Alexandra Kathryn Mosca — Exploring Life and Death: A Writer's Journey

As a little girl and well into my teens, I loved the lead-up to the holidays. One of my favorite things was my annual Advent Calendar. Each day before Christmas, I looked forward to opening the flap to see what surprise was awaiting me.

All these years later, I still love advent calendars. I buy them as early gifts for friends and as gifts to myself. Even though today, the ingredients are spelled out on websites, it’s still fun to see the merchandise in person. Here are some of my favorites for this year.

Replica Fragrance Advent Calendar — $120

The Maison Margiela Perfume and Fragrance Advent Calendar sports seven numbered drawers crafted in Maison Margiela’s eye-catching Bianchetto overpaint design. Behind each drawer one of Jo Malone’s fabulous Replica scents can be found in the form of cologne, body care, or travel size candles. One of my favorite things about this advent calendar is the inclusion of By the Fire Eau de Toilette. It is a perfect seasonal scent, in a 30ml size.

Macy’s 12 Days of Luxury Advent Calendar —$120

A number of department stores offer their own Advent Calendar, and Macy’s is one of them. Their Advent Calendar is filled with a mix of Macy’s most popular products from their most-loved brands. Behind the doors, you’ll find high-quality lip glosses from Carolina Herrera and Armani. You will also find Eau de Parfums from Cartier and Viktor & Rolf. There’s an eye crème from Estée Lauder, too. And the best part? You can enjoy all these premium products with free shipping.

Bobbi Brown’s Dazzle & Glow 12-Day Advent Calendar  –$195 

Bobbi Brown’s Advent Calendar contains three full size products. These include a Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Golden Bronze. There is also an Extra Plump Lip Serum in Bare Pink and a Smokey Eye Mascara in Black. These products have a combined value of Over $114. Additionally, there are nine travel size products. Among the travel size are cleansing oil, lipstick, serum and highlighting powder.

Neiman Marcus Beauty Holiday Advent Calendar –$225

Neiman Marcus goes all out for the holidays. Like their annual Holiday Book, their annual Holiday Advent Calendar, a limited-edition collection of deluxe beauty samples, also promises to surprise and delight. It’s 25 days of premium cologne, cleansers, masks, serum, lipstick, and styling oil from brands like La Mer and Christian Louboutin, It also includes a delicious-smelling vanilla powder by Maltiere Premiere.

Vogue Festive Calendar –$465

The most oversize advent calendar comes from British Vogue. It is also the most luxurious on my list, garnering lots and lots of positive reviews. Its 25 days are filled with high-end beauty products. Additionally, it contains a pair of cashmere socks, a silk scarf, and earrings. And that’s not all. You’ll also receive a one-year digital subscription to British Vogue, keeping you connected and up-to-date with the latest fashion trends. Another plus is that a portion of their profit will be shared with three women’s charities.

Jo Malone London Advent Calendar — $495

Jo Malone’s 25-day Advent Calendar, the priciest on my list, may come with a hefty price tag. Yet, for those who appreciate the art of fragrance, this is a rare chance to indulge in a variety of Jo Malone’s signature scents. The set is a delightful mix of travel candles, body crèmes, and fragrances, offering a diverse olfactory experience. It even includes a vial of Fir and Artemisia, a perfect seasonal touch, and a full-size bottle of Orange Bitters, a limited-edition fragrance inspired by  a “delectable winter’s cocktail.”

The company also offers the Twelve Days of Ornament Gifts (Price $240). This includes a selection of miniature colognes, travel candles, and bath & body treats. Each item is individually wrapped in a decorative ornament.