Style Lush

Official Style Lush Gift Guide Giveaway WINNER!

By Jennie

Thanks for the 174 (!!) comments on our gift guide giveaway. Our winner is:

Congrats Christen! I'll be in touch.

The Official 2012 Style Lush Holiday Gift Guide: 100 Gifts for $35 or Less

by Elizabeth

It's that time of year, Lush readers. The time we offer you dozens (upon dozens) of reasonably priced presents for every recipient on your gift list. (Here are the previous years: 2009, 2010, and 2011.) This year, we bumped our limit up by $10 because inflation is no gift guide creator's friend. But, don't fret! Only a handful of items are over $30. There is still PLENTY to fill your (online) shopping carts without killing your wallets. Let's get to it!

1. Tiny Toms, $28.95. My lord, these are cute. 

(Photo from nordstrom.com)

2. Shuffle Calendar, $24.95. I need this atop my desk.

(Photo from cb2.com)

3. Remote Control Helicopter, $25. I have never known a dude, whether 5 or 25 or 55, who was not dying to get his hands on this thing. It's a sure bet. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

4. Laguiole Cheese Knife Set, $32. I gave these cheese knives to someone a few years ago and they still tell me how great they are and how often they use them. 

(Photo from anthropologie.com)

5. 3D Geo Shapes, $32.95. These look a little boring on first glance, but we checked them out from the library and my two year old could not stop playing with them. Plus, I felt like I could see her brain growing right before my eyes, and I hardly ever think that while she's watching a My Little Pony marathon on TV. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

6. Melissa & Doug Horse Carrier, $15.40. Fun for a horse fiend. Or a trailer fiend. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

7. I  love Christmas pjs that kids can wear all year. My five year old is getting these Old Navy Penguin PJ's ($14.94; and there's always an ON coupon code to be found) from St. Nicholas on December 6th. 

(Photo from oldnavy.com)

8. I can totally see this fabulous Lacoste beach towel ($24.99) tied up with some sunscreen, some cheap sunglasses, or some flip-flops, especially for someone who's taking a wintry tropical vacation. 

(Photo from zappos.com)

9. This Cozy Classic Stripe Scarf from the Gap ($20.96) is amazing in person. I've already given it to three people, including myself. 

(Photo from gap.com)

10. Crate and Barrel Raj Hurricane, $17.95. Love it. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

11. I LOVE this Crate and Barrel Palma Low Basket and for the price ($14.95) you could fill it with a throw and a good book, some citrus fruit, really anything that strikes your fancy. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

12. Band In A Box, $19.66. Maybe give to other people's children, and then laugh.

(Photo from amazon.com)

13. Or add earplugs for the parents, and the Hohner Kids Glockenspiel, $16.92.

(Photo from amazon.com)

14. The Vermont Country Store soap ($13.50) smells amazing and lasts forever. Make sure you get the honeysuckle, it's my favorite. 

(Photo from vermontcountrystore.com)

15. Every year I cross my fingers that Santa brings me these mint melts, $17.56. Yum. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

16. My kids would love this Go Fish Game, ($24.95) and, bonus, no batteries to replace!

(Photo from landofnod.com)

17. I think these Silver Pinecone Taper Holders ($12.95) are so pretty. Add some red candles ($9.95) for a gorgeous gift. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

18. The Body Shop Shower Gel ($8)  is the best shower gel ever. I'd choose a trio of Mango, Pink Grapefruit, and Lemon and tie them up in a gift bag with a red bow. 

(Photo from thebodyshop-usa.com)

19. I can't wait until my kids are old enough to make me terrible pot holders with that crazy Pot Holder Loom ($13.19) thing. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

20. These Matryoshka Madness Stacking Dolls ($14.99) are showing up under our tree this year. They're just so darn cute. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

 21. You can't go wrong with this adorable Wee Wonderful Stuffed Elephant, $24.95.

(Photo from amazon.com)

22. These Men's Bearpaw Slippers ($34.93 + free shipping through 11/26) are making me wish I had bigger feet. Don't they look cozy!?

