiday season.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Best Luxury Gift Guide for the Man Who Has Everything

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Balance Wireless Speaker

Unlike most tech gadgets, Bang & Olufsen’s minimalist speaker won’t ruin the look of a room. This sleek, wireless speaker easily fits on a bookshelf, against a wall or on a small table. The aesthetic is inspired by interior objects, and it doesn’t skip on function, either—this is a truly top-of-the-line tech gift, with specs that promise it’ll optimize the sound experience based on its location in the room, as it essentially adapts to the acoustic surroundings. Along with Bluetooth speaker capabilities, it’s also equipped to work with Apple AirPlay, Spotify, Google Cast and more.

$3,650, SHOP NOW

Bang & Olufsen. Bang & Olufsen

The Seven Continents The Jack Jean in Kobe

For the serious denim enthusiast: The Seven Continents’ jeans, made in L.A. from 100 percent Japanese selvedge denim. A relaxed fit that’s deceptively simple, with every seemingly tiny detail carefully plotted out, including a subtle curve at the inseam.

$595, shop now

The Seven Continents. The Seven Continents

John Lobb Lawry New Standard Leather Chelsea Boots

The John Lobb Lawry shoe is a classic for a reason—a timeless Chelsea boot that outlives trends, with soft yet quietly structured leather, rubber soles and a slip-on tab

$2,500, shop now

John Lobb. John Lobb

Sease 2.0 Cotton-Blend Corduroy Baseball Cap

A regular old baseball cap just isn’t going to cut it this season, which is where this plush corduroy hat comes into play. Minimalist but still a statement, and as at home on the city streets as sipping a hot toddy après-ski.

$480, shop now

Sease. Sease

The Elder Statesman Shawl-Collar Cashmere Cardigan

Forget everything you think you know about men’s cardigans. This cashmere sweater from The Elder Statesman is less frumpy grandfather and more luxury-loving dapper gentleman.

$2,195, shop now

The Elder Statesman. The Elder Statesman

Wilson Showman Leather Tennis Bag

If he loves nothing more than heading down to the court for a set or two, gift him a beautifully crafted leather tennis bag. This classic piece from Wilson features a built-in racket pocket as well as a main storage compartment, with an adjustable and removable strap.

$598, shop now

Wilson. Wilson

Tumi International Carry-On

Treat him to a new suitcase that’s both polished and practical, like Tumi’s sleek aluminum carry-on. It’s the perfect accessory for his jet-set wardrobe.

$1,295, Shop now

Tumi. Tumi

Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille All Over Body Spray

Instead of the usual shaving essentials or aftershave, gift him this lush Tom Ford body spray—you might even want to borrow it.

$100, SHOP NOW

Tom Ford. Tom Ford

Aperture Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Gift Box

If you’re trying to find the perfect gift for the vino lover in your life, look no further than this three-bottle gift set from Aperture Cellars. Made in Sonoma, California, Aperture focuses on Bordeaux-style wines, and these cabernets do not disappoint. The gift box comes with three bottles of limited production, single vineyard cabs, along with a gift card and custom box—if you’re lucky, he’ll crack open a bottle to share.

$500, shop now

Aperture. Aperture

Ralph Lauren Home Sutton Chess Gift Set

Game night just got that much more exciting, thanks to this sleek Ralph Lauren chess set. Made using both walnut wood and carbon-fiber leather, this gorgeous set features polished nickel and carbon-coated game pieces and comes with a lid for storage, though we don’t see why you wouldn’t want to display it all times.

$2,995, shop now

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

G/Fore Men’s G/18 Golf Shoe

For the golf lover, a fresh pair of golf shoes that are both innovative, technical and, shockingly enough, not an eyesore! G/Fore’s lace-ups are made with a waterproof T.P.U. for extra protection, along with three levels of grip and traction.

$250, shop now

G/Fore. G/Fore

Naadam Off-Duty Cashmere Hoodie

For the man who has everything, a grungy sweatshirt won’t do. Instead, a cashmere hoodie is the cozy and plush sweater he’ll turn to whenever he needs another layer.

$188, SHOP NOW

Naadam. Naadam

Officine Creative Quentin 20 Leather Backpack

A backpack, but for grown-ups. Handcrafted in Italy, Officine Creative’s brown leather backpack already boasts a rich patina that will continue to develop with time and use. It’s just as suitable for a day at the office as it is to use as a personal bag when traveling; it even has a trolley strap to slide onto his suitcase.

$1,130, SHOP NOW

Officine Creative. Officine Creative

Gucci Jordaan Leather Loafers

While admittedly not the most inventive of gifts, every well-dressed man will appreciate a fresh pair of Gucci’s classic loafers.

$1,050, shop now

Gucci. Gucci

Oliver Peoples Rueny D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

These Oliver Peoples frames are classic, but not boring. Composed of glossy black acetate, with silver-tone temple pins, dark grey lenses and plenty of attitude.

$515, shop now

Oliver Peoples. Oliver Peoples

Carrière Frères Chestnut Candle

A festive candle immediately creates a holiday atmosphere, like this brand-new chestnut votive from Carrière Frères, with notes of cedar, sandalwood and dried fruits.

$63, shop now

Carrière Frères. Carrière Frères

Transcendence Coffee The Holiday Bundle

Add a little festive cheer to his everyday coffee routine with these delectable holiday syrups—even the most traditional of coffee drinkers will appreciate these.

$59, shop now

Transcendence Coffee. Transcendence Coffee

Brunello Cucinelli Washed Suede Sneakers

For those occasions when an athletic sneaker simply won’t do: A sophisticated suede Brunello Cucinelli sneaker, such as these made-in-Italy lace-ups, is a stylish addition to any shoe collection.

$1,150, shop now

Brunello Cucinelli. Brunello Cucinelli

Baccarat Harmonie Single Old Fashion Tumblers, Set of 2

A pair of oh-so-luxurious Baccarat tumblers, for the man takes pride in his meticulously curated bar cart.

$320, shop now

Baccarat. Baccarat

Eberjey Henry Tencel Modal Long PJ Set

He deserves a plush sleepwear moment, and will have the sweetest dreams in this ultra-soft Eberjey pajama set.

$168, shop now

Eberjey. Eberjey

Taschen Ultimate Collector Watches

The passionate horologist will dive right into this new Taschen tome, which celebrates the art of watchmaking.

$250, shop now

Taschen. Taschen

Montblanc Meisterstück Platinum-Coated LeGrand Rollerball

Forget any preconceived notions you have about gifting a pen, because Montblanc’s delightfully extravagant platinum-coated Meisterstück is the stylus to beat all other writing instruments. A rollerball that just oozes sophistication, it’s an item that you already know he’ll need to use pretty much daily.

$605, shop now

Montblanc. Montblanc

Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige Ultra

Upgrade his grooming routine with the new Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige Ultra, an electric shaver with five different modes for the cleanest shave, no matter what.

$330, shop now

Philips. Philips

David Yurman Streamline Cushion Cufflinks

A minimalist pair of sleek, sterling silver cufflinks is sure to be appreciated. He’ll wear them to all those upcoming special occasions, and they’re also a great stocking stuffer.

$375, SHOP NOW

David Yurman. David Yurman

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG

For the man who appreciates an Italian wine: Banfi Brunello di Montalcino, which is aged for a minimum of four years, including two years in oak barrels, with notes of violet, vanilla and licorice. Full yet soft, with warm spices—perfect to pair with red meat and aged cheese, which is ideal for this time of year.

$75, SHOP NOW

Banfi Brunello. Banfi Brunello

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Watch

If you really want to pull out all the stops this year, gift him a luxury watch that he’ll wear forever. A Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece is the epitome of Swiss-made precision —a classic yet decidedly modern watch that combines technical expertise with timeless (see what we did there?) aesthetics.

$10,400, shop now

Jaeger-LeCoultre. Jaeger-LeCoultre

Brunello Cucinelli
Men’s Leather Double-Zip Toiletry Case

Yes, a Brunello Cucinelli toiletry bag is a total extravagance, but that’s why you’re splurging on this for the most special guy, right? Unlike most men’s dopp bags, this one actually offers plenty of space for all his on-the-go grooming essentials—in fact, it’s so useful that he’ll probably end up keeping his must-haves in it, even when he’s not traveling.

$1,870, shop now

Brunello Cucinelli. Brunello Cucinelli

Montblanc Men’s Sartorial Large Briefcase

Who says business has to be boring? This Montblanc briefcase is made of plush full-grain leather, with an adjustable shoulder strap, two main compartments and top carry handles, adding a dapper edge to his workday ensemble.

$2,150, shop now

Montblanc. Montblanc

Society 6 Amber Dusk Jigsaw Puzzle

If he loves a good puzzle, a custom jigsaw is such a sweet and wholesome gift.

$40, shop now

Society 6. Society 6

Barbour Ashby Wax Jacket

The quintessential waxed jacket, this Barbour coat is a winter layering essential. A soft matte finish, subtle tailoring, tartan lining and a corduroy collar, for an easy, lived-in look.

$398, shop now

Barbour. Barbour

Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe

Sometimes, a guy just wants to lounge, okay? And he’ll live in this plush bathrobe while hanging around at home this winter.

$119, shop now

Brooklinen. Brooklinen

Vuori Ponto Performance Pant

Speaking of lounging: these ultra-soft joggers are a more fashionable alternative to everyday sweats, but somehow even more comfortable.

$98, shop now

Vuori. Vuori

Agnelle Men’s Darius Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves

Gloves are key this time of year. A brown leather pair with cashmere lining will keep him warm and protect him from the dropping temperatures and increasing wind chill without ruining his whole look.

$390, shop now

Agnelle. Agnelle

Ralph Lauren Home Cable Cashmere Throw Blanket

A plush Ralph Lauren cashmere cable knit blanket is a forever piece of home decor that instantly adds an extra layer of cozy to his abode.

$595, shop now

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

Zegna Ribbed Oasi Cashmere Beanie

For the man who eschews logos but welcomes luxury: Zegna’s 100 percent cashmere hat, which seamlessly takes him from a 6 a.m. coffee meeting to dinner at Polo Bar.

$550, shop now

Zegna. Zegna

Funboy Retro Snowmobile Snow Sled

Snowy days are soon to be upon us, and what better way to celebrate the coming wintry wonderland than with a playful new inflatable sled?

$99, shop now

Funboy. Funboy


Clase Azul Tequila Ultra

If he’s a tequila lover, you can’t go wrong with any of Clase Azul’s ultra-luxe options. Since he deserves the best, splurge on the brand’s Tequila Ultra, which is aged for five years and comes in a lavish decanter that’s decorated with platinum, silver and 24-karat gold.

$1,999.99, shop now

Clase Azul. Casa Azul

Apple AirPods Max

A fancy new pair of headphones with noise-cancelling capabilities and Bluetooth technology, offering 20 hours of listening time, is sure to impress.

$499, SHOP NOW

Apple. Apple

Wüsthof Classic Knife Block, Set of 9

If he loves to cook, gift him this chef-worthy set of knives, made with high-carbon steel blades for the sharpest and most precise cuts. Yes, chef!

$685, shop now

Wüsthof. Williams Sonoma

Chanel Bleu de Chanel Parfum Twist and Spray Set

Gifting cologne can be tricky, but if he’s considering a new scent, you can’t go wrong with Chanel Bleu, and this particular holiday set includes a twist-and-spray bottle so he can take it with him on the go.

$220, SHOP NOW

Chanel. Chanel

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Card Case

Update his wallet with this Bottega cardholder, made of the highest-quality Italian leather—this is the real quiet luxury.

$420, shop now

Bottega Veneta. Bottega Veneta

Lafco Clary Sage Absolute Diffuser

A diffuser is nice, but even nicer when it comes in the form of this handblown glass vessel, which will scent his home with the loveliest clary sage fragrance.

$275, shop now

Lafco. Lafco

De’Longhi Dinamica Plus Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The coffee lover will adore this fancy automatic espresso machine, which easily crafts 24 barista-worthy espresso and coffee drinks with just the touch of a button. It comes with a built-in frother and even has iced coffee technology.

$1,499.95, shop now

De’Longhi. Williams Sonoma

Hoka Clifton 10 Sneaker

For the everyday casual runner, a fresh pair of sneakers to cushion his next jog outside.

$155, shop now

Hoka. Hoka

Rimowa Classic Check-In Large Suitcase

The jet-setter always loves new luggage, but especially when it comes in the form of a Rimowa aluminum suitcase. If he doesn’t have a dependable checked bag in his travel wardrobe just yet, this is sure to do the trick.

$1,950, shop now

Rimowa. Rimowa

Aerin Faux Shagreen Bamboo Bar Set

If he considers himself something of an amateur mixologist, gift him this elegant bar set, which comes with a jigger, bottle opener, strainer, corkscrew and stirrer.

$3,900, SHOp NOw

Aerin. Aerin

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Extrait de Parfum

Present him with a truly indulgent fragrance this holiday season. While Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Eau de Parfum is always a good choice, this Extrait de Parfum is even more lush; it’s more concentrated (and pricier, but worth it), with notes of amber, rose, violet and oud wood.

$475, shop now

Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Loro Piana Cashmere Rollneck Sweater

Even the most well-dressed man will be so impressed by this ridiculously plush Loro Piana turtleneck sweater. Knitted in Italy from the finest cashmere, with a rollneck and relaxed dropped shoulders.

$4,010, shop now

Loro Piana. Loro Piana

Fotile Countertop Steam Oven ChefCubii Series

It turns out that kitchen appliances can, in fact, be good and rather luxurious gifts—just look at this four-in-one countertop oven, which is perfect for those that don’t have a ton of space, as it functions as a convection oven, air-fryer, dehydrator and steamer.

$599, shop now

Fotile. Fotile

Anderson’s 3.5cm Woven Leather Belt

A woven leather belt adds a more casual, low-key feel than the standard smooth leather, but doesn’t skip on style.

$260, SHOP NOW

Anderson’s. Anderson's

Therabody Theragun Pro Plus by Therabody

If your loved one is all about wellness and fitness, look no further than the Theragun Pro Plus, which features percussive therapy, LED light therapy, vibration therapy, heat therapy and breathwork for various treatment options that will help ease muscles and joints.

$649.99, shop now

Therabody. Therabody

Apple Watch Hermès

When it comes to high-end gadgets, it’s hard to beat the Hermès smartwatch. It has all the tech-y features of the latest Apple Watch, from heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking, but with an exclusive Hermès face and band.

From $1,299, shop now

Apple. Apple

Ooni Koda 16 Gas Powered Pizza Oven

Pizza night just got so much better thanks to Ooni’s outdoor pizza oven, so you can have the best pies all from the comfort of your own home.

$649, shop now

Ooni. Ooni

Burberry Kensington Heritage Mid-Length Trench Coat

A Burberry trench is a timeless piece of outerwear that transcends trends.

$2,850, SHOP NOW

Burberry. Burberry

Chateau Montelena 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Even the most snobbish of oenophiles will appreciate this bottle of red, and it’s always a good idea to bring vino to any holiday fête. Known for winning the 1976 Judgment of Paris competition, Napa’s Chateau Montelena never misses when it comes to a spectacular bottle, and the 2021 estate cabernet is no different. Bold yet balanced, with notes of graphite and cedar—a wine that he could open up right away or let rest for a special occasion.

