With Christmas exactly 10 days away, our style elves are busy scouting out the most amazing, imaginative, exciting gift ideas out there. And, since they like to stay organized, this year they convinced us to have an A to Z theme for our Holiday Gift Guide.
Over the past few weeks, we've covered great gifts in the A to L spectrum of the alphabet, and now we're rapidly moving towards the finish line, with this gift guide installment focusing on the categories corresponding to the letters M, N, O, P, and Q.
Below, you'll find a see of sparkling and shimmering goodies in the M is for Metallics category, a parade's worth of bright bits in the N if for Neons portion, and an illusion-casting group of gifts in the O is for Op Art section, then you'll mingle with the dotted denizens in the P is for Polka Dots category and geek out with the eccentric sorts in the Q is for Quirky section. Get ready for more alphabet-themed amusement!
M IS FOR METALLICS
Love ADAM Long-Sleeve Sequin Wrap V-Neck Dress, $129.99. Available at HSN.com
The lights in your Christmas tree won't be the only thing twinkling this year! This satin-lined, long-sleeved, below-the-knee, V-neck dress — part of designer Adam Lippes' apparel line for HSN, Love Adam — features satin accents at the cuffs and a wrap-around sash to cinch the waist.
Lia Sophia Arrow Necklace with Black Diamond Crystals in Matte Gold, $450. Visit LiaSophia.com to find an adviser in your area.
Nylon editor Dani Stahl designed this statement-making necklace for her Lia Sophia Boudika collection. The choker-style piece features sculptural, arrow-shaped pieces linked together, with half of each arrow encrusted with black diamonds and the other half left stone-free, with matte gold alone on that surface.
Armani Eyes To Kill Intense Silk Eyeshadow in 5 and 16, $32 each. Available at Nordstrom.com
Beloved by makeup lovers with moxie everywhere, Armani's Eyes To Kill Intense Silk Eyeshadows come in small round pots and feature a mousse-like, fluffy, lighter-than-cream consistency, and they glide onto the skin with ease. On lids, the shadows have the shimmer we associate with powder and the pigment concentration we associate with cream colors. Plus, thanks to Armani's Color-Fil technology, a bi-polymer that cushions the skin on the lids, the eyeshadow colors look smooth and clump-free. Each shade features a base color and a secondary pigment that yields a multi-dimensional, shimmering, nuanced effect. If you're seeking a gilded look, snatch up the 5 and 16 shades — the former is an Etruscan gold-meets-bronze color with gold shimmer, while the latter is a platinum shade with silver glitter. Check out swatches of these two shades here.
Toywatch Metallic Indigo Watch, $195; Toywatch Metallic Violet Chrono Watch, $225; and Toywatch Metallic Green Watch, $195 . Available at ToywatchUSA.com
Having mastered the art of making plastic resemble ceramic, Toywatch has now ventured into new territory with the release of its first-ever watch made entirely out of metal. This aluminum watch is available in 15 colors (like the Indigo, Violet and Green pictured here) an comes with a chronograph dial or a time only dial (as with those pictured above). If you want to keep it simple, opt for a time only dial with dot markers or pick up one with crystal markers for an added bling factor.
Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Whipped Perfume, $72. Available at NeimanMarcus.com and Bloomingdales.com
If you're a fan of Cashmere Mist, then you already know that part of the fragrance's charm is its sensuality, how it envelops the skin like a cozy sweater, how the amber and woody notes evoke a sense of warmth and comfort while the light jasmine and lily of the valley notes add a touch of powdery femininity. The new Cashmere Mist Whipped Perfume builds upon this sensation, working up the cozy tactile sensibility of this acclaimed fragrance by allowing you to gently massage the scented, frothy, foamy lotion onto the skin, focusing on pulse points.
Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Cool Party Eye Palette, $45. Available at BobbiBrownCosmetics.com
There's an Ice Queen-worthy sophistication to the frosty blue, gray, and silver shades in Bobbi Brown's Cool Party Eye Palette. The holiday palette features six shades: White Eye Shadow, the type of velvety white you associate with cloud formations; Iced Blue Metallic Eye Shadow, a pale, silver-tinged, glacial blue; Rockstar Metallic Eye Shadow, a shimmering, lavender-ish steel shade; Sterling Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, an aluminum-ish metallic gray; Gunmetal Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, a near-black metallic shade with a soft, wispy quality; and Onyx Eye Shadow, an asphalt black with a hint of gold and silver shimmer. These swatches will help you become better acquainted with these must-have colors.
