a few festive (and fun) holiday outfit ideas (that feel easy to wear)

Fashion & Beauty

A Few Festive (And Fun) Holiday Outfit Ideas (That Feel Easy To Wear)

Drescription

Istruggle with “cocktail attire,” as I don’t love the pressure to look “nighttime” in a tiny little dress. But I do NOT struggle with “festive clothes,” especially during the holidays. I went shopping, hoping to find 1-2 new things, and whoops, found a few more. I hope if nothing else it gives you some ideas on what you might wear to work events, neighborhood parties, or potlucks (outside of the “ugly sweater” which I also love and mostly buy vintage).

The Velvet Jacket

This jacket says “I want to be holiday-friendly” but with just one piece. Of course, you could dress it up over a dress or a mini skirt, but I think on its own over jeans it still feels festive and totally comfortable (and the green color definitely has a lot of longevity, versus a brighter red). The white tank is from Free People via Shopbop, the jeans are new Madewell barrel jeans, the shoes are old, the silver bag is from Anthro, necklaces are from Anthro and J.Crew. Big fan of these barrel jeans from Madewell – I know that barrel jeans are everywhere but these have the best cut and are on the more affordable side. They aren’t toooo wide or tooooo high-waisted (more mid-rise). The cut is GREAT and I like where it hits (ankle length).

SURPRISE! We are trying out a fun new feature where instead of uploading graphics with links underneath, the graphics themselves will be clickable. So here are a few more very cute velvet blazers to check out! (They might take a second to upload, FYI).

My First (And Maybe Last) Faux Leopard Fur Jacket

I’m not going to say that every woman needs to have at least one leopard faux fur coat in their closet, but I’m sure someone fancier than I would say that. It does seem like a pretty good staple for special occasions (and so warm). This one is SO SOFT and I think really well priced. It has pockets, has a great color combo, and can easily be dressed down with jeans and some pointy heels or dressed up over a dress or skirt.

The Holiday Blouse I Bought In Two Colors

As Kaitlin put it when she first saw me in this shirt, “NOW THAT’S A ‘BLOUSE'”. I know this top isn’t for everyone (it’s not particularly sexy), but it’s absolutely giving 1990 Martha Stewart in the best of ways for me. It’s blue and green plaid TAFFETA!!!…. with pretty covered buttons and massive puff sleeves. It’s so fun to wear, feels very me, but in a bit of a Trad Wife costume. Of course, I dressed it down here with distressed drop crotch jeans (it’s voluminous so I like putting something more streamlined on the bottom) but I wish I had worn it with a tighter waist (it’s a really thin fabric that is easy to tuck). The patent leather Mary Jane’s heels come in many colors and are so cute. I also bought this top in black velvet which is really drapey and soft, FYI (it comes in a lot of colors).

I found A LOT of great “party blouses” so here are more that I loved (just click the photo to see more):

A Festive Powersuit:)

I’m obsessed with this floral set, but TBH the legs came in so long that I didn’t have time to hem them and they are ridiculous. I put the top on the gift guide but hadn’t tried on the pants so I was happy that the quality and colors are awesome. I would absolutely wear this to a holiday function where I needed to look fun, but more sophisticated (i.e. a work party?). But I would also wear it to a cocktail party in lieu of a little dress or for a speaking engagement. It’s just powerful but still feminine. Maybe not the most festive holiday outfit, but I wanted to show it off anyway.

A Bold Mini

Ok, this is very, very “me” if I had to do “cocktail attire”. A tiny silver sequin skirt (this one is from Reformation, but I’ve seen this Target one on social that looks really good) and a vintage-inspired sweatshirt (Anine Bing via Shopbop). Throw on some over-the-knee boots (that come in a lot of different leather colors) and some jewelry and I am totally ready to go out and feel cute, but still with that casual vibe.

I think a sequin skirt is such a good party attire investment. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and New Year’s. Below are some more great options with some additional lengths:)

A Sequin Sweater??

I LOVE this sweater – the color is so pretty and the inside is knit so it’s really cozy for being covered in sequins. I dressed it up a bit with black (waxed) trousers, but I would more likely wear this with jeans to a holiday event. It feels festive and fun, but since the color is more understated (a really rich coppery aubergine) it isn’t as bold. The top is a wide mock turtleneck and it’s a boxier cut (I’m wearing a small) with skinny arms. Just so easy to wear and so comfortable for “sequins”.

