YM Gift Guide 2014: For The Home.

After taking a quick glance at my list of favorite house and home gifts to give this year, I finally accepted that yes, I am most definitely am drawn to things that are 1) navy, 2) gold/ brass, and 3) leather.  As much as I try to find things in other color palettes, I always seem to go back to these three things, and you know what?  This suits me just fine.  I'm a girl who knows what I like, and everything on this list I like... I like a lot.  For those of you out there looking for a little something to spruce up your home this holiday season, here are a few of my favorite things.  The beauty of buying for the home this time of year, is that you can get your every day items for a song.  It's what I like to call the real magic of the season!

No spoiler here, since she already knows, this is what I'm getting my sister this year.  I've seen this amazing bar cart on pretty much every blog out there, but it was only when I picked it up that I realized just how awesome it is.  Made of brass and wood, it's stylish, functional, and impressively sturdy.  Cheers to that! ($130)

I am obsessed with this gold basket.  Like, I want one in every room.  I could see using this for holding blankets, towels, toys, even as a waste basket in the bathroom or office. So, so good. ($20)

Brass + Planter, is there anything more I need to say? ($50-65)

This is my favorite candle on the planet.  Initially, I bought one for our guest room, but very quickly decided that I needed to see it every day, and put it out front and center in our living room.  It smells incredible, and is large enough to use as a planter when it burns down.  You know I'm all over that. ($88 with 25% off with code GIVEGLAM)

These coasters are on the tip top of my wish list right now.  So simple, and so beautiful. Oh, and they are also navy. Sold! ($48)

Even though these sheets are technically made for kids, we have them in our guest room, and I get so many compliments on them.  The gold dots add just the right amount of whimsy, and these would be great for a holiday inspired room paired with a red plaid throw. (From $79)

The one and only thing I wish we had in our home is a fireplace.  Mark my words, if we do ever move, that is going to be on the top of my list.  For those of you who are lucky enough to have one, I'm loving this personalized canvas/ leather bag for storing wood by the fire.  ($99)

This leather magazine rack is so elegant and would be great for those of you who live with a magazine hoarder, and may also sometimes exhibit hoarder tendencies as referenced by her extensive Cookie collection that will forever live with her shoes.  I'm not naming any names here. ;) ($138)

The single greatest item we have ever bought for our home was the Nespresso machine I gifted myself last year.  We use it multiple times a day, and it still works as good as it did the day we took her out of the box.  While aesthetically I wasn't sold on this one, I took my salesperson's advice that this was the easiest and best machine they have.  Almond milk lattes are my jam, and with one push of a button, and about 1 minute of waiting, I have the most perfect one in my hand while running out the door for school.  The milk can stay in the container which is refrigerated, and then the whole piece can be put in the dishwasher.  Never ever having to wait in line at Starbucks again... game changer. ($399 with 100 dollar club credit)

I absolutely love every single piece from Heather Taylor, but if I had to choose, this pillow is my favorite.  Simple and beautiful, exactly what I want my home to be.  Her tablecloths are equally as awesome. ($112)

Just when I thought I couldn't get any more Navy in to my home, a girlfriend of mine turned me on to this new line available at Macy's.  Love, love, love.  (Prices vary)

Finally, how great is this copper tray which comes with free monogramming?  So great for those holiday parties, this also would make a great gift for those on your list who love to entertain.  I'm filing this one away for future wedding gifts! ($175)

Sadly, this is the end of the gift guides this year.  I hope you found them helpful, I also have a great time making them! Happy Friday!

YM 2014 Gift Guide: For Him

Husbands, boyfriends, fathers, brothers... I always feel like they are the hardest people to shop for each year.   Most of the men in my life either want nothing, or instead they want something super precise.  For years, my father bought his own gifts from all of us, usually for a specific sport he was in to, and when it came to my husband, I would grab him a few things that I thought he would love, only to end up returning 90% of them because I somehow missed the mark.  Over time I fell like I've gotten a little more tuned in to what each of them like, and for the past few years I have to say I've done pretty well with the acceptance/ return ratio.   For those of you who are still looking for the perfect gift for the man in your life, here are a few ideas to help you finish off your list.  Most of these are things my husband loves so if your man is having you send these back... blame him ;).

