Holiday Gift Guide: My Best Friend

Shopping for your best friend is like shopping for yourself -- it's the best! This is always one of the most fun gifts to buy. I have lots of great ideas, so now the only problem is deciding which one to pick...

WHO I'M SHOPPING FOR: my best friend

She's smart and fun with lots of interests and a great eye. She has a little one and has a hard time remembering to take time for herself, so I'm making sure that her gift is purely for her enjoyment (nothing that she'll end up "sharing" with her husband or kiddo). She knows that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but she also makes sure her cover is always flawless.

WHO YOU'RE SHOPPING FOR: the person on your list who deserves some pampering...a new mom...a friend with excellent taste...someone who appreciates the little details.

Sunday Riley Power Couple Kit, $70

A very luxurious set from one of the hottest skincare lines. She'll think of you every time someone compliments her glowing skin.

Confetti Wine Glasses, $80

These are the prettiest wine glasses and will be perfect for fancying up a special dinner or taking the edge off on a Tuesday night. Adding a favorite bottle of wine would be a nice touch.

Monogrammed Sunshine Satchel, $120

She may not be taking long jaunts to Europe right now, but a long weekend away is totally doable. The black/tan/cream color combo is elegant, and a monogram makes everything better.

Mesa Moonstone and Druzy Cuff Bracelet, $345

For someone who has been very, very good. Moonstone and white druzy are two of my favorites -- dreamy, ethereal stones that go with everything. This simple bangle is unassuming and easy to wear every day, with enough sparkle to feel special.

Evil Eye Heart Dish, $98

One of my jobs is to protect to protect my best friend from bullshit, assholes, haters, and other evil-doers. I love the idea of this sweet but kickass little dish to stand guard when I'm not around -- it's also a stylish little way to store jewelry, keys, and other little treasures. I'd wrap it up with something fun, like some homemade cookies or a handful of old school lip glosses.

Rainbow Key Fob, $98

She'd never splurge on something like this, but you can. It's pricey, but just think about how many times a day she'll pull her keys out and smile. A little everyday luxury goes a long way.

Striped Sleepset, $78

The cutest, coziest jammies are perfect for lazy Sundays and Netflix date nights. Give them to her before Christmas morning so she'll look effortlessly perfect for the present-opening photos.

Belle Calligraphy Kit, $20

I don't think anyone has time for hobbies anymore, but this calligraphy kit is perfect for the busy creative type. My best friend Sara is really crafty and would probably be great at this -- I might go a step further and buy her an online class so she can really master all of the swirly strokes.

Bite Lip Lab Custom Lipstick, $45

This was actually what I gave Sara for her birthday last year and let me tell you, it was a big hit (there may have been tears...). Bite Beauty has the coolest Lip Lab in SoHo where you can have a custom lipstick shade mixed just for you (you can read about my visit here). This is the perfect gift for the lipstick-lover in your life -- I mean really, what price can you put on finding "your" shade? If a trip to NYC isn't in the cards, this Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip set is a lot of fun. I'd also add this cheeky little makeup pouch, because she who has the reddest lipstick does indeed win.

Mini Messenger Bucket Bag, $50

She knows you'd buy her a Chanel bag if you could, but she'll love that you were nice enough to snag her this inspired-by version.

Kule Cashmere Breton Sweater, $285

I don't know a woman who doesn't love a classic striped Breton shirt. There are lots of great cotton ones out there, but how about a cashmere upgrade? She'll wear this to death and love you forever. (PS: Land's End has an almost identical one at a very reasonable price)

Custom Portrait Stationery, $200 and up

Personalized stationery featuring a darling custom portrait, from one of the most popular paper goods companies -- HOW GREAT IS THIS??? If there is a lady on your list who understands the power of a great handwritten letter, this is a winner. (And if these cards are a bit out of your price range, you could find a pretty set of notecards and order some personalized stamps to go with them -- pets and kids are super cute)

If you need a few little extras, consider...

These little pots of goodness from RMS Beauty -- the luminizer and lip shine are favorites of J. Crew's stylists.

A silly candle, because when she played MASH as a kid she always got mansion.

An adorable pouch for business cards, because she makes leaning in look great.

This great little balm in a pretty tin (I gave so many of these last year, love them!).

A little extra sparkle for her tree (pretty ornaments make great package decorations).

