Tag Archives: christmas

The ‘So Bad They’re Good’ Holiday Films On Netflix

Baby, it’s cold outside. (Actually, it’s downright freezing.) As the festive season draws near, so do the dark, chilly evenings. Luckily, that exact combination gives us all an excuse to slip into the coziest pajamas, grab a warm duvet, and settle in for an epic Netflix binge. What’s more, the streaming site has a handful of holiday gifts that you don’t want to miss. Let’s take a look at the ‘so bad they’re actually good’ holiday films on Netflix you have to watch this year.

#1 – The Princess Switch 

Starring ‘High School Musical’ actor, Vanessa Hudgens, ‘The Princess Switch’ is a must-watch for Netflix and rom-com fans. In the vein of the Parent Trap and other life-swapping flicks, the movie sees two miraculously identical characters switch places and walk a mile in one another’s shoes. 

Hudgens plays both an adorable American baker and a British Princess in this wholesome and kooky comedy. The pair soon hatch a plan to swap lives for a couple of days to see how the other half live. You don’t need a crystal ball to predict what happens next, but the movie feels fresh enough to carry the time-old story.

 

#2 – Christmas Inheritance

Before bratty daddy’s girl, Ellen, can inherit the family business, her father sets her a seemingly simple task. She has to deliver a Christmas card to his former partner in the aptly named town, Snow Falls. When a snowstorm hits the region, she’s stranded with no money and no friends to turn to. For the first time in her life, Ellen has to start from scratch and find her way in the world without the help of her family. 

 

#3 – The Christmas Prince 

If you’re looking for a super soppy rom-com that may make you shed a tear, you’ve found it. The Christmas Prince is an absolute cheese-fest of a film, but don’t let that put you off. Despite the slightly predictable (okay, very predictable!) plot, there’s a lot of warmth here and you might find yourself watching the movie again and again. 

 

 #4 – The Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding 

The 2017 movie ‘The Christmas Prince’ was such a hit for the folks at Netflix that they decided to recreate the magic again this year. Yes, the sequel that we did not ask for ‘The Royal Wedding’ is already out on the streaming site. However, if you’re dying to get more of this cute couple in your life, it’s worth a watch.

 

#5 – The Christmas Chronicles 

If it’s your dream to see Kurt Russell playing Santa Claus (and it should be!), The Christmas Chronicles is the Netflix movie for you. While the flick starts with a heart-wrenching twist, which I won’t ruin for you, it soon picks up to a cheerier note. The film starts by introducing us to the Pierce family; Claire, Teddy, and Kate. Soon enough, the man in the red hat arrives and brings a whole load of the festive spirit with him. The kids find themselves on a magical sleigh ride across the US that turns out to be an adventure they’ll never forget.

10 Christmas Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Holiday Sweet Tooth

‘Tis the season to pig out, fa la la la la la la la la! Those are the lyrics, right?… I know that the best part of the holidays is supposed to be the joy of giving or whatever, but if you ask me — which I know you didn’t, but I’m going to tell you anyway — the best part is parking your rump at the dessert table and helping yourself to another slice of pie. If you like to indulge as much as I do, and you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, here are 10 Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to spread the holiday cheer.

10 Christmas Dessert Recipes Perfect for the Holiday Season

1. Red Velvet Cake Balls

 

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Red Velvet Cake Balls! Such a fun and festive holiday treat. 🎅🏻🎄

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Want something that’s easy to prepare but insanely delicious? Try these red velvet cake balls from Bakerella. You only need a handful of ingredients: red velvet cake mix, cream cheese frosting, and chocolate to melt and dip them in. Make huge batches, put them in festive tins, and hand them out to all your friends. Or, you know, eat them all yourself.

2. Hot Cocoa Cheesecake

If you love nothing more than a steaming cup of hot cocoa, this hot cocoa cheesecake from My Baking Addiction is right up your alley. You’ll savor every bite, from the Oreo cookie crust to the mini marshmallows added on top.

