Holly's Favorite Things - Holiday Gift Guide 2012

Oprah has her "Favorite Things" for the holiday season each year, so why can't I?  Here's my list of top gift picks for the 2012 holidays.  Men, ask your ladies and I am sure there are several things on my list that they would want for Christmas!  Ladies...email this page to your guy to drop some not-so-subtle hints.

1.  For the fashionistas -  
Chunky Infinity Scarf by Paula Bianco - revolveclothing.com $71

A cozy chunky loop scarf is a great neutral shade can be paired with so many great wardrobe items.  Plus..they're really warm and comfy!


2.  Hue Solid Skinny Jeanz Leggings - Black $29

I seriously wear my Hue jeggings all the time.  They are so comfortable and great to throw on with an oversized sweater and flats.  The color is a faded black and matches everything.

3.  Capri Blue - Volcano scented candle $25 - $88 depending on size  (anthropologie.com)

This is the BEST candle out there!  The scent is heavenly and makes my house smell like my favorite store...Anthropologie of course.  The lid is a plus because you don't have to blow out the candle and have that smokey after smell.  The $88 version is HUGE..it has like 3 wicks.

 

4.  Vintage Tall Sweater Sock - Free People $20

These socks are the perfect companion to a pair of tall riding boots.  They look amazing over leggings or skinny jeans.


5.  OPI Top Ten Set - available at ULTA $25

Who wouldn't want the 10 best selling shades of OPI polishes??  I love the "You Don't know Jacques" and the "Lincoln Park after Dark" shades.  Great stocking stuffer.

6.  Trish McEvoy - Voyager Collection Glamourous Beauty Kit $85

Seriously...this makeup is the best.  I have used Trish McEvoy since 1999 and have been loyal to the brand ever since.  Trish makeup is an OCD organizer freak's best friend.  You buy the individual squares or rectangles of makeup and arrange them on a magnetic page in a zip up leather planner.  You can create your own color palates.  It is so easy to just zip it up and go.  The brushes are awesome too! This kit is a great starter kit if you are looking to throw out your random Wal-Mart makeup.

7.  For the tech-savy ladies:
   Michael Kors iPhone Case $80

Great for parties, concerts, football games, shopping...anywhere that you don't want to lug the giant purse to.  I am a huge fan of all Michael Kors products and love the metallics.

8.  iPad Mini in white $329

I am a Macbook Air user myself and have tried the big original iPad before.  I think this smaller version is better because you could throw it in your purse or tote - it's less bulky and more portable.  But...larger than the iPhone so that the visually challenged people like myself can get a better view.  White is my color choice for the ladies.

9. For the cook of the house -  
   Williams Sonoma Gold Touch 4 piece pan set $99

I am obsessed with my Williams Sonoma bakeware.  I registered for at least a dozen pieces when I got married.  I use them all the time and they look brand new.  The nonstick surface is great and requires little scrub time which all dishwashers out there will appreciate.

10.  For the jewelry obsessed -
Micheal Kors Rose Gold Watch - Bloomindale's $250

I don't own a watch, but if I did, it would definitely be one like this.  The rose gold is so unique.


So, there's my top 10 holiday gifts for 2012.  I am really feeling inspired to start my holiday shopping now...how about you??  Until next time....

Hooray for Chambray

Looking for a way to class up your boring fall sweaters?  Layering a sweater over a chambray shirt can create some snazzy looks to take you through the fall season.  There are so many looks you can create - preppy or cozy....it's a great outfit to wear at Thanksgiving dinner with some stretchy leggings to allow for expansion after devouring the turkey and dressing.

Start with a great basic like this from JCrew.

Layer over a loose knit or chunky sweater.  Pair with colored tights, feminine skirt, and booties.

Or...wear under a chunky sweater, cardigan, or sweatercoat.  Pair with an equestrian style belt and leggings or jeggings and of course, tall riding boots.

Bring out those colored jeans from the spring!  You can transition into the fall by layering with a sweater.  Bring it back to fall wearing camel boots/booties and carrying a camel purse.

There's always the classic head-to-toe denim look.  Nude shoes and a navy blazer really add lots of class to this look.  Just make sure your shades of denim are varied.

Where are you going to buy your Chambray Shirt?  Here are my pics:

JCrew - Keeper Chambray Shirt $78

Anthropologie - Stitched chambray buttondown $128

Gap - Easy Chambray Shirt $49

Anthropologie - Fitted Chambray Buttondown $88

Madewell - Chambray Cargo Shirt Cornflower Wash $75

Urban Outfitters - BDC Button down chambray tunic $64

Banana Republic - Soft wash denim shirt $69

Lucky Brand - Chambray top $75

Looking to spend less?  I have seen similar styles in Target, Old Navy, and American Eagle.  Go out and snag yours today.  I would definitely be out buying one of these now, but living in Auburn has its shopping limitations (especially on game days)!

Hope everyone has a wonderful week and Happy Thanksgiving!