For the bearded man in your life, a little oil to help him keep his fur nice and soft. ($15-25 ) The bonus is that it makes him smell like he just got done chopping wood in the forest.  (Um, yeah, my husband is never allowed to shave his beard.  Ever.)  Funny enough there is a new phrase out there for all these men who are looking a little more "outdoorsy" these days.  Enter the lumbersexual. Le swoon. 

Beer seems to be back, and in a big way.  I feel like every day there is a new craft brewery popping up on every corner, and as my closest friends know, I much prefer a cold beer, to any other alcoholic beverage there is. The key word is cold, and let me tell you, my husband and I take this very seriously.  We have a little ritual around here of having one beer a night, and we are constantly remind each other to put them in the freezer right around the time the boys go to bed. When one of us forgets (me) it becomes the sigh heard around the neighborhood.  These little ice cubes which keep your beverage cold from beginning to end would be the perfect gift for the beer drinker in your life. ($25 for two). I think we both need to make sure we ask Santa for these this year. 

I got my husband this flannel, which comes with a built in down layer, for his birthday this year, and I'm pretty sure he hasn't taken it off since.  Seriously, I have to sneak it away to wash it.  He is constantly raving about how it is just the most perfect layer on cold days, and great on warmer days on it's own.  It's stylish enough that I let him wear it out to dinner (I mean, it does go with the beard) but also comfortable for just lounging around the house.  ($170)

This iPad stand is absolutely perfect for the techie man on your list.  A perfect fusion of function and form,  great for home or office. ($50)

I absolutely love these buffalo check pajamas, which are perfect for pretty much any man on your list.  I'm pretty sure this is just about the last thing they would buy for themselves, but you know they will wear them every day.  Bonus points go to those who can snap a picture with multiple generations wearing them on Christmas or New Years day. ($50 with 30% off with code GIVETHIS)

Both the LM and my husband are obsessed with these socks by Stance. They come in just about as many patterns and colors as you can image, and add just a little something to whatever they are wearing that day.  I prefer the super wild ones, but they make more conservative ones as well.  Made of super soft material, these would make a great stocking stuffer. ($12)

This one is a no brainer for me, since all the men in my life are surfers, but I have to admit I too love this bi-monthly, reader supported magazine.  This would be great for any of the adventurers on your list, and the covers are always so stunning, you won't even mind when he leaves them all around the house. (Please tell me that my husband isn't the only one who does this?) ($15 for single issue, $66 for a subscription)

I know, I know, I include a T-shirt from one of my favorite stores, Saturdays NYC, on my list every year, but I just can't help it... they are just so cool. Every time I'm in the city, I pick up one for my husband, and they are always the ones he loves the most.  This year I'm loving this cool print which would be great under a flannel, a blazer, or on its own. ($40)

I feel like every man needs a great pair of slippers, and these hard soled ones can actually be worn out of the house on the morning dog walk or coffee/paper run.  Again, something he probably wouldn't buy for himself, but you know he will love. ($110)

This is what my husband is getting this year, and let me tell you, the kid could not be more excited. For any surfers in your life, this is pretty much the coolest gift you can give.  It's basically a fit bit for the ocean, telling the user everything they need to know from their session.  Things like how many waves they caught, how long they rode, how many miles they paddled, and it hooks up to an iPhone to give more specific details and even a GPS tracker of all the waves they rode.  Forget the iWatch, this is where it's at. ($400)

Finally, for the man on your list who loves raunchy comedy, this series from Comedy Central is pretty much the funniest thing we've ever seen.  Seriously, I've never laughed so hard.  Seasons 1-3 are available on DVD or streaming, and trust me, he will love it.  Caution, this is some R-rated material, just be ready. ($15)

YM Gift Guide 2014: For Her.

 Admittedly, this list should probably be titled "my favorite things, and everything else I really, really, really, want" but I happen to think that there are more than a few ladies who would also feel the same way, so below you will find my picks for the lovely females in your life.  All sure to bring lots of oohs, ahhs, hugs, and gratitude. 