3. Reindeer Chow

 

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❤️💚 Reindeer Chow is the ultimate holiday snack mix – Chex cereal, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and red & green M&Ms, all coated in white chocolate. This is an easy recipe that makes a TON, so it’s perfect for taking to all of your holiday events – it’s always a HUGE hit! 🎅⠀ .⠀ #browneyedbaker #f52grams #buzzfeast #yahoofood #eeeeeats #feedfeed @thefeedfeed #bhgfood #marthafood #thekitchn #bareaders #huffposttaste #todayfood #foodblogfeed #buzzfeedfood #buzzfeedtasty #recipe #instayum #eatingfortheinsta #bonappetit #onthetable #foodblogeats #mywilliamssonoma #tastingtable #foodgawker #realsimple #sotasty #f52oven #recipevideo #snacks #christmasiscoming

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Browneyed Baker’s Reindeer Chow is the answer to all of life’s problems. This is yet another simple recipe that is outrageously taste bud-tingling. Mix together Chex, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and M&Ms, and coat it all in white chocolate, and you’ve got a holiday dessert fit for royalty. Christmas dessert recipes don’t have to be complicated to be indulgent.

4. Christmas Chestnut Yule Log Cake

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to really go above and beyond with your Christmas dessert recipes, try the Christmas Chestnut Yule log by Hummingbird High. It’s the perfect table centerpiece, and just wait until you sink your teeth into it. I’d also like to add that it photographs well for Instagram. Priorities!

5. Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

 

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These look a bit like ugly Christmas sweaters, no? That was the intent with these✨Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars✨ But also: does Santa deserve cookies, or could he get by with bars? Could we smoosh sugar cookie dough into a pan, and slice it into cookie shapes? I’m not mad at Santa or anything, I’m just a *little* exhausted doing his job, you know what I mean? 🎅🏽 Recipe link in profile; also, if you make no other recipe from my site this year, make these sugar cookie bars with cream cheese frosting in an 8×8” pan, k? K. #feedfeed #imsomartha #foodandwine #mywilliamssonoma #fwx #f52grams #abmfoodie #buzzfeast #kitchn #thekitchn #bareaders #beautifulcuisines #gloobyfood #tastingtable #heresmyfood #buzzfeedtasty #christmascookies #christmasbaking #sugarcookies #mms

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These sugar cookie bars from Dessert for Two will give you life. The cream cheese frosting will make you weep. They’re also the perfect addition to your cookie decorating party.

6. Grinch Brownies

The peppermint extract and mint Oreo cookies really give these Grinch brownies from Cookies and Cups a nice kick. Fair warning: this will disappear from the dessert table fast.

7. Gingerbread Cookies

 

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GINGER CUTIES!!!!! 🎄 My favorite gingerbread cookie recipe is up on the blog. Clean edges, tons of spice flavor, easy to decorate with a simple glaze icing. Link in bio @sallysbakeblog PS: I have something as big as a house coming on Monday. Any guesses?! 😉😁😜 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #gingerbreadmen #gingerbread #gingerbreadcookies #homemadegingerbread #cutoutcookies #cookiedecorating #christmasclassic #cookies #cookiegram #thekitchn #tistheseason #holidaybaking #christmascookies #christmasbaking #homemade #fromscratch #bakedwithlove #thebakefeed #linkinbio #sallysbakingaddiction #sallyscookiepalooza ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/best-gingerbread-cookies/

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You can never go wrong with traditional gingerbread cookies. Sally’s Baking Addiction has the ultimate recipe. Molasses and spices give them their iconic flavor, and the end result is irresistibly adorable.

8. Peppermint Chocolate Donuts

 

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I love gluten, but if it doesn’t agree with you so much, you’ll love these gluten-free, grain-free peppermint chocolate donuts from Broma Bakery. They’re topped with dark chocolate ganache and crushed peppermint candies, and the holidays have never tasted this good.

9. Christmas Velvet Layer Cake

 

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Layers of red velvet and green velvet cake spread with a dreamy peppermint whipped cream frosting. Get the recipe PLUS special tips for not overestimating your cake-layering abilities and making a cake that is too tall and topples over. If you caught my stories yesterday, YOU KNOW 😉😅. Tap the link in my bio!⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ https://www.somethingswanky.com/christmas-velvet-layer-cake-with-peppermint-whipped-cream-frosting/ #cakestagram #instafood #santaclaus #foodie #christmascheer #christmaslights #love #christmasdessert #cakedesign #cooking #bakery #xmascake #foodstagram #gingerbread #buttercream #fruitcake #christmaslove #cakeart #tasty #foodphotography #santa #foodblogger #presents #christmaspreparations #winter #adventcalendar #holidaybaking #tallcakes

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Layers of red velvet and green velvet cake are spread with a dreamy peppermint whipped cream frosting. How many layers is too many? Trick question! There’s no such thing as too many. You can find the recipe over at Something Swanky.

