12 Gifts For The Biggest Beauty Fan In Your Life

December 17, 2018, 3:15 pm

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We all have that one person on our Christmas list that knows Sephora aisles better than they understand their medical plans, that can't shop for groceries without donning the no-makeup makeup look, or that prefers watching beauty tutorials over the latest episode of The Handmaid's Tale. So, when the holiday comes around, it's clear that they should get something beauty-related as a gift. But what do you get the person who keeps track of every Ulta launch and has VIB Rouge status?

First, you want to make sure it's something the beauty fan in your life will actually use. What product does she restock often, like mascara or an application sponge? Second, you'll need to make sure it's not something she already has in her curated collection. Think: brand-new launches and limited-edition holiday sets from buzzy brands.

Still stumped? We've rounded up a few gifts that will make it seem like you know a thing or two about beauty trends — even if you don't know the difference between baking and draping. From K-beauty skin-care sets to influencer-made perfumes, ahead are the best holiday gifts to make a splash with the beauty lovers in your life.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Makeup fans know that after a good amount of time, brushes lose a certain freshness after the first few uses: They're not as soft, bristles go missing, and there's old makeup that just won't get out no matter how much you clean. So, gift them a brand-new set from a brand that influencers can't get enough of it, *and* that won't break the bank.

**Morphe** SET 681 - 18 PIECE BRUSH SET, $20, available at Morphe Brushes

Ouai and Summer Fridays have come together to bring you a set that hydrates your skin *and* hair. It's the perfect gift of relaxation, with a treatment mask to repair strands and a moisturizing face mask to soothe the skin. There's the added bonus of a cotton headband to add an authentic spa feel to it all, and tbh, makes for a cute ass selfie.
The set won't be available until December 25th ( hi, late gifters) on sephora.com, but you could sign up now for the waitlist on theouai.com.

**Ouai Haircare x Summer Fridays** Ouai Haircare x Summer Fridays Mask Set, $22, available at Sephora

Target, the megastore that never fails to trap us, released *tons* of beauty sets for the holiday season, including assorted bundles like this one. In this one box there are 12 goodies that include everything from an exfoliating cleanser to a highlighting powder for just $20.

**Target** Target Beauty Box - Holiday - Beauty Advent Calendar, $19.98, available at Target

**— PAID —**
If your giftee is *truly* beauty-obsessed, then they'll have likely already jumped on the beauty-essence bandwagon. And if they haven't? Well, all the more reason to enlighten them. Adored by beauty editors and bloggers alike, SK-II’s iconic Facial Treatment Essence is a must-have J-beauty staple in any beauty routine, thanks to the brand's proprietary PITERA™ — a super-potent “miracle ingredient” rich in vitamins, organic acids, minerals, and amino acids. Now, this cult favorite is available in a totally gorgeous, limited-edition bottle designed by artist Karan Singh. Whoever's lucky enough to unwrap and discover this bottle will surely be singing your praises.

**SK-II** KARAN Limited Edition Facial Treatment Essence, $229, available at SK-II

For those on your list that have a standing bi-weekly blowout appointment, let them have that luxury at home with this best-selling 2-in-1 straightening iron and paddle brush. Every time they cheat on their hairstylist with this easy-to-use styling tool, they'll be saving money and time.

**DryBar** Brush Crush Heated Straightening Brush, $145, available at Ulta Beauty

Kylie Cosmetics had super exciting releases this year from her 3-D Halloween products to the second installment of her KKW x KYLIE 2 collection. But the brand's latest drop for the holiday season definitely caught our attention with its ice blue packaging, on-trend products, and winter-themed names. The star product from the holiday collection that's worth gifting? The Chill Baby 14-pan eyeshadow palette; it has all the sparkle they'll need for the festivities and the perfect neutrals that'll be used way into 2019.

**Kylie Cosmetics** Chill Baby | Pressed Powder Palette, $44, available at Kylie Cosmetics

A true beauty lover is always in search of a mascara that can one-up the current fave. And it's always fun to try something that has rave reviews. *But* you know what's not fun? Spending more money on those aformentioned mascaras. Gift the beauty fan on your list this sampler of best-selling mascaras, which includes two full-sized products, a primer, and the mascara that won a 2018 Beauty Innovator Award.

**Sephora Favorites** Lashstash, $48, available at Sephora

If your favorite beauty fan has a 10-step skin-care routine, then they'll definitely appreciate this set from Soko Glam. The K-beauty e-commerce site put their 2018 Best of K-Beauty Award winners into a travel-size set. The person you gift it to can live out their good skin day dreams, even if they're on the go.

**Soko Glam** Best of K-Beauty Mini Set, $32, available at Soko Glam

Huda Beauty brand founders and sisters, Huda and Mona Kattan, have entered into the world of fragrance with the launch of Kayali. The perfumes are an ode to the Middle East with rich scents, and the Arabic name translates to "My Imagination." There are four different iterations, so you can pick one that suits the beauty fanatic on your list, and the best part is that the bottle is Instagram-worthy.

**Huda Beauty** KAYALI VANILLA | 28, $118, available at Sephora

If the person you're gifting doesn't leave the house without a full face of makeup, then help them by simplifying the nightly battle of taking it off. These reusable, washable cleansing pads replace makeup wipes by wiping off foundation, mascara, basically all of it with just water. Then, just throw it into the laundry load. It lasts them for 200 uses, so this 3-pack will probably last well past next Christmas.

**Face Halo** Face Halo Pro, $22, available at Face Halo

Beautyblenders are a cult-favorite for makeup devotees, so you can't go wrong with a colorful set that'll keep them blending well into 2019. They'll also feel the holiday spirit, even once the season is over, as the set comes with four cleansers in a peppermint scent.

**Beautyblender** SWEET INDULGENCE Beauty Sampler, $65, available at beautyblender

If they love beauty, then they know Rihanna's Fenty Beauty has been the most hyped makeup brand of 2018. So, one of the best beauty presents that can be given is a product from the brand's Chill Owt holiday collection, like this matte lipstick duo (that won the Readers' Choice in our 2018 Beauty Innovator Awards). The set comes in an adorably packaged ornament.

**Fenty** Two Lil Mattemoiselles - Chill Owt Edition, $19, available at Sephora

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Tiffany 'New York' Pollard Is The Beauty Influencer We Didn't Know We Needed

↧

Tiffany 'New York' Pollard Is The Beauty Influencer We Didn't Know We Needed

December 17, 2018, 3:25 pm

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"'Tis the season. Fa la la la la. Pick this shit up." That's just one of many one-liners in Fenty Beauty’s genius holiday gift guide featuring everyone's favorite H.B.I.C Tiffany Pollard, a.k.a. New York from Flavor of Love, and we’re still trying to process the 9:52 minutes we just watched.

Rihanna's namesake brand teamed up with the I Love New York reality star to give us the holiday haul video we didn’t know we needed — but are happy as hell we got. And, now that we think about it, there was really no better person for the job. In the video, Pollard makes convincing, tear-inducing arguments for spending your hard-earned coin on Fenty Beauty this season, and — honestly — we're sold.

For the person on your list who is hustling hard but still trying to look flawless, Pollard recommends the brand's best-selling Pro Filt'r Foundation. "You're gonna look flawless. You're gonna be killing the 'gram. You're going to be doing your thang, earning your coin, if you pick up this foundation," she raves. Her hilarious commentary continues for the brand's holiday highlighter palette, which she insists even your uncle, aunts, and stepchildren will appreciate. "I don't care what end of the prism you fall on — if you're lighter tone or deeper tone — it works," she adds.

As far as stocking stuffers go, the H.B.I.C. urges grandmas everywhere to step away from the tampons. "We don't want tampons, we want Stunna Lip Paints," she says, while rocking Unveiled, the universal chocolate-brown shade. There's also a pick for your uncensored, potty-mouthed BFF — you know, the girl who always shows up uninvited to everything — and for your lazy friend who "takes bird baths in the sink." Yes, you read that right... New York has no filter. Pollard also notes that the pointy packaging could double as a weapon. Thanks for the tip, sis!

The video — which you need to watch for yourself — is honestly a gift within itself. Now, where is the petition we can sign to make these Pollard-hosted beauty tutorials a permanent thing?

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12 Gifts For The Biggest Beauty Fan In Your Life

↧

The Best Red Lipsticks, According To Our Beauty Editors

December 17, 2018, 3:50 pm

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As much as we can appreciate a nude lipstick, sometimes we want a lip color that pops — especially over the holidays. What's a sparkly dress without a statement lip? But even though we're searching for ways to experiment with different shades and even texture ( hey, glitter lips), red lipstick is the gospel truth that will never steer you wrong.

The good news: There are tons of red lip options on the market. The bad news: There are tons of red lip options on the market. When looking for the right one, you have to take into account formula, color, and your skin tone. So, we asked a few R29 staffers to share their go-to reds. We're talking about the ones that have lasted through long nights, gotten them compliments, and impressed them enough to become a permanent part of their makeup collection. Ahead, the red lip colors that have our hearts... for now.