$200, shop now

Chateau Montelena. Chateau Montelena

Bennett Winch Logo-Debossed Full-Grain Leather Weekend Bag

Replace his tired old travel bag with this gorgeous brown leather weekender from British brand Bennett Winch. Crafted from full-grain leather, the material will eventually develop a unique patina. A large main interior compartment and separated sections for shoes, towels and more aid in organization—perfect for the travel enthusiast.

$2,950, shop now

Bennett Winch. Bennett Winch

Augustinus Bader The On the Go Refresh Set with TFC8

Don’t forget that men love their skincare, too, and you can’t do much better than this indulgent Augustinus Bader gift set, complete with two moisturizers and an eye cream.

$150, shop now

Augustinus Bader. Augustinus Bader

Vilebrequin Men’s Solid Swim Shorts

Planning a trip? A fresh pair of crisp navy swim trunks are a must for any beach getaway.

$250, shop now

Vilebrequin. Vilebrequin
]]> 1456224
 Jet Set: Long-Haul Essentials https://observer.com/list/jet-set-best-long-haul-flight-travel-essentials/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1594717 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. Whether you’re already packing for your next adventure or still in the early planning stages, we’re here to help with all your jet-setting needs. Long-haul flights are a necessary evil of travel, especially if you’re the kind of adventurer who is always eager to explore far-off locales. Unfortunately, air travel seems to get more dismal by the minute, thanks to rapidly shrinking seats, diminishing amenities and a general lack of basic decency and decorum from all involved—and that’s before even taking into account the dumpster fire airport situation in the U.S. at the moment.

The unfortunate truth is that a business class ticket is the actual best way to improve an in-flight experience, but alas, some of us must accept being squished like sardines in the back of the plane. The key to surviving a long flight, whether it’s a red-eye or a seemingly endless daytime journey, is to arrive prepared with the essentials that will make your trip that much more comfortable. Yes, you should try to finagle your preferred aisle or window, but no matter where you’re seated, there are a few items that will make the hours spent above the clouds at least a little less agonizing. If you’re looking for foot hammocks and inflatable pillows, move right along—this list sticks with items that can be easily stowed in your personal bag (I recommend Calpak’s Luka Duffel) and used on any flight. And don’t forget the snacks, reading material, movie downloads and your sleeping aid of choice. From a contoured sleep mask and hydrating floral essence to a cashmere wrap and comfortable headphones, these are the long-haul must-haves we’re loving and coveting right now.

Long-Haul Must-Haves

Dore & Rose Aura Sleep Mask

A sleep mask isn’t exactly a revolutionary recommendation, but it remains one of the most crucial items in any traveler’s carry-on arsenal. More specifically, a sleep mask with a contoured shape that doesn’t irritate sensitive eyes, and also manages to keep out all the light. So even if you have that seatmate who simply refuses to turn off the overhead, you’ll still get a good night’s rest—or at least a few hours without a blaring light in your eyes.

$71, shop now

Dore & Rose. Dore & Rose

Comrad Compression Socks

The amount of time I spend talking about the wonders of compression socks is getting somewhat embarrassing, but I’m not planning on stopping anytime soon. For those of us with horrible circulation and an unfortunate tendency to retain water and swell an unhinged amount, these are an utter blessing. I always keep a pair (I’m partial to these Comrads as of late) in my personal bag, and usually change into them right before boarding the flight. You’ll thank me when you don’t wake up mid-flight and fear that your foot might actually burst out of your shoes.

$34, shop now

Comrad. Comrad

Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence

I’m not a proponent of a full skincare routine in the sky, but I do love any product that will keep my skin from feeling like it’s going to crack mid-flight. A travel-sized essence in a spritz bottle is ideal for a little skin pick-me-up, because no, you cannot, under any circumstances, use that water in the plane bathroom. I love Tata Harper’s hydrating floral essence, to add a touch of luxury to your in-flight experience—even when you’re flying in seat 58F.

$12, shop now

Tata Harper. Tata Harper

Joanna Czech Skincare The Cleansing Wipes

I’m usually not a huge fan of a face wipe, but I make an exception on travel days, especially during any red-eye. A cleansing wipe will get rid of any extra makeup and the unfortunate bacteria and germs that are a part of travel. While you could use any face wipes, I’ve unfortunately become rather obsessed with these Joanna Czech cleansing wipes—they’re soothing, non-irritating, and also, similarly to the Tata Harper spray, add a little grandeur to the back of the plane.

$30, shop now

Joanna Czech. Joanna Czech

Mersea Travel Wrap

I always bring some kind of a scarf or wrap when embarking on a long-haul flight, because not only am I a germaphobe who internally panics whenever I take the plastic off the flight-offered blankets, but I want something to cuddle up in at all times. Mersea’s travel wrap has quickly become my go-to; the cashmere is inherently luxurious, and I love that you can wear it as a chic wrap once you get to your final destination.

$298, shop now

Mersea. Mersea

Master & Dynamic MW75
Active Noise-Canceling Wireless Headphones

I’m not a headphone snob in any way, shape or form, but I do recommend bringing a pair of over-ear noise-canceling headphones when you’ve got a big travel day ahead, and particularly on overnight flights. Yes, they allow you to hear whatever you’re listening to better, but the noise-canceling is the key component here. I’ve been using my old Master & Dynamics for at least six years; these are the newer model, with the expected noise-canceling, along with a very chic aluminum, tempered glass and lambskin aesthetic, Bluetooth capabilities and 32 hours of listening time. Pro tip—I also bring my trusty wired headphones, just in case you’re having any connectivity issues or your headphones die.

$599, shop now

Master & Dynamic. Master & Dynamic

Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Flex Straw Cap

A water bottle isn’t the most thrilling item on a list, but it’s no less important. I am constantly terrified of dehydration, and personally despise the sad, cap-less cup of water you’re handed when not flying in a premium cabin. I always bring a good water bottle, and it’s usually my trusty old Hydro Flask—this is another newer version, but I like the straw cap, and it’s just the right size.

$44.95, shop now

HydroFlask. HydroFlask

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

The beauty items on this list are less about vanity, and more about comfort. A good lip balm is a nonnegotiable on a long-haul flight; that cabin air is painfully drying. You won’t find me without a tube of Aquaphor, but when I want to be a little fancier, I like Laneige’s lip balm.

$19, shop now

Laneige. Laneige
]]> 1594717
 The Best Holiday Gifts for the Woman Who Already Has Everything https://observer.com/list/holiday-gift-ideas-for-women/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:37:38 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1456090 Finding a suitable holiday gift for your loved ones isn’t always the easiest of tasks, but it’s even more challenging when it comes to securing a present for the woman who seems like she already has everything. This is the woman who is almost impossibly stylish, and who doesn’t bother keeping track of fleeting fads—she starts trends, instead, and she already knows what she likes, anyway.

Don’t go into full panic mode just because you’re feeling uninspired by the bland options out there—we promise, there are still plenty of great gifts that will surely live up to her impeccable standards. These are the elevated presents that stand a step above the rest—the luxurious and sophisticated gifts that will impress even the most discerning woman this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for your wife, mother, sister, daughter or best friend, we’ve got you covered with the glamorous and unique gifts that she’ll both adore and appreciate. Is she always showing off the latest tech gadgets? Perhaps she’s a total gourmand. A literary enthusiast? A fashionista, through and through? No matter her interests, you’re in the right place. From elegant baubles and fanciful footwear to indulgent cashmere and tasteful accessories, these are the best gift ideas for the woman who has everything.

Check out all of Observer’s curated luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Thoughtful Gift Ideas for the Women Who Have Everything

Aerin Shagreen Mahjong Set

If she somehow hasn’t jumped on the mahjong train just yet, this wildly over-the-top shagreen set should do the trick. Brass hardware and engraved melamine tiles complete this sophisticated set, for the most lavish game night yet.

$1,750, shop now

Aerin. Aerin

Aspinal of London Women’s Cashmere Lined Leather Gloves

A cashmere-lined leather glove is as luxurious as it is practical. The material adds an innately polished note to any outfit, while the less-expected fig color is a welcome break from the usual black. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips are just the cherry on top.

$240, shop now

Aspinal of London. Aspinal of London

Christofle Mood Party Flatware Set

For the consummate hostess: a 24-piece Christofle flatware set, in the iconic egg-shaped stainless steel case.

$1,400, shop now

Christofle. Christofle

Irene Neuwirth Classic Studded Halo Pavé Oval Mixed Ring 18K Gold

A one-of-a-kind ring for a one-of-a-kind person. Irene Neuwirth’s 18-karat yellow and white gold ring features a large rainbow moonstone surrounded by pearl and diamond accents—a statement, surely, but also perfectly wearable for a little luxury everyday.

$10,020, shop now

Irene Neuwirth. Irene Neuwirth

Gabriela Hearst Paola Clutch

Crafted in Italy, Gabriela Hearst’s smooth leather clutch is the vintage-inspired handbag she didn’t know she needed. An elongated shape further emphasizes that retro feel, while an optional shoulder bag is available for when she wants a hands-free purse.

$3,500, shop now

Gabriela Hearst. Gabriela Hearst

Louis Vuitton Nice BB

For the woman whose bathroom looks like an Architectural Digest spread, only the finest vanity case will do. And after all, Louis Vuitton’s classic toiletry bag is perhaps the most sophisticated way to store all the beauty essentials.

$1,420, shop now

Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton

Ginori 1735 Il Viaggio di Nettuno Bowl

For the woman who loves unique keepsakes at home, a Ginori 1735 porcelain bowl inspired by Greek and Roman mythology and decorated with nautical-esque designs. It’s a dining piece that has plenty of personality, but doesn’t distract from the larger tablescape.

$170, shop now

Ginori 1735. Ginori 1735

Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Diamonds by the Yard Bracelet

Tiffany’s Elsa Peretti collection has serious staying power. The enduring appeal of Diamonds by the Yard, in particular, is unmatched, and this elegant diamond-embellished sterling silver bracelet is one of those rare pieces that she’ll wear day after day.

$1,400, shop now

Tiffany & Co

Frette Curly Shearling Slippers





Don’t skip over the slippers portion of this gift guide, because we found a pair that is hard to beat. Frette might be best known for linens and bedding, but these plush shearling slippers shouldn’t be missed—they even have a rubber sole.

$525, shop now

Frette. Frette

Tata Harper Holiday Glow Kit

Even the most diligent of skincare aficionados will appreciate this six-piece Tata Harper gift box, which includes the brand’s cleanser, serum, mask, essence, moisturizer and a face towelette.

$475, shop now

Tata Harper. Tata Harper

Citizens of Humanity Genova Low Rise Boot

These aren’t your average jeans—no, these Citizens of Humanity bootcut pants are crafted from a cashmere blend, because plain denim just won’t cut it when it comes to holiday gifting. A low-rise waist, ultra-comfortable fit and full-length leg complete the look.

$248, shop now

Citizens of Humanity. Citizens of Humanity

Ralph Lauren Collection RL 888 Box Calfskin Top Handle

Ralph Lauren’s top-handle brown leather bag is a timeless classic that she’ll pick up year after year. Named in honor of the designer’s women’s flagship on Madison Avenue, its bold structure and silhouette is inspired by the city’s architecture.

$2,500, SHOP NOW

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

Smythson Panama Medium Backgammon Case

This might be the most sophisticated backgammon board out there, which means it should absolutely be sitting on her coffee table.

$2,795, SHOP NOW

Smythson. Smythson

Mersea Voyageur The Luxy Cashmere Wrap

Is there anything better than essentially swaddling yourself in a plush cashmere wrap? Mersea’s version is a go-to for the ultimate jet-setter to cuddle up on a plane, but also happens to be incredibly stylish to wear on a daily basis.

$298, shop now

Mersea. Mersea

Baccarat Flora Biseau Bud Base

The woman who loves to keep her home filled to the brim with fresh florals is always in need of a gorgeous new vase—and especially with the holidays coming up, when she’s sure to receive countless bouquets.

$200, SHOP NOW

Baccarat. Baccarat

La Prairie Pure Gold Revitalising Essence

La Prairie is the gold standard in skincare, and the brand’s new revitalizing essence, created for those experiencing skin issues due to hormonal changes, takes that title to heart. The formula is packed with La Prairie’s advanced pure gold diffusion system, combining a cellular complex, gold and peptide-powered complex and time-released glabridin, which work together to boost collagen and fortify the skin barrier, helping to revive and boost radiance. It’s potent but non-irritating, and despite its powerhouse ingredients, is super lightweight.

$530, shop now

La Prairie La Prairie

Loewe Leather Belt

Sometimes, you just need to upgrade a classic. A slim black leather belt is a capsule wardrobe must-have.

$460, SHOP NOW

Loewe. Net-a-Porter

Williams Sonoma Infused Olive Oil Gift Set

As a firm believer that olive oil is always a much-appreciated gift for the hostess, I was immediately taken with this four-piece set. It includes four delectable infused olive oils, and she doesn’t even need to be a gourmand to appreciate it.

$44.95, SHOP NOW

Williams Sonoma. Williams Sonoma

Brunello Cucinelli Alpaca Blend Scarf

The temperatures are starting to drop, and even if she already has an array of outerwear, you simply can’t go wrong with a ridiculously plush scarf from Brunello Cucinelli . It’s the luxurious and even, dare we say, practical, winter accessory she’ll cuddle up in every single day.

$1,350, SHOP NOW

Brunello Cucinelli. Net-a-Porter

Eileen West Villa Blanca Knit Ballet Nightgown

A simple yet chic white nightgown is the most elegant sleepwear out there. Crafted from 100 percent cotton sheer jersey, this gown is embellished with heirloom lace.

$125, SHOP NOW

Eileen West. Eileen West

Lalique Anemone Flower Sculpture

For the longtime Lalique lover: One of the brand’s delicate, handcrafted flower sculptures. Big enough to make a statement, small enough to quietly adorn an entry table.

$450, shop now

Lalique. Lalique

Krewe Margaret Sunglasses in Venezia

If she loves a good pair of sunglasses but is, like the rest of us, feeling some major label fatigue right now, then treat her to a fresh pair of sunnies from Krewe. The Margaret shades have a chic, circular design with a subtle bubble frame—and the best part is that there’s no obnoxious logo all over the place.

$335, SHOP NOW

Krewe. Krewe

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Suede Leather

Sure, she might already have a pair of Birkenstock shoes, but what about a fuzzy, shearling-lined version?

$165, SHOP NOW

Birkenstock. Birkenstock

Smeg Electric Tea Kettle

If she prefers tea, then this blue Smeg electric tea kettle is sure to be on her holiday wishlist.

$229.95, SHOP NOW

Smeg. Williams Sonoma

Loro Piana Unito Cashmere Blanket

The woman who has everything also undoubtedly resides in the most beautifully decorated of homes. You don’t want to gift her something that could distract from her carefully curated abode, but this unapologetically extravagant Loro Piana throw blanket is the ideal, unassuming—yet ultra-luxe—addition.