So while I love the sweater I’m wearing, there are a ton of great sequin tops on the market. These are some of my top pics:

The Sequin Long Blazer

Along the same lines as the velvet blazer, a really festive jacket like this dressed up any outfit. This sequin jacket is more of a long blazer, duster even. It has really great firm shoulders that create a nice drape that is really flattering (not trying to be flattering, instead just a straight drop in a good way. Shoes are from Madewell (I liked the simplicity and the sharper toe with the fancier long jacket). Same barrel pants and a Clare V. purse I’ve had forever.

Hope this post gave you some ideas and made you feel even more excited about celebrating the holidays.

4 Women Honestly Review Gel-X Manicures (+ 42 Nail Art Ideas We Actually Tried)

It’s been nine months since my first Gel-X manicure and let me tell you: I’m never going back. Dips? Acrylics? Extensions? Regular gel? NO MORE FOR ME, THANK YOU. So today, I wanted to share a little bit more about Gel-X (you know – what it is, how much it costs, how long it lasts, the pros/cons) buuuuut I also wanted to bring in a few familiar faces to share their opinions and experiences. (If you’re the type of person with the dexterity to paint your own nails, we’re also sharing 42 different shots of our actual manicures – maybe we can spark some of your creativity! And, if you’re like, “uh, nails aren’t for me,” there’s even a picture of a real-life horse in here! Why? You’ll find out! Anyway, something for everyone!) Let’s start with the high-level overview, yeah? Basically, Gel-X is a press-on nail that cures like gel (read: your nail technician will size up your hands, glue on a nail of your preferred shape/length, and your ~new nails~ will be firmly attached for about a month after you shove your hand under one of those UV lights). Once everything has cured, your technician will proceed as normal – polish, art, lotion, oil, an occasional full hand model photoshoot for their IG, etc. – and when you’re finally ready to come back in a few weeks to switch things up, the removal process is the same as it would be for any standard gel manicure. i’ll pop in later with more of my nail art, but here’s a taste! Gel-X nails are flexible (so they won’t snap in half when you jam your hand into a wall, or a counter, or your car, or some other place, as regular humans are wont to do). They’re also really lightweight, especially when compared to acrylics, and they look natural – or, uh, as natural as neon cow print nails can look, at least. More than anything, though, I’ve found that Gel-X nails just make me feel really, really, really great. There’s something kind of fun and visceral about clacking away on something, you know? But this isn’t just about me – three other EHD gals have hopped on the Gel-X train, so I wanted to grab their unbiased opinions, too. I’ll check in with you below (and I’ll spill the details on my average spend!), but first…let me throw it over to the queen of nail art, Veronica. Veronica When’d you start trying out Gel-X? My first Gel-X manicure was in June of 2021, because I wanted to do something special for my birthday, and since then it’s been a nice once-a-month self-care routine during the pandemic. :) Had you invested in nails or nail art before (e.g. gels, acrylics, press-ons, etc.)? Before Gel-X, I had gotten gel on my regular nails and tried press ons / glue ons, but those only averaged about 2 weeks max. Was there an adjustment period to Gel-X? Not really. Gel-X is better for your nails than acrylics, but your nails do thin still because of them being sanded down in the process. What’s your preferred shape and length? I go back and forth between getting somewhere between an almond and stiletto shape and a square shape. I usually keep them short-medium length because of my job (photographer who works on her computer most days, or is dealing with equipment when I’m on set). How long do your appointments take? Appointments take between 1.5 – 2 hours. How long do your nails stay on? I’ve never had a nail fall off when getting Gel-X, and I usually get mine done anywhere between three and four weeks because my nails grow out pretty quickly. How do your nails feel? My nails feel good, not like they are being ruined or anything, but they are thinner for sure since starting Gel-X! Although, my nails have always been on the thin side. Is there an average cost? The place I go to is on the more expensive side (between $90-100 before tip) because I found a nail tech I really love and trust, but I know a salon that a pal of mine has gone to and it’s around $65 starting price. It really just depends on the salon, but I have found it’s important to go somewhere you feel the techs are able to take care of your nails in a healthy way. Where do you get your nail art inspiration? I use Pinterest and Instagram for nail inspo and have saved boards on both. Two accounts I follow on Instagram are: Nia Ho & Vivian W and the other saved posts have popped up on my explore page. :) Any pros and cons? I’m not a professional, so I can only speak to my personal opinion lol but pros – if you want something that will last without having to worry about chipping, breaking, or touch-ups, then the Gel-X is a great option. Cons – it can add up and get expensive depending on how often you get them done and it’s important to get them taken off in a salon so you don’t ruin your nails trying to do them yourself. Ryann When’d you start trying out Gel-X? I started October 2021. Had you invested in nails or nail art before (e.g. gels, acrylics, press-ons, etc.)