5 Beauty Brands Every Skincare Newbie Needs to Know

There are a LOT of skincare brands and products out there. Finding the right products that work for your skin is tough enough, but it gets even more complicated, y’all: Beyond what you’re buying, though, is how you’re using it — we’re talking about your skincare routine. You have to consider the order in which you apply these products, your application technique (to pat on products or not to pat? *That* is the question!) and if any of them react with each other. If you’re a skincare newbie, all of these factors might it seem too fussy to start a dedicated skincare practice, especially if you’re the kind of girl who only has five minutes to spare in the morning and at night. But trust us: A bar of soap won’t get the job done. To show you that zeroing in on your perfect-fit skincare routine doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task, we’re sharing five of our favorite beauty brands that have beginner-friendly skincare products — think: sets designed to take you from start to finish in the most simple ways possible. Here are some of the easiest ways you can start taking care of your skin.

If You’re a Lazy Girl, Try This Skincare Brand

For lazy girls, double-duty products are key to sticking to a dedicated skincare routine; they save time (and let us press that snooze button over and over). That’s what you’ll get with Glossier. This brand is all about bringing skincare essentials — products to cleanse, hydrate, prime and perfect your skin — to those of us who want a no-frills routine. Our favorite Glossier products are all included in the Glossier Phase 1 Set ($80), a package deal that’ll arm you with everything you need to embark on this new skincare journey. Its brand new Milky Jelly Cleanser ($18) will remove your makeup as it cleanses and smoothes the skin at the same time, which you can follow up with the two-in-one Priming Moisturizer ($25), both allowing you to fly through your routine in a flash. Then comes the makeup: a lightweight Perfecting Skin Tint ($26) and their cult favorite Balm Dotcom ($12), a beauty Swiss Army Knife that can be applied to your brows, your cheekbones, your lips and your cuticles.

IF YOU’RE A DIY GIRL, TRY THIS SKINCARE BRAND

There’s nothing like figuring out your skin’s perfect combo of products, especially if you’re the genius who mixed ’em up yourself. S.W. Basics speaks to your inner DIY fanatic by letting you mix, match and DIY all the products in their Full DIY Skincare Essentials Set ($130). With this kit, you’ll be able to figure out which combos give you flawless skin — straight up priceless knowledge to be armed with as you progress on your adventure in skincare. Oh, and don’t worry about mixing up the wrong products or adding too much of this or that: This Brooklyn-based skincare company made the whole DIY skincare thing simple for you thanks to their (adorable!) DIY Mix ‘N Match Poster ($20) that takes all the guesswork out of the equation. You can (and should) get creative with this set and think about what your skin needs. Have dry skin? Add sea salt to shea butter to sough it off. Want to tighten pores on the fly? Create a sweet smelling toner by mixing the lavender spray and the witch hazel distillate. Need a mid-day refresh? Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the rosewater spray for a powerful face mist. So many options.

IF YOU’RE A MINIMALIST GIRL, TRY THIS SKINCARE BRAND

Meow Meow Tweet is for those who have a “less is more” approach to life and skincare. This brand offers vegan and organic skincare products, so you can be sure the ingredients won’t be harsh on your skin. In fact, many of their products feature less than 10 ingredients — even some with less than five! This brand has made it easy to jumpstart a minimalist routine by packaging together four essentials in their Facial Kit ($84). Kick it off with the gentle Face Cleanser ($25) to clean your pores and smooth your skin without irritation. A couple times a week, follow up cleansing with their Face Exfoliant ($20) so that dull skin is scrubbed away completely. Spritz on the Face Toner ($24) to tone skin and clean up any residual grit and grime on your face. Then, hydrate with the brand’s Face Oil ($25) and let it sink in overnight — you’ll wake up with super glowy, healthy skin in the morning.

