Written by Amy Scalia
Holidays always have a way of filling our hearts with peace, comfort and joy — all the things we need an extra dose of this year. And when it comes down to it, we really don’t need much more than that. So, for this UpWest holiday gift guide, we hand-selected items specifically designed to bring peace, comfort and joy to you, your loved ones, and your socially distanced circles.
Peace
This year has been a lot to handle for many. In a sea of agitating thoughts, frustrations or worries about the future, it’s important to have ways that help us change course and wade back to a more peaceful, happy place.
Whether it’s a morning yoga practice or journaling to Calm the Chaos, lighting candles or diffusing oils, a daily tea ritual or recharging with stones or crystals, a restorative night of deep sleep or taking a #SelfcareSunday bath soak, think of ways that create a moment of pause to release stress and welcome more peace. Don’t underestimate how welcomed these will be this year. They’re the gifts that keeps on giving.
Comfort
These last few months of 2020 will be a bumpy ride, so we’ll definitely need some extra softness wherever we can find it. From slipping into Super Soft Sherpa, pulling on some cozy legwarmers, or curling up under a warm weighted blanket on a cold winter’s night, there are lots of simple ways to take comfort to the next level.
Headed out? The Sherpa Puffer lets you bring the comforts of home with you. “It fits like a bomber jacket, but feels like a blanket,” says Lindy Deal, UpWest’s Curator of Comfort. “This cozy take on a classic bomber jacket also has slip-on backpack straps for when you’re on-the-go.”
Sweaters are like wrapping your loved one in a cozy, wearable hug. “From festive patterns to sustainable yarns, there’s a perfect sweater for you and pretty much everyone on your list,” says Deal. The Fairisle Mock Neck, Super Soft Turtleneck, Winter Plaid Mock Neck, and High-Low Turtleneck for her. A Cozy Crewneck, Contrast Crewneck, Warm Mock Neck, Bundle-Up Turtleneck for him.
Giving the gift of comfort can also look like a CBD Relief Roller to melt away aches and pains, a Spa Night Set to help relax and restore, or a Cozy Headband to add a stylish touch of warmth.
Joy
The joy of matching PJs, extra time relaxing with a loved one, and walks through a winter wonderland. Capture those moments with the Cabin Check PJ Top, Cabin Check PJ Short, Cabin Check PJ Jogger — paired with a Cozy Up Waffle Henley, Cozy Legwarmers or Fireside Moccasin — you can give a set to loved ones and a pair to yourself.
Up the comfort level on that time spent relaxing with come cozy pillows and throws, curled up with a book about something that sparks joy like home decor, travel, wellness or food.
Enjoying the outdoors is even more joyful when you’re prepared for anything. Be rain-ready with a Packable Anorack or Packable Swing Parka. Or, opt for the Quilted Parka for extra warmth. “It’s made with a weather-resistant outer shell, a full zipper and snaps to keep out the cold winter wind, and a messenger strap that keeps your hands free,” Deal explains.
Stay Handy Gloves, Cozy Up Scarf, or the Snow Day Bobble Beanie are also great gift ideas for the adventurer on your list. For the homebody, a Super-Soft Sock or Fireside Slippers, a Paddywax Candle, or a festive Reed Diffuser with Peppermint Oil are thoughtful options. For a friend who loves to entertain, an Ultimate Bar Book, a Stainless Steel Straw Set, Two-Sided Puzzle, or Dinner Party Candle will bring extra joy to their next gathering (whenever we can do those again).
You can also find peace, comfort and joy knowing those aren’t just seasonal feelings at UpWest. “It’s our purpose,” says Deal. “It’s why we make clothes with super-soft sherpa and why half of our new arrivals are sustainable. And it’s why we give 1% of gross sales to charities that offer comfort to those in need.” So, no matter how different the holidays look for you this year, from our UpWest family to yours, here’s to more peace, comfort and joy this season and beyond.