What's In My Bag

A "what's in my bag" post is among my favorite in the blogosphere...what can I say, nosiness is my guilty pleasure! A few weeks ago I switched from my usual summer bags (mostly smaller crossbody type bags) to a good fall bag. I've gotten myself sorted with what I need to carry on a daily basis, so I thought I'd share a peek inside...



BAG: My go-to bag right now is this roomy Zara shoulder bag that I picked up over the summer (currently sold out, similar here). It's lightweight and spacious, and it goes with just about everything.

ESSENTIALS: There are a few things that I always have with me. First, my wallet (I'm using this pretty rose gold one) -- I prefer a large zipper style wallet, which I stuff to the max with the usual (credit cards, cash, gift cards), as well as every receipt I've ever received (except the ones I need to turn in for work, never seem to have those), discount and reward cards, movie ticket stubs, coins from foreign countries I have no plans to visit, month-old to-do lists, and public transit cards from at least 3 different cities.

I also carry sunglasses, my keys (I like my tassel keyring -- here's a similar one -- though I'm on the lookout for something new), some all-purpose wipes, headphones (the ones I use are similar to these, with a built-in mic for phone calls), and my iPhone with this pretty Rifle Paper Co. case. I'm a bit more reliant on my phone than I'd like, but these days it is essential -- I use it for entertainment, navigation, note-taking, keeping track of my schedule. Finally, I always have this magical little reloadable gift card for my many trips to EPCOT's Food and Wine Festival. You wear it around your wrist and just tap, tap, tap when you want something tasty to eat or drink. Food and Wine is the social event of the year and I find myself there a few times a week, so I never leave home without it.

POUCH #1: I'm a big fan of keeping small items in pouches. It makes everything so easy to find, and it also lets me keep my sanity when I need to quickly swap bags. For makeup, I love a little mesh pouch (ideally one that is compact, flat, and lightweight so that I can have my essentials close at hand -- these are great). I'm not someone who is going to redo a full face of makeup on the go, so I just carry some touch-up basics -- my favorite eyeliner and mascara, a good lip balm, and lately I've added a mini sized Benefit Posie Tint (perfect for just a hint of lip and cheek color). I love this little travel perfume atomizer (so easy to fill) for a bit of freshening -- Sephora's rollerballs are insanely expensive, this is a much better option. Aquaphor is great to dab onto cuts, dry spots, blisters, etc. Finally, some hand sanitizer for emergencies -- I don't know how safe any of these products are, but I hope that this one from the Honest Company isn't the worst of the bunch.

POUCH #2: This is where I carry the things that aren't essentials but just so nice to have (if I switch to a smaller bag, this pouch stays home). This luxe hand cream is very handy, especially this time of year (this was a Sephora Black Friday deal from last year and I still have a bit left -- fingers crossed we see it again this year!). Healthy snacks are nice -- these almonds keep me from running to the king-size Snickers. I love this sunblock stick, perfect for reapplying throughout the day (I always miss a spot!). As a runner, I have hair elastics and safety pins in every pocket and drawer, so I throw a few in my pouch as well. I'm not a big gum chewer, but it's nice to be have just in case I need to make sure my breath is minty fresh. I try to keep a pen or two with me, and for some reason I'm carrying around this metallic Sharpie right now. I like to have a flash drive on me -- mine has some work files, but sometimes I have photos, music and fun stuff to carry around. And I love this little tape measure (I got mine from Pier 1 years ago, but this one is adorable). So handy!

Champagne Tastes, Beer Budget

If you're anything like me, you may find that your tastes occasionally exceed your budget. And by occasionally, I mean every single day of my entire life. The good news is that it is often pretty easy to find a similar, more budget-friendly version of the item you're lusting after. I'm not talking knock-offs, because that's just tacky. For me, going cheaper this doesn't work all the time. There's something to be said for the quality and durability (and sometimes, the luxury) of higher priced items (not to mention the very real issues created by the fast fashion industry). But designers across many brands are inspired by the same trends, so sometimes you can scratch that itch for less. Here are some of my favorite high/low options right now:

DAY

This style of sturdy black heel is a great addition to any closet. It's simple and timeless without being boring, and looks great with dresses or pants. DvF's version has a mini platform and a slightly almond-shaped toe, making them flattering and walkable. H&M's version is nearly identical (even more evident in person). If you'd wear these heels all the time, the higher quality version is a good investment and probably infinitely more comfortable.