10. Almond Shortbread

It’s fruity. It’s sweet. So soft and smooth. This almond shortbread with raspberry white chocolate frosting from Dessert First is the perfect holiday baking project.

The Best Places in the US to See Holiday Lights

The nostalgic holiday season is in full swing, welcoming chunky scarves, peppermint mochas, gift-giving anxieties, and an endless loop of agonizingly cheerful Christmas songs on every radio station. Whether your tree has been up since November, or you’re already looking forward to spring weather, a silver lining of the season for anyone should be the dazzling light displays in cities throughout the country. You don’t have to celebrate Christmas to enjoy these charming exhibits, a labor of love extended to visitors who sometimes travel hundreds of miles to revel in their glow. Nearly every major U.S. city has its own cultural take on holiday decorations, from New Orleans’ Cajun-inspired decor to Alaska’s North Pole celebration. If you’re looking for a little something extra to put you in the spirit this year, consider checking out these famously well-received light shows.

ZooLights

Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington, D.C.


There’s no better place to celebrate the holiday season than in our nation’s bustling capital. This free event, located in the heart of the National Zoo, features more than 500,000 colorful and environmentally friendly LED lights. The long-running demonstration takes place through the new year and includes live music, warm winter food, and holiday shopping opportunities. Check out the zoo’s European artisan market in mid-December, offering handmade clothing, jewelry, home accessories, and art.

Blossoms of Light

Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver, Colorado

Happy #Hanukkah. 📸: @the_starving_vegan

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This affordable annual event is a longtime tradition in Denver, attracting families from all over the country. Featuring an interactive light display built with sound-reactive, animated LED lights that are sure to warm the psyche, organizers of the Blossom of Lights festival have something for all ages, including holiday foods, drinks, and souvenirs. Roughly an hour from Denver are an array of world-famous ski-resorts, making northern Colorado your premier holiday destination this, and every, year.

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Considered the largest Christmas store in Michigan since 1945, this warehouse-style Christmas mecca is your one-stop-shop for everything holiday related. Featuring ornaments for all professionals, animal-lovers, and quirky relatives, it’s easy to lose an entire day in Bronner’s. After you’re done shopping, you’re treated to a drive-thru display of thousands of lights and decorations. The larger city of Frankenmuth is a classic Bavarian vacation destination, starring traditional lodging and German architecture. Don’t leave before grabbing a slice of the city’s aperitive chocolate fudge.

Glittering Lights

Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Nevada

On display for more than 20 years, Las Vegas’ Glittering Lights is Nevada’s largest drive-thru light show, offering millions of brilliant lights packed into a two-and-a-half-mile course. Ranked one of the country’s best holiday spectacle by a number of travel and news organizations, Glittering Lights is just another reason to cheat the winter chill in Las Vegas this season.

Enchanted: Forest of Lights

Los Angeles, California

This mile-long walking tour includes interactive light displays you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in southern California, or beyond. Located in the heart of the beloved Descanso Gardens, an internationally-renowned collection of rare and seasonal horticulture, this festival is a holiday staple for both tourists and locals.

Celebration in the Oaks

New Orleans, Louisiana

The New Orleans’ City Park is celebrating its 31st year hosting the Celebration in the Oaks, a cultural anomaly among Christmas light shows. Each of the park’s lush oaks are blanketed in hundreds of thousands of impressive light displays, covering more than 25 acres of the park, including its botanical garden and amusement park. Many of the displays feature a Cajun twist, with bayou-inspired Night Before Christmas renditions and crocodile arrangements.

5 Snowy Destinations for a Romantic Retreat

Anything can happen on a snow day — especially falling in love all over again. Just think Bob and Betty from White Christmas, Lucy and Jack from While You Were Sleeping, and Jamie and Aurelia from Love Actually. After a long day of skiing, snowball fights, and snowshoeing, you’ll want to cozy up with your significant other; the toasty fireplace, piping-hot cocoa, and leather couch are optional. It’s the company that you keep and, of course, the snow-strewn setting that’s magical, so we’ve rounded up five of our favorite winter wonderlands so you can create a snowy romance of your own.

