Putting Together a Top Tier Valentine's Gift Basket

 

How about thinking outside of the (chocolate) box and coming up with a Valentine's Day Gift that will keep on giving for months to come?  Check out these new popular picks that will have your recipient raving!

Cambio's Medium Roast Columbian is in a class of its own.

Cambio Roasters LLC Specialty Certified Organic Coffee in Recyclable Aluminum Pods

These premium roasted coffees are paired with recyclable aluminum pods.  What could be better? Well, the taste for one. I have and use Keurig style reusable cups which are both metal and plastic combined.  Their coffee is also in a class all its own. Some are nuanced with flavors of black cherry, toasted almond and chocolate. Delicious!

Visit Cambioroasters.com

MightyLicious Gluten-Free Cookies and Chocolate Brownie Mix

Gluten-Free never tasted so good!  Gift a four-pack of their Vegan Chocolate Brownie Mix. You can also make a pan of these brownies as a gift.  Very chocolaty and rich.  Likewise, their assortment of gluten-free cookies is incredibly tasty, especially the Oatmeal Coconut.

See more at MightyLicious.com

Extra Non-Edible Goodies

JRLIGGETT's Travel Ready Mini-Traveler for the Jet Set!  A great way to sample their premium soaps on the go. No liquids to cause problems with TSA protocols. These little solid bars can serve as laundry soap, shampoo and shaving cream so they are very versatile.

Visit JRLIGGETT.com

Baking Up Love is a beautifully illustrated children's book that highlights family relationships across the generations.  A grand-daughter and her grandfather spend quality time making baked treats for everyone else who is too busy to cook. Sweet!

Visit www.page-ed.org

The Savvy Shopper's Luxury Holiday Gift Guide

 

It's Christmas in New York and the holiday spirit is BACK! 5th Avenue is a madhouse with wall-to-wall shoppers out seeing the sights.  This year, 65% of people say they will be shopping IN PERSON and not online.  This bears out what we're seeing with record crowds.  Whether you order online or decide to face the hoards, these are some top-level Christmas gifts everyone wants:

Luxury Cosmetics that Double as Skincare

OGEE Tinted Skin Serums offer a beautiful finish with skin-loving botanicals. Lots of shades to choose from but since these are skin tints, they are quite forgiving to accommodate a wide range of complexions.  Pair with a set of their Complexion Sticks and Foundation Brush for a complete presentation.

Visit www.ogee.com

DefenAge Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist Tested Skincare

These luxe products are also available in a professional line, at your cosmetic surgeon's or dermatologist's office.  I've tested both collections and they are excellent products even for my hyper-sensitive skin due to a prescription Retin-A regimen.  The OTC products are effective and gentle, especially the 2 Minute Reveal which is similar to IL Makiage's Power Polish exfoliating treatment.  High points also for their 8 in 1 Bioserum and 24/7 Barrier Balance Creams. 

Top Shopping Tip: Order one of the large DefenAge sets and break it down into smaller sets or gifts.  Their 100% Pure Silk Pillowcase is also a beautiful gift on its own.

Visit www.defenage.com

Silky Luxe Lounge and Sleepwear

Forever French Baby natural bamboo pajamas for the whole family. Made from renewable, natural bamboo fiber (vicose), these beautiful pj's feel almost like silk next to the skin.  I've topped them with a pure mulberry silk cream kimono. Since they are made of bamboo, the material is highly breathable while keeping your body at a comfortable temperature. No sweating. An added feature is this design print, "The Charli", was made by a child on the autistic spectrum.

Visit www.foreverfrenchbaby.com

Matching Luggage

Biaggi - Luggage that folds is such a welcome gift for anyone who travels or takes frequent trips.  This beautiful set of zippered tote and onboard folding spinner cabin bag can hold a week's worth of clothes and essentials.  No bag checking needed.  I keep the tote with me in my seat and the cabin bag goes in the overhead compartment. Easy!  Your recipient will travel in comfort and style while the luggage itself folds flat for easy storage when not in use.

See all available sizes and colors at www.biaggi.com

Gift Jewelry

Now hear me out.  Yes, jewelry can be a bit tricky, but it is hard to go wrong with a pair of delicate earrings or a fine gold/silver necklace. Chanel makes costume jewelry, but stylists such as Lauren Conrad, Rachel Zoe, and Kendra Scott also have some lovely, quality pieces that are extremely inexpensive.  I have Tiffany & Co. jewelry, but Conrad's and Zoe's pieces are gorgeous even when placed next to Vancleef & Arpels's Alhambra collection.

