Holiday 2021

Christmas Wrap: Retailers Transcend Headwinds

Christmas Wrap: Retailers Transcend Headwinds

Retailers are on a high. The question is, for how long?Reports over the last four days indicate retailers emerged from the 2021 holiday season with sales gains of between 8 and 10 percent, and healthy fourth-quarter profits based on extensive full-price selling and well-managed inventories.
A more precise picture of the season’s outcome will show up in February and March when retailers issue fourth-quarter and year-end figures. For now, they’re sounding quite pleased at their performances against the combined impact of COVID-19, supply chain delays, labor shortages, inflation and stockouts, and are optimistic heading into the new year. They’re hopeful the headwinds encountered in 2021 won’t be as acute in 2022 and that consumer demand will remain high, while concerned about anniversary-ing government stimulus checks, that comparisons to 2021 results will be tough, and that COVID-19 remains a big wild card as the Omicron variant causes case numbers to soar once again.

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On Sunday, Mastercard reported that 2021 U.S. holiday retail sales, excluding automotive, increased 8.5 percent year-over-year this season. Online sales grew 11 percent compared to the same period last year, Mastercard’s preliminary insights showed. The Mastercard SpendingPulse measures in-store and online retail sales across all forms of payment and defines the holiday season as Nov. 1 through Dec. 24, though many retailers triggered holiday campaigns in October this year.
“Shoppers were eager to secure their gifts ahead of the retail rush, with conversations surrounding supply chain and labor supply issues sending consumers online and to stores in droves,” said Steve Sadove, senior adviser for Mastercard and former chief executive officer and chairman of Saks Inc. “Consumers splurged throughout the season, with apparel and department stores experiencing strong growth as shoppers sought to put their best-dressed foot forward.”
Mastercard indicated that stores were up 8.1 percent, year-over-year, and that e-commerce rose 11 percent compared to 2020.
“Overall, the holiday season started earlier. There were less promotions and there were good sell-throughs,” said Dana Telsey, CEO and chief research officer of the Telsey Advisory Group. “The last week into Christmas and Super Saturday was more muted than usual. Yet everything we are seeing out there…says it will be a profitable fourth quarter with top line increases, too. Whether it was curbside pickups or buy online, pick up in store, everyone used new ways to make it work and they are here to stay.”
“Strong and steady,” is how one retail CEO, speaking anonymously, commented on the November-to-December period. “Online remained in high growth as store business returned. There was a broad group of category strengths, from leather goods to accessories, fragrances and jewelry. Dress-up in all categories came back strong.”
“Definitely November pulled volume out of December,” said another senior-level retail executive at a national chain. “People did shop earlier because there was so much noise in the news about shortages. Customers took it seriously. In the last 10 days of the season, Omicron took over the news cycle. It was a good season but not as good as it could have been due to the pandemic.”

“Super Saturday, like Black Friday, saw overall visits down for many retailers, yet the push to extend the season earlier looks to have benefited the wider sector,” Ethan Chernofsky, vice president of marketing for Placer.ai, which tracks traffic in stores, said in an email to WWD.
“While retail giants like Target and Walmart saw visits down on key shopping days, overall visits were in line if not above 2019 levels largely because of the capacity to effectively communicate with customers during this period and incentivize off-peak visits. And this is a major success because it enabled both visitors and retailers alike to gain more from a retail season that could have been upended by supply chain concerns, labor shortages, and rising COVID-19 cases.”
Chernofsky suggested that retailers drove more sales off of fewer visits.

Crowds at Target were smaller on peak days but for the 2021 holiday season overall, they at least matched 2019 levels.
Courtesy Photo

Craig Johnson, president of the Customer Growth Partners research and consulting firm, said he was “standing pat” with CGP’s upped forecast (primarily due to inflation) for U.S. holiday sales totaling $840 billion, representing a 10.2 percent gain over last year. His previous forecast was for a 6.7 percent increase to $813 billion.
Johnson cited “a sharp lull in business” in the beginning of December until Dec. 11, when things started to pick up. He said Dec. 22 to 24 saw “huge numbers,” ending the season on a high note.
He said one difference between CGP’s holiday estimate versus Mastercard’s is that CGP’s estimate extends to Dec. 26, while Mastercard’s goes through Dec. 24. Also, CGP’s holiday forecast spans all retail sales except autos, gasoline and restaurants; Mastercard said it excludes the automotive sector.
Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation sees holiday retail sales rising as much as 11.5 percent from last year to $859 billion. The latest figures from software giant Adobe indicate that In the week after Cyber Monday (Nov. 30 to Dec. 6), consumers spent $26.3 billion online, which is down 7.1 percent from last year when COVID-19 was even more disruptive to retail but up 40.1 percent from 2019. In the Dec. 7 to 13 period, $25.3 billion was spent online, which is down 2.4 percent year-over-year, but up 36.9 percent from 2019.
Sunday, the day after Christmas, saw plenty of gift card redemptions because people are worried about shutdowns, Johnson said. “Clearly, there was a COVID-19 factor,” he said.
While apparel was a strong holiday seller, “the real hero was tech — home tech devices like air fryers, massage guns, laptops, door ring systems and video games,” said Johnson. “The strongest part of apparel was performance wear,” from brands such as Lululemon, Under Armour and Athleta.
Johnson noted that for the Dec. 26 to 31 period, sometimes referred to as the “second season,” retailers bring out fresh merchandise at full price. Most retailers planned ahead, diversified their sourcing and had backup plans around supply chain delays.
Looking ahead, “If you just took the consumer fundamentals — the savings rate, personal income growth, employment numbers and household balance sheets — we think the holiday 2021 season augurs for a strong 2022. You do still have the uncertainty of the supply chain, which is on the road to being solved. By the second quarter, most of the kinks will have been worked out, but COVID-19 is the real wild card. Inflation cuts two ways. It nominally increases the sales comps, but reduces spending power,” said Johnson.

The Saks.com luxury e-commerce platform experienced “strong performance this holiday season, which as expected kicked off with customers shopping earlier, demonstrated by high demand throughout November and into early December,” a spokeswoman told WWD. “Top categories included outerwear, women’s shoes, handbags and beauty, especially within fragrance.”
The Saks Fifth Avenue stores “also continued to have strong performance through the holiday season, driven by men’s, fragrance, women’s shoes and jewelry. Top-performing locations included Boca Raton, Fla.; Atlanta; Beverly Hills, Calif.; New Orleans, and Philadelphia,” the spokeswoman said.
Neiman Marcus Group did not comment on its holiday business.
“I spent last week with three of my senior leaders and some people on my leasing team visiting 10 of our shopping centers. Traffic patterns were pretty consistent, particularly in the north. We are seeing traffic beating 2019 levels,” Stephen Yalof, CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers Inc., said Friday. “People are shopping outdoors and we’ve got the value brands shoppers are looking for. I didn’t see a tremendous impact on supply chains at all. People anticipated shortages being a lot worse than they actually were. The big national brands were packed with inventory, and well staffed. I thought the surge of Omicron would have a big traffic hit this week. That’s not what we saw. Our parking lots were packed.” He also said retailers and brands were taking additional percentages off, but retailers generally held back on breaking price this year. Shoppers seemed to gravitate more to accessories, jewelry and cosmetics last week.
“I’m very optimistic about next year,” Yalof said. At the ICSC real estate conference in Las Vegas in December, “I was very, very surprised by how many retailers participated but even more so by the new stores they plan on in 2022 and 2023, particularly in our space. We are making a lot of deals with retailers. Those with a few stores now want more. American Eagle is starting to roll out its Offline athleisure brand. It’s starting to make its way into the outlets.”
Brooks Brothers posted strong sales early in the season because customers were spooked by supply chain issues, according to Ken Ohashi, CEO. “They were bombarded with a lot of noise about [potential shortages]. So we pulled a lot of business forward and will end the year strong.”

The most popular category was sportswear for gift giving, he noted. “Our sportswear penetration is the highest it’s ever been.” Ohashi said customers “navigated to novelty,” led by sweaters and knitwear; classic pieces held their own.
“We’re really excited about 2022,” he said. “There’s still a lot of anxiety in the air, but there’s also a lot of excitement with several collaborations coming next year, and that paves the way for a great spring season.”
Ken Giddon, president of Rothmans, characterized his holiday business overall as “great,” adding: “I expected the last few days before Christmas to be duds, but they were good. The challenge has been staffing. Every day we get another member of our team testing positive” for COVID-19. “But we made it to Christmas.”
Giddon said his men’s stores did not sell a lot of tailored clothing this year, but accessories such as belts, gloves and socks performed well as did “comfortable sportswear” from brands such as Faherty and Rails. “We didn’t sell a lot of athleisure, because everyone already owns that, but comfortable sportswear was good because from an emotional level, it’s cozy, and from a practical level, guys are not going to be back in the office in January or February. I think January will be challenging because of COVID-19 — so many people are infected in the New York area so I hope we don’t get shut down again. But I’m optimistic for after January when we hopefully get over the hump.”

Holiday bestseller: Rue21’s Public Enemy collection.

“Business was strong this holiday season and it started earlier than ever,” said Bill Brand, CEO of the Rue21 specialty chain. “Holiday bestsellers included sweaters, T-shirts and jeans, and our customers also loved our party dresses, sleep pants and gift sets. We remained laser-focused on delivering culturally relevant new products throughout the holidays so our customers could express their individuality such as our exclusive collection with Public Enemy and Defend Brooklyn that dropped last week.
“Our customers were self-purchasing as much as shopping for gifts,” Brand added. “We included two gift-with-purchase days that not only drove ADS [average dollar sale], but increased enrollment in our Rue21 Rewards loyalty program, which now has seven million members. We also opened three new stores during the holiday season. They’re all exceeding hurdle rates. We’re entering the new year with inventory in a strong position, and we’ve already started delivering pre-spring looks such as color-blocking and activewear that our customers are responding to.”
Additional findings from Mastercard revealed:
• For the 75 days between Oct. 11 and Dec. 24, Mastercard reported that total retail sales were up 8.6 percent year-over-year.
• Black Friday marked the top spending day of the 2021 holiday season yet again. For Black Friday and the Saturday and Sunday after, shoppers drove U.S. retail sales up 14.1 percent year-over-year. In-store sales rebounded, increasing 16.5 percent year-over-year; e-commerce sales saw sustained growth, up 4.9 percent.
• Whether consumers were shopping for themselves or for loved ones, the jewelry sector experienced some of the strongest growth over 2020 and 2019.
• E-commerce made up 20.9 percent of total holiday 2021 retail sales, up from 20.6 percent in 2020 and 14.6 percent in 2019. “The channel continues to experience elevated growth as consumers enjoy the ease of holiday browsing and buying in the comfort of their own homes,” Mastercard reported.
With contributions from Jean E. Palmieri

The 50 Best Wellness Gifts to Give This Holiday Season

The 50 Best Wellness Gifts to Give This Holiday Season

Wellness is more than just a buzzword, folks, and we can assure you it’s here to stay. Health is most definitely the new wealth, and it’s not going anywhere. In fact, as a society, we are prioritizing mental health, cleaner beauty products, better-for-you ingredients, exercise and recovery more than ever before. Whether it was the pandemic or just plain evolution, there are a plethora of products out there that claim to improve the quality of life. 
But wellness comes in all different shapes, sizes and forms, which makes it a win-win gift-giving category. By giving the gift of wellness, you’re inspiring a healthier lifestyle with the rush of opening a shiny new present. So, what are the best wellness gifts you ask? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Our team of experts scoured the market to research and review the best wellness gifts of 2021 with style, function and price point in mind. From sleek fitness gadgets to life-changing kitchen appliances and self-care sets for just about every body part, you’re bound to find some type of wellness gift for the people on your shopping list. 