$2,100, SHOP NOW

Loro Piana. Loro Piana

Stag’s Leap 2022 ARTEMIS
Cabernet Sauvignon

When it comes to gifting wine, sometimes it’s best to stick with what you know—or in this case, what you know the giftee is into. That said, it’s easy to mistakenly think that just grabbing the most expensive bottle at the wine shop is the best option. Instead, select a bottle that you either know she’s partial to, or one that has broad appeal. Stag’s Leap’s new cabernet sauvignon is a classic Napa red, made with the region’s best grapes. It’s lush and bold, but super drinkable.

$85, SHOP NOW

Stag’s Leap. Bob McClenahan

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

These bamboo sheets are nothing short of sumptuous—in fact, they’re so delightfully soft, lightweight and luxurious, she’ll want to curl up in them the moment she opens the package.

$328, shop now

Cozy Earth. Cozy Earth

M. Gemi The Felize Shearling Loafer

If she loves a classic loafer but definitely doesn’t need another plain black leather pair, consider these shearling-lined slip-ins, with a croc-embossed exterior that’s traditional, but with a unique touch.

$298, SHOP NOW

M. Gemi. M. Gemi

Guerlain L’Art & La Matiere Tobacco Honey Eau de Parfum

This Guerlain scent is so chic for winter, with notes of vanilla, tobacco and sandalwood accented by tonka bean, sesame and oud wood.

$440, SHOP NOW

Guerlain. Guerlain

Papier Shine Foiled Reading Journal

For the bookworm, a journal for her to track and record her thoughts on all her latest reads, with specific sections and prompts to stay organized. Make this a personalized gift by having it customized with her name.

$43, shop now

Papier. Papier

Sarah Flint Alexandra 50 Boot

She knows that a sleek suede boot never goes out of style. The tortoiseshell block heel adds height, but is still very much wearable for both day and night, for a comfortable shoe that doesn’t skimp on sass.

$895, SHOP NOW

Sarah Flint. Sarah Flint

Loro Piana Icer Mini Jacket

While she surely already has plenty of jackets, she doesn’t yet have this cashmere Loro Piana parka. It’s nothing short of sumptuous, for an utterly extravagant winter weather topper.

$6,350, SHOP NOW

Loro Piana. Loro Piana

Hurom H-AA Slow Juicer

A fancy new juicer means she can start the day with her favorite healthy drink. Oh, and it also makes ice cream, for the ultimate kitchen gadget.

$399, SHOP NOW

Hurom. Hurom

Diptyque Paris Ambre Scented Candle

A Diptyque candle is always nice, but why not go all out and treat her to the luxe French brand’s extra-large votive, in the brand’s amber scent? It’s a great gift for both the ultimate hostess and the homebody.

$430, SHOP NOW

Diptyque Diptyque

Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Supple Large Suede Shoulder Bag

This suede shoulder bag is roomy enough to store all her daily must-haves, and then some. The material softens and adds a subtle sophistication to a practical bag shape, making this an extra special holiday gift.

$3,400, SHOP NOW

Saint Laurent. Saint Laurent

Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Heels

An elegant pair of Manolos never go out of style, and this bejeweled heel is sure to be her new favorite shoe for the festive season and all those special occasions on the horizon.

$1,350, SHOP NOW

Manolo Blahnik. Manolo Blahnik

Design: The Leading Hotels of the World Coffee Table Book

Luxury hospitality brand Leading Hotels of the World is debuting their first coffee table book this year; this one is the first in a multi-volume series. The book features commentary from travel and design journalists and, of course, gorgeous photographs of over 70 LHW properties—it’s the perfect gift for the travel enthusiast.

$74.95, SHOP NOW

Phaidon x Leading Hotels of the World. Phaidon

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Porter Turtleneck

A turtleneck cashmere sweater lends itself to such an effortlessly stylish look, and this gorgeous forest green hue is both neutral and unique. Jenni Kayne sweaters are pricey, yes, but this is a staple she’ll wear for years to come.

$545, SHOP NOW

Jenni Kayne. Jenni Kayne

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

Self-care is more important than ever, so upgrade her at-home routine with this LED face mask with red light therapy, which leaves skin feeling fresh and soothed. It’s the perfect wellness and beauty gift.

$349, SHOP NOW

HigherDOSE. HigherDOSE

Hermès Heure H Watch

This ultra-luxe classic watch is sure to become an everyday jewelry staple.

$4,150, SHOP NOW

Hermès. Hermès

Mount Veeder Winery 2022 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

For the unsnobbish oenophile, another indulgent Napa cabernet, with notes of cedar, fig, black cherry and baking spices—perfect to uncork at her next holiday dinner party.

$70, SHOP NOW

Mount Veeder.

Thursday Boots Soho Zip

A pair of brown heeled boots are classic while also so on-trend for the season, and the square toe on this particular style adds an unexpected touch.

$198, SHOP NOW

Thursday Boots. Thursday Boots


2026 Soho Weekly Journal in Mara

What better way to kick off the new year than with an elegant planner? It’s perhaps the chicest way to stay organized, and if you want to make this a truly thoughtful gift, get it personalized with her monogram. The agenda comes in a few hues, but the croc-embossed classic black is a no-brainer.

$340, SHOP NOW

Smythson. Smythson

Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long

Dyson’s cult-favorite Airwrap is a beauty insider go-to, and for good reason. This gorgeous blue version is especially good for those with longer hair, and it’s such a lovely gift this season—it’s so much more than a hair dryer or single-styling tool, and comes with everything she needs to perfect her tresses.

$599.99, SHOP NOW

Dyson. Dyson

Jennifer Meyer Large 4-Prong Lapis Tennis Bracelet

This gorgeous tennis bracelet is a delicate and elegant addition to her jewelry repertoire.

$5,450, SHOP NOW

Jennifer Meyer. Jennifer Meyer

Riedel Superleggero Champagne Wine Glass

‘Tis the season of celebrations and plenty of bubbly, which means a fresh set of champagne flutes is surely in order.

$75 Each, shop now

Riedel. Riedel

Glasshouse Fragrances Night Before Christmas Candle

Instead of the mini votive stocking stuffer, gift her this festive, oversized candle from Glasshouse Fragrances. A limited-edition drop means that she doesn’t already have the scent, and she won’t be able to get enough of the aroma, which is on-theme for the holiday, but decidedly un-kitschy: Blackcurrant with rose, musk, lavender, plum and lemon, with base notes of oak moss and spice. It’s the Christmas gift she’ll be able to use ASAP.

$110, SHOP NOW

Glasshouse Fragrances. Glasshouse Fragrances

Away The Large Suitcase in Ruby Haze

For the jet-setter, a luggage upgrade is always a hit for a holiday gift. You don’t need to worry that she already has this glossy ruby-colored suitcase because it’s part of Away’s new, limited-edition collection. Plus, it means her bag will easily stand out when it comes through the luggage carousel—that is, when she’s willing to fly commercial.

$395, SHOP NOW

Away. Away

Breville The Oracle Jet Espresso Machine

The coffee lover in your life won’t be able to get enough of Breville’s new super-automatic coffee machine, which makes every type of espresso and coffee drink with just the touch of a button. It even has optimized settings for different types of milk, whether she drinks dairy or prefers oat, almond or soy, so that the froth is always just right. It even makes cold brew and cold espresso, with pre-programmed options, too, for truly barista-worthy beverages. She’ll be a professional in no time.

$2,000, SHOP NOW

Breville. Breville

Rothy’s The Bow Point II

There’s nothing wrong with a simple ballet flat, but she already has a closetful of classic black shoes. These feminine ballet flats from sustainable brand Rothy’s have a whimsical velvet bow and come in a fanciful bordeaux shade that’s surprisingly wearable—and they prove you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort.

$165, SHOP NOW

Rothy’s. Rothy's

Chanel Rouge Allure L’Extrait Lipstick

The perfect red lipstick does, in fact, exist, and it also comes in the most elegant (and refillable!) packaging.

$58, shop now

Chanel. Chanel

Mirth Laos Robe in Blackbird

Upgrade her holiday loungewear aesthetic with this lightweight robe; she can throw it on over her PJs and wear it around the house all season long.

$188, shop now

Mirth. Mirth

Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch

For a serious splurge-worthy piece of forever jewelry, treat her to this beautiful stainless steel Cartier watch, with delicate diamond accents.

$13,100, shop now

Cartier. Cartier

Tumi Sound Master & Dynamic MW75 Wireless Headphones

These Tumi x Master & Dynamic headphones are the high-quality audio upgrade she didn’t even know she needed. An anodized aluminum body, memory foam ear pads and a lambskin leather headband are just a few of the plush features, and not only do they look oh-so-sleek, but they don’t skip out on functionality, either, thanks to adaptive active noise cancellation, 32 hours of battery life, on-head detection and two ambient listening modes, to name just a few of the features.

$750, SHOP NOW

Tumi. Tumi

Prada Saffiano Leather Card Holder

A minimalist card holder is a lighter and more convenient alternative to a bulky wallet; this more petite option, made of Italian leather, will fit in nearly any purse.

$425, SHOP NOW

Prada. Prada

Le Creuset San Francisco Stoneware Bakeware Set, Set of 4

If she loves to bake, then consider upgrading her current bakeware with this Williams Sonoma-exclusive pretty three-piece baking set.

$256, SHOP NOW

Le Creuset. Williams Sonoma

The Row Sofia 8.75 Crossbody Bag

The Row’s minimalist leather bags never miss. This particular crossbody style is just the right size to fit all her essentials, with a bit of extra room for any extras.

$3,750, shop now

The Row. The Row

Eberjey Gisele Long PJ Set

A classic and comfy pair of long-sleeved PJs are the perfect gift to keep her chic and cozy at home.

$158, shop now

Eberjey. Eberjey

Margaux The Agnes Boot

A Western-inspired black leather boot adds a cool girl edge to any look, and she’ll wear these with everything from leggings and sweaters to dresses and tights.

$485, shop now

Margaux. Margaux

Cuyana Zipper System Tote

A timeless leather tote bag that easily stores all her essentials (plus a few extras) is sure to become her everyday bag; the zippered top ensures extra security, and there’s even a space for her laptop.

$498, shop now

Cuyana. Cuyana
]]> 1456090
 Book Lover Approved: Holiday Gifts for the Bibliophile https://observer.com/list/best-gifts-for-book-lovers/ Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:20:34 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1597031 Finding the perfect gift for all your loved ones every holiday season can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Some people are admittedly easier to shop for than others, but the key to becoming an expert gift-giver is simply to take the giftee’s interests into account. If you’re hunting for a unique gift for the book lover in your life, then you’re in the right place. Sure, you could always go to the bookstore and buy the bookworm a new title or two, but while that’s sure to be appreciated, it’s worth remembering that the most avid reader you know might already have that favorite book of yours in their steadily growing TBR pile…or they might have skipped it on purpose.

That said, even though a physical book is perhaps the most obvious gift for the bibliophile, it’s not exactly the most creative. If you want a more unique gift for the person who always has their nose in their latest read, then we’ve got you covered. Aside from plenty of book-themed presents, we’ve also rounded up the bookish accessories that will make their reading experience that much cozier and more enjoyable, along with over-the-top gifts with a nod to their most beloved hobby. From a reader-approved cashmere sweater and bookshelf-worthy classics set to a crisp leather bookmark and delightfully indulgent clutch, these are the bookish gifts for your favorite bibliophile.

Check out all of Observer’s curated luxury gift guides for the best holiday present ideas for every person out there. 

The Ultimate Book Lover Gift Guide

Author & Co. Author Clock

The book lover in your life appreciates tomes, but that doesn’t mean the only gift option this holiday season comes in the form of a copy of the latest bestseller. What about a clock for the bookish—one that subtly lets anyone who sees it know that this is the home of a true reader. This oak-framed clock brings the literary into the mundane; each minute changes to a passage from a different book, ranging from classic literature to more modern reads. With over 13,000 passages from more than 2,500 authors, even the biggest bookworm won’t get bored.

$209, shop now

Author Clock. Author Clock

Blind Date With a Book

If you haven’t heard of “blind date with a book” just yet, it’s time to change that. The concept is simple: A book is wrapped in plain paper, with minimal hints as to what could be inside. But it doesn’t have to be that simple—instead, today’s market is filled with the most whimsical versions that are simply screaming to be gifted to your most bookish friend. While there are plenty of variations, you can just check out Etsy; this seller allows you to select the box theme and color, in addition to the genre. The utterly charming package includes the aforementioned book in the genre of choice, along with a library card-style reading list, annotation tabs, a highlighter, tea, socks, a coaster, stickers and a snack, all complementing the chosen theme.

$44.50, shop now

Etsy

Lingua Franca “I Read Banned Books” Crewneck Sweater

The book lover knows how essential reading is for today’s youth, and that means fighting against book bans that prevent young readers in public schools from getting their hands on books including Toni Morrison’s Beloved and Judy Blume’s Forever. Not only is Lingua Franca’s 100 percent cashmere sweater a cozy pullover for the bookworm to wear while curling up with their latest read, but 20 percent of the proceeds go to PEN America, working to prevent books from being banned in the U.S.

$380, shop now

Lingua Franca. Lingua Franca

Rifle Paper Co. Embroidered Book Journal

Rifle Paper Co.’s embroidered-cover book journal lets your favorite reader log their latest books and write down all their thoughts after the final chapter, with sections for reading notes, reviews, a to-read list (for that ever-growing TBR) and even a division to keep track of books borrowed and lent. The reading journal comes with two paper bookmarks, too, because no dog-eared pages allowed in this house. The gorgeous cover, featuring colorful depictions of classics like Wuthering Heights, Pride and Prejudice and Great Expectations is just the cherry on top.

$34, shop now

Rifle Paper Co. STUDIOPECK LLC

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Whether they’ve been contemplating branching into e-books but haven’t taken the plunge just yet, or perhaps desperately need an upgrade from their ancient Kindle, the holiday season is the time to treat the book lover to the latest model of Amazon’s e-reader. And just trust us—even if they claim they’ll die on the hill of physical books, a few weeks with a Kindle and they’ll be changing their tune. It doesn’t mean they can’t still read physical copies, but a Kindle means they can carry around this slim design in any tote and on any trip, with countless books already pre-loaded. The newest Kindle Paperwhite offers more than 12 weeks of reading time with just one full charge, with a glare-free screen so they can read at any time of the day.

$159.99, shop now

Amazon Kindle. Amazon

Page Turner for Kindle

The avid reader who refuses to go anywhere without their Kindle, and also excels in all things hygge, will very much appreciate this page turner for their e-reader. Just clip it onto the screen and then click the button for remote page flipping, for the ultimate lounging experience.

$16, shop now

Datafy

Smythson Bookmark in Panama

Enhance their reading experience with a bookish gift like this luxurious leather bookmark, featuring a tab to secure the most recently read page in their current paperback or hardcover. We recommend customizing the calfskin bookmark with a personalization, to really add that extra-special touch.

$80, shop now

Smythson. Smythson

Literie Late Fees at the Library

The days are getting shorter and colder, and nothing sounds better than curling up at home with a great book and a delectable candle setting the mood. Literie’s votive is an easy must-buy for the book lover; inspired by public libraries, this candle smells like paper and linen—it’s sure to be the bibliophile’s new favorite scent.

