Lots going on lately: I had a lovely birthday with family followed by a busy week of travel—more on my time visiting SCAD soon, but it was nice to be in my home state for a bit, especially this time of year (pollen be damned). Click for a peek of the Dior exhibit on display there, which I was lucky enough to preview:

And of course, it was great to spend some time with my parents ahead of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, which are swiftly coming up. This week, I have a short guide of things anyone might want, no matter if you’re gifting your own parent, a friend, or yourself—so we’ll get right to it. Enjoy!

Today’s newsletter is sponsored by Cora. I’m always trying to minimize my impact on the environment, and Cora made that easier with the new Applicator-Free Tampon. In this case, applicator-free not only means less waste, it also means comfortable to use thanks to the tapered design and smooth outer layer. Plus, it’s made with 100% organic cotton and without chlorine, pesticides, fragrance, dyes or rayon, so you can feel good about it in every way. Shop now at cora.com.

Cuyana System Organizer Pouch, $128
Every parent could use the gift of order, and this insert makes any tote bag more organized. Of course, you could go above and beyond and give them a bag to go along with it, but aren’t we all maxed out on totes by now? This has the same energy in a new way.

Guerlain customizable scented candle, $165
A candle on its own isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but this luxe version allows you to give them one a) in their favorite scent and b) in a vessel that matches their decor. Plus, once it runs out, they can choose from a refill in the same scent or a new one.

Osea vagus nerve oil, $48
When things get overwhelming at home, in the carpool line, at the airport, etc., they can simply rub this oil in their palms, take a deep breath, and be transported to a better place—if only momentarily.

Chan Luu Mizumi earrings, $195
Hard to go wrong with a necklace or earrings with the kids’ initials, of course, but why not get something that’s special for date night or girls’ night out instead? These abalone earrings from Chan Luu are my current pick, and they’re so fun for summer nights.

Rothy’s Casual Clogs, $159
These are easy, cute, and comfy for busy parents who want an alternative to sneakers. The brand kindly gifted me a pair, and I’ve barely worn anything else for Barney’s dog walks and coffee runs lately. Bonus: They’re machine-washable. [Ed. note: The brand says they run big, but mine were true to size.]

Lands’ End cashmere, price varies
Y’all know how I feel about Lands’ End cashmere. A cardi or pullover is such a good layer for spring and summer, and will make mom (or dad!) feel very VIP.

Shark Chill Pill, $149
With a light mister, a powerful fan, and a cooling plate, this 3-in-1 tool is a must for schvitzes. Whether it’s hot flashes or watching soccer from the stands, it’s a must, and it can also be situated to stand up on a desk in stuffy offices.

Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Mommy and Me pajamas, $10-25
Cute, super-soft, and the price is right. Love this gift for new moms!

ghd unplugged cordless 1” flat iron, $299
The size of this shrunken-down iron is so convenient for travel, and I love how it’s cordless because I’m so uncoordinated. I imagine that adding kids to the mix would make the latter even more appealing. (It also has auto shut-off—an important feature when kids are nearby!)

Hill House x Wet Brush Pro Detangler Brush, $18
I’m a Wet Brush devotee, and this collab is adorable (not to mention less than $20). They also have a ton of really cute hair accessories, which of course would be cute for mommy-and-me moments as well.

Rag & Bone rb Miramar Wide-Leg Track Pants, $218
I finally drank the Kool-Aid and got a pair of these pants, inspired by my Aunt Lisa who looked so cute in hers. I’m obsessed and think everyone—mom or otherwise—needs them.

Thank you to Cora for supporting Gatekeeping! Shop The Applicator-Free Tampon now at cora.com.

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Transparently, I’m sending you this gift guide about two weeks later than I’d initially planned. (Blame life—and Bravocon.) But working on it has become one of my favorite newsletters each year, so I always want to make it better and better each year.

I should also say up front: There are a lot of people here on Substack and beyond who do luxury gift guides, and do them very well. This is not one of those gift guides; in fact, of the 19 gifts below, all but four are below $100, and 11 are less than $50. Sure, there are a few splurges in there—why not?!—but as with every year, I wanted this to be a gift guide that is both a fun read and genuinely helpful to your holiday shopping. And as always, I have contributions from some of the guests who make Gatekeeping what it is. Many thanks to them!

