Hats And Gloves And Boots, Oh My!

Every time I travel back to Jersey and NY for a week or few days in the winter, miraculously a warm front sweeps through. I know, it's great for all the people that live here permanently, but I am looking for snow! Like, kind of a lot of snow. I can't complain too much because my snow wish did come true last Thursday, but the snow soon disappeared and I am now left with temperatures barely cold enough to warrant a hat and gloves. Well, I am forcing the gloves and hats because how cute is this pair of Kate Spade gloves, Ann Taylor coat, Cara hat, and Melrose and Market boots!? I keep my winter coats at our parents home in NJ. Outerwear along with shoes is my weakness and there isn't even close to enough room in my Miami closet for all the faux fur and wool jackets in my collection. This leopard beauty was next in queue in the NJ closet and boy was I happy to wear it. This may be my last trip up north this winter so I'll have to squeeze in some other favs before I leave this Friday! xo RCN

Gifts For Him

If you don't normally shop a stocking for the guy in your life, maybe this year is the year to do it. I find shopping for stockings to be the most fun. It's a great way to search and discover the perfect little things that remind you of everything about your guy, and likely things about him you love. This year I got a head start by picking things up along my travels throughout the year. Hmmm, now I have to remember where I hid all the little gems. I'll find them, but in the mean time I will shop for some additional stocking stuffers and bigger gifts. Hopefully, this list gives you some ideas for your special someone, whether you need $10 ideas for the stocking or a bigger, slightly pricier present. Guys can be the toughest, so here goes it! xo RCN

Suit Supply cotton pocket square, $29

At some point in a man's life he needs to dress up. Some do every day, others maybe once in a year. Regardless, a pocket square completes the suiting look. Don't go overboard with this, especially if this is for a first time pocket square wearer. White and cotton is all he needs to look on point.

J.Crew Factory boxer shorts, Mallard ducks, $6.50

Always include underwear in the stocking. J.Crew outlet has great options, online and in store. Pick up a fun novelty pair each year. Z got Labradors last year and is likely getting Mallards this year. Hope he isn't reading...

WindPouch inflatable hammock, windpouch.com, $79.95

The Windpouch is one of my new fascinations. You may have seen youtube videos about how to blow these up. Click HERE if you have not. These rather large, couch-like, blow up seats, weather well on sand, concrete, water or carpet. These are great for any guy that beaches, tailgates, floats in a pool, or has a friend crash at their studio apartment, last minute.

Billions: The First Season (DVD), Target, $22.99

Looking for a new favorite television show obsession? Look no farther. Both Z and I love this showtime series. It is a thrilling story line involving a big time hedge fund manager battling against federal prosecutions from the US Attorney for the Southern District of NY. New season starts on Feb. 19th, so you will have a good two months to file through season one before the start of season 2.

Masterbuilt Sportsman Elite 30" Propane Smoker, Cabela's, $89.99

Smokers vary in price range, so you can definitely spend more than just the $89.99 ticket on this one, but either way it's a thoughtful gift for the griller-barbequer you know. My Dad and Father in Law both use theirs on a relatively normal, (and surprising) basis. I have never had such great tasting ribs. Do your entire family a favor with this one.

The Wall Street Journal, 6 month print and digital subscription, $99

Subscriptions are always great ideas. The Wall Street Journal covers all the finance and stock he could care to read about. The $99 is well worth all the news and information he will fill his brain with, in just 6 months time.

Rainbow leather sandals, $52

I am all for the summer gifts in winter. I mean, we all go on vacation at some point. Two months from now or six months from now, your guy can use a nice pair. Rainbows are the best (both for men and women). They wear wonderfully over time and never hurt your feet. Really, never. Go for the leather option. They come in a few different neutral shades as well. 

Vineyard Vines cotton jersey 1/4 zip pullover, Vineyard Vines, $98.50

Guys look handsome in 1/4 zip pullovers. They dress up and down, so they are a great outfit pieces for day to night and office to dinner. Vineyard Vines offers great seasonal colors. They fit well on multiple body types, bigger and broad chested or thin and wide shouldered. 

Yeti Rambler Colster, Beverage holder, $29.99

The Yeti tumbler was recommended in my girl's wish list, so for the guy I will suggest the Rambler Colster. This keeps a beer can or a Coke, cold as can be. Buy two, and keep one for you.

Bonobos made to order dress shirts, $98

Bonobos digital gift card, $25+

Bonobos is a wonderful menswear brand. Their dress shirts are good quality and better yet, they are custom made to fill your desire for collar size, color, fit, etc. If you know what your man wants, select for him, if not...give him a gift card!

Patagonia Fisherman's rolled beanie, $29

Stocking caps and beanies are just one of those things all guys wear and need. Patagonia is probably one of the coolest brands out there right now, so go with a simple cap and shop Patagonia. All guys can pull off this look.

