the sparkly life: gifts for her
Showing posts with label gifts for her. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gifts for her. Show all posts

Monday, November 26, 2018

Gift Guide: Alyssa's Favorite Things

luxe gifts for women

Oprah's "Favorite Things" show was always one of my favorite episodes of television. And the "Favorite Things" issue of O magazine is one of the only magazines I actually still buy. Well, I also have a few favorite things of my own, and while I'm not saying I'm Oprah (!), I would like to share them with you! Here, a few of my absolute favorite finds (I personally own, use, and love all of them). Send this link to your significant other or generous parent, or buy some of these things for your BFF, mom, or maybe even, yourself.

Michele's Granola: I love granola, but I can't stand storebought granola. It's either too sugary or just ehh--never as good as homemade or as what you find at a restaurant. But since I don't have the time or patience to regularly make the homemade stuff, I was thrilled a few years back when I found Michele's Granola, which, I swear, is just as good as homemade. Not too sweet, and so, so yummy and fresh. I order it in three-packs on Amazon and it disappears in a flash. (Note: All of the flavors are really good--and actually not wildly different from each other--but my absolute favorites are Cinnamon Raisin and Original.)

Jennie Kwon Designs opal ring: Jennie Kwon's rings are so gorgeous! They're delicate, and justso interesting and special. My daughter picked out an opal ring (verrrry similar to the one shown above) for my husband to buy me for Mother's Day a few years and I wear it all the time. These rings aren't cheap, but they're very classic and well-made. You'll have it--and love it--forever!

Chloe Mini Marcie Crossbody bag: I was given the tan version of this a few years back, and ever since, it has become my everyday purse, even though I used to be a "big bag" kind of girl. It's tiny so it's great for days when you don't want to be laid down (shopping in the city, an amusement park, a concert, etc), but it's still deceptively roomy and holds way more than you'd think. Mine is almost always stuffed with a small wallet, a phone charger, an external battery, three lipsticks, my phone, my keys, and a few other little odds and ends. I get so much use out of it that I really want another one now. Maybe Santa will bring me this gorgeous gray version?

This Will Only Hurt A Little by Busy Philipps: I've mentioned this book before, but I absolutely love it. I'm a huge fan of Busy's InstaStories and this was basically like a bunch of long Stories strung together (but not in a "random" way!). Very funny, very moving, and lots of juicy, insider-y Hollywood info. Also, for the first time ever (!), I actually did the audiobook version of this, which I highly recommend.

Keurig K-Cafe Coffee, Cappucino, and Latte Maker: This has to be my #1 favorite thing that I bought in all of 2018. I had a one-to-two-Starbucks-lattes-a-day habit, and now I'm down to one or two a week. They've been replaced thanks to this machine, which makes lattes that I truly think taste exactly like my beloved Starbucks. And it's simpleto use! It takes three minutes to froth the milk/brew the K-cup, and you end up with the creamiest, foamiest, most amazing latte or cappucino (hot or iced) you've ever had. I'm obsessed. (P.S.: The best K-Cups I've found for making lattes are these from Target.)

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote: I was given this a few years back and it's become my absolute favorite bag to travel with. I love it as an airplane carry-on, because it holds a ton and the bag itself is extremely lightweight. I've also used mine as an overnight bag and even a gym bag. It comes in about a jillion colors, and I actually own three of them now: this blue/black camo, a black, and a gray. Bonus: Today only you can get a free surprise gift with the purchase of any bag. Use code CYBERMONDAY.

Clark's Botanicals Retinol Rescue Eye Serum: I love this eye cream. It's the only one I've ever used that led to a noticeable softening of the lines around my eyes (and pretty quickly, too!). It has this cool cold-to-the-touch applicator that helps, I think. And the formula itself acts almost like a primer to smooth out your lines. It's great under makeup. And though I can sometimes be sensitive to retinol (especially around my eyes), I've never had any issues with this one.

Nike Lunarepic Flyknit Sneaker: I've had these sneakers for a year or two now, and I wear them constantly. They are beyond comfortablee; when you wear them, you feel like you're walking on clouds! I think this exact style may be discontinued (wahh!), but I found a treasure trove of them on Amazon. I think I want another pair of the black in case my current ones ever give out. And I'm loving that gray/rainbow one, too.

