Gift Guide 2015: Part 3

I’ve done a couple posts based on gift genre, but now we’re going to focus on one recipient per post. Let’s start with the women, here we go!

Accessories 

Anthro scarf

Let’s start by shooting fish in a barrel and go with a scarf. A woman can never have too many scarves. You can find scarves anywhere, but one of my favorite scarf places is Anthro because they’re always have a unique and beautiful selection. It’s a great option because you can find something for almost any budget, and any occasion. I love their infinity loops like the one above. I have a couple and I wear them with a jacket in cold weather, or over a plain dress at work to create an outfit. You can also go really cold weather with something like this.

Minkoff Earring

When it comes to jewelry, I usually stick with my strengths and buy earrings for gifts (make sure the recipient has pierced ears!). I try to get something that is somewhere between my style and the recipient’s style so they’ll know it’s from me, but it works within their repertoire. I love ear climbers because they are fashion forward but very easy to wear. It’s somehow statement and subtle at the same time which makes it a versatile gift. I’m loving Rebecca Minkoff earrings right now (like above), and Kate Spade also always has some festive options. Just make sure to explain that you wear them so they follow the curve of your ear rather than a drop.

For the Home

West Elm Jewelry

Now that you got her earrings, she’s going to need something to store them in. A jewelry box is great for the younger crowd, because I feel like the older crowd already has their jewelry storage on point. That said, everyone needs a new ring dish for the dresser or bedside table. West Elm has a lot of great jewelry boxes and trinket dishes in several different patterns and sizes.

Anthro Candles

Candles, like scarves, might seem cliche, but I think they’re always a good option for good friends and new acquaintances alike. Anthro always has some great options that are really beautiful as well (love the Voluspa brand). Scented candles are sold everywhere, but I also love the options at Paper Source, Bath & Body Works, West Elm, and Target.

Beauty and Clothing

Sephora Favorites

Every woman has her favorites when it comes to makeup, but it’s always fun to mix it up from time to time. I love the “Sephora Favorites” samplers that have several good sized designer brand samples at a great price. They have samplers with mascara, eye liner, lip stick, and more. If you know the recipient is partial to one of these items, it’s a home run. On the flip side, if the recipient it partial to a specific brand, you can always get a palette or gift set from that brand. Also consider a perfume sampler.

UA sweatshirt

I often shy away from buying women clothes for presents because I do not like receiving clothes myself. There are too many variables of size, fit, style, etc. That said, there are few pieces that have some wiggle room, like sweatshirts (I can’t get enough). Fashionable sweatshirts are very in right now, and I love the above style from Under Armour. It’s ageless, and sleek but casual. It’s great if your recipient is always running off to yoga class, or if they’re running errands. There’s a very similar option from Zella (Nordstrom’s private label), an even sportier option from Athleta, a girlier option from Banana, a great cowl neck from Bobeau, and an awesome lounge look from Bobeau too.

Technology

Portable Power

Portable cell phone chargers make life convenient when you’re on the run. They seem to be popping up everywhere these days. Shopping around, it’s hard to figure out how much power each option actually has. I know QVC has some solid options like the ones above, but Best Buy has several, and even some big fashion brands are getting in the game.

 Cord Organizer

When it comes to the cords, the more organization, the better. This cool leather case will keep cords untangled and in their place in a sophisticated way. It’s perfect for busy ladies to throw in a handbag or luggage. Mark and Graham also has an earbud case as well.

What are you getting the ladies this year?

Cyber Monday Round Up

Here are the deals I’ve tracked so far (in no particular order):

And you know the Targets, Amazons, and Best Buys or the world have all manner of crazy deals.

Happy Shopping!

Holiday Party Attire: Daytime Affairs

Holiday celebrations, annual get togethers with friends, or daytime work parties create a lot of outfit opportunities in December. For daytime holiday parties either at work or around town, I need plaid, metallics, festive patterns, and some seasonal mixed media.

Outfit 1

Holiday Outfit 1

Outfit number one is a statement maker, but around the holidays, I think more is always more. I think these pieces make an impact together, but can be worn separately throughout the season for several outfits. I have and love this super soft plaid shirt from JCrew Factory. The fun metallic skirt from Banana provides texture and formality contrast (this from JCrew factory is also festive, or there are some shiny pants and a similar skirt from Loft). The tights are DKNY and the shoes are Vince Camuto.

Outfit 2

HolidayOutfit2

For a whimsical but slightly sleeker look, it would be great to do a non-ugly holiday sweater with a fashion forward pant. Something like this sweater from the Loft (it’s hard to tell but it’s white and navy), another fun Loft option, or a fun fair isle pattern. Even though it’s very trendy, the drapey pant can be both comfortable and flattering. This look would also be great with a velvet or faux leather pant. And then finish it with a classic metallic pointy toe pump or another neutral pump in your closet.

Outfit 3

holidayoutfit3

Outfit number three is a far cozier and casual look, great for a cold day. A cable sweater dress like this one from the Gap can hide a multitude of sins (or christmas cookies) and a cable sweater is festive by default. Pairing it with flat booties and cozy tights makes it extra easy. Top it with an infinity scarf and you’re all set!

Don’t forget: the key to any holiday outfit is the holiday earrings!

Earrings