Holiday Gifts: $25 and Under

 

Under25

  1. The sweetest stocking stuffer, complete with chic packaging.
  2. Easy Italian-American recipes from Laura Vitale. ( a personal fave!)
  3. Brassy candlesticks for romantic dining.
  4. Festive holiday jewels.
  5. For when mood strikes, while traveling .
  6. The perfect orangey-red lip.
  7. For the world traveler’s everyday fix.
  8. The cutest and coziest socks.
  9. An essential with friends.
  10. Tiny animal pots.
  11. Travel size fragrance for day to night.

Fringe Fashion.

Fringe title

I’ve always been a fan of fringe, but other than a pair of suede knee-high boots (i haven’t worn in a million years), I generally steer away from it. Knowing it’s a polarizing trend, I’ve been avoiding it…maybe even intimidated by it (i know right? ME? The girl who wears purple lipstick and sequins?!) But here’s what I’ve learned –like most statement fashion trends, keeping the look simple and understated makes the biggest impact.

Here’s a look at fringe fashion I could picture myself braving to wear. Life’s to short, Carina…just wear the damn fringe!

fringe fashion 2

  1. to-die-for suede jacket 
  2. pair this with a basic black tee and booties
  3. for a cozy fall evening
  4. sexy heels to jazz up a simple LBD
  5. a bucket bag to go with everything

Image via

Holiday Gift Ideas: For the Green Thumb Hostess

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My family is abundant with garden gurus– they can literally spend hours and hours with their hands in the dirt,  nurturing their plots into beautiful creations. I definitely didn’t inherit the gene (Sorry Mom), not for the lack of desire though, I just don’t have the patience.  I admire those in my family for their patience and  nurturing hands.

We are spending Thanksgiving at my parents house this year.  After preparing for a family gathering, I’m sure my mom, or any other green thumb hostess would love to receive any of these gifts.

Viktor & Rolf Flower Bomb Eu de Parfume |  Nordstrom $50

The Plant Recipe Book | Anthropologie $24.95

Garden Gloves | Terrain $58

Flower Print  by Lulie Wallace | Anthropologie $98

Watering Can | Terrain $38

Rustic Seedling Pots (& wooden crate) | William-Sonoma $49.95  $39.99

Holiday Gift Ideas: For the Chic Hostess

264283665Ideas of Christmas gifts always begin for me, around Halloween,  so much so that it’s usually when I start my Holiday shopping. I know it seems early, but hey Costco is selling wrapping paper and Christmas lights…it only makes sense, right? AND having lived the retail life for Yeeears, I boycott Black Friday!

Typically, I like to start with hostess gifts to get the ball rolling, also because they are my favorite gifts to give. Hostess gifts should be fun, cute little things that are thoughtful and make sense to the person receiving the gift. (I wouldn’t give a bottle of wine to someone who doesn’t drink.) The other thing, is that they don’t have to break the bank! They can be small in size and in price. Nothing too over the top. Just a little something that shows you were thinking about them, and that you’re grateful for the invite.

So, if you’re like me…and you want a head start, here are some  gift ideas for the Chicest of all hostesses. AND most of these are under $20!

2015 Beaute Desk Calendar | Rifle Paper Co.$16

Crescendo Dot Butter Knives | Anthropologie $16

Gold Playing Cards | Anthropologie  $18

Eduardo Garza Ring Holder | West Elm $39

Poppin Office Accessories | Crate & Barrel $6.95-$14.95

More gift ideas to come…this is just the beginning! Stay tuned! 

x, Carina