Athleta Luxe Victory Hoodie: Two years ago, I received an Athleta Luxe hoodie as a gift, and it's pretty much allll I want to wear in the winter. It's lined in faux fur, so it's super cozy--nothing's better for the long walk to the gym or to school pick up. And it's cute! Regular sweatshirts just don't cut it after you've tried this one. Bonus: You can get 20% off today only with code BOOST.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan: I got this for Christmas last year and I have been obsessssed ever since. It's like wearing your softest, comfiest robe all day long, only it has a nice shape to it too, so it's actually cute and not at all schlubby. I wear it with jeans and a tank or tee during the day, and sometimes I even just wear it around the house as a cozy layer. Now I want another one! I already own it in a light gray; I'd love this deeper gray or maybe a black next. 

J.Crew Mockneck sweater: I bought two of these (baby blue and light gray) a few weeks back when J.Crew had a sale, and I've barely taken them off since. They are so soft, so warm, and so cozy. Love! Bonus: You can get 50% off (!) today only with code CYBER.

Stojo Biggie Collapsible Cup: Although I try to make most of my lattes at home now, when I do buy one when I'm out, I have it poured into this genius cup. A few months back, I was stressing at how many disposable cups I was going through each week, so I was searching for a solution. I just didn't love the idea of toting around a giant cup with me all the time. Enter this genius little cup. It's collapsible!! The entire thing folds into itself so that it's a little disc (about four inches across and one inch deep). When you get to the register, you just unfold it and hand it to the barista (who will inevitably coo about how awesome and adorable it is). It holds a grande size drink and can handle hot or cold drinks (it even comes with its own reusable straw). I have the blush pink and white, but there are tons of good colors. (The solid black one is so chic!) 

Happy shopping!







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Monday, December 18, 2017

My Holiday Wish List


If you need last-minute gifts for a friend, a sister, or yourself, I've got you covered. Here's what I'd personally love to find under the tree this year.

1. Halogen Wool & Cashmere Hi/Low Tunic Sweater: I already own this sweater in both black and navy, and I'd love another color like this soft pink. It's the perfect length (great with jeans or leggings), it's so soft, and best of all, it's on sale right now for $89!

2. Rebecca Minkoff Slouchy Beanie with Headphones: When I'm commuting or just walking around town, I'm always listening to podcasts. The headphones built in to this cute hat would make it so much easier--and so much warmer!

3. Coravin Wine System: When it comes to drinking wine, I have two problems: 1) I'm hit or miss with corkscrews, so I'm horrible at opening it, and 2) I rarely drink it at home, because I usually just want a single glass and don't want to open an entire bottle only to end up wasting it. But this cool gadget solves both of these problems. It inserts a tiny needle through the cork, so you can get only as much (or as little) wine as you want, and then the cork reseals itself, preserving the rest of the bottle!

4. Eberjey Gisele PJ Set: I was recently given the nightshirt version of this as a gift, and I love it; it is made from what is seriously the softest fabric I have ever felt. But in the winter I need some bottoms, so I'd love to add this pj set to my collection. (Because you know how much I like pjs that are comfy and cute these days, right?) 

5. Balenciaga Metallic Edge Nano City AJ Crossbody Bag: This is a definite splurge, but oh em gee, I love it! Here's why: I've always loved Balenciaga bags, and these days I live for a little crossbody bag, and this is both! A mini Balenciaga crossbody in dove gray leather with GOLD HARDWARE! Isn't it beautiful? [insert heart-eyes emoji here]

6. Mossimo Embellished Satin Sneakers: Ok, truth be told, these are the one thing on this list that I actually already own. (Or will own very soon. I fell in love with them while putting this post together and was really worried they'd sell out, so I ordered them for myself--and also a friend!--immediately. They're in transit!) Because, how great are they? They're comfy slip-on sneakers in blush pink embellished with crystals and pearls, and they cost (drumroll)...$27.99!  

7. Sandisk iXpand Base for iPhone: One of my biggest fears in life is losing my digital photos. Yes, I have the Cloud, but you never know with that! And yes I have them backed up, but I'd be lying if I said I consistently and regularly back them up. That's why I need this cool device. It makes backing up your photos as easy is plugging in your phone. That's because every time you plug it in to charge (so every night, or possibly even more often for me), it automatically backs up all of your photos onto the base. So awesome!

8. Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge Rockstar: I love my iPhone 7+, but I passionately hate that they combined the place where you plug in your headphone and charger. I often find myself on the train or in an Uber with a portable charger in one hand, my headphones in the other, and my phone sitting there between them with 20% juice. I usually end up charging the phone and sitting there in silence. It's the worst! This genius little gadget would save me. It has two little ports, so you can charge and listen with your headphones at the same time. Heaven!

9. Hermes Apple Watch: Another dream item, but...a girl can dream, right? I love my (regular, old) Apple Watch, but I can tell it's on its last legs. I love the buttery black leather band of this one--and it even comes in the signature orange box!

10. Madewell Simple Crossbody Bag: Just realized that I have two Madewell items on this list. And two crossbody bags. And, um...two pink sherpa items...! But it's so cute, no? And not super pricey. Bonus! You can get 20 percent off with code ADDTOCART.

11. Nike Air Zoom Fearless Flyknit SneakersI'm obsessed with my black Flyknit Nikes. (They are sooo comfortable!) I've been on the hunt for more colors, and obviously, I love the shade of these. And they're on sale!

12. Madewell Pink Sherpa Popover Top: (What can I say, I like pink, okay??) This looks like an old school Patagonia in a pretty rose shade. So perfect for super cold days. And once again, you can get 20 percent off with code ADDTOCART.

And if you want more ideas, here's what was on my holiday wish list last year, in 2015, and in 2014. And here are the best beauty gifts available right now!







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Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Gift Guide: What's On My Holiday Wish List

my holiday wishlist

I'm definitely at a point in life where I don't need many things. But that doesn't mean that there aren't a few things out there I'd love to have! Here's what's on my own personal holiday wishlist this year. 

Clockwise from top left:

Suite One Studio Rose & Gold Dessert Plates: I have wanted these stunning, handmade porcelain plates for months, but they are nearly impossible to get! Every Tuesday night at 7pm, they do a restock and then sell out in like 30 seconds. (No joke.) Maybe Santa can pull some strings? I'd like eight of them, please. Kthanks.

Loeffler Randall Ambra Flats in Black: You've seen these before, I'm sure--and I've been eying them forever. I have needed a new pair of black flats for an embarrassingly long time, and these are just too good. I'll wear them with everything!

Loeffler Randall Callie Wedge Oxfords: I actually did not even realize I chose two Loeffler Randall shoes until I was writing these captions. Oops. Guess I'm just really into them this season? To be honest, I have always loved their shoes though. These will look so cute with dresses and skirts when I want to be extra comfy.

Twig New York Petals Platter: Love the sunny colors and the photorealism of the petals in this platter. So pretty and special for entertaining! 

Anthropologie Rosedust Cardigan: I basically want to live in jeans and oversized cardigans this winter. Love that this one has a bit of structured, fashion-y shape to it, so it's not overly schlubby. And of course, the blush pink color is just gorgeous.

Day Designer Gold Foil Stripe Planner: I've maintained my calendar on my phone for the last two years or so, but I kind of miss being able to jot things down in a paper planner. I've heard great things about this one, so I'm hoping to nab one and get my schedule (and life!) in order for 2016.

Kate Spade Rose Gold Hostess Set: I really need more serving utensils for when we entertain, and what's better than having them in sleek rose gold? Such a beautiful set.

Yonanas Elite Healthy Dessert Maker: I'm obsessed with the dairy-free fruit "ice creams" at places like Chloe's Soft Serve and Amanda's Bananas. This is a way to recreate the yumminess at home: This nifty machine makes frozen dessert that tastes almost exactly like soft serve ice cream using only fruit. Healthy and delicious. YES.

Clean Eating With a Dirty Mind: I've heard great things about this cookbook that's chock full of healthy, Paleo-inspired recipes for normally unhealthy things like brownies, cookies, cakes, and more. 

Catbird Snow Queen Ring: It's always fun to put a long-shot wishlist item on your wishlist, right? Well, this is mine. Such a cool twist on a classic diamond band. I love how the diamonds look almost like shards of glass!

Gift Cards: I love gift cards! What's better than the gift of guilt-free shopping, after all? This year, I'd love cards from DryBar, Up & Out Beauty Bar, or (shown) Refresh Body, an awesome new service that lets you book massages and yoga or pilates sessions IN YOUR OWN HOME. Heaven!

Lumee Phone Case: I became intrigued by this thing when my friend, celebrity mega hairstylist and social media superstar Jen Atkin, raved about it on her Snapchat. It's an light-up phone case that gives off a super flattering glow for selfies and iPhone photography. NEED.