IF YOU’RE AN ALL-NATURAL GIRL, TRY THIS SKINCARE BRAND

Not all natural skincare lines are created equal, y’all, so it’s important to do your research if you’re super dedicated to green beauty to find a line that aligns with what’s important to you. That said, we might have found a one-brand-fits-all option: Tata Harper. This brand is 100% natural and focused on intense hydration, which is important to consider during these cold winter months when our skin is parched! Full disclosure: These products aren’t cheap, but are top-notch as far as eco-beauty babes are concerned. If it’s worth the investment, s=tart by cleansing your skin with their Nourishing Oil Cleanser ($64) so you can gently remove your makeup and keep your skin super smooth — this product is a solid choice for sensitive skin too. After cleansing, follow up with Hydrating Floral Essence ($65) which acts as a light toner and hydrates the skin with a nice scent. Finish your routine off with the Reparative Moisturizer ($100) which will straight up transform dry skin into lovely suppleness we’re all after.

IF YOU’RE A GIRL ON-THE-GO, TRY THIS SKINCARE BRAND

Sometimes, we don’t have a ton of time to devote to our skincare routine, which is totally understandable. That’s where skincare products that work their magic overnight come into play, especially for those of us who are constantly wishing we had five extra minutes in the day. First Aid Beauty’s line has a couple of products that’ll get you through your skincare routine *faster*: You put them on before bed and will have you waking up with seriously luminous skin. It’s the equivalent of packing your lunch the night before — wake up and GO! Give the Facial Radiance Overnight Mask ($38) a try if you want brighter and more even-toned skin as you ZzzzZZz — it’s great for those who want the benefits of a deep mask but don’t have time or patience to sit around waiting for it to dry. After you’ve masked it up, slather on the Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Sleeping Cream ($38) before you hit the hay. You’ll want to jump out of bed in the morning to check out your moisturized skin that, with continued use, will also be firmer and healthier overall.

Tweet us @britandco your favorite skincare brands!

Listen — I'm always looking for a reason to get new party dresses, and the holiday season gives PLENTY of reason alone. We've got sequins and velvet on our brains, but we want everyone to look — and feel! — their best. So, here are some of the best plus size options because there's so many stylish pieces out there that deserve to be highlighted. From mini to maxi, these 15 plus size dresses are going to make someone jealous during the holiday party you're attending.

Sequin Plus Size Dresses 

Target

Eloquii Mini Cowl Sequin Dress

Whoo, you'll be one hot mama in this pink sequin dress! It's worth noting that sequins and the holidays go together like hot chocolate and winter, so this is our way of saying this dress deserves a spot in your closet.

Torrid

Torrid Mini Sequin Mesh Dress

Want to go a little shorter and vibrant without going the pink route? Feast your eyes on this mini dress! It's designed to hug your curves and give you your own personalized version of Jessica Rabbit's dress. Don't lie — we know you've always wanted to wear something sultry like she did in Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

Boohoo

Boohoo Sequin Wrap Dress

As always, leopard print remains the easiest fall/winter trend that anyone can wear. We never thought we'd see it in sequin form, but we've immediately fallen in love with this wrap dress. You can keep the rest of your accessories simple because it's sure to make a statement!

Macy's

Macy's Kiyonna Starry Sequined Lace Dress

Have a winter wedding to attend and want to wear something that feels black-tie without distracting from the bride (huge faux pas)? Dance your way into this sequined lace dress that has — gasp! — pockets!

PrettyLittleThing

PrettyLittleThing Asymmetric Sequin Maxi Dress

OR, wear this form-fitting maxi dress that is as sleek as it's sexy. It's bound to make you walk with your head held high and when paired with a pair of sexy stilettos? Whew, our hearts go out to the ex that happens to see you at the wedding reception.

Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant Lurex Shimmer Dress

Not all holiday parties are meant for you to expel an intoxicating amount of sex appeal. If you're attending a family-friendly event, keep it very demure with with this shimmer dress. It has a silhouette that'll flatter your frame and pockets in case you don't feel like carrying a clutch or wristlet.

