Finding Quiet in December

Taking time during the craziest season.

December has a way of asking everything from us. And yet, what I crave most this time of year is the opposite…a slower pace that lets the season unfold rather than rush by. For me, finding quiet starts with how I dress, how I decorate my home, and the small rituals that anchor us year after year.

What I Wear This Time of Year

Holiday dressing doesn’t have to feel loud to feel special. I gravitate toward pieces that feel elevated but effortless…things I can move through my day (and night) in with ease.

For dinners and holiday gatherings, I’ve been living in the Crimson Flynn paired with the Crimson Nina Slip Skirt—simple, timeless, and festive without trying too hard. I’m also obsessed with the Penelope Skirt and Dara Top in both colors, but the chocolate has been on repeat for the holidays, styled with the Olivia Coat. The Dara Top is one of those pieces I reach for constantly because it looks just as good with trousers as it is with denim.

When the evenings slow down and we’re staying in, nothing beats comfort. The Chalet Set that just launched has quickly become my go-to for cozy nights at home.

Preparing the Home for the Season

As December arrives, I like to shift my home to feel warmer and more inviting. I layer in cozier blankets and pillows, add sheepskins where I can, and swap out candles throughout the house for holiday scents.

Telluride is burning in most rooms right now (stop in store to snag!), with Sun Valley and Ember mixed in throughout the house. I also love using the Sun Valley room spray. It instantly makes everything feel more grounded and wintery. And I’m completely obsessed with the new large Sun Valley and Aspen candles—they’re beautiful and fill a space so effortlessly.

Festive (The JK Way)

I always approach holiday decor with restraint while still being festive. I love bringing in greenery with soft pops, like with linen tree skirts and green velvet stockings…just keeping everything natural and neutral. Then I layer in a few special ornaments for warmth and personality…like our fun woodland creature ornaments that the kids love. John Derian is a constant source of inspiration when it comes to ornaments—thoughtful, artistic, and timeless.

It’s less about doing more and more about choosing well.

Traditions That Ground Us

Traditions are where the real magic lives. One of our favorites is breakfast for dinner—French toast and frittata from my first book, with hashbrowns for the kids. It’s simple, comforting, and always a hit.

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We also host a holiday dinner with gingerbread decorating for all the kids. We’ve been doing for 15 years now! Everyone looks forward to it, and it’s one of those moments that reminds me why rituals matter so much.

Little Things That Make the Season

I always have a holiday playlist playing softly in the background. My favorite cocktail this time of year is a hot toddy—tea, whiskey, lemon, and honey. And I find myself turning inward more than usual by getting cozy, staying in, drinking tea, making soups and stews, and spending time with friends and family.

December doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful. Sometimes the most beautiful moments come from slowing down enough to notice them.

Happy holidays from me and the family…animals included!

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Cooking: Pamela Salzman’s gingerbread cookies, this Italian wedding soup, Leanne Citrone’s chocolate chili, and dates with parmesan wrapped with turkey bacon.

Packing For: Ski trip to Utah with friends and family!

Loving: Long baths with Oak Essentials bath salts and oil and Restorative Face Mask and then MRB for face and body before bed.

Watching: Palm Royale and Landman.

Reading: I just finished The Vaster Wilds and The Frequency of Living Things.