$48, shop now

Literie. Literie

Book of the Month Subscription

As a longtime subscriber to Book of the Month, I can’t recommend it enough. Gift the voracious reader a three-month subscription (or longer, if you want to splurge a little more, because they deserve it) to the book service. Each month, they’ll be able to select a good book (or two) from BOTM’s selection of newly-released hardcovers, in a variety of genres that offers something for everyone.

from $59.99, shop now

Book of the Month. Book of the Month

Kikkerland Book Club Kit

If you’ve ever belonged to a book club, then you probably already know that sometimes, the conversation can get a…bit off track, shall we say? This adorable petite tin has all the book club essentials to ensure the discussion stays on track, but fun, too—it features conversation prompt cards, an hourglass timer, a book chart, a die and, finally, literary cocktail recipes. Because what better way to tune out a point that’s already been made thrice than with a delicious beverage?

$12.50, shop now

Kikkerland. Kikkerland

Juniper Books Classics in Blush Book Set

Juniper Books crafts beautiful custom book sets for the bibliophile’s home library. There are hundreds of options to choose from, but if the bookworm in your life is partial to the classics, treat them to this five-book set of tomes from 19th-century female authors Jane Austen, Emily Brontë, Anne Brontë and George Eliot.

$249.99, shop now

Juniper Books. Juniper Books

Olympia Le-Tan ‘The Old Man And The Sea’ Book Clutch

For the bibliophile whose purse collection is rivaled only by her vast array of books, an Olympia Le-Tan clutch is the way to go. The hand-embroidered bag comes in various prints, including a number of classic book covers, all of which are carefully crafted with silk thread embroidery and felt appliqués. Sure, it might not fit her latest paperback, but she might be able to read on her phone once she gets to her destination.

$1,780, shop now

Olympia Le-Tan. Olympia Le-Tan

Cozy Earth Channel Cuddle Blanket

Elevate the book lover’s winter reading sessions by gifting them the coziest of blankets. As any true bookworm knows, comfort is key when cuddling up with a good read in the depths of winter, and this plush faux fur blanket promises they’ll be wrapped up in pure luxury.

$248, shop now

Cozy Earth. Cozy Earth

Custom Reader “From The Library Of” Book Embosser

For the literary enthusiast who seems like they already have everything, custom is the way to go. This brass embosser manages to both embrace the innate kitsch of, well, a book-themed embosser, while also staying firmly out of the realm of tacky. It’s a great gift idea for the literature lover who likes to add a personal touch to their tomes.

$75, shop now

Stamprints. Stamprints

Uncommon Goods Mini Bookshelf Reading Nook

The book lover who never stops talking about their at-home library will adore this charming little bookend, in the shape of a miniature bookshelf that opens up to reveal an utterly adorable 3D scene of, you guessed it, a library. Go the extra mile and get this bookend—which comes fully assembled, because not everyone loves a DIY project—personalized with the giftee’s name.

$58, shop now

Uncommon Goods. Uncommon Goods

Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light

It’s best to approach any viral product with a healthy dose of skepticism, but sometimes, it appears that an item can genuinely earn the buzz. For the book lover who prefers physical copies, this lightweight book light ensures they won’t have to worry about keeping an ultra-bright light fixture on before bedtime or searching for the overhead light on the plane. And it’s a whole lot more stylish than the book lights of our youth…

$28, shop now

Glocusent. Glocusent

Local Bookshop Gift Card

While I don’t usually condone handing out gift cards for any holiday, sometimes, there are exceptions. And when it comes to ensuring that you’ve found the perfect gift for the most voracious of readers, a gift card to their local bookshop is an easy way to their heart. If you’re not sure which bookstore they frequent, just buy them a gift card from Bookshop.org, so that they can support their local bookstore but aren’t limited to a shop that might be a bit inconvenient.

Bookshop.org

The Strand
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 The Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes for a Toast to Gratitude  https://observer.com/list/thanksgiving-cocktail-drinks-recipes/ Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:32:31 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1461780 Turkey and pumpkin pie get most of the attention when it comes to Thanksgiving dishes, but let’s not forget about the crucial cocktail portion of the November meal. Even if you’re not exactly Ina Garten in the kitchen, you can still contribute to the day by brushing up on your bartending skills and surprising everyone with a fittingly festive cocktail to complete the Thanksgiving menu. Whether it’s a pre-dinner aperitif, dessert treat or a mid-meal beverage, a holiday cocktail adds a little something extra to the entire festive experience.

As you finalize the menu and debate over the recipes for the stuffing, cranberry sauce and apple pie, throw a cocktail or two into the to-do list for the special celebration. Fall cocktails just hit different, and a good drink complements a Thanksgiving dinner. If you want to get really fancy, whip up a special cocktail just for the appetizers, before switching up to a different drink for the entrées and finally, a dessert-worthy tipple.

We found all the best recipes for the best Thanksgiving cocktails that you’ll be extra grateful for this year. Whether you’re into a classic cocktail, a fizzy beverage or any other kind of bubbly sipper, we’ve got you covered. Below, see our favorite concoctions with all the fall flavors to whip up for the holiday table—these are the best cocktail recipes that are sure to be a hit.

The Best Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes for the Perfect Turkey Day

Maple Margarita

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Patrón Silver
.75 oz Patrón Citrónge Orange
.25 oz Ilegal Mezcal Joven
1 oz maple syrup
1 oz lime juice
Maple leaf, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients (except garnish) in a shaker tin; shake with ice to chill. Strain into a coupe glass rimmed with salt. Garnish with a maple leaf.

Maple Margarita. Pátron Silver.

Maple Apple Rum Cider

Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz Kōloa Spice Rum 
1 oz lemon juice 
1/2 oz maple syrup 
1/2 oz triple sec
2 oz sparkling apple cider
Pinch cinnamon 
Warmed cinnamon stick, for garnish

Directions:
Add rum, lemon juice, maple syrup and triple sec to a mixing glass with ice. Stir at least 20 times, then gently add cold sparkling apple cider. Strain into a wine glass and garnish with the warmed cinnamon stick.

Maple Apple Rum Cider. Koloa

Crème Brûlée Iced Latte

Ingredients:
1/2 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream
1 oz espresso
1/2 oz Ketel One Vodka
1 tsp brown sugar
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 oz heavy cream
1 tbsp caramel sauce

Directions:
Mix milk, Baileys, vodka and vanilla extract together. Pour into a glass with ice. Mix brown sugar and espresso together, then pour into the same glass. Finally, mix caramel sauce and heavy cream, and whip into a cold foam. Sprinkle sugar on top and torch, if available.

Crème Brûlée Iced Latte. Baileys

Autumn Alexander

Ingredients:
1 oz Clase Azul Tequila Reposado
1 oz pumpkin spice syrup
1 oz half and half
1/2 oz amaro
1/2 oz coffee liqueur
Cocoa powder, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice; shake vigorously and double-strain into a coupe glass. Cover half the glass with a napkin and sprinkle with cocoa powder.

Clase Azul. Clase Azul

Heated Affair

Ingredients:
2 oz Partida Añejo Tequila
6 oz hot, spiced apple cider
Heavy cream
Grated nutmeg, for garnish

Directions:
In a small, warm wine glass, add tequila and hot apple cider. Float in heavy cream and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Heated Affair. Partida Añejo Tequila

30 Second Espresso Martini

Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz Borghetti Espresso Liqueur
1 1/2 oz mezcal of choice
Espresso beans or coffee beans, for garnish

Directions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the Borghetti liqueur and mezcal to the shaker and shake well. Strain into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with espresso or coffee beans.

30 Second Espresso Martini. Borghetti

The Rémy Toffee Sour

Ingredients: 
50 ml Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal
20 ml lime juice or Verjuice
15 ml toffee syrup with ice

Directions:
Add brandy, lime juice and toffee syrup to a shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Double strain into a chilled coupette glass.

The Rémy Toffee Sour. Rémy Martin

Spiced Sangria

  • Makes six servings

Ingredients:
3 bottles Rosa Regale Red Wine
3 cups cranberry juice
1 1/2 cups blood orange juice
3/4 cup mulling spice syrup
3 cups fresh cranberries
3 blood oranges, sliced
Cinnamon stick and star anise, for garnish

Directions:
Add wine, cranberry juice, blood orange juice and mulling spice syrup into a pitcher or punch bowl. Add cranberries and blood orange slices. Serve in wine glasses and garnish each drink with fruit, cinnamon stick and star anise.

Rosa Spiced Sangria. Rosa Spiced Sangria

Pumpkin, Spice and Everything on Ice

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Broken Shed Vodka
1 oz pumpkin maple coffee syrup
Pumpkin maple coffee syrup (mix equal parts cold coffee, maple syrup and pumpkin purée)
Star anise pod, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker and shake with ice. Double strain into a rocks glass with one large ice cube; garnish with a star anise pod.

Pumpkin, Spice and Everything on Ice. Broken Shed Vodka

Pumpkin Spice Margarita

Ingredients:
1 oz Cointreau
2 oz tequila
.75 oz fresh lime juice
2 tbsp pumpkin puree
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tbsp honey
Cinnamon stick, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker, add ice and shake. Fine-strain over ice into a fresh glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Pumpkin Spice Margarita. Cointreau

Harvard Cocktail

Ingredients:
2 oz Argonaut Fat Thumb Brandy
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 dashes orange bitters
Brandied cherry
Splash of club soda
Expressed orange peel or brandied cherry, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice; stir together to combine and chill. Strain into a chilled coupe glass; garnish with expressed orange peel and a brandied cherry.

Harvard Cocktail. Argonaut

Hot Toddy

Ingredients:
1.25 oz Noilly Prat Rouge
.5 oz D’Usse Cognac VSOP
.5 oz demerara syrup
.5 oz lemon juice
3 oz black tea
2 dashes chocolate bitters
1 dash angostura bitters

Directions:
Add all ingredients except for the tea into a glass. Top with hot tea and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Noilly Toddy. Noilly

Count Your Blessings Bourbon Cocktail

Ingredients:
2 1/2 oz Jeptha Creed Four Grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon
1 oz spiced simple syrup (with cinnamon, cardamom and clove)
3/4 oz fresh lime juice 
1 1/2 oz cranberry juice 
1 oz apple brandy 

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a shaker filled with ice; shake vigorously. Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish bourbon cocktail with apple slices and grated cinnamon.

Count Your Blessings.

Pumpkin Spice Carajillo

Ingredients:
1 oz Lalo Tequila
1 oz espresso
1 oz Licor 43
1 tbsp fresh pumpkin puree
2 dashes mole bitters
Star anise, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice; shake vigorously. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with star anise.

Pumpkin Spice Carajillo. Lalo

Templeton Maple Toddy

Ingredients:
2 oz Templeton Rye Maple Cask Finish
3/4 oz lemon juice
1/2 oz maple syrup
Cinnamon bark, for garnish

Directions:
Add maple syrup, hot water, rye whiskey and lemon juice into a mug, stirring until combined. Garnish with a cinnamon bark and serve warm.

Templeton Maple Toddy. Templeton

Fall Spiced Wine

Ingredients:
1 part Absolut Pear
1 part apple juice
1/4 part lime juice
1 part ginger beer
2 parts Campo Viejo Cava Brut
Mint, apple slices and cinnamon stick, for garnish 

Directions:
Add liquid ingredients into a glass or bowl and top with sparkling wine. Add ice. Garnish with mint, apple and a cinnamon stick for a fresh take on the classic Moscow Mule.

Fall Spiced Wine Mule. Campo Viejo

Melbourne Apple Sour

Ingredients:
2 oz Starward Two-Fold Whisky
.75 oz fresh lemon juice
.25 oz simple syrup
.5 oz egg white
Apple cider

Directions:
Combine all ingredients, except for the apple cider, into a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously to whip the egg whites. Add ice and shake again until very cold. Double strain into a coupe glass and top with apple cider.

Melbourne Apple Sour. Starward

Cranberry and Apple

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Jaja Reposado
2 oz cranberry cocktail
Dry hard apple cider
Apple slice, for garnish

Directions:
Add tequila and cranberry cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice cubes. Top with apple cider and garnish with apple slice.

Cranberry and Apple. Kyle Ford

Campari Boulevardier

Ingredients:
.75 parts Campari
.75 parts 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso
1.5 parts Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon
Orange slice, for garnish

Directions:
Combine bourbon, vermouth and Campari in a cocktail glass; stir until combined. Pour over a glass with one large ice cube. Garnish with orange slice.

Campari Boulevardier. Campari

Select Cranberry Paloma

Ingredients:
1.5 parts Milagro Select Silver
3/4 part fresh lime juice
3/4 part cranberry juice
1/2 part thyme simple syrup
2 parts pink grapefruit soda
Cranberries, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients, except for soda and garnish, in a shaker. Shake well. Strain into a highball glass with fresh ice. Garnish with cranberries.

Select Cranberry Paloma. Select

Pumpkin Patch

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Crystal Head Vodka
1 tsp honey
.75 oz coffee liqueur
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
.75 oz heavy cream (or non-dairy alternative, such as oat milk creamer or coconut milk creamer)
2 to 3 ginger snap cookies

Directions:
Crumble the ginger snap cookies and place the crumbs on a plate. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with honey. Dip your glass in cookie crumbs to coat the rim. In a shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur and pumpkin pie spice. Shake with ice. Pour contents of shaker into a rocks glass over ice and top with the heavy cream or non-dairy milk of choice.

Pumpkin Patch. Crystal Head

Grey Goose Apple Martini

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Grey Goose La Poire Vodka
.5 oz calvados
.33 oz Ancho Reyes chilis
.5 oz lime juice
1.5 oz fresh apple juice

Directions:
Shake all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass.

Grey Goose Apple Martini. Grey Goose

Pear Sour

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
2 oz pear juice
.5 oz lemon juice
.5 oz cinnamon syrup
Fresh pear
Lemon and ground cinnamon, for garnish

Directions:
Slice up pears into quarters, remove the core and place 1/4 into a shaker; muddle. Add rye whiskey, pear juice, lemon juice and cinnamon syrup; add ice and shake until cold. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with a lemon wheel and ground cinnamon.

Sagamore Pear Sour. Sagamore

The Botanist Blood Orange Negroni

Ingredients: 
1.5 oz The Botanist Islay Dry Gin 
.75 oz bianco vermouth  
.5 oz Italian bitter aperitif  
.25 oz blood orange bitters 
Blood orange slice, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir to incorporate. Strain over fresh ice into a double old-fashioned glass. Garnish with blood orange slice.

The Botanist Blood Orange Negroni. The Botanist

Corralejo Pumpkin Pie

1.5 oz Corralejo Reposado
1/4 oz Montenegro
3/4 oz pumpkin puree
1 oz fresh lemon juice
Whipped cream, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients into a shaker and shake contents. Pour into a wine glass and top with whipped cream.

Corralejo Pumpkin Pie. Corralejo

Harper Harvest Fizz

Ingredients:
1.5 oz I.W. Harper Cabernet Cask Reserve
1 oz 100 percent pomegranate juice
.5 oz lemon juice
5 oz chilled ginger beer
Dried grapefruit, for garnish

Directions:
Combine lemon juice, pomegranate juice and bourbon whiskey into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for a minute, then pour over ice in a rocks glass. Top off with ginger beer and garnish with dried grapefruit.