"When it comes to red lipstick there is none more iconic than MAC. Ruby Woo, Russian Red, Lady Danger... I never met a MAC red that I didn't like. But my favorite is Russian Red, because it's a little deeper with a brick undertone. As with all MAC lipsticks, the matte lasts forever without feeling too drying. And every time I wear this one, I get the inevitable question: *What lipstick is that?* " — Jessica Cruel, Deputy Beauty Director

**MAC** Russian Red Lipstick, $18.5, available at Macy's

"I always stayed away from red lipstick, because honestly, it was intimidating for me. But then, a makeup artist suggested I try this one out, and as hesitant as I was at first, I ended up *loving* it. It was the perfect red for my tan skin, and it was so easy to apply with its doe-foot applicator. Plus, it stays put through everything — I'm talking multiple cups of coffee. It's the one lipstick my boyfriend isn't afraid of kissing me with, and it's red!" — Thatiana Diaz, Beauty Writer

**Bobbi Brown** Luxe Liquid Lip Velvet Matte, $37, available at Bobbi Brown

"I’ve never met a Kosas lipstick that I didn’t love; the brand’s founder, Sheena Yaitanes, has perfected colors that magically look good on everyone. I don’t want to talk Phoenix up *too* much, because it’s limited edition and will therefore break your heart, but it’s the most gorgeous, fiery red that somehow — also as if by magic — feels low-maintenance and wearable for every day (or at least two or three days a week). It’s warm, but not so warm that it skews orange, and the formula is super hydrating without sacrificing that velvety semi-matte finish. I stan… even if the shade name reminds me of Ben Affleck’s truly appalling back tattoo."— Rachel Krause, Senior Beauty Writer

**Kosas** Weightless Lip Color Lipstick, $28, available at Neiman Marcus

"Ever since I discovered this lipstick in September, I feel like I've been the president of its fan club. I'm far from alone in loving it. Porn stars, brides, and teachers all clamor for this formula that can last through hours of eating, drinking, chit-chatting, and well, everything a porn star may do. While Pioneer is a favorite red shade for many, I'm more into Heroine, a red-orange that wakes up my face no matter how little I've slept." — Rachel Lubitz, Senior Beauty Writer

**Maybelline** SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick — Heroine, $9.49, available at Maybelline

"Honestly, someone could slap 'Blake Lively' on a battery and I'd buy it, but L'Oréal actually collaborated with the actress (and all-around goddess) to create this perfect red lipstick that is knock-me-out good. It's matte, but not too dry; soft, but not too creamy; and I love everything about it." — Samantha Sasso, Beauty Writer

**L'Oréal** Colour Riche Red Lipcolour — Blake's Red, $9.99, available at Ulta Beauty

"I keep this lipstick on display on my vanity — both because it's my go-to red, but also because I love the message of this particular tube. Whenever I have a big meeting or am nervous about something, a swipe of this gives me the extra push I need to walk in with confidence — or, at the very least, fake it." — Cat Quinn, Beauty Director

**Revlon** Live Boldly Super Lustrous Fire and Ice Lipstick , $4.99, available at Target

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I Tried $100 Worth Of H&M Beauty Products & Here's What I Thought

December 17, 2018, 4:10 pm

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Is H&M The Next Place To Get Beauty Products?

Beauty with Mi, hosted by Refinery29's beauty writer Mi-Anne Chan, explores the coolest new trends, treatments, products, and subcultures in the beauty world. Never miss an episode by subscribing here.

As more and more fashion brands enter the beauty realm, shopping has become much more practical. If you're looking for say, a new button-down and another red lipstick to add to your growing collection, you need only stop by Zara, Forever21, or H&M to do so.

With fast fashion retailers launching trendy new makeup at what feels like lightning speed, it can be hard to parse through the thousands of products they have to offer. I decided to slowly put them to the test, starting with Urban Outfitters and now H&M.

H&M may be known for affordable fashion, but the store stocks a treasure trove of palettes, lipsticks, and highlighters, too — many of which cost under $10. This week, I put a full face of the brand's makeup to the test. See what's worth the money in the video above.

H&M Green Color Correcting Face Primer, $6.99, available at H&M; H&M All-Day Liquid Foundation, $9.99, available at H&M; H&M Precision Makeup Sponge, $4.99, available at H&M; H&M Oval Brush Set, $14.99, available at H&M; H&M Cover-Up Concealer, $7.99, available at H&M; H&M Translucent Invisible Powder, $14.99, available at H&M; H&M Eyeshadow Primer, $7.99, available at H&M; H&M Eyeshadow Pencil, $5.99, available at H&M; H&M Duo-It-All Eyeliner, $9.99, available at H&M; H&M Mascara, $9.99, available at H&M; H&M Spotlight Glow Powder, $7.99, available at H&M; H&M Lipstick Pencil, $6.99, available at H&M.

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↧

Why Snakeskin Should Be Your New Favorite Neutral

December 17, 2018, 10:00 pm

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As with anything when it comes to Rihanna, Bad Gal RiRi does it, and we want to, too. When the singer-cum-mogul was spotted wearing head-to-toe snakeskin (complete with a knit hat) at Coachella last April, it cemented what we already knew: the reptile pattern is here to stay.

For stylist Kandace Banks, it was a pair of Rochas yellow knee-high snakeskin boots that made her fall in love with the trend. "Last spring, when I did an internship with [stylist] Shiona Turini," Banks tells Refinery29. "I created a very detailed trend report for fall/winter 2018. And sure enough, as soon as the collections started to arrive in stores, I saw snakeskin everywhere."

Perhaps following Rihanna's lead, Off-White and Gucci each put snakeskin on their spring 2019 runways, cementing our love for the Slytherin-esque pieces. With so many heavy hitters embracing this iteration of animal print, for Banks, this trend's takeover was imminent.

Banks eventually bought a version of the boots at Mango and coordinated a photoshoot with her friends, each of them wearing the print. "I love wearing the trend, because I see it as a neutral that is often overlooked," she explains. The way she sees it, snakeskin can be a statement if it's done in a bold color (think those yellow python boots) – but when it's in a black and white colorway, the print can be mixed and matched with anything. To illustrate her point, Banks styled the following photoshoot using affordable brands.

Ahead, she offers tips for wearing the print and making it your own.

If head-to-toe snakeskin feels intimidating (á la Rihanna), just start with an accessory, like boots. "You'll find out that you love it so much that you'll eventually start adding more of the print to your closet."
*Jamila is wearing a Topshop coat, ASOS shirt, Uniqlo pants, with Aldo boots. Maya is wearing an ASOS shirt and Zara pants with Vince shoes.*

"I wore my blazer by itself as a dress, but you can definitely throw on a sleek turtleneck and pants with it, wearing it as an oversized blazer for the office." Banks also suggests wearing a printed silk button-up with trousers or snakeskin slacks with a solid-colored blouse for an office-ready look.
*Kandace is wearing a Zara blazer and belt with Mango boots.*

When it comes to wearing snakeskin for a night out, Banks says opt for a familiar silhouette in the print, like bodycon or leggings. "If you're feeling brave, you could wear your snakeskin work blazer as a dress with nothing under but your thigh-high boots."
*Kandace (on the left) is wearing a a Zara blazer and belt with Mango boots. Nana (on the right) is wearing a Zara shirt and skirt with Marc Fisher boots.*

When you're deciding which snakeskin prints will work well together, Banks says the key is to find tones that compliment each other. "For example, Nana's shirt had more brown in it, and it mixed well with the light beige in her skirt. The same goes for Maya's darker grey shirt against the washed out light grey of her pants. Jamila's bright yellow coat was such a statement (especially with the contrasting cuffs) that she's the only one that I didn't style in full snake print. I just gave her some white culottes from my own closet and put her in the same shirt as her twin [Maya]. It's all about playing around with the tones and then throwing in a statement color if you're feeling bold."
Jamila is wearing a Topshop coat, ASOS shirt, Uniqlo pants, with Aldo boots; Maya is wearing an ASOS shirt and Zara pants with Vince shoes; Nana is wearing a Zara shirt and skirt with Marc Fisher boots; Kandace is wearing a a Zara blazer and belt with Mango boots.

"Just have fun," Banks says. Being *open* to wearing snakeskin is the most important step. "You can't go wrong, whether you chose to wear a blazer, trousers, a blouse, or just an accessory," she notes, adding that the print works with all body types. "All it takes is you being confident enough to wear it."
*Nana is wearing a Zara shirt and skirt with Marc Fisher boots.*

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Your Cancer Horoscope For 2019 Is Here

December 18, 2018, 5:00 am

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If your career has seen its share of ups and downs in the last seven years, you have Uranus to thank, Cancer. The planet of change and innovation has been taking you on a ride through your 10th house of career and prestige. You may be relieved to know that he’s finally changing houses in 2019, but don't let that movement obscure what you learned from this period. You likely grew wiser and tougher from the challenges that came your way. On March 7, Uranus will make his way into your 11th house of friends, opening up your social circle to people who will inspire you. If all you’ve been able to talk about is work, it's high time to break out of this rut. Set your sights on recreation this year and watch your social circle expand.

Career
Uranus has made you a workaholic over the past seven years, but your creative juices will start to flow once he changes houses and moves into your house of friendship in March! Jupiter, the planet of luck, made his way into Sagittarius in late 2018 and spiced up your day-to-day routine at the office. Things are about to get way more interesting, and your place of employment may adjust their interior aesthetics to be more to your liking. Speak up and send a few Pinterest boards their way. Cancers know how to make a space cozy. A happy Cancer is a hard-working one.

Love
Your planetary ruler, the moon, will go through two eclipses this year, on January 20 or 21 in Leo and on July 16 in Capricorn. Both eclipses may affect Cancers who are currently coupled up, but don’t fret. If you come to a realization that something isn’t working anymore, figure out how you can move past it together. Mercury and Mars will conjunct from June 14 to the 19th, so you urging you to speak up about what’s on your mind, whatever your romantic circumstances may be.

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Your Gemini Horoscope For 2019 Is Here

December 18, 2018, 5:00 am

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The moon, your financial planet, will undergo two eclipses this year — mark your calendars for January 21 and July 16. Lunar eclipses herald endings and finality, but, with every loss comes a new understanding of how to move forward, Gem. You can stay prepared for anything by accepting the fact of change.

Jupiter, your personal planet of love, started moving into your seventh house of relationships in late 2018. He’s here to imbue your closest relationships with luck, meaning your current relationships could hit some major milestones in 2019. If romance isn’t on your mind, this fortuitous placement could lead you to enter into some fantastic partnerships, in business or art. Your ruling planet, Mercury, is up to his usual tricks in 2019. He's hitting three retrogrades on the following dates: March 5 to 28, July 7 to 31, and October 31 to November 20. Don’t push yourself too hard during these periods. Instead, they'll be beautiful opportunities to reconnect with your past, review old ideas, and ground yourself.

