A Neiman Marcus Style Expert and Two Editors Told Me What They're Buying RN

I have to admit my shopping habits this year have changed drastically. I used to shop for pieces I could wear instantly, given that I was so on-the-go as a new working mom and all. But since March, I’ve found myself in a shopping pickle: I keep only gravitating toward loungewear and things that I’ll be comfortable in at home. I realized recently how much I miss shopping for fun and exciting pieces, and that’s why I’m looking forward to the slew of products ready at Neiman Marcus so I can start drafting my wish list for what I’ll treat myself to these holidays. I’m talking about accessories that'll get me excited to dress up this winter because honestly, I think we all deserve some self-love this year.

I’m lucky to work with some of the most stylish women out there, so I reached out to both Michaela Bushkin and Kristen Nichols from Who What Wear to see what they’ll be gifting for themselves this year. Even better? I was also able to get in touch with resident Neiman Marcus style expert Sonia Minetti-Sengos, who gave me the inside scoop on her approach to self-gifting this year. See everyone’s picks here.

I consider myself lucky because I’ve been working with this gem of a human for a few years now, and I’m in on a huge secret: She’s kind of the master at selecting accessories. Michaela has a knack for choosing items that feel timeless but have a fun twist, so I’m taking cues from her list this year and adding a few of these fashion favorites to my wish list.

What are you doing for the holidays this year? How are they looking different than usual?

My family doesn’t have any specific holiday traditions, so the season looks a little different for me every year. As long as I’m spending my time relaxing with people I love, I’m a very happy girl. This year, I’m planning to spend some time in the snow for a change of scenery.

What’s the best thing about self-gifting?

The best part about self-gifting is knowing I worked really hard to buy myself something I truly love.

What makes a truly great gift?

I’ve always been an "it’s the thought that counts” type of person. No matter how big or small, I appreciate gifts that I know were carefully selected just for me.

What’s your favorite excuse to buy yourself something special?

I typically buy myself something special for important celebrations, like my birthday or a vacation.

What's #1 on your list and why?

The chic Cassette bag from Bottega Veneta is my absolute must-have (there's a reason why we feature it twice in this guide). My step-mom has been wearing Bottega Veneta bags my entire life so they have a special meaning to me. I also can’t really think of a more luxurious accessory.

Neiman Marcus resident personal stylist Sonia Minetti-Sengos is that fashion expert you want on speed dial for any shopping questions you may have. Sengos, who is based in New York, has self-gifting down to a T, and this year plans to work even harder to get everyone a self-gifting option that suits their needs. The New Yorker, who especially loves the holidays in the city, explains how she’s helping (and self-gifting) this year.

What are you doing for the holidays this year? How are they looking different than usual?

I do think that the holiday-shopping experience will be a little different this year due to COVID-19. I expect to assist clients much more virtually and privately this year than ever before, allowing them to shop any way that is most comfortable to them. In other words, the focus, unlike other years, will be to provide a holiday-shopping experience that is tailor-made for my clients while providing the highest level of service. But, after all the shopping is said and done for my clients, I do plan to enjoy and spend time with my family and friends, which, as a good Italian, most certainly will involve good food and drinks!

What’s the best thing about self-gifting?

I can sum that up with two words: incredible satisfaction. We know what makes us happy and what an incredible pleasure it is to be able to buy that item, or items, for yourself. The biggest disappointment is to hope someone gives you that one particular thing you want that you never receive. Or even having to hint at wanting something and hoping that it’s understood. Self-gifting provides immediate and amazing satisfaction.

What makes a truly great gift?

A truly great gift is one that is desired. It's something that, when you look at it, wear it, or use it, it brings you immense pleasure and joy as well as puts a huge smile on your face.

What’s your favorite excuse to buy yourself something special?

That I worked hard for it and that I deserve it. Also, if I can use it for work.

What's #1 on your list and why?

The Christian Louboutin combat boots are undoubtedly the must-have shoe of the season! It’s a cool fusion of function and fashion and the chunky lug sole is on-trend. 

Back when we were still going to the office IRL, I always looked forward to seeing Kristen’s outfit of the day. Since those days are long gone, I’m turning to my teammate to see what her picks of the season are. Her self-gifting list is super covetable, especially those flat sandals I’d wear even in the dead of winter.

What are you doing for the holidays this year? How are they looking different than usual?

I’m planning on taking a road trip to Arizona for a very small family celebration with my parents. We’ll be missing my sister and brother-in-law (and their puppy, Angus) to celebrate in-person for the holidays, but we already have a Zoom call planned.

What’s the best thing about self-gifting?

I always know exactly what to get myself.

What makes a truly great gift?

The best gifts are always the ones that show someone truly knows you by picking up on a place you’ve mentioned, something about your personality, or something you’ve talked about.

What’s your favorite excuse to buy yourself something special?

I love to commemorate special occasions by buying something for myself—whether it’s a special trip, a big birthday, or a promotion. Those special buys always bring me back to that moment.

What's #1 on your list and why?

I've had my eye on the Veronica Beard chic but rugged jacket. Whenever I add a piece to my closet, I want it to hit on the current trends but also know that I’ll have it in my closet for years and years ahead.