How to Have the Ultimate Cozy Night In: 6 Essentials for an Indulgent Evening at Home

As much as I love to go out and do things, the last couple of years have honestly made me realize how much I appreciate being at home. I’ve really grown to enjoy the act of slowing down, cuddling up on the couch in my favorite loungewear, and having an indulgent, leisurely night alone.

I work really, really hard, but I also take my relaxation and self-care very seriously—which is why I decided to put together a list of ideas for how to have the ultimate cozy night in.

Whether you’re flying solo, spending time with a significant other, or hosting the ultimate cozy night in with a girlfriend, this list of ideas should help spark some inspiration. I hope you find it helpful!

1. Dress for the occasion.

Let’s start with the most essential aspect to a cozy night in: the outfit.

If you’re not comfortable, it’s hard to truly unwind. Slip into your favorite loungewear set before turning on a movie so you can be cozy all night.

I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you about the lounge sets from Summersalt, which is a brand I’ve adored for years. The pieces I have from them are literally called “the coziest cashmere blend jogger” and “the luxe cashmere blend funnel neck sweater.”

The pieces come in a bunch of different colors, so you can wear them as a set, or mix and match. Plus, because they’re a cashmere blend, they’re warm but still lightweight.

If you’re not into cashmere, opt for a cozy crew neck and joggers. Some of my favorite recent finds are below!

Waffle Knit Lounge Set

Vuori Boyfriend Jogger

Naadam Heart Cashmere Sweater

French Terry Relaxed Crew

2. Stock up on some seriously fancy snacks.

If you’re looking to elevate your “cozy night in” experience, you might consider upgrading your snack selection.

I’m all for a bag of basic BBQ chips from the grocery store, but when I’m feeling particularly bougie, I stock up on fancy things: think Compartes chocolate bars, Dada mixed nuts, Sugarfina candy, and Behave gummy bears.

3. Pretend you’re at a spa.

To really kick off your cozy night in, take a hot shower, cover yourself in your favorite body cream or CBD balm, and apply your favorite hair mask/leave-in conditioner.

While these are all really simple acts, they truly feel like tiny luxuries that will make your night in even more relaxing.

Amika Nourishing Hair Mask

If your hair is dry, damaged, or dull, this mask will be a lifesaver. Run a wide-toothed comb through your hair to evenly distribute the product, and then put your hair in a bun or loose braid.

Slip Silk Scrunchies

Whenever I have a hair mask in, I like to use silk scrunchies as I find them to be the most gentle on my hair. These are super good quality and will hold up for years!

Ouai Body Creme

While you have a hair mask in you might as well offer your skin an extra dose of hydration as well. This body creme is so good that it made my list of best beauty products of 2021. The scent totally won me over because it’s delicate and fresh.

4. Light a fancy candle.

Of course, I’m partial to Hotel Lobby Candle (the brand I launched!) because it truly evokes the feeling of being in a five-star hotel lobby.

Our best-selling Linen Candle has notes of pink pepper, sandalwood, and linen and is the perfect addition to a night in.

But truthfully, any candle will do. Dim your lights, grab a plush blanket and light your candle. Yes, even the “nice” ones that you planned on saving for a special occasion.

One important tip: in order to get the most out of it, make sure that you’re burning your candle the right way.

5. Prep a binge-worthy movie line up.

I am absolutely obsessed with documentaries, and I’ve been meaning to share a list of my favorites with you for a while—so this seems like the perfect place to do it! Below, check out some of the ones that were top of mind.

I’ll add to this list as I continue to remember my faves! Please note: I’m partial to true crime and things that most people would consider to be dark/disturbing (LOL) so if that’s your jam, you’ll love my list.

• The Way Down
• Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed
• Sour Grapes
• American Murder: The Family Next Door
• David Foster: Off the Record
• 14 Peaks
• Clive Davis: The Soundtrack Of Our Lives
• Juice WRLD: Into the Abyss
• Jagged
• Seaspiracy
• The Orange Years: The Nickelodeon Story
• Mommy Dead & Dearest
• I Love You, Now Die
• At the Heart of Gold
• The Staircase
• Bill Cunningham New York
• The September Issue
• Blackfish
• American Murder
• The Social Dilemma
• Dear Zachary
• Leaving Neverland
• Jiro Dreams of Sushi
• Iris
• RBG
• Searching for Sugarman
• Capturing the Friedmans
• Won’t You Be My Neighbor
• Free Solo
• Amy
• Abducted in Plain Sight
• Three Identical Strangers
• The Central Park Five
• The Keepers
• 13th
• Tiger King
• Grizzly Man
• Class Action Park

6. Indulge in a cup of spicy hot chocolate.

You know I love wine as much as the next person, but recently I tried a new hot chocolate recipe using a pinch of cayenne pepper and oat milk (which I blended with a handheld frother) and it was EVERYTHING.

Have any favorite movies that I didn’t list here? Drop your recommendations in the comments below!

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