Career
The snow might not have melted at this point, but Mars will nevertheless heat things up when he visits your sign from March 31 to the 15th of May. This is an excellent time to spread the word about projects that you want to launch in the next 12 months. Neptune, your personal planet of career and the ruler of dreams, will be posted up in your 10th house all year long. His presence suggests that you may be hung up on unattainable goals or stuck searching for a dream job. Avoid getting swept away in unrealistic ambitions (or worse, a dead-end career) by listening to that practical voice in your head — or just your savviest friend.

Love
If you’re in a long-term relationship, Jupiter may help you move things forward with your partner this year. His lucky energy will cultivate a greater sense of harmony in your love life. If you’re single, you could meet a near-perfect match. Regardless of your relationship status, get ready to be the center of attention this spring, when action planet Mars heats up your sign from March 31 to May 15. And your magnetism will continue to attract admirers into the summertime. Venus, the planet of beauty and charm, will enter your sign on the 8th of June and stay there until the 3rd of July. She’s setting up shop to make you pop!

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This Winter: Pile On As Many Coats As Possible

December 18, 2018, 6:00 am

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A noble ogre named Shrek once said “Onions have layers. Ogres have layers. Onions have layers. You get it. We both have layers.” Yes, he was referring to the many emotional layers of human beings (or ogres). But it also brings to mind a key winter styling tip: layering your winter coats as a fashion statement. It’s an opportunity to pile on textures and showcase your style – even and especially when you’re outside braving the bitter cold. For us maximalists, layering is in our style DNA. We’ve always been in the camp that more is more, and that philosophy applies to our outerwear as well. Balenciaga’s FW18 collection took layering to a farcical level: hoodies, windbreakers, anoraks, parkas, etc. were carried by models making their way down the runway. The Cut’s Emilia Petrarca gave the stunt a go on her Instagram. While these experiments in extreme layering tickle our imagination, they’re unrealistically chunky. But it got us out of mental hibernation to brainstorm how to actually layer all of our coats. It’s time to stop throwing your fall coats and jackets into storage and see them as just another layer in your 5-tier outerwear cake. See how we achieved the multi-layered winter coat look while making it very fashion.

Left: Marni leather jacket; Acne Studios Cocoon Jacket, $900, available at Acne Studios; Marine Serre skirt and pumps; MSGM Jamaica Scarf, $113, available at SSENSE; MSGM Black Vinyl Gloves, $117, available at SSENSE. Right: Tome Round Shoulder Jacket, $598, available at Tome; Prabal Gurung sweater; Rachel Antonoff Jane Trench, $238, available at Rachel Antonoff; Pierre Hardy boots. Photographed by Samantha Casolari

Crop It Like It's Hot

Even when it's not! There’s a science to layering, one that hikers and mountaineers have perfected like their lives depend on it (in some cases they do). Every layer serves a distinct purpose. And the formula is: base layer (keeping the skin dry) + mid layer (warm and fuzzies) + shell layer (protection from the elements). We're giving this formula a not-so-technical-fabric take. Find that extra tough leather jacket to act as your shell layer. A longer wool coat serves as your mid-layer, and some extra dry cotton as your base layer. Cropped jackets may take a backseat in outerwear options once the weather turns frigid, but extend the length (and warmth) of them with a longer coat. The dimensional effect of layering doesn't only happen around the collar with multiple open coats – and by layering coats and jackets of varying lengths, you can play with the proportions in an unexpected way.

Pyer Moss coat; Proenza Schouler coat (underneath) and dress; Prabal Gurung Turtleneck; Ganni boots.

Double Duty

If your legs are extra sensitive to the cold, you’ll want to layer up on long johns, but also consider adding an extra-long coat. Stay in the same color family, but mix up the prints to ensure that everyone knows that you’re wearing two distinct coats. Don’t just stop there. Take something sporty and juxtapose that with something tailored and clean. You're ready for both the impending bomb cyclone and board meeting all in one day. This is a jacket combo you’ll want to fully sink into.

Left: Opening Ceremony coat, Tommy Hilfiger shirt; Assembly track pants; Tibi boots. Right: Woolrich x Griffin coat; Tommy Hilfiger boot.

Power Puff Girls

Puffers had a big, big moment this past year. And they’re still going strong. Eddie Bauer invented the first puffer jacket in the 1930s. Back then, the options for shades, textures, and lengths weren’t as vast as they are today (see: Artizia’s never-ending Super Puff collection). It’s been the jacket of choice every winter, because who doesn’t want to walk around engulfed by a cloud of warmth? Here, grunge meets the outdoors. These puffers are for those that love to take a hike (or chilly walk on the beach), but are also down to listen to Pearl Jam while doing it.

1 Moncler Pierpaolo Piccioli set available at Moncler.

PuffWoman

If Pearl Jam isn’t your jam, that’s okay. Be your own puffer-clad superhero this winter. Super powers include serving as a portable heat lamp for everyone around you and the ability to teleport somewhere hot and tropical while you wait for the subway in the cold. With this look, your coat is the star of the show. Ezra Miller wore this similar Moncler x Pierpaolo Piccioli Puffer Dress on the red carpet early November, and it sold out immediately online. It is otherworldly, and what our space princess dreams are made of.

Left: Rachel Antonoff Louie Quilted Robe, 428, available at Rachel Antonoff; The Arrivals Aero Scarf, $135, available at The Arrivals; Tibi boots. Right: Dauphinette Juliet Feathers Maxi Puffer, $570, available at Dauphinette; Gucci Printed Hood, $390, available at MyTheresa; Ganni Sneakers, $350, available at Ganni.

Sacai coat and pants; Dion Lee Aviation Oversized Sweater, 395, available at Dion Lee (tied as a scarf). Photographed by Samantha Casolari

Comforter To-Go

Comforters have the word "comfort" in them for a reason; parting with our comforter at home induces physical pain. No more sweet sorrows, however, thanks to the many comforter-like quilted coats on the market this fall. There's a science behind their warmth: The stitching pattern of quilted coats creates little pockets for stable clusters of insulation. This ensures that there are no areas of the jacket that cold air could potentially seep through.

Versus Versace Macro Animalier Furry Jacquard Coat, $1,375, available at Versace; Kenzo jacket and pants.

Convinced yet? On the first try, layering your winter coats might leave you with a mess of jackets and coats on your closet floor. But once you find your formulas, you’ll be feeling like a happy, multi-layered onion in no time. Trust us (and Shrek).

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"Spider Gel" Is The Coolest Holiday Nail Art Trend We've Ever Seen

December 18, 2018, 7:00 am

≫ Next: 17 Stunning (& Simple) Party Hair Looks To Try This Holiday Season

≪ Previous: This Winter: Pile On As Many Coats As Possible

From nail stickers to striping tape, we're always here for a product that makes creating cool nail art insanely easy. Because really, who wants to devote more than 30 minutes to their at-home manicure — or spend hours in a salon waiting for their artist to finish dotting on every last detail with a brush? So, when we found out about "spider gel," an innovative nail art formula sweeping Instagram (that requires almost no tools), we were immediately intrigued.

"It gives you the straightest lines you've seen in your life," nail artist and creative director of Paintbox, Julie Kandalec says. "It looks like a really thick gel, and then when you put a little toothpick or something in it, you can draw out a string of the stuff, and drape the gel on the nail." A few strands later and your fingertips are transformed into works of modern art.

During a season when nail art is typically all about glitter, Kandalec loves this stuff because it offers an alternative to the sparkly stuff. "This gives the option of a cleaner, more linear look," she says. But she does have one warning: This gel is best used on top of a gel manicure. "I feel like it won't last as long on top of just polish," Kandalec says. "Because you really should use a gel topcoat over it."

Available in shades of black, red, gold, and silver (for $12 a pop), consider spider gel the ultimate upgrade to your holiday gel mani. Check out our favorite takes on the trend, and all the ways artists are using it, ahead.

Here's the first spider gel design that really caught our eye. Starting with a matte black base, nail artist Magdalena Pietrowska layered strands of gold and silver spider gel onto each of the nails. To our surprise, it's a pretty easy look to achieve.

Instagram

To get this effect, Pietrowska held her fingers near the pot of spider gel, dipped a very thin brush into the formula, and dragged it across her nail beds. "It's like two seconds to get a perfectly straight line," Kandalec says.

Instagram

As you can see in this video, there's not just one way to apply this stuff. To get a webbed effect on the nail, artists can also rub the gel between their gloved fingers, pull it apart to create a "web," and then stick that right onto the nail. You'll want to pick up some nail polish guards, or keep some nail polish remover or alcohol nearby, if you're doing this to your own hand.

Instagram

Spider gel is a natural fit for accent nails; it instantly gives an edge to this sweet lilac manicure.

Instagram

Spider gel blends well with sparkle, too, as seen here on these wintry metallic silver nails.

Instagram

And it even works on top of a glitter base, like this holiday-appropriate gold-and-green design.

Instagram

Who knew that a few black lines could completely upgrade a standard French mani?

Instagram

Think about how hard it would be to create the straight lines in this design with a nail paint brush, or even a marker. With spider gel, these vertical lines likely took seconds with the pull-and-drape method.

Instagram

Negative space nails aren't going anywhere anytime soon, and you can bet on seeing a ton of spider gel iterations in 2019. If you look closely at this particular design, it appears that they dotted the gel onto their nails, then lifted and dragged it to various points to create the lines.

Instagram

If you lay the spider gel on too thick, you might end up with a raised effect on the nail. Some like that 3D look, but if it bothers you, Kandalec advises adding two layers of topcoat for a smooth finish.

Instagram

Now, if you're up for a challenge, this is an example of a geometric spider gel design that's nearly identical across all four nails. Using white spider gel over a matte burgundy base, the artist likely relied on the pull-and-drape method.

