Your weekend reading list: 1.10.25

Plus a little packing list inspo for those of you with ski trips coming up this season!

Jan 10, 2025

Before we get into this week’s articles, I wanted to send my heartfelt condolences to everyone dealing with the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area this week. It has been absolutely horrifying to behold from afar, so I can’t imagine what it must be like for the firefighters responding to it and locals fleeing from it. So many have lost so much, and it’s not over yet. I’m sending my prayers and support to all of the brave first responders fighting the fires, those who have lost their homes and belongings, and anyone else directly impacted by this terrible tragedy.

Love,

Merritt

BUSINESS

Have you heard about the $78 Walmart "Birkin" — aka, the Wirkin? It's made by a third-party seller and has been going viral on social media! While it's currently sold out, it does paint an interesting picture about what's ahead for the retailer. Walmart has been making serious moves over the last few years including opening their Luxury Store (where they sell actual Birkins) and giving Amazon a run for their money as a platform for third-party sellers! I'll be the first to admit Walmart isn't a retailer I frequent, but it's certainly an interesting case study.

STYLE

While fall was all about rich chocolate and burgundy hues, spring and summer are poised to be a different story! If the spring/summer 2025 runway collections were any indication, we'll be seeing brighter, bolder, and more fun colors — like emerald, true red, and (a personal favorite color of mine) tangerine! I got a little taste of this citrusy shade last summer and I'm eager for more! I'm already starting to eye warm weather pieces for my wardrobe.

WELLBEING

I'm not super "woo woo" or someone who actively practices manifesting, but I do like the idea of starting the new year off with a life edit! The same way you would edit your closet by taking stock of everything in it, the same applies to your life. You metaphorically "take out" everything in your life "closet" (habits, relationships, your physical and mental space) and decide if it's a keep or a toss! I'm striving to feel more aligned and balanced in 2025, so I think this could be a really good practice to implement!

SHOPPING: COZY FINDS

Uggs are back (and just as cozy as ever!)
A classic wool jumper under $200, also love this cashmere sweater from the same brand.
Reminding myself I don't need another pair of Sambas (or do I?)
A very chic sweatshirt.
Love the collar on this cardigan under $150!
I love the color way of these neutral sneakers.
A great winter topper if you're in a milder climate!
This wool and cashmere sweatshirt with matching pants is so chic!
Love the color of this sweater dress.
Cute (and practical) water-resistant booties!
Cameron Diaz in The Holiday vibes!
A wool tee is perfect for layering in winter.
The perfect gym jacket (from one of my favorite athleisure brands).
This coat is understated and elegant!

COOKING

I almost always have a can of chickpeas in my pantry (and I'm betting a lot of you do too) so I was delighted to see these 12 easy dinners that start with a can of chickpeas! From stuffed peppers to a cold tzatziki salad to creamy chickpea pasta, it turns out there are so many ways to dress up this pantry staple. And as a bonus, chickpeas are considered nutrient-dense with a healthy dose of protein and fiber in every serving!

CULTURE

Ever wonder why so many of us say "yes" when we don't want to? If you're into psychology, you'll be fascinated by this article on compliance and how and why it's so engrained in us! It's a tendency that's reinforced throughout our lives (at school, work, and even our personal lives) so much so that saying "no" feels like swimming against a tidal wave of social conditioning. If authenticity is something you're striving for in the new year, definitely give this a read!

PACKING LIST: SKI TRIP

As ski season kicks into high gear, it’s time to think about more than just perfecting your turns down the mountain. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-timer, having the right gear is essential. Luckily, ski clothes have come a long way from bulky, unattractive layers you're desperate to get out of. Today’s ski wear combines cutting-edge technology with sleek design, ensuring that you stay warm, dry, and stylish all season long!

While I don't personally have a ski trip coming up, I know many of you do! It's always one of my most requested topics for blog posts and Instagram link requests this time of year. With that in mind, I thought I'd share a roundup of chic looks for wearing on and off the slopes! Per usual, most of the looks featured in these collages are on the more aspirational side, so you're looking for more affordable brands, below is a list of labels to peruse. Sadly, the TOPSHOP SNO line from several years back is no longer around - I bought all of my current ski gear from the collection in 2017. It was amazing quality and an even better price point!

Halfdays - I'd never heard of this brand before my google search just now, but they have an amazing array of colors and styles to choose from under $500! I'm kind of obsessed with this banana-yellow set. So unique!
Athleta - these pants are under $200 and have received amazing reviews!
ALO - I was surprised to discover ALO makes great base layers and pants!
Northface - an oldie, but a goodie. This striking down jacket + pant look would make you very easy to spot on the mountain!
Dopesnow - another brand I hadn't heard of until today, but the price points are so so good!