Midi Plus Size Dresses 

BloomChic

BloomChic Velvet Ruched Midi Dress

Skip the sequins and drape your body in this velvet ruched midi dress. This luxe emerald shade will immediately make you luxurious along with a pair of jewel-encrusted heels.

Eloquii

Eloquii Lurex Midi Dress

This dress is making us blush because it's so pretty. All you have to do is pull it over your head and shoulders without fretting over a back zipper. It has an elastic waist so you'll have room to breathe even though your waist may look cinched in.

ASOS

ASOS DESIGN Velvet Midi Dress

Still want to wear something that gives you a little more breathing room? Wear this deep burgundy dress instead. It's the color of the season and comes with an asymmetrical neckline that's hard to ignore.

Amazon

SCOMCHIC Short Sleeve Wrap Dress

Love burgundy, but can't stand velvet? This dress will give you everything you're comfortable with. It doesn't feature a pesky zipper and feels lightweight. It'll look like you're floating on the tides of Christmas if you choose to wear it to your family's annual winter party.

JCPenney

Jessica Howard Sweater Dress

Sweater dresses can be worn to parties, especially if they look like this! The red color is the perfect shade for Christmas gatherings and the flouncy hemline makes it the perfect piece to dress up or down. Just add your footwear of choice and you'll be good to go!

Maxi Plus Size Dresses 

Ashley Stewart

Ashley Stewart Hi Low Lurex Mermaid Gown

Excited to bring your S.O. or plus-one along with you to job's holiday party? You have to show up in this mermaid gown. The color alone is fit for a queen, meaning it'll automatically make you look regal. Isn't that what getting dressed up for holiday parties are all about?

Forever21

Forever21 Tiered Tie-Strap Maxi Dress

Honestly, this dress could serve as the perfect wedding reception option too, but you're more than welcome to wear it to a holiday party! The tiered hem gives it a playful appeal while the color balances that with chicness.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Fleur Strapless Satin Maxi Dress

Take a break from sequins and velvet by wearing satin. It's the kind of fabric that immediately elevates any look which is why we're adding something similar to our winter wardrobe.

City Chic

City Chic Forbidden Love Maxi Dress

Not ready to part ways with summer's bardot trend? We hear ya and agree that you shouldn't have to when plus size party dresses like this exist. Known as the 'Forbidden Love' dress, it may make someone fall in love with you once they spot you wearing it from across the room.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Traditional red and green decor will always have its charm, but can sometimes fall dangerously close into tacky territory. If you're craving a fresher look this season, we've rounded up holiday decor in the trendiest colors. From earthy neutrals to muted rainbows and every shade of red beyond Santa's suit, these holiday decor finds are here make your home feel extra merry and bright.

Fuschia Accents

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Satin Bow Garland

Give your holiday decor an edgy twist with a bold, vibrant hue like fuchsia. Pair it with metallics for a luxe look, or mix it with jewel tones like emerald and sapphire for a rich and elegant vibe.

Gather Goods

Gather Goods Linen Cloth Napkins, Set of 2

50 Shades of Red

Etsy

Etsy Handmade Decorations

Embrace deep, on-trend hues like scarlet, burgundy, and Bordeaux in your holiday decor. These rich shades pair beautifully with golds, greens, and creams, perfect for creating a cozy, elegant aesthetic.

Earthy Neutrals

West Elm

West Elm Flocked Ball Ornaments, Set of 9

Bring a calming, natural vibe to your holiday decor with earthy neutrals. Soft shades like taupe, earthy greens and reds, and warm ivory add a subtle elegance and blend well with organic materials like wood, linen, and greenery.