Harper Harvest Fizz. ERIC MEDSKER

Pumpkin Daiquiri

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Bayou White Rum
1 oz pumpkin puree
1 oz orange juice
Fresh lime
Cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, for garnish

Directions: 
Add all ingredients to a shaker; shake well with ice and strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with orange slice and sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg and whole cloves.

Pumpkin Daiquiri. Bayou

Far East

Ingredients:
1.5 oz D’Usse VSOP French Cognac
.5 oz amaretto liqueur
3 oz chai tea
.5 oz vanilla syrup
.5 oz almond milk
2 dashes cardamom bitters

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake and then strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.

Far East. D'Usse VSOP

Spiced Sorel Spritz

Ingredients:
.5 oz black pepper and rosemary simple syrup
2 oz Sorel Liqueur
3 dashes orange bitters
3 oz prosecco
Splash of soda water
Rosemary and orange slice, for garnish

Directions: 
Add all syrup, liqueur, orange bitters and soda water
to a spritz or wine glass. Add ice and sparkling wine. Garnish with rosemary sprig and orange slice.

Spiced Sorel Spritz. Sorel
]]> 1461780
 Things We Loved This Month: Adventures in French Polynesia https://observer.com/list/things-we-loved-this-month-october-travel-style/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:31:37 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1596005 October got away from me this year. One moment, everyone was eagerly awaiting the release of all things pumpkin spice at the end of September, and the next thing I knew, it was Halloween. Perhaps it’s because I didn’t spend much of October actually in a classic autumnal environment—the leaves were just starting to change and I was barely in need of a light sweater when I headed to JFK to embark on a trip that ended in French Polynesia early on in the month. By the time I landed back in New York two weeks later, the air was nothing short of crisp.

I travel relatively frequently for work, but this particular long-haul adventure reminded me that certain products, places and experiences will always stand a step above the rest. Because when you’re sprinting through LAX to retrieve a lost bag with mere minutes to make a flight (yes, it was quite dramatic), or in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with no wifi in sight for three days, you’re really able to separate the superior from the merely adequate. In October, my favorites are a somewhat eclectic combination of items: A Breton sweater I wore almost daily, the tech gadget I finally invested in, a pair of not exactly fashion-forward socks. And then there were the places and experiences: An Art Deco jewel box in Santa Monica, a book devoured in one sitting, a deceptively casual beach bar on private island with Hollywood history. Take this list for what it is: one editor’s very subjective attempt to sort through the nonsense and find the best of October—with not a pumpkin in sight.

Things I Learned I Loved in October

The Georgian

Until this month, I hadn’t spent any real time in L.A. since before the start of the Covid pandemic. I usually stay on the Westside (yes, I know that makes me a peak tourist, but I’m good with that—if I’m in California, I want to be near the water, okay?!), and one hotel, in particular, intrigued me: The Georgian. This Santa Monica hotel reopened in 2023, but it dates back to the 1930s, when it was very much a go-to for the who’s who of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

The Georgian, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, is just across the street from the beach, but it stands out even among the other eclectic spots in Santa Monica, largely thanks to its iconic blue exterior. Both the outside and inside of the 84-room property—including the bellhops’ distinctive baby blue retro uniforms, complete with a pillbox hat—exude an Art-Deco-meets-Wes-Anderson aesthetic, which feels right considering the hotel is featured in the Accidentally Wes Anderson book.

I checked into a one-bedroom suite, and was pleasantly surprised to find that it was an actual suite, with a full separate bedroom—something that’s become increasingly rare. The room was as delightfully whimsical as the rest of the hotel, outfitted with jewel tones and vintage-y accents like a record player and curated selection of records, along with an impressive view of the ocean.

This is a truly boutique hotel, with small yet charming public spaces, including the main restaurant, Sirena, which also offers outdoor seating, and unexpected areas like Gallery 33, which hosts a rotating lineup of art shows, and the cozy, dim-lit Library, where I holed up with my Kindle before heading to the airport for my midnight flight across the Pacific. The service and atmosphere was impeccable, and as I departed, I decided I was once again a fan of the West Coast and would happily book back into the hotel for my next trip to L.A.—a notion only further bolstered once I discovered that Go Greek is essentially next door.

The Georgian

The Georgian. The Georgian

‘Heart the Lover’ by Lily King

Anyone who has spent more than five minutes around me quickly learns that I have exactly three hobbies: Travel, crosswords and reading. Ever since childhood, it’s rare to find me without some form of reading material at all times—my Kindle is perhaps my most treasured possession. When I’m traveling for work, I usually don’t have reading time during the day, but Tahiti was the rare exception. The second leg of my trip included three days on a catamaran in French Polynesia, during which it rained approximately 75 percent of the time—I should also note that there was no wifi on this boat. No matter, though—I had already pre-loaded my Kindle with an unreasonable number of books, and was thrilled that I got off the Libby waitlist (support your local public libraries!) for Lily King’s new novel, Heart the Lover, just before I left for the airport. I read her previous novel, Writers & Lovers, in the thick of the Covid-19 pandemic, and immediately fell in love with her sharp, witty and utterly engrossing writing style. Without giving any spoilers, I’ll just share that her latest is about an unnamed narrator (that is, until the final page) who is dubbed “Jordan” by two boys she meets in college (as in, The Great Gatsby‘s Jordan Baker), and a love triangle ensues that is so far beyond what you could expect. And I would not, in any way, categorize this as a romance novel. I absolutely devoured it in a single day, and I do recommend reading Writers & Lovers before diving into this one. Be prepared—I was giggling out loud at first several chapters, but it’s an emotional rollercoaster by the end.

$26, shop now

‘Heart the Lover’ by Lily King. Grove Press

Apple AirTags

I travel pretty frequently, so it might be a surprise that Apple AirTags are just now making it onto my list of things that I only recently realized are crucial to my life. Well, it’s true—despite the fact that travel is my actual job, I have never invested in an AirTag. There’s a reason for it, though—I’m a diehard carry-on-bag-only traveler, and yes, I am, in fact, one of those unbearable people who loves to subtly brag about their packing skills and how they can fit everything they could possibly need in just this one bag. But after a couple of recent travel experiences in which I was one of the unlucky few forced to check my (carry-on-approved, might I add) bag at the airport, I realized perhaps it wouldn’t be a bad idea to keep a few of these tags with me.

Yet, I still couldn’t bite the bullet—that is, until I was preparing for my Tahiti trip this month. While I still packed everything I needed in my trusty Away carry-on, I was informed ahead of time that no matter what size the rolling suitcase was, it would need to be checked a few times throughout my two-week-long trip, which included a few shorter flights on what were essentially prop planes, as well as a longer leg on an airline that I was warned was not particularly accommodating. When the October Amazon Prime savings event popped up earlier this month, I decided it was kismet and ordered a four-pack of AirTags. (I must insert here that I got these half-off the usual price, because there are few things I love more than a good deal.) I’m happy to report that I’ve never had less buyer’s regret, and there’s something oh-so-satisfying for my type A brain about not only knowing where your bag is at all times, but also removing a bit of that rather crippling anxiety of wondering where, exactly, your suitcase could be at any moment.

$65, shop now

Apple AirTags. Apple

Undercover Dark Chocolate + Sea Salt Chocolate Quinoa Crisps

On any given travel day, approximately one-third of my tote bag is filled with snacks. I have a (perhaps unfounded) fear of being trapped on a never-ending flight with no food in sight. To be fair, I’m a girl with allergies and an unfortunate predisposition to fainting, so a bag packed to the brim with an outrageous array of food for any trip is a nonnegotiable for me. On a last-minute Whole Foods stop ahead of the first leg of my journey to L.A., before going off to Tahiti, I went wild and grabbed all the acceptable snacks I could find, which was how I came across these Undercover Chocolate quinoa crisps. I inhaled them en route, immediately lamenting my lack of foresight in buying more than one pack, and upon touchdown on the West Coast, promptly ran to a CVS to grab several more before embarking on part two of my travels. It’s like eating a bag full of chocolate, but the quinoa adds a little crispiness and helps encourage the delusion that these are a *health snack.*

$3.99, shop now

Undercover Chocolate. Undercover Chocolate

Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks

I am no stranger to the compression sock, which is not a new item in my travel repertoire. I first encountered the compression sock about a decade ago, with no small amount of derision. Unfortunately for me, by the ripe old age of 27, I was already in desperate need of these bad boys for any long-haul flight, and now, six years later, I simply cannot board a flight longer than five hours without them. I forgot a pair on my first post-pandemic flight, and I woke up halfway through the redeye to Ireland because my feet had already swollen such an egregious amount that my sneakers were near bursting open. It was all very glamorous. Anyway, I’ve tried out several brands over the years, but I’ve brought these Comrad compression socks on my most recent long-hauls, and they’ve quickly become my favorites. First of all, the plain black color is entirely inoffensive, but most importantly, these are tight and get the job done, but not so much so that I struggle to pull them over my calves in my cramped airplane seat and subsequently contemplate whether or not a pair of compression socks can actually cut off all circulation to my legs, while also praying I don’t run into anyone I know as I start to break a sweat getting into a pair of socks. So while these are perhaps the least sexy item on any “favorite things” list, they’re crucial to my October arsenal.

Comrad. Comrad

Mersea Catalina Sweater

I’m a sucker for a Breton stripe, and even though it’s almost time to pull out the heavier knits, I’ve been clinging to the last licks of milder weather and wearing this Mersea Catalina sweater nonstop. If you’ve seen me at any point over the past month, it’s likely I’ve been wearing this sweater and probably a pair of pants that I’ll talk more about in a second. The classic crewneck is fitted but not so tight that I get that mild sense of claustrophobia from a too-snug turtleneck, and the billowy silhouette is loose but not baggy.

$108, shop now

Mersea. Mersea

Bob’s Bar

An undeniable highlight of my time in French Polynesia was my visit to The Brando, an eco-resort on the private island of Tetiaroa, which has been on my travel bucket list ever since I wrote about Barack Obama penning his memoirs at the property. And no, it’s not a greenwashing scheme—this is a genuinely environmentally-focused resort on the late actor Marlon Brando’s private island, with the singular goal of minimizing its carbon footprint through exploration, discovery, education and conservation. I could wax poetic about the pure magic of this place for ages, but I’ll do my best to restrain myself.

The entire place is nothing short of dreamy (okay, failing already with the restraint), and I found myself particularly taken with the nondescript Bob’s Bar, an unassuming beach shack serving drinks and bites. The menu takes the form of an imagined travel journal Marlon Brando left behind in the 1970s, with a selection of his favored cocktails and dishes, and some quirky anecdotes—this is also where I learned that the famed actor liked to take a five-gallon tub of ice cream into a kayak, and simply sit there dining while floating around. New life goals.

As I plopped down on one of the benches in front of the bar one day, I wondered aloud who Bob actually was—he seemed quite mysterious. In reality, however, not so much—the bartender kindly informed me that Bob was just Brando’s friend-slash-assistant-slash-island manager. A man of all trades!

To say that the bartenders and pool staff go above and beyond isn’t enough. I’ve always scoffed at travel reviews and writing that fawn over how a place makes you feel like family, but I finally get it, because you really do feel like a part of the Brando family at this hotel. While we got lucky with sunny skies for most of our stay, our last day was pretty much one giant downpour. After our flight was delayed (weather, obviously), we set up camp at Bob’s Bar (don’t forget to order the burger; it really is that good), where several other guests who were also awaiting departure had the same idea. Despite the gusty winds and deluge of rain coming down on us, it felt like just another adventure at the Brando, chatting amongst the other guests and staff about our impending departure and sipping on some of the best cocktails I’ve ever tasted. (Try one of the health mocktails but add rum; you won’t regret it.) As I cozied up with a plate of fries, my aforementioned beverage and Kindle, I briefly wondered if I should attempt to locate a dry towel—I said nothing aloud, but mere seconds later, Lambert, from the pool desk (an absolute star of our stay) appeared with a stack of fresh towels. Mind readers, I’m telling you! Unfortunately, my not-so-silent wish that the prop plane would be grounded in the weather and I’d just have to stay at the Brando indefinitely were not answered in similar fashion.

The Brando

Bob’s Bar. The Brando

Hudson Barbara High-Rise Bootcut Jean

Fall is nice and all, but I’ve never been someone who counts down to the end of September—I’m a summer person, through and through. And that extends to the wardrobe situation, because it’s just so much easier to get dressed in the warmth—layering is just so much effort. That said, for the time that I was not in the tropical climate of French Polynesia in October, I was willing to put on precisely two pairs of jeans, one of which is this bootcut pant from Hudson. They’re my preferred high-rise waist, and I find the flared leg to be super flattering and a bit more polished than a slouchy wide-leg cut. I wore them with everything, and best of all, these are made from a stretch material that holds its shape, but doesn’t prevent me from comfortably sitting down for a full meal. A win-win.

$195, shop now

Hudson. Hudson
]]> 1596005
 The Enduring Appeal of the Riding Boot, From Stable to Sidewalk https://observer.com/list/best-riding-boots-women/ Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:15:09 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1459927 The riding boot’s origins are right out of the horse girl arena, but over the years, the knee-high boot has firmly cemented its place in the realm of mainstream fashion—even for those who aren’t interested in spending time in stables or talking about equestrian lore. And while fall shoe trends come and go, the riding boot has a certain timeless allure. After all, if a shoe can emerge from the somewhat terrifying depths of peak millennial fashion of the early 2010s (I’m talking low-rise skinny jeans and some iteration of an infinity scarf, maybe even with a beanie—and yes, I am, in fact, speaking from personal experience) relatively unscathed, then it can do anything.

The traditional riding boot—that is, the most traditional version not explicitly designed for riders—is crafted from brown or black leather and hits just below the knee, with a low block heel. These classic styles embrace the shoe’s innately preppy, Ralph Lauren-girl nature, but the beauty of the riding boot is that it doesn’t lean too far toward one particular aesthetic—it’s all in how you put the outfit together.

Indeed, the sheer versatility of the riding boot is surely a large reason why the shoe has stood the test of time. This knee-high boot has some serious range, whether you want to wear yours with a crisp pair of jeans and a turtleneck, or perhaps with a flouncy dress or oversized sweater. Select a higher heel if you prefer some extra height, or stick with the standard one-inch block heel if that’s more your vibe. There are also more unexpected interpretations of the riding boot, whether it’s a bold colorway, unique fabrication or whimsical detailing. Below, peruse the season’s best riding boots, from classic leather to croc-embossed styles.

The Best Riding Boots for Fall

Margaux The City Boot

Margaux’s classic black leather riding boot might look simple, but it’s a wardrobe powerhouse. The rounded almond toe adds a touch of drama, while the 1.5-inch stacked leather heel adds height, but is still decidedly wearable for everyday, thanks to 5 mm of foam padding. The hidden interior zipper ensures you won’t struggle to pull these off at the end of a long day.

$595, shop now

Margaux. Margaux

Toteme Square-Toe Leather Riding Boots

Toteme is known for its luxurious, minimalist pieces, and these tall riding boots are no different. A softly pointed upper leads to a square toe and an extended welt, with a subtle, under one-inch stacked heel. A strap at the collar adds unexpected dimension to the Italian-made leather boots.