Instagram

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17 Stunning (& Simple) Party Hair Looks To Try This Holiday Season

December 18, 2018, 7:00 am

≫ Next: What The Winter Solstice Moon Means For You

≪ Previous: "Spider Gel" Is The Coolest Holiday Nail Art Trend We've Ever Seen

Holiday party season has arrived — and at the worst possible time for your wallet. After last week's routine root touch-up turned into a $200 single-process situation and this week's holiday gift swap did a number on your bottom line, you have two options: politely decline all fun party invites, or go, but spend zero dollars on the prep.

Here's the plan: Repeat your favorite LBD, dig up those sparkly earrings, and cancel your DryBar appointment. A little texture spray and a few well-placed bobby pins or a velvet bow is all you need to add some festive flair to your hair without leaving your bathroom.

If you're a little dry on inspiration, our editors are taking you through the simple and stunning hair looks we'll be wearing from now through New Year's Eve, and every party in between. Find the sleek, half-up ponytail or Tracee Ellis Ross-approved cornrows that will have you taking to the next (hopefully open) bar with gusto, ahead.

"My sneaky winter hairstyling hack is pulling my head through a big turtleneck sweater... and doing nothing else. I purposefully leave my hair tucked down into the back of my neck, add a a pair of chunky hoop earrings, maybe a pair of heels, and consider myself ready for whatever my casual Friday night has in store." —Megan Decker, Beauty Assistant

"Okay, so a turtleneck can be a hair accessory in and of itself. But when styled with a Jennifer Behr barrette, studded with big, shiny pearls, and a dewy cheekbone highlight — you get a vision in profile." —Decker

"Oh the things I would do to get my hands on this $300 braided velour headband..." — Decker

"Zoey Deutch has the hair color of my dreams, but as much as I could go on about the way the light bounces off the flecks of auburn in those highlights, I'm really here for the style. This glossy half-up, half-down look is one I think I could achieve on my own, without hopping on a flight to Los Angeles for an appointment with Tracey Cunningham." —Decker

"Tracee Ellis Ross is a hair icon, and she's been wearing a lot of straight-back cornrows and two-strand twist styles lately. So, naturally, I want to wear nothing but cornrows through the rest of the year. One problem: I can't braid to save my life. But when I go home for Christmas, I'm going to convince my mom that we should kick it old-school and watch Disney movies while she braids me up. " —Jessica Cruel, Deputy Beauty Director

"When I have anything formal to go to, I pull out my bobby pins to do a 'frohawk hairstyle. This year, I'm swapping out my plain black bobbies for gold ones to give the look a festive update." —Cruel

"If anyone could convince me that I should go back to brunette, it's Bella Hadid — and colorist Jenna Perry. One of the best dye jobs I ever got went down in Perry's chair, and I'd easily trust her to take me from my cream-soda blonde highlights back to my dark-chocolate roots any day. Considering the fact that everyone seems to be obsessed with highlights and balayage lately, it's also refreshing to see a winter-friendly color like this back on our radar." —Sam Sasso, Beauty Writer

"I'm a hair-accessories stan, which means I'll wear them any day, week, or month of the year, holiday season or no holiday season. But there's nothing like some jewel-toned bobby pins to get you in the mood for the kind of party that features eggnog and mistletoe." —Sasso

"Bows might be a hair trend most people wore in elementary school, but it's also the perfect holiday accessory. Consider it an added bonus that a black ribbon is the quickest way to dress up any boring ponytail." —Sasso

"I'm desperate to experiment with flowers in my hair for the holidays, but I'm worried I'm going to end up going overboard with an entire 1-800-Flowers bouquet in my top bun. This is an example of how to do flowers in your hair tastefully with help from a ton of bobby pins." —Rachel Lubitz, Senior Beauty Writer

"I've been hesitant to really go in on my secret love for headbands for fear that I'll end up looking like a fourth-grader, but this one is just too damn good to pass up. Imagine it with an all-black holiday ensemble, or even a red dress." —Lubitz

"Call me boring, but I'm bringing back my obsession with the boss bun — the sharply-parted, no B.S. knot that's perfect for getting shit done. This holiday season I'll be making a small change: Bring on the boss pony! It has all the strength of a low bun with a little more flair." —Lexy Lebsack, Senior Beauty Editor

"My colorist, Kari Hill, and I have been talking about me going pink for a while, and this is such a great time to do it. I especially love this rosy look she just created." —Lebsack

"Can this girl get any cooler? Awkwafina doesn't always go big with her hair and makeup, but when she does, I always want to copy it. I love this take on a '20s wave: It's smooth and uniform, but softer and straighter through the top. In fact, I'd likely copy her bronze makeup with it, too..." —Lebsack

"Kicki Yang Zhang's hair is unbelievable: Not only is her color gorgeous, but my goal in life is to have a haircut as bold and structured as hers. Plus, she accessorizes with fun, '90s-esque hair clips. What's not to love?" —Mi-Anne Chan, Beauty Writer

"I’m about to cut my hair and go natural to reclaim my curls, so I’ve been busy saving curly hairstyles on Instagram. I love a good updo during the holidays, and this one is just so simple, yet so voluminous. Plus, it’ll keep my hair out of the way while I stuff my face with my grandmother’s cooking." —Thatiana Diaz, Beauty Writer

"Given that I'm embarking on a natural hair journey, I want to get into wigs — and why not have fun with color during the most festive time of the year? I haven’t made up my mind yet on the colors, but I’m definitely leaning towards purple. Hey, it’s non-committal, so maybe I’ll try out a variety." —Diaz

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↧

What The Winter Solstice Moon Means For You

December 18, 2018, 7:10 am

≫ Next: If You Love Holiday Movies, Read This

≪ Previous: 17 Stunning (& Simple) Party Hair Looks To Try This Holiday Season

This Friday, December 21, marks the winter solstice, aka the first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and the shortest day of the year. Clocking in at only nine hours and 15 minutes of daylight on the East Coast, Friday will be spent mostly in darkness — can you blame us for paying extra-close attention to the moon?

This year, the solstice arrives one day before the full moon, so the moon on Friday will technically still be a waxing gibbous. Spiritually speaking, this lunar phase is associated with growth, development, and progress. The waxing gibbous moon is the final stage before the full moon and its energy matches that anticipation you feel just before finishing a major project or meeting a long-term goal. In other words, this phase holds a lot of promise for us, energizing us to keep moving while reminding us of all we've done so far to reap the fruits of our labor.

The fact that the waxing gibbous and its corresponding influences coincides with the winter solstice is truly the happiest coincidence.

If you've never observed the winter solstice, this day has deep roots in nature-based faiths, such as Wicca and Paganism, where it's also referred to as Yule. Traditionally, it was a day to spend with friends and family, eating, drinking, swapping gifts, and generally celebrating the fact that you reached the end of another turn around the Wheel of the Year. While this still a completely appropriate (and, might we say, fun) way to honor the solstice, your observances can take a more introspective bent if you'd prefer.

Solstice reflections have quite a bit in common with those you'd practice during the waxing gibbous moon, but their key similarity is the theme of growth. As we mentioned, the winter solstice essentially signals the end of the year, making it a natural time to look back and see how far you've come in the last 12 months. But, not only should you celebrate how much you've changed and developed in that time, but you should then look ahead and see where you ought to go in the year to come.

With that in mind, the particular phase in the lunar cycle and the particular moment in the year that will align this Friday are sending you the same message: Pause and celebrate your personal progress. Then set your sights on your next goal.

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If You Love Holiday Movies, Read This

December 18, 2018, 7:20 am

≫ Next: 15 Body Lotions That Will Make Winter (Sort Of) Bearable

≪ Previous: What The Winter Solstice Moon Means For You

'Tis the season to be jolly. And, what could possibly be jollier than slipping on a comfy onesie, commandeering the couch, and settling in for a movie marathon? Nothing, that's what.

With Halloween behind us, it's time to set our sights on the holiday season. That means lots of twinkle lights, hot chocolate, and holiday music. But it also means that there will be tons of holiday movies available to stream on all your favorite apps and sites for the next few months. And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with your old pals Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon Instant Video and Hulu?

Consider this your ultimate movie playlist. Many of these are holiday classics; some are feel-good films that make you feel a little less Grinch-like, and all are available to stream online. All you need now is to hire an elf to keep the eggnog and Christmas cookies coming.

*The Apartment*, 1960
This Billy Wilder classic is easily the best film involving New Year's Eve ever. Shut up and deal, indeed.
**Watch On:** Amazon Instant Video
Photo: Courtesy United Artists.

*Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale*, 2010
Brush up on your Finnish (or ok, just read the subtitles) for this weird and wonderful tale of an archaeological dig in rural Finland that unearths the origins of Santa. Children vanish, someone who might be Saint Nick gets held for ransom, and elves seek their revenge. As we said, weird, but so, so good.
**Watch On:** Amazon Instant Video
Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX Shutterstock.

*Planes, Trains & Automobiles*, 1987
Technically, this is a Thanksgiving film, but a holiday is a holiday. Plus, you can break up those awkward silences with the family by throwing out a quote ("Those aren't pillows!) from time to time. Just avoid the urge to tell your step-mom to wipe that fucking, dumbass smile off her rosy, fucking cheeks.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy Paramount Pictures.

**A Christmas Prince**
A journalist is assigned to interview a royal, and ends up falling for him.
**Watch On: Netflix**

*Trading Places*, 1983
Eddie Murphy's hustler steals Dan Akroyd's hoity-toity existence for a bet. Akroyd is then forced to shack up with Jamie Lee Curtis (poor guy) and smuggle roast beef into his filthy Santa beard.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy Paramount Pictures.

*It's a Wonderful Life*, 1946
Resistance is futile.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of RKO Radio Pictures.

*The Santa Clause*, 1995
Long ago, in the glory days of *Home Improvement*, Tim Allen was the Santa Claus that every kid needed. Or at the very least, he was required to be Santa Claus due to a legal clause. The best part? Understanding all the jokes now that you're not a child.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock

*The Radio City Christmas Spectacular*, 2007
Just because you can't make it to New York City, doesn't mean you can't enjoy the magic of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. It's feel-good holiday fun filled with dancing, lights, and high kicks, courtesy of the Rockettes.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.