Also! I would be remiss not to mention that a great gift for yourself or anyone else is the gift of Gatekeeping.

Now, without further ado, behold the 2025 Gatekeeping gift guide!

Things to Wear

Beis compactible backpack, $78 (sold out—try the Baggu Cloud Carry-On instead!)
This convertible bag is genius: It’s a crossbody with a larger compartment that zips into the back pocket so it expands into a backpack when you inevitably need more space. So good for travelers and New Yorkers alike.

Bombas build a sock pack, price varies
I’m at that age where a set of nice, high quality socks sounds like a fantastic gift. Bombas really makes the best—from their athletic socks to styles with frilly ruffles, they all rule. Going for the gift set gives you 10% off.

Tarte Petite Kisses Maracuja Juicy Lip Duo, $24 (sold out, try the Maracuja Lip Vault instead!)
Every brand on the planet launched a lip product (or five) this year, but I personally fell back in love with this oldie but goodie. Give the gift of 2017 nostalgia with this duo, which comes with cute charms, too.

Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, $329 $246.75, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
I have a pair and, unfortunately, they are a very fun gadget. I use them to take pics and videos—especially on trips—and have used them as headphones in a pinch as well. I know they have a zillion other untapped uses but even just with those I think they’re worth it.

Soft Goat Cable Knit Cashmere Sweater, $645
“My dream Christmas present is a cashmere set from Soft Goat! In general I love gifting a luxe version of something people already use/love (in this case, sweatpants), and their cable knit cashmere ones are perfection.” — , author of

Oura Ring 4, $349, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
“I’m notorious for a tech gift. You really can’t go wrong giving or receiving an Oura ring, mine changed my life and I could totally use the new Generation 4. I’m still waiting for someone to buy me a Birkin Black 25 Togo with gold hardware, but that appears to be perennially out of the budget.” — Allison McNamara, founder and CEO of Mara

Deco Beauty Nail Stickers, $12, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
These little nail stickers come in a zillion different patterns—Miffy, butterflies, fruits, animals, the list goes on. They’re perfect for kids, of course, but adults would love them too (I speak from experience).

Daphne Goodnight Long Sleeve, $74, and shorts, $62
In this house, we’re Team Paige. Paige DeSorbo’s much-hyped pajama line features this soft and sweet pointelle set, made from 100% cotton. Perfect for fans of Summer House, fans of being comfy, or both.

Things for the home

Kii Arens kitty print, $45
It’s come to my attention that some people are cat people, not dog people. For them, a campy-cute print from artist (and maker of all your favorite concert posters) Kii Arens will have them purring with excitement.

Flamingo Estate Honey, $48
I prefer a fancy honey over a fancy candle, if only because it has more uses. And while this jar is pricey, it’s also nearly 20 ounces and absolutely delicious.

Hotel Kitsch by Margaret Bienert and Corey Bienert, $35 $14, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
This fun coffee table book documents, you guessed it, kitschy hotels from all around the U.S. and will make you want to jump in the car for a road trip, stat. Give it to your bestie with the promise you’ll hit up your favorite spot (or spots) next year.

Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run by Paul McCartney, $45 35, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
One cool thing about Paul McCartney is he’ll happily release a coffee table book every year so you have something to gift the Beatlemaniac in your life. This time, he switched gears to Wings, but same concept.

Shutterfly photo prints, starting at $0.20
”Tracking down a photo of a memory that the person you’re gifting keep telling you about and having it framed. My dad had been telling me this story for years of when he was 21 and traveling with his best friend, and so I contacted the best friend to get the scan of the photo! Sweet and nostalgic!” —Hannah Pilkes, comedian and actress

Diptique gold wick trimmer, $68
“The best gift for the person who has everything is a Diptyque gold wick trimmer. totally superfluous, but isn’t that the whole point? If this is a friend you really, really like, you can complete their candle accessory wardrobe with a gold snuffer.”—Dianna Singh, features director at Allure and founder, Dianna Singh

Snoopy Warmies, $35
Continuing in the grand tradition of including something Snoopy in every gift guide, this year I'm recommending this weighted plushy. Like all Warmies, it can be warmed to keep you (or, you know, a child) warm and cozy for a good night’s sleep.