So, this just goes to show that you need not spend a lot to give a lot.  Presentation is also important so take the time to wow them with the trappings of wrappings.

Wishing a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!

Your Fall Capsule Collection-Working the Trends

Fall is here and it's time to change out those summer pieces for more substantial warmer ones.  Capturing the beautiful colors of fall, this year is all about rich burgundy, whiskey browns and toasty camel suedes.  My capsule collection consists of dresses, cardigans, jackets and skirts that effortlessly pair with each other making an infinite number of outfits. In general, cardigans are more relaxed, but a blazer will elevate that look to one that's more formal.  Same thing for your handbag. A softer, baguette or hobo shape gives you a casual vibe whereas a structured one is more business-like.

Viscata Collection of Spanish, handmade Espadrilles-The Ullastret Suede Espadrille in Camel

These are perhaps one of my favorite transitional styles.  Closed, pointed toe with feminine ankle straps match my fading summer tan perfectly, elongating the legs.  These are SO comfortable but add a bit of polish to your outfit.  March into fall with these for a touch of extra warmth and elegance. Visit Viscata.com for more on-trend styles.

Diane Von Furstenberg's iconic wrap dress made its debut in the 1970's and has endured.  The one I'm wearing is made of 100% silk with a knit fabric. This type of dress flatters most every figure as it adjusts via built in ties.  Top with a little jacket like this wool one from J. Crew and you're ready for a business meeting and or cooler weather.  Add these beautiful leather wedges in whiskey from Viscata and you've completed the look.

us.LoroPiano.com 

The Need for Tweed

In addition to seeing lots of oxblood, fur and leopard accessories trending this fall don't leave out those rich textures and tweeds.  Loro Piana (above) creates some of the most beautiful woven textiles including wool, silk, and linen.  I have one of his skirts in those three materials and it is fabulous.  As the weather cools down, start adding tweed pieces such as a pencil skirt, jacket, etc.   It's a wonderful segway into fall which allows you to still wear some of your lighter tops underneath.   Visit us.LoroPiano.com

The proper Trench!  Tweed Bucket Hat by Carve Designs, California

So that's it!  You need not go overboard with trends, just think "accent" pieces such as belts, scarfs, shoes, etc.  Also invest in quality outerwear such as a proper trench and camel coat as the weather gets cooler.  Right now, you needn't put all your lighter dresses and skirts away.  Simply top them with a mid-weight wool jacket or blazer and you'll fashionably coast into the fall season in style. 

CarveDesigns.com

Your BEST Back-to-Campus Care Package

 

It's Back-to-College and campuses are full of new and returning students, trying to balance their time between classes, work and self-care.  I remember my parents preparing fantastic care packages for me while attending Rutgers U.  They were filled with lots of my favorite snacks and foods, many of which were not available at the campus dining halls.  Here's a short list of some of the much-coveted snacks and things you can ship to your favorite co-ed:

Nuts - Pistachios, almonds, cashews are all loaded with protein and healthy fats.  They need no refrigeration so definitely include them.

Steeped Coffee - These neat little coffee pods brew up like tea bags! I've brewed them in a thermos full of hot water for coffee-to-go. Delicious bistro-style blends including Blk & Bold Espresso.  www.steepedcoffee.com

Tuna & Sardines - Full of protein and omega fatty acids, fish is often lacking on the campus menu.  It's a shame because fish is brain food and makes the perfect snack for cramming for those exams.

Ramen - Now don't come at me on this one!  Students love ramen because it is quick and easy to prepare with just a microwave which most dorms have.  Send them something exotic like this Potato Ramen to change things up.

Water Bottle + Hydration Packets - Water is great but you can amplify the hydration benefits with these little packets that add electrolytes and minerals often lost in sweat. No need for a huge Stanley Cup either.  A smaller water bottle with the school name is much cooler!

What about some health, beauty and personal care support?  The little on-campus canteens often offer very little variety.  How about sending over some of these goodies?

DVF Sleep Mask - Perfect for that roommate who stays up late studying...with the light blasting the eyes.  A silky sleep mask like this is both fashionable and functional.  Perfect for getting some much-needed rest.