My girlfriend turned me on to this incredible lingerie line, and had been raving about this bra for months before I decided to get one for myself.  Once I got mine, I could see why, and immediately ordered another.  As far as bras go, it is just about the most comfortable thing ever, and it has just the right touch of sex appeal, which when you consider there is no push up, clasp, or under wire makes it all the more impressive.  Whether it's for your sister, mother, or girlfriend, whoever receives this gift will be one happy lady. ($76-84)

It turns out that I have been a very good girl this year, and a little elf (me) spent the better part of a week tracking down one of these hard to get bags, so Christmas morning is going to be very exciting in my house!  Every website keeps saying these is going to be a big release again in December, so if you are looking for an incredible gift for one lucky lady, this is it.  You can keep your jewelry, my heart will always lie in fine leather goods. ($460)

For under 100 dollars, there is no better gift out there for a glasses wearer than a gift card to Warby Parker.  Who doesn't love a new pair of specs, and this is one way to get her to think of you every day of the year.  ($98, includes frames, prescription, anti-glare, and anti-scratch.)  Bonus, each gift card purchase comes with their new book!

I keep seeing this coat everywhere, and I have to say I'm in love. The wool, the faux fur hood, the over sized length... perfect all around.  I'm pretty sure that any lady who lives in a cold weather climate would be more than happy to find this under her tree. ($365 and %30 percent off with code MerryMerry)

Speaking of cold, a friend of mine owns this amazing knitwear company, and I pretty much am obsessed with it all, the turban especially.  Her pieces are incredibly made, and beyond stylish. (from $75)

I picked up these shoes earlier this year after blowing out my old ones, sort of on a whim, and I have to say I will never go back to a traditional running shoes.  These are perfect for the gym rat friend on you list, as they are designed for people whose main workout is done inside a gym.  While you can run in them, they are really for the boot camp, spin, zumba, etc... crowd, and I have to say they really do make a difference in your workout.  Unlike a traditional shoe, these are almost like aqua socks on the inside, with a light casing on the outside.  They are breathable, allow you to better grip the ground, and weigh next to nothing.  In short, they are awesome. ($100)

For the working girl on your list, I absolutely love this glam pencil set.  A chic way to dress up any office and to help her start the new year a little more organized than the last. ($48)

If I had a favorite thing on this list, these pajamas would be it.  Soft, flirty, and oh so comfortable, these are what I plan to wear to bed for the rest of my life.  ($55 and %30 percent off with code Merriest)

 If you are looking to give a gift that is pure luxury this year, this brush is it.   Year, after year, I see this brush on every one's list of "must have" beauty products, but I have never been able to justify the cost for myself.   For those of you looking to really spoil someone, look no further than this iconic hairbrush. ($90-200)

For the fashionista on your list, this coffee table book featuring over 100 photographs from Mario Testino of Kate Moss, spanning decades, would be the most incredible gift.   I missed the showing of this at the MFA when it was in town, and I regret it to this day.  Here is the perfect way to gift a little piece of fashion history.  ($40)

Okay, so this one is probably more of a dream present for just about anyone, but I had to include them because to this day these Valentino flats are pretty much the best material gift I have ever received.  My incredible, and generous girlfriends, gifted me a pair of these in peacock blue for my birthday last year, and I have surprised even myself at the amount of times that I've worn them.  They are beyond stylish, so comfortable, and really do go with almost everything.  Most days, I can barely make it out of the house without receiving a complement while wearing them, and if you are looking for a gift with a real wow factor, look no further. ($650-795 depending on color and finish)

Finally, what girl doesn't love a great watch? This rose gold one is perfect for layering, and is casual enough for everyday wear.  Perfect for those on your list who are always running a little late.  You know who you are!  ($175)

YM Gift Guide 2014: Gifts Under $100

 For me, the hardest people to do holiday shopping for are typically those who receive gifts that are on the smaller side.  People like our boys' teachers, or school staff, babysitters, housekeepers, music teachers, and those who work our building.  I was texting with a friend yesterday, and she said it best, "how many Starbucks cards does one really need?" ( I think wine or candles could easily be inserted here as well.)  Of course, there is a reason we all tend to gravitate to the same gifts, partly because of ease, but also because they are inoffensive, and you know the receiver will like and use the gift.  Most people enjoy coffee, wine, and great smelling candles.  Heck, if it were up to me, they would probably be one of the three food groups!  However, what these gifts gain in usability, they lack in personality, and I've found that when you are giving something small, making it personal goes a long way.  