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Put wellness first this year and skip the fashion gifts for women and for men (although we’ve got that covered, too). From the best luxury candles and candle gift sets that turn your home into a sanctuary to the best spa gift baskets for a zen at-home experience, we have a recommendation for it. And if you’re looking for a deeper dive into the best bath bomb sets, the best jade rollers, general skin care tools or the best sleep masks, we’ve got the skinny on those, too. But for now, shop this lovely list of the 50 best wellness gifts of 2021. Snag the decadent CBD nut butter, luxurious crystal silk eye mask and the best infrared sauna blanket before it’s too late. And, don’t forget to treat yourself while you’re at it!
Bala The Hourglass Roller
If they are a true wellness guru, they have the OG Bala Bangles, they might even have the Bala ring. What they don’t have in their aesthetically pleasing at-home fitness bin is the latest and greatest foam roller from Bala’s floor series. This isn’t your typical recovery roller at the gym. It’s specially sculpted to feel soft yet provide firm support to massage those muscles in a comfortable rollout.

Bala Hourglass Roller

$45

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HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
By now, you know we’re huge fans of The HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket. This splurge-worthy gift will detoxify, relax and warm through safe infrared bulbs in the comfort of your home. The laundry list of benefits make this a top item on every wellness guru’s wish list.

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket V3

$499

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Baina Green and White Roman Pool Towel
Name a more aesthetically-pleasing towel, we’ll wait. The Baina checkered towel can be used for the pool, bath time and most definitely for those #selfcaresunday all-wrapped-up mirror selfies. It’s made in Portugal from the most luxurious organic materials and is just enough of a splurge, turning a mundane experience into something special.

Baina Green and White Roman Pool Towel

$105

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The Five Minute Journal
Wellness gurus claim that documented guided gratitude is the best way to start your day. And the number one reason why people don’t journal is because it’s too time consuming. The Five Minute Journal is exactly what it sounds like. For just five minutes a day, the structured exercises in this book will bring on more mindfulness and an expanded consciousness.

The Five Minute Journal

$34

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Vegamour Gro Hair Serum
Healthy hair is coveted by all. The Vegamour Gro Hair serum is a shiny step in a self-care process that brings strong, hydrated, full hair back after years of damage. The result is 52% fuller hair after after a few months of use — just check the hundreds of glowing user reviews if you don’t believe us.

Vegamour GRO Hair Serum

$50

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Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Air Purifier HP04
Clean air is all the rage these days in a Covid world. While it should always be a priority, the pandemic made the demand for air purifiers skyrocket. Just like Dyson’s top-rated hair dryer, the brand’s air purifier is the best in the biz. It’s a heater, a fan, and more importantly, it gets rid of bacteria, toxins and allergens in the air. It’s super high tech and connects to WiFi so you can monitor and adjust air quality in real time. The list of features goes on and on, but take it from us, this is one tried-and-true splurge-worthy item worth your pretty penny.

Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Air Purifier

$649.99 
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Emma Lewishman Illuminating Creme
A post-cleanse, morning face cream sets the tone for your entire day. And when it’s Emma Lewishman’s Illuminating Brighten Your Day Creme, every day starts on the right foot. It’s ultra-rich and moisturizing, but feels super light as it slowly seeps into the skin’s barrier. A daily face cream isn’t something to skimp on, and this piece of self care makes the perfect gift.

Emma Lewishman Illuminating Creme

$78

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Beast Blender
Say hello to the perfect smoothie. This personal Beast blender tops all others on the market. With the touch of a button, it goes through a quieter blending process that uses an intermittent pulse to perfectly liquify or cream-ify your nutrients. Plus, it looks chic as hell on any countertop.

Beast Blender

$155

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APL Women’s Streamline Sneakers
Consider these your go-to sneaker for your neighborhood walks, training sessions at the gym or treadmill jogs. They also provide support for running errands and look cute with any athleisure outfit.

APL Streamline Sneakers

$300

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The Beauty Chef Omega Elixer
This omega elixer from The Beauty Chef is the beauty industry’s best kept secret to naturally hydrated skin, especially in the cold winter months. One teaspoon of the citrus vanilla elixer can be taken alone or mixed into teas and foods. It’s made with all-natural ingredients like chia seed oil, evening primrose oil and fermented algae.

The Beauty Chef Omega Elixer

$59

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Bearaby Organic Cotton Weighted Blanket
Anyone that owns a weighted blanket will tell you how much it’s changed their lives. Whether you’re looking for a quick nap or need to decompress after a stressful day, the added weight over your body feels like a warm hug. The chunky Bearaby knit brings the benefits of the weight without overheating you in the most stylish bed topper.

Bearaby Organic Cotton Weighted Blanket

$249

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The Route Day Drink
The Route Beauty carefully crafted the most perfect pick-me-up spritz. The Day Drink will freshen up the afternoon slump sans caffeine. It’s the perfect hydration tonic made with cucumber and essential minerals to put a pep in your step — it’s so refreshing, you’ll want to drink it!

The Route Day Drink

$50

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Teapigs Licorice and Peppermint Tea Bags
Not all tea is created equal. And if you’ve ever tried Teapigs, you know that for a fact. The licorice peppermint flavor is a standout, but you can’t go wrong with any. Even nondrinkers love the bold soothing flavor of this top-rated tea brand.

Teapigs Licorice and Peppermint Tea Bags

$24

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SolaWave Wand and Serum
Going into 2022, beauty junkies are all about the benefits of red light therapy. The SolaWave Wand is the new jade roller. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles with therapeutic warmth and microcurrents like an expensive spa facial in the comfort of your home, and in five minutes! It works best when paired with the serum.

The Solawave Wand and Serum Kit

$181

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Stasher Bags
Consider Stasher Bags a must-have kitchen item going into 2022. The reusable silicone bags are better for the planet, reducing plastic baggy waste. Plus, they can be thrown in the microwave and dishwasher. It’s a worth-it investment because you’ll never have to buy baggies again.

Stasher Silicone Reusable Bags

$46

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Alo Yoga Airbrush High Waist Flutter Leggings and Sports Bra
Everyone and their mother is obsessed with Alo Yoga, and for good reason. Once you feel how buttery soft and perfectly body-hugging their material is, you’ll never want to take your Alo ‘fit off.

Alo Yoga Air Brush High Waist Flutter Leggings and Sports Bra

$180

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Kanjo Premium Acupressure Mat
The popularity of acupressure mats soared with at home-fitness tools over the Covid-19 lockdown. This Chinese Therapy version is designed to help treat anxiety and chronic pain, boost blood flow and endorphins and improve sleep.

Kanjo Premium Acupressure Mat

$80

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Seed Daily Synbiotic
Seed is like the “It Girl” of probiotics on the wellness scene right now. Mainly because it’s more than just a probiotic. This daily synbiotic has both pro and pre-biotics that work in harmony to keep your gut and body healthy.

Seed Daily Synbiotic

$50

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Camelbak Classic Light Bike Hydration
Wellness gurus love a good outdoor adventure. Whether they’re on a bike ride, a day hike or a ski trip, it’s vital to stay hydrated. Camelbak makes that easy with this Classic Light Bike Hydration pack. Technically it’s for biking, but we tested it for multiple outdoor activities and found that it provides sufficient hydration while still feeling super lightweight on your back.

CamelBak Classic Light Bike Hydration Pack

$47.00 
$44

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Supernal Cosmic Glow Oil
This silky Supernal oil will be your new favorite step in your skin-care routine. Made from a blend of oils fortified with vitamin C and omegas, it penetrates the skin quickly while leaving a glowing, soothing finish.

Cosmic Glow Oil Supernal

$108

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Glossier The Skincare Edit
If you have Instagram, you’ve seen Glossier swarm the bathroom counters of pretty much every beauty guru. This lineup isn’t just an internet fad. The products are packaged nicely and work really great. You can’t go wrong with the travel-friendly Skincare Edit, with a full skin-care routine lineup that’s TSA-approved.

Glossier The Skincare Edit

$50

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Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
Athleisure calls for a hands-free belt bag that you can run errands in without having to worry about a purse hanging over your shoulder. This under-$50 gift from Lululemon will please pretty much anyone.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

$38

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Manduka Yoga Grip Gel
Avid yogis know the frustration of slipping on their mat during downward dog, or especially when they’re trying to nail a new pose and have achieved both strength and flexibility to get there. Manduka’s Yoga Grip Gel solves that problem.

Manduka Yoga Grip Gel

$15

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J.R. Watkins Aloe and Green Tea Lotion
Consider this the answer when you’re on a tight gift budget but still want to give something nice. Everyone can always use a pump of nourishing body lotion. This J.R. Watkins Aloe and Green Tea lotion is the perfect under-$20 present that feels a bit more luxe than Bath and Body Works.

J.R. Watkins Aloe and Green Tea Lotion

$15.94 
$15

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 Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
One of the best essential oil diffusers you can buy, this stone version from Vitruvi once had an 8,000-person waitlist. And now, the brand launched a collection of new colors in the same cult-favorite stone design. It feels like a work of art on your side table that projects spa vibes into any space.

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

$119

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Parachute Waffle Robe
Plush bathrobes are great and all, but they’re not always functional and take up tons of closet space. The waffle robe however, is still super cozy, soft and warm without the bulk. It’s like your fancy spa robe but now yours to own thanks to Parachute, who makes some of the best bathrobes on the market.

Parachute Waffle Robe

$119

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The Ergatta Rower
It’s a chic fitness machine that almost feels like a video game. The Ergatta Rower is handcrafted from locally sourced cherry wood for a natural vibe through stellar high technology. You get game-based, full-body, low-impact workout challenges daily. It’s sleek, elegant and easily moveable and storable.

The Ergatta Rower

$2,199

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Sakara Life The Popcorn Trio
Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to cut out ALL indulgences. Sakara Life’s Popcorn trio brings that old timey holiday tin tradition covering caramel, butter and cheese flavors in health-forward ingredients that taste just as good.

Sakara Life Holiday Popcorn Trio

$45

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Diptyque Figuier Candle
No one in the history of history has ever been disappointed upon opening a Diptyque candle. For the living room, bathroom, bedroom and beyond Diptyque turns any room into a fancy boudoir (including with its Christmas-themed options for getting into the holiday spirit).

Diptyque Figuier Candle

$68

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The Sill Monstera Deliciosa
Any plant from The Sill is the perfect wellness gift when shopping for someone that has everything. You can never have enough plants, right?! The Sill sends them off in pretty packages with a custom pot and note.

The Sill Monstera Deliciosa

$52

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Ostrichpillow Luxury Travel Pillow
There’s nothing worse than a sore neck after falling asleep wrong on a long flight. The Ostrichpillow luxury travel pillow solves that problem and helps you fall asleep more comfortably on a plane, bus or anywhere really.

Ostrichpillow Luxury Travel Pillow

$60

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The Lyric Theraputic Massager
At-home massage guns are an investment piece that will get your body movin’ and groovin’ after a killer workout. They also help combat chronic pain and ease stress and anxiety. The Lyric is a strong contender among the best at-home deep tissue massagers. Plus, it’s totally chic.

The Lyric Theraputic Massager

$199.95 
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The Poet Suction Toy
Self pleasure is a form of wellness. The Poet from Smile Makers isn’t your typical vibrator. It comes with three different suction sizes for ultimate clitoral stimulation. Gift it to your BFF that needs some lovin’ and snag one for yourself (you won’t regret it).