J.R. LIGGETT's Natural Personal Care Products - These offerings from Liggett's are not only handmade and effective but the packaging is genius in helping to cut down excess waste.  An example is the Bar Shampoo and Conditioner.  No worries about spilling bottles in the shower or wasted product. The mini-shampoo sampler is great as you can try all the varieties.  The Body Oil in a Bar is also pure luxury and a great idea as it comes with its own little wooden stand. The lip balms are also an essential for staying moisturized on the run.  Check them out at www.jrliggett.com

Utama Spice Cocoa Love Body Butter - Leaves you smelling like a rich, dark chocolate bar.  Perfect for pampering those rough elbows, knees and soles of your feet especially.  A co-ed will appreciate a tin of this.  www.utamaspice.com

Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin - Sheer Glow Tint is a hydrating foundation stick that is actually good for your skin and for when you don't have hours to apply layers of makeup.  I've been using a natural, stick foundation (Ogee) now for about a year and it is quick and easy to get on.  The skin-loving Hyaluronic Acid and castor oil makes this a moisturizing formula better suited for cooler, dryer winter months.  Made in Italy.  www.charlottetilbury.com

PlaneAire Hands Hand Sanitizer Spray - Recalling my days of strep throat as a college freshman, forewarned is forearmed.  Living in close proximity to other students as in dorm-life and just getting run down due to a crazy schedule of catching the campus bus, (or a flight), can wreck one's immune system.  This hand sanitizer offers a pleasant, easy to use mist and kills 99.99% of germs.  www.planeaire.com

Airborne Effervescent Tabs offers Vitamin C and 13 minerals, vitamins and herbs. Really delicious and easy to pack, I take one of these fizzers at the first sign of a sore throat, cough or cold.  Incredibly effective.  www.airbornehealth.com

So, whatever you choose or whatever you can send will be much appreciated by the recipient. If you are shipping to a student on campus at a post office address, be sure to use a flat-rate Priority Mail, Box. That way you can pack it with as many things as you like for one rate.  

Tennis Anyone? Style Tips for Racquet Play

 

Now that summer is here, you may want to accept those invitations to play tennis or pickleball with friends, colleagues and family.  It's great exercise and if you play at a private venue such as The Bridgehampton Tennis and Surf Club, you can even make a day of it with lunch afterwards and cocktails on the beach.  Yes, you'll need to pack a change of clothes but even that can be easy to do with the right fabric/style choice. Here are a few of my favorite tips for a fabulous day out on the courts and beyond.

http://helenficalora.com 

I'm giving a nod to The Hampton's with its beautiful coastline and beachfront with Helen Ficalora's Sterling Silver Scallop Shell necklace. This NYC based jeweler makes lovely pieces that work with almost any outfit or ensemble.  Just because you're dressed for "match-point" doesn't mean you can't wear jewelry.  Many of Helen's pieces are delicate and demur for understated elegance.

Here in The Hamptons, I play in them all the time and they never get in the way.  Visit her website to experience her entire collection at HelenFicalora.com

Court Girl Tennis Racquet Hat

This cool yet functional cap is a must for tennis or pickleball.  One of the features I really like is the tinted visor.  It allows you to see through the peak while shielding your eyes from the sun.  Very smart for those shots you'd normally miss due to that blind-spot found in most baseball-styled tennis caps and visors.

Perforated and ventilated, it helps to keep your head cool, and the cap itself is adjustable.  Topflight design from CourtGirl.com

Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club, Long Island, NY
Alyssa V-Back Dress in Navy by designer Nora Gardner, NYC

What to Pack for after Court Time

So, what do you bring to transition from the court to lunch or cocktails later?  Well, this lovely little navy dress was simply rolled up and packed in my sports duffle bag.  After steaming, I simply folded and rolled it up.  It came out just as you see it here after being in my bag all day.

So easy to wear and very flattering.  Here on the beach, I am wearing shells, but a string of pearls would also set this outfit off.  One of my favorite designs, this Alyssa V-Back dress is easy-care and always looks fabulous.  See it at NoraGardner.com 

Natural Summer Skincare and Makeup Trends

 

Glorious summer is here!  This is your time to glow but with high heat and humidity come new challenges, namely: sunburn, excessive oiliness, uneven skin, enlarged pores, etc.

What I've found is that by balancing the health of your skin, a lot of these issues will disappear.  A mineral based sunscreen will help prevent further damage, of course but the trick is not to let your skin get to that point in the first place.  So, what's trending this summer by way of natural skincare and makeup?  Here are a few of my new finds and why I believe they will work for you:

The Utama Spice Collection from Bali, Indonesia

Handmade in small batches, the Utama Spice Collection is what you could only dream about for natural skincare.  These products are rich in nutritious organics with no chemicals, dyes or fillers. My favorites are:

Pore Cleanser Face Wash with Clay is very gentle with the additional neem and tea tree oils. Both are antifungal and antimicrobial.  This could be helpful if you are prone to summer breakouts due to excess oil production.

