Gift Guide: Nesting
If you’re hibernating this winter, or just planning a lazy weekend, here are some of our favorite products that encourage coziness
If you’re hibernating in the dreary middle of winter (or staying indoors to escape the heat elsewhere in the world), a weekend or two indoors, focused on self-care, rest and relaxation, is essential every now and then. Whether you’re reading, binging on Netflix, watching classic movies, or soaking in the tub, the act of doing “nothing” is actually something—especially if you feel recharged and refreshed afterwards. From records to listen to while applying a face mask to cozy robes to lounge around in and books to devour over your coffee, we have selected some of our favorite products that make nesting especially pleasurable.
Welcome to the Universe
Co-authored by Michael Strauss (a professor of astrophysics at Princeton University), J. Richard Gott (professor of astrophysical sciences at Princeton University) and Neil Degrasse Tyson (astrophysicist, cosmologist and Director of the Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space), this book about space has some star-power behind it. “Welcome To The Universe” ($30) is an introduction to astronomy, but in no way is it dumbed down—rather, readers will feel like they’re understanding the impossible. Covering questions about intelligent life, black holes, worm holes and time travel, this book feels almost as infinite as the universe itself.
Unisex Organic Cotton Waffle Robe
Robes tend to reflect a justifiable luxury: they keep you warm and comfy post-shower or whenever you need a little coziness. Here, Coyuchi updates the classic unisex spa robe ($98) with an airy waffle pattern. Crafted from fine organic cotton, the robe comes in both gray and Alpine white colorways. Additionally, it’s washing-machine safe.
Stay Home Club T-Shirt
For introverts, homebodies and those with hangovers, this Stay Home Club T-shirt ($20) says it all so you don’t have to. Designed by Olivia Mew, the white top is made in the USA and printed in Canada, with pale blue lettering and navy cuffs and crewneck. Available in extra-small to double-XL, the T-shirt is unisex but keep in mind it’s a slim fit.
WWA Pillow
With pop culture—and vegetation—references aplenty, BFGF’s WWA pillow ($80) casts contemporary charm alongside its plush comfort. Jacquard-woven with black backing, this cushion measures in at 17″ x 17″. Some of the visuals, including Lisa Simpson and the Nike swoosh, are regulars on Lilian Martinez’s art-based design brand—and they’re quite welcome here.
Sapira Mattress
Made by Leesa, the Sapira (from $875) is a one-type-fits-all mattress offering genuine comfort. Its blend of pocket springs and high-performance foams (all 100% American-made) means that it’s not too firm, but also doesn’t leave you sinking into the bed. There’s even a top layer that allows for air flow for those who run hot at night. Available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king and California king options, everybody’s needs are met. The company donates one mattress for every 10 sold, and also partners with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant one tree for every mattress sold.
Navy Silk Pajamas
Several steps up from your regular cotton T-shirt and underwear, Olivia von Halle’s sleepwear and robes are luxurious. With pretty prices to match, her 100% silk pajamas ($350) are divine—with colorways and patterns aplenty. Our pick is the classic navy blue, which is sophisticated and—for those klutzes among us—will hide coffee stains more easily than white.
Ghost Candle Holder
Copenhagen’s Studio Arhoj are masters at combining minimal design with cute characters to create homewares you actually want on display. Spooky but sweet, their ghost candle-holders (€34) are hand-cast and glazed in transparent porcelain and add warm light to any room. Note that they aren’t safe for kids because the porcelain gets super-hot if you leave a candle burning inside.
Zadar Throw Blanket
When extended to its full five feet length, two things become evident about textile artist Savannah Hayes’ Zadar Throw Blanket ($178). First, the bold graphic patterning is balanced (in this instance) by the subtle pewter and white coloration and the light blue accent. Second, it’s a product made to be used—crafted from cotton and polyester to encourage warmth when it’s needed. Hayes’ eponymous brand is only a year old, but the Zadar Throw Blanket (and her array of other graphic textiles) have us excited for what’s to come.
Merino Eye Mask
Made from ultra-fine, 100% merino wool, this eye mask ($49) is super-soft and comfortable. It fits snugly on your head with a knitted headband (also merino wool) to avoid sleep interruption. This mask works better than those made from unnatural fabrics as it’s breathable, an asset that prevents wearers from overheating while using it.
Kishi Bashi: Sonderlust
Still one of our favorite records from 2016, Kishi Bashi’s Sonderlust ($18) is beautifully uplifting despite its pathos. Deeply personal and yet universally relatable, the record features all the sparkle we’ve grown to expect and adore from the singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist—a tremendous blend of melancholy and joyful luminescence. And, with production help from Grizzly Bear’s Chris Taylor, this is one of Kishi Bashi’s best albums thus far.
Images courtesy of respective brands