The Poet Suction Toy

$120

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Kumiko Micellar Cleansing Water
Supermodels swear by the use of micellar water to cleanse off toxins and makeup from the day. It’s far more luxurious and nourishing than what you’ll get from the tap and is a vital step in any skin-care routine. Kumiko’s Micellar Cleansing water has echinacea flower extract, supreme almonds and Japanese matcha to achieve glowing hydration that nourishes and repairs the skin no matter how heavy your makeup is. Bonus points when you add on the toner to accompany it!

Kumiko Micellar Water

$35

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The DB Method Squat Machine
When you squat on your own at the gym, you’re probably missing out on some major muscles in the glutes. This Kardashian-approved squat machine forces you to engage every single butt muscle to lift, sculpt and tone that booty.

The DB Method Squat Machine

$329

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Baloo Living Sleep Stone Mask
Crystals lovers will swoon over this beautiful silk sleep mask from Baloo Living. You can swap out different crystals like rose quartz for love or amethyst for calming, intentionally pocketed at the third eye chakra as you relax and dream.

Baloo Living Sleep Stone Mask

$64

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Papinelle x Karen Walker Love Letter Cotton & Silk Pajamas
Pajamas are always a good gift idea, but when they written with love from Karen Walker in the most luxurious silk-cotton blend, you’re taking it to a whole new level. There’s no better way to start or end your day.

Papinelle x Karen Walker Love Letter Cotton & Silk Pajamas

$169

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Fabe & Mane HoliRoots Healthy Hair Ritual Set
Hair health is a major part of wellness, and Fabe and Mane’s HoliRoots Healthy Hair Ritual Set includes the brand’s bestselling products. The result is a hydrated and healthier mane. Plus, the massager comb feels like heaven.

Fabe & Mane Hair Ritual Set

$39

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The Ohm Store Truth and Journal Set
True wellness gurus know the power of a singing bowl. The sound vibration is much deeper than any Spotify playlist. This Ohm Store brass bowl is hand hammered in Kathmandu, Nepal and accompanied by a pocket-sized journal to help awaken your spiritual practice.

The Ohm Store Truth and Journal Set

$57

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Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask
With nearly 2,000 perfect reviews from Sephora customers, the Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask is a surefire, crowd-pleasing gift. It drastically reduces the size of pores and has a cooling sensation, leaving the skin nourished, hydrated and glowing.

Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask

$39.44 
$32

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Osea Malibu Undaria Algae Body Oil
The harsh winter weather has us all dreaming of warmer days. Osea Malibu’s body oil brings that beachy warm glow to you all year round. It’s formulated with all-natural oils that penetrate the skin to feel hydrated all day long.

Osea Malibu Undaria Algae Body Oil

$48

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Groovy Butter Duo
Just when you thought they couldn’t put CBD in anything else, Groovy Butter launched a delicious nut butter duo. The hazelnut cacao tastes better than Nutella (yup, we went there) without any added sugar. And the almond butter is creamy and nutty perfect, for a fruit pairing or smoothie topping. Get your daily dose of CBD through a healthy nut butter (and maybe lather on some CBD oil, a soothing CBD cream or indulge in one of the best CBD bath bombs for further relaxation while you’re at it). What a time to be alive!

Groovy Butter Duo

$40

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Larq Movement Bottle
The Larq bottle isn’t your typical reusable travel hydration vessel. It’s become a vital product in a post-pandemic world. It’s a rechargeable bottle that purifies water in 60 seconds every two hours, neutralizing up to 99.9% bacteria using UV light.

Bespoke Post

Larq Movement Bottle

$78

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Hum Nutrition Immunity Defenders Set
Health is the new wealth, and supplements are the new gifted chocolates. What better way to stay ahead of sickness by defending it with Hum Nutrition’s Immunity Defenders set. It comes with vitamin D3, which helps boost your mood, support your immune system and facilitates calcium absorption to promote strong bones and teeth.The Air Patrol Supplement is formulated with vitamin C ester and bioflavanoids that also boost your immune system, while promoting a healthy skin barrier and lung function.

Hum Nutrition Immunity Defenders Set

$22

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Haus The Cocktail Kit
Excessively drinking sugary cocktails usually ends in a bad hangover. But sometimes, it’s difficult to drink less when they taste so good, especially over the holidays when there are nonstop parties. The Cocktail Kit from Haus is a series of apéritifs and recipes at a lower alcohol content — stronger than wine, weaker than whiskey and much better for you. They are made with all-natural botanicals for a fresh, clean and modern approach to cocktail hour.

Haus The Cocktail Kit

$60

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Sparitual The Hand Wellness Set
Turn your spa trip into a ritual with Sparitual’s at-home Hand Wellness set. This package will treat, hydrate and polish both the nails and hands. It’s a wellness gift you never knew you needed.

Sparitual The Hand Wellness Set

$50

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Open Meditation, Yoga, Breath Work+ Membership
Open is a digital subscription to meditation, breath work, yoga, pilates classes and more. The company uses approachable tools like music and sound through this high-tech zen platform. Even people that claim they “can’t” meditate have fallen in love with Open’s approach. A simple breath work session could feel like a full body and mind workout.

Open Memberhsip

$20/month

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Arrae Holiday Box Set
This Hailey-Bieber-approved, all-natural supplement box contains everything you need to debloat and destress. Arrae’s Bloat and Calm products are designed to work together for optimal digestion and wellness, especially after you indulge in something that doesn’t agree with your stomach. Bring on the gluten! (jk)

Arrare Holiday Box Set

$120

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Koala Eco All Natural Pink Grapefruit and Peppermint Room Spray
Not all cleaning products are “good” for you. In fact, many are made with chemicals we shouldn’t be breathing in or are bad for the environment. Koala Eco’s all-natural products use bacteria-killing essential oils that turn any space into a sanctuary. We love the brand’s entire lineup, but this pink grapefruit and peppermint room spray makes the perfect gift.

Koala Eco All Natural Starter Collection

$47

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Kroma 5-Day Reset
Holidays are the time to enjoy the dessert, carbs and sugar crashes (in moderation). But January marks the time to get back into a wellness routine. What better way to kickstart your health than with a celebrity-favorite reset program? This five-day program from Kroma will have you sipping and eating all day long, so it feels more like a true meal program.

retailer

Kroma 5-Day Reset

$365

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The 14 Best Blush Brushes for Every Type of Blush and Budget

The 14 Best Blush Brushes for Every Type of Blush and Budget

On the hunt for the best brush blush for your makeup kit? There are countless sizes and shapes to choose from, and the right one for you will depend on your routine and lifestyle. Start your search by figuring out your budget and whether you’re interested in buying a makeup brush for the short or long term.
“In this case, you pay for what you get when it comes to blush brushes,” says Alyssia Chang, makeup artist and founder of Prevail Beauty. “Anything $20 or less will get you blush brushes that will last for six months if you’re lucky. Even then, they might not perform very well, not apply blush properly and the hairs might deteriorate.”
The best blush brushes usually start around $30 and can go anywhere from $50 to $100. “Anywhere over $80, you will get the best of the best and with proper care,” Chang says. “It will last you a lifetime.”

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Once you settle on budget, identify which blush products you will be using the most. Do you tend to favor a light dusting of powder blush? Or are you into a more dramatic, highly pigmented cream finish? “If it’s powder, cream, liquid or all three, then you need to find a brush that’s tested and proven to perform well for those products,” Chang says.
Next, consider your degree of skin sensitivity. Test the blush brush hairs on the inner part of your wrist.
“This part of your wrist is very thin skinned and sensitive,” Chang says. “You can tell if the bristles are soft, smooth or itchy. You want the blush brush to be dense yet firm with a lot of hairs, but very soft like a kitten’s paw.”
Generally, shopping for blush brushes is easier to do when you can see the size of the brush and feel the bristles for yourself. Brittany Lo, makeup artist and founder of Beia, recommends ordering online to see the options in person and returning the ones you don’t need.
“The feeling of brushes is very important to me,” Lo says. “I believe it’s a part of the makeup application experience, so try out multiple options until you find brushes that work well for you.”
The right brush, after all, significantly affects your beauty look. A fluffy brush gives a softer application, while a denser brush packs on more color and vibrancy. A rounder blush is ideal for applying blush on the apples of the cheeks; meanwhile, a more angled brush works well for applying on top of cheekbones.
“Blush has the ability to add warmth to the face and skin, while also tying the lips and facial features together to complete the look,” Lo says.
The best way to apply brush with a makeup brush
When it comes to powder blush, the most effective way to apply is by sweeping blush along your cheekbones for a softer look. With creams and liquids, gently tap onto cheeks for a more precise application. “Always start out with minimal product and build up to your desired intensity,” advises Renée Loiz, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Color May Vary.
Remember: Less is usually more, especially when we’re talking about blush, Lo says. “Begin by applying a minimal amount in the places you want the blush to have the most impact,” she advises. “Then, build it to the level of vibrancy that you want for the desired look.”

Ahead, check out the 14 best blush brushes to add to your beauty arsenal right away. Don’t forget: buying a blush brush or a makeup brush set featuring one this holiday season is a thoughtful makeup gift for all the beauty enthusiasts in your life. (And if you need more gift-giving inspiration, consider giving her a makeup bag to hold her new goodies, and check out our list of gift ideas for any woman.)
Sigma F10 Powder/Blush Brush
Best Powder Blush Brush
This synthetic-bristle blush brush from Sigma Beauty has a soft, slightly beveled head that provides medium coverage and is best for your favorite powder products. The long handle makes it easy to maneuver, so you get precise placement of powder across your cheeks. It deposits color delicately across the face, giving a fresh finish no matter which blush you prefer.

Sigma F10 Powder/Blush Brush

$25

Buy Now

Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #99
Best Cream Blush Brush
Targeting the apples of your cheeks with your go-to cream blush? You’ll love this spade-like blush from the Sephora Collection with slightly dense, soft bristles that can handle any cream formula. “​​This brush is dense enough to apply cream blush, while still being light and fluffy enough to allow the blush to apply lightly and build onto the skin,” Lo says.

Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #99

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e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush Brush
Best Drugstore Blush Brush
When budget is top of mind, go for this trusty, inexpensive standby. “For an affordable blush brush option, this e.l.f option is my go-to recommendation,” Lo says. “It’s the perfect size to apply traditional powder blush along the cheekbones and on the apples of the cheeks. The head of the brush is small enough where you can intentionally apply blush where you desire and build upon.”

e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush Brush

$4

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It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe French Boutique Blush Brush #4
Best Angled Blush Brush
The right angled brush delivers a high-impact effect, no matter which beauty look you’re going for. “Something about an angled blush brush always gives perfectly rounded blush brushes a run for their money,” Chang says. “This French-boutique-inspired, 100% synthetic angled blush brush from It Cosmetics hugs the curves of the cheekbone and has a stunning handle with a little bump for the best grip. Don’t forget: The tip of the brush can be used to add the perfect amount of highlight to the face.”

It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe French Boutique Blush Brush #4

$24 
$21

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Tom Ford Cheek Brush 06
Best Luxury Blush Brush
Ready for a splurge? With soft-yet-strong bristles, this Tom Ford blush brush offers peak versatility so you can up the intensity or sheer it down for a more transparent look. “This gorgeous, luxurious blush brush is made in Japan and has the perfect shorter brush handle [for traveling],” Chang says. “This 100% synthetic brush is very dense and silky soft — the perfect recipe to really enjoy blush application while still providing ultimate control.”

