A Winter Wish: A Novel curated on LTK

Wearing an outfit inspired by Lexie—think a cozy pink sweater, skinny jeans, brown knee-high boots, and a bold red scarf—might just be the secret to stepping into the main character energy you've been craving. The laid-back, yet striking look is perfect for taking on unexpected journeys and navigating life's curveballs, much like Lexie’s year of working alongside Theo at her late father’s holiday travel company. The pink sweater captures Lexie’s warmth and wanderlust, while the red scarf adds a touch of holiday magic and boldness, reminding you to stay open to new opportunities—and maybe even unexpected romance. Whether you're strolling city streets or curling up with a good book, this outfit wraps you in a blend of adventure and charm, making you feel ready to explore new possibilities in your own story. LTKHoliday LTKSeasonal LTKStyleTip

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Napier Gold Tone Holiday Bow and Ball Leverback Drop Earrings | Kohl's

Women's Narina Tall Boots | Cole Haan (US)

Brushed woven scarf in stripe | J. Crew US

The Lennon Wide-Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater by Pilcro | Anthropologie (US)

ashleyhasty

On a brisk December Wednesday, she leaned into cozy-chic with her faux leather leggings and a black-and-white Fair Isle sweater that practically screamed "I own this festive season!" Her white leather sneakers added a clean, modern touch, while her everyday gold hoops proved yet again that even casual days deserve a little sparkle. The morning was filled with tambourines, jingle bells, and a beautifully diverse playlist at the first music class of a multicultural holiday session—Miles clapping enthusiastically (and slightly offbeat) to every song. Afterward, she transitioned seamlessly into daycare/cowork mode, sipping peppermint tea and riding the productive wave of holiday cheer, her sweater reminding her coworkers that festivity is a mindset.

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On a frosty December Tuesday, she pulled together an outfit that balanced cozy and classic—wide-legged jeans paired with a crisp white oxford shirt layered under a soft gray sweater. Her shearling-lined black loafers were the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, and her everyday gold hoops added just a touch of shine to the festive chaos ahead. The day started with a productive morning at daycare/cowork (read: sipping coffee while checking off emails), transitioned into an afternoon of untangling twinkle lights and debating whether the stockings looked better on the mantle or the staircase, and ended with her chasing a giggling Miles around the living room. By bedtime, the house felt a little more like Christmas, and her heart felt a little more full.

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After two weeks of Thanksgiving travels that felt like a whirlwind of hugs, pie, and never-ending toddler energy, she embraced her first Monday back home with an outfit that screamed cozy-meets-polished. Her wide-legged jeans with chic front pocket detail paired perfectly with a blue turtleneck featuring subtle stripe detailing, layered under an oversized blue cardigan that felt like a warm hug. Shearling-lined black loafers kept her grounded, while her everyday gold hoops added a hint of sparkle as she dove back into the routine. With Christmas decorations now adorning every corner of the house and holiday tunes playing softly in the background, the day felt less like a return to normalcy and more like stepping into a Hallmark movie—routine, yes, but wrapped in the undeniable magic of the season.

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Wearing a black watch turtleneck with its deep green and navy plaid, she feels instantly wrapped in the spirit of the holiday season. Paired with wide-legged jeans, the outfit is a balance of cozy and chic, perfect for relaxed gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire. Gold hoop earrings add a subtle, festive sparkle, catching the glow of holiday lights around her. As she sips a glass of rosé, its soft blush hues a delicate contrast to the winter palette, she feels an unexpected warmth. In this moment, she’s the main character in her own holiday story—effortlessly stylish, savoring the season’s joys with elegance and ease.

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My week as a romcom: Ashley, the effortlessly cool stay-at-home mom, had a week straight out of a holiday romcom. It all started Monday aboard the Polar Express, where Miles clutched his golden ticket like a pro and gleefully sipped hot chocolate while the grandparents beamed like they were in their own Christmas movie. Tuesday was a laid-back day of playing with Miles and cozy chats with the grandparents, perfect for gearing up for Wednesday’s trip to her hometown. There, Ashley caught up with her oldest friends, swapping stories that made her feel like she’d stepped back in time. Thursday brought turkey, pie, and plenty of laughs at her mother-in-law’s, where family stories flowed as easily as the gravy. By Friday, the holiday glow continued with a visit from her brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and their adorable nephew, who made every moment feel like the perfect cap to a week brimming with love, nostalgia, and just the right amount of holiday chaos.