 

Wilmington, New York

Wilmington, New York
Opening on July 1, 1949, Santa’s Workshop is one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the US | Photo: Santa’s Workshop

Located northeast of Lake Placid, more than half of Wilmington is Forest Preserve, where you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or ride snowmobiles. Popular sites include the AuSable River, internationally famous for trout fishing, and Whiteface Mountain, the site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics’ alpine skiing events. You can hike 5.2 miles to Whiteface Mountain’s summit or drive up the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway, which starts in downtown. Wilmington is also home to Santa’s Workshop, a WWII-era, Christmas-themed amusement park with live reindeer, costumed characters—local high schoolers dress as Frosty the Snowman, Little Red Riding Hood, Alice in Wonderland, and lesser-knowns such as Rowdy the Reindeer and Chris Moose—constant caroling, nativity pageants, and more.

Stay at the Adirondack Spruce Lodge. Every morning, the managers, Keith and Amy, whip up a breakfast according to your preferences, and in the evening, the staff starts a roaring fire, where you can snuggle with your significant other.

 

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

At Ober Gatlinburg, “Pole Cat Snowmakers” make slow-melting snow that exhibits a slightly different crystalline pattern and density than natural snow | Photo: Peter Horine

In November of 2016,  a devastating fire roared through Gatlinburg, destroying more than 2,460 structures. Roughly a year later, the “Gateway to the Smokies” is bustling again,  along with its downtown strip of candy kitchens, Southern-style restaurants, moonshine distilleries, mini-golf courses, old-time photo storefronts, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not-style attractions, including WonderWorks Science Museum, a Neo-Greco upside down building.  If you’re looking to romp through the snow with your sweetheart, head to Ober Gatlinburg. While the facility is a bit outdated, you can ice skate, alpine slide, or chair swing year round. You’ll also be able to visit with bears, river otters, bobcats, and birds of prey or ride a cable car—where you’ll have one of the most awe-inspiring views of the Smokies.

In 1960, when The Pancake Pantry opened in Gatlinburg, it was the only pancake house in Tennessee. Now, more than 50 years later, the Smoky Mountains are the “Pancake Capital of the World” with more than 20 pancake restaurants in 10.1 square miles. Considered a local treasure, the old-fashioned restaurant consistently has a line out of its door. While The Pancake Pantry doesn’t accept debit or credit cards, it does have a well thought out rotation plan and the best pancakes that you’ll ever eat: everything from the light, fluffy butter to the freshly whipped cream is made from scratch. Sweet potato pancakes, banana-pineapple triumph, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes: there are 24 different varieties to choose from—and each comes with a whopping side of good ‘ole Southern hospitality.

 

Tahoe City, California

Tahoe City, California
Built in 1909, Watson Cabin is the oldest building in Tahoe City | Photo: Lauren Tapia

Perched on the shore of Lake Tahoe at the headwaters of the Truckee River, Tahoe City is a snow lover’s paradise. With over 400 inches of annual snowfall and famous ski resorts, such as Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, and Northstar California, you’ll want to rip through thousands of acres of untreated terrain on a snarling snowmobile. From world-class half-pipes to snow tubing to ice fishing, Tahoe City has a magical mountain mix that makes for the ultimate winter escape. If you’re the more laid-back type, you can position the white-capped peaks and sapphire waters as a dreamy backdrop while you read a humorous book and knock back an espresso coffee at The Dam Cafe.

Indulge in River Ranch’s World Famous Nachos: tortilla chips topped with black beans, guacamole, chicken, olives, and a dollop of sour cream. Stop by Wolfdale’s for a local brew with a lakeside view.

 

Aspen, Colorado

Apen, Colorado
A winter sleigh ride near the town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado | Photo: Matt Inden

Located at the base of the Berthoud Pass in the Colorado Rockies, America’s Canary City teems with the rich and famous, stars like Kevin Costner and Jack Nicholson have 81611-zip codes.  Of course, that’s not what makes Aspen “stunning,” “awe-inspiring”, and “one of the loveliest places on earth.”  Dusted with at least an inch of snow for half of the year, it’s known for its skiing and is surrounded by four monumental ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk—a favorite among beginners—and Snowmass Ski Resort.  When the powder stops falling, though, its luster isn’t lost.