A roomy duffel in a classic plaid print seems like a smart buy -- think of it sitting in your closet, just waiting for fall weekend adventures. This Abercrombie & Fitch tote seems like it would be great for long weekends or even just a busy Saturday. Old Navy's version is larger and might fit a week's worth of clothes (if you're a brilliant packer!).

A denim shirtdress ticks a lot of fall boxes: 70's vibe, cool denim, etc. The Alexa Chung x AG Jeans dress has an edgy downtown vibe. H&M's version is softer and more relaxed, perfect for work or play.

If you're looking for a smart plaid coat, this is your lucky year. This Tory Burch coat is so elegant and ladylike, and a great investment if you live in a part of the world where you'll be wearing a coat often. I was really tempted by this very similar H&M topper -- I particularly love it because it isn't lined, so it's light weight makes it perfect for my neck of the woods (Central Florida rarely sees temps lower than the mid-60s). 

NIGHT

Right now I don't have anyplace to wear a dramatic lace gown, and that's a damn shame. This Suno lace midi dress is modern and elegant but a bit pricey (and available in ridiculously limited sizes). I actually love this full-length version from H&M more, and for just $70 it might make sense to pick it up and wait for the right event to appear (this seems like a good time to link to one of my favorite posts about learning to shop your closet).

Statement earrings don't get quite as much love as statement necklaces, but sometimes they're just the way to finish a look. I love these Oscar de la Renta beauties -- they have so much energy and plenty of sparkle. For the same effect (but a little less dough), these Bollywood-esque drops are fun.

A long gold maxi skirt probably isn't on the top of your fall shopping list, but maybe it should be. This sparkly alice + olivia skirt would be so pretty for parties or maybe even a fall wedding (I've always wanted to attempt a Sharon Stone moment and wear a crisp button down with a full skirt). I also really love Anthropologie's version, which is much more toned down and appropriate for day or night.

Unbelievably, I found a near dupe for my beloved deco heel shoes. The Kate Spade heels still give me major heart-eyes -- I love that sparkly stacked heel. Zara's version has a very similar effect, though the mirrored heel is replaced by a clear heel with gold detail. I haven't seen it in person, but I trust the heel veers more high fashion and less stripper.

Wishlist Wednesday: Pretty in Plaid

It's fall, y'all. Let's get cozy this week and love on some plaid:

clockwise from l to r:

1. Adam Lippes x Target Crepe Blouse in Painterly Blue Plaid ($30) -- I'm pretty excited to check out the upcoming Adam Lippes collab at Target (hits stores on September 27). I expect this will not be the shit show that was Lily Pulitzer, and the plaid-themed pieces look cozy and modern. This blouse is a cool take on the traditional plaid pattern and would be perfect with ankle pants or skinny jeans for an easy, pulled together look.

2. Isabel Marant Etoile Red Plaid Wool Rusty Tote ($280) -- love this classic bag shape in a timeless print.

3. Aeropostale Plaid Woven Shirt ($30) -- I'm pretty particular about the fit of a plaid shirt. I like a slim cut shirt that skims the body but still gives you room to move. This one looks like it fits the bill, and I love the touches of blue in the pattern.

4. Keds x Kate Spade New York Triple Decker ($85) -- a great little casual sneaker, and the hot pink color is fun and unexpected.

5. Madewell Tartan Mix Scarf ($44) -- I'm planning on adding a blanket scarf in a cool black watch plaid pattern to my wardrobe. So great against basic black, navy, and camel.

6. Tory Burch Stretch Poplin Skirt ($250) -- endless outfit opportunities with this neutral plaid skirt.

7. Adam Lippes x Target Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats ($30) -- if these are moderately comfortable they are going to become my favorite go-to fall shoe.

Three Ways: Cashmere Cardigan

Current status: daydreaming about fall 

Even though I may not be partaking in the usual fall shopping frenzy (at least right away), I love seeing what's hitting the stores and I'm putting together a little series of posts with the must-haves on my fall shopping list.  Nothing says fall more than a cozy cashmere sweater, and Uniqlo does affordable cashmere well. I'm really digging this pretty Elsa-esque blue color -- it's unexpected for fall (and would easily transition into winter and spring), and it's the kind of shade that's almost universally flattering.

