Fresh Equation Holiday Gift Guide 2012

It's been a week of amazing gift ideas from Christina of DeSmitten, Bryn of Byrdie, Lauren of Undelcared Penache and Jeannie of The Covert Boutique.  Thank you to these talented ladies for sharing their beautifully curated gift guides with us.  To top off the week, I'm sharing my picks with you today. 

 

I hope you have enjoyed and been inspired by all of these amazing items... and if you're lucky, hopefully you will find some of them under your tree on Christmas morning.

 

Happy Shopping.

1. PENDLETON MERINO WOOL THROW $118 Available in super soft merino wool, this throw from Pendleton comes in classic tartans and plaids. Many of the products produced by the Oregon based family-owned Pendleton company are made in the USA, including this throw.

 

2.LEATHER TOTE $285 I believe it's the little things that make an outfit… like a great scarf, sunglasses, a hat or a fabulous bag. This simple, chic leather tote from Rib + Hull is a great investment as it will complete any outfit and will only get better with age.

3. VITAMIX 5200 $449 If you have the money, you have to invest in a Vitamix. In seconds, you can make soups, sauces, dips and (MY FAVORITE) green smoothies.

 

4.SADDLE LEATHER DRINK COASTERS $29 FOR A SET OF 6 Coasters are a necessity but this monogrammed leather set manages to also be sophisticated. Plus, personalization ups the ante on gift giving. It shows the receiver you picked the gift out just for them!

5.CRAZY SEXY DIET $11.48 If you aren’t familiar with Kris Carr or haven’t read any of her work, you must start now! After a cancer diagnosis, Kris, a self-proclaimed party girl, turned her life around. She is now a cancer survivor, author, blogger, wellness warrior and inspiration for all seeking to live a healthy life full of peace, love and veggies. Kris’s book, Crazy Sexy Diet, is a must read introduction to the basics of health + wellness and one that I recommend to all of my clients.

6. MARA HOFFMAN INTARSIA SWEATER $473 You can never have too many cozy sweaters to get you through the winter. I'm loving the bright colors in this one from Mara Hoffman.

7. GOLD SEQUIN IPHONE 5 CASE $46.50 This gold sequin phone case will brighten up even the dullest of conversations.

8.10-PIECE GLASS BOWL SET $39.95 I use these bowls ALL the time... for prep, for leftovers and for serving. They are made of tempered glass so they can be used for hot or cold foods and are dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe. For those of you that don't have a lot of storage space, or should I say especially for those of you that don't have a lot of storage space, these are great because they nest inside of each other so you only need a space big enough to fit the largest bowl. I don't know what I ever did without them!

9. MICHAEL BUBLE CHRISTMAS $11.39 I’m a sucker for Christmas music. Michael Buble’s holiday album is full of classic Christmas songs and is the perfect soundtrack for any festive holiday party!

10. NEW YORK CITY SUBWAY SIGN ART $99 As my husband and I contemplate buying a house in the suburbs, I can guarantee you that this New York City Subway Sign will be framed and hanging in our new home to remind us of the many amazing years we spent in the city. Sigh…
 

The Covert Boutique Holiday Gift Guide 2012

Jeannie (aka Brass Knuckles) is a former accessories designer who left New York to get her MBA. She's now a full time marketer and mom to two young kids. The Covert Boutique chronicles her year-long goal to abstain from clothing purchases and revisit memories in her closet.

 

We are lucky to have Jeannie share her favorite holiday finds with us today.  Loving those lacquer trays!

 

Happy Shopping. 

1) IOMOI large lacquer tray, $250 -- With small children in the house it's easy to lose things. This gorgeous monogrammed lacquer tray would bring some welcome organization to our coffee table. Beautiful and kid-proof: a #winning combo!

 

2) Alex+Ani bangles, $78 -- When it comes to arm parties, you can always count on these bangles to bring top-shelf booze and talk to everyone, including your awkward co-workers. That's what makes them the perfect guests and they go great with everything and hence, you invite them every time.

 

3) Chanel classic flap bag, $(ay dios mio!) -- Usually I'm not too fixated on material possessions but this timeless handbag turns me into a Kardashian. I mean, this bag is the only reason why I occasionally purchase lottery tickets.

 

4) Birth names are so 2008. This year I'm gifting Twitter-handle name necklaces, $33.95+.

 

5) Rookie Yearbook One, edited by Tavi Gevinson, $16.45 -- Even though I am an entire generation beyond her demographic, I love Tavi and her Rookie empire. She reminds me of what it was like to be a teenager when you'd find wacky stuff at thrift stores and cry while listening to music and furtively stare at boys in the hallway and life was still this explosive, burgeoning thing. (Sigh).