(Photo from rei.com)

23. I can't imagine what's not fun about a Make Your Own Root Beer At Home Kit, $21.08. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

 24. I would love one of these Sur La Table Italian Scalloped Bakers, $19.99. Beautiful and useful? Yes, please!

(Photo from surlatable.com)

25. My husband is always happy to get a Fitted Baseball Hat ($21), no matter how badly his team is playing. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

26. Everyone loves Smartwool Socks, and for $30 you could get two pairs of these! The gift of warm feet is always appreciated. 

(Photo from rei.com)

27. The REI Planet Bike Spok Light Set, $18.69. A perfect gift for the biking enthusiast in your life. 

(Photo from rei.com)

28. Admittedly, the Gap Modal Ruffle Cami, $13.96, (and don't forget the matching boy shorts, $8.70) isn't to give to everyone, but I had to put it on the list. Mostly because I want it. 

(Photo from gap.com)

29. For the young bird nerd in your life, My First Bird Book and Feeder, $21.95. 

(Photo from workman.com)

30. So gorgeous! The Cost Plus Lisbon Serving Platter, $24.99. You could even deliver it to a friend or your favorite hostess with a bow around it and something delicious (in plastic wrap) on top.

(Photo from worldmarket.com)

31. I recommend these fabulous West Elm Laquer Trays ($24) every year, and then I found out that they can be monogrammed and now I'm recommending them even more strongly. Monogram that red one and fill it with cookies! Fantastic. 

(Photo from westelm.com)

32. People RAVE about these Anthropologie Capri Jar Candles ($25), and they're SO expensive. This makes them the perfect gift, at least for anyone you know who likes a delicious smelling candle. 

(Photo from anthropologie.com)

33. Gap Moss Stitch Hat, $17.96. The perfect shade of red. 

(Photo from gap.com)

34. I saw this Crate and Barrel Red Popcorn Tub ($16.95) in the store and it's fantastic. I'd give it with some of this Midnight Popcorn ($6.95) and some Popcorn Seasoning ($9.95). 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

35. The West Elm Stripe Favorite Throw is only $23, and so pretty! 

(Photo from westelm.com)

36. These Spool 72 Mineral Springs Earrings ($18) need to find their way into my stocking. 

(Photo from spool72.com)

37. I also think they'd be pretty tucked into this gorgeous Mercury Glass Box, $24.50. 

(Photo from potterybarn.com)

38. His and Hers PJ Pants? Flannel with polka dots for her ($20.97)...

39. ...and traditional Plaid Flannel PJ Pants ($14.97) for him. 

(Photos from gap.com)

40. Two sets of these Kavita Floral Napkins ($12.76) would make a great gift, especially combined with some..

(Photo from worldmarket.com)

41. Crate & Barrel Navato Gold Napkin Rings, $2.95/each.

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

42. This Cost Plus Broken Bangle Jewelry Box ($14.99) is so pretty and different. To make it even more special you could add...

(Photo from worldmarket.com)

43. This Beau & Stella Tiny Interlocking Links Necklace ($30) or...

(Photo from beauandstella.com)

44. This Stacks of Turquoise Ring, $18.

(Photo from spool72.com)

45. I wish I knew a baby just so I could give them this Knit Viking Hat, $30. 

(Photo from etsy.com/shop/BabyBlissGinny)

46. I can totally see this L'Occitane Hand Indulges Hand Cream Set ($28) tucked into...

(Photo from shop.nordstrom.com)

47. This West Elm Velvet Zipper Case, $12. Add a monogram to make it extra special. 

(Photo from westelm.com)

48. I've looked at a lot of ornaments this year. This Pottery Barn Silver Lantern Ornament ($12.50) is my favorite. 

(Photo from potterybarn.com)

49. I am putting Pink's new CD, The Truth About Love ($5), on this list because 1. it's so cheap, it's practically a stocking stuffer and 2. I want it. (Warning, though, it does have some naughty words.)

(Photo from amazon.com)

50. Speaking of naughty, I am recommending Don Winslow's book Savages ($10.20), as well as the prequel The Kings of Cool ($13.44) because they're some of the most fun books I've read in a long time, but they're...not for everyone. If you know someone who loves Pulp Fiction and doesn't mind a lot of bad words, though, I bet they like these books. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

51. I can totally see the Marin White Pitcher Vase ($22.95) filled with red holly berries in the winter and lemonade in the summer. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

52. When it comes to baby clothes, I think neutral patterned knits always look more expensive. This Garter-Stiched Stripe Sweater from the Gap fits the bill, $23.96. 

