Holiday Wish List 2017

$105 (3 piece set), Paper clips or cookies? You decide! Justina Blakeney is one of my favorite creatives. Her bohemian, eclectic, color striking style transports me into a dream world filled with positive vibes and natural wonder (plants!). Her newest collection at Target is focused on bedding, while her original products on her website include paper goods and ceramics like these fabulous canisters.

$28, Just because it's cold out, doesn't mean the music stops. Pick from one of five lovely earmuff headphone colors from Freepeople this season. Plug them right into your iPhone and keep walking' in a winter wonderland.

$33, Ahh, reminds me of Paris. French macarons are a sweet and light delight. Dana's Bakery offers an assorted box including flavors like strawberry shortcake and cookie dough. The colorful treats taste as beautiful as they appear. 

$225, The Carry On is essential for easy-peasy stylish travel. Away luggage comes in one classic silhouette, 4 sizes and 12 colors! The smallest of the bunch is the perfect fit for overhead when flying or in the backseat of your car. Did I mention there is a lifetime guarantee, built in battery charger, TSA approved lock, and 360 degrees of wheeling and rolling!?

$24-$125 (avg.), Lillian Grey Vintage is the perfect place to snag a gift for any home decor lover and vintage collector. Each week there is a new offering available, including anything from blue and white heirloom dessert plates, hand painted floral vases, Staffordshire dog figurines, and of course, there is always something new. I scored the dreamiest beautiful blue and white Calico sugar dish that makes me smile every time I look at it. Who wouldn't want a one of a kind decorative piece for their bookshelf or bar cart!?  

$38, A body scrub for a goddess, and that's exactly why your girlfriends deserve this. Pure, clean and natural sea salt exfoliating scrub sounds beautiful for the bath. If the french girls love it, it's gotta' be good. 

$219-$295, Jonathan Adler designs are one of a kind element that fits quite well into any quirky and fancy space. A JA alpaca throw was gifted to Z and I for our wedding and I highly recommend the luxurious home accessory. The blankets come in many colors and a few geometric patterns that are sure to break up any space and add a touch of pizazz to any living and bedroom, even if in a neutral color.

$37, Okay travelers, here is the perfectly posh gift for your alike friends and family. In honor of Louis Vuitton's travel exhibition running in NYC through January 7th 2018, the brand recently released an expansive collection of city travel guides. Each guide is wrapped in a colorful identifying cover and filled with recent must visit restaurants, hotels, and cultural must stop spots. 

$125, For babies first Christmas, or the soon to be college grad. Just a chic little reminder to "keep savin' that money, honey." Slip a few bills inside if the budget so permits.

$22, Calling all planners. Cheers to almost 2018! Time to get ready planning and penciling in all those trips, events, birthdays and celebrations soon to be had. This is a great gift for anyone you know that has a big date approaching. Anna Rifle Bond never ceases to amaze me with her jaw dropping and eye catching illustrations. 

$40, For your new home owner friends, who may or may not have gone to the same University. Go for one logo, or a house divided flag like this. It's perfect for the rival graduates that share a front door. Chances are you rents would love a flag representing you and or your siblings school's, too.

$50, A bright and cheery tea kettle will make any tea drinker happy. My strawberry shaped tea pot adds just a little extra character to the kitchen. And if it's cute like this polka dot pretty, there is no need to store it away!

$48, The most effortless way to style your look is by layering simple pieces of jewelry. One little piece at a time. Mix and match letters and symbols and gift one solo earring to your most stylish friend. No need for two, just one will do.

$18 (a piece), Are these nordic monogram bowls from Terrain, not the dearest dishes you ever did see? The simple almost unseen Scandinavian letter detailing on the inside is quite precious. Perfect for soup, cereal, dip, jewelry, nuts, buttons, etc. One, two, three or four would be a wonderful gift.

$37, I know, I know. I am usually all about Chanel, and I still am, but I think it is time to expand the color spectrum when it comes to lip color in my vanity. I am really into the shades offered by YSL and I think I can trust it will work great, too. All ladies love a nice new lipstick, especially if it's YSL!

 

 

$38 (set of 4), Cheers to living in a world of whimsy! Who thought Sunday brunch boozing could get any better? August Morgan embroidered cocktail napkin sets are funny and divine. I have too many favorites to pick from, I want them all!

$159, This is by far the most comfortable and noteworthy bathrobe on the market. I received  my Missoni robe a few years ago for Christmas, and it's one of my favorite gifts still today. I wear it when I'm hot out of the shower, chilly with a cold, lazy on a Sunday, and even sometimes I wear it down to the pool, just because it feels so right. (Though, Z refuses to be seen with me wearing it in public) The bath towel material and mid calf length combined with the Missoni weave pattern is a fashion lover's paradise! Drink, please!