*Just Friends*, **2005**
Long before Ryan Reynolds was the internet's favorite snarky boyfriend in a Deadpool suit, he was the star of this classic. Yes, it is a classic. Reynolds is at his sarcastic best in this one. And never forget the magic of Anna Farris as a pop star whose voice will haunt your dreams after you hear songs like "Forgiveness."
**Watch It On:** Netflix
Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

*A Charlie Brown Christmas*, **1965**
Is it Christmas if we don't hear the Peanuts theme song? Is it Christmas if Pig-Pen doesn't dance? What if Linus doesn't drag his blankie? The answer is no. We need you, Charlie Brown. You're a Christmas classic.
**Watch It On:** ABC Go.
Photo: Courtesy of ABC.

*The Nightmare Before Christmas*, 1993
What kind of Christmas would it be without Jack Skellington?
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Touchstone/REX/Shutterstock.

*Elf*, 2003
Don't even try to pretend that you don't already own this on DVD.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of New Line Cinema.

*Mariah Carey's Merriest Christmas*, 2015
How does the official queen of Christmas celebrate? With her own holiday special, of course. Prepare for the most random of celebrity cameos (Lacey Chabert, Kelsey Grammar, and Babyface) and all the glitter a die-hard Mariah Lamb can handle.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy of The Hallmark Channel.

*A Christmas Story*, 1983
Every year you roll your eyes about this film taking over your TV, and every year you wind up watching it anyway. Truth be told, there's not much point in renting it when you know it's going to be airing for free 24/7.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of MGM.

*Die Hard*, 1988
Because it's makes your company Christmas party seem a little less hellish. Because "Ho ho ho, now I have a gun" still cracks you up. Because it always makes you crave Twinkies and Coke.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy 20th Century Fox.

*Serendipity*, **2001**
A chance meeting while celebrating Christmas in New York brings together to strangers (Kate Beckinsale and John Cusack). If that sounds cheesy, just know that it is. But we could also use a little cheesy during the holidays.
**Watch It On:** Netflix.
Photo: David Lee/Tapestry Films/REX/Shutterstock.

*The Legend of Frosty the Snowman*, **2005**
When you have your own theme song, you're kind of a big deal. At least, in the holiday world. *The Legend of Frosty the Snowman* is the perfect holiday movie to watch with siblings, nieces, nephews, and children of your very own.
**Watch It On**: Netflix.
Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.

*A Very Murray Christmas*, **2015**
What do you get when you put together Bill Murray, Miley Cyrus, George Clooney, and some holiday cheer? A holiday special that is part joyful, part hipster, part cringeworthy, but totally worth the watch.
**Watch It On**: Netflix
Photo: Ali Goldstein/American Zoetrope/South Beach Productions/REX/Shutterstock.

*The Year Without a Santa Claus*, **1974**
What's more fun than stop-motion animated holiday movies? Absolutely nothing. *The Year Without a Santa Claus* shows us what would happen to the world if Santa just decided to call it quits. It also features a badass Mrs. Claus basically trying to save Christmas.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of Warner Brothers.

*Snow Day,* **2000**
*Snow Day* is a great example of Nickelodeon taking a real-life event — the love of having a snow day when you're a kid — and turning it into a feature-length film. It will also warm your heart because of all the nostalgia.
**Watch It On:** Netflix
Photo: Douglas Curran/Paramount/Nickelodeon/Mff/REX/Shutterstock.

*The Muppet Christmas Carol,* **1992**
There are countless versions of *A Christmas Carol* in the world. Why not have yours with a Muppets twist? There's also the added benefit of Michael Cain playing surly old Scrooge.
**Watch It On:** HBO Go.
Photo: Jim Henson Productions/REX/Shutterstock.

*Gremlins*, 1984
Seriously, the worst present EVER.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros.

*Miracle on 34th Street*, 1947
This Christmas classic starts out with a drunk Santa and only gets better. A bit sappy, maybe. But, we fall for it every year.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox.

*Scrooged*, 1988
How can one of the funniest films of all time still make us blubber like babies in the final scene? Damn you and your selective talking, Calvin (sniff).
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy Paramount Pictures.

*Home Alone*, 1990
Man. Nearly a quarter of a century later, and we still want to be that kid.
**Watch On:** HBO Go
Photo: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox.

*Love Actually*, 2003
Best scene: "Good King Wenceslas." Worst scene: A tie between that evil Rick Grimes trying to horn in on his best mate's wife and anything featuring Alan Rickman's horny secretary.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: SNAP/REX/Shutterstock.

*When Harry Met Sally*, 1989
We should probably hate this film for conning us into thinking we'd meet our one true love at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, but it's still adorable.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.

*Lethal Weapon*, 1987
Hey, sometimes you've just got to shake things up. And, no matter what Mel Gibson does, Danny Glover is still awesome.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros.

*Bridget Jones's Diary*, 2001
Yes, it's totally okay to fall for the guy in the ugly reindeer sweater. Even if he is a bit of a snot sometimes.
**Watch On:** Hulu
Photo: Courtesy of Miramax Films.

*Bad Santa*, 2003
Bernie Mac and John Ritter in the same film? Hold. It. Together. And, maybe watch this one after the kids have gone to bed.
**Watch On:** HBO Go
Photo: Courtesy Miramax Films.

*Misery*, 1990
Hmmm. Now that you think about it, your home-for-the-holidays situation really isn't that bad, is it? Count on Kathy Bates to put things into perspective.
**Watch On:** Amazon Video
Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.

*The Holiday*, 2006
*The Holiday:* Nurturing fantasies that you'll meet a gorgeous and sensitive Brit during your sublet since 2006.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.

*Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas* **, 2000**
Look this isn't a good movie. But it's always there when you need a holiday movie pick-me-up! And there's baby Taylor Momsen as a Who!
**Watch On:** HBO Go
Photo: Ron Batzdorff/Imagine Ent/REX/Shutterstock.

*Hook*, 1991
This one always makes us think happy thoughts.
**Watch On:** Hulu
Photo: Courtesy TriStar Pictures.

*White Christmas*, 1954
Oh, go on. Do it for Grandma — and because Bing Crosby's voice is just one of those things that makes the holidays better.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy Paramount Pictures.

*Happy Christmas*, 2014
Anna Kendrick, Melanie Lynskey, and, yes, Lena Dunham star in this indie dramedy.
**Watch On:** Netflix
Photo: Courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

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15 Body Lotions That Will Make Winter (Sort Of) Bearable

December 18, 2018, 7:30 am

≫ Next: The 10 Best Fragrance Gifts For Difficult People

≪ Previous: If You Love Holiday Movies, Read This

It's no surprise that, in the definitive list of the best and worst months of the year (yes, there is a definitive list of the best and worst months of the year), most Americans rank January and February in a tie for dead last, with March not far behind. Maybe it's the bitter windchill, the sheer inconvenience of having to shovel snow off your car just to pull out of your driveway, the lack of light past 5 p.m., or the onset of seasonal affective disorder that makes winter such a drag — or, more likely, it's all of the above. Toss dry skin into the mix, and yeah, you've got a frontrunner for worst season of the year.

To be fair, dry skin isn't restricted to winter, as anyone who suffers from it year-round will be more than happy to tell you. But it does tend to worsen when the weather is cold and blustery, and it's also harder to treat when you're fighting against the elements. That's why you need to arm yourself with the best heavy-duty body lotions, balms, oils, and even butters to tackle the problem from head-to-toe before April — America's fifth favorite month — rolls around.

Our top body lotion picks for winter, ahead.

This balm is in a league of its own for one reason: lanolin, a wool-derived wax that has been known to absorb faster and deeper into skin than other moisturizing agents on the market. Even the most dire skin woes can be healed by this stuff.

**Lanolips** Everywhere Multi-Cream, $17, available at Violet Grey

As soft as a freshly-washed basket of white linens — and lightly scented like one, too — this gentle formula is lovable for all skin types, including the most sensitive.

**Avène** Moisturizing Melt-In Balm, $30, available at Birchbox

It's French, fragrance-free, and comes with a pump for easy, soothing relief. What more could you ask for?

**Bioderma** Atoderm Cream, $17.89, available at Violet Grey

Slather your body — face and hair, too! — in this vitamin-packed oil straight out of the shower when your skin is still damp to trap in moisture and keep the bitter cold out, all day long.

**Sans Ceuticals** Activator 7 Body + Hair + Face Oil, $40.17, available at Sans Ceuticals

Technically you should avoid extra-hot showers to keep your skin happy when it's cold outside, but if you just can't break the habit, pick a luxe body oil to smooth over your skin post-shower to make up for it. The pure rose oil in this formula, sourced from Damascene roses, will make you feel like you're bathing better than a modern-day Marie Antoinette.

**Susanne Kaufmann** Rose Oil, $73, available at Need Supply Co

Whether you like to spend your winters locked inside with the heat cranked and a hot cup of tea in hand or bravely hitting the slopes, this all-over balm will repair wind-battered skin no matter where you fall on the dryness spectrum. Chamomile and aloe juice calm irritation, while the calendula and shea butter soothe overnight.

**Buckler's** Chapped Skin Remedy, $22, available at Buckler's

Free from pore-clogging oils, wax, and silicone fillers, this shea butter-and-honey formula is *the* body moisturizer to pack in every suitcase you own.

**Malin + Goetz** Vitamin b5 Body Moisturizer, $40, available at Malin + Goetz

Salves are the unsung hero of body care: They pack a major punch of hydration where you *really* need it, like the backs of your arms, hands, elbows, and knees. This purse-friendly tin will keep your driest patches soft in a pinch.

**Burts Bees** Burt's Bees Hand Salve, $7.89, available at Target

Wheat germ — yes, wheat germ — is the hero ingredient in this skin-soothing formula, which hydrates, relieves irritation, and promises to calm eczema, too. It's just the icing on the cake that the packaging looks great in an Instagram.