? Years and years ago I used to get acrylic nails but I hated it. More recently I was a press-on nail gal but only for special occasions. Was there an adjustment period to Gel-X? Oh yeah. At first, I felt like I couldn’t do anything with long nails but I got used to it pretty fast. Typing was very hard at first (I looked like this). What’s your preferred shape and length? I get the medium length and almond shape. How long do your appointments take? If I am getting a Gel-X removal plus a new set it usually takes an hour and a half. How long do your nails stay on? The longest I have gone between appointments is 4 weeks and they were still holding on! How do your nails feel? My actual nails feel a lot stronger than they did when I used to get acrylics. I think the Gel-X is a lot more gentle on your actual nails. Is there an average cost? With tip it’s between $100-150 (when you do designs versus a solid color it’s closer to $150). Where do you get your nail art inspiration? Instagram or my friends! Any pros and cons? Pros: I feel put together even when I am wearing sweats. And I get compliments all the time. :’) Cons: If the technician cuts my actual nails too short before putting the Gel X on as my nails start to grow out it can be painful because my nails start to grow into my nail bed (it’s gross I know). But the easy fix to this is to tell your nail tech not to cut your actual nails. Jess When’d you start trying out Gel-X? October 5, 2021 (my birthday:)). Had you invested in nails or nail art before (e.g. gels, acrylics, press-ons, etc.)? I went a couple of years getting gel manicures all the time when I worked in restaurants because it was the only kind that actually lasted. Getting a regular mani at the time was like throwing money directly into the trash. Then a few years ago I got a gel manicure with a design for the first time and my god I loved it but wasn’t able to afford it on the regular. This go around however was my first time EVER getting “fake nails”. My mom gave me a hard no when I wanted those french tip acrylics in middle school. I guess being like all the other cool girls wasn’t a good enough argument. Was there an adjustment period to Gel-X? Lol yes. I felt like Edward Scissorhands but less proficient for at least a week. I remember the next morning trying to put on my leggings thinking “I don’t think I can dress myself. This nail thing is a LIFESTYLE!” I was mainly afraid of them ripping off which is apparently a VERY normal experience for newbs like me. But then when I got my second and now with my third, they just feel like my normal fingernails. the 2nd set that felt too wide (they also were a little shorter to be fair) What’s your preferred shape and length? I love an almond shape and medium length. I don’t know if “medium” is a technical term but I want them to look longish and elegant but still want to be able to you know, type. I will also say that the physical gel-x shape is I think called Stiletto (not the tip shape but fact check me on that). Basically, I like the nail to look slender. The second set I got (the green one above) felt a little wide for me. Just something to think about if you are going in for the first time or if you want a different look. How long do your appointments take? Eh, 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the design. The first time is the shortest since they don’t have to remove your old set. How long do your nails stay on? So far about six weeks. BUT I have chosen designs where the “background” is clear or “natural”. Why that’s a good idea if you want to stretch out your mani is that the grow-out is less noticeable than if I had a solid color. How do your nails feel? Ok, so the plan is to have my real nails grow long enough to where I can just go back to gel manicures and they are almost there (except one stupid one that broke so not sure if I need to wait until that one grows back). That being said, you can see my real nails when I flip my hands over. It’s not the prettiest if I’m honest but I’ve got goals. So when you go, you have the choice to keep your natural nails long or cut them short so you really can’t see them ever. How do my real nails feel you ask? When the fake ones get shaved off, they feel oookay. Look, it’s a sacrifice. I don’t know if it’s possible