Tom Ford Cheek Brush 06

$79

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Gloriest Blush Brush
Best Affordable Blush Brush
Shopping for brushes — especially online — usually involves a lot of trial and error because you’re unable to feel the bristles before purchasing, Lo explains. “I rely on the reviews, and after a few trials, I’ve come to absolutely love this Gloriest blush brush,” she says. “The bristles are super soft, so they don’t irritate your skin. The brush comes at an affordable price and allows you to build your blush without looking blotchy.”

Gloriest Blush Brush

$5

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Real Techniques Makeup Setting Brush
Best Precision Blush Brush
Looking to get into those hard-to-reach areas? This lightweight brush tip from Real Techniques has the best shape for getting into the inner corners of the eyes and blending out concealer, in addition to touching up cream and liquid blushes. The small, fluffy bristles provide a controlled dusting of powder for a super-focused finish. “It’s inexpensive, but has amazing quality,” Loiz says.

Real Techniques Makeup Setting Brush

$7

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Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Brush
Best Two-for-One Blush Brush
You get peak versatility with this double-ended brush from Hourglass that comes with two types of heads for effortless, on-the-go application. The weighted metal handle also makes it easy to hold onto and control with each swipe. “It has one side for blush and the other for highlighter,” Lo says. “I like the sizes of the brushes on this because they allow you to apply blush in a focused area, while not being overly dense and applying too much product.”

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Brush

$46

Buy Now

It Cosmetics Heavenly Skin Bye Bye Pores Powder Brush #701
Best Blush Brush for Sensitive Skin
With patent-pending bristles infused with collagen, silk, peptides, niacin and antioxidants, this It Cosmetics blush brush doesn’t just apply blush to your skin — it also works to improve your skin’s health. It pairs perfectly with loose or pressed powders, and the dome-shaped brush head optically blurs away the appearance of lines and pores. “After applying bronzer and blush, I generally like to use a brush like this to buff out the blush,” Lo says. “It ensures that there are no lines or streakiness on the face, giving a polished, clean look.”

It Cosmetics Heavenly Skin Bye Bye Pores Powder Brush #701

$49 
$44

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Morphe M405 Contour Brush
Best Contouring Blush Brush
Need just a pop of color and contour? This angled Morphe brush features natural bristles that are ideal for applying blush, bronzer or highlight to the cheekbones. It adds a subtle, buildable dusting to the face and is tailor-made for precise application. Plus, you can easily use it with a variety of blush types, from light and powdery to dense and creamy.

Morphe M405 Contour Brush

$12

Buy Now

Bobbi Brown Blush Brush
Best Long-Lasting Blush Brush
With a large, rounded head and gentle bristles, this Bobbi Brown blush brush helps you put the perfect amount of color onto your cheeks and effortlessly picks up powder brush. The high-quality wooden handle is just the right size for easy control with each stroke. Known for lasting years, Bobbi Brown brushes also deposit the optimal amount of color so you never feel too done up.

Bobbi Brown Blush Brush

$62 
$52

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Chanel Les Pinceaux de Chanel Blush Brush N°110
Best Multipurpose Blush Brush
This tapered Chanel blush brush fits comfortably in the hand and seamlessly adjusts to facial contours for a silky smooth application of your preferred powder and cream formulas. With cloud-like bristles that evenly distribute color, this brush is a truly worthwhile investment. It’s also a favorite for those with sensitive skin and who desire a more natural finish.

Chanel Les Pinceaux de Chanel Blush Brush N°110

$50

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Hakuhodo S110Bk Blush Brush Round & Flat
Best Investment Blush Brush
If handmade craftsmanship is what you’re after, then Chang guarantees that this blush brush “will blow your mind” when it comes to texture, performance, quality and craft. “The neatest thing is that Hakuhodo helped Tom Ford create his brushes, but Hakuhodo still makes and hand-inspects every single one of his handmade brushes that are made in Japan,” she says. “This goat haired, double-crimped 24-karat gold plated brass ferrule and 38 millimeter bristles create a well-blended, natural deposited blush look. It’s good for powder blush products.”

Hakuhodo S110Bk Blush Brush Round & Flat

$380

Buy Now

Smith Cosmetics 118 Blush/Powder Brush
Best Everyday Blush Brush
Smith Cosmetics’ high-end yet affordable brush is multifunctional, innovative and performs very well, according to Chang. “It has a 50-50 mix of synthetic and real goat hair that’s firm yet soft for the most sensitive skin,” she says. “The handle is made to fit perfectly in the curvature of the hand, is completely antibacterial and great for using as a spatula, too. It’s great for powder, cream or liquid products.”

Smith Cosmetics 118 Blush/Powder Brush

$32

Buy Now

The 76 Best Black Friday Clothing Deals to Shop Right Now

The 76 Best Black Friday Clothing Deals to Shop Right Now

The holiday shopping season is upon us, with the biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday, inching ever closer. Taking place annually the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday is the day when retailers offer huge shopping incentives to customers, on everything from electronics to homewares and fashion (there are lots of beauty deals on Black Friday from retailers like Ulta and Sephora, too). Cyber Monday falls the Monday after and is dedicated to offering deals online.
This year, Black Friday is on Friday, Nov. 26, and Cyber Monday is Monday, Nov. 29. Black Friday has always been a huge in-store shopping day but has moved increasingly online in recent years. That means elbowing fellow shoppers in big box stores has been more comfortably replaced with logging on to one’s favorite retailers.

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The only issue this presents is finding desired merchandise in stock in one’s size. Luckily, tons of retailers and brands have opened their online doors early so you can avoid post-Thanksgiving stress and get your shopping done now, whether you’re searching for gifts for women or gift ideas for men.
We’ve listed a ton of Black Friday and Cyber Monday clothing sales below that will kick off early or already hosting excellent sales, and we’ve picked out a few of the best Black Friday deals we’re shopping way before the day after Thanksgiving, including the best shoe deals.
Keep checking back as we update this page so you can find the best discounts before it’s too late.
Best Black Friday Deals From Top Retailers
Amazon
Amazon is rolling out lots of great fashion deals for men, women, and kids. No matter who’s on your holiday shopping list, you can save big on all the top brands and gifts this Christmas season.
Farfetch
Farfetch is offering up to 50% off tons of designer brands from boutiques around the world last year, and will likely serve up even more deals this Cyber week.
Luisa Via Roma
Enjoy 40% off full-priced designer duds with code BF40 and an extra 25% off discounted items during Luisa Via Roma‘s Black Friday sale.
Matches Fashion
Save up to 50% off tons of designer brands on MatchesFashion.com this Black Friday.
MyTheresa.com
Browse MyTheresa‘s sale section to save up to 60% on designer clothing and accessories from top brands, including Off-White, Fendi, Balmain, Isabel Marant and more.
Net-A-Porter
Save up to 50% off select dresses, shoes, handbags, sweaters, jeans, and more from your favorite designer brands during Net-A-Porter‘s Black Friday Sale.

Nordstrom’s Black Friday deals have already started. Think coats, winter boots, and sweaters, all with up to 50% off in savings, making it the perfect time to treat yourself or gift to others this holiday season. There are also markdowns in the beauty and handbags and wallets departments.
Revolve
Select items from Revolve’s massive online inventory will be up to 65% off on Black Friday. On Cyber Monday, final sale items will be discounted an extra 20% off. There are already thousands of markdowns on Revolve.com to shop now, which is the best strategy for making sure you get what you want before it sells out.
Saks
If you’re looking for chicest designer clothing, Saks has all the deals you’re looking for with up to 50% off in savings on top brands like Khaite, Chloe, The Row, and so much more.

Saks Off Fifth
Shop ’til you drop at Saks Off Fifth with up to 80% top brands like Marc Jacobs and Stuart Weitzman, and up to 90% select clearance items with code BFSTEALS right now.
Shopbop
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to head to Shopbop.com, where the retailer is offering up to 50% off the trendiest styles of the season with the code HOLIDAY. Owned by Amazon, Shopbop items are available for two-day shipping with Amazon Prime.

adidas Women’s Grand Court Sneaker

$65 
$48.74

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Kate Spade Leila Medium Leather Handbag

$186.05 
$138.55

Buy Now

Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

$98 
$78.40

Buy Now

Nordstrom Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

$119 
$79.80

Buy Now

Ugg McKay Water Resistant Booties

$150 
$99.90

Buy Now

Courtesy of Amazon

Eberjey Women’s Gisele Pajama Sleepwear Set

$118 
$79

Buy Now

Courtesy of Amazon

Ugg Women’s Oh Yeah Slipper

$99.95 
$76

Buy Now

Marc Jacobs Small The Snapshot Zip Leather Card Case

$95 
$66.50

Buy Now

Courtesy of Amazon

Calvin Klein Women’s Invisible Panties Multipack

$45 
$35

Buy Now

Balmain B-Court Fluorescent-Trim Leather Sneakers

$595 
$357

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Marc Jacobs The Director Leather Tote

$450 
$270

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Monica Vinader Naida Diamond Circle Pendant Bracelet

$425 
$318.75

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

AllSaint Donita Boots

$348 
$208.80

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Movado Esperanza Bracelet Watch

$995 
$696.50

Buy Now

Courtesy of MyTheresa

JW Anderson Embellished Leather Slides

$500 
$350

Buy Now

Courtesy of MyTheresa

Live the Process Ballet High-Rise Leggings

$125 
$87

Buy Now

Courtesy of MyTheresa

The Row Coco Suede Mules

$795 
$596

Buy Now

Topshop Belted Blouson Sleeve Cardigan

$75 
$49.90

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Lydell Combat Boot

$180 
$126

Buy Now

Courtesy of Shopbop

Jacquemus Le Chiquito Bag

$550 
$330

Buy Now

Best Black Friday Deals on Activewear and Athletic Shoes

Save up to 50% off sneakers, track pants, hoodies, and so much more at Adidas.com. If you’re holiday shopping for the fitness lover in your life, Ultraboost 21s are the perfect gift.
Bandier
Bandier is opening its sale window early, kicking off on Nov. 23 and concluding Nov. 29, with the entire site discounted 30 percent off. Start bookmarking favorites on Bandier.com now.
Beyond Yoga
There’s no time like the present to stock up on cozy loungewear that doubles as workout gear. Beyond Yoga’s Black Friday discounts start early on Nov. 23, with sitewide savings up to 30 percent off.
Gym Shark
Refresh your workout wardrobe with up to 70% select Gym Shark styles.
Lululemon
Lululemon’s Black Friday sale offers up to 60% off styles from the We Made Too Much section. Check it out now to find your favorites at a discount.
New Balance
Select New Balance shoes, activewear, and athleisure clothing is 20% off during the brand’s secret sale event.

Nike already has major savings happening on apparel and shoes at Nike.com. Shop now to get up to 50% off some cool sneakers and stylish athleisure clothes.
Outdoor Voices
Now until Nov. 25, get 50% off select styles at Outdoor Voices.
Puma
Puma‘s Black Friday sale offers up to 50% tons of styles, from cute athleisure to comfy sneakers.
Rhone
If the man in your life can use some new activewear, Rhone‘s Black Friday sale will help you save 20% off $150 orders, 25% off $250 orders, and 30% off orders of $300 or more.