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On a freezing Black Friday at her in-laws, she opted for brown waxed pants that felt just edgy enough to take on the chill, paired with a camel and ivory striped boatneck top that peeked out beneath her camel coat—because cute outfits don’t stand a chance without proper layering in this weather. Her new platform sneakers with their subtle gold detail added a pop of modern flair to an otherwise classic look, while her everyday gold hoops and necklace tied it all together with effortless charm. The day started with a nostalgic coffee date with an old friend, filled with laughter and stories that made her heart warm despite the frosty air. Back at the house, her son was delighting in playtime with his cousin, aunt, and uncle, their laughter echoing through the halls—a holiday soundtrack she wished she could bottle and save for later.

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On Thanksgiving Day at her in-laws, she leaned into effortless chic with her wide-legged jeans, the perfect blend of relaxed and refined for a day that would involve equal parts feasting and family bonding. A tan cardigan with a matching shell made her feel put together but cozy—ideal for chasing after Miles between bites of pumpkin pie. Her new platform sneakers, with their subtle gold detail, whispered style without trying too hard (because nobody needs to fuss when there’s stuffing to serve). Her everyday gold hoops and necklace added a hint of elegance, grounding her in the tradition of showing up, shining just a little, and giving thanks for the messy, beautiful moments that made the holiday special.

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We chose a butterfly theme for our son’s second birthday because of his pure joy every time he saw one, whether it was fluttering outside, printed in his picture books, or even the small butterfly image on his yogurt packets. His eyes would light up, and his excitement was contagious! He’s also developed an adorable habit of mispronouncing “butterfly” as “firefly,” which just melts our hearts. It felt like the perfect theme to celebrate this sweet phase of his life, where the simple beauty of a butterfly brings so much happiness.

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On the day before Thanksgiving, she reached for the kind of outfit that could multitask as well as she did. Wide-legged jeans struck the perfect balance of casual and cool, while a black tank top layered under the ivory cardigan from Monday added a touch of cozy familiarity—because yes, she believed in rewearing great pieces. Her new platform sneakers with their subtle gold detail kept her stylish and comfortable for the drive to her in-laws, while her everyday gold jewelry—hoops and a necklace she never took off—added just the right amount of sparkle for dinner out with her high school friends. By the time the evening ended, full of laughter and shared memories, her outfit had proven its versatility, just like she knew it would.

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On a sun-dappled Tuesday by the lake, she stepped out channeling pure 1990s Meg Ryan energy—the kind of look that made you wonder if she was about to deliver a charming monologue about love and serendipity. Wide-legged jeans brought just the right touch of casual ease, paired with an ivory tank peeking out from under a crisp white oxford shirt she may or may not have borrowed from her husband’s side of the closet. Her new platform sneakers with their subtle gold detail whispered cool but practical, and her everyday gold jewelry—those signature hoops and dainty necklace—kept it all effortlessly polished. With Thanksgiving prep in full swing, she felt ready to take on the chaos of family gatherings, armed with nothing but classic style and a breezy disposition.

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My grandma was absolutely delighted that we were twinning at our family Thanksgiving celebration—proof, I think, that I inherited my sense of style from her. I find myself saying this every time we’re together, but it rings truer with each time: I feel so incredibly lucky to still have her in my life.

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On a crisp Monday by the lake, she leaned fully into her Diane Keaton but make it Thanksgiving aesthetic, pairing wide-legged cropped ivory pants with a sleeveless turtleneck layered under an equally ivory cardigan that screamed effortlessly chic. Her new platform sneakers—with that subtle gold detail she couldn’t stop obsessing over—grounded the look in practicality, because chasing a toddler by the grandparents’ dock wasn’t exactly a heels kind of affair. Her everyday gold hoops added the perfect touch of polish as she sipped her morning coffee and planned the week ahead, the sweater weather and lake breeze making her feel like she was in a Nancy Meyers movie. Cozy, classy, and oh-so-ready for the holiday chaos to come.