$1,200, shop now

Toteme. Toteme

Polo Ralph Lauren Vachetta Leather Riding Boot

It’s no surprise that Polo Ralph Lauren does a riding boot well—the brand is basically the unofficial uniform of horse girls worldwide. These cognac-colored, round-toe boots are accented with white stitching and finished off with a sturdy wooden heel and buckled strap.

$898, shop now

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

Larroudé Alexis Flat Boot In Brown Croc Leather

Crafted in Brazil, this knee-high boot brings just the right amount of edge to your autumnal wardrobe. The embossed croc is unexpected yet surprisingly versatile, and the wider collar is not only flattering, but also convenient to pull on over a thicker jean or pant.

$525, shop now

Larroudé. Larroudé

Jimmy Choo Lawton Suede Boots

Inspired by classic riding boots, Jimmy Choo’s suede Lawtons feature a round toe, low 1.5-inch heel and knotted leather straps around the ankle. The plush suede fabrication is a softer, more subdued alternative to the usual leather.

$1,695, shop now

Jimmy Choo. Jimmy Choo

Everlane Leather Knee-High City Boot

Sleek yet sturdy, Everlane’s leather knee-high riding boots are the kind of shoes that end up as your fall and winter staple footwear. A softened square toe, two-inch heel and leather outsole are functional, but not boring.

$398, shop now

Everlane. Everlane

Franco Sarto Franco Meyer Knee High Boot

These versatile brown leather boots have a flattering silhouette with room around the leg, with a zipper that goes all the way up to the top for easy wear.

$275, shop now

Franco Sarto. Franco Sarto

Loeffler Randall Indy Black Leather Tall Boot

The ultimate sleek, day-to-night boots that effortlessly pulls double-time. Made from a comfortable yet structured calfskin leather, with an elongated almond toe and 1.5-inch block heel. For the days that start with an 8 a.m. coffee meeting and end with a much-deserved martini.

$695, shop now

Loeffler Randall. Loeffler Randall

Sarah Flint Perfect Riding Boot 30

Add a classic shoe to your wardrobe with these brown knee-high riding boots, which have a slightly higher wooden heel, stretch paneling and happen to be up there with the most comfy options available.

$875, shop now

Sarah Flint. Sarah Flint

Manolo Blahnik Luchino Black Calf Leather Knee High Boots

Does Manolo ever miss? There’s a reason the iconic designer remains a go-to for classic footwear—these black calf leather knee-high boots are a lesson in how to subtly modernize a traditional silhouette, thanks to a more relaxed fit and a rubber sole that doesn’t shy away from city puddles.

$1,695, shop now

Manolo Blahnik. Manolo Blahnik

Penelope Chilvers Inclement Long Tassel Boot

These waterproof boots from Kate Middleton’s go-to English brand are made of weatherproof suede, with a rubber sole, and will have you ready for a weekend in the country—or just a rainy day strolling around the city. They come in both standard as well as a “generous” option that’s ideal for those seeking a wide-calf boot.

$810, shop now

Penelope Chilvers. Penelope Chilvers

Aquatalia Ricarda Leather Riding Boots

For a classic pair of riding boots that also give you a bit of extra height, try these brown leather shoes. The low block heel makes them a bit more of a dressy boot, while the stretch paneling makes them easy to slip on and off.

$650, shop now

Aquatalia. Aquatalia
]]> 1459927
 Jet Set: Travel Must-Haves From the Sephora Savings Event https://observer.com/list/jet-set-sephora-savings-event/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1595764 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. Whether you’re already packing for your next adventure or still in the early planning stages, we’re here to help with all your jet-setting needs. It’s almost time for the Sephora Savings Event, which means you should start planning what you want to add to your cart right about now. The sales extravaganza, which typically takes place two or three times a year, starts for Rouge members on Friday, Oct. 31; they score 20 percent off products, while it opens up to the VIB tier on Tuesday, Nov. 4, with 15 percent off. Insider status (that’s pretty much everyone) also gets access on Nov. 4, with 10 percent off nearly the entire Sephora store.

There are a few exclusions, including The Ordinary, MAC Viva Glam and Sephora Collection; however, this year, the entire Sephora Collection is 30 percent off during the sale—you just can’t combine it with other offers. The sale runs through Nov. 10, and is the optimal time to stock up on travel-approved jet-setter essentials. From a lush lip salve and silky eye mask to a pint-sized SPF and refreshing face spritz, here’s what we’re loving and coveting from the Sephora Savings Event.

What to Buy from the Sephora Savings Event

Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask

I was given this sleep mask in a gift bag a couple of years ago, and it’s now a non-negotiable essential in my tote bag whenever I’m getting onto a plane, red-eye or not. This particular eye mask is constructed with a contoured shape for those with eyelash extensions; even though I’m not one of those people, I find that the shape is actually more comfortable than other eye masks, as it doesn’t press too hard on your eyes and gives a little more room. As a longtime contact lens wearer, I very much appreciate that this doesn’t irritate my sensitive eyes.

shop now

Slip. Slip

Mane Mini Ready or Knot Detangling Paddle Hair Brush

Mane’s mini brush works on both wet and dry hair, and any kind of multi-use product is key when packing up your beauty essentials for a trip. This one is so petite, you can also just throw it into your purse for everyday use, whenever you need to give your hair a little touch-up.

shop now

Mane. Mane

Phlur Vanilla Skin Eau de Parfum Travel Spray

This is a perfume so good, I’ve now included it twice in a row for on-the-go Sephora sale recs. I still firmly believe there’s no better compliment than someone telling you that you smell good, and this travel-sized Vanilla Skin Phlur fragrance is a surefire way to ensure you always smell utterly amazing.

Shop now

Phlur. Phlur

Touchland Hand Sanitizer

This is another item I’ve recommended in the past as good to grab whenever there’s a sale. Yes, this is a rather expensive hand sanitizer, but it does smell nice, and it doesn’t dry out my hands too much, even when I admittedly tend to overdo it panicking over germs whenever I’m in an airport.

shop now

Touchland. Touchland

Tower 28 Beauty Mini SOS Daily Hypochlorous Acid Spray for Breakouts & Redness

I personally don’t love a full skincare routine on the plane, but what I do enjoy is a good face spritz, like Tower 28’s sensitive skin-approved hypochlorous acid spray. It soothes and reduces redness, and help keeps any in-flight breakouts at bay.

shop now

Tower 28. Tower 28

Supergoop! Mini Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen SPF 40

Speaking of sensitive skin, let’s move on to the sunscreen category. As someone with blemish-prone, reactive and sensitive skin, I typically prefer a mineral SPF for my face, and Supergoop’s formulation hasn’t failed me yet. While even the larger size is technically TSA-approved, this super mini is a good one if you want an extra to toss into your bag.

shop now

Supergoop! Supergoop!

Glossier Balm Dotcom Lip Balm and Skin Salve

Always bring a good hydrating lip product when you’re traveling. To be frank, I’m usually partial to my tried-and-true Aquaphor, but if I’m feeling fancy, I do love Glossier’s cult-favorite Balm Dot Com salves.

shop now

Glossier Glossier

Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

On that note of hydrating products, you can’t forget about a good hand cream. In my humble opinion, Kiehl’s is the best of the best—it’s the lotion I always go back to, even after trying all the flashy new products that come out on the market. I use this constantly, especially when my hands are super dry on the plane. Do yourself a favor and scoop up the brand’s Crème de Corps while it’s on sale, too.

Kiehl’s. Kiehl's

Merit Solo Shadow Sheen Cream Eyeshadow

The Sephora Savings Event is a good time to stock up on your most dependable favorites, but it’s also when you can try out a new product you’ve been contemplating. Merit’s creamy shimmer eyeshadow is the kind of one-and-done eye product that will quickly earn a permanent place in your toiletry kit—it’s totally foolproof, and gives you an instant eye look in mere seconds.

shop now

Merit. Merit
]]> 1595764
 The Spectacularly Spooky Halloween Cocktails for the Witchiest Season https://observer.com/list/best-halloween-cocktails-recipes/ Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1456541 Spooky season started at precisely 12:01 am on October 1, which means you’re already lagging when it comes to fully immersing yourself in the witchiest time of year. It’s time to stock up on pumpkins, caramel apples and an excessive amount of candy, but don’t forget to really embrace all the hocus pocus with a delightfully devilish cocktail to really indulge in that Halloween spirit.

Whether you’re preparing for an eerie October 31 soirée, diving right into the trick-or-treat mood or just want to sip on a boozy beverage at home this season, a grown-up Halloween drink will instantly elevate your spooky spread.

There are elaborate smoking beverages and drinks with intricate designs, but you don’t have to be an expert mixologist to whip up a quality concoction—anything can be a Witches Brew at a good Halloween party. You can go all-in on the campy atmosphere with a bright orange, pumpkin-focused cocktail, or opt for a more subtly spooky aperitif. For those that want to put in minimal effort and avoid any complex drink recipes, just pour your go-to classic cocktail (or mocktail) into an appropriately frightening glass, perhaps in the shape of a ghost or skull, though you could go back to fall basics with a pumpkin-shaped vessel.

Below, see the scary and sweet Halloween cocktail recipes for the ultimate trick-or-treat.

The Fun Halloween-Themed Cocktails to Get in the Spooky Spirit

Spiked Pumpkin Spiced Latte

Ingredients:
2 oz Casa Del Sol Reposado or Blanco
1 oz premium espresso
.75 oz pumpkin spice syrup
.5 oz coconut milk or oat milk
Cinnamon, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice; shake well for 10 seconds. Strain into a martini or coupe glass. Garnish a sprinkle of grated cinnamon or cinnamon stick.

Spiked Pumpkin Spiced Latte. Nikki Martin

The Scream Queen

  • Courtesy Liz Pearce, Hendrick’s Gin Ambassador

Ingredients:
1 1/2 parts Hendrick’s Original Gin
1/4 part Midori melon liqueur
1/4 part Chareau aloe liqueur
1 part fresh lime juice
3/4 part pineapple gomme
Pinch of salt
Cucumber, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker over ice; shake vigorously and then double strain into a chilled cocktail glass or goblet. Garnish with cucumber broom.

The Scream Queen. Hendrick's

Spooky Spritz

Ingredients:
1 oz Nolet’s Silver Gin
1.5 oz Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit & Rose Vodka
.25 oz Blood orange liqueur
.5 oz fresh lime juice
Splash of agave nectar

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a wine glass or balloon glass over ice. Stir and top with a splash of agave nectar.

Spooky Spritz. Nolet's Silver Gin

Bloody Negroni

Ingredients:
1 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino
1 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter
1 oz Bombay Sapphire gin
Orange peel, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients together; pour into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with orange peel.

Bloody Negroni. Martini and Rossi

Midnight Ritual

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Lalo Tequila
.5 oz Cointreau
.5 oz maple syrup
1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
1 dash orange bitters (optional)
1 tsp activated charcoal

Directions:
Rim glass with black salt. Add tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, orange bitters and maple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Add in charcoal powder. Shake and strain into the rimmed glass over fresh ice.

Midnight Ritual. Lalo

Ghost Roast

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Bib & Tucker Gold Roast Bourbon
.5 shot espresso or cold brew
.25 oz simple syrup
.75 oz Madeira wine
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Lemon peel, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a shaker tin half full of ice. Shake well and strain into a fresh glass. Garnish with lemon peel.

Ghost Roast. Alex Staniloff

Eye of the Spider

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Cutwater Spirits vodka
1 oz Nola coffee liqueur
.5 oz creme de cacao
Whipped topping (4 oz whipped cream, 1 oz cinnamon syrup)

Directions:
Combine ingredients in a cocktail stirring glass. Add ice and stir until ice begins to melt and cocktail is diluted. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Add heavy cream and cinnamon syrup to cocktail shaker. Shake (without ice) until cream turns light and airy. Float whipped cream on top of cocktail.

Optional: Garnish with a hand-drawn spider web and sugar eyeball for a spooky Halloween cocktail.

Eye Of The Spider. Cutwater Spirits

Pumpkin Pie Espresso Martini

Ingredients: 
1.5 oz 818 Tequila Reposado 
1.25 oz espresso 
.75 oz coffee liqueur (such as Mr. Black) 
.5 oz pumpkin butternut spice simple syrup 
Fresh grated nutmeg and a dollop of whipped cream, for garnish 
 
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with lots of ice; shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is cold. Strain and serve into a chilled martini glass; garnish with grated nutmeg and whipped cream.

Pumpkin Pie Espresso Martini. 818 Tequila

The Sexton Blood Moon

Ingredients:
1.5 oz The Sexton Whiskey
1 oz fresh beet juice
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
2 dashes orange bitters
Blood orange peel, for garnish

Directions:
Add ingredients to a cocktail shake with ice; stir vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass; garnish with blood orange peel.

The Sexton Blood Moon. Sexton Whiskey

Tanteo Morgue-rita

Ingredients:
2 oz Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila
3/4 oz agave nectar
1 oz fresh lime juice
1 tbsp activated charcoal powder

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker. Shake well; pour into a salt-rimmed, ice-filled coupe glass.

Tanteo Morgue-rita. Tanteo

Nocturnal Nightcap

  • Courtesy Javelle Taft

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Ketel One Vodka
.5 oz Crown Royal Blackberry 
.5 oz Mr. Black
.5 oz cold brew concentrate
.5 oz vanilla syrup
Guinness 
Blackberries, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients, except for the Guinness, into a shake filled with ice; shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into a highball glass with fresh ice. Top with Guinness and garnish with blackberries.

Nocturnal Nightcap. Ilya Savenok

El Diablo

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Tequila Partida Reposado
.5 oz crème de cassis
.5 oz fresh lime juice
4 oz ginger beer
Lime wedge, for garnish

Directions:
Add tequila and lime juice into a cocktail shaker with ice; shake and strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. Pour the ginger beer to drink and top with crème de cassis. Garnish with lime wedge.

El Diablo. Partida Reposado

Witching Hour

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Cutwater Barrel Rested Gin
.5 oz Amaro Nonino
1 oz valerian root tea
.75 oz falernum
.75 oz lemon
1 dash absinthe

Directions:
Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice; shake. Pour over a glitter ice sphere in a rocks glass; garnish with flamed rosemary and cinnamon wrapped in twine.

Witching Hour. Cutwater

Pumpkin Pie Margarita

  • Makes six servings

Ingredients:
8 oz 21Seeds Valencia Orange Infused Tequila
64 oz apple cider
16 oz ginger ale
1 can pumpkin pie mix
4 dashes pumpkin pie spice
Orange slices (dried or fresh) and ghost marshmallows, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a large bowl or pitcher filled with ice; mix. Pour into glasses and garnish with orange slices and marshmallows.

Pumpkin Pie Margarita. 21 Seeds

Don Muerte

Ingredients
1.5 oz Tequila Don Julio Blanco
.75 oz fresh pineapple juice
.75 oz fresh lime juice
.25 oz agave nectar
5 tsp activated charcoal powder
Lime wheel and edible marigold flower, for garnish

Directions:
Combine tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, agave nectar and activated charcoal into a cocktail shaker with ice; shake vigorously. Strain into a double rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with lime wheel and edible flower.