 

6) Caroline Amato Fingerless Motorcycle Gloves, $58 -- Perfectly badass, paired with a brightly colored winter coat.

 

7) Logitech Wireless Speaker Adapter for Bluetooth, $39.99 -- This little gadget allows you to stream music on your iPhone wirelessly to any set of speakers, eliminating the need to watch your dock like a hawk to make sure it doesn't fall prey to grubby little hands.

 

8) Arlo acrylic tumblers, $3.50-$3.95 -- In our home, glass is a liability. That's why we drink highballs out of plastic sippy cups (have you tried this? It's... not the same). These acrylic tumblers are the perfect solution.

 

9) Buxom Big and Healthy Lip Tarnish, $19 -- I love lipstick but hate when it gets everywhere. This tingly lip pencil adds a touch of long-lasting color and looks great finished with a coat of Blistex.

10) The ugliest room in our house is the bedroom. Instead of a cozy love nest it looks like the dentist's office at a federal state prison. Threadless has lots of great wall art, $14.50+, including this chuckle-worthy piece that would bring a well-needed pop of personality to our otherwise cadaver-like room.
 

Undeclared Panache Gift Guide

Today, Lauren, of Undeclared Panache, shares her favorite gifts for 2012.  Lauren is a New-York-City-Newlywed. She has worked in the fashion industry for seven years, is a handbag designer by day and started Undeclared Panache in 2008 to channel her inspirations for other facets of a fabulously styled life. That studded Valentino tote is definitely going on my wish list!

Happy Shopping.

1. Gold Clip Lamp ($49) - Never can have too many adorable little project lamps and I love that this one adds a little extra pop of gold.
2. Leopard Driving Gloves ($138) - Ever since I got a Vespa, I have become more of a glove enthusiast. These leopard gloves are so chic.
3. Valentino Rockstud Tote ($2195) - It's tough to justify a big handbag purchase, but the Valentino Rockstud tote bag is a classic I could eventually pass down to my daughter.
4. Lg Square Glass Shadow Box ($34) - I love these personalized glass display boxes. Could store jewelry or treasures on your nightstand or desk.
5. Living Etc. ($80.50) - The British magazine, Living Etc.magazine has been a favorite of mine for a while. I am always so inspired by the bright colors and quirky European style. I hope Santa can deliver it to me once a month.
6. Statue of Liberty Sweater ($39) - Always attracted to a kitschy itarsia sweater, I can't resist one with the Statue of Liberty from Uniqlo.
7. Leather iPad Envelope ($79) - I'm late to the i-pad party, but I'd love to come in, even if it's just for the amazing accessories, like this monogramed leather folio.
8. Cheers Letterpress Coasters ($26) - Crazy about these "cheers" letterpress coasters. They would look so cute with my new china.
9. Brush Set ($60) - At least one gift is out of practicality. I am desperate for a new set of make-up brushes.
10. Black Watch ($35) - A sleek, minimal watch would look great next to a stack of bangles.

Byrdie Gift Guide 2012

Today's gift guide is from my sister, Bryn, who pens the style blog, Byrdie.  She lives in Brooklyn, NY and recently launched a personal styling business... for more info, check out http://www.brynsanders.com/.   I'm hoping Santa brings me that diamond tennis bracelet!

 

Happy Shopping.

 

1. Yellow Korner has awesome art ... I love their photograph prints. The Lion in the Wind ($119 - 11.4" x 11.4") is one of my favorites. It's stunning. How cool would it be to see this face every day in your home?

 

2. I collaborated with my friend, Allison, owner of Ladybird boutique in Columbus, Ohio and LA based brand Boulevard to design a canvas and leather tote ($122). You can customize it by getting up to three initials gold stamped on the leather strip ... perfect for gifting (to yourself or someone else)! Available 11/29 ... contact Allison to purchase - 614.298.8133 or ladybirdfashions@yahoo.com

 

3. A diamond tennis bracelet ($1,328) is a classic ... it goes with everything, stacks with other arm jazz easily and something that will be kept forever.

 

4. I love masculine watches and this Casio watch ($21.99) is so simple and chic being all black. It's totally versatile and would look cool with a few bracelets piled on with it. Plus, it's a total bargain!