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Wrapped in a cozy black-and-white Fair Isle sweater, she feels both warm and stylish, the intricate patterns lending a timeless charm to her look. Paired with dark wash wide-legged jeans, the outfit strikes a balance between classic and contemporary, blending comfort with a sense of effortless flair. The gold hoop earrings add a touch of understated elegance, catching the light with each movement. As she takes a sip of crisp white wine, the fresh flavors brighten the moment, allowing her to unwind. In this simple but perfect scene, she feels like the main character in her own story—relaxed, confident, and fully immersed in the quiet luxury of the moment.

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Ashley, the effortlessly cool stay-at-home mom, had a week full of family, fun, and just the right amount of chaos. Monday started sweetly with a library visit, where Miles proudly picked out books while the grandparents soaked up his every adorable moment. Tuesday’s zoo trip was a hit—Miles couldn’t decide if he loved the elephants or the snack cart more, and Ashley snapped enough photos to fill a memory album. Wednesday was a win for everyone: while Miles and the grandparents explored a charming play space set up like a tiny village, Ashley snagged a blissful hour at a coffee shop, working on her blog (and savoring an uninterrupted latte). Thursday brought the first of many Thanksgiving celebrations, full of turkey, pie, and moments that reminded Ashley how much she loved this season. By Friday, children’s story time turned into a full-on shopping detour when Miles wasn’t feeling the quiet vibe—thank goodness for grandparents who made even impromptu errands feel like a win. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh; with family by her side, even the wild moments felt like part of the magic.

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This year’s picks from the Ring Concierge Black Friday sale include a mix of timeless staples and special treats. I’m linking a few pieces from my jewelry collection including my go-to herringbone necklace and a pair of earrings similar to my beloved daily hoops—effortless pieces that elevate any outfit. For a little sparkle, I treated myself to the perfect “going-out” earrings, adding just the right amount of drama for date nights and special occasions. On my wish list? Two necklaces to complete my everyday stack that I’ve been eyeing for months. This sale made it impossible not to indulge!

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On a long-awaited Friday, she wore her thank goodness, it’s almost the weekend uniform: wide-legged jeans that walked the perfect line between effortless and trendy, a black-and-white striped sweater that felt delightfully Parisian, and her new platform sneakers with just enough gold detail to make her feel like she tried (but not too hard). Her everyday gold jewelry added a touch of sparkle as she sipped her latte at a cozy coffee shop story hour, Miles happily perched on her lap. Later, they hit the shops with Grandma in tow, hunting for new toddler clothes (because, apparently, toddlers grow faster than weeds). As they loaded the car with tiny sweaters and pint-sized jeans, she grinned—ready to kick off a weekend that promised family time and maybe, just maybe, a little rest.

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Buying a new red scarf inspired by The Liberty Scarf this year might just be the way to channel the main character energy you’re looking for. More than a pop of color, this scarf represents the hope, resilience, and unity shared by Iris, Geneviève, and Clara in 1917, as they navigate love and loss amid the turmoil of war. As Iris stitches messages into her scarves, she embodies a quiet strength and creativity, making her designs symbols of connection. With a red scarf wrapped around you, you’ll feel linked to the courage of women who’ve used small acts of grace to make a difference. Each time you wear it, this scarf becomes more than just an accessory—it’s a reminder of the fierce and hopeful character within you, carrying a bit of timeless bravery and elegance into every winter day.

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On a blustery Thursday, she pulled together an outfit that said, “I can sip lattes while typing furiously at a coffee shop and still look chic carving a turkey later.” Her wide-legged dark wash jeans and classic black turtleneck served as the perfect base, while the sheer blazer with velvet polka dots added just the right amount of festive flair. New platform sneakers with a subtle gold detail ensured she could power through the day in comfort, from caffeine-fueled productivity in the morning to a cozy family Thanksgiving dinner in the evening. Her everyday gold hoops peeked out from her hair, catching the light with every gust of wind. As she stepped into the warmth of her family’s home, she smiled, silently thankful for the breezy fall weather—far better than the snowy chaos she knew Chicago was getting right now.

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Chicago is a city full of charm, history, and vibrant culture, making it the perfect inspiration for thoughtful holiday gifting. Whether you're shopping for a local Chicagoan, a former resident who misses the city, or someone who simply adores the Windy City’s iconic landmarks and unique flair, this curated list of Chicago-themed holiday gifts has something for everyone. From locally crafted treasures to items celebrating the city’s beloved neighborhoods and traditions, these gifts capture the essence of Chicago and are sure to delight anyone on your list.