Adidas Ultraboost 21 Women’s Sneakers

$180 
$135

Buy Now

Courtesy of Amazon

Fitbit Luxe Fitness Tracker

$150 
$100

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nike

Nike Pro Dri-FIT Tank

$35 
$27

Buy Now

Outdoor Voices 7/8 Dipped Warmup Leggings

$78 
$39

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nike

Nike Men’s ZoomX SuperRep

$140 
$81

Buy Now

Courtesy of Beyond Yoga

Beyond Yoga Lounge Around Midi Jogger

$88 
$44

Buy Now

Best Black Friday Fashion Sales
7 For All Mankind
From Nov. 18-24, customers can take 30 percent off full-price and sale items on the 7 For All Mankind website, and in-store. From Nov. 25-30 the discount increases to 30 percent off.
Aether Apparel
From November 25 through November 29, save up to 30% off Aether Apparel menswear and womenswear styles.
AllSaints
From leather jackets to cool dresses, everything at AllSaints is discounted by 30% off original prices for Black Friday.
Apparis
For Apparis‘ Black Friday preview sale, you can save 25% off most styles with code BFPREVIEW.
Ba&sh
The Ba&sh FW21 collection will be 25 percent off from Nov. 23-30. On Thanksgiving and Black Friday, Nov. 25-26, customers can take an extra 10 percent off sale items with code EXTRA10.
BlankNYC
From Nov. 19-30 BlankNYC is offering an early 30 percent off Black Friday sale. It applies to all items on the website.
Bleusalt
Bleusalt‘s Pre-Black Friday sale is offering up to 40% off select styles.
Brooks Brothers
Save 25% off most styles, along with 40% off when purchasing four or more Brooks Brothers shirts.
Club Monaco
Find the perfect gift for anyone on your list with Club Monaco‘s Black Friday sale, which offers 25% off everything with code BLACKFRIDAY.
Coach
With code THANKS25, you can save 25% off select styles at Coach.
Coach (Outlet)
Save up to a whopping 70% off select items during Coach‘s Black Friday outlet sale. Plus, save an extra 25% off sitewide with free shipping.
Commando
Never worry about having to go commando on laundry day, thanks to Commando‘s 20% off Black Friday sale. Just use the code HOLIDAY20.
Eberjey
Starting November 23rd, Eberjey is offering 25% off sitewide with the code JOY25.

Right now, you can save big on dozens of styles before Everlane‘s big Black Friday sale. This year, the brand started a charitable Black Friday fund with Oceana, which is an international advocacy organization that works to clean up and conserve the world’s oceans.
GSTQ
Save up to 30% off sitewide at GSTQ.com, including leathers, leggings, dresses, and more.
Halston
Halston is already offering daily flash sales of up to 30 percent off select styles. Right now, select party styles are 15 percent off with the code HOLIDAY15. Deals will run through Black Friday on Nov. 26.

Hill House Home
Hill House Home‘s annual sale offers up to 50% off cozy robes and separates, and of course, huge discounts on the brand’s popular Nap Dress.
Hudson Jeans
Hudson Jeans will begin its 30 percent off deal on Nov. 23. Get on it early so you can nab your preferred size for women’s, men’s and kids’ styles. Discounts will end Dec. 1.
J. Crew
J. Crew’s holiday sales are already well underway at JCrew.com. Find up to 50% off women’s holiday party style clothing, plus an extra 30 percent off sale items with code SALETIME.
Jenni Kayne
Enjoy 25% off all of Jenni Kayne‘s chic clothing and accessories sitewide with code BF25.
Karen Millen
Karen Millen‘s entire array of womenswear, lingerie, and accessories is discounted right now, with winter wear 50 percent off and everything else 20 percent off. If you download the brand’s app you can score an additional 10 percent off all merchandise, on top of other savings. From Nov. 23-28 expect to see even steeper discounts, with styles up to 70 percent off. On Cyber Monday, Nov. 29, select items will be up to 75 percent off.
Ksubi
Starting November 24, save 40% off select Ksubi styles.
La Ligne
Now through November 30th, you can shop La Ligne‘s Merci Giving sale and save up to 50% off.
Levi’s
Forget Black Friday, Levi’s Indigo Friday sale equals 40% off denim for women, men, and kids in-store and on Levi.com, plus free shipping and returns. The company is also offering a holiday promotion of 20 percent off styles site-wide and free shipping if you sign up for emails.
Madewell
Get 30% off select items at Madewell now until Nov. 28 with code OHJOY.
Michael Stars
Dig into the 25% off all items sale on MichaelStars.com starting Friday, Nov. 19 through Tuesday, Nov. 23. Deals will get even steeper from Nov. 25-28 with 30 percent off all items.
Naadam
Now through November 28, save 40% off select styles, including Naadam‘s holiday capsule collection and essential cashmere collection.
Naked Cashmere
Nothing screams holiday gifting like cashmere, and Naked Cashmere has debuted a special Black Friday collection at less-than-normal prices. It’s available now with women’s and men’s options on NakedCashmere.com.

Nicce
Save up to 50% off sitewide at Nicce.com and an additional 10% off with code EXTRA10.
PH5
Save up to 50% off select PH5 styles and an additional 15% off all sale items with code THANKS.
Rachel Antonoff
Rachel Antonoff’s Black Friday sale will launch a day early on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 25 at 10 a.m. EST sharp. It will offer 25 percent off sitewide plus some special holiday exclusives in the first 24 hours, like special PJ sets. The sale ends Monday, Nov. 29 at midnight; use code GIFTDADDY.
Rag & Bone
Shop the Rag & Bone online sale now, with plenty of styles for men and women up to half off.
Ralph Lauren
There are early deals to score on RalphLauren.com, with up to 40 percent off women’s, men’s and kids’ clothing, plus home items.
Rowing Blazers
Now’s your chance to get the viral Princess Diana Warm & Wonderful sheep sweater, because Rowing Blazers is offering 25% off sitewide right now.
Something Navy
Starting tomorrow, Something Navy will discounting dozens of styles for 40% off with the code CYBER40.
Splendid
Stock up on tons of cozy basics at Splendid’s pre-Black Friday sale. Get 40 percent off sitewide Nov. 23-28 with code BF21. Sleepwear and intimates will be marked down 50 percent Nov. 25-26.
Stone and Strand
We’ll take any discount we can get when it comes to our spendy jewelry purchases. Black Friday is Stone and Strand’s biggest sale of the year, and it kicks off early, running Nov. 21-29. Expect 20 percent off tons of styles with the code ONCEAYEAR. Start browsing items already on major sale, like this Over the Moon Ring Set with moonstone, tanzanite, and sapphires in 10-karat yellow gold.
Sunspel
Save up to 30% off select Sunspel menswear and womenswear styles.
Theory (Outlet)
Save up to 80% off select Theory styles, including knitwear, coats, winter accessories and more.
Todd Snyder
Todd Snyder will kick off Black Friday savings early, with a sitewide 25 percent discount from Nov. 21 to Nov. 28. Come Cyber Monday, markdowns will increase to 30 percent.

Courtesy of Hill House Home

Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

$125 
$100

Buy Now

Courtesy of Hill House Home

Hill House Home Hotel Robe

$100 
$80

Buy Now

Courtesy of Everlane

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Glove Shoes

$115 
$63

Buy Now

Courtesy of Everlane

Everlane The Perform Pocket Legging

$68 
$54

Buy Now

Courtesy of Everlane

Everlane The Featherweight Alpaca Cardigan

$70 
$56

Buy Now

Courtesy of Nordstrom

FARM Rio Embroidered Midi Dress

$285 
$143

Buy Now

Courtesy of BLANKNYC

BLANKNYC Love Doctor Jacket

$148

Buy Now

Courtesy of 7 For All Mankind

7 For All Mankind Cropped Straight Jeans

$208 
$146

Buy Now

Courtesy of Michael Stars

Michael Stars Natalie Dress

$120

Buy Now

Best Black Friday Accessories Deals
Aldo
Starting Wednesday, Nov. 24, Aldo will offer up to 50% off shoe styles. Shop the sale through Nov. 30, both in-store and online.

Alison Lou
The early bird catches the savings at Alison Lou. Shoppers can take 20% off fine jewelry purchases Nov. 18-29 with the code BLACKFRIDAY. Loucite hoops will only be discounted on Cyber Monday.
Astrid & Miyu
Costume jewelry brand Astrid & Miyu will feature a 25% off discount sitewide Nov. 22-29. Email subscribers get even earlier access to the steals on Nov. 21.
Aurate
Aurate’s entire website will offer jewelry with 25% off through Nov. 30 with code STOCKUP.
BaubleBar
Enjoy 30% off all Baublebar has to offer with code BB30.
DSW
DSW has a wide sale array, with some starting before Black Friday hits. Shop Nike deals on Nov. 21, and Ugg deals Nov. 22-24. On Nov. 27-28 select brands will be discounted 30%. Finally, on Nov. 29-30 additional brands will be marked down 30 percent.
Franco Sarto
Get a jump on winter shoe needs with Franco Sarto’s early Black Friday sale. From Nov. 23 through Cyber Monday all styles on FrancoSarto.com will be discounted 30%.
Illesteva
Upgrade your eyewear with Illesteva‘s Black Friday sale that will save you 25% off sunglasses with code SECRETSALE.
Jins Eyewear
From November 26 through November 30th, save 30% off Jins sunglasses and eyewear sitewide with code BLACKFRIDAY30.
JW Pei
Save up to 70% off JW Pei‘s selection of sleek and chic handbags.
Mansur Gavriel
Starting November 22nd, Mansur Gavriel will offer up to 40% off select styles.
Mejuri
Mejuri.com will offer 20% off purchases of $150 or more beginning Nov. 24 through Nov. 29. Email subscribers get early access to the discount on Nov. 22 and 23.
Persol
Save up to 50% off Persol‘s stylish eyewear and an extra 50% prescription lenses.
Prive Revaux
Prive Revaux is having a BOGO sale that will save you 50% off select affordable-yet-stylish sunglasses.

Naadam Signature Cashmere Gloves

$75 
$45

Buy Now

Jenni Kayne

$75 
$45

Buy Now

JW Pei Mini Flap Bag

$99 
$80

Buy Now

Coach Janel Boots

$275 
$206.25

Buy Now

Courtesy of Farfetch

Off-White Liquid Melt Mules

$965 
$627

Buy Now

Courtesy of Stone and Strand

Stone and Strand Over the Moon Ring Set

$385 
$231

Buy Now

The 53 Most Stylish Gifts for Men This Season

The 53 Most Stylish Gifts for Men This Season

Shopping for men can be quite the cumbersome task. Whether it’s for your father, son, brother, husband or any guy really, WWD rounds up the 53 most stylish gifts for men in your inner circle.
Amalgam Ford GT40 — 1969 Le Mans Winner
Following 24 months of deep research and intense development work, with the assistance and cooperation of the Ford Archive and Heritage department and Gulf Oil International, Amalgam releases the first images of its extraordinarily detailed model of the Ford GT40. Based on chassis #1075, the model depicts this most famous of Ford’s race cars, exactly as it was raced to victory at Le Mans in 1969 by Jacky Ickx and Jackie Oliver. Measuring nearly 51 centimeters (20 inches) long, this model is limited to just 199 pieces.

Amalgam Ford GT40 – 1969 Le Mans Winner

$15,374

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Angharad Silver Link Necklace
An abstract take on the bridle of linked silver, the Linked necklace is made up of organically formed sterling silver nuggets. An ideal combination of a statement piece and an everyday wear.

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Angharad Silver Link Necklace

$568

Buy Now

Baccarat Four Elements Triple Old-Fashion Tumblers, Set of Four
Now available in a larger, triple old-fashion format, this handcrafted set of four assorted glasses is inspired by the four elements (earth, fire, air, water) that make the legendary Baccarat crystal.