Weber Smokey Joe Gold Portable Charcoal Grill, Home Depot, $39.99

Grills come to mind when I think of guys. And it's quite possible your man may not have a portable one for camping, picnicking, tailgating, or just chilling on a small patio. Weber portable grills are great for the outdoor guy or one that is on the go and always wanting food. At the next football pre-game, he can cook the burgers.

Lagavulin 16 Year Old Scotch, 750ml bottle, grandwinecellar.com (or most liquor stores), $79.99

For all the Scotch drinkers, Lagavulin is a great choice. The 16 year is a bit' peaty. If he likes that, then this is a highly recommended scotch from those that drink it.

Crate and Barrel Direction 9oz Double Old Fashion glasses, sold individually, $9.95

I adore beautiful glasses for cocktails so why shouldn't your handsome be sipping from class as well. If you are in love with a gin drinker, Manhattan maker, straight on the rocks kind of guy, then chances are he will like these Crate and Barrel glasses. Not only do they have a masculine, rich look, but they have a heavy feel which is nice to hold in your hand.

Saturdays Surf NYC T-shirt, saturdaysnyc.com, $40

In my opinion, Saturday Surf is one of the coolest menswear brands!! If you live in NYC or even shop Nordstrom, you may be familiar. Saturdays Surf is a surf brand based out of the city. The shop in Manhattan has a coffee shop inside and you can shop boards, wax or clothing - a pretty unique shop for NYC.   The T-shirts are comfy and simple, something most guys like in a tee. If he doesn't know the brand, I guarantee he will grow to love.

yurbud Hybrid Wireless earphones, $79.99

Yurbuds are the best earphones. I use my pair everyday. They come in a small pouch, great for travel, and also come with multiple size coverings for all ear sizes. If he is tech savvy, or has the new iphone, your beau will appreciate the wireless and bluetooth functionality.

Nike Free RN running sneakers, Nike, $100, $140 for customized coloring

Sneakers are usually the guy "go-to" shoe. If your man is anything like Zach, he likely wears them whether he is running in the gym, or walking to the store. I am a Nike loyalist, so no surprise this is my pick. The Nike Free RN shoe comes in loads of colors, bright or understated. If you feel like splurging a bit' and want to get personal, Nike offers customization for $140.

Weathertech cargo truck liner for cars and trucks, ex. $109.95 for a Jeep Grand Cherokee (behind second row seating) trunk liner

I couldn't make a list without something car related. This is the more pricey gift on the list, but so, so great. The plastic shell liners fit accustom to each car. All you have to do is go to the Weathertech website and select the year, make, and model of the car. The site will have what you need for a trunk liner, or floor liners for both front and back seats. They remove easily and keep the car spot clean. He will love this!

Rochester Shoe Tree Company for J.Crew suede and nubuck cleaner, $8

He probably has a shoe shine kit, but maybe not a shoe care cleaner for nubuck or suede. Nubuck and suede are materials that also need care, like leather. Gift a cleaner that will help his entire shoe assortment last through the year - or longer.

Sushi For Dummies, play.google.com (or any bookstore), $9.99

Books are a must in the stocking. I gave Zach this one a few years ago, but we never put it to use until this past Thanksgiving weekend. The entire Nord family hung in one night and we all made sushi together. The book helped with planning, and we had the BEST time. Buy this book, and plan a date to do it. I promise, you will enjoy it!

Zirh skincare starter kit, Bloomingdales, $59

Skincare can be a tough purchase for guys. Ultimately, it is a personal purchase. However, I took a guess with ZIRH, for Z, a few years ago and he has been using it ever since. If your guy is a little more rugged, shaves often, or has tougher skin that he wants to keep soft, try this starting kit. Invest in larger quantities of specifics later, once he knows if he likes it and it works on him.

Shinola medium leather journal, Shinola, $48

For the writer, or business professional. How about a nice leather journal? Shinola is an awesome brand, all made in the USA. Their leather goods are classic and beautiful in craft. The notebook is one of the lower priced items in the collection, yet equally as artful as the wallets and watches. Surely. this is a great addition to his briefcase or bedside table.

GoFit cold roller massager, REI, $29.95

For anyone that works out or just gets stressed out, this may help. This small massage roller fits great in the stocking and comes from a great source, REI. After a lift workout, run, or long day at the office, your man will appreciate this one.

Fireside Panini Press, Terrain, $42

Mix fire and sandwiches together and I think you have a perfect pair. Dudes love a hot sandwich. So... for your camper, pyro, or foodie, this is a fun idea!

La Colombe Bleu Organic coffee beans, 12oz, $15 (all 12oz coffee ranges from $12-$15)

La Colombe started in Philly, and has spread to the burbs, NYC, Boston, Chicago and is still expanding. There is a reason for that, because it is SOOO good. For any and all coffee drinkers, there are a variety of roasts and flavors. I put a bag in Zach's stocking each year and think I will try out the Bleu Organic this Xmas.