**Aesop** Resolute Hydrating Body Balm 120ml, $35, available at SkinStore

It might not be the sexiest tube of lotion, but it is one of the most universally beloved for sensitive skin. This no-frills moisturizer rehydrates without oils, dyes, or added fragrances, so you never have to worry about your body care making those skin flare-ups even worse.

**Vanicream** Moisturizing Cream Skin Cream, $8.99, available at Target

But if you're trying to fit your aesthetic while simultaneously easing itchy, dry skin, here's your solution: This multi-purpose balm uses coconut, monoi, and argan oils to quickly absorb into skin so you might look — and smell — like you belong in a tropical paradise... not in a blizzard.

**Meant** The Absolute Balm, $45, available at Meant

If you have eczema-prone skin, this one's for you: Fragrance-free and lighter than a feather, this simple cream keeps dry skin at bay and calms flare-ups on contact.

**La Roche-Posay** Lipikar Eczema Soothing Relief Cream, $14.99, available at DermStore

Since winter seems to be the longest season of 'em all, it's helpful to look for a body product that doesn't just soothe dry patches in a quick pinch, but keeps you hydrated in the long run. We know this emollient cream was originally formulated for infants and diaper rush, but it's just as good for an adult's scaly elbows and arms. Even better, it includes AHAs so your roughest spots are smooth in just a few uses.

**Mustela** Stelatopia Emollient Cream, $26, available at DermStore

Sometimes you have to treat your elbows and heels to some extra T.L.C. — especially when Mother Nature has restricted your winter footwear to anything bulky and tight. Treat your calloused patches with this heavy-duty cream that is as exfoliating as it is softening.

**Glytone** Ultra Softening Heel and Elbow Cream, $54, available at DermStore

When you want to smell like that mom-and-pop cabin in the Catskills, but don't have the spare budget to make the trip, smooth on this woodsy-scented body oil. Yes, it's deeply moisturizing, relieves irritated skin, and doesn't leave you slick and greasy, but it also smells exactly like it would if you were hiking Kaaterskill Falls and not stuck in the office forced to inhale your coworker's leftover takeout.

**Naturopathica** Deep Forest Bath & Body Oil, $34, available at DermStore

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The 10 Best Fragrance Gifts For Difficult People

December 18, 2018, 8:00 am

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Everyone is difficult in their own way, which is why the myth of people who are "difficult to shop for" is not only patently ridiculous but, quite frankly, a bit rude. Unless the person you are shopping for is a child who has written out a list of the exact items they would like (or, more likely, provided the link to a running Amazon wishlist) or someone who collects something wildly specific (roosters or elephants for good luck, perhaps?), it is standard to have to put forth some effort to find something that suits your people and their complex, multifaceted selves perfectly.

What is unarguably difficult is picking out fragrance for other people. Sure, you can confidently buy your mom her 10th bottle of Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue without pause, but when you want to introduce a seasoned fragrance fanatic to a new scent, you've got your work cut out for you. Perfume, after all, is personal — but the challenge of finding someone something they'll actually want to wear is better than buying someone a porcelain doll for their overflowing, creepy-as-fuck collection, don't you think?

Ahead, a compilation of fragrances and gift sets that acknowledge and account for the idiosyncrasies of the people you care about — and show them how much you love them anyway.

Consider the trope of the manic pixie dream girl, and then picture what would happen if she gave up on her dreams of moving out to the desert to become the next Georgia O'Keeffe and got an executive gig raking in six figures instead. That's who this intense, commanding floral fragrance, which combines a woodsy rose with the rare Rangoon creeper, is for: the freelance wild child who finally learned the value of being gainfully employed and now has dollar signs in her eyes where stars used to be. She can keep the portable rollerball in her pebbled-leather laptop case and the 1.6 oz bottle on her vintage armoire — right next to the dried flowers she still strings through her hair when you go to the bar on weekends. At least she always picks up the tab.

**Gucci** Gucci Bloom Nettare di Fiori Eau de Parfum Gift Set, $146, available at Sephora

Despite its enduring popularity among well-off women of a certain age and Marilyn Monroe wannabes, Chanel No.5 — with its heady aldehydes and elegant floral fadeout — is not for everyone. But people who love it really, really love it, and that's why you should absolutely buy them this limited-edition collectible *eau de parfum* bottle, which is all done up in rich blood red to match Gabrielle Chanel's favorite color. (An even better gift for the No.5 diehard in your life would be the 30.4 oz, $30,000 pure *parfum* extract packaged in Baccarat crystal, but unless you just won Powerball, that's probably more of a long shot.)

**Chanel** N°5 Limited Edition Eau de Parfum Spray, $160, available at Chanel

Yoga, in reality, smells like boob sweat and strangers' feet, but the *idea* of yoga smells like this: the lightest, most ethereal combination of amber and white musk spun into a beautiful, airy scent that's best described as clean. You've never smelled anything like it — and neither has your most quote-unquote spiritual and yet flakiest friend, who's always fifteen minutes early for Bikram but consistently "forgets" all about your Friday night plans. Double down on the transcendent fragrance with the same scent in candle form, which is made with 100% soy wax and will pair perfectly with the wind-down stretch for the classes she'll teach once she completes the 200-hour training program she's been talking about doing for the past two years.

**Lake & Skye** 11 11 Eau de Parfum, $98, available at Lake & Skye

Pizza or Chinese food for delivery? Loose ponytail or messy bun? Pick a movie to watch on Netflix or just scroll through the comedies for 45 minutes until you just get up and go the fuck home to watch your own damn movie on your own damn TV? Sometimes the best way to deal with a loved one who just can't make up their mind is to put them in a situation in which they don't have to decide anything at all. Take, for example, this advent calendar, which contains 24 very special, very luxe minis to spare them the enormous weight of having to choose which fragrance to wear in the days leading up to Christmas.

**Atelier Cologne** Discovery Advent Calendar, $59, available at Atelier Cologne

Behold, a nicely-curated collection of five Jo Malone fragrances — and you know who wears Jo Malone fragrances, right? Long before she became Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, *Suits* actress Meghan Markle told *Express* that she loves the British perfumery's Wild Bluebell and Wood Sage & Sea Salt Colognes, both of which you'll find shrunken down to travel size in this elegant box fit for the most Markle Sparkle-obsessed person on your list.

**Jo Malone London** Cologne Collection, $115, available at Nordstrom

She might be all long, messy bangs, no-makeup makeup, and frayed kick-flare jeans these days, but scroll back far enough in her Instagram feed and you'll find photographic evidence of the "old" her — the one who rocked bootcut leggings (with the fold-down waistband) with a serious fake tan, a lip piercing, and eyebrows tweezed to oblivion. The soft, airy notes of jasmine, cedarwood, and liquid musk in this sophisticated fragrance and body lotion duo will match her current brand: It's from a chic Brooklyn-based company, but comes with a holographic pouch that's a subtle nod to a similar clutch she bought at Urban Outfitters in 2011.

**Ellis Brooklyn** Myth Holographic Set, $115, available at Credo

Oh, the things that studying abroad in Paris can do to a person — like give them the audacity to spend the rest of their days pronouncing "croissant" *kwa-sahn* and starting sentences with, "When I lived in Paris..." The Francophile's fragrance collection is not complete without a little something from Diptyque, which has operated out of a small boutique at 34 Boulevard Saint-Germain in the 5th Arrondissement since 1961. This sleek set contains five vials of the brand's best-loved *eau de parfums*, all of which will bring them straight back to their semester in the City of Light — even if their current location is Paris, Texas.

**Diptyque** Eau De Parfum Discovery Set, $105, available at Barneys New York

Her wardrobe is vintage, her favorite films are by Godard, and every photo in her Instagram feed is uploaded with a black-and-white filter, like you're supposed to believe that moody subway selfie was actually shot in 1965. This set of 10 fragrances is like unlocking a time capsule full of memories that aren't your own: sitting in front of the fireplace at a ski resort in the Alps in 1971, taking a leisurely stroll through an English garden in 1986, stepping over seashells on the sandy shores of Corsica in 1972 — even when she's back to sitting in front of the computer under fluorescent office lighting in 2019.

**Maison Margiela** Replica Memory Box, $35, available at Sephora

The olfactory equivalent of giving someone a blanket scarf as a holiday gift — because who *doesn't* want a blanket scarf? — this universally-appealing fragrance set is foolproof, and fit for any human of any gender or taste. The three new fragrances, Serenity, Energy, and Intensity (respectively described as a woody amber, a citrus musk, and spicy woods), are meant to be mixed and matched, layered or worn alone... and besides, who couldn't use a little extra serenity or energy this time of year?

**Kenneth Cole** Kenneth Cole for Her Gift Set, $100, available at Kenneth Cole

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods — unless, of course, thy neighbor wears Santal 33, in which case it's perfectly all right to want to steal a spray from time to time. For the friend who mentions how *lame* it is that *everyone* wears the cult-favorite smoky sandalwood scent so often you've started to become suspicious of her motives, get her this set of two travel-sized spritzers. Finally, she'll be able to tell everyone who asks that she wears Santal 33... and then she can switch to the slightly more obscure AnOther 13 once she's over smelling like every other "cool girl" in the Western hemisphere.

**Le Labo** Santal 33 & AnOther 13 Set, $95, available at Nordstrom

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12 Football Terms To Know Before The College Football Playoff

December 18, 2018, 8:05 am

≫ Next: 3 Easy DIY Decorations To Get You In The Holiday Spirit This Weekend

≪ Previous: The 10 Best Fragrance Gifts For Difficult People

There are countless reasons to get excited about college football: from the camaraderie to the competition-fueled adrenaline rush to the nostalgia for your college days. But whether you're the kind of person who wore your school colors at every single game (and still shows up to your team's bar every time they play) or you're a football novice watching the playoff for the very first time, you could probably use a refresher on common terminology.