With that sentiment in mind, below you will find my first gift guide of the season.  Most of these are under $50 and I hope they help you find gifts for those on you list who may not receive the biggest presents you give this year, but who make the most impact on your day to day life.

I love this marble rolling pin ($18) for those who love to bake. Even better when paired with this Momofuku Milk Bar Cookie Mix ($17) On it's own the pin would make a great hostess gift as well!

Who doesn't love a great thermos ($30) and you could definitely gift this with some great whiskey ($25) or gourmet hot chocolate and marshmallows ($35.) 

These adorable watering cans ($60) are pretty much the cutest thing ever (I love the gold) and I would definitely gift this to the boys' teachers with a nice plant. You could use this special way to personalize it like we did at the end of last year. 

This is the gift that I'm giving pretty much everyone this year, (spoiler alert) beautiful personalized stationary that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. (from $35 for 15)

I love these little leather pouches ($60-80) that can be monogrammed with two or three initials. So chic, and so useful! 

I think this doormat is pretty great. Perfect for a neighbor, or new homeowner! ($50)

A great little desk lamp ($60) perfect for those babysitters living in a dorm or new apartment. Paired with a cute new book that helps you be more Parisian wherever you are makes a Tres Chic gift anyone will love. 

This would be a sweet gift to go along with those Starbucks gift cards ($60) because, well... coffee.

If you are in a time pinch, or these ideas are't really what you are looking for, I often will gift a few bottles of nail polish, along with a gift certificate for a manicure/pedicure for somewhere near the receiver's home or school, or a massage or facial at a local spa.  A little indulgence always goes a long way during the holiday season!

2013 Holiday Gift Guide: For Everyone.

 Since the holidays are all about giving, why not take the opportunity to really give back this year? Let's be honest, if you are reading this on any type of electric device, and you aren't hungry, and you have clothes and fresh water, and aren't in fear of your life, than really, you, like me, don't need anything. The perfect gift for anyone in your life is most definitely a donation in their name to a cause that will continue to give throughout 2014. That candle or scarf you were eyeing for your sister… probably won't last through January.

Here are 5 great ways to give to those who are really in need. No wrapping required.

Kiva is an incredible site that allows you make microloans to people in developing countries. You are able to chose a recipient, track their progress, and when they repay the loan, you can re-donate it to someone else. How cool is that? The concept is so incredibly simple, and I hope it catches on! This is perfect for those office or family gifts with a 25$ limit, or even as a hostess gift with a beautiful card. 

I was turned on to Skateistan though my son's skate network, and I have continued to follow this amazing school throughout the past year. It provides education and sports (the central theme is skateboarding) to young women in Afghanistan and Cambodia. Watch this video and you too will be blown away!!! 

This one is important to me for obvious reasons, and I am so impressed with the way that the country has come together to help all the victims after the April bombing in my beautiful city. My Dad was at an event in California, where some of those injured were receiving new limbs, and that story has stayed with me almost as intensely as my memories from the day of the explosion. So many people were affected that day, and many will need support for the rest of their lives. This central fund makes sure that no person is forgotten. 

I still think about those kids every day. For almost a year they have been one of the first things I think of when I wake up in the morning. I am so incredibly frustrated that the anniversary of this massacre is upon us, and we as a nation have done so little to make our kids any safer. Politics and anger aside, this fund is set up to directly help those in the Newtown community and I can't think of a better war to honor those beautiful children, then to continue to give services and aid to all of the families affected by that preventable tragedy. 

We all have seen the devastating aftermath from the Typhoon in the Philippines, and this beautiful country needs so much help right now. My kids and I talk a lot about how much need there is out there, and this is one place that needs the whole world's help right now.

If you have a cause or charity that is important to you, please feel free to leave a link in the comments section!