What do you crave as the seasons shift?
Plus: the Jake and Jones team share their picks for the store’s Black Friday sale
Time always feels fuzzy this time of year. It starts with daylight savings — dark walks home from work and a notable chill in the air. And then once we hit Thanksgiving, the rest of the year is full of packed days that fly by.
I’m realizing part of the fuzziness is because of the inherent contradictions of the season. Yes, I'm thrilled to have a reason to reach for my wintery sweaters and hats more often, yet at the same time it can be tough to muster up the energy to even leave the cozy warm cocoon that is my home.
Seasons shift, and nature encourages us to wrap up and prepare for winter — and the holiday season. For many of us, it’s a time to rest and turn inward, while it’s also *the* moment to gather with our loved ones and celebrate.
Amid these pushes and pulls, it can be helpful to take stock of what you (and your mind/body/spirit) need this time of year — what will do you good, and what you’re craving to get you through.
This season, I personally am craving restful reflection time with my partner and family — What from this past year do we want to celebrate, meditate on, or express gratitude for? What do we hope to share and experience next year? — as well as heat-building exercise classes like zumba and hot yoga.
My Jake and Jones colleagues are on similar wavelengths.
“I’m craving cozy time at home with my partner and our families and friends,” said Darcy, general manager and assistant buyer. “Watching holiday movies, sharing meals together, hanging by the fire — all of those moments among the lights and sounds and smells of the season is what I'm craving the most.”
Marie, a sales associate, is also looking forward to family time, particularly to take a trip together out to the Channel Islands to spend a day hiking.
“We'll pack a picnic, watch for island foxes, and enjoy the stunning views and each other's company,” she said. “The ferry trip there and back is as big a treat as the hike, with dolphin pods and whale sightings every time (fingers crossed!). The chance to be immersed in nature, far from civilization, and yet so close to home — it's magical and restores my spirits every time.”
Family downtime in nature is also calling to Jen, store owner and lead buyer.
“I find this time of year to have a swirling energy that makes me crave some calmness and a sense that all is okay. I crave less social media and more nature,” she said. “We usually get to the mountains in December and that helps remind me of the important things — like the feeling I get when I am in the trees breathing fresh cold air, or the thrill I feel skiing or on the chair lift, and of course the time with my family.”
“I’m looking forward to long walks and chats with my friends,” said Dani, customer service lead. “Nothing better than a long walk to catch up.”
Jasmine, sales associate, is also craving intentional time with friends: “We plan on crafting dried orange garlands, drinking rich tea, baking, and chatting about how we want to take on the new year,” she said. “Being around positive, enriching, and nurturing people is the most inspiring way to end the year.
For Alex, director of e-commerce, this season is all about recalibrating, and relaxing with loved ones: “I’m craving a quiet, introspective period to reconnect with my values and find my inspiration and motivation again,” she said. “I’m hoping to get there through lots of cozy family time — and maybe even a good book.”
Of course this season can also be a hot shopping moment for those looking for deals on gifts. If you plan to shop for yourself or others this season, Jake and Jones will be offering a Black Friday discount (stay tuned for details).
Here’s what some of our staff is eyeing for the sale:
Alex
Cawley British Cord Robby Trouser in Light Fawn — I adore Cawley, and these perfect winter trousers. I love the rich color of this classic cord.
Cawley Curly Hair Avis Jacket in Tan — This here is a forever piece. Black Friday is the time to splurge on something spendier that you'll have forever.
Jacques Solovière Paris Eduoard Lug Grained Black — I couldn't love these shoes more. The lug sole, double stitch welt, and craftsmanship are *chef's kiss.*
Dani
Hernan Herdez ID bracelet — I love a good silver bracelet.
KasMaria Oversized Corduroy Overshirt — I love everything from KasMaria, so hard for me to choose just one thing!
&Daughter Fionn Foulard in Pale Blue — All of the colors from &Daughter are amazing!
Sandy Liang Roche Cardigan (in-store only) — So. Stinkin’. Cute!
Jen
I would snag the Cawley Curly Hair Avis Jacket in Tan or their Shell Sheepskin Jacket in Honey — or a cute pair of Martiniano Glove Shoes or Booties.
I have my eye on a few Deiji Studios pieces, like the Double V Dress in Black.
I’m also wanting the &Daughter Plain Hood in Red and their Fionn Foulard in Poppy Red.
Darcy
Lauren Manoogian Soft Rib Balaclava in Ink — I love the practicality of this piece and I've been waiting to find a balaclava that isn't itchy around my face. I'm usually really sensitive to alpaca, but this one was a breeze for me to wear. The material is stunning.
If we’re talking shoes, I’d snag either the Yuketen Wadaken Mil Spec U Tip Oxford in Black or the Jacques Solovière Paris Eduoard Lug in Grained Black (if we get them back in my size). I’ve been wanting a pair of oxfords or loafers that feel timeless. Both of these options are forever styles.
Still got my eye on this beauty, the Lemaire Maxi DB Coat in Black. Who's going to get this for me?! Everytime I put it on it's got me feelin’ cool as hell. It’s so perfectly oversized.
Zoë
Simone Rocha Slip Dress with Lace Trim in Nude — Styling it with loafers, socks, and a cardigan 🤤
B Sides Plein High Straight Jean in Van Blue — Might these be the perfect jean??? After a year of sweats I’m craving structure (and zero stretch) in my pants.
Marie
I don't think I will snag it, but I’m loving the LINDQUIST Mezzo Purse in Leather Brown for the unusual shape, construction, leather, beauty, and practicality.
Studio Bille Babett Pearl Necklace — It’s the perfect length, chunky pearls…Eye-catching without being fussy or trying too hard. I may snag this, if it's still available.
Lemaire Tibetan Trench Coat in Light Olive — So good in every way. Lots of room for a jacket underneath. Can be belted on the hips or on the waist. Great color, great fabric.
Jasmine
The right shoes can elevate any outfit! The Anne Thomas Venezia Babies in Morgex and the Anne Thomas Pavlova Boots in Nappa Guiotto have been calling my name. They are both super comfy and have the most perfect-sized and -shaped heel.
I have also been eyeing the Bare Knitwear Iris Vest in Saddle, which is so soft and the perfect coziness for the Santa Barbara fall/winter.
Cami
I’m loving all of the Takara jewelry we just got into the shop! Like this Mariner Pendant, the silver Formation Hoops, and this ring set. Gorgeous.
The new Chelsea Mak (especially this top and this dress) is also so, so pretty.
So, what are you craving this holiday season? And, if you’re planning to shop deals, what’s on your list? Let us know in the comments!
Those pics of the Channel Islands - looks like New Zealand! Happy Holidays team JJ!