Mid-Century Whimsy

Schoolhouse

Swiss Scallop Stocking

Feeling nostalgic? Go with whimsical colors inspired by mid-century design and heirloom aesthetic. Think vibrant teals, cheerful yellows, and retro pinks that add playful nostalgia to your space. Mixing these hues with vintage ornaments and quirky accents creates a joyful, unique look.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Bon Bon Napkin Rings, Set of 4

Muted Rainbow 

Target

Meri Meri Rainbow Table Candles

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Mini Ornament Wreath

We've transformed our popular mini ornament set into a cheerful wreath, brimming with festive holiday color.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This year, you could break out the same old decorations you’ve relied on. Or, you could spice things up with some quirky Christmas decor and add a unique touch of fun to the season. And boy, do we have some fun picks, from goofy light fixtures to inflatable outdoor decor to baubles and ornaments, that are good for more than a few laughs. There are even some DIY products you can work on with loved ones to make this Christmas and those to come even more personal. So whether you plan to host a festive event this year or simply spend time with family, you’ll find no shortage of decorations and elements to bring out the joy of the season.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Prextex Winter Textured Snow Spray Ensures a White Christmas

Amazon

Best-selling Prextex winter textured snow spray can bring the winter weather indoors without any of the chills. This set of two should ensure you can coat your tree and other decorations with a hearty coating of the white stuff.

See it on Amazon

These Christmas Can Cooler Sleeves Enhance the Party

Amazon

While they aren’t big light displays, these Christmas can cooler sleeves can nonetheless help tie together your holiday events to come. Each sleeve in this pack of a dozen sports a message and color befitting the cheerful mood of the season.

See it on Amazon

This Festive Grinch Neon Sign Is Naughty and Nice

Amazon

Neon signs are a bright and fun way to celebrate just about anything, Christmas included. So when your guests see this Grinch neon sign, Santa hat and all, it’s sure to crack a few smiles among them.

See it on Amazon

Disco Ball String Lights Really Pop

Amazon

These disco ball string lights are an atypical take on a classic holiday decorative element. However, you may end up liking them a lot more for their funky and reflective appearance, especially given they come in multiple color options like silver, rose gold, and multicolor.

See it on Amazon

These Snowman String Lights Are Merry and Bright

Amazon

Snowman string lights make for a cute and seasonal enhancement to your holiday setup. They’re a classic symbol that you can use to adorn your tree or line up around the windows.

See it on Amazon

Hang Up Some Zany Flamingo String Lights

Amazon

Naturally, one of the animals that comes to mind during the winter season is the flamingo. Okay, that’s not true, but that doesn’t detract from these goofy flamingo string lights. Try out a set if you’re aiming for a “pink” Christmas rather than a white one.

See it on Amazon

These Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Are Ideal For Christmas and Beyond

Amazon

Most outdoor lighting, as far as Christmas is concerned, is meant to eventually be taken down. Govee permanent outdoor lights are quite the opposite if the name didn’t clue you in. Once installed, you can rely on these year-round, changing their colors and selecting from color-changing modes for festive displays via your phone or smart home assistant.

See it on Amazon

Watch Flakes Fall Via Christmas Projector Lights

Amazon

Whether or not it’s a white Christmas this year for you, these Christmas projector lights can at least simulate the snowfall. Once you set up yours outside, larger-than-life snowflakes will drift down the front of your home for all to see.

See it on Amazon

Some Flameless LED Candles Are a Twinkling Addition

Amazon

These flameless LED candles have an extra Christmasey twist by way of additional string lights around each candle. On top of that, like other flameless candles, these negate the need for open flames as a part of your holiday-themed decor, conveniently working instead via remote.

See it on Amazon

Celebrate With Some Coffee and Beverage Ornaments

Amazon

If caffeine is more than just a friend, celebrate it this year by hanging one or a few of these coffee and beverage ornaments. Featured are a coffee machine, a pumpkin spice latte, a coffee pot, and more fun depictions. There are even other drinks like boba and an ICEE slushy.