(Photo from gap.com)

53. Know a budding artist? These Prismacolor Colored Pencils (plus a pad of drawing paper) would make a lovely gift, $26.04. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

54. These amazing Williams Sonoma Cocktail Mixers ($16.95) are on my wish list. I'd add the rimming sugar and a few schmancy cocktail glasses for an over-the-top fantastic present. 

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

55. Or maybe you're shopping for a baker, not a drinker. I'm crazy about these beautiful Williams Sonoma Copper Cookie Cutters, $7.95. Pick out a few of your favorites and tie them up with a wooden spoon and some sprinkles. 

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

 56. I love this Painted Wood Chess Set, $24.98. I forsee a lot of time for Chess games between Christmas and the return to school. 

(Photo from worldmarket.com)

57. There's aaaaaaaall the other peppermint bark, and then there's the Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Bark, starting at $26.95.

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

58. Give these Sukie Super Cool Iron-Ons ($10.17) with a few blank shirts so your giftee can get started crafting up right away. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

59. Not only is the 2013 Paper Source Wall Art Calendar gorgeous ($29.95), but every page can be made into something else after that month is over. Isn't that cool?

(Photo from paper-source.com)

60. I've never given anyone the Whirly Pop Popcorn Maker ($24.95) and not heard rave reviews afterwards. 

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

61. The Baggu for J. Crew reusable bag is cute and environmentally friendly. And at only $10 each, for $30 you could give a set of three.

 

(Photo from jcrew.com)

62. I own the Golden Lace Collar ($18) from Francesca's (it's metal even though it looks just like lace) and I have received literally scads of compliments on it. Recommend. 

(Photo from francescas.com)

63. Especially if you can afford to tuck it into this fabulous Pottery Barn Paisley Jewelry Roll, $19.

(Photo from potterybarn.com)

64. Kate Spade Polka Dot Thermos, $35. Someone please buy me this. Ha-ha, just kidding. Except not really. 

(Photo from katespade.com)

65. If you're still in Kate Spade mood after my blatant display of greed, but you just can't swing that thermos, you can't go wrong with these Monogram Notecards, $26.

 

(Photo from katespade.com)

66. These J. Crew Marled Rugby socks ($16.50) seem like just the thing to wear while sitting around drinking from your Polka Dot Thermos and writing notes on your Monogram Notecards. 

(Photo from jcrew.com)

67. Holiday Crafting and Baking with Kids ($11.50) looks fun. Maybe flip through the book before you give it and include supplies to make one of the projects. 

(Photo from powells.com)

68. No foxes were harmed in the making of these Recycled Cotton Fox Mittens, $22.

(Photo from uncommongoods.com)

69. If I knew any guitar players I'd buy them this Guitar Pick Maker ($25) in one hot minute. 

(Photo from uncommongoods.com)

70. This Tasha Polished Paisley scarf ($28) is so pretty, and wrapped up in a Nordstrom box I think it will look way more expensive than it is. 

(Photo from shop.nordstrom.com)

71. Metal Wall Letter. Give this to an expecting mom, if she has her baby's name chosen, or to new homeowners.

(Photo from landofnod.com)

72. Mac Guilty Passions Metallic Pigments, $32.50. Worth it for the super cute packaging alone. 

(Photo from maccosmetics.com)

73. Or if Guilty Passions aren't your thing, I love this Stila Lip Glaze Gift Set, $25.

(Photo from shop.nordstrom.com)

74. The Land of Nod I'm Not Bored Any More Art Jar ($29) is one of my favorite things to give kids. 

(Photo from landofnod.com)

75. The Sportcraft Anywhere Table Tennis Set ($21.99) seems super fun, doesn't it?

(Photo from amazon.com)

76. There something about a Tin Tea Set ($19.99) that I find very appealing. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

77. Who doesn't love cheese? Aside from the lactose intolerant, that is. I really find this Williams-Sonoma DIY Cheese-Making Kit very desirable. (Can you tell I am running out of ways to say "Buy this. Wrap it up. Throw it under the tree"? Well, I just described a cheese making kit as "very desirable," so, yes, I am.)