to have perfectly healthy nails and do anything beyond a regular manicure. All I know is that for now, I love having my nails done and fun for six weeks at a time. Is there an average cost? $105 + Tip (I usually give $30 because they do such a great job and they are literally painting art onto my hands). left: really long nails | right: short (for me:)) nails Where do you get your nail art inspiration? Pinterest and Instagram. I have folders that I save to. But also Beyonce was my last inspiration so look at those celeb nails too! Veronica also shares accounts she loves which is so fun and very sweet of her. We go to the same salon too! AD Any pros and cons? Pros: I LOVE my nails and they make me feel sexy, powerful, and put together. Cons: It’s not cheap and I know that my real nails aren’t living their best lives. Oh, and activities like bowling and putting on necklaces are hard. Caitlin When’d you start trying out Gel-X? Got my first one on May 19, 2021 and I never went back. Had you invested in nails or nail art before (e.g. gels, acrylics, press-ons, etc.)? I used to spend a bunch on standard gel manicures with full art – that’s the one beauty splurge that I really loved – but I had a really bad habit of picking it all off, which (a.) made my hands look kind of gnarly and (b.) was not great for the health of my nails. Was there an adjustment period to Gel-X? For me, no. I was used to having longer nails so other than the constant fear that they were going to pop off, they felt totally normal to me. What’s your preferred shape and length? I started with medium ovals, but I moved into long territory with the set you see above. Scale-wise, I think longer ones look best on my hands. How long do your appointments take? Removal can take 30-45 minutes and then my new manicure can be another 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how much detail I’m looking for. How long do your nails stay on? I maxed out at 8 weeks for the holidays – I literally had to cut them like my regular nails because they’d grown out so much. That said, I did experience some lifting on the base of my pointer finger when I first started – this was remedied by bringing it up to my nail tech and I haven’t had any problems since! If you’re doing a lot of schlepping or manual work, I’d highly recommend flagging that before your first set. How do your nails feel? Good! While I don’t mean to suggest that Gel-X is making my nails stronger, they’re in WAY better shape than when I used to get gel manicures sanded off every two weeks. When my sets are removed, my nails look pretty normal, too – no breakage or thinning is happening underneath the Gel-X nail. Is there an average cost? I pay a $20 booking fee to reserve my spot and then manicures are $60-100, depending on how crazy I’m getting. Tips are always 20-25% – so basically $100 on the low end, $150 on the high end. Where do you get your nail art inspiration? NIA!!! My nail tech is LA’s best-kept secret and while I kind of don’t want to share the intel (it’s already hard to get an appointment – she’s popular!!!), YOU MUST CHECK OUT HER INSTAGRAM. I do not know how Nia does not have a million followers – she can do ANYTHING. Seriously, her IG page is filled with a staggering variety and you’re guaranteed to find something inspiring there. SHE IS THE BEST. (I wouldn’t want to spend ~2 hours with anyone else.) as promised – this is doolittle, a big sweet dummy who loves to eat bananas, and these are my thanksgiving nails after a month of growth! Any pros and cons? Pros: I feel really powerful and kind of intimidating when my nails are done. Shampooing my scalp feels like a dream. If I’m going to spend at least 8 hours a day typing, it cheers me up to see a little party going on at the tips of my fingers. Clinking my nails on glasses makes me feel really happy. Cons: COST. I mean, when I break it down, I do think they bring me at least $3 of joy per day…but it’s not an essential and if things ever went south, I’m totally aware that this would be the first item cut from my budget. I don’t love subjecting my hands to such isolated UV rays once a month and sometimes I forget SPF before my appointments. Picking up coins is challenging. Working lobster clasps on jewelry is impossible. Nia’s studio is walking distance from my apartment and I get catcalled by a lot of creeps on my way to get my nails done. Despite all this…they’re worth it to me. If you’re self-assured (I’m not) and want to give Gel-X a whirl at home, you can grab a kit right here. If not, check Yelp to find a highly-reviewed technician near you – if you’re going to splurge, make sure it’s on someone who can deliver long-lasting results that’ll make you smile. But now I must know – what say you??? Tell me about your nail habits! Show me your nail art! Send me your inspo accounts! (I have an appointment next week and need a jumping-off point if anyone has suggestions.) LET’S JUST TALK ABOUT OUR HANDS.

