12-24-11
sweater - Victoria's Secret / leggings - Forever 21/ heels - Next
12-25-11
sweater dress - Victoria's Secret/ tights - Cynthia Rowley/ ankle boots - Not Rated
Monday, December 26, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Cross Everyone Off Your Christmas List
I have over half of the people on my Christmas shopping list crossed off, but there are still a few I'm a bit stuck on. Living in Boston has definitely given me more options for finding gifts, but sometimes there can be too many. At times, I have little trouble finding what I'm looking for, but at others I feel like I'll never be able to weed out enough to find the perfect gift. One thing I've learned from this year's shopping is that return policies can be a determining factor. Some stores will let you return an item for a cash refund and others will only give you a store credit. Don't wait until the cashier is presenting your bags to find out the store's return policy!
One mistake people often make when gift shopping is going into a store expecting the right gift to find them. A better approach is to understand the kind of person you're shopping for and to have at least two items to be on the lookout for. An open mind is necessary as well. Sometimes the gift that you stumble upon may be a better decision than what you had planned. You always want the gift you choose to embody the personality of whoever you're buying for--it's more personal than a gift that could be given to anyone. A gift card is great when you're in a rut, but unless you're buying one for a shopaholic, it doesn't say much about the person recieving it. I've put together some types of friends you may be buying for this year and a few ideas to get you started. Plus, every gift is under $50, so it will help if you're in a money jam.
The Booze Babe
This friend loves a good party but she keeps things classy. A simple gesture to her favorite pastime with a cocktail ring or recipe book is sure to be a hit.
The Cocktail Party Set by Philosophy - $18 - Sephora // Cut Out Dress with Chain Neck - $44.54 - ASOS // Little Pink Book of Cocktails by Madeline Teachett - $9.95 - Amazon // Vintage Cocktail Ring - $9.49 - Arden B
The Health Nut
She’s all about staying fit so keep her motivation going with a present that will encourage her to stay on track, like a water bottle or yoga pants.
Bootcut Yoga Pant - $39.50 - Victoria's Secret // Bliss FatGirlSlim Treatment Kit - $38 - Sephora // CamelBak Groove Portable Filtration Bottle - $24.99 - Bed, Bath & Beyond // Jillian Michaels 6 Week Six-Pack - $8.19 - Amazon
The Bookworm
This friend likes to cozy up with a good read. She probably has a book collection the size of Barnes & Noble so get her something to complement it, like coffee or a warm scarf.
The Stylista
She probably likes to pick out her own clothes, but there are plenty of fashion-forward things you can get her. Any fierce accessories like cheetah print shoes or a metal cuff will look great with her daring wardrobe.
The Travel Star
She’s been all around the world so you can guess that there’s nothing more original that what she’s accumulated. Get her a gift that will ease her next trip like a passport wallet or travel size body care set.
100% Gift Set - $29.75 - Aveda // Cris Notti Sleep Mask - $21 - Bliss // The Travel Book - $15 - Amazon // Passport Wallet - $48 - Melissa Tan on Etsy
The Music Maven
This friend is always listening to the latest music, so it would be hard to keep up with her favorite artist. Instead of buying her an album or concert tickets, reflect her eclectic flair with neon nail polish or 45-record coasters.
Neon Nail Polish (3-pack) - $15 - American Apparel // 45 Records Coasters - $12.45 - Amazon // 2011 Ink'd Gold Earphones - $19.99 - Skullcandy // Nylon Magazine Subscription - $19.95 per yr.- Nylon
The Little Princess
You want to make the little girls in your life feel sophisticated without taking away playfulness. A trendy metallic sweater is sure to make her feel special while some cupcake flavored floss is fun and may actually encourage her to take care of her teeth!
Cupcake Floss - $6 - Urban Outfitters // Pearl & Fabric Bow Necklace - $10.50 - Charlotte Russe // Girls Cotton-Wool Cable Gloves - $24.99 - Ralph Lauren // Metallic Sweater - $19.95 - H&M
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Hairspiration - Gossip Girl
Gossip Girl has always been one of the most fashion-forward shows on tv and in it's fifth season it's still a strong style influence. What I love about this season in particular is the hairstyling by Jennifer Johnson. The styles have evolved from the school-girl look of pin-straight hair and headbands to elegant updos and intricate braiding. The characters have grown up, defined their individual styles away from school uniforms, and their hair has become more sophisticated. The styles look relaxed and effortless yet are unique and hard to duplicate. I've tried...no such luck! If I could have Johnson as my personal stylist, I would never have a bad hair day again!
(photo credits: cwtv.com)