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

78. Tie up that very desirable cheese-making kit with this Red and White Stripe Apron, $24.95.

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

79. Or if your gift recipient is more into smelling like delicious baked goods than actually baking them, this Philosophy Lemon Angel Food Cake Duo ($22) is the perfect gift idea. 

(Photo from shop.nordstrom.com)

80. Tie one of those honey dipper things up with this Williams-Sonoma Honey Sampler ($21.95) and add a loaf of freshly baked bread if you have time. Delicious. 

(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)

81. For your favorite naturalist, the super cool Seed Bombs and Slingshot Kit, $19.95.

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

82. Penguins and Pajama Pants ($29.50) a perfect combination. 

(Photo from garnethill.com)

83. I have a very hard-to-shop-for person on my Christmas list, and I always send them smoked salmon and fancy crackers ($14.99) when I can't think of anything else. 

(Photo from worldmarket.com)

84. This "But First, Coffee" T-Shirt ($28.99) would be so fun to tie up around a pound of your favorite beans. 

(Photo from skreened.com)

85. It's probably easier to pick up in the store than to order online, but a bottle of something nice always makes a good gift. 

86. Whenever I see these Fleur de Lys Juice glasses ($6/each) in person I always fawn all over them. These would be so fun to package up with a hand juicer and some nice oranges. 

(Photo from anthropologie.com)

87. This is such a pretty mixing bowl, $19.95. It'd be nice tied up with some brightly colored rubber spatulas or some wooden spoons and a fancy boxed mix. 

(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)

88. It doesn't get much cuter than itty bitty cowboy boot socks, $22.42.

(Photo from amazon.com)

89. These Measure Up Cups by Discover Toys ($16.99) are a favorite in our house. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

90.  I feel like my kids are finally at the age where they'd really get a bang out of Twister, $22.91.

(Photo from amazon.com)

91. Another toddler age toy that's really popular at our house are these Educational Insights Touchable Textures Squares. 

92. In case you need to entertain yourself while your children lob fabric squares at each other, I am really enoying the new Barbara Kingsolver novel, Flight Behavior ($16.20). I think it'd be fun to include a new Starbucks gift card and a promise of babysitting for someone who you think might really benefit from a few hours of alone time. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

93. If I could only buy one baby blanket, this blanket by Elegant Baby ($22.75) is the one I would buy. It's a favorite at our house. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

94. I feel like a Darth Vader Lego Watch ($19.99) is a pretty sure bet for a boy of a certain age. Like, say, 5-85. 

(Photo from amazon.com)

95. I really super love this iPhone case ($24.99). I should probably get an iPhone before I buy it though. 

96. This Monogrammed To-Go Cup ($12) and a few Starbucks gift cards sealed inside? Love it. 

97. These States Birds and Blooms prints ($15) are fantastic. Add a nice mat and frame before you gift it. 

98. I think this Handmade Rainbow Color Dried Flower Wreath ($27.50) is the prettiest, especially during such a dark time of year. 

99. The IKEA trains ($9.99) work with all the other wooden train sets out there and are so well priced it's crazy. 

(Photo from ikea.com)

100.  And finally, you can give this IKEA Easel ($14.99) and still have plenty of cash left over for a roll of paper and chalk. 

 

(Photo from ikea.com)

***

There you have it! We hope you love this list as much as we do. (Great, great job Elizabeth!)

We plan to host a similar giveaway as last year, a giveaway that gives one of you the chance to win your favorite item from this list, so check back on 12/3 for your chance to enter.

Also, if you'd like to share this list with your own readers or friends (awesome; thanks!), we have a badge you can add to your site:

(Code for the badge: <a href="http://www.stylelushblog.com/2012/11/the-official-2012-style-lush-holiday-gift-guide-100-gifts-for-35-or-less.html"><img src="http://www.shelikespurple.com/StyleLushHG2012.gif"></a>)

***

(Finally, enjoy the second (!) annual Food Lush Gift Guide, with plenty more food and food-related gift ideas, is also up today!)