Late Night Ice Cream Run:

Last night we enjoyed a rare treat in Central Florida: a clear, cool evening. Now that summer is starting to wind down, you may find yourself needing an extra layer once the sun goes down. Throw on your new cardigan over a cute tee and relaxed shorts for a late evening stroll (preferably right over to the ice cream shop). I don't always like to drag my purse everywhere, so a cute wallet is perfect here. And I love the combo of bright pink with bright blue -- these sandals are almost sold out, but you should absolutely grab them if your size is still in stock.

Best in Cubicle:

Some days, you just want everyone to take notice. These wide-leg red pants are very bold and super awesome. Pairing two bold primary colors might feel a little Kindergarten-esque, but a patterned blouse in a softer color palette is the bridge to a sophisticated and very grown-up look. I'd stick with accessories that are simple but not at all boring: a chic, sturdy shoe, gold studs, a totally practical gray satchel, and my favorite chunky gold watch with a black dial.

Gallery Hopping:

This funky librarian look is perfect for low-key evening plans -- checking out your friend's show at the local art gallery, perhaps. This printed shift dress is so timeless (a great little wardrobe workhorse) though perhaps a bit short for a tall girl, so I'd wear with tights to avoid endless fidgeting. This peacock colored necklace is really pretty and different. A cute mini satchel backpack is a fun twist on a classic style. And finally, my beloved chunky sandals would be just darling here.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favorites

We are in the dog days of summer in sticky Florida, but thanks to Nordstrom I have fall on my mind. It's Anniversary Sale time!

I love the idea of this sale -- a chance to pick up some of fall's best pieces, discounted right from the start. If you hate playing the waiting-for-the-best-price game, this is the sale for you. Today is the first day that the general public can shop the sale -- here are some of my favorite pieces:

Thinking Snow

Warm winter coats are one of the best deals to snag during this sale. I don't really have a need for one right now, but if I was in the market I'd definitely consider this pretty pink boucle coat. And I never feel like spending money on a practical coat like this long down parka, but it's a very smart buy.

Feeling Splurge-y

I'm drooling over some of the amazing bags included in this sale. This Marc Jacobs hobo is so classic -- the bright tangelo color is happy and fun. And if you are in the mood to treat yourself, this Chloe tote would be happy to oblige. 

Not-so-practical shoes

Fall is a great time to add a fabulous pair of shoes (or two) to your wardrobe. These studded Rebecca Minkoff pumps are serious enough for the office but cool enough for happy hour and beyond. And I love this sharp pair of lipstick pink heels -- work shoes don't have to be boring!

Statement Pieces 

Nordstrom has a fantastic selection of accessories, and there are some great options on sale. These oversized cat eye glasses are super cute. They may feel dated next year, so buy them for less and wear the hell out of them all fall. And I'm bored with the same old bib necklaces we've seen everywhere, but this sleek Alexis Bittar necklace is unique and just as eye-catching. (This would make a great Christmas gift, if you're ready to think ahead).

Wednesday Wishlist: The Bright Stripes

It is no secret I love a good stripe -- I have approximately one million classic striped shirts in all variations of black, white, and navy, and I frequently have to stop by myself from buying more (but this one has slightly thinner stripes! And this one has tiny buttons on the shoulder!).

Right now I'm digging a different stripe-y vibe -- bold, vibrant, and almost obnoxiously bright, these candy colored stripes are a perfect way to go screaming into summer.

(clockwise from l to r):

J. Crew Pleated Shell with Metallic Stripe ($158) -- I love this light and airy blouse with unexpected foil accents. If you're lucky enough to work in an office where you can get away with a bit of flash, this could be a fun little wardrobe workhorse.

Dash and Albert Rainbow Striped Tote ($65) -- I'm a sucker for a rainbow stripe, and I love a great roomy tote. I'm reminded of Marie Kondo's magic rule about possessions, and this one is a joy sparker for sure!

Diane von Furstenberg Rose Dress ($468) -- DvF does great dresses, and this one is no exception. Sure, it isn't your classic-wrap-dress-investment-piece-that-you'll-wear-forever, but it would be a fun buy if the right sale came along.

Mara Hoffman Romper ($168) -- I loved this gauzy rainbow print fabric in the shirtdress/beach coverup, and it works perfectly in a sweet little romper. If you're a child of the 80s, this should be a great hit of sartorial nostalgia.

Tory Burch Silk Shorts ($250) -- these crazy shorts are actually made of silk -- the knit yarn effect is just a print. Perfect with a crisp white button down and an easy pair of slides.