$52.80, Wish, Dream, Peace, Luck...all good virtues to bestow upon a dear friend, sister, Mom, cousin, or co-worker. A pleasant fortune on the wrist is placed in just the spot that often catches the eye at the right moment to be reminded of such things.

$35, Spice up your life with this collection of empowering female entrepreneurial stories filled with advice and inspiration for all women. In the spirit of women empowering women, this book is quite the gift. Girl power!

$39.95, This is the happiest cheese tray I ever did see. I hate cheese, and I still love this platter. Fishs Eddy has an eclectic assortment of serveware, glassware and dinnerware that are great conversation starters for anyone from political lovers to vintage connoisseurs.

$99-$199, For anyone that likes to cuddle up by the fire, gaze under the stars, runs errands in the chilly morning of Winter, or frequents tailgates and barbecues in the fall time, then a Patagonia pullover zip up is a must.  They come in many different fabrications and patterns and the brand has an amazing history that any nature lover would love to represent!  

$48, In this case, two is definately better than one. Baublebar is offering a few different set combinations with 2-3 drop earrings. This colorful set is by far my favorite. It's there perfect giftable for any fashionista!

$12, Need I say more? For the bakers, gardeners + bakers, and plant, floral lovers. I totally want a set of these for myself this Christmas!

$33-93, A new accessory for Ethel, is a new accessory for me! Consider this a gift for dog and dog owner. Crew La La is a brand I became familiar with when last visiting Charleston, SC last year. I stumbled upon these precious pup collars and leashes in a boutique and have been obsessed ever since. There is an endless amount of pretty patterns to pick from, something that suits all cast of characters. Select from gold or silver finishes and spend an additional $18 to have the collar custom engraved.

$54 (each, $108 total), It wasn't until I lived on the Beach that I learned of the brand Amuse Society, a casual and suave surf beachwear brand that carries femininely designed wetsuits and classically cool loungewear and bohemian swimsuits and trendy graphic tees. No matter the attire, each piece is comfortable and oh so beachy. Every girl can use a matching lounge set for after surfing, skiing, whatever. I am digging this one.

$29, I am a major Drybar junkie. If you ever have the opportunity to get a Drybar blowout, don't pass it up! A GC to the Drybar is a fabulous gift, but really any product from there is just as fab. The little box of detox offers a few of the necessities in keeping healthy fresh hair on the go, and keeps those locks looking lux. Another great giftable is the Drybar duo dry shampoo and conditioner.

$128, Anything as classic and iconic as Pendelton is a great brand to start with when looking for giftables at the holidays. This Motoring Blanket is great to throw in the car and pack along for travels, picnics, beach days and nights.

$199, For anyone who has a KitchenAid mixer and loves to cook. Not only does the pasta attachment make for a fun night with the family, hanging out in the kitchen and making fresh pasta together, but it's also a sensible gift for those that cook from scratch and don't mind taking a little extra time to do so. This gift is on my personal list this year!

$11.95 (+ shipping), Calling all candle lovers! Wax melts are my latest favorite. When I was home to my parent's over Thanksgiving, I couldn't help, but adore the strong scent of wax melts when I entered the downstairs bathroom. Sounds funny, but it smelled amazing! These holiday packs, designed like little gingerbread men, come in warm cozy scents from Snowy Day to Cinnamon Roll and you even get to decide between black/white or red/white baker's twine for wrapping. For a more complete gift, include a wax warmer like THIS rustic one from Kohls. 

$18, Any baker or chef would love a cute set of tea towels. It's always a luxury in the kitchen to replace your dirty tea towels with a clean set of equally adorable and fun cloths. Paper Source has a great selection of hobby and demographic oriented patterns that would make many, more than happy.

$65, The best notebook is the one that is reusable - a notebook cover! Tortoise shell anything is quite attractive and seemingly timeless. The patent material punches this up a bit' and makes it even cooler. Great for any gal that writes, and works a lot or a little.

 

Wish List 2016

There are a million, and one, wonderful, gift ideas out there. I don't know about you, but I do not always have the time to make it out shopping in stores and I also do not have a million and one dollars to spend. Here is my list of some of the best gifts out there this season, all available online. Perfect for today, Cyber Monday.  Better yet, everything is between $20 and $80. There is something for those that love fashion, the beach, partying, art, animals, food and more. Here are my picks for you and me. Click the images below to lead you direct to the retail site for happy shopping. xo RCN

Serena and Lily Fouta beach towel, $48

Serena and Lily has the most stylish and classic beach towels. It doesn't have to be summer for a great summer gift. Perfect for her to pack away for winter vaca or when summer returns.