Baccarat Four Elements Triple Old-Fashion Tumblers

$550

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Asprey Stag Head Decanter
Asprey’s elegant range of animal head decanters are of the highest quality, made of lead-free crystal that is melted and blown. They come complete with a sterling silver stopper that’s hand-carved in the shape of various animals, making these the perfect gifts for the outdoorsman or any guy who likes to entertain in style.

Asprey Stag Head Decanter

$6,350

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Assouline – The Impossible Collection of Cigars
In the highly anticipated new volume of Assouline’s bestselling Ultimate Collection, The Impossible Collection of Cigars envisions the ultimate humidor brimming with the most remarkable cigars of the 20th and 21st centuries from the most prestigious makers.

Assouline – The Impossible Collection of Cigars

$995

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Chrome Hearts Classic Clip Chain Keyring
It will be quite impossible for you to lose your set of house keys next time around once they’re attached to this enchanting Chrome Hearts keyring in 18-karat gold pavé diamonds. Available only at CH stores, price upon request.

Chrome Hearts Classic Clip Chain Keyring

price upon request

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The Ergatta Rower
With a fresh approach to fitness, Ergatta uses games with 3D races and intuitive challenges to motivate users. The competitive experience is carefully calibrated toward individual user profiles and fitness objectives, unlike other instructor-based workouts and at-home fitness options available on the market. Additionally, the Ergatta Rower features a handcrafted look that prioritizes beautiful, functional design to complement and enhance the interior of your home.

The Ergatta Rower

$2,199

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Fendi Intarsia Logo Sweater
A detail designed by Noel Fielding, allover intarsia lettering takes the focus on this Fendi jumper. The multicolored tones contrast against the piece’s black hue, adding a quirky touch.

Fendi Intarsia Logo Sweater

$1,268

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Design Within Reach Sky Hip Flask
Constructed of mirror-polished stainless steel for a sleek look, the Sky Hip Flask is bound to be just as much of a conversation piece as the cocktails themselves. This discreet hip flask sports a screw-on top attached to a retaining strap.

Design Within Reach Sky Hip Flask

$70 
$59

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Dior Men Mini Saddle Bag
A new style this season, the Saddle bag presents a smaller and more practical design. Crafted in beige and black Dior Oblique jacquard, it’s embellished with a magnetic flap in the emblematic Saddle silhouette that conceals a zipped closure.

Dior Men Mini Saddle Bag

$2,900

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Hermès Chic Le Sport! Scarf
Hermès Giant scarf in cashmere and silk is adorned with a standout sport-inspired print and comes in a generous size that’s great for protecting yourself from the cold.

Hermès Chic Le Sport! Scarf

$1,075

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Fendi Peekaboo Iconic Essential Leather Bag
This Fendi Lightweight handbag has a simple design consisting of two compartments divided by a stiff partition, briefcase handle, adjustable, detachable shoulder strap, patch pocket on the inside and signature twist lock. Made of black Cuoio Romano leather, the bag has a yellow leather pocket with Fendi Roma lettering embossed in black and palladium-finish metalware.

Fendi Peekaboo Iconic Essential leather bag

$5,100

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Ginori 1735 Labirinto Bowl in Zaffiro
From the Labirinto collection, Ginori’s 1735 hand-made squared bowl pays homage to the pattern created by Gio Ponti in 1926.

Ginori 1735 Labirinto Bowl in Zaffiro

$127

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Jared Byzantine Chain Necklace 14-karat Yellow Gold 26″
This handsome men’s link necklace features high-polish byzantine links for a sophisticated look. Fashioned in 14-karat yellow gold, the 26-inch chain secures with a lobster clasp.

A Guide to How Retailers Are Doing Black Friday 2021

A Guide to How Retailers Are Doing Black Friday 2021

Like last year, Black Friday 2021 is looking different.
Several major retailers are again starting the Black Friday shopping event early, with many sales periods starting at the beginning of November. This move is largely due to the ongoing pandemic, with retailers responding to supply chain blockages and product shortages, and offering customers more time to do their holiday shopping. Many retailers are also continuing last year’s practice of closing its stores on Thanksgiving as a way to thank its associates and reduce the spread of COVID-19. 
Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, Macy’s and others have already revealed their Black Friday shopping events, with others slated to make their announcements in the next few weeks.

Here, WWD rounds up how several major retailers are doing Black Friday 2021. Read on for more.

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This article will be updated as retailers announce their Black Friday initiatives. 
Amazon  
Amazon is continuing its tradition of offering a longer holiday sales period that started at the beginning of October. The deals are available on Amazon’s “Epic Deals” page and spans across virtually all its categories, including fashion, beauty, home, electronics and more.
Throughout October and November, Amazon will drop deeper deals on select merchandise. It is currently amid its Holiday Beauty Haul savings event, its first beauty-specific shopping event, where the company is offering up to 40 percent off on products across skin care, hair care, color cosmetics and fragrance.
Best Buy 
Best Buy Inc. is starting off the holiday shopping season early, offering Black Friday deals starting on Nov. 19, a week earlier than the actual Black Friday.
The retailer is offering deals on many of its electronics, including savings on smart TVs from Samsung, LG and Sony and on Apple products like the new iPhone 13 and iPad.
JCPenney
JCPenney will also start offering Black Friday deals on Nov. 1 through the rest of the month across fashion, home, beauty and more categories. The retailer is also offering its Joy Sweepstakes during the holiday shopping period where customers can win prizes when they shop. Prizes include gift cards, home electronics and a trip to Los Angeles.
Kohl’s 
Kohl’s is offering holiday savings throughout November, with six days of Black Friday deals starting on Nov. 21. The retailer is also offering a sales initiative where it awards $15 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 customers spend during the Black Friday week.
Some of the retailer’s deals include 15 percent off online and in-store purchases from Nov. 5 to 10, $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent from Nov. 6 to Nov. 10 and 10 to 20 percent off on Sephora at Kohl’s beauty items for its Beauty Insiders members from Nov. 5 to 15.
Macy’s
Macy’s is starting its Black Friday deals on Nov. 3, with new deals presented each week across all its categories. All Black Friday deals will then be offered between Nov. 23 to 27. Some deals include 40 to 50 percent off men’s and women’s boots, 50 percent off designer handbags, 50 percent off select beauty products, 60 percent off select homeware and 65 percent off sheets and bedding.
Nordstrom 
Nordstrom is offering up to 40 percent off on all its product categories throughout November. The department store will also be adding more deals the week of Nov. 19.

Old Navy 
Old Navy will offer 50 percent off on Black Friday. Stores will open at 5 a.m.
Sam’s Club
The membership-based retailer is hosting Black Friday deals from Nov. 25 to 28. Called Thanks-Savings, Sam’s Club will be discounting its products across all categories. On Nov. 25, customers will find Black Friday sales online only, as the retailer will be closing its stores on Thanksgiving.
Sephora
Sephora is offering holiday shopping deals starting Nov. 5 with its Holiday Savings Event for its Beauty Insider members. Each tier in the retailer’s membership receives different savings: Its Rouge members receive 20 percent off, its VIB members receive 15 percent off and Insiders receive 10 percent off on purchases until Nov. 15. Sephora will again offer more deals closer to Black Friday.
Target  
Target kicked off its Black Friday savings initiative on Oct. 31, with the retailer announcing it will offer new week-long deals every Sunday across electronics, toys, homeware, appliances, apparel, beauty and more categories. Deals include $100 off on Beats headphones and $200 off on HP’s 15.6 inch laptop.
From Nov. 4 to Nov. 6, Target will offer additional deals, such as the Element 65-inch Smart TV at $299.99 (originally $649.99), the Keurig K-Mini at $49.99 (originally $89.99) and the Bose QuietComfort Headphones at $179.99 (originally $299.99).
Walmart
Walmart is hosting its second annual “Black Friday Deals for Days” initiative starting on Nov. 3 and running through the end of the month. The initiative offers customers deals across the retailer’s product categories, including deals on electronics, toys, appliances, home goods, apparel and more.
The retailer will be releasing savings opportunities throughout the month, with deals hitting on Nov. 3 and Nov. 10. Other deal days have not yet been revealed.
READ MORE HERE: 
The Best 2021 Black Friday Beauty Deals 
What to Buy on Black Friday, According to Retail Experts 
10 Things to Expect During the 2021 Holiday Shopping Season 

Can’t Find That Holiday Gift? Check EBay!

Can’t Find That Holiday Gift? Check EBay!

While the supply chain is of great concern this holiday season for both consumers and retailers alike, the resale market hasn’t missed a beat having continued access to fashion, accessories and luxury items.Serving as a sort of ecosystem of its own, resale consumers are intrigued by shopping on eBay as they are recognizing the value of items in both the present and future. According to Charis Márquez, head of fashion at eBay, the continued access to fashion, accessories and luxury items meeting an increase in thoughtful consumers has created the “perfect storm” for the resale industry.
Notably, one of the strongest categories for eBay is sneakers, with the company’s recent data showing eBay’s sneakers category has continued to grow at double-digit rates. A pair of sneakers bought every 1.5 seconds on the site and the women’s sneaker category alone grew more than 80 percent over the past year.

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Fueling the sellers and buyers of the category, eBay recently launched its new eBay 3D true view technology, which allows shoppers to examine the item they’re browsing from every angle to mirror holding it in their hands. In an official statement, eBay said the new capability is crucial for people buying pre-owned items and looks forward to utilizing the technology for listings more in the coming months.
As the holidays get closer, Márquez shares insights on the future of resale in luxury, eBay’s growing space for buyers and changing consumer sentiment.
WWD: How has eBay seen buyers’ and sellers’ behavior change in the pandemic?
Charis Márquez: Everybody’s sort of in the game, you know, right now, and what we are seeing, and of the most interesting pieces, is this alternate asset class where we have now this generation that [says] I don’t have money right and I don’t know if I understand stocks and real estate that goes up and down but I do get this beautiful pair of shoes. [They] can understand and appreciate an item and that there will be some items that do have future value, that it’s more than just me wearing it today that it’s a long-term purchase that is really being looked at as kind of an alternate asset class right now by this generation.
For a while now we’ve talked about an openness just for resale and use, but I think it’s this element that people are building businesses. This generation is really building businesses out of it, whereas I think if you looked at a lot of the other generations, they were more saying, “I want a Rolex to say that I got this job” or “I want to have a designer bag when I turn, whatever age.” Now, it’s also [consumers saying], “I’m buying this because I know that if I do get sick of it after a certain amount of time, somebody will actually appreciate it later.”
WWD: What are shoppers looking for when they are shopping on eBay?
C.M.: Part of why our authenticity guarantee has been really important is because they are looking for items that they do believe will hold value. When we talk about this generation, they really are looking for investments.
For Gen Z, it’s just silly to buy new, right? Whereas my generation [says] “I don’t want this used T-shirt or sweatshirt,” but we’re the ones selling it. And then Gen Z buys it because it aligns with a value system.