Boden Holiday Sandals ($68) -- I love these so much I want to order them RIGHT. NOW. Website says out of stock, but I'm hoping that just means they haven't officially come in stock as they seem like a Summer '15 item to me. They are like happy fireworks on your feet -- I have a black romper that I live in all summer and these would be absolutely darling.

Dorothy Perkins Yellow Stripe Floppy Hat ($21) -- I have never been a girl who wears a fabulous floppy hat to the beach, but I aspire to be her. This one looks perfect for keeping the sun off of my face, so maybe I need to give it a shot.

Wednesday Wishlist: Very Airy

Spring -- it is here! (Though if you're a Floridian like me, you know it won't last more than a brief moment.) Still, these mild temperatures have me craving easy, breezy, lightweight pieces. Luckily retailers are all about eyelet other open-weave styles. Here are a few of my current favorites:

J. Crew Collection Eyelet Dress ($250) -- this is a great twist on a classic little black dress that is perfect for warmer weather. I like how versatile it is -- a blazer would make it work-appropriate, a great statement necklace would make this perfect for a hot date night or a fancy wedding.

Gap Eyelet Bomber Jacket ($70) -- I love the combo of feminine fabric in a masculine style, and this is a great little jacket that you'd probably grab all season. 

Old Navy Eyelet Tee ($19, on sale) -- a great variation on a basic tee. I'd feel comfortable wearing this to work with slim ankle pants and some great jewelry, and I'd love it with jeans for running around on the weekend.

Michael Kors Eyelet Shorts ($765) -- perfectly sweet and adorable. Not in my budget right now (or, ever), but I'm holding out for a super sale.

Tory Burch Lattice Perforated Wedge ($250) -- a comfortable gold wedge is a wardrobe staple for me -- they are so flattering and go with almost everything. This pair would be perfect peeking out from the flare-leg jeans I'm loving right now.

T by Alexander Wang Perforated Crew Neck Tee ($160) -- just simple and perfect. I generally lean towards more feminine styles, but I love this sleek muscle shirt shape. Excuse me while I go do one million pushups and work on my Michelle Obama arms.

Forever 21 Distressed Scoop Neck Tee ($16) -- you could pay hundreds of dollars for a basic distressed tee shirt but...why? This one is great and is exactly how much I want to pay for clothing with holes in it.

Wednesday Wishlist: Budget Busters

Sometimes it seems that everything I covet has a price tag that looks like this: $$$$$$ This week's Wednesday Wishlist will be a bit of a therapy session where I can try to work out my feelings towards these beautiful budget busters:

1. Boden Dip Dye Cashmere Sweater ($208) -- I'd wear this cozy, dreamy sweater all spring. The watercolor ombre is just gorgeous, like the prettiest Easter egg. It's also a nice alternative to the traditional solid colored cashmere sweater, which we've all seen a million times.

2. Kate Spade Constellation Sweater ($298) Just fun and whimsical and perfect. I'd wear this with jeans and sheer red lipstick on a Saturday for museum hopping or a double feature (except, if I spent $300 on a sweater I'd be wearing it while sitting in my apartment in my underwear eating PB&Js).

3. J. Crew Tippi Candy Stripe Cashmere Sweater ($89, resale) With an original price tag of $238 I guess this is a bargain, but I'm grouchy because even on eBay this sweater seems overpriced. It is adorable but not really all that versatile, so I'd like someone to just sell me one for around 40 bucks...is that too much to ask?

4. DvF Metallic V Neck Blouse ($298) -- I love a great sheer black blouse, and this one is so glam and sparkly. I always like to consider cost per wear for splurge purchases, and this one makes perfect financial sense...as long as I keep it in my closet for about 30 years or so. Seems doable.

5. Tory Burch Gretchen Turtleneck ($175, on sale) -- One of my favorite things about winter is apres-ski. I don't ski -- don't care for snow, don't care for breaking my neck -- but I'll be waiting for you at the lodge, sitting by the fire with with big mugs of cocoa and some tasty snacks. And I'll be wearing this adorable turtleneck and my rosiest cheeks (they're pretty cute -- my nickname in high school was Snow White!).

6. DvF Dolores Dress ($369, on sale) Let me tell you, I would wear the hell out of this dress. This is a shop your closet piece. I mean, imagine showing up at your high school reunion or for your hot date in this chic little Biba-fabulous number. I have no problem spending money on a timeless, well-made piece and this definitely fits the bill...just not in the budget right now.