For many of us, “home for the holidays” will be taking on new meaning this year. While it’s tempting to make the holidays an extension of our fuzzy slippers-sweats-pizza-on-the-couch WFH existence, I’m here to pull you off that couch, brush that 3rd-day hair, dress you in a chic but comfy blazer (still with sweats if that’s your thing), and sit you down at a gorgeous holiday-inspired table with loved ones. Don’t feel any pressure to be Martha Stewart - who doesn’t love Stove Top stuffing?? - but DO find little ways to enjoy the holidays and take opportunities to make occasions feel special - even from the comfort of home.

First, let’s talk outfits. I’m currently obsessed with blazers, and they are the perfect choice to look like you made an effort but are still casual: if you choose the right style, fabric, and structure, they can become your go-to instead of (or on top of!) your comfy hoodie or cardigan. Here are some tips on how to style a blazer, and then I share some of my top picks with you below:

Blazers add an element of style to any outfit. If you’re feeling like it’s a jeans and T-shirt kind of day, top it off with a blazer for a polished look.
Don’t be afraid to wear your sweatpants out of the house! Just throw on an oversized blazer, your favorite sneakers, and a crossbody bag and your streetstyle game just won!
Leather (or faux) just got better! Pull on your favorite leather pants, a silk blouse, your knee high boots, and a blazer.

I’m very finicky about my blazers, and the blazers I choose for my clients. I always make sure to choose blazers that are form fitting, flattering, and versatile. You should invest in blazers that can be a staple in your closet. Don’t be afraid to invest a little more money in a nice blazer as it will stay in your wardrobe forever. I’ve shared some of my top picks in Tara’s November Finds below, so keep reading!

Next, let’s talk holiday-inspired tablescapes. Whether it’s homemade or Stove Top, your stuffing deserves a place of glory on a gorgeous table. I am looking forward to stepping up my typical placemat and paper napkins game to create special holiday meals for my family - even if it’s just us.

For help with my tablescape game, I turned to two local businesses, Greentail Table and Fleuri Designs, and I just love what they came up with - not too fussy or complicated - simple, neutral, and natural, but with a sense of occasion and homey warmth. These pieces are so versatile - they can work for special occasions or even every day -- and now is the perfect time to start your collection and add to it over time.

Greentail Table Owner Linda de Valpine describes her approach:

“Since Thanksgiving will look and feel so different this year, I wanted this tablescape to have a calming and casual aesthetic yet still feel pretty and slightly sophisticated. I took my inspiration from the soft and soothing color palette of the fringed cotton runner, with its soft greys, blues and subtle gold dot accents. From there I layered it with warm wood tones in the candleholders and selected casual dinnerware in greys and warm “linen” and popped it a bit with a surprising graphic napkin--all juxtaposed against a neutral hand-woven tablecloth with a slight texture. I then added some seasonal elements like the white pumpkins and leaf accent cards. It all came together with the lovely permanent botanicals from Fleuri!”

Tara’s November Finds

Here are some of the things I’m loving this month:

What I’m Wearing: Blazers (see photos above)

Veronica Beard has the best fitted blazers. The appealing thing about her blazers is the ability to switch out the insert. Veronica Beard offers a variety of inserts, called Dickey’s, that you can easily zip in and out of a blazer. This means you can wear one blazer several different ways
I never thought I could wear an oversized blazer at 5’2 but the Jayden jacket from FreePeople fits perfectly and is so comfortable. Check it out in action here.
I love a tweed blazer in the cooler months! You don’t have to break the bank to find the perfect tweed blazer. I found a cute cropped tweed blazer at Bloomingdales. This trend has been around long enough that I feel like you can find exactly what you’re looking for in most stores.
My favorite blazers are from Zadig & Voltaire! They always have chic blazers that you can throw over a dress, wear with jeans, pretty much style with everything.

What’s Happening in my Kitchen: Fall Comfort Foods

Super easy flourless, monstrous, so satisfying cookies
Dying to try this simple recipe for turkey breast from one of my favorite jewelry designers
This slow cooker turkey breast recipe is on repeat for us when I have zero time but need something substantial and “one pot”
Tummy-warming and filling ribollita - talk about a meal in a bowl!
Stepped-up snacks with a kick

What I’m Eyeing for Home: All Things Cozy

Definitely doing this for gifts for friends and family (and one for me of course)
This lush, soft and super cute blanket
The coziest sheets I’ve ever slept on!

What I’m Listening To: Feel Good Brain Candy

What are you obsessing over this fall? I would love to hear from you, so comment below or message me on Instagram!