I think I say this every year, but I cannot believe that it’s almost Christmas. It’s seriously around the corner and I’m starting to feel giddy because it is my absolute favorite holiday especially because my birthday is so close to it. Actually, I just love love love the entire last two weeks of the year which may be related to the two-week vacation I used to get at my last job, now that I think about it.
Anyhow, to start off the season, I wanted to provide you with a gift list if you have yet to start shopping for ladies whether it’s your girlfriend, fiancé, wife, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law (or maybe not), sister, coworker, best friend(s), not-quite-best friends, almost best friends, cousin, auntie, neighbor, boss, or yourself. It looks like a lot of the online shops are having a sale so it might just be the right time for it. I’m going to be focusing on accessories because they are generally less risky than clothes as they are easy to style and you don’t need to worry about the size. I’m also including items encompassing a wide range of price points to give you the most possible options. Please feel free to navigate the linked websites for more options should you feel that my suggestions are not quite satisfying. *wink*
Matthew Williamson Feather-print cashmere, silk and wool-blend scarf
was $475, Now $190
What a beautiful scarf! And it’s made with cashmere, silk, and wool: the dream team! What’s even more awesome is that it’s on sale right now for 60% off! A perfect gift for that special someone who knows style yet seeks practicality.
Mulberry Feathered Friends silk and modal-blend wrap
was $345, Now $175
Another great accessory for her, I just can’t get over how beautiful the print is, and I just thought of ten different ways to wear it: on the shoulders over that LBD (little black dress), with a winter coat, as a belt, halter top, purse accessory, or just worn on the neck the conventional way. Also on sale for 50% off.
Ugg Australia Ansley Slipper
$99.95
I have a pair that I literally wore every single day when I was traveling in Europe, from London to Switzerland to Venice. I bought them a day before I left California and they are my first pair of Uggs. I honestly was never fan of them until these fluffies came along, and I almost didn’t get them because of that preconceived notion. Little did I know, these are the most comfortable, warm shoes ever! oh my, the feeling of soft embrace the minute my foot meets the friendly fluffy goodness. They will not only keep the feet warm at home, they are perfect walking shoes on colder days. You just remember to remove socks before putting them on for best result.
Linda Farrow Luxe Square-frame acetate sunglasses
$500
I’m currently very much into these square-thick-framed shades with leopard print. I was actually on a hunt for a perfect pair when I was in Europe but couldn’t find one I liked enough… Apparently, it’s because the American shops smuggled all the stylish ones…
Yves Saint Laurent Square-frame animal-print acetate sunglasses
$275
Love how large the lenses are. Perfect for lazy days when you don’t feel like wearing makeup.
Ray-Ban Meteor Sunglasses
$145
Ray-Ban is my go-to brand for sunglasses for their timeless style and reliable quality, and of course the price. For Italian-made products, they are on a less expensive side so whenever I can find a model I like, I try to snag them if I can, that is… (it’s not so easy to shop anymore now that I’m not in the US)
Staring at Stars Marled Knit Eternity Scarf
$38 (available in black, gray, & red)
As I have posted on Facebook before, Eternity Scarf or Circle Scarf is everywhere this season (literally from Italy to Korea). I really like the color of this particular one and the price is friendly, too!
Note: If you live in a colder region, I recommend getting one made with higher percentage of wool for extra warmth.
Timex Tonal E-Z Read Watch
$60
I’m loving the simplicity of this watch. I’m not sure why, but it reminds of a glass of fresh milk and a toast on a sunny morning by the beach.
Nooka Zot Mr Watch
$275
Something about this watch, whether it’s the little tiny dots playfully sitting next to each other or the perfectly square face, is very captivating. It’s got a bit of Seoul, New York, and Paris; I’m tempted to call it a “Pop Art” Watch.
Nixon 42-20 Chrono stainless steel watch in rose gold
$450
This is the watch I wear on a daily basis (mine is yellow gold) on which I often receive compliments on. While its unavoidable bling-blingness can be somewhat intimating to some, this is one statement piece that instantly upgrades any outfit. Michael Kors watches are a good alternative if you are looking for a more toned down version, but I tend to be drawn to brands that are not as mainstream.
Nixon Monopoly stainless steel watch
$200
The less-bling-bling version.
Over-the-Door Vanity Station
$89
This is something I really need right now, as our new room in Seoul is quite tiny… When I came across this on the UO website, I was blown away at the creativity. Why didn’t I think of that? (Do we not say that all too often? haha)
$34
How cool is this necklace? Could you please ship one to me..? The chance of finding something even remotely similar to this in Seoul is extremely low. *sad face*
Yves Saint Laurent Arty gold-plated glass ring
$250
When I was in Paris, I visited a YSL boutique in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district to check the variety of their accessory collection and price. While they carried a wide variety, I found out that the Arty rings are actually cheaper to buy in the States. This gold-plated glass model looks like their latest offering, and I just can’t get over how gorgeous it is. I wear a size 5 or 6, if you are feeling generous. Please email me for my mailing address. :)
Lomography Diana + Dreamer Camera
$65
Call me naive, but I tried to study the world of Lomography a few times but I just don’t understand it (hey, at least I tried). So, I sort of gave up but I think their cameras are ultra cute, especially this particular one in mint color that I’m currently obsessed with. If you have the patience and knowledge to train me on this subject, please let me know. Actually, can you please refer me to someone who has access to a digital camera that looks like this? One that takes photos like the iPhone 4S and has all the filtering capabilities along with wifi connectability?
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Now, for the male readers who are in a serious relationship but have yet to become committed, if you REALLY want to make this Christmas or New Years memorable, do consider proposing to her. I personally was proposed on my birthday (which is very very close to Christmas by the way) which has made the Christmas season extra special for both of us for the past few years. I still remember so clearly the dinner we had at a romantic French restaurant in downtown Fullerton, his shaking voice, and the moment the waiter presented the beautiful vintage style diamond ring to me. Oh, the emotions… Tears rolled down both of our cheeks as I said, “I do.”
While a diamond ring is not what a marriage is all about, it’s an important symbol and timeless reminder of love. If you are ready to make her yours forever, may I suggest Seventy Seven Diamonds ? This place can help you choose the right jewel, especially because I understand how cumbersome the shopping process can be.
Headquartered in the UK in Central London, they have access to over 70% of the world’s finest polished diamonds, and deliver delicately crafted, high quality pieces with design inspiration from a variety of genres from modern to classic and vintage. My favorite is the vintage style engagement rings, with this particular model being my top pick due to its striking similarity to the one I’m currently wearing on my left ring finger. Isn’t it stunning?
I hope you found this post helpful. Happy shopping, and please let me know if you come across more gift ideas!
© 2011, Tomi. All rights reserved.
No Chanel bag? ;)
I love that Timex watch as well and you put it so wonderfully in words: “but it reminds of a glass of fresh milk and a toast on a sunny morning by the beach.”