I’m one of those people who keeps a tree up for months after it’s socially acceptable, so I’m excited to be able to say that the holidays are officially upon us. That means sugar cookie-scented candles, cozy PJs, and stunting on everyone from high school at your hometown holiday party (the true meaning of Christmas). But possibly the best part of the holidays is having way too many excuses to dress up and feel fancy.
Ahead, we’re rounding up the perfect accent pieces—those memorable details that add polish to your look and tie everything together. Shop our favorites for the season, starting with the ideal, at-home gel manicure essentials.
A Quick Gel Manicure
DIY the look, feel, and durability of gel nails with Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish. I like that it’s an easy two-step application process: Just paint on two coats of the Gel Couture shade of your choice, let it dry, then add one coat of Gel Couture top coat. It’s the same beautiful, long-lasting result as salon gels, sans the damaging lamps and removal. You don’t have to sacrifice color options—there are over 100 shades, so you can find the perfect holiday hue to be the very best accessory for your look, whether that’s gold glitter, bright red, or a classic nude. (You do you.)
A Fresh Hairstyle
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In case your social feed hasn’t made it glaringly obvious, hair accessories are everything at the moment. The simple addition of a barrette instantly elevates any everyday style. And this pearl-bedecked option is even elegant enough to replace an updo—which means you get to look and feel like yourself. Bonus: The design reminds me of warm, twinkly lights on the tree.
A Playful Pump
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I think there’s zero reason to shell out for a new holiday-occasion dress when you can easily refresh a piece you already own with a great pair of heels. Your favorite office LBD serves as the perfect foundation for your party look when you add some fun, fancy-ish accessories—like these pom-pom pumps from Sam Edelman.
A Low-Maintenance Lip
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One of my favorite ways to show everyone around me that I *actually* have my life together is to match my lipstick to my manicure. Especially during the holidays, you can’t go wrong with a classic red (on your lips or nails), and MAC’s Powder Kiss formula is definitely the route to take. It goes on as smooth as chapstick, but dries to a gorgeous matte finish that will last through hot chocolate, mistletoe kisses, and everything in between.
A Holiday Scent
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They say olfactory memories are the strongest, and I’m betting everyone will remember you with a spritz of this Tom Ford fragrance. It smells like warm cherry pie (fresh from the oven), and will leave a sweet trace wherever you go. Reserve it for the holidays only, and every time you (or your loved ones) smell it, you’ll know it’s that special time of year again.