 

5. I love fashion and I love Kate Moss's style ... what better coffee book than "Kate Moss" by Mario Testino ($69.99).

 

6.These lovers and friends sequin pants ($151.20 on sale) are perfect for the holidays and all through Winter. Pair with a white t-shirt, a black blazer and heels for night and a grey sweatshirt and booties for day.

 

7. I love the idea of a pop phone ($32) ... easier to hold to your ear while catting and it's better for you than holding your cell phone to your face. And silver metallic is so fun.

 

8. After going one of my best friend's wedding in Charleston, SC this past Spring, I'm loving silver mint julip cups ($36) ... they're perfect for a fun cocktail or as a vase with pretty flowers. Get it monogrammed to add a special touch.

 

9. Get the holiday party started by stuffing a stocking with this mini skull vodka bottle. It's a cool addition to any bar cart.

 

10. These Eddie Borgo Pave Spike Earrings are so edgy yet chic and totally wearable every day.

 

Desmitten Holiday Gift Guide 2012

I have a special treat for you this week!  I have partnered with 4 chic and talented bloggers to bring you some beautifully curated gift guides to help make your holiday shopping easier this year. 

 

Today's guest blogger is Christina DeSmet.  She is a fashion designer and the mastermind behind the design blog, DeSmitten, where she carefully curates her everday musings.  Recently, she also added vintage e-shop owner to her resume... check out Same State Clothing to purchase some of her amazing finds.

Christina shares her favorite picks for the season below.  I'm coveting that black + rose gold watch!

 

Happy Shopping.

 

Juxtaposed materials of gunmetal and natural bone tile make up this Origami Coffee Table from West Elm ($399). Sitting pretty in front of our sofa, this table would be a nice upgrade from the trunk we try and pass off as a coffee table, but really just use for storage.

 

In need of some new arm candy, this Rose Gold Watch with black leather band ($35) would be a perfect update to my old rose gold watch I wore for years, and at a fraction of the cost!

 

Since my boyfriend and I just celebrated 1 year as vegetarians, we are looking to spice things up in the kitchen. This In Depth Herb and Spice Workshop ($210/person) at the Natural Gourmet Institute in Brooklyn would be an amazing learning tool to introduce new spices and herbs into our simple vegetarian diet.

 

Keeping warm and in style isn't always the easiest thing to do in New York City, but these Hansel from Basel Stockings ($38) with contrast seaming will make a statement while keeping me cozy.

 

As a fashion designer, I am inspired by photography and art as much as actual fashion. These books incorporate a little bit of each. New Saint Laurent designer, Hedi Slimane is also a famed photographer. His book of photography, Anthology of a Decade ($38.50) incorporates still life imagery and portraiture with signature undertones of androgyny and glamour.

Maison Martin Margiela's book ($63) is a work of art in itself, designed with the same attention to detail as his clothing containing twelve separate booklets filled with inspiration.

 

This iPhone dock ($40) is simply designed for function without skimping on style. To tell time or listen to music while charging my iPhone, what more could I ask for?

 

With all the natural light in our new apartment, keeping plants alive is easier than I realized. A gift certificate to our favorite plant shop, Sprout ($25+) would be an ideal gift to give or receive.

 

Last week, with a table full of friends and family, after dinner tea turned mortifying when I had to serve milk in a mason jar and sugar from the bag! This sleek and chic Vera Wang Creamer and Sugar Bowl Set ($50) will ensure that won't happen again.

 

Stylish and comfortable, these 80% 20 Rina Boots (Cocoa $198) would round out my winter boot collection filling the void for laid back chic, non-black bootie.

 

Since I was old enough to care about these things, my stocking was filled with beauty products and specialty toiletries. I cannot think of a better high/low stocking stuffer combo than this ultra rich Rodin Body Cream ($80) and a bar of Organic Charcoal Soap ($6) that naturally extracts the toxins out of your skin while keeping it moisturized with essential oils.
 

Holiday Gift Guide- If You Waited Until the Very Last Minute

Gift Cards  These are the best gifts to get if you've waited until the very last minute to do your shopping or if an unexpected relative or guest shows up at your door on Christmas Eve.  Like magazine subscriptions, you can usually print out a gift certificate or send an e-card to the recipient.  Here are a few places that I would certainly be happy getting a gift card to...

1. Barnes and Noble
This may be my favorite store.  With books, magazines, e-readers, cookbooks, board games, music and more, it's pretty much a gaurantee that anyone on your list can find something at Barnes and Noble.

2. Origins
All Origins products are formulated with natural and certified organic ingredients so you can't make a bad choice here.  Origins carries skincare products for men and women as well as makeup and bath & body products.