In terms of what people are looking for, they do want to feel like they can trust the product that they bought so we’ve got an authenticity guarantee there. And for more expensive items like a Rolex, we also have the basic protections there that people are looking for but again, it’s really just about the unique and different that people are looking for.
When we think about transitioning into the holiday, I think — I wouldn’t say for the first time — but probably more prevalently people are open to pre-owned from a gifting perspective. I think people have always been, some people have been OK with it for themselves but now because of everything having the supply chain scarcity this, that, and the other, I think there’s an openness.
EBay is really well-positioned because we have all of those unique and different things. I’ve shopped for my kids because they’ll say something random and I don’t know where to find it. EBay is a great place for that just because we already have a lot of new and different things.
We’ve just seen so much happen in the world between being more purpose-driven, intentional, that I think the pandemic has just sort of turned all the beliefs we once had upside down. And that focus is bleeding into everything we do. And now looking at the supply chain, it’s just becoming a perfect storm of knowing you have to really think about this differently and knowing you can’t just go and wait for Black Friday and hope that I’m going to find what I need.
WWD: EBay has an entire section dedicated to luxury gifting for the holidays — how have you managed to drive luxury and where do you see it going?  
C.M.: In the end, when it comes to resale, you’re looking for something unique and different. And if you want to know where you’re going to find the biggest breadth and depth in terms of resale, you’re going to go to eBay. Even if you’re not as in love with our experiences as some other platforms, you’re just not going to find just the assortment. And people are looking for things that are unique and that are different, and that really are part of that self-expression.
For luxury, specifically, what’s been helpful for us is our authentication. That guarantee has been a game changer for us because it’s good for the buyer and the seller. We do have a lot of buyers that are sellers and they all kind of become part of the community and having that protection on both sides and kind of that intermediary party has made a huge difference in people saying, “Yes, I’m willing to try on eBay” and ”I feel comfortable if I choose to sell on eBay.” It keeps it within the ecosystem.

WWD: How does eBay encourage users to stay in its ecosystem?
C.M.: An element that’s really helped us kind of keep within the ecosystem is that we encourage continuing to sell after you’ve bought. We have an NFC-capable card that if you tap it with your phone, you can see it’ll take you straight to all of the information on it that was in the listing so that if you wanted to go back listed again, we make it super easy.
There’s less buyer’s remorse because we’re making it really easy if you do choose to resell it as well or if you just want to know the information on this handbag or sneaker. The NFC card is an actual physical little tag but having that digital document iskind of like when you buy a piece of artwork and you have that paper, now we have that digitally. That’s been really powerful for us.
WWD: How have sellers’ behaviors changed during the pandemic?
C.M.: We’ve definitely seen in the time of COVID-19, people building up their businesses. We have plenty of stories of people that had their regular job, were furloughed and then came to eBay and started selling sneakers, or trading cards because they had a bit of interest in a category and in the end, it became a real business.We have a seller that literally was a lawyer and is now making almost as much money as an eBay seller and is really trying to do that full time.
People are kind of just looking at their passion and we definitely are seeing more momentum in that. If we look at the past 18 months, it’s really been around more people just saying, “my closet actually may have some value, so can I create a little business out of it?”
WWD: How does eBay work with its sellers as partners?
C.M.: We connect heavily with them. It’s lots of events with them and we talk through data we went through the business study that we did with them. Anytime we have kind of new information, we really do share it with them in those categories and then we also get information from them.
From our CEO down we all spend time with sellers just understanding their overall pain points and then vice versa like them kind of talking to us about their trends. We had conversations with them about the supply chain to see if they were impacted by it. We’re very well connected and when we have those data points to share or updated terminology we suggest using, they really take it on.

The 8 Best Infrared Sauna Blankets to Use at Home

The 8 Best Infrared Sauna Blankets to Use at Home

When the pandemic caused gyms and spas to close, fitness buffs combed through online retailers like Amazon for at-home workout equipment and wellness products. Among the most popular product booms in this category are the best infrared blankets so consumers could get their wellness fix and re-create sauna treatments at home. Designed to administer a spa-grade intensity of infrared light, which penetrates human tissue without the same overheating sensation as traditional saunas, infrared blankets offer an easier and more convenient solution in the comfort of your home — in front of the TV over a Netflix binge, perhaps. 
What is a sauna blanket?
A sauna blanket essentially mimics a sleeping bag and cocoons your entire body with heat ranging from 80 degrees and up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of them come with a control box or remote that is plugged into an electrical outlet so you can have full control of the heath range during an infrared sauna blanket session. The blanket then forces you to gradually get your sweat on as you lay there warm and relaxed. 

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What are the benefits of using an infrared blanket?
Infrared blankets boast several health and wellness claims, both internally and externally. But the most popular infrared sauna blanket benefit is its detoxification effect on the body, which helps it flush out toxins. This then helps reduce the appearance of puffiness and swelling in the skin while also improving metabolic function for weight loss. The infrared blanket’s detoxifying effect on the body has also been proven to create clearer and tighter-looking skin. Sauna blankets also offer relief for those suffering from muscle soreness, body aches and joint pains, making them popular amongst athletes.  Additionally, the infrared heat can cause the blood vessels to dilate, which then promotes better circulation throughout the body. 
On the emotional wellness side, infrared blankets also help calm anxiety by boosting relaxation, which can also result in a better quality of sleep and sustained healthy energy. Additionally, according to user reviews, an infrared sauna blanket can also help women with endometriosis. The infrared heat oxygenates the body’s tissues and helps with detoxification pathways to reduce xenoestrogens. From pain management, relaxation and stress relief, inflammation, lymphatic flow/circulation and the excretion of xenoestrogens, it’s a plausible natural healing path.
Since infrared is still fairly new in the world, there is no hard scientific data yet to back these claims. However, since research can be slow,  there are many doctors, wellness experts, and consumer reviews that agree this anecdotal evidence checks out to be true. Dr. Brett Bauer, MD is one of them. “Several studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of chronic health problems, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, headache, type 2 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, and found some evidence of benefit,” he says. While larger and more-rigorous studies are needed to confirm these results, “no adverse effects have been reported with infrared saunas. So if you’re considering trying a sauna for relaxation, an infrared sauna might be an option,” he explains.

What to know before you use an infrared sauna blanket
Before you zip yourself into a sauna blanket, it’s important that you’re adequately hydrated to prevent dehydration and to continue drinking water well after your session. When selecting your temperature, it’s recommended that beginners start with lower heat settings to ensure their safety; start at 100 Fahrenheit and gradually build up to 150 Fahrenheit. 
How often should I use a sauna blanket
It is recommended for beginners to spend 10 to 15 minutes in an infrared sauna blanket. But once you’re acclimated, you can stay zipped in for the suggested 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on your preference and schedule, it’s best to use a sauna blanket at least three times a week to reap its full benefits. Like anything, it’s also important to listen to your body. Just because there is a recommended time, that doesn’t mean you have to struggle through a session to make it to the full 30 minutes. It’s also recommended for beginners to wear loose fitting clothes or a robe to lessen the harshness of the direct heat.  
We tested a handful of sauna blankets and combed the internet for user reviews and expert recommendations to bring you the best infrared blankets that will help transform your home into a spa. If you’re looking for the best spa gifts to pamper a loved one this holiday season, look no further. 
1. HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket V3
Best Overall
Designed to detoxify at an intensity seven-times higher than traditional saunas, the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket V3 rids the body of heavy metals, radiation and environmental toxins while also burning up to 600 calories. Crafted with the healing properties of amethyst tourmaline, which generates negative ions, and medical-grade magnetic strips, this top-of-the-line infrared blanket also promotes healthy blood circulation, relieves sore muscles and pains, decreases cortisol and increases serotonin to aid your body in regenerative relaxation.

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket V3

$499

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2. Gizmo Supply Digital Sauna Blanket 
Durable by design, the Gizmo Supply Digital Sauna Blanket is made from a waterproof and flexible PVC material that is intended to withstand stretches and bends. Featuring two independent heating zones and digital control functionality, this infrared red blanket is convenient and easy to use.

Gizmo Supply Digital Sauna Blanket

$189.99

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3. InLoveArts Far-Infrared Sauna Blanket
Best Budget Sauna Blanket
Available in four colors, the InLoveArts Far-Infrared Sauna Blanket releases nine to 14 micrometers of far-infrared radiation, making it a highly effective method for detoxifying the body. Featuring an automatic shut-off feature and two heating zones, this top-rated sauna blanket only requires 10 minutes to heat up, detoxify and cool down. 

InLoveArts Far-Infrared Sauna Blanket

$79.99

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4. Vanell Extra Large Infrared Sauna Blanket
Best Infrared Sauna Blanket for Tall People
With more surface area inside the blanket compared to others on this list, the Vanell Extra Large Infrared Sauna Blanket serves as the best option for big and tall body types. Plus, with over 300 almost-perfect reviews on Amazon, you can trust it delivers the heat you desire. It has three zippers inside the bag for easy entry. The temperature is  adjustable from 86℉ to 176℉ with a time setting from 15 minutes to 60 minutes. Plus, the infrared dry heating has a 2-zone temperature control, so you can keep it light on your lower half if you’re overheating. One Amazon reviewer says, “I’ve used the infrared sauna blanket more than six times already.  The directions it shipped with are clear, the unit easy to operate and it comes with a remote. It helps relieve joint and muscle pain. I have that nice wellbeing buzz!”

Courtesy of Retailer

Vanell X-Large Infrared Sauna Blanket

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5. TOPQSC Sauna Blanket
Crafted from a waterproof Oxford cloth material, the TOPQSC Sauna Blanket offers long-lasting service and a safe at-home sauna experience with its automatic shut-off feature, which stops heating and disconnects from the line once the temperature reaches 85 degrees. Ideal for those looking to detoxify the body of toxins and tend to sore muscles and aches, this deeply relaxing treatment will leave your entire body feeling invigorated and renewed.

TOPQSC Infrared Sauna Blanket

$105

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6. Fencia Sauna Blanket
Promoting overall better wellness with its detoxifying and restorative benefits, the Fencia Sauna Blanket’s infrared technology penetrates deep to relieve the body of stress and tension, while also improving the quality of the skin by promoting the detoxification of the cells. Its thoughtful design allows your arms and hands to have full mobility as you relax.

Fencia Sauna Blanket

$132.99

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7. Ete Etmate Sauna Blanket
Using advanced infrared technology to create a thermal effect in the body, the Ete Etmate Sauna Blanket promotes better blood circulation as it flushes out toxins from the body and improves metabolic function. Its upper double zipper design allows you to release your hands while the sauna blanket is in use while also providing a convenient user experience.

Ete Etmate Sauna Blanket

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8. Heat Healer Sauna Blanket
The Heat Healer is composed of 96 smooth jade and tourmaline stones that perfectly distribute heat with maximum infrared emissivity and EMF blocking technology. The sauna blanket, which heats up to 158 degrees, feels like a luxurious wellness tool that can rejuvenate your body and mind.  It’s made of amide fabric, the same material used for an astronaut’s spacesuit. It’s lightweight, durable and heat resistant. With over 120 five-star reviews, and the stamp of approval after editor-testing, the Heat Healer is a safe bet on what can seem like a pricey wellness product. Plus, the brand provides great directional videos with a fast response time to ensure users get the most out of what can be an intimidating gadget.

Courtesy of Retailer

Heat Healer Sauna Blanket

$568 
$518

Buy Now

Versace Taps Professional Skater for Holiday 2021 Campaign

Versace Taps Professional Skater for Holiday 2021 Campaign

ICE CAPADES: Versace has tapped Italian professional skater Rebecca Ghilardi to lead the glamorous sport team fronting its holiday 2021 campaign.Wearing a minidress in the La Greca pattern and holding the Medusa bag in a vibrant red tone, Ghilardi is captured by photographer Camille Summers-Valli performing spins and pirouettes under the snow. 
Inspired by the ice skating sport, other images include models Stella Maxwell and Malika Louback striking dynamic poses in various Versace outfits, including leggings, corsetry-inspired tops, graphic sweaters and crystal mesh minidresses. The set is also decorated with cushions in Baroque prints, as well as maxi duvet blankets.