Don Muerte. Shannon Sturgis

Poison Apple Daiquiri

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Selvarey White Rum
1 oz apple cider
.75 honey syrup (to make, use 3:1 water to honey ratio)
.5 oz fresh lime juice
Apple slice, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled; strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with apple slice.

Poison Apple Daiquiri. SelvaRey

Pumpkin Patch Batch Cocktail

Ingredients:
2 parts Reyka Vodka
2 parts Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
28 ounces pumpkin puree
3 1/2 cups apple cider
1 cup orange juice
1 1/2 cups seltzer water
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 cup orange juice
Lemon slice and cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Directions:
Add water, sugar and ground cinnamon into a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and stir to combine. Cook until sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat and set aside. Next, in a hollowed out pumpkin (or chosen punch bowl or vessel), add pumpkin, apple cider, orange juice, seltzer, lemon juice, vodka and rum. Whisk to combine. Pour in cooled cinnamon mixture and stir again. Garnish with lemon slice and cinnamon sticks.

Pumpkin Patch. Reyka Vodka

Blood Moon Negroni

Ingredients:
1 part Diplomatico Mantuano
1 part sweet vermouth
1 part bitter Italian aperitif
Grapefruit peel, for garnish

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice; stir to combine and chill. Strain into a double old fashioned rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with expressed grapefruit peel.

Blood Moon Negroni. Diplomatico

Bloody Maria

Ingredients: 
2 oz Dulce Vida Lime Tequila 
1/2 oz olive juice
Spicy Bloody Mary mix
Pickle, for garnish

Directions:
Add tequila and Bloody Mary mix into a cocktail shaker. Stir, then add olive juice. Mix well. Pour into a fresh glass over ice and garnish with a pickle.

Bloody Maria.

Blood Moon

Ingredients:
1.5 oz Bacardi Superior
.5 oz Monin Blood Orange Syrup
.5 oz lime juice
2 oz ginger beer
Blood orange slice
Amarena cherry

Directions:
Combine rum, blood orange syrup and lime juice in a shaker with ice; shake vigorously. Strain into a highball glass and top with ginger beer. Garnish with a blood orange slice and cherry.

Blood Moon. Shannon Sturgis

Jack-O’-Lantern Hot Toddy

Ingredients:
 1.5 oz The Botanist
.25-.5 oz honey (if you prefer sweeter, add more)
.25 oz lemon
3 oz Earl Grey tea 
Lemon wheel, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients into a heat-safe glass; mix until combined. Garnish with lemon wheel.

Hot Toddy. The Botanist

Blood and Sand

Ingredients:
1 oz Old Parr Aged 12 Years
.75 oz fresh blood orange juice
.75 oz Cherry Heering (or premium cherry liqueur)
.75 oz sweet vermouth
Cherry, for garnish

Directions:
Combine scotch, blood orange juice, cherry liqueur and sweet vermouth. Shake with ice; strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry.

Blood and Sand. Old Parr

Devil’s Margarita

Ingredients:
1.5 ounces Volcán Tequila Blanco
1 oz fresh lime juice
2/3 oz simple syrup
2/3 oz fruity red wine

Directions:
Pour tequila, lime juice and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice; shake vigorously. Strain into a glass.

Devil’s Margarita. Volcan

Witches Brew

  • Makes eight servings

Ingredients:
8 oz St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
8 oz Grey Goose La Poire
6 oz cucumber-mint juice
2 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz absinthe
16 oz Prosecco or other sparkling wine
Dehydrated pear, mint crown, borage and grated nutmeg, for garnish.

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a large mixing vessel or Halloween punch bowl and stir. Add ice cubes and garnish.

Witches Brew. Grey Goose

Pumpkin Spice Carajillo

Ingredients:
1 oz Lalo Tequila
1 oz espresso
.1 oz Licor 43
1 tbs pumpkin puree
2 dashes mole bitters

Directions:
Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker; shake vigorously. Strain into a fresh glass.

Pumpkin Spice Carajillo. Lalo

Bones Punch

Ingredients: 
2 oz Kraken Black Spiced Rum
3 oz pineapple juice
Splash of grenadine
Halloween candy and cherry, for garnish

Directions:
Combine all ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker. Pour into a fresh glass; garnish with a cherry and bone-shaped candies.

Bones Punch. Kraken
]]> 1456541
 Jet Set: The Amazon Prime Day Travel Deals Worth Buying https://observer.com/list/amazon-prime-day-october-travel-items/ Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1589021 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. Whether you’re already packing for your next adventure or still in the early planning stages, we’re here to help with all your jet-setting needs. Amazon Prime Big Deal Days have arrived, and this year, it runs from October 7 to October 8. The two-day event is the optimal time to stock up on your tried and true travel essentials—or to try out that new product you’ve been contemplating for months. There’s a lot to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to six items that are at the top of our list right now. From the most delectable lotion to a cult-favorite suitcase, here’s what we’re loving and coveting from the Amazon Prime sale.

Amazon Prime Day Travel Essentials

Away Softside Bigger Carry-On Suitcase

Starting off strong with the centerpiece of any jet-setter’s travel wardrobe: the carry-on suitcase. I’m often asked about my favorite luggage, and for the past several years, I’ve remained loyal to Away; I find their bags to be the most reliable, durable and also chic. I’m usually partial to the classic polycarbonate hardshell, but I’ve dabbled in the softside from time to time, and have to admit that it might be even more generous when it comes to creating extra space. And if you’ve been debating scooping one up, this is the time—the Softside Bigger Carry-On is 20 percent off for the Amazon Prime Day sales event, bringing it down from $245 to $196.

Shop now

Away. Away

Felina Velvety Super Soft Lightweight Leggings

If anyone ever discovered just how many pairs of plain black leggings I own, I fear I’d never live it down. But really, is there any item in one’s wardrobe that is worn quite as much as a good pair of black leggings? Especially when traveling, because I simply cannot be bothered to wear actual pantaloons while on a multi-hour journey—asking me to don anything with a buttoned waistband before a redeye is unacceptable behavior. I discovered Felina’s leggings a few years ago, and fell in love with the ultra-lightweight version. These are nothing short of buttery-soft, and while I think that they’re already pretty well-priced, they’re marked down 25 percent for a pack of two during this Prime Day event.

shop now

Felina. Amazon

Anker Charger With USB-C Cable

Despite the fact that my iPhone is so old and busted that it dies by 12 p.m., I almost never have a portable charger with me, which has become a greater issue when I’m traveling for work and realize I am in the middle of the African bush with no outlet for the foreseeable future. While I do have a stack of ancient, largely broken portable chargers in the depths of an old dresser, I’m thinking that this might be the time to finally break down and buy a highly-rated one. I’ll be honest here—I am absolutely inept when it comes to technology, but I’ve heard good things about this new portable charger from Anker, which is apparently quite fast and high-tech, and can even charge a computer and a phone—at the same time! It’s marked down 30 percent for Amazon Prime Day.

shop now

Anker. Anker

Kiehl’s Creme de Corps

I have tried so many different body lotions, but I always find myself coming back to my tried and true Kiehl’s. Admittedly, this absolutely enormous bottle of my beloved Creme de Corps is in no way suitable to take with you on a trip (at least, not in my preferred carry-on, or really even in an enormous trunk, to be honest), but it is a non-negotiable in my routine, especially my pre- and post-travel regimen. Planes, in particular—and really, any kind of travel—tend to be incredibly drying on skin, so I like to absolutely slather myself in this lotion. It’s so hydrating and non-greasy, and it’s one of the only truly moisturizing options that actually seamlessly soaks into skin.

Shop now

Kiehl’s. Amazon

Kindle Essentials Bundle

Anyone who has spoken to me for longer than two minutes is probably aware of how much I adore my Kindle. And before you start waxing poetic about the joy of reading a physical book, I’m going to stop you—because I get it! I was once of the physical book-only faction; I was happy to eagerly debate anyone who dared mention an e-reader. That is, until I was packing for a five-day work trip and realized I would need to bring a second tote bag to fit the inappropriately high number of hardback books I was absolutely certain I’d power through. As a favor to both my back and my wallet, I finally purchased a Kindle Paperwhite on a long-ago Prime Day, and while I still appreciate a physical copy, I am simply obsessed with my Kindle. The fact that I can store countless books on this one relatively tiny device (shoutout to Libby and public libraries in general—you’re doing the Lord’s work) and read without a blaring light overhead? Absolute magic! But enough of my Kindle grandstanding, because you’re just going to have to try it out yourself to appreciate this little wonder—and luckily, these are pretty much always marked down for Amazon Prime events, including the newest 2024 edition, which comes with a fabric cover and power adapter.

Shop now

Amazon. Amazon

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 50

It would be easy to throw a million beauty products in here, and while Amazon Prime events are a good time to stock up on your favorites (and perhaps try a few new ones), I’m not going to list out a whole array of skincare and makeup options to clutter up your space. I will, however, say that sunscreen is by far the most important step in any skincare routine, and you should be applying it every single day—and that includes travel. La Roche-Posay Anthelios never lets me down; the liquid-y formula blends surprisingly well for a mineral SPF, and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin—and it’s 25 percent off right now.

$29.99, Shop now

La Roche-Posay. Amazon
]]> 1589021
 Ralph Lauren Will Open the Polo Bar in London in 2028 https://observer.com/2025/09/polo-bar-ralph-lauren-london-restaurant-opening/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:34:28 +0000 https://observer.com/?p=1588821

Even though Polo Bar has now been open for a decade, the New York restaurant remains one of the city’s most elusive dinner reservations. Scoring a slot has become something of a sport, and those eager to sit among the wood-paneled walls and dine on burgers and martinis while scanning the room for a celebrity sighting (Amal and George Clooney, Taylor Swift, Meghan Markle, Hillary Clinton and Serena Williams are just a few of the famous faces to dine at the establishment) start calling the reservation number the moment spots open up. (For those curious, it opens at 10 a.m. on the dot exactly a month out from your desired dining time—but good luck getting someone to actually answer the phone.)

Now, the restaurant is heading across the pond. Today, Ralph Lauren announced plans to debut The Polo Bar Ralph Lauren in London, set to open at 1 Hanover Square in 2028. The eatery will be located at 1 Hanover Square, in the building formerly known as Vogue House in Mayfair.

The brand’s decision to open a Polo Bar in London isn’t exactly surprising. In fact, it makes total sense—Ralph Lauren already operates 12 stores in London, along with two Ralph’s Coffee locations. Ralph Lauren also maintains a strong presence in the U.K. capital; it is home to Ralph Lauren’s first international flagship, and the brand further cemented its relationship in the city when it became the official outfitter of the Wimbledon tennis championships in 2006. In 2019, Ralph Lauren was made an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, in honor of his influence on global fashion and his philanthropic work.

Interior of the Polo Bar. There is a wooden bar with barstools at the left, and a booth lining the right wall.

“I have always been inspired by the special charm and heritage of the British way of living. There is an effortless grace that is rooted in centuries of tradition—a blend of timeless sophistication, understated ease and natural elegance. That perfect balance of refinement and warmth, and the comfort of sitting around a table enjoying a meal with loved ones, are what my restaurants have always meant to me,” Ralph Lauren, executive chairman and chief creative officer of Ralph Lauren Corporation, shared in a statement.

While Ralph Lauren operates restaurants in New York, Paris, Chicago, Milan and Chengdu, this will be the first permanent Polo Bar location outside of New York City. And if the Manhattan outpost is any indication, expect Polo Bar London to be one of the city’s hardest reservations.

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 The Essentials With Hotelier Mariella Avino: Vintage Umbrellas, MAC Lipstick and Amalfi Coast Magic https://observer.com/list/mariella-avino-palazzo-avino-essentials/ Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:59:05 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1579333 As the co-owner and managing director of Ravello’s glamorous Palazzo Avino, Mariella Avino is well-versed in all things travel and design. The Italian hotelier is involved in every aspect of the Amalfi Coast property, from researching and creating the precise pink-and-white striped vintage umbrellas to use in the pool area, to sourcing artwork, to selecting the merchandise for the hotel’s on-site boutique, The Pink Closet, which opened in 2019.

While hospitality is in Avino’s blood, she didn’t join the hotel in an official capacity until 2011. “Deep down, I always knew that my path would eventually lead me to the hotel,” Avino tells Observer. Her father purchased the property in 1995, and subsequently completed two years’ worth of renovations before opening Palazzo Avino as a hotel in 1997. “Year after year, there were different additions and renovations—the spa, the gardens, the swimming pool. In 2009, we opened the beach club. It’s a project of love—every year, we add bits and pieces to it,” Avino, who runs the hotel with her sister, Attilia, shares.

Two years ago, they renovated Rossellini’s, the Leading Hotel of the World‘s Michelin-starred restaurant, and last year, they renovated the inside bar, Caffè dell’Arte, and refreshed some of the public spaces by reception, adding rattan furniture and plenty of plants. Avino traveled to a gallery in Naples to source artwork, and selected a Joseph Kosuth piece with 18 neon signs, which is now permanently installed in the hotel.

Courtesy Leading Hotels of the World Palazzo Avino.

“We try to be consistent with our history, and respect that in our renovations,” Avino says. “The hotel now has a very specific identity.” On a recent trip to the 42-room hotel, I—like pretty much every other guest at the property—found myself snapping photo after photo of the unapologetically pink decor, particularly the pink-and-white umbrellas. The aesthetic has become so synonymous with the hotel and the area, I assumed they’d been there for decades, but Mariella informed me that they’re actually a relatively new addition to the property, from within the last five years. She had been researching vintage umbrellas, and fell in love with one particular style, but faced another hurdle when it came to actually creating them. “It was not easy to find an artisan who could make them—they have a specific design, but they’re special; they’re made with wood, not steel or an easier material. But I just loved the aesthetic,” she shares, and was able to take the time to properly source and create the umbrellas.

It’s that attention to detail that helps Palazzo Avino stand out, even among the glitzy hotels that dot the Amalfi Coast landscape. The hotel has amassed a dedicated following of in-the-know jet-setters, many of whom eagerly flock to the property summer after summer, sharing photos of those now-iconic pink-and-white umbrellas and sun loungers.

DANILO SCARPATI Mariella Avino in the Pink Closet.

Avino takes a similarly detail-forward approach with the Pink Closet. “I always had a very strong passion for fashion, along with travel and the travel industry. Throughout the years, on every business trip, I would take a couple of days to research local designers. I knew in my mind I always wanted to have a boutique,” Avino tells Observer. While the hotel already operated a small pop-up shop, it wasn’t big enough for what Avino had in mind, and she waited for the right space to really bring her vision to life.

“I was a bit stuck,” she admits. “Then, in 2018, the art gallery right in front of Palazzo Avino went for sale. I said to my dad, ‘Let’s buy the space and do something with it.'” The family purchased the gallery space, and Mariella immediately began researching architects. She chose Cristina Celestino, who had worked with Fendi and Sergio Rossi, and who had, as Avino puts it, “a very nice pink touch in her works.” The Pink Closet opened the following year, and it quickly became popular both with hotel guests and other travelers to the area. Avino takes inspiration from her travels and online research, perusing Instagram and looking into small designers. She’s an ambassador of the Camera della Moda fashion trust, and sources from their list of young designers, as well.