3. Target
 Do I really need to say anything about this one?  Target has apparel, toys, health & beauty products, electronics, bedding and more.  Truly something for everyone here.

4. Three Potato Four
Three Potato Four offers a smartly curated and insanely cool collection of goodies (both new and old) for your home.  You can visit their website to purchase a gift certificate for your loved ones but I bet you'll end up buying something for yourself as well. 
PS- If you live in Philly, you can visit their new (and only) brick and mortar store at 376 Shurs Lane, Bldg A.

5. Emersonmade
Emersonmade is for the discerning fashionista on your list.  The husband and wife team behind the label split time between their farm (and corporate headquarters) in Portsmouth, NH and New York City where all of their clothing is made (Love that!).  In addition to apparel, they recently introduced belts, jewelry, bedding and table linens and all of it can be purchased using an Emersonmade gift certificate!

6. Amercian Express or Visa
An American Express or Visa gift card is always appreciated because it can be used anywhere. You can buy these online but you can also pick them up at your local grocery or drug store. It's great to have a few of these on hand because they make an appropriate last minute gift for just about anyone. Also, if someone on your list is asking for something that is over your budget (say a Breville Juicer or a Vitamix), you can always give them a gift card in an amount you are comfortable with and let them know that it is to be used towards that big ticket item.

Happy Shopping!

May your Holiday, and every day, be filled with Friends, Family, Love, Laughter, Health and Happiness.
xx

Holiday Gift Guide- For the Health Nut

Magazines  A magazine subscription, unlike the Jelly of the Month Club, really is the gift that keeps on giving the whole year.  And for those of you that waited until the last minute to do your Christmas shopping, you can usually create and pay for your gift subscription online and print out a gift announcement or email a card to the recipient. Here are 3 of my favorite health magazines.

Natural Health

Natural Health $19.97 for a 1 year subscription (8 issues)

Experience L!fe

Experience L!fe $17.95 for a 1 year subscription (10 issues)

Whole Living

Whole Living $10 for a 1 year subscription (10 issues)

Holiday Gift Guide- Hydrating Facial Spray

Hydrating Facial Spray This is a great gift for any female on your list.  I keep a hydrating facial spray in my bag at all times.  They are ideal for using when I get stressed at work, when I'm having trouble sleeping and especially when I'm traveling.  A light mist of either of these floral sprays is refreshing and relaxing.

   

Spend More  A blend of rose, orange blossom and lavender flower nectars makes this spray both hydrating and moisturizing.  Tata Harper uses all natural ingredients and what makes it even better is that she produces all of her products in the USA (Vermont to be exact).




Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence $65

Spend Less This Rose Water Spray from Camille Cosmeceuticals has only 2 ingredients: distilled water and rose essential oils from organic Egyptian roses. Although the scent is not as complex as the Tata Harper version, it smells great and is equally refreshing.

Camille Cosmeceuticals Rose Water $30



Holiday Gift Guide- For the eco-friendly Host & Hostess

Serving Trays  In my opinion, no one can have too many serving trays.  Both of these options are eco-friendly and equally stylish. 

Spend More  These petrified wood trays come in 3 sizes and are millions (yes, millions!) of years old.  Since these are made of natural wood, each tray varies slightly in shape and size making each one unique.  These trays are polished for a smooth serving surface and should be hand washed.  


Petrified Wood Trays $65-$148

 Spend Less  How great are these colorful wooden trays from Wisteria.com?  Made from reclaimed wood, each is restored, painted and ready to use at your next holiday party or gathering.  Choose from 6 different colors.



Colorful Wooden Trays $49



Holiday Gift Guide- Spice Up Someone's Life

Herbs and Spices  For the seasoned cook (heehee) or for someone who is just starting out, herbs and spices make the perfect gift. 

Spend More  Select 12 herbs, spices, sea salts or rubs from over 100 different options to make the perfect customized gift.  Your selections will be shipped in a metal tin with a custom label from Craig's Market. 
*As Dec 25th quickly approaches, please make sure to work directly with Craig's Market to ensure delivery in time for the Holidays!


Custom Herbs and Spice Kit $29.95

Spend Less  Grow your own!  Choose from organic Oregano, organic Parsley or organic Basil.  This herb kit comes with an eco-friendly handmade bamboo pot, organic seeds, soil and instructions for how to cultivate your herbs at home.

Bamboo Herb Garden $20

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Holiday Gift Guide- for the Cook

Aprons With all the food and cooking that comes along with the holidays, who couldn't use a new apron?