Leatherman Wingman 14 pc multi-tool, $39.85

You can never have enough tools. Multi tools are great for the tool belt, keeping in the garage, and also in the car. This 14pc tool grouping has more than what he needs to fix or make whatever it may be.

Stocking Stuffers

Chances are, you will not be handing out a list for what you would love in your stocking. However, this stocking stuffer list also acts as ideas for Secret Santa gifts. Or, these "all $30 and under (mostly)", are perfect add on presents. I may or may not be sending this link to Zach, though. The boy's stocking list will be posted tomorrow.

What is your favorite stocking stuffer? xo RCN

J.Crew bandanna neck wrap, $12.50

Neckerchiefs are everywhere, and quite frankly they are adorable. It is a trend all girls should be trying this winter and up coming Spring. I love the bandanna style ones offered at J.Crew.

Zodiac matches, box of 60 matches (select zodiac sign of choice), Anthropologie, $11

Everyone has a sign, so pick out your girl's Zodiac and gift a cute set of matches. If you need something to go with it, well candles, of course.

Novelty socks, Living Royal, $8

Socks are a no brainer. Living Royal has a numerous amount of options for every type of personality, whether it be whimsical, political, colorful, anything!

Primitives by Kathy, set of 2 state dishtowels, Nordstrom, $30

The state hand towels from Primitves by Kathy are great. Visually appealing and also sentimental. You don't ever want to forget where you came from.

Mast Brothers, 2.5oz olive oil chocolate bar, $8

Mast Brothers has delicious chocolate. I originally became a customer because of the beautiful packaging. Last year, I put an anchor wrapped bar in Zach's stocking. This year, I will be buying based on flavor. This Olive Oil bar sounds very interesting.

NFL shop, Eagles or any NFL team beanie, this one $16.79

Most people are sports fans or at least have a team they are loyal to based on geography. Tis' the season for cold weather, so how about a cute NFL or NHL beanie?

Ban-do 2016-2017 17 month agenda, ranging from $10-$16

Soon to be 2017, everyone needs an agenda. Ban-do has adorable options. The books are cute on the inside and out. This one is by far, my fav.

Palm tree ornament, Pottery Barn, $8.50

Every year as a child my parents gave my sisters and I an ornament that represented something big or important to us in our lives over the year leading up to Christmas. Zach and I continued this tradition with one another when we began dating in High School. This year, we moved to Miami so I will probably use that as the ornament theme for 2016. I love that our Xmas tree has so many unique ornaments from every year of our lives. This is an excellent, every year, stocking idea.

World Market tropical fruit ceramic measuring spoons, $6.99

World Market has excellent little kitchen gadgets. I have a set of octopus ceramic measuring spoons from there. Don't let the shape fool you. They work just as well as regular old measuring spoons and these are way more interesting to look at.

Chakra stone set for "Balance" includes a Chrysoprase, Green Aventurine, Agate, and Moss Agate, from bestcrystals.com, $6.95

My friend, David, recently gifted me an Amethyst stone as a hostess gift. Not only was the gift extremely well thought out, my birthstone is an amethyst, but the meaning behind it was special. The stone represents good vibes and having a positive and balanced state in my home. I recommend something similar for friends, like these Chakra balance stones.

Herbivore Sea Mist hair spritzer, Urban Outfitters, $10

When I blow dry my hair and don't feel like doing much else to it, I always spritz Sea Mist in my hair. I feel beachy, natural, and smell amazing.

Holly Exley Illustration, set of four post cards, $3.75 + shipping

Holly Exley is one of my favorite insta found illustrators. She may be based out of London, but her Etsy shop ships anywhere. How insanely cute are these four pack of printed post cards? Stripes, cacti, gem stones, cocktails, I love it all.

2 piece salt & pepper shaker set, CB2, $14.95

I have this set of salt and pepper shakers. One, because I love alligators - I know, strange. Also, I love gold and interesting pieces for the apartment. Whether, your a gator fan or not, there are many unique salt and pepper shakers out there right now that would be fitting to a lot of different types of people. Just google.

Urban Decay brow box, $30

Currently, my beauty obsession is all about the brows. Sometimes pencils can actually do more damage than not, so I am really into the wax and powder color option. This box has it all and fits perfectly in small bags as well.

Lilly Pulitzer drink hugger set, 2 included, $12

Stockings can't fit too much, so some of the items need to be flexible and fitting. My sister Brittany and I just split a two pack of Lilly koozies recently, and I love them. Colorful patterns are perfect for the beach or your own living room.

Christian Louboutin "Rouge Louboutin" nail polish, Nordstrom, $50

Okay, this is the splurge stocking stuffer. Just like my obsession with designer lipstick, Louboutin nail polish is divine. It works phenomenally and the bottle is absolutely gorgeous. If you love fashion, make sure to read about where the inspiration for the bottle came from. You will then want this polish 2x as much.