Stimuli

It’s the final days before Christmas and for once, I am not out there battling the crowds!  Yahoo!!  I think this is the first year I managed to shop for everyone with time to spare.  So what am I doing with that spare time?  I am thinking about what to lounge around in on Christmas Day.  I don’t want to be in pyjamas all day.  I want something cozy, chic, and comfortable.  That means layers of cashmere, soft cotton blends and plush knits combined with a little holiday sparkle.  

I found this long sleeve raglan t-shirt by Groceries Apparel on sale at Holt Renfrew. Groceries Apparel uses a combination of certified organic cotton, non-toxic hemp, soy, and even recycled plastic.  The best feature, aside from how amazingly soft it is, is the curved hem detail.  It makes an ordinary long sleeve raglan t shirt special.

I was in Seattle last weekend to do some Christmas shopping and  I was cruising through Anthropologie when my fingers grazed this sweater by Lilka.  It was love at first touch. I could literally live in it.  I love the pockets.  It always feels cozier when there are pockets! Don’t you think so?

At Banana Republic Factory I bought these drawstring leggings. The super soft charcoal grey legging will look perfect with my top by Groceries Apparel and layered with my sweater from Anthropologie.  Can you feel it? I’ll be curled up on my couch with my mug of cider watching my kids tear into their gifts all while lounging comfortably in softness.

I am always cold.  My favourite thing to wear indoors to keep me warm is a lightweight cashmere scarf.  How about this navy one from Club Monaco?  I bought mine last year.  This year I am coveting the same scarf but in blush pink. Seriously soft, cozy, and warm.  But not sweaty. Sweaty is not chic!  

Now just like the sparkly star on top of your tree, I love to add a little holiday sparkle.  I’ll be wearing this deep blue chiffon and crystal bracelet by Chan Luu. Just for fun my fingertips will sparkle with confetti.  This topcoat from Sephora by OPI is so easy to apply even if you’ve had two egg nogs too many.  I always wear gloss. This shimmery (not 80’s frosty) gloss #46 Golden Gloss by YSL is perfect!  

I can hardly wait for our stockings to be filled, for my kids' feverish excitement and the eventual mellow good cheer that fills my house.  The year has flown by so fast! I hope 2011 was an amazing style year for you.  Wishing all of you a wonderful holiday and all the best for a fabulous, chic, and stylish 2012!

by Michele Bromley
Blogger at Stilistaathome.com and Stimuli Magazine Contributor