Great Gifts Ideas for Men
Posted 06/18/2011 by Lara
Let’s face it, men can be impossible for shop for. Dad’s especially –they tend to buy what they need and take everything else as clutter (or maybe that’s just mine). Here are a few ideas and some of my favorites for the category!
1. Pick a great scent! Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Cologne ($55/30ml, $105/100ml) – Scents are a very personal choice, yet this one hasn’t failed me yet. Although it’s unisex, every time I wear it, men compliment me on it. Generally the remark is something along the lines of, ‘that’s a great scent’ or ‘Is that Jo Malone? I wear it too!’ They all have great taste.
2. A weekender bag – Lands’ End Canvas 1963 Trip Bag ($130) – Something that’s missing out of most men’s closets are a great weekender. This one form Land’s End has that minimal, masculine charm, while still being incredibly functional (and practical) at the same time. Something he never knew he always needed.
3. Headphones – Bose QuietComfort Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones ($299) - If he’s a headphone man, at some point it’s just worth investing in a great pair… especially if he travels a lot.
4. Charging station – Powermat Portable Wireless Charging Mat ($99.99, on sale for $59.99) – If he owns a lot of electronics or travels with several, a portable, compact charging station is both convenient and helps get rid of the bulk!
5. A Sweater – J. Crew Cotton-cashmere V-neck Sweater ($59.50, on sale for $29.99) – Sweaters are maybe cliche’s like ties, but non-the-less super practical and something you’ll notice him wearing for years to come. Just pay attention to if he’s a crew-neck or v-neck kinda chap.
6. Skincare Set with Case - Kiehl’s Dopp Kit for Men ($59.50) -A fully functional and stylish men’s travel case, designed in Italy by world-renouned photographer and blogger, Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist”. It holds everything from cuff-links (the case has multiple pockets) to your favorite products. Included in the set is Kiehl’s face wash, moisturizer, lip balm, shaving cream and soap all travel-approved sizes.
7. Travel Size skin care products - (Malin+Goetz) 1 oz Essential Kit ($30) – If he’s a big traveler or gym goer (and already has the case to hold the products) this set has every product your man could need while on the go (with the exception of shaving cream). It’s also a fun way to try a medley of new products.
8. A candle – (Malin+Goetz) Dark Rum Candle ($52) – I’m convinced men love candles as much as we do, and this dark rum scent is one of my favorites for men (Jo Malone and Votivo are also at the top of my list). Brand isn’t as important as just finding one that’s reminiscent of the one you’re choosing it for. Plus, men smell.
9. Magazine Subscription - Robb Report (1yr/$65) and Architectural Digest (1yr/$24) – Whether or not he can afford them, fancy cars, fine wine and spirits, and gadgets rank high on my dad’s list, so a subscription to the Robb Report is up his alley. He’s also in the process of building his second house so he appreciates architecture or interior design magazines. When picking a subscription, choose something he’s interested in. It’s a fun way to have him think of you every time a new issue comes in the mail.
10. An experience – Whether it’s tickets to a movie, laser tag, pilot lessons or a day at the driving range, a gift that’s something you can do together is always a great way to go. Put some thought into it and figure out something fun! Discount sites like LivingSocial or Groupon often have fun deals on these types of things and at a fraction of the price.
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DC Cupcake Season Finale –Katherine and Ben Get Engaged!
Posted 04/20/2011 by Lara
Cupcake Engagement Ring!
This month reality TV series DC Cupcakes premiered the season finale of their 2nd season. The show, which is centered around two sisters, Katherine and Sophie, who traded their corporate jobs to open the cupcake bakery, Georgetown Cupcake.
The finale, labeled “Katherine’s Surprise”, follows Sophie as she attempts to plan and surprise her sister with an engagement party for her and fiancé, Ben. Funny enough, I was there for the party and taping of the episode (random, right?). Although until the finale aired I wasn’t able to talk about it –I signed a waiver.
Enjoying my amazing cupcakes gift box! Dress: Nicole Miller
Ben and I share a very close mutual friend who asked me to be his date to the event. I’m not sure what I was expecting out of a surprise engagement party –maybe a huge crowd and an even larger cake? Frankly I didn’t care. It was filmed in mid-January, back when I was recovering from a partially collapsed lung (and you thought you had a bad week), and needed out of NY. Any excuse to get out of bed, void of take-out and sweats and put on a form fitting dress (ahem Nicole Miller) sounded like a dream.