To help you sound like you know what you're talking about, we teamed up with ESPN in advance of the College Football Playoff, on December 29, for a college football cheat sheet. No matter what mascot you're rooting for, be it an elephant, a tiger, a leprechaun, or a horse-drawn wagon, the 12 terms ahead should help you get better acquainted with the sport before the season wraps up. Next time you're over at your friend's place for the game, you'll be able to impress everyone with your correct use of "blitzing" and "encroachment."

**College Football Playoff Rankings**
Before it gets to the playoff, rankings help determine which 25 teams are on top of the game during the regular season. These rankings are determined by a committee of coaches and athletic directors throughout the country. The first ranking is released at week 10, and they continue four more times every Tuesday until the final rankings in December.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Bowl Tie-Ins**
You might hear this term used later in the season concerning the bowl games, a selection of post-season games that come before the National Championship. All 40 bowl games in the NCAA are contractually obligated to offer bowl game bids, called tie-ins, to specific conferences. This way, only schools in those conferences (e.g.: Big Ten, SEC, or ACC) can get placed into the bowl games that they're assigned to. While there are 40 bowl games in total, the seven biggest games (the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Peach Bowl, and the College Football Playoff National Championship) make up the College Football Playoff.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**The New Year’s Six**
This is a nickname for the top six college bowl games that are connected to the College Football Playoff: the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Peach Bowl. The games get rotated every year, so the same ones aren't always the semifinals (this year, it's the Orange Bowl and the Cotton Bowl). Despite the name, these games are not *always* played on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day (sometimes it's a few days later).
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Two-Point Conversion**
This rare play is usually made when the score is close to a tie or if it's getting late in the game. Instead of kicking the ball for an extra point after a touchdown (rounding it up to seven points), the team will attempt to score two points by rushing or passing the ball from the two-yard line.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Blitz**
This tactic is used by the defensive team to charge the opposing team's quarterback and prevent a successful pass. The attempt is typically made by a linebacker, but in rare cases, it can also be made by cornerbacks or defensive backs.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Pick-Six**
While you might be familiar with the popular lottery game by the same name, this Pick-Six refers to an interception by the opposing team that is immediately used to score a touchdown. The term comes from the combination of "picked off" (an interception) and the number of points awarded for a touchdown before the conversion is added on.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Hail Mary**
When it gets down to the wire, the offensive team might get a little desperate to get in one last touchdown. This aptly named long pass is usually unsuccessful, but the high risk could come with a high reward if it works.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Option**
While some plays rely heavily on passing, this type of play tends to be run-based. The play is determined after reading the defensive line arrangement, with multiple running paths the quarterback can choose from. It's a popular offensive play with college football teams, since it's fairly easy and usually successful.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Encroachment**
This common type of foul happens when a player on defense enters the neutral zone or has a direct path to the quarterback before the snap of the ball, incurring a five-yard penalty.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Nickel Back**
No, we're not talking about the Canadian rock band of the same name — this Nickel Back is a defensive formation that happens when the offense is expected to pass. A fifth player gets brought onto the field in place of a linebacker.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Spread Offense**
This newer and simplified play (which is much more popular with college football than with professional football) happens when the offense spreads out on the field, opening large running holes and forcing the defense to cover the full field.
Designed by Richard Chance.

**Redshirt**
This term is used to refer to a player who isn't playing for the season — commonly due to injury or age. Their inability to play, however, doesn't affect their athletic eligibility for the rest of their time in college, and during their time as a redshirt, they can still attend classes, practice with the team, and occasionally suit-up.
Designed by Richard Chance.

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3 Easy DIY Decorations To Get You In The Holiday Spirit This Weekend

December 18, 2018, 8:10 am

≫ Next: 19 Killer Amazon Prime Beauty Deals To Shop This Week

≪ Previous: 12 Football Terms To Know Before The College Football Playoff

It's the middle of December, but blogger Sam Ushiro is inflating a swimming pool floating tube. Why? To get ready for a holiday party, of course.

When it comes to holiday decor, many might think mistletoe and string lights are the way to go. But if you have talent like Ushiro on your side, whose DIY blog Aww.sam is filled to the brim with pink pastel DIYs, you can expect some unconventional ideas.

In our 180 VR video above, Ushiro shows us how to make three crazy easy DIYs to decorate your home for a holiday party. With items you can snag at any craft store, Ushiro creates giant, oversized ornaments and trendy plant balloons to make any space party ready. And that floating tube? That ends up being the pièce de résistance. Watch above to get crafty.

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19 Killer Amazon Prime Beauty Deals To Shop This Week

December 18, 2018, 8:15 am

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It's easy to feel overwhelmed shopping on Amazon. Not that we don't do it all the time (because free two-day shipping is the bomb), but you can't help but let out a heavy groan when you realize you're almost out of an essential — say, shampoo — and a simple Prime search pulls up 351 pages of what seems like every bottle ever made.

Fret not, because we're here to help. After skimming through thousands of handmade soaps and razor-refill boxes, we compiled the best beauty deals available on Amazon right now. From holiday gift ideas, like a chic set of scented hand lotions, to can't beat deals, like $50 off a high-end hairdryer, we've got every winter beauty essential to add to your next Prime order.

Scroll through all the goods ahead, and add them straight to your cart, zero filtering required.

If you're loyal to your fancy French cleansing water and the pink-capped bottle in your bathroom is running dry, pick up a replacement while you can get $3 off the price tag.

**Bioderma** Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, $11.9, available at Amazon

Amazon reviewers have likened this mascara formula to Too Faced's Better Than Sex mascara — so we highly recommend shopping it right now while it's only $12 (that's half the price of a Too Faced tube).

**Laura Geller** Laura Geller New York Lashboss Mascara, $11.76, available at Amazon

If you're in the market for a firming neck cream — tech neck, anyone? — you can grab a lifting cream from StriVectin for $30 off its normal retail price.

**StriVectin** StriVectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream, $66, available at Amazon

If there was ever a time to invest in a good blow dryer, it's right now, while you can nab the high-end T3 pro dryer for $50 off retail.

T3 Cura Hair Dryer Digital Ionic Professional Blow Dryer , $152.15, available at Amazon Fashion

If you suffer from scalp dryness or just have blonde highlights that are fading fast, this gentle, anti-yellow shampoo will become your new go-to. It's formulated with soothing vitamins — and without harsh silicones and parabens — that'll offer instant relief while protecting your color.

**Klorane** Anti -Yellowing Shampoo with Centaury for Blonde, $12.5, available at Amazon

If you're looking to upgrade your body lotion to something a little fancier than whatever you grabbed at Target last month, now's the time to treat yourself to Crabtree & Evelyn's rich lavender formula because it's on sale.

**Crabtree & Evelyn** Body Lotion, Verbena and Lavender de Provence, $17.6, available at Amazon

If you've been shopping around for a hair tool that will give you soft beach waves, this snazzy styler is a great option. The spin feature twirls your hair into loose curls, which means no contorting your fingers around a hot barrel.

**Chi** Air Spin N Curl 1 Inch Ceramic Rotating Curler, $99.99, available at Amazon

If you've been debating upgrading to a fancy electric toothbrush — to show off a pearly white smile at all your upcoming holiday parties — let this 30% off sale be the push you need to treat yourself.

**Philips Sonicare** plaque control rechargeable electric toothbrush, $45, available at Amazon

A winner of this year's Refinery29 Beauty Innovator Awards, this idiot-proof bi-directional razor is just $5 and change when you grab it on Amazon right now. That's 70% below its retail price.

**Schick** Schick Intuition f.a.b. Razor, $5.15, available at Amazon

You can't go wrong picking up a discounted bottle of this happy pink nail polish for when your holiday manicure inevitably chips.

**Essie** essie nail polish, cascade cool, pink nail polish, $7.69, available at Amazon

If you love scented lotions, you'll want to grab The Body Shop's best-selling strawberry body butter two-pack — including a small and jumbo size — for just $6 this week.

**The Body Shop** The Body Shop Strawberry Festive Bauble Gift Set, $5.17, available at Amazon

If you're always running out of moisturizer and you're partial to a refreshing gel-cream texture that melts into your skin (as opposed to anything white and heavy), this $13 two-pack was made for you.

**Garnier** Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Face Moisturizer, $11.98, available at Amazon

When you do the math, this luxe 12-pack of Parisian hand cream is an awesome deal. Each chic aluminum tube tallies up to around $4, *and* it made Oprah's annual gift list.

**La Chatelaine** Deluxe 12 Hand Cream Gift Set, $54.4, available at Amazon

Throw away all those scrubs that leave grimy coffee-grounds residue along the rim of your bathtub, and replace them with this little glass jar packed with pink Himalayan sea salt. It sloughs away dead skin, smells like aromatherapy and sugared almonds, and requires zero clean-up, to boot.

**Majestic Pure** Himalayan Salt Body Scrub with Lychee Essential Oil, $13.98, available at Amazon

Whether you're going for a dramatic cat-eye or a sexy, smudged kitten flick, this felt-tip liquid liner *delivers*, which is why it's the #1 new release in Amazon's eyeliner product category.

**Maybelline** Eyestudio Master Precise All Day Liquid Eyeliner Makeup, $6.94, available at Amazon

Typically, this luxe night cream (or night *balm*, rather) retails for $19.99 — and that's honestly a steal, as it's packed with nourishing Manuka honey, which leaves skin softer, firmer, and plumper over time. Buy it on Prime and the price drops to just $15.

**L'Oreal Paris** Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Night Balm Moisturizer , $14.97, available at Amazon

Curious about face mask sticks? This charcoal one is just as effective as a regular potted clay mask, *minus* the crusty mess that comes with application.

**Olay** Clay Charcoal Facial Mask Stick, $9.94, available at Amazon

Lash-boosting serums can be pricey — we're talking around $50 or so — and we're willing to splurge for naturally long, fluttery lashes. But now you can reap the benefits of stronger, shinier, healthier eyelashes for the same price as a tube of Great Lash mascara from CVS.

**Maybelline** Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum, $9.48, available at Amazon

More than 600 Amazon shoppers have reviewed the Color Wow Dream Coat — a color-protecting spray that cuts the frizz out of dry, damaged hair — and most everyone gives it five bright-yellow stars.

