Sweetbitter Sunday Scroll

Meet our new contributor Prathigna, a New York-based writer and friend of Sauce

Sweetbitter Sunday Scroll

Greetings Saucettes!

I’m Prathigna, a friend of Sauce, a New York-based writer, and a lover of layered metaphors. Picture me as that friend who shows up at your door with hot coffee, hot gossip, and a half-eaten muffin I couldn’t resist on my way over. As your newest contributor to Sauce Sunday, I’m here to bring you musings and recommendations that are a little messy, somewhat surprising, but always comforting.

This holiday season, instead of gifting myself a lip-tinted oil or a mohair cardigan, I’ve found myself in an interesting predicament. Picture a heartbroken Kate Winslet from The Holiday, minus the LA escape—and, oh, jobless. It would make a miserably entertaining film, but it's my reality. I’m spending the holidays alone, with the hum of my loud radiator and my chatty cat, Rumi. I stopped stuffing my calendar with plans like aisle items in stockings. Instead, I’m embracing the sweet and bitter moments of being a woman just “going through it.” So, if you're nursing a broken heart, need to scale back on consumption, or simply lack inspiration, consider this your guide to low-fare recommendations that won’t break your spirit—or your budget.

WRITING: Send letters to your long-distance friends or relatives. Head to your local stationery store and find some cute letters and envelopes to practice the art of correspondence. Write to your favorite aunt, your best friend who moved to Spain, or even to yourself, reminding yourself that you survived this winter. And hey, it's also a great way to work on your questionable handwriting if that's something you can relate to. Either way, love letters are a low-effort, emotionally rewarding gift.

READING:

The Rutshire Chronicles by Jilly Cooper is making a comeback, especially after the Disney+ series Rivals reignited 80s cutthroat culture and sex appeal on screen. People are digging up their parents' or grandparents' well-worn copies of these iconic novels. If you’re lacking one in the family, don’t worry—you can be the cool relative who stashes a bit of vintage erotica for the next generation. Known for scandal and passion, the series has become an escape for anyone craving some British wit, drama, and romance.

Careering by Daisy Buchanan was a book I randomly picked up during a visit to Dublin’s oldest-running independent bookstore. At the time, I was stuck in a job I hated, and the back cover description grabbed me: "careering (verb): 1) working endlessly for a job you used to love and now resent entirely 2) moving in a way that feels out of control”

The story follows a twenty-something woman trying to break into the writing world, and a seasoned magazine editor whose career—and willpower—are unraveling due to office politics. The novel explores the hazardous line between ambition and the harsh corporate realities of life. Funny, entertaining, and slightly tragic, let this book be a sign to be careful what you wish for—especially that "dream" job.

SAVOURING: I’ve always had a palate that embraces both sweet and savory pairings. Between making cozy soups and the occasional hibernation, indulge in the ritual of snacking—Cleopatra-style. Combine those flavors, garnish with a little flair, and feel like a goddess from an ancient civilization in your own living room. Whether you’re basking in candlelight with roommates or pretending to host a solo dinner party, these pairings make you feel like royalty—without the “I’m probably starving” or “Trader Joe’s mixed nuts” part.

My Top 5 Pairings:

• Green Apples & Manchego

• Pomegranate Seeds & Prosciutto

• Grapes & Roasted Pecans

• Olives & Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds

• Pears & Honeyed Pistachios

To elevate your snacking ritual, consider gifting (if you’re financially stable) a stunning, made-to-order bowl from AdrienArt on Etsy. It's the perfect vessel for displaying your fruits, nuts, and cheeses—ideal for turning any snack into a grand affair.

STYLING: FW 2024 Moodboard

As a die-hard fan of gold jewellery and earthy tones, I took a sharp turn with my Fall/Winter 24 wardrobe inspiration. I’ve found myself drawn to silvers, grey tones, and metallics, layered in textured pieces. Though grey tones often get a drab reputation, their versatility is captivating. The shades they offer, ranging from pale yellows to grey blues, hold real potential. It’s a shift toward cooler, yet equally rich tones that feel both bold and celestial.

I think there’s a way to bring kitschy New Year’s Eve bling into everyday comfort wear this winter. Instead of the over-the-top sparkle, incorporate metallics, soft silvers, and shimmering accents into subtle, wearable pieces. Think black and grey knitwear with chunky silver rings and ivory and bone-colored bangles, or chromatic blue eyeshadow as a statement to an all-silver monochrome look.

WATCHING: [TV + FILM]

Binge all 3 Industry holiday episodes if you recently went home from your corporate holiday party stone-cold sober, without a sexy colleague on your arm, and moderately happy. Maybe next year we should bring the Industry energy and mischief—minus the drugs (well, maybe not all of them). Or at least unbutton that shirt a bit. Watch on HBO Max.

Revisit Squid Game—even if it doesn’t exactly scream holiday cheer, it’s a visceral, intense ride you should brace yourself for before the gory madness of S2 drops the day after Christmas, on Dec 26th. Watch on Netflix.

Watch Someone to Watch Over Me (1987) - a wintery noir romance, set against the cold, chic streets of the Upper East Side. Think 80s dark elegance—sleek coats, moody vibes, and an unlikely and questionable romance that plays out with tension and intrigue. Watch on Tubi.

Bildquelle: Someone to Watch Over Me (1987), Copyright: Columbia

Watch Serendipity (2001) - a light Christmas romance that can make even the harshest cynic believe in its namesake. It's my ultimate comfort movie that I re-watch every December, reminding me to check the fortune cookies I've saved and remember all the angel numbers I've encountered. John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale offer charming, contrasting views on love and destiny, with playful, thoughtful dialogue. It’s the perfect film for anyone who believes in fate—or just wants to entertain the idea. Watch on HBO Max.

Lastly this month, our website is brimming with so much newness, including our saucy gift guide and our December horoscope.

Until next time,

Prathigna