December 7th, 2025
On My Radar
Bits & Bobs
Books are my favorite present to give and, especially, to receive. This LL Bean tote is an ideal gift bag. Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico and Harper Lee’s The Land of Sweet Forever are atop the stack next to my bed. I’m obsessed with the hair in look 11 from the Gucci Pre-Fall 2026 collection images, my 2026 hair goal. Joachim Trier’s film Sentimental Value looks so good I will go to a theater to see it. Despite the mediocre reviews of The Neighbourhood’s new album, Ultra Sound, their songs Hula Girl and Private are terrific. And, I hope Santa will bring me a really nice coffee cup for my drive back and forth to the city.
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Sentimental Value is fabulous!! I think more people need to go to the movies! It’s sad that one by one society is loosing places where to find mutual interests. No wonder people are lonely!!
I love the coffee cup! That handsome, durable, stainless to-go cup will add civility to your commute. I can vouch for Christofle’s silver plated thermos for keeping coffee hot at home.
Getting away from plastic as much as possible is a good way to start the year.
You must do the hair in the Gucci collection – it will be fabulous! A personal tidbit – my husband was born and raised in Monroeville Alabama, Harper’s hometown, which also served as the inspiration for Maycomb in ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’. Truman developed his friendship with Lee there. There is a stage adaption of ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ performed yearly on the grounds of the Old Courthouse Museum. It is truly a treat. tokillamockingbird.com
Preston, I recently purchased two items that were featured on your site some years ago but at the time were out of my budget. Lucky for me, both were on sale this year, and I snapped them up right away. Their quality is unmatched. I wanted to thank you for helping me develop a philosophy of conscious consumption, which is that great clothes are worth waiting for, and they never go out of style, really.
What a nice comment, thank you. xp
Preston you always have suggestion on elegant picks on fashion (of course), books, Paris stays etc….. love your blog. Much happiness…the happiest holidays to you and family. M
There is an Icelandic tradition titled ‘Jolabokaflod’ where families exchange new books as gifts on Christmas Eve and spend the night reading them together, often with hot chocolate, creating a cozy, story-filled evening.
For many people in my life (including the kids), I am gifting a thoughtful book recommendation and some delicious chocolate. I’ve been a bit overwhelmed by all of the “stuff” that comes with the holidays, but books and chocolate are always welcome.
Adding ‘Perfection’ to my reading list!
That is beautiful, Marcheline. Same feelings about so much “stuff”. Can’t imagine a better gift than chocolates and books!