Spend More With this apron from Garnet Hill there's no excuse not to look stylish while you're baking christmas cookies or cooking a big christmas dinner.  Not only is this apron cute but it's also pure cotton, machine washable and made in the USA.  It comes in 2 prints, both of which reverse to a black apron with white polka dots.  To top it all off,  your apron comes with a red wood-bead necklace that flips to either side or can be taken off completely. 

Garnet Hill Reversible Apron $68

Spend Less  The sports fanatics on your list will be more than happy to help in the kitchen once they see this apron.  Made of durable cotton twill, this apron also has a double front pocket, is machine washable and comes with the logo of your favorite NFL or MLB team.  You can also further peronalize your apron
with a name or monogram for an extra $7.  Available in both adult and kids sizes.  You'll definitely score points with this one!  (sorry, I couldn't resist)

Williams-Sonoma NFL or MLB apron $24.95-$29.95





Holiday Gift Guide- For Her

Self Tanner  In the dead of winter, we can all use a hint of sun.  These paraben and phthalate free self-tanners can help you (and those on your shopping list of course) get just that.

Spend More  Josie Maran produces her self-tanning cream using argan oil grown organically in Morocco and packages her products in recyclable and biodegradable boxes.  Argan Oil naturally helps to prevent skin dehydration and inflammation so not only does this give you subtle healthy looking color but it also acts as a natural moisturizer.



Josie Maran Argan Self Tanning Cream $32


Spend Less  All of Origins' products are formulated with natural and certified organic ingredients.  This tinted self-tanner allows for easy application and the refreshing peppermint scent is an added bonus.

Origins Faux Glow $19.50





Holiday Gift Guide- For Everyone

Throws  Help those on your shopping list keep warm this winter.  These throws would be a perfect Secret Santa gift or a nice thank you for the neighbor who is house-sitting for you while you're away skiing over the Holidays. 

Spend More  Available in super soft merino wool, this 54"x 64" throw from Pendleton comes in classic tartans and plaids as well as solid white.  Many of the products produced by the Oregon based family-owned Pendleton company are made in the USA, including this throw.

Pendleton Merino Throw $108



Spend Less  Lands' End normally offers this 50"x 73" wool/cashmere blend throw for $99.50 but you can get it on sale now for $69.99. 

Lands' End Plaid Throw $69.99

Holiday Gift Guide- For Her

Gloves Tired of having to take your gloves off in the cold winter weather to answer your phone?  I bet the friends and family on your shopping list are too.  The gloves below have built in technology that allows you to use your iPod, iPhone or iPad while still keeping your hands warm.

Spend More  These leather gloves are handcrafted in Europe with cashmere lining.  The nice thing about this pair is that they look just like regular leather gloves since they don't have any visible pads on the fingers or thumbs.

iTouch Leather Gloves with Extended Cashmere Lining $125

Spend Less  At only $32, these wool/nylon gloves are a bargain.  They come in 10 colors and with a bow that adds a distinctly feminine touch. 

Side Bow Echo Touch Glove $32

Holiday Gift Guide- For Him

Cell Phone Cases  Here are 2 iphone case options that will satisfy any guy you are shopping for.

Spend More  Part of Restoration Hardware's Artisan Leather Collection, this phone cover is crafted in genuine vegetable tanned leather that will only get better with age.  The heavy top stitching and rich leather color gives it a distinctly masculine feel.  This cover fits the iPhone 4 and 4S and is available in Chestnut (shown below) and Chocolate.


Restoration Hardware Artisan Leather iPhone 4 and 4S Cover $39

 Spend Less  J.Crew's rubber camo case is a great fit for the iPhone 4 and for your budget.  It's on sale now for only $20.

J.Crew Rubber Camo iPhone case $20

Spend Less Jcrew offers patterns, solid colors and even a glitter iPhone case for just $25. The only downside is that the Jcrew cases only fits the iPhone 4.

Holiday Gift Guide- For Her

iPhone Cases  You can hardly walk down the street these days without bumping into someone who is texting, "checking in", reading email or just simply talking on the phone.  That's why this gift is something that almost anyone on your list can use. 

Spend More iomoi offers 44 different artwork options for the iPhone 3, 3GS, 4 and 4S.  For $58 you can select your favorite pattern and then customize it with a name or monogram.  


iomoi custom phone case $58

Spend Less  Jcrew offers patterns, solid colors and even a glitter iPhone case for just $25.  The only downside is that the cases only fit the iPhone 4. 

J.CREW iPhone 4 Case $25