Once December rolls around, it’s hard to find time to think about anything other than our endless end-of-year to-do lists. With festive activities and gift buying in full swing, it’s easy to miss some of the talked-about beauty launches and fashion events happening over the holiday season.
Thankfully, the R29 team has compiled a curated list of the most exciting drops and must-see moments happening this December. For those invested in immersive fashion events, there’s one world-building exhibition we have our eye on that’s sure to fit the bill. For those who have more of an interest in luxury labels, there’s an exciting step towards sustainability from one of the most well known high-fashion e-tailers. Plus, if beauty is more your bag, we also have you covered too, with a hair product launch that is sure to turn heads.
From H&M Studio’s 10-year anniversary collection to the new Phlur scent that’s sure to sell out, here’s what the fashion and beauty world are serving up this month.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by us. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, we may earn a commission.
Net-A-Porter Launches Rental With By Rotation & Hurr
The festive season is a time to show up and show off. But for those who don’t want to add another purchase to their wardrobe, Net-A-Porter has launched an exclusive edit of rental partywear with the help of By Rotation and Hurr. From sequinned Clio Peppiatt mini dresses to feathered Oséree co-ords and Jacquemus handbags, the seasonal selection is high-fashion heaven for those looking to have a more planet-friendly party season.
Shop Net-A-Porters edit on Hurr and By Rotation
Self Portrait Open-back sequined mesh midi dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter x By RotationPhoto Courtesy of Net-A-Porter.
Rent The Runway “The Vault”
USA ONLY
The holidays are a time to show up and show off. But for those who don’t want to add another purchase to their wardrobe, Rent The Runway is providing shoppers with an exclusive edit of party wear from luxury labels just in time for your most glamorous holiday soirees. Featuring some of fashion’s most noteable names (Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen and Giambattista Valli to name a few), the curated collection is bursting with beautiful velvet gowns, silk jumpsuits and flowing floral dresses, making it the ideal selection for those wanting to make a statement this season.
Shop ‘The Vault’ On Rent The RunwayPhoto Courtesy of Rent The Runway.
H&M Studio 10-Year Anniversary Holiday Collection
H&M Studio is celebrating its 10th anniversary this December by releasing a Christmas Capsule collection. Inspired by vintage bodices and antique lingerie, the drop features tulle galore, with oxblood ballgowns and lace maxi dresses standing as some of the most maximalist designs. For those who prefer to keep things classic, the drop also includes a black baggy suit and an LBD with structured shoulders. Plus for those who like a little sparkle, there’s a range of diamanté jewels to choose from.
Shop the collection on H&M
H&M Train-Detail Gathered Mini Skirt, $, available at H&MPhoto Courtesy of H&M.
Farm Rio Ski Collection
While skiwear is something that has to be functional, that doesn’t mean it can’t also be head-turning, too. Known best for its brightly coloured frocks, Brazilian brand Farm Rio is now stepping out into skiwear — and boy, does it look good. Featuring vibrant designs covered in tropical fruits, animals and flowers, the 11-piece collection was made to make a statement on the slopes. Whether it’s the cobalt blue ski pants with neon piping or the patchwork print jumpsuit catching your eye, there’s something to suit every style-conscious snow bunny.
Shop the ski collection on Farm Rio
Farm Rio Mixed Pineapple Garden Ski Pants, $, available at Farm RioPhoto Courtesy of FARM RIO.
Rixo True Vintage Collection
Calling all vintage girlies! Inspired by its love of eras gone by, print-loving dress brand Rixo is back with another drop of hand-selected vintage pieces. Perfectly timed for gifting season, the second range includes timeless designs from brands such as YSL, Gina Bacconi and Versace. Offering dresses, jackets, skirts, tops and accessories, the prices for the 40-piece collection are set to range from £40 to £550.
Shop the True Vintage collection at Rixo (available exclusively to Rixo subscribers)
RIXO Vintage Sequin Jersey Maxi, $, available at RixoPhoto Courtesy of Rixo.
Prada Pradasphere II in Shanghai
Curated by co-creative directors Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, an immersive exhibition by Prada is inviting spectators to take a trip down memory lane. Taking place at the Start Museum in Shanghai, the show looks at the history of the legendary brand, including 400 artefacts from its fashion archives, alongside digital displays of their work across art, architecture and culture. Designed as an industrial Italian warehouse filled with lush luxury objects, the brand’s second iteration of the Prada universe is set to be a grand exploration of one of the world’s most famous fashion houses.
The Pradasphere II is available to visit until 21st JanuaryPhoto Courtesy of Prada.
Zara Haircare With Guido Palau
While Zara’s beauty line might be best known for its affordable fragrances, this winter the brand is expanding into the haircare space with the ‘Hair Holiday Set’. Starting with a statement four-piece collection, the kit aims to add some gilded glamour to your festive hairstyles with the help of a gold glitter styling spray, gel, bobby pins and a comb. Designed by industry-famous hairstylist Guido Palau, the kit is described as ‘makeup for hair’ and promises to transform even the most simple of up-do’s into a statement seasonal look (watch this space for the launch of key hair essentials in 2024).
Shop Zara HAIR at Zara
Phlur Mood Ring Eau De Parfum
Last year, the launch of Phlur’s “Missing Person” perfume sent the internet into a tailspin. Now, the viral fragrance makers are back with an all-new scent, this time with candy lovers in mind. Inspired by fruit gummies, the neon green bottle is packed with dragonfruit top notes, orange flower heart notes and sheer amber base notes, making it the perfect present for the sweet tooth in your life (even if that means buying it for yourself).
Shop Mood Ring at Selfridges and Phlur
Phlur Mood Ring eau de parfum, $, available at SelfridgesPhoto Courtesy of Phlur.
Ouai Hair Gloss
We all know about the benefits of hyaluronic acid in skincare, but how about in haircare too? The latest launch from Ouai combines the super-hydrating ingredient with nourishing rice water to help promote super shiny lengths, growth and improve overall hair health. Unlike other more traditional shine products, the gloss is designed to be used as part of your hair washing routine — but don’t worry, the formula contains sugar beets to help keep your colour protected.
Shop Hair Gloss at OUAI
Ouai Hair Gloss, $, available at SelfridgesPhoto Courtesy of Ouai.
Il Makiage Uncensored Plumping Gloss
While y2k lip plumpers may have been full of gritty glitters, the new plumping gloss from Il Makiage promises a much more sophisticated experience. Using peptides, peppermint oil and caffeine to create a nourishing and natural pillowy lip, the formula promises a hydrating smoothing finish without the stickiness. Available in five different shades (“Lights On” is our personal fave), this plumping gloss goes way beyond tingles to give you the perfect peppermint pout.
Shop Uncensored Plumping Gloss at Il Makiage
Il Makiage Uncensored Lip Plumping Gloss, $, available at Il MakiagePhoto Courtesy of Il Makiage.
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