Introducing The Next Room…Robyn’s Welcoming Patterned Dining Room Reveal

This dining room reveal is one of my favorites ever, and not just because it was for one of my best friends in the world (but that probably helps). It turned out so gosh darn elegant and yet livable. If you missed their living room reveal (which you’ll see a peak of below) head there first for the background and the befores) because today is focused on this jewel box of a room that I’m so proud of (and jealous of, TBH). Remember, the move-in before was colorless, pretty charmless, and cozy-less. So we had a clear directive – but that doesn’t mean it was fast, cheap, or easy (nothing ever is). It took a year, a fantastic partner (yes, perks to being my friend), and a lot of meetings squeezed in to make it happen. But you can see the potential, right? The big window that frames Mount Hood, the pretty original floors, the built-ins – all just needed some color and point of view. The dining chairs were 10 years old (and falling apart), the chandelier was honestly fine (but sold on FBMP now), and the rug felt too boho for this elegant room but the table? Oh, that heirloom table that’s been in her family for generations was so pretty so we knew that we’d keep that. You can see here the connection between the living and dining room here, with a shared color palette of such warm tones, mixed with so many blues and greens. The dining room properly draws you in, while being totally balanced with the living room – not one room feeling heavier than the other. Almost like magic! (but not magic at all, LOL, it’s a hefty combination of effort, intuition, risk-taking, mistake-making, time, money, and experience…so easy!). Introducing The Dining Room… Kaitlin Green blew me away with these photos – the vibe is captured so perfectly! I think my favorite thing here is the rug with the wallpaper – neither “matching” necessarily and both rather busy, but because they are both classic and even historic, it now looks so vintage and original in here. I feared that it would be too much (especially with the other Persian rug in the living room) but now I see that when you are using such classic motifs and are wanting an old-world vibe, this is the way to go (and let’s be clear the tones and colors work really well together – a lot of complementary tones, not just random). See the full video tour here (just wait for the ad to play…thank you!) The Pretty Brass Chandelier We almost kept their chandelier because it was “fine” but boy am I glad we didn’t. This one is so incredibly beautiful and the slate blue shades make it feel so updated, while the finish and the shape are classic. You can customize the drop, the finish, and the color of the shades (we almost did the burgundy but Robyn got scared and I complied). We kept it high enough to see the view from the living room, but low enough to still feel connected to the table. It’s perfect. And I apologize to those of you who hate it when we photoshop out recessed lights – While I didn’t ask Kaitlin to I am so grateful she did as they can be distracting if they are wrong, stylistically. One thing we could have done is replace them with brass spotlights but they were done spending money and making decisions, and since they didn’t mind the recessed lights we left them and just photoshopped them out for cleaner shots). New Dining Chairs + Antique Table FTW The wallpaper is a classic William Morris pattern (that Rejuvenation sells!) and it was Robyn and Ryan’s first choice so YAY!!!! I loved it too so it was a real win. The chairs are a nice modern pairing to the more detailed/decorative table legs and the black finish added a nice depth and edge to the room. The wishbone shape is not only super ergonomic but the roundedness always adds a nice contrast to a rectangle table. We knew that we couldn’t do a bold piece of art in here, and no gallery wall (too busy + there is one in the living room) so we hung this gorgeous huge mirror which obviously reflects a lot of light and adds so much elegance. The brass frame works so well with the hardware and the chandelier (obviously) and that rounded cut-out detail in the corner keeps it from looking too simple and modern (by giving it a vintage vibe). I know I’ve been harping on the dark blue paint color, but it sure is so perfect, especially with the unlacquered brass handles popping off. We chose a hardware (The Ladd Collection) that has a little bit of detail, leans more elegant than utilitarian but still feels fresh and modern. My goodness, did this elevate this built-in a lot. I styled the credenza with winter branches, a big bowl of mixed pears, family photos in frames (From World Market), and a vintage set of the perfect-toned glassware and carafe (from Stars Market in Portland – although I saw very similar ones from World market the next day that were much more affordable lol). We put a nice classic candlestick lamp in the corner to balance out the branches, draw your eye, and provide a nice ambient glow. We brought over my beautiful inventory of tablescape pieces (that are from Anthropologie for the most part) to style it all out and boy did it look so pretty. Again, all the tones just work so well together. I think this tour isn’t complete without some before and afters: What a difference a year makes. They are sooooo happy and grateful (me, too). Here’s one more of Robs and I for those of you who like to see best friends being unabashedly affectionate :)