The party was hosted in a private room at contemporary Asia-French fusion restaurant, OYA. I walked in and was surprised to see it was an intimate gathering of close friends and family of maybe 25 people…and uh, me!
Ben and Katherine walked in and we’re both glowing, as the crowd yelled surprise. I would like to take a moment to appreciate the ginormous cupcake engagement ring Sophie made! It was unreal! Continue Reading…
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Where Did You Go Louis Boston?
Posted 04/10/2011 by Lara
R.I.P Louis Boston Newbury St. Location
Growing up, Louis Boston was everything that exemplified high-end fashion. Great clothes, quality products and an iconic location residing in a historic building on Boston’s Newbury Street. The interior was beyond classy, and they even had a restaurant called Boston Public. Despite barely being able to afford anything in it, it was really a very special store; one I’d marvel at similarly to a museum with an exceptional fashion exhibit–all year round. This past trip to Boston I made it a point to stop by and low and behold it’s completely abandoned *heart break*.
You were once the greatest location ever, now you're a parking lot:(
After some further investigation it would appear Louis is not lost, just moved. But still, I would like to take a moment and reflect on the store that once was.
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Inside Boston’s The Colonnade Hotel
Posted 04/10/2011 by Lara
While I do consider myself a New Yorker (we’re going on our 10th anniversary in September!), truth be told I’m originally from Boston. Well technically Belmont, a little suburban town all of 15minutes outside of Boston. I don’t really have a lot of Boston pride, except for when it comes to Red Sox-Yankee games, otherwise the only thing I think Boston has on us is cell phone service on the train. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great place to visit, I just wouldn’t want to live there again.
Although after a decade of trips home, only in the past month have I ever stayed at hotels (which is so unnecessary, especially since I think my dad’s new house could qualify as a hotel). Although by doing so it’s been a completely different experience. Last month I was at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge (for a wedding), and this past week at The Colonnade in Boston. This past trip has somewhat changed my stance that I maybe I could live in Massachusetts again if The Colonnade was my permanent Continue Reading…
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Win A Trip in Celebration of Kiehl’s Partnership With National Geographic
Posted 04/09/2011 by Lara
In recognition of their adventurous heritage, skincare brand, Kiehl’s Since 1851 is partnering with National Geographic’s Young Explorers Program, in support of three promising young explorers, Joe Riis, Asa Firestone and Benjamin Horton during their thrilling pursuits around the globe.
They launched a very cool Adventure Facebook tab which shows footage of these explorers journeys– Joe as he travels through Grand Teton National Park to documents the migration of the Pronghorns, Ben as he scuba dives into the waters of the Cocos Island of Costa Rica to create change for the wildlife, and Asa as he climbs through Rio de Janeiro.
Inspired? Become a fan of Kiehl’s on Facebook and enter to win your own adventure. Kiehl’s is offering one lucky winner a chance to win a trip for two anywhere of their choice in Costa Rica, Brazil or The US, with 3 days/2 nights hotel accommodations (up to a $2,500 value); 2nd place wins Continue Reading…
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Celebrate Starbucks 40th Anniversary with VIA Tribute Blend
Posted 03/08/2011 by Lara
To commemorate it’s 40th anniversary today, Starbucks is launching a new limited edition VIA Ready Brew flavor, Starbucks Tribute Blend. The latest edition to the VIA family is a combination of four different beans – aged Sumatra, sun-dried Ethiopia, Papua New Guinea, and Colombia.
If you haven’t gotten in on the VIA Ready Brew instant coffee craze yet (and you enjoy Starbucks coffee), I suggest you try them. Some of you may remember my post on being converted from a skeptic to an instant coffee fan (thanks to VIA). They are freakishly similar to their brewed coffee –but all you need to do to a VIA is pour the packet into a cup of hot water. It’s incredibly convenient for anyone on the go or who travels a lot. Plus it comes in a variety of existing Starbucks flavors so you’re not pigeonholed in your options.
Additionally to mark the big day, Starbucks is launching Tribute Blend Whole Bean Coffee, Canister, and Coffee Press. Continue Reading…
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Kicking off Fashion Week With BULLETT Magazine + Jessica White
Posted 02/16/2011 by Lara
Event: BULLETT + Jessica White Co-Host Fashion Week Kick-Off Event
When: February 9th
Venue: BULLETT Loft, NYC
BULLETT Magazine kicked off Fashion Week with an exclusive event, hosted by Jessica White to celebrate the launch of their inaugural edition, Volume 1: The Premiere Issue. Jessica is featured in the issue baring it all (except for a black rose Colin Yeo hat and Louboutin’s); I like her tattoos.