Palazzo Avino will close from October through April, but that doesn’t mean Mariella is taking time off. This off-season, the sisters are working on the on-site cooking school, which Avino is hopeful will debut next year. “Every year we try to explore one topic more than another. It’s nice to write a different chapter in the story every year,” she explains. As Avino comes off another successful summer, she sat down with Observer to share her current essentials, from her go-to Amalfi Coast pastry shop to what’s in her travel bag.

Mariella Avino’s Essentials

Her favorite beauty products

For skincare, I like an Italian brand called Veralab. It’s actually founded by a very strong and smart entrepreneur [Cristina Fogazzi]. I think she has the best products for removing makeup. There’s one product called the Luce Liquida, it means liquid light. It helps keep the skin very bright. It feels like a tonic.

For makeup, I love everything Charlotte Tilbury and MAC. I have a MAC lipstick that I buy almost every month, in the Ruby Woo color. It’s my 100 percent go-to. I rarely go out of the house in the morning without my lipstick.

When I travel a lot, I use a lip mask, as well. I use different brands, I don’t have a specific one I love, but it’s something I always travel with.

MAC Cosmetics. MAC

What’s in her travel bag

I must have my scarf. I have a couple—always black; I love my iconic Louis Vuitton one. I always have a small version of my makeup and skincare to bring with me, and a sweater. I think it’s fundamental to have skincare set and makeup sets. Those are two things I will never travel without, and I have my favorite products that I always keep with me when I travel. Then I always have a black jacket and a pleated skirt. [I bring a] bigger shopping bag and a small purse where I can have the phone and the passport in hand. And comfortable shoes—I love ballerinas. I have to admit, I love the Chanel ones.

Chanel. Chanel

Her favorite hotels on the Amalfi Coast

I really love places with some tradition. In this area, it’s very difficult to pick a favorite hotel—I love Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, Santa Caterina. I love them all, because I think each of them has something very special and different to one another. And I really think we all do keep the soul of the region in a certain direction, each of us with our own visions, but similar in respecting the traditions of the area. I am a big fan of Capri. The J.K. Place is one of my favorite hotels; it’s a strong hotel and brand.

Le Sirenuse. Le Sirenuse

Her Amalfi Coast insider recommendations

For restaurants, I have a favorite in Scala, which is called Da Lorenzo. It’s my favorite place to go when I have a free night. It’s very casual and family-run; it’s a very special place with a lot of heart. For shops, I love the Cameo and Coral Factory. It’s a coral shop next to the Duomo in the square. They have a selection of jewelry, also. The founder, unfortunately, passed away, but the daughter has the same soul, and she keeps the special soul of the place going. For pastries, I love Pansa Amalfi. They have the best pasticciotto with lemon cream.

A place that inspired her

I loved going to India—it was one of the last big trips I did, and I found lots of inspiration there, especially in terms of the colors, the textiles, the mix of materials. It was very, very special. We went to Jaipur—the Pink City—and to Agra, Udaipur, and New Delhi, which I loved. We stayed at the Lake Palace in Udaipur, and I loved the atmosphere there. I want to go back soon.

Lake Palace in Udaipur. Lake Palace

A favorite from the Pink Closet

I am a fan of rattan, and I found a local artisan who makes these bags for us in natural rattan and in different colors, from yellow, pink and red. It’s a vintage look, and we sell so many of them. You can tell that they’re artisanal, because they are all very different, and you can see that they are not coming out of a machine. That’s a special part of it, and the number one item we sell.

The Pink Closet. Leading Hotels of the World

What she’s watching

I have a 14-month-old baby, so time is really not on my side. I didn’t really have time to read books this summer or watch television. I do indulge in recipe videos, which is something I love. I love cooking, even if I have very limited time. It’s something I love looking at—cooking and makeup videos. Videos, at this point, it’s easier.

What she’s cooking

I am a pasta lover and I love making pasta. Simple pasta with the tomatoes, but making pasta dough and preparing it. I mastered the spaghetti with clams, which seems easy to make but is not that easy! I think it is one of the most difficult ones to make. One of my specialties, as well, is making the Neapolitan moka for coffee. I like to use the one from the ’50s and before.

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 The Black Leather Jacket Is Still the Ultimate Cool Girl Staple https://observer.com/list/best-black-leather-jackets-women/ Wed, 24 Sep 2025 18:30:25 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1451578 When it comes to powerhouse wardrobe staples, the black leather jacket stands a step above the rest. A reliable leather jacket instantly elevates any look with that cool girl edge, no matter the occasion. This piece of outerwear is the epitome of versatility—depending on the silhouette, a black leather jacket pairs just as well with a delicate silk slip dress as it does with worn-in denim and a t-shirt.

While classic leather jackets can be worn year-round, they’re especially useful during spring and fall, also known as peak layering season. An oversized silhouette, perhaps with a warmly lined interior, pairs well over a cozy sweater as temperatures start to drop, while a lightweight lambskin elevates a classic tank and jeans ensemble on milder days.

The motorcycle jacket is perhaps the most ubiquitous shape, but it’s not the only black leather style to choose from—especially in today’s fashion landscape. At this point, there’s a black leather jacket for every scenario, whether you’re partial to the aforementioned classic leather moto jacket, a tailored blazer or a bomber silhouette. Below, see the best leather jackets to shop now.

The Best Women’s Leather Jackets

Saint Laurent Leather Biker Jacket

Saint Laurent’s classic biker style is quite possibly the crème de la crème of leather motorcycle jackets. Yes, it’s pricey, but this is an investment piece that you’ll wear forever. Crafted in Italy from a soft yet structured buttery lambskin leather, with a slim silhouette that hits right at the waist—a staple for years to come.

$5,490, Shop Now

Saint Laurent. Saint Laurent

Rohé Oversized Leather Jacket

Amsterdam-based brand Rohé is one of those if “you know, you know” type of designers. Their mid-weight leather jacket is outfitted with military-inspired knotted toggles instead of the usual heavy hardware buttons. Crafted from 100 percent sheepskin, the paneled design is oversized, but won’t overwhelm your frame.

$1,165, shop now

Rohe. Rohe

Polo Ralph Lauren Sheepskin Leather Moto Jacket

Leave it to Polo Ralph Lauren to craft the ultimate cool girl, all-American moto-style quality leather jacket. Composed of full-grain sheepskin leather, with notched lapels and multiple zippered pockets, this jacket is exactly what you’ve come to expect from the brand—classic, high-quality designs.

$998, SHOP NOW

Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren

Acne Studios Black Leather Biker Jacket

Acne’s leather moto jacket is for the traditionalist. A boxier (but not too bulky) fit, silver hardware and belt, with a surplus of zippers and pockets. The slightly looser silhouette is an asset if you want to wear it over heavier sweaters.

$900, SHOP NOW

Acne Studios. Acne Studios

Khaite Laybin Jacket

New York-based brand Khaite’s chic collarless leather jacket is a welcome deviation from the sea of moto-style coats. This cropped black leather coat features flap pockets and press-stud closures; the bold hardware is statement-making without verging into gaudy territory.

$2,660, shop now

Khaite. Khaite

L’Agence Kenzie Leather Blazer

We could write a whole other story on leather blazers, but if you want to peruse just one, consider this luxurious option. The style combines the best of ladylike apparel and menswear, with a double-breasted front, peaked lapels and oversized fit.

$1,013, SHOP NOW

L’agence. L'agence

Rudsak Everleigh Women’s Leather Bomber Jacket

Rudsak’s Everleigh jacket is a sleek, feminine take on the bomber. Constructed from soft leather with a clean, classic silhouette, this piece features a rib-knit collar, hem and cuffs that add an unexpected cozy softness to the often-harsh material.

$895, SHOP NOW

Rudsak. Rudsak

Madewell Shrunken Zip-Front Jacket in Leather

Madewell’s zip-front jacket is for the minimalist that prefers less flashy hardware. Made from a soft pebbled leather, this topper has a point collar and flap pockets, with a slightly shrunken fit for a subtle crop at the waist. Wear with your favorite straight-leg jeans and a classic white T-shirt.

$498, SHOP NOW

Madewell. Madewell

Favorite Daughter The Charles Leather Trench

Embrace all the Matrix energy in this black leather trench coat. Polished, dramatic and just over-the-top enough, this is the jacket for the woman who makes a jaw-dropping entrance just by walking into the room. A soft boxy, double-breasted silhouette is offset by a cinchable waist belt, while faux horn buttons add a little more luxury.

$1,598, shop now

Favorite Daughter. Favorite Daughter

AllSaints Dalby Slim Fit Leather Biker Jacket

AllSaints is known for their high-quality, genuine leather jackets, which means the brand has no shortage of styles to choose from—that said, this particular slim-fit topper is one of the most timeless choices out there.

$569, SHOP NOW

AllSaints. AllSaints

Nili Lotan Chamonix Leather Jacket

Nili Lotan puts a ladylike spin on the leather jacket with the Chamonix lambskin topper. The charming Peter Pan collar and gold button details are feminine and sophisticated, finished off with a straight, softly cropped silhouette.

$2,805, shop now

Nili Lotan. Nili Lotan

Levi’s Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Levi’s is perhaps best known for jeans and denim jackets, but don’t sleep on the brand’s other offerings. This classic faux leather jacket is a style that’s just the right amount of edgy, and if you’re not a fan of real leather but don’t want to give up on quality, this is a great vegan option.

$120, SHOP NOW

Levi’s. Levi's

Toteme Army Leather Jacket

This minimalist, oversized leather jacket just oozes cool-girl sophistication. Made of sheepskin leather, with a relaxed fit, flap jackets and paneled sleeves, this is the transitional staple that effortlessly takes you from an 8 a.m. work breakfast all the way to a dinner date.

$2,400, SHOP NOW

Toteme. Toteme

Victoria Beckham Leather Jacket

Victoria Beckham’s oversized leather bomber is a modern interpretation of the varsity jacket, with raglan sleeves, a buttoned front and elasticated hem. It might be inspired by collegiate wear, but it’s very much a grown-up design.

$1,790, SHOP NOW

Victoria Beckham. Victoria Beckham

Quince 100 Percent Leather Café Racer Jacket

Inspired by the vintage motorcycle apparel, Quince’s leather Café Racer is a modern take on the jacket, with a snap collar, two front zippered pockets and accent stitching on the shoulders.

$180, SHOP NOW

Quince. Quince
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 Jet Set: The Classic Fall Weekend Packing List https://observer.com/list/fall-weekend-trip-what-to-pack/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:30:00 +0000 https://observer.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1581069 Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. Whether you’re already packing for your next adventure or still in the early planning stages, we’re here to help with all your jet-setting needs. Fall is in the air, and with it, the start of the autumnal weekend trip. Whether you’re planning a leaf-peeping adventure in New England, an off-season seaside getaway or a fall foliage jaunt, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed accordingly. After the relative ease of packing for summer trips, where you can simply throw a swimsuit, cover-up and a pair of sandals into your straw tote and call it a day, an autumn trip can feel like more of a slog. But it all comes down to cultivating the right fall capsule wardrobe for travelers, with versatile staples that seamlessly take you from a day of apple picking to an evening of sipping vino under a heat lamp. From polished black boots and a cuddly cashmere cardigan to a minimalist ribbed turtleneck and the dark-wash jeans of your dreams, here’s what to pack for a fall weekend trip.

The Fall Weekend Packing List

DL1961 Halle Straight High Rise Instasculpt 29″ Jeans

I’ve been on the hunt for a good pair of dark-wash jeans that I can actually sit for more than two minutes in for at least a year now, and am thrilled to say that I did, in fact, find them. A crisp, dark indigo wash that isn’t giving ’80s mom jeans *and* has plenty of stretch, these DL1961 straight-leg pants are flattering and comfortable, with a high-rise waist and high-retention elastane technology. The darker wash adds a more polished feel than a light wash, making these more suitable for an evening out than your faded summer jeans.

$219, shop now

DL1961. DL1961

Favorite Daughter the City Blazer

A blazer is already a fall capsule wardrobe staple for any traveler, but this black version steps it up a notch. A slim fit, cotton-cashmere ribbed cuffs and faux horn buttons bring warmth and polish, while the medium-weight material means you could easily wear this as your only jacket when it’s just a touch brisk out.

$398, shop now

Favorite Daughter. Favorite Daughter

Lake Madeline Sweater in English Navy Banker Stripe

Looking for a transitional sweater that will help bridge the gap when you’re traveling somewhere that’s 68 degrees during the day and dropping to 50 at night? Try Lake’s striped cotton turtleneck. Pair it with a straight-leg jean, loafers and a suede shoulder bag.

$178, shop now

Lake. Lake Pajamas

Offline By Aerie Thumbs Up Fitted Ribbed T-Shirt

The ever-elusive perfect tee is a non-negotiable for any travel wardrobe, but don’t sleep on a solid long-sleeve version, too. Aerie’s buttery soft black ribbed shirt is the ultimate layering staple, and we’re particularly fond of the thumb holes—it just adds another facet of coziness, especially while en route.

$39.95, shop now

Aerie. Aerie

Cozy Earth Oversized Sunday Cashmere Cardigan

A cuddly cashmere cardigan is another fall essential for the traveler. This particular oversized silhouette is a layering powerhouse; it’s comfortable and warm enough to brave that frigid plane air, but not so cumbersome that you’re immediately attempting to subtly wipe that sheen of sweat off your neck.

$228, shop now

Cozy Earth. Cozy Earth

Everlane The Luxe Rib Turtleneck

There’s something so effortlessly chic about a simple white turtleneck. It’s just so much more polished and sophisticated than a classic crewneck or V-neck, whether you’re wearing yours tucked into a leather skirt or pairing it with a pair of crisp dark-wash jeans, a belt and minimalist boot, for that ultimate ’90s fall feeling.

$58, shop now

Everlane. Everlane

M. Gemi The Delfina

Crafted from smooth nappa leather, these black ankle boots are the minimalist shoe of your fall style dreams. The low kitten heel adds a little oomph to a more formal outfit, but is also manageable to don during the daytime. Sleek, minimalist and ’90s chic.

$498, shop now

M. Gemi. M. Gemi

Thursday Boots Penny Loafer

The loafer is the unsung hero of autumnal wardrobes. A classic black leather penny loafer seamlessly elevates a casual jeans and T-shirt look, but just as easily pairs with a classic black dress. Once you start packing a loafer, this shoe will become your go-to—it makes getting dressed while on the go so much easier.

$140, shop now

Thursday Boots. Thursday Boots

Splendid x @Cellajaneblog Icon Coat

Coats can be controversial when it comes to autumn packing, at least when it’s in the peak transitional stages of the season. But if you’re planning a trip where you know you’ll need more than a cardigan, but definitely don’t need to haul an actual jacket, look no further than Splendid’s Icon Coat. It’s more of a sweater-coat, with an open-front, shawl collar and knit sleeves with ribbed cuffs, and just might be the ultimate piece of fall outerwear. The older version of this jacket has been my go-to for trips ranging from the Scottish Highlands to Paris to NorCal—it’s a versatile dream.

$168, shop now

Splendid. Splendid.
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