The 5 Best Ice Scrapers, Tested and Reviewed

Moyidea Extendable Ice Scraper Snow Brush If you’re searching for an ice scraper that will simplify your snow routine, the Moyidea 36-Inch Extendable Ice Scraper is a must-have. It comes in three parts: a handle, a brush attachment, and an ice scraper attachment. You can easily attach and detach the brush and scraper to either end, making it compact enough to store in the off season. In testing, we found the brush locked in easily, although the scraper took a bit more effort to secure in place.The brush is wider and thicker than previous models we’ve used, and it rotates 360 degrees for extra mobility. The handle is just the right length—not too long, not too short—and it extends from 27 to 36 inches. Plus, it’s wrapped in soft foam for an extra-comfortable grip. The polypropylene plastic held up well against thick ice, requiring just one pass to clear the area. We found the brush bristles similarly well made, effectively removing thinner layers. After three months of tackling heavy snow and ice, the scraper still looks brand new. Overall, we have no complaints—if you’re looking for a compact, budget-friendly, and effective ice scraper, this is an excellent choice. Length: 27 to 36 inches | Weight: 1.19 pounds | Features: Pivoting head, snow brush, extendable, cushioned grip Snow Joe Telescoping Snow Broom + Ice Scraper The best ice scrapers handle stubborn ice without breaking, scratching, or scuffing. That’s why we love Snow Joe’s 2-in-1 18-Inch Foam Head Telescoping Snow Broom and Ice Scraper. While this is one of the most straightforward models we’ve tested, it’s also one of the highest quality. We found the scraper to be incredibly durable, and the foam squeegee felt just as long lasting. You can use the sharp scraper to break down tough ice and then brush it off with the foam side—just keep in mind that the brush doesn’t have traditional bristles. Despite its impressive length, extending up to 52 inches, the scraper felt sturdy and unlikely to break. We also appreciated the padded handle, which provided a much more comfortable grip. After three months of use, the device is still in pristine condition. With its solid construction, this scraper is sure to last for several seasons to come. Length: 33 to 52 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Features: Extendable, snow broom Birdrock Home Snow Moover Snow Brush & Ice Scraper If you drive a larger vehicle, like a truck or van, a small ice scraper just won’t cut it. That’s where the Birdrock Home Snow Moover 55-Inch Extendable Foam Car Snow Brush and Ice Scraper comes in. This scraper extends from 31 and 55 inches. This allowed us to reach nearly every window of our car without having to move our feet. In fact, we cleared every surface in just 10 minutes. In addition to a standard ice-scraping side, this device also has a brush that rotates 270 degrees, helping you reach every nook and cranny. While the 55-inch length may sound daunting, the attachments can easily come on and off, making it more compact than you’d expect. That said, this option is still on the larger side, so it may be uncomfortable for those with smaller hands. Length: 31 to 55 inches | Weight: 1.98 pounds | Features: Snow brush, extendable, detachable ice scraper, foam handle Hopkins Subzero Ice Crusher Ice Scraper While extendable ice scrapers offer impressive reach, smaller models are easier to travel with and stash in the car. With its lightweight, no-frills design, the Hopkins Subzero 16621 Ice Crusher is perfect for quick tasks. The small yet mighty scraper has two features: a rigid ice crusher and a flat ice scraper. The crusher side is designed to chip through thick layers of ice while the flat scraper blade excels at clearing surfaces. During testing, we found both sides effective, particularly the flat side. The foam handle was also comfortable to grip and provided more precise control than some of the bulkier models on our list. Due to its small size, this scraper may require a bit more effort to reach the middle and top of the windshield, particularly on larger vehicles. That said, it’s budget friendly, effective, and durable—even after three months of use, we’ve seen no signs of wear. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in the side pocket of your car door. Length: 11 inches | Weight: 0.25 pounds | Features: Ice crusher, ice scraper, foam handle SubZero Quick Lock Pivoting Head Snowbroom After three months of use, we can confidently say this two-in-one model is one of the best ice scrapers we’ve ever tried. One side features a classic ice scraper blade with chippers while the other has a pivoting brush and squeegee. This dual brush offers the best of both worlds—classic bristles to get into the crevices and a squeegee to remove moisture. During testing, this ice scraper proved to be very effective and quick at breaking down ice, while the brush easily cleared away fresh snow and residue. It felt solid, and even after chipping away at heavy ice, there was no visible damage to the blade. The 60-inch pole made it especially easy to reach our car’s roof, and we never worried about it being too flimsy for the job. After months of daily use, it’s still exceeding our expectations. Length: 60 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Features: Ice crusher, pivoting broom and squeegee, extendable foam handle Final Verdict Our top pick is the Moyidea 36-Inch Extendable Ice Scraper Snow Brush, which cleared ice and snow with just one pass. In addition to its durable, well-made design, it also has a pivoting head, an extendable handle, and a padded grip for comfort. For those who need an ice scraper that can handle larger surfaces, we recommend the Birdrock Home Snow Moover Snow Brush and Ice Scraper. With its