Kate Spade cookie jar, $40

How adorable is this Kate Spade cookie jar? Perfect for the kitchen in a girls pad or for your friend that always loves the cutest home accessories.

J.Crew slippers, $55

I have never been a slipper girl, but last year I saw these cute patterned slippers and added them to my list. I received a pair of the leopard print ones and this year I am loving the plaid option. The comfortable faux fur lining is to die for! You won't want to take your feet out of them.

Maggie Louise Confections gourmet chocolate box, $38

Maggie Louise Confections has quite the trendy selection of chocolate options. The themed boxes and made to order candy groupings are as stylish as can be. For your sweet tooth friend, consider these beautiful designed confections.

Harper + Oldham cactus tray from Fishs Eddy, $31.95

If you have never shopped at Fishs Eddy, you must check it out. The breadth of assortment and originality in design for the kitchenware and serving dishes at this store, is unreal. Currently I am loving the Charly Harper + Todd Oldham collaboration. Specifically, this adorable cactus and armadillo retro looking kitchen tray.

Dogeared Bee Sweet gold dipped necklace, $58

When it comes to jewelry this Christmas I love the simple dainty necklaces that you can find pretty much anywhere, but I love the meaningful three wishes collection from Dogeared best. Each necklace has a statement message that reminds us that there is good in this world. Enjoy shopping for a necklace with the personality to match your gift receiver.

H2O+ Oasis hydrating skin care, $28.80

For beauty and skincare lovers... H20+ has the most fabulous hydrating cream. I have used this cream for years. It feels refreshing like aloe and I never break out. This has helped my skin stay hydrated through many NYC winters. Perfect for anyone living where it gets cold and simply those that love their skin soft and clear all year. 

Rifle Paper Co. recipe tin box, $34.95

It is tradition in my family to gift a recipe box with many already filled out recipe cards for family bridal showers. The gift idea is great for any time of year, not only for brides to be. All you need are good recipes to share and a really cute box. Rifle Paper Co. has a couple of my favorite tin boxes at the moment. Shop at Anthro or The Paper Source.

30oz Yeti Tumbler,$39.99

The best gift ever. Yeti keeps drinks cold for hours, days really. Imagine ice in this tumbler sitting in a hot car for a day. Well, the ice will still be there when you return to the vehicle. I use my tall tumbler glass at the pool and a Yeti cooler on the beach, always. Simply the best.

Small or Medium National Park Pendelton dog coat, $49, Large coat, $59

Ethel is adorable and looks even cuter when wearing a jacket or jersey. Pendelton has collaborated with the National Parks for this striped dog jacket. A gift for your dog is a gift for you! 

Wynwood Coloring Book, $25

Coloring books are fun for even the non-artist. Coloring is like therapy. My Mom gave me the Wynwood coloring book when I moved to Miami. The art reflects the real art all throughout the Wynwood neighorhood in Miami. Very personal and fun. Add a nice box of Prismacolor pencils and you are still looking at a $50 and under gift.

Smathers & Branson needlepoint collegiate key chain, Penn State and many other University logo options available, $28.50

My BIL Alex recently gifted a Smathers & Branson key chain to my SIL Courtney for her birthday. I thought, "...what a fabulous idea!" For the one in college or the one that still wishes to be, a collegiate key chain is personal and useful. Smathers & Branson has pretty big list of Universities in their product assortments. I love the needlepoint effect in combination with the logo, very cool.

Topshop Leigh jeans, $70

Jeans are difficult to buy and find for people. However, my favorite jeans from Topshop, Leigh cut and fit, are a favorite of a few other girls I know. We are all built slightly different, so that means the jeans are a five star in my book. They come in petite, regular, tall, and maternity. The super tight and elastic makeup helps fit your body in all the right places and really slim you out. I highly recommend this style. I am digging any with the cutout knees.

Coach leather luggage  tag, $65

Have you seen the dinos all over the Coach windows or website? I have, and I love them! I am sure you have a fun and corky friend that travels and would appreciate a dino luggage tag. Beautiful leather, rich color, and a cute icon will help identify any bag on the luggage carousel.

Chanel Rouge Coco lipstick, $37

My favorite lipstick is Chanel Rouge Coco. If your shopping for a girl that is more spunky and likes a punch of color, go with a shade of red or bright pink. If she is more understated and traditional, pick a lighter or more natural color that will pair nicely with her skin-tone. A designer lipstick is a special and thoughtful gift that makes a girl feel glamorous. YSL and Chanel are both wonderful lipstick options.