Versace Holiday 2021 campaign
Courtesy of Versace

Highlighting the Italian brand’s graphic flamboyancy, Versace has just unveiled at the Shanghai IAPM mall a pop-up store embellished with an allover La Greca pattern. The temporary store was inaugurated with a special performance by musicians Karencici, ICE and J.Sheon. 

As reported, Versace fans this holiday season will have the chance to entertain themselves with the “Versace Catwalk: The Complete Collections” tome, a new addition to the successful Catwalk book series, published in the U.K. by Thames & Hudson and in the U.S. by Yale University Press. 
The book, available from this month, retraces the history of the brand founded in 1987 in Milan by the late designer Gianni Versace, whose legacy, after his tragic death in 1997, has been carried on by his sister Donatella, currently Versace’s chief creative officer.
The tome collects 1,200 catwalk images illustrating 120 lineups, with brief texts introducing the brand and each runway collection.
SEE ALSO: 
Versace, Fendi Swap Gives Boost to Media Impact Value at Milan Fashion Week
Exclusive Pictures from the Versace x Fendi Collaboration Pre-Fall 2022
Donatella Versace, Kim Jones on Why Swapping Brands Is Brave

The Best Gifts for Hairdressers and Hair Stylists This Christmas

The Best Gifts for Hairdressers and Hair Stylists This Christmas

If makeshift quarantine haircuts taught us anything, it’s just how valuable (re: essential) our hairdressers truly are. ‘Tis the season to show your undying gratitude, so what better way to say thank you for their services (not to mention all the life chats you’ve exchanged in their magical chairs) than with one of the best gifts for hairdressers money can buy?
While the generous tips you add to your tab are greatly appreciated and go a long way, nothing says “happy holidays” than a gift you weren’t expecting to receive. This is especially true of hairdressers, notes Devin Toth, a hairstylist at Salon SCK in New York City. “Hairdressers spend so much time taking care of people that they often forget to take care of themselves,” Toth tells WWD. “To be the receiver of a service [or gift] instead of the provider reminds them of how it feels to be taken care of.”

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Granted, shopping for the hairstylist on your list can be tricky; what you buy will ultimately depend on the relationship you have with your stylist. Does a gift serve as a thank you to your hairdresser, or are you shopping for a friend or loved one who cuts hair for a living? If you’re friendly or know them on a personal level, you can be more thoughtful and creative with gifts that hint at their hobbies or interests. However, if you’re not sure what they like or if it’s a newer relationship you’ve started with a stylist, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, Shelly Aguirre says something like cash or a gift card to a local coffee shop or restaurant is a safe choice.
To help narrow down the options and spark inspiration for your shopping list, we’ve rounded up some of the best gifts for hairdressers, from the top beauty gifts they can use at home to chic home decor accents they can use to dress up their station at the salon.

1. TKEES Ines Shearling Slippers
Hairdressers are on their feet for hours at a time. The Ines Shearling slip-on from TKEES gives their tired soles something soothing to slip into after their shift. Lined with 100% shearling, these cozy slippers will be your favorite hairdresser’s go-to off-duty shoe. The pair comes in four colors (camel, chocolate, navy, and black), and can be worn both in and outdoors (which is perfect, seeing as how they’ll never want to take them off). Available in sizes 5 through 11, the Ines style runs a bit small, so it’s advised in-between sizes order up.

TKEES Ines Shearling

$150

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2. Hair by Sam McKnight & Tim Blanks
Authored by Sam McKnight and Tim Banks, and forwarded by none other than Karl Lagerfeld himself, Hair serves as not only a stunning coffee table volume, but a collection of images bound to inspire your favorite hairstylist’s creativity. The thick book is jam-packed with just a glimpse of McKnight’s work that dates back to the ’70s. From the iconic looks of Princess Diana to Madonna, Kate Moss to Lady Gaga, each image proves McKnight isn’t just a stylist, but an artist, and his richly illustrated book is full of teachable moments for up and coming hairdressers, as well as expert commentary, to take note of.

Hair by Sam McKnight

$55

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3. OUAI Chill Pills
Hairdressers know celebrity stylist Jen Atkin’s brand, OUAI, for its ultra-luxe products, but they might not realize the label also sells self-care essentials, too. As a thank you gift for your hairdresser this holiday season, pay them back for all the life advice they offered free of charge with the ultimate chill pills (because they could use a little R&R, too). Each “pill” is a fizzy bath bomb fragranced with jasmine and rose and infused with jojoba, safflower, and hemp seed oils to moisturize, nurture, and soothe the skin — just what the doctor ordered.

OUAI Chill Pills

$30

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4. Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home Candle
Another great hairdresser gift for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or simply just to celebrate the end of the year is this luxury candle from Jo Malone. Striking a match to the earthy, layered notes of ambrette seeds, sea salt, and sage will help your stylist unwind from the hustle and bustle of clients all day long. Plus, the high-grade wax was built to last up to 45 hours of burn time, so while $70 might sound steep for a candle, with Jo Malone, you get what you pay for.

Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home Candle

$70

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5. Knesko Skin Gemstone Roller
Maine, Toth, and Aguirre all agree that treating your stylist to a pamper service, like a massage or facial, is also a lovely gesture. However, if you’re unsure what sort of spa treatment your hairdresser would enjoy, or how comfortable they’d feel going to a salon given the Coronavirus pandemic, an alternative hairdresser gift idea would be a product they could use to self-pamper at home. The Knesko Skin Gemstone Roller is an excellent option: Choose from four gemstones (rose quartz, obsidian, green jade, or white jade) depending on the energy you’d like to bestow on your stylist. The beauty tool will serve their skin as much as it serves their soul.

Knesko Skin Gemstone Roller

$80

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6. Balmain Hair Couture Standard Golden Spa Mini Brush 3-Piece Set
Surprise the hairdresser on your list who’s been particularly good this year with this gold-plated set from Balmain. While a splurge, the 3-piece boxed set includes a 14K gold spa hair brush complete with boar bristles that carry hair’s natural oils from the scalp to the tip of the strand, and a matching pocket mirror — both handmade. The gift also includes a travel-sized bottle of the brand’s hair oil, a must for every routine to ensure hair stays hydrated and lustrous.

Balmain Hair Couture Standard Golden Spa Mini Brush 3-Piece Set

$30

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7. Fairly Odd Novelties Novelty Scissors Mug
We’re willing to bet that anyone personally responsible for cutting, shaping, and styling the hair of dozens of clients a week is running on caffeine. Whether their preference is coffee or tea, they’ll love pouring their poison into this novelty mug every morning. The steel handle is designed to mimic the user’s most-used tool, and its ceramic body will keep their beverage of choice nice and toasty so they can sip while they snip.

Fairly Odd Novelties Novelty Mug

$14.99

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8. StellaPosh Dainty Scissor Necklace
Rather than treating the stylist on your list to a new set of tools, why not think outside their cosmetology bag and more along the lines of something they’d find in their jewelry box? For example, this dainty scissor necklace from the StellaPosh shop on Etsy is a unique gift for hairdressers they’re sure to love. The sweet, handmade accessory comes in three finishes (gold, rose gold, and silver) and measures 17 inches long, with the option to include a 2-inch extender. It’s a little reminder that their craft doesn’t go unappreciated.

StellaPosh Dainty Scissor Necklace

$42

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9. Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset Intensive Recovery Glycerin Hand Mask
Hairdressers might be standing on their feet all day, but their hands are constantly moving. As long as there’s a client in their chair, there’s a styling tool in hand, be it a pair of scissors, a hairdryer, flat or curling iron, etc., and a gentle wash of soap and water will only do so much for their skin. That’s where the Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset mask comes in. The intensive recovery treatment is an overnight formula designed to deeply moisturize and revitalize hands. It’s made from 40% glycerin, murumuru and mango butters, Barbados cherry extracts, and other plant-derived ingredients that, collectively, deliver earth-conscious, better-for-you self-care.

Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset Intensive Recovery Mask

$22

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10. Gelid Store Because Clients Stemless Wine Glass
One of the best hairdresser gifts on Amazon is, by far, this stemless wine glass from the Gelid Store. The truth of the matter is, hairdressers don’t just cut hair, they listen to their clients’ every woe. They’re stylists and therapists, and sometimes even have to deal with unhappy customers that end up not exactly loving their ‘do. Ergo, they can cheers away the bad days with this sassy wine glass that just gets them (and will most likely make them giggle).

Gelid Because Clients Funny Stemless Wine Glass

$12.95

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11. Merit Beauty Five Minute Morning
For the hairdresser on your list who struggles to get out the door in a timely fashion if they’re doing a full face of makeup, there’s Katherine Powers’ MERIT. This five-minute makeup routine comes fully equipped with the seven essential products in a minimalist glam routine, including The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick, Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil, Flush Balm Cheek Color, Brown 1980 Volumizing Pomade, Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara, Brush No.1 Blending Brush, and Day Glow Highlighting Balm. Every product in the kit is vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and perfect for travel, so they can take their favorite products to work with them for afternoon touch-ups.

MERIT Beauty Five Minute Morning

$200 
$170

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12. Costa Farms Aloe Vera Live Indoor Plant
Aguirre tells WWD if you know your stylist is a plant lover, adding to their collection can be “a wonderful gesture.” If you’re not sure whether or not they’d be looking to decorate their desk or bring it home after their shift, stick with a small-yet-statement-making plant, like this aloe vera option from Costa Farms. It’s approximately one pound and seven-inches tall, and maintenance is minimal — it only requires roughly ½ cup of water every two weeks, so if your hairdresser is super busy, they can still enjoy their plant doing the bare minimum.

Costa Farms Aloe Vera Live Indoor Plant

$20.80

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13. Coco Rossi Passport Holder
For the hairdresser you know is always on the go, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Trademark Beauty, Joseph Maine tells WWD gifts like personalized travel tags or a passport holder are highly appreciated. Something like this pick from Coco Rossi is a great example: It comes in an array of colors and artwork, so there’s something for everyone. It boasts a minimalist design but can hold credit cards, a license, loose cash, a boarding pass, etc., in addition to a passport.

Coco Rossi Passport Holder

$10.99

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14. LLDgiftsByLaurenLash Heavyweight Cable Knit Monogram Blanket
On the list of best gifts hairdressers have ever received, Maine says he recently received a monogrammed throw blanket and “absolutely loves it.” Etsy is a one-stop-shop for some amazing monogram items, and this includes blankets. This heavyweight cable knit option designed by Lauren Lash, for instance, is made to order. Before checkout, you are prompted to choose your leather patch color, the color of your blanket, and add your personalization. The result is a cozy blanket with a sentimental touch your stylist will love snuggling under every night.

LLDgiftsByLaurenLash Heavyweight Cable Knit Monogram Blanket

$78

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15. Sharpie Permanent Markers
If you’re looking for a funny gift for your hairdresser they’ll actually use, Toth has just the thing. “Hairdressers are known for wearing a lot of black, so the equivalent of a Tide Pen for a hairdresser is a Black Sharpie,” he tells WWD over email. “When hairdressers get bleach on their black clothes, they use a sharpie to hide the white spots,“ Toth explains, so if you want to make your stylist giggle with a gag gift that’s also completely functional, a box of markers will do.

Sharpie Permanent Markers 4-Pack

$4.87

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