BULLETT is a quarterly unisex fashion and lifestyle magazine that features fashion, art, film, music and travel by way of fashion spreads, designer and celebrity interviews and travel and artist features.
Cindy Crawford graced the cover of the premiere issue, and looks absolutely stunning in her 10-page spread. The fashion photography alone is worth owning a copy, and the styling is phenomenal (I’m still stuck on the Cindy Crawford lay outs). I was also happy to see an interview with Simon Spurr included. He’s one of the male designers I’m covering for fashion Continue Reading…
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Holiday Gift Ideas: $10 & Up
Posted 12/16/2010 by Lara
1. NARS Orgasm Lust Set – $30
2. Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style 0.33 oz Eau de Toilette. Available in scents: Baby, “G”, Angel, Love and Music – $30.00/each or $100 for the Wicked Style Gift Set (which includes all five fragrances).
3. Hourglass Extreme Sheen Set – $45
4. Victoria’s Secret Beauty Ornaments (choose from VS fragrances, lip gloss and eyeliner sets) – $10/each
5. REN Mini Body Gift Set & Mini Rose Trio Gift Set – $25/each
6. Dermalogica AGE Smart Starter Kit – $50
7. Pevonia Myoxy-Caviar To Go Timeless Renewal Set – $79
8. Michael Aram Twig Snowflake Ornament – $29
9. Tanqueray Gin – $13.99 (375mL/half bottle), $19.99 (750mL)
Okay it’s getting down to the wire. Have you bought all your holiday gifts? Lets talk through a few ideas to help you figure out what to get those remaining on your list.
There are a lot of great holiday sets available right now in the wonderful world of makeup so if the person you’re shopping for has a favorite brand, visit their website and check out their gift sets. Otherwise I recommend #1 & #3 for any picky beauty queens on your list who appreciate quality makeup. #2 is great for anyone from teenagers to your coworker looking for a little friend for their desk. Their scents tend to be on the sweeter/fruitier side. However owning a Harajuku Lover may Continue Reading…
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Travel Essentials To Get You Through The Holidays
Posted 12/06/2010 by Lara
1. Boots No7 Quick Thinking 4-in-1 Wipes ($6.99/pack of 30 wipes) – If you don’t have access to your beauty regiment, these wipes are the next best thing. They cleanse, tone, moisturize, and remove eye make-up! So whether you’re at the gym, on a plane or just feeling too lazy to make it to the bathroom to take off your makeup, these wipes are great to have on hand.
2. Scent Genie ($11/4mL) – Turn any of your fragrances into travel size. The Scent Genie, refills in seconds and holds 50 sprays. Lightweight and leak proof, it’s the perfect addition to any makeup case.
3. Dr. Hauschka Daily Body Care Kit ($22.95) – Just because you’re traveling, that’s no excuse to neglect your skin. Packaged in a convenient on-the-go tin, the Daily Body Care kit has everything you need to keep your body hydrated. Plus it’s a great way to try the Dr. Hauschka’s body care range. This set includes Continue Reading…
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Happy 3 Year Anniversary Gilt Groupe
Posted 11/13/2010 by Lara
It’s true, the savvy shoppers discount site Gilt Groupe turns 3 years old today! Gilt is a true pioneer in the world of online sample sales and luxury creating their own niche with their 24-hour sales. They continue to expand and stay afloat of the industry with new innovative sites for the luxury market with the launches of Gilt City, and Jetsetter.
To commemorate the big day Gilt is taking advantage of their three sites (Gilt Groupe, Jetsetter and Gilt City) to pamper one lucky winner and two friends for the ultimate A-list treatment. The winner of the all-inclusive “Surprise and Delight Package” will receive:
- A trip to New York with two friends
- Hotel room for three nights
- $300 dollars of spending per person
- Dinner for three at Le Cirque
- A photo shoot (one-hour per person) at Brooklyn studios
- Styling session by Gilt Groupe stylists and a free outfit
- Massage treatments for all three guests at Great Jones Spa
- Three tickets to the Metropolitan Opera
- Transportation, including a “Gilt Ride” limo to dinners and the Gilt warehouse.
To enter visit any of Gilt Groupe’s Facebook pages (Home, Women, Men, or Kids) or Gilt.com. Then, click on the promotion tab. The “Surprise and Delight” sweepstakes will Continue Reading…