That's it! So, what's your favorite item? Anything here that you're going to add to your own wish list? Tell me below!

Check back in over the next week for more gift guide goodness! And be sure to check out my previous guides: The Best Gifts for Book Lovers and The 9 Hottest Holiday Toys.

Monday, February 9, 2015

On My Wish List: Pink & Red

valentine's day


I'm sure it's the Valentine's Day spirit wafting through the air, but I'm totally feeling a pink-and-red thing this week. I want that comfy-cool top (dig those mesh cut-outs!) to wear with skinny jeans or leather leggings, that breezy maxi to wear once this ghastly weather clears up, and that sparkling-floral fragrance to lift my spirits in the meantime.

What's on your wish list right now?

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Gift Guide: What's On MY Holiday Wish List

my holiday list
These are a few of my favorite (and most coveted!) things.


I've done a few gift guides so far this year (here and here), but I thought it would be fun to do one made up of the actual items that I personally, actually asked for this year. I always feel a little weird coming up with a holiday list, but my parents (and brothers and husband) always want one, so here it is. These are a few of the ideas I gave them. Hopefully it will inspire you if you've still got a few last-minute gifts to buy. I would be thrilled to received any one of these things.

1. J.Crew Merino Wool Tippi Sweater: I own two of these sweaters already (grey and sky blue) and they are THE BEST THINGS EVER. They have become true staples in my wardrobe, and here's why: The cut is super flattering, the three-quarter-length sleeves means you can wear them practically year round, and they go with everything. I wear them constantly with jeans; they also look really cute with skirts. I have my eye on the basic black and the pretty pink. But, really, I'd be thrilled with any color.

2. Sony DSC-QX100 Smartphone Attachable Lens Style Camera: I have wanted this forever. It's a lens attachment that lets you take DSLR-quality photos with your PHONE. I own a great DSLR camera, but it's very heavy and bulky, so I find myself just shooting with my phone when I'm out and about. It would be game-changing to be able to take amazing photos--with something I can just pop in my purse.

3. "You Can't Spin With Us" tank: Cute! The perfect motivation to get me to SoulCycle or Wheelhaus a little more regularly.

4. Paleo cookbooks: Since I am on a Paleo diet now, I'm always looking for new, good cookbooks. I've heard amazing things about Nom Nom Paleo, so that's top of my list. (If you're looking for other great Paleo cookbooks, try Against All GrainMeals Made Simple, or Every Last Crumb. I own all three and all are fantastic.)

5. Nike In Season TR-4 sneakers: These are SLIP-ON SNEAKERS. For those days when you're too lazy to tie (me, everyday), they're the thing. And they're super cute, too! 

6. Cookie dough scoop: Because I want my cookies to be pretty and uniform, dammit! (This would be a great stocking stuffer for a friend who likes to bake, BTW. One of those things that no one really buys, but anyone could use.)

7. Core Plus Reformer: I mean, I would DIE to own a real Pilates reformer, but I don't have the space (or the funds!) for that. So I'm intrigued by this little gadget, which is designed to mimic the stretching and strengthening moves that you do on the studio apparatus.

8. Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Boots in Brown: I splurged on the black Rag & Bone Newbury boots about a month ago and they have fast become my very favorite shoe. They are impossibly cool (I get compliments every time I wear them) and they are actually comfy (the heel is nice and thick, so they're easy to walk in). I wear mine with jeans and with dresses (I even wore them with this dress to a fancy holiday party!). Yes, they are expensive, but I'm getting so much use out of them, so I justify them that way. I'd love the brown pair for those outfits when black just doesn't work.

9. Gold serving pieces: I highlighted these in this post already, but I just love them so much. So pretty for entertaining (or for every day if you're fancier than me!).

10. Peloton bike: Okay, so this one definitely falls into the "maybe-if-we-win-the-lottery-and-also-if-we-suddenly-have-space-for-a-gym" category, but if money wasn't a factor, I'd so want one of these. Have you heard of these things? They are exercise bikes with an attached screen that lets you stream live Spin classes! So instead of pedaling away watching House Hunters, you're part of a real live exercise class...in your own home. Too. Cool.

11. Gift cards: I love a good gift card and told my family that I'd be psyched to get one to PiperlimeAnthropologie, Zappos, Amazon, or Shopbop since I frequent all of them so much anyway.

Tell me: Are any of these things on your list (to give or to get), too?