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On a gusty Wednesday that had her hair doing its best impression of a windblown supermodel, she reached for her wide-legged jeans and her effortlessly chic black batwing sleeve sweater—a combination as practical as it was stylish. Her new platform sneakers, with that subtle gold detail she loved, gave her the perfect boost to chase Miles around the adorable indoor play space that looked like a miniature village. With her everyday gold hoops catching the light as she “ordered” a pretend latte at the play café or ducked into the pint-sized post office to “mail” a letter, she couldn’t help but marvel at how utterly charming it all was. Miles was thrilled, she was cozy, and the wind stayed outside where it belonged.

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On a stunningly crisp Tuesday, she dressed for a day of wild adventures and endless photo ops at the zoo with the grandparents. Wide-legged dark wash jeans offered the perfect mix of style and comfort, while her oatmeal sweater wrapped her in cozy vibes that practically begged for a cup of hot cider between exhibits. Her new platform sneakers, with their subtle gold detail, kept her stylish yet zoo-trek ready, and her everyday gold hoops and necklace added a hint of understated glamour. As Miles giggled at the antics of the playful monkeys and his grandparents pointed out the giraffes, she couldn’t help but feel grateful for days like this—family, sunshine, and just enough chill in the air to make her sweater feel like a good idea.

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On a rainy Monday, she embraced a cozy, chic vibe that perfectly balanced weekend exhaustion with weekday ambition. Wide-legged cropped ivory jeans set the stage for her outfit, paired with a chambray shirt layered under a camel sweater vest—like a warm hug of a look that whispered, Let’s keep it low-key today. Her new platform sneakers, with a subtle gold detail, added just enough flair to remind the world she still had her sparkle, rain or shine. Her signature gold hoops and necklace tied it all together as she and Miles strolled into the library, settling into the calm and quiet after their bustling Branson weekend. Sometimes, a little drizzle and a good book are all you need.

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Wearing an ivory and tan striped boat neck shirt, she feels effortlessly stylish, the classic stripes giving her look a hint of Parisian charm. Paired with wide-legged jeans, the outfit flows with a relaxed sophistication, perfectly suited for a quiet moment of unwinding. Gold hoop earrings add a touch of polish, glinting softly as she moves. With a glass of crisp white wine in hand, its flavors grounding her in the moment, she feels like the main character in her own life—embracing a sense of elegance and calm that’s entirely her own, savoring the balance of simplicity and luxury.

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“The world belongs to those who read.” — Rick Holland 2/2)

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My week as a romcom: Friday’s outfit was peak “effortlessly cool mom on the go,” perfect for traveling with a toddler and still looking pulled together. She chose wide-legged jeans and layered a classic white long-sleeve t-shirt under a cozy gray waffle henley, her go-to new sneakers ready for everything from airport sprints to backyard leaf piles. Her gold hoops and necklace gave the look a bit of polish because, even on travel days, she stayed true to her style. After arriving at her family’s house, there was just enough time to drop the bags, bundle up, and head to the local high school football game—where small-town nostalgia and a crisp autumn night felt like the perfect kickoff to the holiday season.

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“The world belongs to those who read.” — Rick Holland (1/2)

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Friday’s outfit was peak “effortlessly cool mom on the go,” perfect for traveling with a toddler and still looking pulled together. She chose wide-legged jeans and layered a classic white long-sleeve t-shirt under a cozy gray waffle henley, her go-to new sneakers ready for everything from airport sprints to backyard leaf piles. Her gold hoops and necklace gave the look a bit of polish because, even on travel days, she stayed true to her style. After arriving at her family’s house, there was just enough time to drop the bags, bundle up, and head to the local high school football game—where small-town nostalgia and a crisp autumn night felt like the perfect kickoff to the holiday season.

