Editor’s Picks: November

Listen, in this day and age, connection is key. Especially when it comes to our kids. But, a lot of us aren’t ready for our young kiddos to have phones, regardless of how long they’ve been begging for one. A good quality smart watch is the answer for any family in that in between stage. We like the Verizon Gizmo 3 watch because it’s affordable, allows only parent-approved contacts, and features location and emergency services. But, it can’t access internet content, so your kids will be safe from too much exposure. Look out for sales and promotions throughout the holiday season.

Can I just say that I’m obsessed with the Vita Isola Nicole Fringe Clutch Bag. I got it about a month ago and I’ve already worn it out a couple of times and just packed it for an upcoming trip. Vita Isola handbags are made from super-soft leather and crafted in Spain, and offer the perfect balance of true style and functionality. The Nicole bag can be dressed up or down and can be worn three ways — as a clutch, a shoulder bag, or a crossbody bag  — and features two different styles of straps. Plus, it features multiple interior pockets to keep all your essentials organized and secure without being bulky. But literally all their bags are awesome, so take your pick.

We know, we know. Another celebrity-owned brand, but we really do love the skin care line by Sweet July, founded by influencer, entrepreneur, mom of four, and wife of NBA superstar, Steph Curry. The ingredients are inspired by Ayesha’s Caribbean heritage and they are all vegan, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and basically free of anything that could be harmful to your skin or your wellbeing. The Essentials Set is a great way to give the line a try. Or, you could buy one set and break it up as stocking stuffers or to gift to co-workers, teachers, etc.

As an avid traveler, I’ve become a huge fan of Olukai shoes. They are so comfortable! I literally wore them all around Venice walking 10+ miles a day for a week and they were the most comfy and versatile shoe I brought with me. When I saw the Olukai Papakū ‘Ili boots I instantly knew I had to grab a pair for my husband. In fact, he already has a pair of their slip-ons and packs them every time we pack them to travel to a warm-weather destination, so I know he’ll love these too. They’re made of waterproof leather and feature a cozy quilted lining to keep feet warm and toasty.

If you want to make sure your kiddo doesn’t spend all of winter break zoning out in front of a screen, get them a Clixo set. Clixo makes magnetic building sets that truly inspire kids — and adults — to get creative. Kids can click any number of colorful pieces to create 2D and 3D structures. Both free play and themed sets are available, including a dinosaur pack, a tropical birds pack, and even a jewelry pack. Clixo has also created a series of video challenges demonstrating various builds that kids can recreate.

Whether you have a skin care obsessed tween or teen or need a unique but affordable gift for a colleague or associate, this Kikumasamune: Japanese Sake Skin Cream is a really fun option. It has a thick, rich feel for long-lasting hydration, and it’s infused with real  junmai ginjo sake, which is full of amino acids. Serious, this would even be a great conversation starter at your office white elephant party.

My kids have long-loved Posca markers. They’ve been a viral item for a few years now as lots of artsy creators use them on YouTube and TikTok. But, beyond their viral fame, Posca Markers are really good quality and long-lasting paint markers. They come in 55 colors and sets of varying sizes and prices. They can be used on all different types of surfaces including glass, plastic, fabric, cardboard, etc., so kids can do everything from draw with them to customize their own shoes and clothes.