Practical Things

Spotminders wallet tracker, $30, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
A couple of months ago, I thought I lost my wallet—tl;dr I didn’t, but I immediately bought one of these credit-card-sized trackers to mitigate the three days of panic in the future. You all know someone who needs it (and if you don’t, that person might be you).

Counterpart charger, $44
We gave away these retractable chargers in the gift bags for our latest freelancer event, and I’m slightly obsessed. They’re excellent for travel in particular, as the cute colors make you less likely to leave them in a hotel room, plus you don’t have to worry about tangled cords when packing.

Touchland hand sanitizer set, $45 ($50 value)
The cool kids all use Touchland, I’m told. Give this five-pack of the trendy hand sanitizers to a single clean freak (complimentary) or divvy them up for stocking stuffers.

Hatch sleeping device, $170, available on Amazon Prime for last-minute gifting
“I’m planning to gift the Hatch sleeping device because it helps me to calm down, put down my phone and get ready for bed. I also love that I can wake up to the sunrise without having to touch my phone first thing in the morning.” —Jackie Kim, founder of Maelove

I should also mention that in an effort to avoid shopping, I recently…

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I spent the first weekend of the season doing something I never expected: skiing. It was my first—and likely only—time doing so, thanks to my friends at e.l.f. Cosmetics, who brought me (and Barney!) along for a quick trip upstate. It was a blast, and I got to spend time with some talented, funny, friendly beauty editors (who hope…

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In September 2018, I left a job I loved for a job I ended up hating. I went to “the brand side,” as we called it, thinking it would give me more money (which it did, briefly) and more stability (which it didn’t). By the end of January 2019, my team and I were all laid off. I call it my semester abroad.

Let’s rewind. I joined a team of three to work on the brand’s blog, among other “editorial” projects. On the surface, it was like working on a miniature magazine website: we ideated stories, produced photo shoots, wrote and edited copy, the whole shebang. But in reality, I had no say, no real power, and no agency. For example: A product labeled an “editor’s pick,” would not be my choice, but rather a product that the merchandising team was pushing due to excess inventory. When our team would cast models for our shoots, we would be told that certain (white, blond) models would already be on set for ecomm, and we were to use them instead. There are many (far worse) examples, but honestly it’s not worth getting into without a drink or two first.

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I’ve always loved a good grey sweater. I have about five in my possession right now, from a thrifted Land’s End mens cashmere I wear exclusively on the couch to my newest acquisition, a ribbed cardigan I got during the Alex Mill sale (which is low-key still going on).

I wore the latter last week, when a group of beauty editors congregated at Pasquale Jones for a dinner for the haircare brand Odele (s/o to founder and former Gatekeeping guest, Lindsay Holden!). The evening was warm and inviting—not only because there was pizza and pasta on the menu, but also because it’s January in New York so grey sweaters were the unofficial dress code.

Editor Fiorella Valdesolo was one of the stylish people wearing the night’s It knit, so I followed up: “I was wearing a vintage Scottish oversized sweater that I found in the back of an antique furniture store up in Hudson, New York,” she tells me. As always, the best stuff can be found in the Hudson valley—I feel strongly about this.

Fiorella says she’s “really drawn to wooly dove or steel grey sweaters right now, maybe because of the contrast between the light color (a visual palette cleanser!) and the heavy nubby material.” She says her grey sweaters are “built to last,” as all of them are years-old, including “another vintage one, a paper thin cashmere cardigan that I’ve had since high school (which was many many moons ago) that I like to tuck into jeans, and a boxy deep V-neck, also cashmere but thicker that I got from a Steven Alan sample sale in the early aughts.”

I also consulted someone else I know with an expert-level sweater collection: my friend Caitlin Brody, entertainment director at Condé Nast. She’s been wearing her Alex Mill Becca Embroidered Sweater (sold out, but there are some on The Real Real)

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I know we’re about to reach saturation point for gift guides, but there have been a few more things that have caught my eye. It felt selfish to keep them to myself—so I’m giving you a few extra ideas that are just as good if not better than what I shared in V1. Even better, this one’s just for paid subscribers. Happy shopping!

Nora Ephr…

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It’s time for the second-annual Gatekeeping Gift Guide! Did I intentionally send it out early to be ahead of the election? Obviously yes. But that’s just an early gift to you.