An answer for Anthro: Cost Plus World Market

By Manda

I'm not a huge in-store shopper anymore (unless you include tossing workout clothes into my grocery-laden cart at Target while chasing down my four-year-old in the underwear section and simultaneously trying to wrangle my 2-year-old into the Ergo backpack because he tries to jump out of the cart). Usually when I head out to a non-grocery store with my two children I have a specific item in mind, have a strategy in place ahead of time ("You! In the stroller! You! Get a treat at Starbucks if you stay right next to me and don't wander off!" I should work for the Army, y'all), and plan to get in and out quickly.

This week was no different! I planned to take my once-annual trip to Anthropologie in search of one of those ceramic egg crates we all love from last year's Style Lush Gift Guide. I actually planned to use mine for eggs, as I buy them in bulk at Costco because we burn through at least 2 dozen a week at my house between all the breakfast and baking that goes on around here. So. I planned my bribes. I packed the kids into the car. I got my son into the stroller and lectured my daughter about breaking stuff. And guess what? NO LONGER AVAILABLE! DUDE!

My eggs would have been so happy. Sniff.

Well, onward ho! We had to get on with life, and my next stop (after Starbucks and a lengthy visit to Petsmart where we go around and say hi to all the "wildlife" in the entire store. Twice.) was Cost Plus World Market, arguably one of my favorite places to shop for gifts and housewares in the entire world. My favorite coffee mug recently met an untimely end, ahem, and my coffee just doesn't taste the same without it. I had to check if they still had it ... and YES! And the price? Just $4.99. I almost bought ONE mug at Anthro that I didn't like as much for $8.99, you guys. I also bought a second mug at World Market for just $3.99.

Know what else they had? A very similar egg crate, for only $5.99. WOAH! Unfortunately the last one they had was chipped, but the sales gal first offered it to me at a damage discount ($2.99) and when I rejected that she said I could get a rain check and they'd CALL ME when another one came in!

Now, they don't have the cute clothes selection, but when it comes to housewares and other little chotchkies, World Market is my place! And now that I think about it? We bought a couch there, an ottoman, tons of storage baskets, and of course I always buy my favorite stacking mug set there when I need an impressive gift for a budget-friendly price.

Plus? THEY HAVE BACON CHOCOLATE. Believe me, you want to go to there!

Are you a Cost Plus World Market believer? Have you found anything awesome there recently?

 

(photos via Anthropologie.com and Worldmarket.com)

Gift Books for Your Stylish Mother

By Janet

Mother's Day is a month away, which means there is still plenty of time to find and order the perfect gift online rather than rushing to the mall at the last minute. Here are some stylish book ideas for your stylish mothers. Avoid procrastinating and order early (your mother will be so proud!).

For the mother who loves memoirs:

Some Of My Lives: A Scrapbook Memoir One-time Paris-based editor of Vogue, co-founder of art journal L'OEIL and friend to most (if not all) of the twentieth century's greatest artists and composers - including Picasso, Matisse, Max Ernst and Karl Lagerfield - Rosamond Bernier tells all in this eclectic, pithy and vivid memoir that pieces together selections from her diary entries and writings on art.

For the mother who surrounded you with hundreds of books:

Books Make a Home: Elegant Ideas for Storing and Displaying Books Author and bibliophile Damian Thompson tours the rooms of the home, discovering a host of techniques for stacking, shelving and closeting volumes, and illustrating how each space can be brought to life by books.

For the stylish mother who asked (and perhaps still asks), "what on earth are you wearing?":

What On Earth Are You Wearing: An Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Fashion From A-Cups to Ze Bra, this light-hearted "Michipedia" is sure to garner a chuckle with its whimsical watercolored sketches courtesy of Kat Macleod that complement its tongue-in-cheek writing.

For the literary mother: 

She Walks in Beauty A collection of poems curated by Caroline Kennedy, this tome highlights life's many milestones and the universal experiences of womanhood.

For the mother who taught you that breakfast is the most important meal of the day:  

The Perfect Start To Your Day: Delicious Recipes For Breakfast And Brunch This mouthwatering book from British food writer Tonia George is divided into sections including eggs, pancakes and waffles, pastries and breads, preserves and sandwiches, salads and sides.