Aspen, Colorado snowy destinations
Aspen, Colorado

The Rocky Mountains have some spectacular hiking spots. The Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in America, are easily accessed during the summer months, less than 10 miles away. And, if you’re looking to relax on your vacay, try a therapeutic soak at Glenwood Springs: the one-million-gallon pool flirts with 90-degree temperatures.

Stop at the White House Tavern, one of the oldest structures in Aspen, for an Honor Burger: angus beef topped with white cheddar, tomatoes, and spicy coleslaw. Then sip a glass of Chateauneuf Du Pape at Creperie du Village, a 50-seat subterranean space lit by candlelight. “Our restaurant is adorned with many historical items [that] we brought with us from the Old World,” says owner Karin Derly. “As such, crossing the threshold transports diners to a chalet tucked high in the Alps.”

 

Bozeman, Montana

Big Sky, Montana snowy destinations
Rock climber Zach Dischner perches on top of Lone Mountain | Photo: Zach Dischner on Flickr (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The adventure capital of the Northern Rockies, Bozeman is an old Montana University town of ski bums and cowboys, pickup trucks and pampered pooches, and two of the best ski slopes in the US.

Bridger Bowl, a nonprofit ski area 20 minutes outside of town, has 7-acres of first-timer terrain.  Diehard skiers, the ones who duct tape their helmets with pride, flock to The Ridge, where snowfields sometimes end in cliffs and avalanche receivers are required. If skiing doesn’t make your honey-do-list, you can always fly fish, day hike, and whitewater raft without worrying about rain or snow because Bozeman averages 300 days of sunshine per year.

Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, The Lindley House, a Victorian Manor built in 1892, offers a complimentary continental-style breakfast. It’s also less than two blocks away from Shakespeare in the Park, the Farmer’s Market, the annual Sweet Pea Arts Festival, and The Siebel Dinosaur Complex—the US’s largest collection of North American dinosaur fossils.

Your Gift Guide: Holiday Makeup Sets From Your Favorite Brands

 

Wondering what to get those lovely beauty junkies in your life for the holidays? Or are you looking for a special little something that you can gift yourself with? Because let’s be honest, holiday shopping can call for some serious pampering. Well look no further, because we’ve rounded up the best holiday makeup sets from your favorite brands that are sure to bring all the cheer. These sets will have any makeup guru sparkling and shining bright into next year!

 

Too Faced Naughty Kisses & Sweet Cheeks, $36, Sephora

toofaced

Find your nearest mistletoe, because this vibrant lip and blush set will have your puckers looking oh so lush and shut-up-and-kiss-me ready. With two full-size lip-plumping glosses, three matching 16-hour mini blushes, and a deluxe-size lip plumper, your lips will be as enticing as a winter wonderland.

 

Too Faced The Chocolate Shop, $58, Sephora 

Too Faced has you covered this Yuletide season with their complete (and completely adorable) Chocolate Shop set. Everything in this line has been infused with real chocolate, so it’s truly as sweet as it looks. It includes everything from a festive eyeshadow selection with shades like Salted Caramel and White Chocolate, to beautiful bronzers, blushes, and illuminators. The set includes other Too Faced essentials in deluxe sizes, such as their bestselling Better Than Sex mascara and their signature Melted Lipstick.

 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit, $45, Sephora

anastasia

This holiday highlighter contains a set of six metallic highlighters that will have your complexion glowing as brightly as the first winter’s snow. Intensely illuminating, these powders can be used together or separately to accent cheekbones, cupid’s bow, nose, or eyes.

 

Lancome La Parisian Holiday Case, $59 with any Lancome purchase, Lancome

Over a $300 value, Lancome’s La Parisian Holiday Case packs 11 of the line’s full-size best-sellers, including their Hypnôse Drama Mascara, Le Crayon Khôl EyeLiner, and Juicy Tubes Lip Gloss to name a few. Also included in this magical set is a cosmetic bag, deluxe skincare sample, and a train case and artistry guide to help you achieve the perfect holiday look.

