Which holiday shopper are you:
Do you like to go to one place and bang out all your holiday shopping or do you enjoy shopping as you go and taking your time?
I’ll admit I can be BOTH of these types of holiday shoppers. Sometimes I enjoy looking through different store windows in person, finding new designers online or looking through recommendations. But other times (and this usually happens at least once before the holiday) I like to knock it all out in one clean sweep! For that to happen though, you have to go to a trustworthy department store that has all the brands you admire AND have some nice surprises in case you need some inspiration. Cue Macy’s Herald Square right outside of Penn Station in NYC. This past month, they invited me to their holiday preview and I am SO excited to finally share with you all the great ideas I got from their event that will help you navigate this season of giving!
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Macy’s and Bustle. The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Macy’s or Bustle.
This specific Macy’s location is so special because it’s where the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is held, making it one of the most festive places to be in NYC around this time. When I think of the first department store I ever fell in love with, Macy’s always comes to mind. It was one of the only department stores near where I lived on Long Island. I remember discovering some of my first exciting moments in fashion there. I’m pretty sure I even picked out my first middle school dance dress and have vivid memories of picking out gifts for friends, family and even getting ready for college and picking out some dorm necessities there.
Getting a little nostalgic here but I had to give you the background of why Macy’s will always have a special place in my heart, especially during the holidays. Especially after this holiday preview that I was able to attend. Now— it’s time to share some of my recommendations for the loved ones on your list, recommendations for getting your home ready for entertaining, and maybe even some ideas for gifts for YOU.
What To Shop [for holiday parties]
This is something I haven’t thought about in the past, mainly because I haven’t had the chance to throw an official holiday party at our apartment. We might need to move into a slightly bigger place before that happens because this idea needs at least a bigger bar cart! While I was at the event, they had a “custom cocktail bar” that made me think of a great activity to have at my future holiday party in my bigger NYC apartment. You can choose different spirits, mixers, have different glassware, garnishes, etc. so people can get crafty with their drinks. That’s my kind of DIY!
Macy’s also has tons of adorable decor for your party or even just for you to enjoy at home. Get festive with it with some of favorite choices below.
What To Shop [for your family or friends]
Have someone that is super into glam on your list? I spent some time at the MAC Counter back in the day, so during the event I was definitely reminiscing over all the beautiful lip colors that they have. Especially those beautiful winter reds that are so fun for any holiday party or even a stocking stuffer.
I even got to test out that new Honey NAKED palette by Urban Decay. It’s perfection. Tons of neutrals which even though I’m partial to neutral colors in general, it’s a safe gift to get anyone because they can find something that suits them. Might be my new favorite palette by Urban Decay!
Not into glam? I got you. Beanies, gloves, hats, scarves, candles—honestly anything cozy and warm! People often forget to buy these for themselves and it’s something they can use as soon as they get it. Especially in NYC where it’s about 40 degrees at the moment.
See some of my personal favorites below.
What To Shop [for somebody special]
Perfume is always a great way to say “I care about you so much that I want you to smell good.” Just kidding, but really though, it’s a nice gesture—especially when you pick it out yourself (or maybe the lovely people at Macy’s do it for you) IMO.
And speaking of other cozy things, how about taking it up a notch with a Calvin Klein puffer? That’s something stylish, warm, and also shows you put it a little extra thought into it.
Something I have been neglecting in the accessories department is a watch. When I saw the watch wall, my eye was definitely drawn to SKAGEN. It’s super minimalistic style definitely drew me in and I feel like any partner would appreciate it.
Shop my picks below.
For real, I want to know what kind of shopper you are! Don’t forget to leave a comment on what suggestion you liked the best.
xox Soho Mini