See it on Amazon

This Ramen Noodle Cup Ornament Pays Homage to the Quick Snack

Amazon

For some of us, ramen noodles helped us get through hard times, such as the college grind. This ramen noodle cup ornament is an homage to this delicious quick snack. You and your loved ones will likely get a chuckle out of seeing this on your tree.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Friendly Bob Ross "Happy Little Christmas" Ornament

Amazon

The late painter Bob Ross is an icon of kindness and dedication to one’s craft. So, of course, he deserves a spot on your tree in the form of this Bob Ross "Happy Little Christmas" ornament. Just look at that impressive afro.

See it on Amazon

Tee Off the Holidays By Hanging a Golf Cart with Wreath Ornament

Amazon

Even if golf isn’t your favorite sport, you have to admit the cuteness level of this golf cart with wreath ornament is off the charts. Available in several colors, this tiny cart features a wreath on the hood and string lights around the roof, about as festive as it can get.

See it on Amazon

These Lollipop Ornaments Are Mouth-Watering Decorations

Amazon

These vibrant lollipop ornaments can add more than a little color to your Christmas tree this year. Each one is a different shape, taking delicious-looking forms that you’ll have to warn your kids not to try to eat.

See it on Amazon

DIY Clear Baubles Are a Fun Project that Pays Off

Amazon

The creative potential for these DIY clear baubles is, well, clear. This pack comes with 20 spheres for you to fill up as you please, making them a fun pre-Christmas project for the family that will go on display the morning of.

See it on Amazon

This Crashing Reindeer Animated Decoration Is Hilarious

Amazon

This animatronic crashing reindeer animated decoration implies one of Santa’s reindeer went off course and crash-landed right into your window. While active, this decoration kicks its legs, giving life to the comedic mishap.

See it on Amazon

Winterize Your Banister Thanks to a Penguin Stairway Decoration

Amazon

Not only is a penguin stairway decoration adorable, but it’s thoroughly festive, too. With one on your banister, you can enjoy an indoor snowy display that can even be lit up thanks to included string lights.

See it on Amazon

Lay Down a Tasty Looking Christmas Beaded Table Runner

Amazon

Although this product comes in other themes like autumn, Halloween, and more, we’re here to highlight the Christmas beaded table runner. This jolly smattering of peppermint candies can bring a quirky splash of color to your dinner table. Or, of course, you can opt for the more traditional selection that’s bordered with holly.

See it on Amazon

This Christmas-Themed Bathroom Decor Set Is Outrageous

Amazon

In your household, nobody should be able to escape the holiday cheer, not even in the bathroom. Because when they go, they’ll encounter this Christmas-themed bathroom decor set. From the toilet seat and tank cover to the tissue box holder to the floor mat and hand towel, every “go” will be a festive activity.

See it on Amazon

Step Onto a Fun Christmas Bathroom Rug

Amazon

This Christmas bathroom rug is a tasteful way to throw down some holiday colors where visitors may not expect them. You can either opt for the tree design or a friendly Santa face, as well as a funky pink Santa, if you like to mix things up.

See it on Amazon

Set Up a Festive and Vibrant Christmas Cat Tree Tower

Amazon

When you pick up a Christmas cat tree tower in its smaller or larger variety, you invite your feline friends to celebrate with you. This tower is covered in spots for lounging, stretching out, and playing. Its green, white, and red colors will be a great addition to your decorations.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy The Elaborate Colors Of Govee Curtain Lights

Amazon

Govee curtain lights are one of the more elaborate smart lighting systems you can use all year long. They can turn a whole wall or window of your home into a light show, featuring extensive customizability and dynamic scenes for celebrating the holidays.

See it on Amazon

Find Solace in Some Adorable Emotional Support Gingerbread

Amazon

After the hardships of this year, you could use some support. Namely, from some delightful emotional support gingerbread. This plush basket of equally plushy cookies features five gingerbread people that you can play with or leave on display for the holidays.

See it on Amazon

These Christmas Gnomes Are Charming Companions

Amazon

Some people put up Santas and reindeer as decor, but you might opt for these more “out there” Christmas gnomes. They come fit with red and white hats, as well as the characteristic beards one might expect from the creatures.

