Under $100: Best fashion and beauty buys for December

Spritz Season

My skin can use all the moisture it can get—especially in the winter. Which is why I always have a facial mist on hand. I’m looking forward to trying this one from new-to-Canada brand Jowaé. The mist is light and refreshing, with Sakura blossom and glycerin (for hydration) and Lumiphenols (an antioxidant) to add a dose of moisture throughout the day, or to prep your skin for serums when at home. As an added bonus, the formula is 97 per cent natural, and at $19 (for 200 ml) you can spritz all winter long. - Alexandra Donaldson, fashion & beauty editor

Jowaé Hydrating Water Mist, $19, shop.beautyboutique.ca.

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In the Bag

I'm really hoping someone (*ahem* significant other) will surprise me this Christmas with this super chic backpack I've been keeping my eye on, pretty much since it was released. I love the ombre colouring and the brand even more for being completely vegan-friendly. And, if I don't receive it as a gift, I'll just have to treat myself. -Linda Cotrina, web producer

Valerie Backpack—Ombre Dusk, $95, pixiemood.com.

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Boys club

I’m a big fan of shopping in the men’s section—and my husband’s side of the closet. It’s where I find many of my favourite button-downs, sweaters and t-shirts. So when I found this perfectly relaxed men’s henley I bought one for myself and one for my guy pretty quickly. It’s the easiest casual shirt, and I’ll be sporting mine on repeat with denim on weekends. But don’t be surprised if you find this one tucked into a high-waisted pencil skirt during workdays too. - AD

Long sleeve henley, $45, gapcanada.ca.

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White Christmas

Sure, a little black dress or le smoking jacket is always on par for the party scene, but who says holiday dressing has to be so cut and dry. Try on a white dress for size, it’s unexpected but when styled with satin pumps and a festive clutch it’s a look that’s ready for any holiday fete. -Julia McEwen, Fashion & Beauty Director

White dress with belt, $70, hm.com/ca.

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Feeling dotty

Polka dots are quite possibly my favourite pattern to exist so when I saw these sheer tights covered in them, I may or may have not clapped in excitement. Perfect to wear under dresses, skirts and shorts, I'm looking forward to rocking these as much as possible this winter. -LC

Large Polka Dot Tights, $17, fromrachel.com.

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Smelling sweet

I’m always searching for a natural deodorant that will actually do a good job of keeping me feeling (and smelling) fresh. I’ve got high hopes for this Australian brand that looks more like a cream. You can opt for low-fragrance or no-fragrance options, and if you like it, you can set up a regular shipment—with shipping fees to Canada under $3. So far, I’m a fan! I haven’t noticed any odour—even on a day I was running around in a winter jacket—so I’ll definitely be stocking up. - AD

No Pong Original All-Natural Deodorant, $10, nopong.com.

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Heel happy

These shoes are, undoubtedly and without question, one of my favourite purchases of all time. Tried-and-true by none other than moi, these shoes quickly became my go-to pair for every outfit and are the perfect accent to any outfit. A short block heel provides comfort, and did I mention they’re only $30?! You’ll have a new skip in your step in these hot kicks. - Melissa Dunphy, fashion & beauty intern

Block Heel Mules, $30, forever21.com.

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Mist master

Think spa in a bottle. That’s what a face mist can do for you, deliver an immediate surge of moisture, relaxation and a refreshing pick-me-up. This limited edition of Omorovicza Queen of Hungary mist is inspired by the Queen of Hungary Water, the world’s first recorded perfume, formulated for Queen Elisabeth of Hungary in the 14th century. This refreshing neroli and rose blend is housed in a limited edition bottle that’s inspired by the architecture of the world’s first thermal baths in Hungary in the 1800s. -JM

Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist, $60, omorovicza.com.

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Bronzed babe

You can still look like a sun-kissed goddess in the winter, with just a little help from some bronzer. This matte bronzing powder by Benefit adds that much-wanted glow to any complexion. Use a little on your cheeks and all around your face to add a healthy summer shimmer. - MD

Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer, $38, benefitcosmetics.com.

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One-upped

If ever there was a time to wear a onesie, it’s Christmas morning. You’ll find me in the ever-popular Arborist onesie from the Drake General Store, with a design inspired by the outdoors. But you’ll also find classic red, a mountie-printed option and a simple night sky print in stores too if forest green isn't your jam. No matter what, you’ll be glad you wore it as you’re sipping coffee surrounded by loved ones on Christmas morning. - AD

Arborist Adventure Onesie, $60, drakegeneralstore.ca.

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Bright eyes

Try adding these retro style sunglasses to your collection. The oversized, round shape instantly infuses any look with a playful, laid-back touch. -JM

Ysodda sunglasses, $16, aldoshoes.com.

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All that glitters

’Tis the season of sparkle and shine—but if, like me, you’re not much of a glitter lover, you can still partake in the trend in a subtler way. I’ll be showing my holiday party spirit on my fingernails with a chic gold manicure just in time for Christmas dinner. While $24 might seem steep for a bottle of polish, this brand formulates without chemicals that are found in most options and promotes strong nails. Worth the splurge if you ask me. - AD

Tenoverten Nail Polish in Worth, $24, eskincarestore.com.

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Double agent

When makeup and skin care come together it's a beautiful thing. I’m crushing on these buildable highlighter sticks from Caryl Baker visage. They deliver a pretty and natural looking glow while leaving some good for you skin ingredients behind such as Vitamins C and E to protect you from free-radical damage. The kicker is the inclusion of aloe vera to soothe and moisture skin. -JM

Caryl Baker Visage Illuminating Stick in Nordic Glow,$29.50 each, carylbakervisage.com.

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