Peter Pan Collars

Hello a la mode lovers!  It's Tuesday and I am recuperating from a three day weekend of fun.  It seems like the more time I have off, the harder it is to go back to work.  I spent some time on Sunday shopping at the Summit with my super sweet mother in law, Joy.  During our two hour plus time spent in Anthropologie...I know, it is sad that I could spend that long in one store....I came across some great pieces that woke up my fashion taste buds.  Peter Pan collars are everywhere!  On shirts, dresses, and even jewelry...the Peter Pan trend is one to be added to the fall shopping list.

Here are the pieces at Anthropologie that first sparked my interest:



The Peter Pan collar necklace is on the top of my Peter Pan trend wishlist.  The good thing about wearing this trend as a piece of jewelry is that you can change it out with a variety of tops or dresses.  You have to be careful of the neckline that you place this piece with....it needs to be a crewneck or high scoop neck.

Some of my Peter Pan Picks:

This trend is feminine and flirty, so I would suggest pairing a Peter Pan collared shirt with a tailored pencil skirt, full skirt, trouser pants, or skinny jeans.  My two outfit creations will have you headed to Never Never Land in no time.

Preppy Peter Pan Skirt outfit:

• Top - Anthropologie
• Belt - Anthropologie
• Shoes - Seychelles
• Bag - Michael Kors

Pants outfit:

• Top - Jcrew
• Pants - Level 99 plum pants
• Shoes - Jcrew
• Bag - Hobo International

Hope you can use these ideas for some outfit inspirations!   Until next time....

Wild About Animal Sweaters

Children of the 80's - you will totally relate!

Remember waking up on Christmas morning, running to the Christmas tree to open gifts, and frantically tearing into Grandma's package hoping for the latest version of Malibu Barbie only to find a hideous excuse for a sweater covered in kittens and bows?  All you wanted to say was "damn it" but apparently, that's not appropriate for a seven year old to say.  And, what's worse...your mom made you wear it for picture day at school as permanent evidence of your embarrassment.

Believe it or not, I am actually putting an animal sweater on my Christmas list and maybe Grandma will come through for me again!  These are not the kittens and bows sweaters of the 80s and definitely do not belong in grandma's closet.  These sweaters embody all things cute and stylish.  They are appearing everywhere - puppies, tigers, foxes, kittens, owls, birds, chickens, you name it!  Here are some of my favorites.  

Top Row:  J Crew, Free People, J Crew, Joie

Bottom Row: Topshop, asos.com, asos.com

Not sure how to wear your animal sweater?  I created three looks to fit your style.  

Comfy look:

• Sweater - topshop.com
• Jeans - Citizens of Humanity
• Boots - Frye Paige Tall Riding Boot
• Bag - Marc Jacobs Too Hot to Handle

Preppy look:

• Sweater - jcrew.com
• Chambray shirt - anthropologie.com
• Shoes - anthropologie.com
• Clutch - Tory Burch

Boho Chic Look:

• Sweater - Joie
• Leggings - free people
• Shoes - Sam Edelman Flora loafer flat
• Bag - Michael Kors

Happy sweater hunting!   And while your at it, share your 80's sweater nightmare stories with me in the comments below.  I know I can't be alone in my sweater shame!

Hunter Green Trend Alert

Are you green with envy over the most fantastic color for fall?  I am obsessing over hunter/forest green and am ready to purchase something in this fabulous hue for my fall wardrobe.   At the top of my list are hunter green skinny jeans and a hunter green sweater to wear with jeans and boots of course.

Where to shop:
Sweaters:  Loft, Loft, Free People
Pants:  Tory Burch, J Crew, and Level 99
Skirt:  Anthropologie
Handbags:  Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Kate Spade
Necklace:  J Crew
Ring:  Banana Republic
Nail Polish:  Essie "Stylenomics"
Flats:  Tory Burch

First comes love, then comes marriage....

It's Tuesday, and this week seems to be dragging on.   I have been MIA the past week because I am hard at work doing calligraphy for an upcoming wedding - 200 invitations to do.   That's one of my talents and I have been praised for my handwriting since kindergarten at Rocky Ridge Elementary with Miss Hayes.  Who knew that handwriting could actually lead to some extra shopping money!!  I have dozens of satisfied brides all over Alabama and Georgia.  Here's a sample of my work.

After doing calligraphy for two hours straight, my hand was getting numb and my eyes were starting to cross so I figured I better take a break.  Speaking of weddings....marriages most of the time lead to babies.  Don't get any ideas...no babies for me yet.  But, for some reason, I had babies on the mind and designed a girly nursery for my imaginary child.  This is the look I would want for my baby girl's nursery one day.

The paneling adds some architectural flare and dimension into this design.  Accents of gold are found in the orb chandelier, monogram, dresser/changing table, and side table.  The main inspiration for this room is the rug, "Gloria's Garden", from Anthropologie (where else!!).  The color palette is simple - shades of pink and grey with pops of wild colors from the rug.  My other favorite item in the room is the flamingo print which ties in the curtains and wall color perfectly.  

Like what you see Moms-to-be??  Contact me if you would like your own nursery or other room designed just for you.  

Camel Craving!