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Wearing a dress inspired by Janine Kovac, author of The Nutcracker Chronicles: A Fairytale Memoir, to see The Nutcracker this year just might be the perfect way to embrace your own main character energy. Janine’s journey, from young ballet dancer to wife, mother, and literary curator, mirrors the transformation many of us experience as we grow through different roles in life. A dress that reflects both the grace of a dancer and the strength of a woman who has embraced every stage of her life is an empowering choice. Whether it’s a ballet-inspired tulle gown or something sleek and sophisticated with a touch of sparkle, this look captures the magic of The Nutcracker and the personal evolution Janine writes about. Stepping into that dress, you’ll feel ready to take center stage in your own life, finding joy and balance just as Janine does throughout her unique and inspiring story.

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For mom’s night out last night I made a few changes to my daytime look: I swapped out the t-shirt for a bodysuit and the sneakers for black mules with a gold buckle. I also added my gold necklace for a little more bling. The jeans, cardigan and belt remained the same

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Thursday brought that cozy, autumnal vibe in full force, with dark wash wide-legged jeans and a classic black turtleneck layered under a brown fair isle cardigan—just the right mix of festive and effortlessly cool. Her go-to sneakers were on, of course, ready for anything the day brought, and her everyday gold hoops added a touch of elegance to her cozy look. It was book club day, which meant gathering with her favorite crew of moms, reading sweet Thanksgiving stories, and diving into a table full of acorn crafts. As the toddlers painted and glued (and possibly tried to eat) their acorns, she looked around at the joyful chaos and couldn’t help but feel a warm, pre-holiday glow.

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Wednesday's look was city-mom chic with a touch of “I’ve got this.” She started with her wide-legged jeans, the ones with a subtle front pocket detail that made her feel like she could tackle anything, paired with a navy v-neck long-sleeve under her crisp, white lady jacket cardigan. Her go-to sneakers were ready to hit the ground running, and her everyday gold hoops added that perfect dash of sparkle. They kicked off the morning with a trip to the pediatrician for the two-year check-up (brave little guy!), then headed straight to music class—a sure fix to any morning woes. By the time he was shaking maracas, all was right in the world again.

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Tuesday called for her favorite button-fly skinny jeans, the reliable kind that fits just right (because yes, Millennials still love them!), paired with a sleek black turtleneck layered under a cozy gray sweater. Her go-to sneakers were laced up, and her trusty gold hoops made their daily appearance, adding that touch of “I’ve got this.” Today was all about maximizing time at the daycare/co-working space—him with his mini friends, her powering through projects with a coffee refill or two. It felt like a good balance, like the jeans that hug just right and the hoops that never let her down.

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On Monday, she buttoned up in her wide-legged jeans with a playful front pocket, slipping a navy and camel striped turtleneck under her camel sweater blazer—just the right combo of cozy and chic. Her go-to sneakers were a given, ready for toddler-chasing, and her trusty gold hoops added that everyday polish. The toddler dance party was a hit, with her son pulling out his best wobbly moves, spinning and giggling with abandon. Watching him bop around, his face lit with pure joy, she couldn’t help but feel the beat herself—today’s only dance floor rule: total, uninhibited fun.

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Wearing a beautiful, cozy green sweater that wraps her in warmth, she feels an instant connection to the season’s comfort. Paired with wide-legged jeans, her look is both relaxed and stylish, with just the right balance of casual and chic. The gold hoop earrings add a touch of understated elegance, catching the light as she moves. As she sips on a crisp glass of white wine, the cool, refreshing taste perfectly complements the serene vibe of the moment. In this simple yet perfect scene, she feels like the main character in her own life, embracing the beauty of the everyday with grace and confidence.

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My week as a romcom: Ashley, the effortlessly cool stay-at-home mom, had a week as full as her coffee cup—and twice as strong. She kicked things off with nearly a full day of daycare on Monday, savoring the extra time to catch up on her to-do list (and maybe even a little self-care). Tuesday was Election Day, and between errands and voting, she was feeling all the civic pride. Wednesday brought their favorite music class, where her son clapped along like he was headlining a tiny concert, much to her delight. Thursday’s Little Book Club was the perfect setup for lunch with her mom friends and their kiddos—matching chaos with laughs over lunch, and her heart was full. And that evening? A night out with her oldest friends in the city, which made her feel young and free, just for a bit. By Friday, she was balancing a playdate in the morning with a well-planned daycare afternoon, a little breather to round out the whirlwind week. Ashley’s week had been a perfect mix of mom life and her life, and she was already making plans to do it all over again.

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