 

Clinique Chubby Treats Set. $25, Sephora

clinique

Experience gorgeous sheen shades with these six miniature but mega-cute chubby sticks! These lip tints are perfect for playing up natural beauty by offering a subtle pop of color. Your simple gal-pals will love this. The mango and shea butters in this ultra-nourishing formula will have lips feeling wrapped up like a warm blanket on a frosty night.

 

Honest Beauty Rose Gold Glimmer Kit $35, Ulta

Give her the gift of glam this season with Honest’s Rose Gold kit. Featuring the brand’s Luminizing Powder in Instant Sparkle, her cheeks will be gleaming brighter than ole’ Saint Nick’s. This collection also includes two gorgeous glosses for day and night wear, making sure her lips shine at every hour. Honest will also help you give back this holiday season by donating $1 for each kit sold to fund 1 year of computer science education for an elementary student through code.org.

 

Tarte Kiss Bliss Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint & Crayon Set $46, Sephora

 

tarte

This 10-piece tarte masterpiece kit is a complete holiday wardrobe for your lips. These attention grabbing and vegan-friendly formulated shades include season essentials like nude and bold berry. Featuring tastiest Lip Crayon shades, prime and line lips, then use the Tarte’s magical Matte Lip Paints for full-coverage, long-wearing color that’s kiss-proof.

 

Tarte Pretty Paintbox Palette, $59, Sephora

Don’t call this collector’s makeup case an elf on the shelf because it’s been doing anything but staying on the shelves for very long. Boasting not only 24 stunning eyeshadow shades from shimmery champagne to matte burgundy, this all-in-one compact also features the brand’s popular mascara, eyeliner, pink-nude lip paint, blush, highlighter, and bronzer formulas.

 

 

Bareminerals Be Beautiful READY Face & Eye Palette, $45, Ulta

bareminerals

Inner beauty shines with this gorgeous eye and face palette, offering gorgeous glistening finishes and look-at-me eyes that will have you glowing at any joyful celebration this holiday season.

 

Benefit Cosmetics Bigger & Bolder Brows Kit $34, Sephora

benefit

Perfect for brow-obsessed girlfriends, this all-in-one set lets you shape, fill, and set your arches for a bold or soft and natural look. Smudge-proof, this kit will set those gorgeous faces and complete your look, whether you’re heading gift-shopping or stepping out to a holiday party.

 

NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede Lip Cream Vault Set, $50, Ulta

24 striking mini versions of the line’s best selling lippie’s, these matte shades offer nearly every color in one set. What more could you ask for? The exhaustive range of hues will help create any holiday look you can dream of this season.

10 Ugly Christmas Sweaters That Are Actually Really Cute

Starbucks has whipped out its famous red cups. Santa has sprung up on the corner of nearly every street. And Christmas specials are taking the small screen by storm. This can only mean one thing: it’s officially ugly sweater season.

Our social calendar demands that we toss our fashion sense aside and scour the racks at stores for full-on festive eye sores: sweaters that are covered with huge pom-poms, glitter piles, blinking lights, and stuffed animals.

Sure, searching for nightmare-inducing tragedies of yarn and tinsel for National Ugly Sweater Day or over-the-top Christmas parties is a time-honored tradition. However, they’re usually only worn once before their stored away for 364 days or sent to the garment graveyard. So, why not pick out a Christmas sweater that’s actually cute? One that you could snuggle up in on weekends, proudly display in your family’s pictures, or even sneak into your New Year’s wardrobe?

We’ve rounded up 10 adorable, holiday-themed sweaters. We’ve picked subtle pieces that you can rock out until February, but we’ve also included some truly gaudy sweaters that are so eye-catching you’ll want to wear them beyond your ugly Christmas sweater parties.

 

Silver Spoon Life’s Penguin Ugly Christmas Sweater, Etsy

christmas sweater

Looking naughty has never been so nice. This off the shoulder sweater features silver garland-lined wrists, dangling blue bells, and a soft and glittering penguin with a bulging snowglobe belly that’ll waddle its way into your Christmas sweater collection for years to come.

