In Spades

One of my favorite things about the holidays is going shopping in my neighborhood. Popping into local shops with a hot chocolate in hand to admire festive window displays and pick from a selection of expertly curated finds is so much more fun than the craziness of the mall. Perhaps it’s the kid in me, but I’m always reminded of Duncan’s Toy Chest and the shopping scenes of other holiday movie classics. Personal and special, the experience is magical, so for this gift guide I thought I’d share my finds from one of my favorite local shops, Vocabulary Boutique.

My mother-in-law and one of my best friends both happen to be expert entertainers. Everyone always ends up at their respective homes and each time they have the most gorgeous spreads prepared. These gold, honeycomb tumblers make a gorgeous addition to any bar cart. I’m gifting them with personalized cocktail cards that include some of my favorite recipes. And the California girl in me couldn’t pass up this whimsical bamboo cheese board.

Some of my favorite gifts to give are indulgent takes on everyday items. I go through countless notebooks each year and love to keep them in my purse for on-the-fly lists and inspiration. Another item that never leaves my purse is a good lotion, especially in winter months. Cactus Verde is fresh and invigorating while Coconut Milk Mango transports you to a tropical paradise. Add a pretty hand soap to the mix and you have a beautiful set that’s indulgent yet practical.

For today’s final installment of gorgeous holiday dresses under $100, I bring you the quintessential celebratory embellishment – sequins. Holiday season attire wouldn’t be complete without a dash of sparkle, and this little number has it in spades. A classic shift, the silhouette is complimentary for day to evening transitions and its black fabric back makes it super comfy for long dinners.  Equally sophisticated and playful, I can’t get enough of its geometric pattern.

Where to Wear it:
– Company holiday party
– Holiday date night

How to Style it:
For daytime – cardigan sweater in a pop color, pointed toe kitten heels and bangles
For evening – long beaded necklace, patent leather heels and a fun fascintaor

A special thanks to Vocabulary Boutique for partnering on this post and The Westgate Hotel for hosting.

1. Avedon Fashion 1944-2000 I’ve waited forever to pull the trigger on this fashion coffee table book. To this day, Avedon’s photography is one of the best exhibits I’ve ever seen at The Met.

2. Bow heels Festive, sexy and oh so versatile.

3. Leather clutch If you’re unfamiliar with Clare V, now is the time to get to know the brand. Their clutches are well made and super stylish.

4. Diptyque candle trio You can’t go wrong with three of their most popular scents.

5. Sephora Beauty Icons A $298 value, this set includes all of the top selling Sephora favorites, several of which I use and swear by.

6. Jonathan Adler canister Whimsical and practical, this adds panache to any room.

7. Rose gold watch As sophisticated as it is stunning.

8. Crystal earrings Sparkly, pretty and an additional 30% off!

9. Wool fedora Janessa Leone’s hats are to die for. I love the gold detail on this midnight blue number.

10. Men in Red print  I’m a big fan of Slim Aarons and Gray Malin. This piece from a Minted artist gives the same feeling at a fraction of the cost.

Next up in my quest for gorgeous holiday dresses that won’t break the bank is this little black number. Its shimmery fabric veers silver or gold depending on how it hits the light, giving you versatility when pairing accessories and shoes. The illusion skirt/top combo makes for a beautiful silhouette that will look great on all body types. I love the way the fabric sashays as you move – sexy and mysterious, this is a dress that truly shines.

Where to Wear it:
– New Year’s Eve
– Holiday drinks with friends

How to Style it:
For warmer climates – long necklace (tassel and lariat styles look great), strappy sandals and a bold lip
For cooler climates – top with a leather jacket, black shimmer tights, booties and statement earrings Vocabulary Boutique dress and necklace // Stuart Weitzman shoes

Special thank you to Vocabulary Boutique for partnering on this post and the Westgate Hotel for hosting.

1. Swan candle snuffer. I always thought this was a superfluous tool until I had to repeatedly remove wick trimmings from my kitchen scissors.

2. R + Co. dry shampoo. From the Founders of Bumble & Bumble, this new product line will change your life. Plus, it smells divine.

3. Furry bag charm. A great affordable alternative to the Fendi original.

4. Set of 3 notebooks. Created by a nun turned pop artist, these notebooks feature vivid images of recognizable brands.

5. Earrings. I am so in love with these pearl backer earrings I might just have to get a pair for myself.

6. Bath salts. Infused with lavender and eucalyptus these Dead Sea bath salts are a must.

7. Key ring. This brass key ring can be worn on a pocket or rest inside your purse.

8. Bite Beauty Lip Crayons. A best seller, this quad comes with four festive shades and a pretty mirror.

9. Colorblock soap + dish. A stylish, practical gift that everyone needs in their home.

10. Ticket stub diary. I’ve saved every ticket stub for every movie and event I’ve attended since the early 90s. Finally, a decorative place to put them.

Check out my Holiday Gift Guide Under $25 from 2014.