As the holidays roll through, spending time with friends in Upstate New York is where I’ll be. Oversized knits, mulled wine, roast dinners and endless stories by an open fire will keep us warm from the minus temps outside.

Escaping …
Woodstock’s rustic charm is reason alone to travel the 100-plus miles north of New York City. If the weather allows, we’ll walk the trail from the Tibetan Buddhist monastery to Overlook Mountain where views of the Hudson and nearby Catskills make the climb more than worth it. And if not, we’ll light a fire and hole up inside with nowhere to be but right here.

Essentials …
Layers upon layers of natural fibres is the way to go, starting with a fine-knit wool sweater worn close to the body, a silk shirt peeking out from a chunky knit and an oversized wool coat to guard against the brisk winter air. For scent, natural oils - always. And when it comes to beauty, a splash of cold water on the face followed by sea buckthorn oil, mascara and a swipe of sheer matte goodness.

Celebrating …
Now’s the time. Thoughtful gifts for the ones I hold close and if geography allows, a celebratory glass of champagne for good measure.