 

H&M’s Jacquard-Knit Sweater, H&M

christmas sweater

Forgo those bulky winter layers. Slip into this alpaca wool, cotton-blend sweater with ribbed cuffs. Choose the reindeer design to take your look up, up, and away. Black, grey, or beige diamond patterns also have winter wardrobe staying power.

 

Forever 21’s Plus Size Snowman Sweater, Forever 21

Chill in this light-weight, ribbed-knit sweater embroidered with a dancing snowman complete with a red and white striped scarf and pom-pom beanie.

 

Nordstrom’s Fleece Navidad Graphic Christmas Sweater, Nordstrom

4fleece-navidad-graphic-christmas-sweater

This fuzzy sheep is electrifying with its fake reindeer antlers. Plus, the sweater’s wordplay on “Feliz Navidad” will get a grin from even the biggest Grinches.

 

Vogue of Eden’s Oversized Christmas Deer and Maple Leaves Knitted Sweater, Amazon

christmas sweater

Snuggle up in this oversized, cotton sweater decorated with deer and maple leaves: ancient symbols for lovers that make this sweater a closet keeper until after Valentine’s Day.

 

Macy’s Melange Snowflake Graphic Sweater, Macy’s

This black and white speckled pullover isn’t just roomy, its abstract snowflake design is subtle enough for weekend present runs and crushing your New Year’s resolutions.

 

Tacky Ugly Christmas’ A Vision in Pink Christmas Tree Sweater, Etsy

christmas sweater

Look pretty in pink in this salvaged sweater by Debbie McClain. Its silver garland tree is dotted with tiny turtle doves, outlandish ornaments, and working lights. With a bedazzled neckline and feather boa tutu, this sweater is so ugly that it’s cute.

 

Macy’s Jacquard Deer-Pattern Sweater, Macy’s

10jacquard-deer-pattern-sweater

Add this down-to-earth pullover to your holiday-event circuit. Spacious and long, it’s the perfect way to prevent Jack Frost from nipping at your nibbly bits. Pair it with holiday-themed leggings for a Christmas-chic appearance.

New Christmas Classics for the Holiday Season

Christmas music is as much a holiday tradition as the cookies, the tree, the presents and even the big guy himself, Santa Claus. And every year your local radio stations crank up the Johnny Mathis, Dean Martin and Brenda Lee, playing the same tunes, beloved though they may be, ad nauseam. While these songs are cherished for a reason, they need to make room for a new, swingin’ set of seasonal favorites. Look, you’ve done the jingle bell rock, you’ve seen mommy kissing Santa Claus and you’re well aware that “baby, it’s cold outside” (and, while we’re on the topic, you’re probably none too thrilled about the implication either). So with that in mind, here’s a Christmas playlist of shoulda-been, coulda-been and surely soon-to-be yuletide classics.

 

1. Coldest Night of the Year

by Vashti Bunyan

Well, it’s supposed to be cold in December, and even if it isn’t, this folk-pop number from British chanteus, Vashti Bunyan, is a lovely alternative to the many “please stay so we can make-out” standards of the season.

 

2. I Wish You a Merry Christmas

by Big Dee & Little Eva

No Christmas party is complete without this upbeat swinger from the lady who taught us all how to do the Locomotion. Pour some eggnog and cut a rug.

 

3. Presents for Christmas

by Solomon Burke

You can practically hear the wrapping paper being ripped to shreds as this classic from the 1968 Atlantic Records Soul Christmas LP plays. It’s guaranteed to make those socks you’re bound to get a little more interesting.

 

4. Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight)

by The Ramones

Let’s not kid ourselves: the holidays are stressful. Sure, there’s good cheer, peace on Earth and all that, but disagreements are inevitable. Should you encounter an acrimonious moment or two this Christmas, worry not, as the boys from Queens have just the solution.

 

5. Merry Christmas Everybody

by Slade

A monster of a hit in England and an official “Christmas number one” on the British airwaves (a unique radio tradition in the UK), Slade’s holiday anthem has slowly, but steadily found its way to the States. And with good reason: it’s a warm, nostalgic and totally rockin’ ode to December 25.

 

6. I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday

by Wizzard

A sentiment that in theory we can all probably get behind, “I Wish it Could Be Christmas Everyday,” evokes that joyous feeling you get when everything is in full swing, everyone is having a grand time and you really don’t want the season to end. Of course, a day later you might feel quite different. (Note: this song can be quite effective during the dog days of summer as well.)

