Winter is, of course, the season that brings us the most wonderful time of the year. With Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and ringing in the New Year, there’s a seemingly endless barrage of festivities. This can seem daunting to many of us, so why not, this year, focus less on consuming and more on living in the moment and enjoying life? Instead of fretting over presents and getting the decorations just right, spend time with one another and do what makes you happy. If you enjoy flowers the most, make sure that garlands, holly, and poinsettias are the standout décor. If you enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas, string popcorn and cranberries, and don’t hesitate to let the children in the family trim the tree as well (haphazard ornament placement and all), you can tweak it later. 

Let’s face it: winter is a time for serving looks! If you’re not lucky enough to be living it up in a tropical climate, take advantage of it and, of course, keep warm with stylish layers. Whether you’re breaking in a new pair of chic leather boots, rocking an essential black turtleneck, or keeping cozy in cashmere and wool blends, you’re bound to find fashions to enjoy. Cute sweaters, cardigans, scarves, leggings, gloves, and a matching pom pom hat, oh my! Now, I know most people will shirk at the idea of real fur, so make sure it’s either vintage or faux. There’s nothing more stylish (or warm) than a shearling coat, and if you’re feeling really cute, take a cue from Ali MacGraw in “Love Story” and try crocheted knits as your new winter gear. Also, remember that winter white is always a good idea: it’s simple, understated, and always looks luxurious.

There’s nothing more beautiful or peaceful than freshly fallen snow. A walk in the woods in winter is one of the loveliest, most tranquil things a person can do. Listening to snow crunch underfoot while observing animal tracks on an otherwise untouched blanket of snow is any nature lover’s dream and also pretty irresistible. Watching the sun glint off of snow, through pine and cedar trees, illuminating snowflakes (none of which is alike) is pure poetry. Go ahead and look for the beauty in winter this upcoming season because, after all, there’s so much to find.

“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” -Edith Sitwell

Winter is the time for spending more time indoors. Not only does it get dark early, but the days and nights are cold, so there’s nothing better than cozying up by a crackling fire with a good book, a cup of cocoa or mulled wine, and relaxing with loved ones. Winter is also the season for comfort food! Hot, hearty meals and favorite desserts are one of the best things about winter: when your kitchen is filled with the aromas of nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves, it’s undoubtedly enticing and extremely inviting. Now is the time to start baking!