impressive 55-inch extendable handle, it’s perfect for tackling big windows and windshields. Our Testing Process To find the best ice scrapers, we tested 21 models in icy conditions over three months. Upon arrival, we examined the quality of each ice scraper, observing the weight and whether they had features like ergonomic handles and snow brushes. After the first snowfall, we tried using each ice scraper without turning on our car’s defroster. If unsuccessful, we used the defroster and tried again. We timed how long it took for us to clear each car window of all ice and snow, assessing the ice scraper’s performance on thin and thick ice and how comfortable it was to hold. If the scraper had any additional features, we evaluated whether they made the product more effective. Once finished, we recorded the approximate thickness of the ice, amount of sun, outside temperature, defrost settings (if applicable), and how many windows we cleared in total. We then repeated the testing process at least two more times (weather permitting) before seeing the product price—the median price of the ice scrapers we tested was $17. For long-term insights, we continued using the ice scrapers over three months, evaluating their performance and durability over time. Finally, we scored each one based on its performance, durability, features, ease of use, and value, which is based on the product’s performance in conjunction with its retail price. All scrapers were long-term tested over the winter to make sure they held up to daily use. How to Shop for Ice Scrapers Like a Pro Size When choosing an ice scraper, the size of your vehicle should be your first consideration. If you have a larger vehicle, like a truck or van, a bigger, heavy-duty option will be the most effective. An extendable handle is especially useful in these cases, as it allows you to reach more of your windshield without having to move around your car. Just make sure you have ample space in the trunk or backseat to store it. For those with smaller cars and more limited storage space, a handheld ice scraper, like the Hopkins SubZero 16621 Ice Scraper Ice Crusher, is the best bet. While smaller models may clear less ice at once, they’re lighter and less cumbersome, so your arm won’t get as tired while you clean. Features We suggest going with a two-in-one ice scraper and snow brush, which includes both a sharper ice scraper and a bristled brush. The sharp scraper will be best for breaking down more stubborn ice, while the brush is suitable for removing lighter layers of snow. Other features you might find include heating capabilities, LED lights, squeegee attachments, rotating heads, extendable lengths, interchangeable pieces, glove attachments, and crusher or chipper attachments. Ergonomics While ice scrapers can sometimes feel uncomfortable and awkward to use, it’s important to find a model with an ergonomic design. All of the models on our list have padded foam on the handles, which allows for a more comfortable grip. It’s also worth considering weight; a lighter scraper will be less cumbersome and easier to handle during extended use. More Ice Scrapers to Consider Common'h Ice Scraper with Glove: We found this ice scraper to be both effective and durable, and the warm, waterproof glove kept our hand toasty as we worked. That said, the short handle wasn’t ideal for clearing larger.surfaces SnoShark-STD: This model excelled at clearing snow, thanks to its metal telescoping handle and nylon paddle. However, it was less effective when it came to clearing ice. OxGord 2-in-1 Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: Measuring just 17 inches in length, this compact model allowed us to clear snow and ice from our car in less than five minutes. Just keep in mind that due to its small size, it might not be the most practical choice for larger vehicles. Snow Joe SJBLZD Illum-n LED Lighted 4-in-1 Snow Broom Plus Ice Scraper: Featuring four LED lights, this snow broom and ice scraper combo is perfect for late-night projects. Unfortunately, the ice scraper wasn’t strong enough to handle thick ice, and the metal was quite cold to hold without gloves. Questions You Might Ask What features are most important in an ice scraper? Before you buy, consider which features might benefit your needs. For example, an extendable handle could be necessary for people with larger cars, while LED lights may be essential for those with early morning or late night commutes. We also want to point out that heated scrapers aren’t worth buying—in our testing, they took a while to heat up and were no more effective than the defroster on our car. What size ice scraper should I get? The size ice scraper you choose should largely depend on the vehicle you drive. If you drive a larger vehicle, an extendable ice scraper will make cleaning quicker and easier. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a portable option to keep in your car for quicker tasks, a compact scraper is the way to go. When should I use the scraper or the brush side? Most models have two sides—an ice scraper and a brush. The scraping side is sharper, making it great for breaking down ice. In addition to the classic flat blade, some models may also have rigid chippers to help tackle thicker, more stubborn ice. Once you’ve chipped at the ice, you can use the flat brush side to clear the debris. Some brushes have traditional bristles to help get into the crevices, while others have a smoother design for pushing snow. Some models, like the Hopkins SubZero 80037 60-Inch Quick Lock Pivoting Head Snowbroom, include a bristled brush and squeegee to eliminate excess moisture. Take Our Word for It To compile this list, we tested 21 ice scrapers and evaluated them on performance, durability, features, ease of use, and value.