 

7. Rock and Roll Santa

by The 5.6.7.8’s

Everyone’s favorite all-female Japanese retro-rockablly trio tackle this yuletide rave-up by first generation rockabilly singer, Little Joey Farber. It delivers an instant party.

 

8. Back Door Santa

by Clarence Carter

You can’t have the “nice” without the “naughty.” This fun, raunchy ode to Santa as a lovable cad also provides the sample for Run-DMC’s classic, “Christmas in Hollis.”

 

9. Jesus Christ

by Big Star

Christmas is, of course, a religious holiday whether we celebrate it with that in mind or not. Though not a religious man himself, Big Star frontman, Alex Chilton, knew what made a good tune. The jangling guitar pop of “Jesus Christ” has emerged as a holiday staple for a new generation of revelers.

 

10. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

by Aimee Mann

While Mann is better known for her melancholy numbers about life’s more tragic characters, her recent foray into Christmas has presented a new side to her artistry. Her rendition of this holiday standard evokes both the beauty and the subtle mournfulness of the season.

 

11. Silent Night

by The Temptations

Motown is perhaps the definitive American record label, once called “the Sound of Young America,” so it’s no surprise then that the label’s Christmas albums would be a source for new holiday standards. The Temptations take on perhaps the most solemn of Christmas carols, from their 1970 album The Temptations Christmas Card, is handled with a deep soulful warmth thanks in large part to the bass vocals of Melvin Franklin.

Simple Ways to Support Our Troops This Christmas

More than 1.6 million Americans are actively serving in the U.S. Armed Forces with 21.8 million more veterans at home. These brave men and women deserve our gratitude every day of the year, but especially around the holidays. Here, we’ve rounded up our favorite organizations that support the troops while they’re on active duty and after they’ve come home.

 

Cell Phones for Soldiers

For active-duty military members, talking with loved ones back home provides untold comfort and keeps important family connections alive. Cell Phones for Soldiers helps them do this. Since 2004, the organization has been collecting used cell phones and using the proceeds to send prepaid international calling cards to troops overseas. To get involved, simply mail in your old cell phone with a printable packing label or drop it off at one of the many collection sites around the country. By recycling your old phone, you’re helping the environment, too.

 

 

Operation Gratitude’s Scarves for Troops Program

Get crafty for a good cause. Operation Gratitude sends more than 100,000 care packages to troops overseas every year and each one contains a handmade item. On the Operation Gratitude blog, founder Carolyn Blashek writes that scarves “send the very warm and loving message that people at home care enough to take the time and effort to make something as beautiful as a scarf.” Scarves of all patterns are warmly welcomed.

 

 

Puppies Behind Bars

Man’s best friend can also be a returning soldier’s lifesaver. A physical injury, traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder can make adjusting back to civilian life difficult or impossible for many veterans. Service dogs, with their bottomless love and devotion, can make a profound difference in the lives of veterans suffering from these conditions. With a donation to Puppies Behind Bars, you’re helping two populations in need: prison inmates and wounded war veterans. The organization trains prison inmates to raise service dogs who are then placed with veterans. In turn, prison inmates learn valuable professional skills and veterans get devoted companions.

 

 

Adopt A US Soldier

Give an active-duty soldier support and a taste of home when they’re far away. Active in more than 170 countries and territories around the world, Adopt A US Soldier connects soldiers with civilians who want to show their gratitude. The mother of a soldier stationed in Iraq founded the organization after she learned of the huge emotional impact that words of encouragement and care packages can provide. It’s an opportunity to develop a one-on-one relationship with a currently serving soldier. Supporters send one letter a week and an optional care package once a month. Commitments can be short-term or long-term.

 

 

United Through Reading

Active-duty soldiers sacrifice so much to serve our country, including giving up precious time with their children. United Through Reading helps keep the parent-child bond thriving by recording and distributing videos of soldiers reading bedtime stories for their children back home. In 2014, the organization served more than 100,000 beneficiaries. You can get involved through a donation on the website or by volunteering your time in a variety of ways.

 

https://player.vimeo.com/video/96754291