Lately, I have been craving all things camel in my wardrobe.  I've had my eye on these Frye Boots for a few days and sweet hubby got them for me at Monkee's of Auburn for an early birthday gift.  No, my b'day is not until December, but the heart wants what it wants.  And the heart wants them NOW!

Frye Carson Riding Boot - Camel

The weather is starting to turn slightly cooler down here on the plains, and boot season is right around the corner.  Every girl needs a pair of riding boots this fall.  Of course, I would recommend camel or brown for this season.  Need some riding boot outfit inspiration?  I have created three looks which all have key trends for fall.  You can dress the boots up or down.  My favorite look is an oversized sweater with jeans and leggings.

Look #1 (left):  

• Sweater:  Free People -  Marled Yarn Pullover $88
• Jeans:  James Jeans - Twiggy legging $106
• Scarf:  Anthropologie - Olin Loop $58
• Handbag:  Marc Jacobs - Petal to the Metal $528

Look #2 (middle): 

• Dress:  Anthropologie - Threaded Trails Swing Dress $118
• Tights:  Anthropologie - Peony Printed Tights $20
• Belt:  Anthropologie - Two Toned Skinny Belt $28
• Handbag:  Rebecca Minkoff - Drew Hobo $52

Look #3 (right):

• Sweater:  Nordstrom Trouve oversize sweater $68
• Jeans:  Citizens of Humanity Avedon Skinny jean $209
• Necklace:  piperlime.com  House of Harlow:  5 station necklace $75
• Handbag:  Michael Kors Fulton Large Crossbody python $198

More great riding boots:

Steven by Steve Madden - Stingrey $229

Arturo Chiang - Fierce Riding Boot $149

Sam Edelman - Penny $190

UGG - Cydnee Riding Boots $295

Can't wait to start wearing boots, leggings, and cozy sweaters again!  It will probably be warm until Christmas around here, but one can keep dreaming about it.  Hope you have found some inspiration for your fall wardrobe!  

Danielle's Master Bedroom Makeover

Happy Monday to everyone out there!  Another work week begins yet again!  I wanted to share my latest project with you guys that has made me so excited.  My super stylish and sweet friend, Danielle, wants to redecorate her master bedroom and I offered to work up a design for her around her already purchased Dwell Studio bedding.

ROOM INSPIRATION:

Dwell Studio Bedding

I am feeling super inspired at this point after looking at the fabulous colors in the bedding - my favorites....turquoise and yellow.  What possibilities!!  Danielle wants to change pretty much everything else about her room down to the paint and flooring.  She is planning on having hardwoods installed in all her bedrooms to match the rest of the house.  Since I know her style pretty well, it was pretty easy to come up with an inspiration board.

Here are some options that I came up with to fit different budgets and room size concerns.  Danielle really wants the king size tufted bed with mirror accents and the velvet Anthropologie curtains, so those items are non-negotiable!  Different options for nightstands, pillows, lamps, and accessories can let us save some money on the budget. 

 Anthropologie Velvet Parlor Curtains

Dwell Studio Peacock Bedding

Reclaimed wood curved front nightstands

Hooker Sanctuary Tufted Bed with Mirror accents

Accent pillows from Anthropologie and Layla Grayce

Chevron rug from Layla Grayce

Neutral grey wall color

 More affordable nightstands from World Market

Grey and Yellow Chevron Rug from DwellStudio

Lamps from TJ Maxx

Light turquoise wall color

Different Rug Option

Stay tuned to see how the room turns out!  I know it's going to be fabulous.  I am so excited that Danielle involved me on this project.  Like what you see?    Contact me for information on my e-design services.  Hope everyone has a great week and that Friday comes soon.

Fall Nail Polish Faves

Lately, I have been obsessing over painting my nails...which honestly, I haven't really done since the seventh grade when I would change my polish color each night to match my outfit.  Some of my Berry Middle School friends can attest to this!  I usually forgo the manicure because it only lasts a few days.  The past few weeks, I have amazingly gotten the polish to last for about 5-6 days.  And, I have actually been cooking at home and washing dishes.  Even scrubbed the shower!   The brand of nail polish makes a huge difference.  My top three brands are OPI, China Glaze, and Essie.  I start with OPI nail strengthener as a base coat, at least 3 coats of polish, and finish with a clear top coat.

Need some fall nail inspiration?   Add these trends to your fall nail shopping basket at my fave beauty supply store, Ulta.

• Oxblood - this color is so hot right now.  The darker the better!

OPI - Can you Tapas This

China Glaze - Call of the Wild

• Grey - so neutral but so fabulous.  Shades range from light flat silver to dark mochas

OPI - You Don't Know Jacques

OPI - Over the Taupe

• Jewel Tones - think of that plaid couch that we all had in the early 90's!  It's back!!

Essie - Smokin Hot

China Glaze - Exotic Encounters

Essie - Bobbing For Baubles

• Textured - leather, matte, and suede finishes - no top coat here!  Haven't tried this one yet, but looks like fun.  OPI has a "Suede" and "Matte" collection.

OPI - Suzi Skies in the Pyrenees