Island Spice Coconut Lotion is SO rich and nourishing.  It contains tangerine oil which gives it citrusy appeal...so perfect for summer. I really like the way it absorbs completely with no oily residue. Very moisturizing, it's the ideal body lotion for all types of skin.

Lavender Dream Body Butter is a little lighter in texture than the coconut lotion BUT still very rich and moisturizing.  The added benefit is the lavender oil.  Lavender is a natural remedy for burns and will also repel insects while allowing a restful night's sleep.

Cocoa Love Body Butter is the richest product of all as the first ingredient is cocoa seed butter.  It's just so delicious to smell! However, it goes to work to quickly smooth out rough elbows and knees with just a touch.  A little goes a long way so this generous tin will probably last months.  See more from this lovely collection online for Utama which ships worldwide:  https://utamaspice.com

Kimtrue Skin Purifying Cleansing Balm

This cleansing balm has the consistency and texture of ice cream as it melts easily into the skin while taking makeup, sweat and oils with it.  A unique blend that includes Lactobacillus Ferment as well as powerful antioxidants, this cleanser is a cut above.  Try it before taking a bath or shower.  Your skin will thank you for it! Available on Amazon.com

Jone's Road Cosmetics by Bobbi Brown

On the left is her Miracle Balm in Magic Hour and on the right, What the Foundation Moisture Tint in Light.  Now hear me out. Usually, I would not recommend wearing something this rich and oily during the summer.  However, it is still important to maintain a healthy moisture balance during the warmer months.  That being said, there's a way to pull this all off.  Use very small amounts of both these products followed by a blurring, translucent loose setting powder such as these new ones from Laura Mercier and Jouer Cosmetics (Soft Focus and Hydrate + Set Powder).  These high-tech powders are non-drying and offer an ultra-blurring effect which hides fine lines and wrinkles.

Get Dressed With Me: Royal Ascot, Weddings, Garden Parties and Teas

 

Summer Vibes include invitations to weddings, anniversaries, garden parties, high teas, picnics and more.  This week kicks off Royal Ascot for British horse racing fans.  Why not take a cue from the beautiful hats and dresses worn to this elegant event?  Used as inspiration, you will elevate your entire outfit to regal status.  Here are some style tips to pull off this fabulous look.

Hat Styling (Think Philip Treacy-London)

Perhaps your most important accessory will be a hat or fascinator.  Ladies never remove our hats indoors so no worries about keeping it on for church, luncheons or teas. If you are not used to wearing one, simply observe these essential tips for a pulled together presentation.

1.) Try to match your hat to a dominant color in your outfit and clutch. They need not be the exact same shade but as close as possible.

2.) Adjust the hat or fascinator so that the brim dips down towards the right eye.  This adds drama and mystery!  Secure your hat in place with a hat pin, alligator clip or hair pin.

3.) Choose natural fibers like straw or sinamay with added accents such as ribbons and feathers.  You can even attach a favorite brooch or pin depending on the material.

Viscata.com 

Shoe Selection

This can be tricky as some event venues will be held outdoors such as the annual Garden Party, Royal Ascot and wedding receptions underneath tents.  You'll be navigating on grassy or sandy uneven surfaces, so I've found wearing espadrilles over stilettos to be the better option.  Very easy to pack for vacation and destination weddings, I'm wearing Viscata's handmade Vernada Canvas Sahara Spanish Espadrilles. So comfortable to wear and better than basic flats or sandals.  This lovely nude color also elongates the legs.  Visit Viscata.com online for more styles and colors.

In A Clutch

It's important when attending these events to bring a small purse or clutch.  You'll want to leave that "Never Full" tote at home!  A smaller bag can easily be slipped behind your back in your chair while dining.  My favorites are Chanel quilted crossbodies and python exotic leather top handled mini satchels.

The Country Club, Late Afternoon into Evening

Just a few more ideas....  If the event is indoors and going into the evening hours, you can bring out the stilettos while leaving the hat behind.  Why?  Well, if the event is after 6 pm, a hat is not an essential item. These Calvin Klein Gayle leather pumps are the perfect height and known for comfort. The DeMellier styled bag is like the Nano Montreal in smooth leather, deep toffee color. Just the right size to go from afternoon to evening.

My Ralph Lauren Navy Blue and white floral cocktail dress is accented with Chanel style pearls, as costume jewelry. Also, when the stars come out so do your diamonds! The new Les Infinis De No. 5 Collection by Chanel is delicate with a chic iconic design.

Stay up to date with even more style tips as the season progresses and you won't put a foot wrong at all.