See it on Amazon

These Merry Christmas Party Decorations Cost Little But Add a Lot

Amazon

This 12-piece pack of merry Christmas party decorations is a surefire way to add some color to your decoration setup without a big price tag. And they’re available in multiple other color schemes if you’re aiming for a less typical palette for your party.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Build a Snowman Kit With the Fam

Amazon

In the spirit of coming together and decorating alike, build snowman kits seems fitting of both themes. Within this set is enough for building up to nine custom snowmen, fit with winter gear and tophats.

See it on Amazon

The Kids Will Dig This DIY Lighted Felt Christmas Tree

Amazon

For the younger audiences that you may not trust with the more delicate decorations, consider picking up a DIY lighted felt Christmas tree. It comes with 33 ornaments for kids to attach on their own, as well as attachable string lights and a snowman advent calendar.

See it on Amazon

A Women’s Light Up Christmas Sweater Will Win You the Ugly Sweater Contest

Amazon

Ugly sweaters have made their way into tradition, and we’re here for it. And there are plenty to choose from among this selection of light up Christmas sweaters. Not only do each of these sweaters feature wacky designs, but every one has built-in lighting that takes the gag to new heights.

See it on Amazon

Check Out This Wacky Men's Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Amazon

Dressing up like a doofus has never been quite as easy as wearing one of these Men's ugly Christmas sweaters. They’re festive, they’re wacky, and they’re guaranteed to liven up the party with options that make you look like a decorated tree or proudly display some wacky holiday messages.

See it on Amazon

Don a Warm and Jovial Knitted Christmas Hat

Amazon

Not even the top of your head is safe from the festive spirit when there are options like these knitted Christmas hats out there. One style sports a decorated tree with a white pompom on the end, while the other outfits your head with a Santa hat and full beard.

See it on Amazon

Santa Beard Masks Come With Festive Facial Hair

Amazon

If you’re aiming to balance health concerns with holiday cheer, you’ll want to look into this pair of Santa beard masks. They can cover up your mouth while sporting magnificent beards that would make the merry North Pole dweller proud.

See it on Amazon

Watch Your Pet Trot Around in a Santa Dog Costume

Amazon

Whatever size your dog may be, there should be a Santa dog costume that fits them snugly. Turn your pup into a mighty steed for Santa Claus, featuring the man himself or a snowman riding atop your dog’s back in multiple styles and patterns.

See it on Amazon

Keep Warm by This Electric Fireplace Heater

Amazon

While the visual aspect of this electric fireplace heater alone is enough to enhance the holiday aesthetic, this device also serves a practical purpose. With the included remote, you can activate this faux fireplace to keep the nearby space warm, letting you cuddle up by the fireplace without the need for flames.

See it on Amazon

Light Up a Christmas Leg Lamp as a Fun Movie Reference

Amazon

The spitting image of its counterpart from the movie A Christmas Story, this Christmas leg lamp is a gag that is just as funny today as it was back then. In fact, you could put it in your front window for onlookers to admire.

See it on Amazon

Celebrate With a Humerous Outdoor Christmas Inflatable

Amazon

Your outdoor decor simply won’t be complete without one of these wacky outdoor Christmas inflatables. Each is funnier than the last, from Santa riding a dinosaur to a family of polar bears to the jolly man having a wardrobe malfunction while climbing up a ladder.

See it on Amazon

Christmas Window Stickers Feature Multiple Funky Sets

Amazon

With some traditional options and some zany ones, a pack of Christmas window stickers could be the finishing touch for the decorations you were looking for. Our favorite set features black cats adorned with festive lights, but there are also styles with reindeer, gnomes, and more.

See it on Amazon

Hang This Welcoming Christmas Jack Skellington Door Sign

Amazon

"The Nightmare Before Christmas" is a celebrated mashup of two favorite holidays. So if the film has a special place in your heart, you can celebrate it with this Christmas Jack Skellington door sign.

See it on Amazon