We Found The Best Garage Doors Ever – See For Yourself

Inever thought I’d be this excited to show you the prettiest garage doors ever. When we finally agreed to invest in making our garages better, our goal was to make them functional, but we had very low expectations on how beautiful they would be. Our garages aren’t on a street where neighbors can see (only friends and our trusted FedEx guys would see them), they aren’t part of our curb appeal (not attached to the house), so our goal was “better and basic” (along with “dry, not disgusting, less spiders and mold,” and ultimately way less dangerous). But today we are talking specifically about the doors – what we now call the best garage doors ever. And because I clearly have a disorder where I can’t do anything simply or “without obsessing about how pretty it could be,” therefore I ended up choosing these pretty doors that make me so happy – far happier than predicted. Before we get into the full post, here is a fun little video (just wait for the ad to play:)) The Before Here is where we started 5 years ago. We knew we were lucky to have this huge garage at all (right?), but they weren’t in the best shape, and everything needed repair. We ignored them for a couple of years, finally hiring the most affordable painter in town who was willing to just paint without any prep (a real literal lipstick on a pig situation) because they were such an eyesore after our house was finally done. But we knew they were not in good enough condition to invest in scraping and painting properly. The fresh coat kinda helped, but otherwise we didn’t touch them for another 3 years. Starting in January, we knew that we needed the storage soon because we wanted to start restoring the original carriage house on the property. We’d need the garages to be our future and permanent storage space for my vintage hoarding and any future product lines (not to mention life and holiday stuff). So we hired my brother’s brand-new company, Afore Construction, to fix them up, and new garage doors were a clear must. I received multiple word-of-mouth recommendations for Ponderosa, a local (and experienced) garage door installer. I reached out and really loved their customer service, speed, communication style (fast and personal with easy text notifications), and variety of great door products. After telling Ken, the owner, that I wanted carriage-style doors, he suggested we work with a company called Clopay because they are meant to be the best garage doors, with a massive variety of customization and styles (ours are vintage style, but they certainly have very contemporary and modern as well). They range in price, as expected, and ours are more than average, but for our style of property (more historic and antique), we felt we needed to pick something that really aligned with the property. Turns out even though I promised myself “I didn’t care”, more focused on function and speed – turns out I always care, always. I chose the Canyon Ridge Elements garage doors, and to get all specific about them (should you want to copy them exactly), they are low-maintenance, insulated steel garage doors with composite overlays. We chose Design 22 (how the diagonal lines are designed) with the SQ23 windows (size and configuration style) and had them all painted SW Dutch Tile Blue (they can match any Sherwin-Williams color). My goodness, are they beautiful. Ponderosa installed them in one day – ONE DAY!! They arrived, a team of 3, and powered through without me having to do a thing. And they were extremely professional, knowledgeable, and just so impressive. 10/10 service. They texted their eta, and were so easy to communicate with, with everything being electronic (so not a lot of annoying contracts and paperwork at the end). They offer a 5-star service program which provides annual maintenance and has the quietest motor (and it’s oddly quiet, not something I thought I’d care about, but it’s really lovely). They are also very hard to break into with high-end steel and mechanisms, which is clearly important. We added the faux handles and strappings in black to make them look more vintage, working with the farm design of the property. And we wanted windows on top to add natural light inside (and charm). They had a lot of options for all of these elements, both in style and color (we chose the spear style strap). I literally couldn’t be happier with what we chose and how they turned out – they add such charm and are super high quality. And there is a slightly “faux” wood grain finish to the garage doors that adds a really nice texture, which I was SO relieved looked fantastic in person (I’m always nervous about faux anything, but this is not cheesy, just subtle and nice). We chose to have each controlled separately, with individual codes, and inside, there are convenient buttons to open and close. The garage doors on the inside are clean, and the windows add nice natural light. Ponderosa really nailed the execution, and they function so perfectly, quietly, and just so seamlessly (zero annoyance to me and super intuitive to figure out). I wish I had more drama to tell you, more things I wish I had done differently, or lessons I learned. But I have zero regrets or lessons on this one! WAhoo! Just the best garage doors executed perfectly. We left the last bay open as a carport. It was the original sheep’s barn and was never a garage. But we did this mostly for budget purposes. We saved on not having electrical, simple framing, finishes, and no cement floor (just gravel). It’s super bare bones, which we are fine with (we almost just tore it down, but my brother convinced us to keep it, just not really invest in it). Ultimately, we didn’t need a fifth garage, just a covered carport for Brian’s vintage truck and a great space for messy painting projects. And heck, a future owner might have a boat or something they want to store here (no intent on a future owner, but we always consider all the possibilities). A few quick and dirty facts: The doors themselves would typically cost $18k for 4 doors. Choosing a custom Sherwin-Williams paint color adds $10/sq. ft. to the door cost and a few extra weeks. Remember ours were on the higher end, and they have a lot that are much more affordable with fewer design details and general bells and whistles. The install for these four doors would typically be around $11,340, which covers the cost of the high-end Liftmaster motors, all the elevated, premium parts, and extended warranty that comes with the 5-Star bundle that Ponderosa provides, and of course, the labor to install everything. You get what you pay for, and we are thrilled. You wouldn’t buy the doors separately or anything, but just giving you the breakdown so you understand the overall costs. The cost didn’t include the new framing and the electrical prep. Since we were fixing our garages, not just changing out the doors, Afore worked with Ponderosa to frame it perfectly and prep all the electrical in advance. Ponderosa measured and ordered the doors after the framed door openings were finished. NEW FEATURE ALERT! We now have before and after sliders. Just use the arrow toggle button to see the transformation:) When they arrived, I was oddly delighted by these garage doors, and I remain so happy every time my eye lands on them. The happy blue, the windows, the decorative strappings, and the super smooth, quiet function – truly the best garage doors. I feel extremely lucky and grateful. A huge thanks to Ponderosa for their excellent execution on our doors. Thank you, Clopay, for partnering on these beautiful garage doors, and Afore Construction for doing all the prep work and helping us fix up the garages. Interior reveal coming soon, I promise.