Sharing some inspiration for your holiday mood board as we enter the festive season.

This edition was originally published on December 12, 2022. Enjoy!

This season is all about sparkle. Everything seems to shine a little brighter this time of year, from the decorations to the festive party wear. Despite the lower temperatures, we get the urge to put on our best and battle the crowds and traffic for a bit of merriment with those we love. It’s a magical period, especially here in London, the home of A Christmas Carol and Paddington. The coming weeks will bring many mugs of mulled wine, piles of mince pies and a plate of pudding or two.

To help you get into the spirit of the season, this week’s group of finds is meant to add a glistening final touch. They are all showstoppers in their own way, helping you to achieve the look and atmosphere you’re after during the holiday season.

Let it glow, let it glow, let it glow.

P.S. MIDDI’s weekly “How to Shop for … “ edition will return after the new year. Stay tuned!

1. Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator ($30)

necessaire

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Scrubs are not my favorite skincare category. They’re typically too harsh for my face, too greasy for my body and often drain-clogging. This one, however, gives me a full-body glow without the unpleasant side effects on my skin. Nécessaire, the brand founded in 2018 by Nick Axelrod and Randi Christiansen, combines physical exfoliants like volcanic pumice and charcoal bamboo with acids and niacinamide in their jelly-like exfoliator which foams up and rinses away cleanly. Massage it all over once or twice a week to slough away dry winter skin.

2. Kurt Geiger London Duke Crystal (£189)

kurtgeiger

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A great party shoe can get you out the door feeling fabulous in no time. And with a heel that’s just high enough and loads of sparkling crystals, these heeled mules from Kurt Geiger (previously featured here) are the ultimate party shoe (also available in blue). I like to balance my neutral wardrobe with fun shoes like these, and I also love that they’re backless, which hopefully means fewer blisters after dancing the night away. Wear them with a simpler dress or leather leggings so they stand out or embrace the colorful Geiger aesthetic and go bold from head to toe.

Note: While this still is no longer available, Kurt Geiger has plenty of other sparkling options in this year’s party edit.

3. Applicata Blossom Candleholders (€55 and up)

applicatadesign

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Lighting helps you set the mood for any event, and candles are one way to give your space a cozy, romantic vibe. I am having quite a love affair with Danish design right now. I was gifted a set of these gorgeous candleholders from Applicata by a dear friend recently, and I love the minimalistic shape and beautiful variety of colors and finishes. They make such a striking, elegant statement on a tabletop, mantle or sideboard—you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to put them out. Make sure to pick up a box of matching candles as well.

Something to think about …

crisis_uk

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The UK is in the midst of a dire cost-of-living situation that’s making this winter even harder for many. Crisis supports the unhoused by providing shelter, meals and more. If you have a similar organization near you, this is the season to give what you can.

MIDDI is a weekly newsletter highlighting the best mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys written by a millennial with a (somewhat under control) shopping problem. Let me know what you’re shopping for in the comments or send me a message.