We’re now deep into the holiday sprint from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, which means hoovering calories and spending money like a drunken sailor on shore leave. I can’t help you with resisting the former (pass the gravy) but I can give you some ideas for the latter. Like always, this list includes a variety of prices, and can be gifted to different people in your life–girlfriend, wife, sister, mother, or friend. Happy shopping fellas!
This fall I bought one of these watches and I just love it. It’s totally affordable but has the look of a high-end brand. Comfortable on the wrist and super simple to style. The website often sells out of popular colors (like the black, which I have), but they also often restock. Also check Amazon as they sometimes have new colors available. Unless you’re positive your gal will like the really bright colors like red, I’d recommend sticking with neutral or dark colors like crystal, black, sapphire or peony.
Bar carts. They’ve been all the rage and the interest isn’t likely to fade anytime soon. For the gal who loves to entertain or mix craft cocktails, this would be a great gift. Bar carts come in all different price points, from reasonable to way steep. When purchasing a cart, consider the decor of the giftee’s home, and try to match it as best as possible.
For the woman (or man) who loves a good thriller, I recommend this debut novel by Ruth Ware. This page turner was responsible for several mornings of dark circles under my eyes. Fast, clever, and highly evocative, it’s just a fun read for those who crave suspenseful stories.
How ingenious is this–a water bottle with a secret compartment for ID, cash, and a key? A great stocking stuffer for the fitness buff in your life. Another fun twist on the normal water bottle is this Savvy Infusion which allows you to put fruit or herbs in the center column to flavor water naturally–perfect for anyone trying to drink more water or cut down on soda.
Since the weather turned cool I’ve been living in this tunic from Anthropologie. On the screen it looks like a pretty basic top, and it is, but it’s incredibly soft and the mauve (left) and grey motif (right) are beautifully textured shades. Easy to wear with leggings or skinny jeans and a long cardigan, it will quickly become a favorite for the gal who owns it.
In our ongoing national battle to avoid carbs, there’s been a spate of spiralizer devices and cookbooks. Though I’m not usually one to jump on food trends, I did buy a spiralizer last spring and I’ve enjoyed the meals I’ve made with it, mainly zucchini “spaghetti” dressed with marina or a spicy Thai peanut sauce. A great gift for the cook in your life.
Even the most dedicated of runners dreads being relegated to the treadmill during the winter months–running in place just isn’t the same. So for those with partners who brave the cold, how about this cute, practical gift? A warm beanie with bluetooth capability and built-in headphones so that you can listen to music while running (or shoveling or walking) without the bother of headphones.
My favorite Etsy store these days is Freshy Fig. This store features jewelry with a vintage aesthetic. The two bib necklaces at left, above, can be worn separately or layered together or with other necklaces, while the pretty locket at top right can hold a small picture, and the birds at bottom right are simple and sweet. Prices are really reasonable–most pieces are less than $40.
This year I fell down the chickpea flour (also known as gram flour, cici bean flour, and garbanzo bean flour) rabbit hole. Packed with protein and cheap compared to other non-wheat flours, it’s also really tasty. I’ve made pizza crusts, pita bread, french fries, even chips for nachos with this flour. It couldn’t be easier. This cookbook (or this one) would be a great gift for vegetarians or vegans who are trying to get more protein into their diet, people who have recently been diagnosed with a gluten allergy, or anyone who wants to eat healthier. The flour is easy to find in the natural section of most grocery stores, or you can order it online.
Every gift-giving guide, I have to include something totally frivolous and luxurious. This time it’s Kit + Ace. This company is headed by the wife of the guy who founded Lululemon, and his son. They make super comfortable, very basic t-shirts, pants, and sweaters, made from a washable cashmere hybrid. This means that their clothing is exceptionally easy to care for (and great for travel) while also being luxurious, functional, and durable. Sign me up. Great for the woman in your life who loves luxury but has a really basic aesthetic.
About the Author: If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it. Beth is our source for the answers. From opinions on men’s style to decoding the sometimes mysterious ways of women, she’ll take on a different question every Thursday. She also might provide an answer without waiting to be asked. That happens from time to time too. Click here to get to know Beth, then get in touch with her by sending your question to: askawoman@dappered.com .
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