Like last year’s, it’s *lightly categorized* by type of thing: cozy things, shiny things, beauty things, and other things. (The beauty category is notably brief by design; I…

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But first: I extended the Labor Day sale on paid subscriptions for one day only, so through September 4, you can get 20% off on both monthly and yearly subs. I can’t stress enough how genuinely thrilled and grateful I am that each and every one of you are here. However if you have considered upgrading to a paid subscription, there’s no time like the present.

Get 20% off forever

In addition to helping to support my work and give my smol chihuahua a better life, a paid subscription gets you:

• Two bonus newsletters per month (including this one)

• Full access to the Gatekeeping archive

• Early access to the Gatekeeping Gift Guide, one of last year’s most-read newsletters

• The ability to comment

K, ad break over!!

Onto the shopping list. I can’t wait to hear what’s on yours, too.

COS leather rope belt, $45
I missed this belt the first time it was on the site, and have been stalking it ever since. This weekend—praise be!—it came back in stock and I scooped it up along with this tee. I plan to tie it over dresses, blazers, and just about everything for the foreseeable future.

Dolce Vita Beny Flats, $130
I love the ‘70s vibe of these shiny black loafers, which add a little something to my usual jeans-and-a-sweater combo. Best of all they truly are so comfy, and don’t need any breaking in.

Bombas Bow Quarter Sock, $18
If you, too, have renewed bow fever thanks to Naomi Osaka’s U.S. Open fits, may I turn your attention to these socks? So cute to wear with the above loafers, tennis shoes, or even heels if you’re into that sorta thing.

Dorsey Lucien White Sapphire Earrings, $210
I’ve been loving my 5-stone strand bracelet from Dorsey, and now I have my sights set on these earrings. I recently spotted these on a publicist colleague, confirming that they are as pretty and sparkly IRL as they are online (actually, prettier). I feel like they’ll be equally gorg with a cocktail dress as they will with a cozy sweater.

Sézane Smith Jacket, $265
I’m lucky because the season’s biggest outerwear trend—the barn jacket—has been a staple of my wardrobe since Jenna Lyons’ J.Crew era. So it’s not that I need a new jacket. However I kind of can’t stop thinking about this bandana-print style. It’s a bit of a problem actually. If you’re in the same boat, I suggest you hurry because every time I click back another size is sold out.

The links below are affiliate-free for paid subscribers. Thank you for your support!

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I’ve been planning this newsletter for a while now, but the timing ended up being rather fortuitous. Gap announced their (excellent) new campaign with Troye Sivan on Wednesday, which you can watch here:

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Anyone else enjoying this quiet, uneventful week? (In case it wasn’t clear through the barrier of your inbox, I’m being sarcastic!!!!)

But this week’s Gatekeeping should, I hope, be a brief respite. In the vein of their worth-it splurges, I’ve secretly been asking past guests about their favorite cheap thrills. From socks to massages, I’m infl…

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I took last week off to travel the American West™ with my family in honor of my dad’s birthday (last year). We hit up Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell, wrapping it all up with a Las Vegas chaser. It was a blast, and as someone who hasn’t really explored the national parks, I feel newly energized about them.

Anywho…this week’s edition is a roundup of worth-it splurges from past Gatekeeping guests. What I enjoy about these picks is that rather than bags or shoes—which, for the record, we love—the predominant theme is improving quality of life. From hiring movers to buying fresh eggs, they really are worth the money.

Let’s kick it off with my own picks, shall we?

The Calm app is, I believe, the only app I pay for. I love the sleep stories and body scans, plus the 5-10 minute check-ins when I just need a short break. There’s something for every moment and need, really. Also, I started acupuncture during the pandemic, and am pretty loyal to doing it every other week; it’s one hour I can—well, must—be fully offline and shut my brain off, and it helps with everything from headaches to sore muscles.

Now, for everyone else’s picks:

“Dyson Blowdryer—other blow dryers just dont compare! And NuFace—I love seeing the results from it.” —Nikita Charuza

“Nugget Ice Machine! I love to snack on ice! When I want something crunchy this is my go-to.” —Tisha Thompson

“Thai and deep tissue massages.” —Jenny Yang

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