Alo yoga capri pants, $78

Alo is by far my favorite capri workout pant brand right now. This style fits like a glove, true to size and also comes in many pattern or solid options. Shop online at Alo or Nordstrom.

Madewell blanket scarf, $68

Blanket scarves are all the rage and have been since last holiday, too. It's key to update a girl's collection with the newest and greatest. Perfect for traveling or cozying up indoors and out. Madewell has some wonderful plaid, boho, and classic options.

Sun Bum Day Tripper package,$19.99 

For all the beach and sun lovers out there, Sun Bum is the best smelling coconut lotion and sunscreen I have ever tried. The lip balm comes in multiple flavors like banana and mango, yum. I use the balm and skin lotion daily and the sunscreen every time I go to the beach. This brand makes me feel beachy and fun. The pack with sunscreen, cool down lotion, and chapstick come together in a pack for only $19.99!

Poler Stuff backpack, $53.87

Perfect for camping, hiking, beach bumming, or school going. I am in love with Poler bags. I first discovered the brand while shopping in Austin, TX and later I bought one for my safari trip in South Africa. The exterior pockets are wonderful and the seasonally updated color block combinations continue my love for the brand's new designs. 

Linnea's Lights candle, Vetiver scent, $34

I love to burn candles. Mostly, I am a fan of scents that are more natural and have fragrance that remind me of the outdoors. Never too sweet. My favorite scent right now is Vetiver from Linnea's Lights. This is a great candle gift because the packaging is perfect and you only need to add a bow. The candle even comes with a cute little box of matches, attached to the interior of the packaging lid.

Celebrate Everything by Darcy Miller, $30

For the hostess with the mostess. Darcy Miller published Celebrate Everything, just a couple months ago. The book is all about creating the best parties. I want this book under my tree!

Quay Australia sunglasses, $45-$75

Quay Australia has the most trendy and affordable sunglasses for the quality of product. There is something for every girl, silver, metal, black, cat eye, marble, dramatic, colorful, you name it. I am obsessed! You can shop online at Quay, Nordstrom, Urban, and Bloomingdales.

Kelkuzi original animal painting, $50

Art is always a good idea. I prefer actual paintings over prints of art when possible. One of my favorite illustrators, Kelly Oseid, found via instagram @kelzuki, paints small original illustrations of animals. If you have a friend that loves owls, whales, insects, etc., pick up a stylish frame from Homegoods and frame a piece of art. I personally, love this pink beluga. It would look great on my desk in a gold ornate frame.

Anthropologie Granada four piece tumbler set, $48

Everyone can appreciate beautiful glassware. Anthropolgie by far, always has my favorite assortments. This set of four glasses comes in a few colors. I love the silhouette and ridged medallion shapes. Pair with a package of patterned drinking straws and bottle of Belvoir Spiced Winter Berries Cordial to complete the gift.

Henri Bendel hatbox train case, emroidered monogram included. $58

For the hat lover. This striped Henri Bendel hat traveler is an iconic Henri Bendel piece. HB has always been known for their paper hat boxes (also adorable, but no longer available online). This hat box traveler piece is even more perfect with a handle to carry and protective shell. It is always great to travel in style. This makes it even easier to bring along the hats you want, without having to wear four hats on the airplane or crush a few in your suitcase.

Small Box of 50 bite size cupcakes, Baked by Melissa, $55

Food is a great gift to bring along to a holiday party, office crowd, or to send direct to family or friends you unfortunately will not see over the holiday. Baked by Melissa offers the cutest mini cupcake and macaron boxes. The sweets are delish and they are packaged in a beautiful box with a tie dye bow to finish.

Rosemary & Co artist brushes, $24.41

Any artist knows that great paintbrushes are essential pieces in creating beautiful works of art. My youngest sister Shaina, an art student and painting major, recently recommended Rosemary & Co. watercolor brushes. They are good quality and don't break the bank. Pink brushes were released for Breast Cancer Awareness month and they are still available online. 

 

Birdseed owl trio, $24

I mean...these are so stinkin' cute! Love birds? Love the garden or outdoors? Gift this adorable owl birdseed trio and combine with a bird watching pamphlet local to the region your gift receiver lives. You will spend no more than $40 total. Very unique and thoughtful.

Nike Juvenate mesh sneakers, Net-A-Porter, $85

Okay, I lied. This item on the list is not under $80. These Nike Juvenate mesh sneakers are $85. However, the style is often updated with new fashion colors and the older options are marked down. I personally want a pair of gray, which is not currently on sale. Check out some brighter color options at Finish Line if you are interested in spending less than $70. I have two pairs already and I wear them all the time. I think I need them in every color.