Mimi Takes Five - #381

ONE // Advent Book

I'm no stranger to advent calendars but I must say, the advent book is such a great idea! The concept is simple, each chapter is individually wrapped and you open one a day to read it. It prevents binge reading and forces you to savour the story. I also love that it's something other than a daily edible treat. I'm clearly a fan of that type of advent calendar (see last week's post) but this one makes the fun last. You get to enjoy your little treat for as long as it takes you to read your chapter. It forces you to take a little break and get some alone time. Turn it into a whole moment by steeping a cup of tea, turning on the fireplace and snuggling up with your advent book every night. I mean, it's the gift of slowing down during the busy, hectic season to savour quiet little moments. Again, I think this concept is genius and I've got my advent book ready to go!

TWO // Satin Midi Skirt

Well, I finally decided to try out the satin midi skirt. I'm a pleated midi skirt lover through and through, but thought I'd give this silhouette a try. I opted for this deep plum one from Old Navy and it is stunning! Truthfully, I didn't have high hopes but it's such a great piece! I'm loving the rich, deep plum hue because it's giving sophistication. I also wanted a colour that I didn't have in a pleated skirt already, no easy feat. I've already worn it twice and see myself reaching for it over and over during the holiday season and beyond. This is a must in your winter wardrobe - it's a perfect everyday option paired with a sweater but can be dressed up with a blazer for work or a glittery top for a night out. It's definitely versatile!

THREE // Tartan Scarf

I got this classic tartan scarf for Christmas years ago yet it's still one I turn to every festive season. It's timeless and classic, really. A tartan scarf is a very simple way of making even the most basic outfit festive. I also love that the different thread colours means it can match with a variety of coats. I wear this one with red, green, black and camel coats. It even works very well with black or navy for a more subtle, sophisticated take. I have a selection of tartan scarves, but this is probably my most classic and I find myself reaching for it the most. A quality tartan scarf would make an ideal Christmas gift for a special someone or even for yourself. It's a tried and true accessory!

FOUR // Quality Chocolates

I'm a big fan of the Quality Street chocolates come the holidays. I think I might even be a bigger fan of the hexagonal tins they come in! I've amassed a small collection and my husband said I couldn't keep anymore unless I culled my stash. To be fair, they make the best cookie tins for all my holiday baking so I actually use them. Anyways, message received. I decided we'd go to Bulk Barn to refill one of my many tins for the season. I love this refill option because I get to select my favourites. Actually, I just avoid one or two flavours because I genuinely love this chocolate mix. It's not the cheapest option but it's less wasteful one and I think I get more for my money this way. All set for the holidays now!

FIVE // Alma Mater Merch

I have been wanting to get a sweatshirt from my alma mater for so long now. I had gotten a sweatshirt back in the day, during my school years but that was one of the many fire casualties in 2016... I was not in a rush to replace it, but lately I'd been wanting to. Seeing as I still work on campus it was easy to pop into the campus store and have a peek at the offerings. I was looking for a simple design with the logo and a hoodie in a school colour. Turns out that was not easy to find because there is an abundance of options. I was really hoping for a burgundy hoodie, but settled on the grey one because it was the only option with an embroidered logo. Luckily, I found one that fit! I've worn it so many times already and it's the perfect cozy thing to throw on with leggings on the weekend. I'm still hoping for a burgundy option but I'll have to keep checking the new arrivals. Perhaps there will be new stock before Christmas.