A Few Bargains from Our 2011 Gift Guide

We're taking a wee break from our "best of" posts to spotlight our recent holiday gift guide, so we can share a few items that can now be snatched up for a bargain price! 

First, here's the full gift guide again. (Elizabeth is made of awesome, isn't she?)

1. Women's Featherweight Gauze Wrap. Now $12.99!

{Photo from landsend.com}

2. Double Wall To-Go Cups Set; Now less than $10!

{Photo from cb2.com}

3. Olive Oil Pourer; Now $19.95!

{Photo from amazon.com}

4. Caffe Dishtowel; Now $2.95!

{Photo from crateandbarrel.com}

***

Happy shopping!

Valentine's Day Gift Guide: For the Ladies

By Jennie

Jonna knocked it out of the park with her "for the men" gift guide on Monday, and I hope we're all buzzing with good ideas for the men in our lives. But, hey, we need something this Valentine's too, don't you think?

Here are some of my (and hopefully soon-to-be your) favorites:

1. Beau & Stella Interlocking Links Necklace

Beau & Stella are long-time sponsors of Style Lush, and because of that, I've seen their (incredible) jewelry pop up on friends and family. Every time I see this necklace, I ooh and ahh over it. It's even prettier and more perfect in person. 

2. Personalized Paper Notebook

It might be just me, but I love keeping notebooks in my purse and on my desk and all around my house. This personalized, photo notebook would be the only one I'd want to use if/when I got it. 

3. Sweet print

(I Love the Shit Out of You)

(Or, a custom poster with a personal/inside saying.)

4. Fancy iPhone Case

I've only had my iPhone for five seconds, but I've already figured out that fancy cases are not something I can indulge in often. But I can always indulge in getting iPhone cases as gifts. Oh yes.

5. Fun Writing Utensils

If you're a writer (or just someone who appreciates a good doodle), how fantastic would it be to get a pencil holder and cute set of pencils on your desk? Pretty fantastic, yes.

6. Cupcakes Make Everything Better t-shirt

This shirt speaks truth. Enough said.

7. The Fault in Our Stars

I've heard such incredible things about this book. I also happen to love John Green. That's a winning gift combination right there. 

8. Morse Code Bracelet

You can get these sweet bracelets (or necklaces) with a variety of meanings: love, lucky, mom, "all of me," "wild horses," etc. 

9. A Night Off

If you're looking for a great gift for your wife or partner who also happens to be a busy mom, try this: show up a few days before Valentine's, with a fancy bottle of wine and the good kind of take-out and send her to her room for the night. Tackle all the "house and family" stuff solo, and let her have the night completely off. I love the idea that this doesn't have to be on Valentine's to be for Valentine's, and is there a better gift than sheer relaxation?

10. Give Me Some Lip Gift Set

So many fun girly things in this set. I would like it right now, please.

***

What would you add to the list, my favorite readers? 

Valentine's Day Gift Guide: For the Men

By Jonniker

Who said Valentine's Day had to be a chick holiday? Dudes need love, too! But, as any girlfriend (or boyfriend) knows, they are impossible to shop for. Hopefully, we've gathered a few ideas to make things a little easier. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

iPad joystick

Save the finger!

 {Photo credit: Thinkgeek.com}

 

My Robot Nation

For the man who, like my husband, believes the robots will eventually take over, a miniature talisman you can personalize to ward off evil machines. ("Like Wall-E!" I said. "Not really . . . " was his reply.)

 {Photo credit: My Robot Nation}

 

RFID-blocking wallet

For the paranoid type. Blocks magnetic waves emanating from your credit cards so that the government can't track your covert missions to Whole Foods. 

{Photo credit: Thinkgeek.com}

Ka-bar military blade

Military-grade ultimate man knife for the Bear Grylls inside every man. (We have one. It's a hit.)

 {Photo credit: Kabar.com}

Personalized beer holster

You know, for those times when he needs both hands AND a beer. 

 {Photo credit: Red Envelope}

Sports propaganda print

We have a few of these in our house, and while artist Chris Speakman's specialty is baseball (and yes, he's a hometown Boston fan), he does all sorts of gorgeous prints for all sports and all teams. I can honestly say that we have these displayed in our living room, and people comment on them constantly. Beautiful, original sporty artwork with a modern pop-art feel. Big fan. 

