2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Part IV

With Christmas only days away, the holiday season is in full swing, which means there are bound to be many parties and festive get-togethers to attend (if you haven't already!). It may also mean that the stress of season is getting the best of you, and you're ready to re-gift last year's secret santa present, in order to avoid the quest for a parking spot at the mall. Whatever your case may be, hopefully you will find a moment to remember the best part of the holidays: getting together with family and friends. After all the hustle and bustle, the abundance of desserts covered in almond bark, and the hype of finding a kiss at midnight, all that really matters are the people you spend the holidays with. So whether you're attending a holiday party or hosting one of your own, my last and final gift guide is inspired by gifts that would be perfect for anyone who loves to cook, entertain, or just plain party!

1. Z Gallerie Wine Cork Spreaders
2. DVF Decal Dessert Plates
3. Sur La Table Wild Rose Hand Soap
4. Jonathan Adler Brass Muse Bottle Opener
5. Target Bamboo Spatulas
6. Terrain Chicken Kitchen Timer
7. Z Gallerie Eiffel Tower Salt & Pepper Shakers
8. Terrain Soapstone Wine Cooler
9. Jonathan Adler Jet Set Coasters

2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Part III

Growing up, my family often traveled for the holidays, which explains why I've found myself frequently distracted by thoughts of snow-capped mountains and cozy ski lodges. Some of my favorite memories involve getting up in the early hours of the morning and squeezing into our family's mini van, only to awake several hours later as we wound through snow covered mountain passes. This year we will be spending Christmas close to home, but that doesn't mean I can't wear my coziest boots and sip a mug of hot chocolate, as if I've spent a day on the slopes. Here is a roundup of a few gift ideas that would be perfect for any mountain-bound friends, or anyone (like me) who wishes they were!

1. Terrain Hickory Coaster Set
2. Terrain Candy Cane Mug
3. Anthropologie Spiced Eggnog Candle
4. The North Face Peruvian Cable Beanie
5. Pendleton Lumberman Blanket
6. Anthropologie Antler Bottle Opener
7. Anthropologie Fairisle Sweater Shorts
8. Sorel Tofino Boot

2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Part II

One would think that after years of abiding by a mandatory school dress code, consisting mainly of plaid skirts, navy pants, and polo shirts, that even the thought of wearing another sweater vest would make me cringe. Surprisingly enough, I haven't found that to be true. Although my style has evolved a lot since then, I still find myself drawn to the occasional collared shirt, tailored jacket or plaid accessory. Whatever your style, you're bound to have a few classic, go-to pieces in your closet with that same timeless appeal. So it comes as no surprise, that some of the best gifts I've received, are ones I have been using for years and still can't get enough of. Which is why I suggest, if you're still stumped on what gifts to give this holiday, try going for tried and true instead of the latest and greatest.

1. Gap Cable Knit Pom-Pom Hat
2. Terrain Zig-Zag Hook
3. Soixante Neuf Oval Engraved Ring
4. J Crew Luggage Tag
5. Madewell Leather Transport Tote
6. J Crew Pearl Stud Earrings
7. Forever 21 Plaid Scarf
8. Terrain Slate Cheese Board
9. Hunter Rain Boot

2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Part I

Over the weekend we had our first significant snowfall of the season, which quickly got me into the holiday spirit. Not that my increased consumption of all things pumpkin flavored and the premature sound of holiday music hadn't already worked it's magic, but a fresh blanket of snow seems to make everything just a bit more festive. So, as I sat admiring the work I had done decorating my tree, I realized that there was something missing. Oh, yeah... presents. For some reason a Christmas tree just doesn't look complete without colorfully wrapped packages adorned with giant bows! So, if you're like me, and have a ways to go in order to get everyone "checked off your list," then here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Laura Mercier Book of Nudes
2. ModCloth Cat Eye Sunglasses
3. Bauble Bar Bow Studs
4. Madewell Leopard Ballet Flats
5. Stella & Dot Pearl Bib Necklace
6. Ban.do Pom Pom Bobbi Pins
7. Forever 21 Cosmetic Bag
8. Kate Spade Ski Hat

ALL THAT GLITTERS

I haven't had a glitter obsession since the 5th grade, when I would spend my hard-earned allowance on glittery lotions, nail polish, and body glitter, but this season that's all about to change. Other than the occasional craft project, glitter just wasn't my thing. I saw it as cheap, gaudy, and a little over-the-top, but with the holiday season upon us, I can't seem to get enough! Of course this trend is best in moderation, picking a few bold accessories to pair with basics, instead of turning yourself into a human disco ball. I suggest trying a glitzy manicure or pairing your LBD with a few glittery accessories to kick your look up a notch for the holiday season.

1. Sephora by OPI  Glitter and Sparkle Nail Lacquer
2. J. Crew Glitter iPhone Case
3. Kate Spade Sparkler Missy Clutch
4. Juicy Couture Gemstone Cluster Ring
5. Lulu Frost Drift Cuff
6. Topshop Super Skinny Glitter Belt
7. ASOS Pepper Platform Mary Jane
8. Topshop Metallic Glitter Shorts

ANYTHING BUT BASIC

 

 

Black is often referred to as "basic," and I'm sure you will agree with me, that often times it's the easiest way to look put together without having to try too hard. We've all been there. Staring into our closets trying to decide what to wear, when finally we whip together some little number without much of a thought, and all of a sudden you've received 5 compliments before you've clocked-in for work in the morning. That's exactly what this lookbook made me think of. These ensembles are so effortless, yet intriguing at the same time. Forget "basic black." You can still turn heads when combining the right fit, minimal accessories, and a close attention to details.

Images & clothing can be found here.