**Color Wow** Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, $28, available at Amazon

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The Last-Minute Beauty Gifts Your Friends Will Love, According To Their Star Signs

December 18, 2018, 8:25 am

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Gift giving starts with a generous thought — a little something for the friend who graciously volunteered to host this year's White Elephant swap, or a housewarming-holiday gift for your long-distance college friend — but it can quickly spiral into a huge headache when you realize you have no idea what to get. When poinsettias seem a little ho-hum and candy-striped dish towels feel too tacky, a glossy gift set packed with beauty goodies is an easy way to bring a smile to her face.

If you're still caught going back and forth over a three-pack of Kiehl's face masks or a trendy jade roller, let the stars split the tie. Ahead, we asked astrologer and Love by Luna founder Katie Huang to break down the sweetest under-$50 beauty gifts to give a friend — all based on her zodiac sign. Whether you have an impulsive Aries or a fun-loving Capricorn on your hands, scroll to find the present she's destined to love.

**Aries**
For your fire-sign friend who's always blazing forward and has little to no time to shop for skin care, this First Aid Beauty essentials kit makes a great gift, Huang says. With five parts — a gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, exfoliating peel pads, the Ultra Repair Cream for super parched skin, and a lip balm — it's a streamlined set for your girl on the go, and it made our editors' wishlist, too.

**First Aid Beauty** FAB Holiday Cheer Kit, $48, available at Ulta Beauty

**Taurus**
Taurus is known for her love of luxury, meaning she's probably big into weekend masking sessions. "This high-end face mask sampler is the perfect pick for someone who likes pampering herself, painting her toenails, and lounging in sweats on a lazy Sunday," Huang says.

**Kiehl's** Merry Masking, $39, available at Kiehl's

**Gemini**
Geminis are big into doubles — it's the sign of the twins, after all — so Huang recommends gifting her a beauty two-pack. If you've got a makeup lover on your hands, she'll *love* this Charlotte Tilbury mini liquid lipstick duo, which comes with a rose shade and a deep-berry color.

**Charlotte Tilbury** Mini Hollywood Liquid Lipstick Charms, $22, available at Charlotte Tilbury

**Cancer**
For your friend who likes the finer things (like velour tracksuits) *and* appreciates a '90s throwback trend resurfacing (like scrunchies), this plush velvet bow will be a huge hit. "This scrunchie has Cancer written all over it," says Huang. "It will add the perfect polished touch to her holiday party outfit."

**Chloe + Isabel** Velvet Bow Scrunchie, $30, available at Chloe + Isabel

**Leo**
It's likely that the Leo in your life has been complaining about her mane lately, because it takes so much to get hair soft and shiny this time of year when the sandpaper-y office air is making everyone's ends dry and static-prone. Huang recommends gifting this thoughtful three-piece set — a shampoo, conditioner, and styling primer — that'll bounce her hair back to glossy before New Year's Eve.

**Bumble and bumble** Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Happy Hairdays, $33, available at Birchbox

**Virgo**
Your friend Virgo has a fierce work ethic. This year, Huang recommends gifting her this set — the luxe Fresh Soy Face Cleanser plus a best-selling Sugar Lip Treatment — to remind her to spend time on her self-care.

**Fresh** Frequent Flyer, $19.5, available at Sephora

**Libra**
This de-puffing jade face roller is a no-brainer for a Libra looking to make her skin-care regimen more ritualistic in the new year. "Ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, Libra is in the know when it comes to natural beauty trends," says Huang. "She'll definitely appreciate this gift that's both calming and effective for sculpting her cheekbones."

**Mount Lai** De-Puffing Jade Facial Roller, $34, available at Sephora

**Scorpio**
Scorpio loves a good party and is easily bored by replaying the same night-out look. This year, Huang recommends gifting her this eyeliner gift set, which is filled with a rainbow of creamy glitter pencils, plus a black liquid pen, to spice up her Friday-night glam.

**Smashbox** Smashbox Cosmetics Holidaze Always On Eyeliner Set, $39, available at Birchbox

**Sagittarius**
Your buddy Sagittarius loves both variety and convenience, which makes this mini Kevyn Aucoin lip gloss set a great gift. "For a freedom-loving sign that likes options, this five-piece box of glosses surely offers that," says Huang.

**Kevyn Aucoin** NUDEPOP The Molten Lip Color Mini Collection, $32, available at Sephora

**Capricorn**
If anyone can appreciate a makeup kit with some staying power, it's a work-hard-play-harder Capricorn. Huang recommends this Laura Mercier set that can fit in her clutch. It comes with two creamy, crease-resistant shadow sticks and a teeny tube of mascara.

**Laura Mercier** Eye Lights Three-Piece Deluxe Mini Eye Collection Set, $35, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

**Aquarius**
You really can't go wrong with gifting the crème de la crème of dewy dumpling highlighters ( *the* Living Luminizer), but an unconventional Aquarius will be especially appreciative of the vibe. Huang loves this pearlescent highlighting quad for her because it plays into her desire to stand out from the crowd, in a way that's not trying too hard.

**RMS Beauty** Luminizer X Quad, $48, available at DermStore

**Pisces**
Every Pisces appreciates a focused bedtime routine, the kind that signals the brain that it's time to wind down. Huang recommends you cater to her love of sleep with a gift set filled with de-puffing eye gels and a silk eye mask. The combination will help her relax and drown out all the distractions.

**BeautyBio** Bright Eyes Set, $25, available at Nordstrom

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14 Amazing Holiday Steals From Sephora — All Under $10

December 18, 2018, 8:30 am

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We're in the home stretch of holidays season, which means if you didn't already pick out gifts... well, it's now or never. But even though you've been putting off shopping doesn't mean that your gift has to suck, or require you to splurge.

Luckily for you (and the beauty hoarder on your list), there’s an awesome selection of dope gifts lining the shelves at Sephora right now. And this season, you can wrap up everything from shimmery eye mask s to cult palettes — all for under $10.

Ahead, we rounded up the sweetest gifts to shop during your last-minute Sephora trip. Some of these deals are so good, it might be hard to resist the urge to buy stuff for yourself, too. (Don't worry, we won't judge.)

Hydration is a gift we can all use — all the time. This two-piece kit comes with a mini cleanser and face cream, both formulated with coconut water to keep your face moisturized through every holiday bender.

**First Aid Beauty** Clean Canyon, $10, available at Sephora

This stocking stuffer comes with a travel-sized primer and hairspray that'll create soft, flexible styles that last through multiple parties.

**Living Proof** Style Lab Kit, $10, available at Sephora

Is it even the holidays if you don't wear glitter? Hook your friend up with this kit, which comes with three loose shimmer pigments and a lightweight adhesive that works for disco eyes, glitter lips, and everything in between.

**Sephora Collection** Give Me Some Glitter Set, $10, available at Sephora

What's the best way to tell your sister she needs to do a better job of blending her foundation? This adorable ornament gets the message across, without a dinner-table blowout.

**Sephora Collection** Twinkle Time Sponge, $10, available at Sephora

This travel-sized eyeshadow palette comes with eight shimmer and matte shades for every holiday (and non-holiday) look. Go ahead and buy two — one for you, and one for you six months from now.

**Sephora Collection** Enchanted Sky Eyeshadow Palette, $10, available at Sephora

For the party animal that needs to chill, this glittery face mask provides the ideal solution. It soothes and depuffs tired eyes, while also serving as a masquerade costume in a pinch.

**Sephora Collection** Glitter & Chill Cooling Mask, $8, available at Sephora

Remember, a bath bomb isn't just a gift — it's an escape. Whether you need to get away from your Trump-supporting uncle, your demanding in-laws, or your growing to-do list, this warm tropical scent will have you floating miles away from *allll* the family drama.

**Sol de Janeiro** Bum Bum Bath Bomba Ornament, $10, available at Sephora

Impress your houseguests with this fancy 3-in-1 soap, which smells nothing like gingerbread cookies and pumpkin spice (in the best way).

**Philosophy** Amazing Grace Ballet Rose Shower Gel, $10, available at Sephora

Slip off your platforms and slip into these star-studded booties, which have almond oil to hydrate dry, cracked heels.

**Sephora Collection** Foot Mask - Almond, $5, available at Sephora

Be prepared to fend off all the "where do you get your eyebrows done?" questions once you use this before your family function.

**Benefit Cosmetics** Precisely, My Brow Pencil Mini Ornament, $9.5, available at Sephora

When you're running a little late after the office holiday party, let this micellar water do the heavy lifting. It'll remove all traces of stubborn glitter and (spiked) eggnog sipping.

**It Cosmetics** 3-in-1 Micellar Cleanser Mini Confetti Popper, $8, available at Sephora

When you need to hit reset on dull, tired skin, this trio will come in handy, with a miniature cleanser, mask, and moisturizer that'll make you glisten like an ornament.

**Origins** Glow On, $10, available at Sephora

Gone are the days of lugging your entire makeup bag around just to touch up on the go — toss these minis in your purse and go on your way.

**Tarte** Beach, Sleep, Repeat Mini Set, $10, available at Sephora

If you're planning on whipping out an extra-special fragrance before a party, make sure it's this. The gardenia-scented rollerball will be sure to get you *lots* of compliments.

**Tocca** Florence Favorites, $10, available at Sephora

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These Beauty Brands Donate To Women's Organizations All Year Round

December 18, 2018, 8:45 am

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There are a few days every year that remind beauty brands to step up to do some good for women around the world. It tends to happen ahead of International Women's Day in March, or Women’s Equality Day, which was August 26 this year. You'll often see brands run promotions like 100% of proceeds from the sale of a single lipstick going to Planned Parenthood for just 24 hours.

Now that's all well and good, of course, because philanthropy is always a good, generous thing for a company to do. But there are also many brands out there that make supporting various organizations and non-profits benefitting women more than an annual task. In fact, many make it an essential part of its business model, and that, regardless of the day, is worth celebrating. Ahead, 15 companies that do just that...