{Photo credit: Sports Propaganda.com}

 

Star Wars Old Republic

It's like World of Warcraft, but for Star Wars fans. Only downside: It's PC-only. 

{Photo credit: Swtor.com}

Grass-fed steaks 

Get a couple of extra and stash 'em away for Steak and BJ Day while you're at it.

{Photo credit Lacense Beef}

Homebrewing starter kit

For the at-home boozer.

{Photo credit: Mr Beer.com}

Bose noise canceling headphones

Pricey, yes, but my husband uses his every day. Every day! 

{Photo credit: Bose.com}

Wicked Good moccasins

They really are awesome. Plus? LIFETIME GUARANTEE.

{Photo credit: LL Bean}

And finally, get the guy a gift certificate to your favorite sex shop and tell him to pick out a toy for the two of you. We like Eden Fantasys (our sponsor in general, but not a sponsor in this context), but really, anywhere will make him smile. Guaranteed. 

(You can expect to see the "For the Women" guide on Wednesday!)

How Style Lush & Food Lush Gift Guides made my Christmas

By Elisabeth

I'd like to thank the Style Lush and Food Lush Gift Guide for Christmas once again this year. The following are the lovely things I found wrapped underneath my tree.

The Woman's Feather Weight Gauze Wrap from Land's End in Turquoise.

My color is no longer available, but the Deep Clover Green is on sale for $20.99. SO PRETTY. The grey one is discounted to $12.99!

(Edited to add that the Clover Green literally went unavailable in my shopping basket!! BUGGER. But, I did find an adorable teal polka dotted one here for $19.99 and a wild cherry wool wrinkle scarf for $24.99!)

*****

Stila Lip Glaze Set

I've already used three colors and combined two of them for the perfect shade! Still available for $25.

*****

Fish Spatula

YES. It's a fish spatula. I know. Exciting, but hey, this thing works great and can be used for many different items.

*****

Anthropologie Coffee Mugs

Besides getting a letter E for myself, I bought my husband his initial and another one with our last name. They are so cute and larger than my regular mugs. WIN.

 

Do tell, did either of the gift guides make their way to your house this year?

 

{photo credits: Landsend.com, Sephora.com, amazon.com, anthropologie.com}

 

Adorable Measuring Cups Don't Have to Stay in the Kitchen

By Sara

Weren't the Style Lush/Food Lush 2011 Gift Guides AMAZING?!? So amazing that I sent many, many links of lovely items on those lists to family with the note "THIS IS AWESOME, BUY FOR ME, PLEASE AND THANK YOU!" I love that I can return to these guides all year every time I have to buy a gift and find something just right for my recipient. But I'm not here to plug the gift guides again, we all know they're the best out there; I'm here to tell you that I did get one thing from the guide that I just adore:

My lovely cousin, Melissa, gifted me with these darling owl measuring cups from West Elm for Christmas and when I opened them I was thrilled to pieces. You see, I had no intention of using these as actual measuring cups. Oh no, my plan was to sprinkle them around my house as little places to drop my rings, or keys, or spare change. And that is exactly what I did. The 1/4 cup sits next to my sink to hold my wedding rings while I scrub dishes. The 1/3 cup is in our laundry room to gather all the loose change my husband constantly leaves in his pockets. The 1/2 cup is on my nightstand holding earrings and bobby pins and all manner of random junk that accumulates there. The 1 cup is on our foyer table and collects my keys when I come in the house. 

I love that I can see these little owls in different rooms of my house and just the sight of them makes me happy. Sometimes you find BETTER uses for utilitarian objects...especially when they're as sweet as these owls. Thanks, Melissa, you're the best!

Star Wars Gifts for Your Geek

By Blythe

If there's a man in your house between the ages of 30-45, you might need some of this stuff. 

Or, as Yoda would say, Some of this stuff you might need, young Jedi. (Ha ha!  Ha.  OMG it is impossible to resist years of George Lucas indoctrination.)

 

Han Solo in Carbonite Ice Cube Tray

Light Saber Chop Sticks

 

Samurai Storm Trooper Shirt

 

{photo credits: amazon.com, thinkgeek.com, threadless.com}