Cubannie Links Candela Earrings in Gold, $62. Available at CubannieLinks.com
If you tuned into Season 805 (well, fine, it was actually Season 9) of Project Runway, then you might remember the oversize, braided leather hoop earrings that finalist Kimberly Goldson chose when accessorizing the ensembles in her debut collection (and which she herself rocked while taking her final bow during New York Fashion Week). Measuring 3" in length and 3" in width (including ear hooks), these Candela earrings are, as their name implies, pure fire. To make them, Brooklyn-based Cuban designer Annie Basulto twisted together two thick strands of 100% braided genuine leather. You can pick between a solid gold or silver or opt for a two-toned design like the one pictured above.
Sonia Kashuk Holiday 6-Piece Brush Set, $22.99. Available at Target.com
Would you ever thing this brush set cost less than $25? We're stunned! Leave it to makeup guru Sonia Kashuk to release yet another must-have brush kit as part of her ongoing collaboration with Target. Housed in a glittering, rectangular, box-shaped silver clutch with shimmering, glitter-packed fibers and a pillbox closure, this set includes six of Kashuk's top-notch makeup brushes: a Powder/Blush Brush, Pointed Foundation Brush, Small Duo Fibre Brush, Eyeshadow Brush, Angled Contour Crease Brush, and Pointed Eye Liner Brush — all featuring sparkly handles and silver-toned metal accents.
Balenciaga L'Essence Candle, $65. Available at NeimanMarcus.com
From Tom Ford Beauty's Violet Blonde to Balenciaga's L'Essence, violet stands at the forefront of some of this winter's most intriguing scents. Though many florists and gardeners view wild violets as unwanted weeds, Balenciaga actually relishes their tarnished reputation, their almost illicit quality, taking the opportunity to reintroduce these blooms as coveted fragrance notes, worthy of inclusion in the most precious of aromatic elixirs. L'Essence, then, revolves around violet as an intense bloom found in the wilderness, dewy, mossy, and reminiscent of mysterious woodlands. Leather and wood notes complete the effect. Housed in a silver-toned jar with a matching lid, the Balenciaga L'Essence Candle incorporates stronger moss notes than the eau de parfum, allowing your home to be transformed into a virtual forest thanks to the lush aroma diffused into the air.
Nissa Jewelry Calumet Stoned Earrings, $104. Available at NissaJewelry.com
Part Blade Runner, part The Scorpion King, and part Cleopatra, these 3"-long earrings feature triangle shapes dangling beneath round discs with iridescent, color-changing stones as their centers. Made by hand in New York using recycled metal and iris-colored crystals, these earrings not only juxtapose geometric shapes but also textures, with half of each disc and triangle having a smooth metallic surface and the other half being fully granulated.
Essie Luxeffects Collection Nail Lacquers, $8 each. Available at salons and beauty destinations nationwide.
Finally, a reprieve from all the creamy nude colors and chocolate-y browns we've been seeing this season! Essie's Luxeffects Collection is about as shy and understated as a samba dancer in Rio de Janeiro's carnival — and we love it! Each lacquer can be applied to clean and dry nails or, for a truly baroque effect, layered atop another color. Shades include: As Gold As It Gets, a near-clear nectar gold hue with gilded lamé sparkles; Shine of the Times, a near-translucent white with tiny pearl particles that reflect sunset orange, coral pink, light green, and blue tones, yielding a sparkly mother-of-pearl effect (check out the effect in this photo); Pure Perfection, an icing-like, translucent, iridescent white with silver shimmer; A Cut Above, a pink-tinged clear color saturated with metallic pink pearls and sequined bits of varying sizes (here's how it looks on nails); and Set in Stones, the silver counterpart to A Cut Above, with chunky mirrored silver flakes (which create an Icecapades-worthy effect, as shown here).
Anya Hindmarch Mini Huxley Woven Leather Tote, $1595. Available at Net-a-Porter.com
Silver woven leather strips and a near-blinding shine allow this tote to skate into high glamour territory. Featuring two top handles, a detachable taupe-and-silver grosgrain shoulder strap, and a tasseled top zipper, this Anya Hindmarch tote proves silver doesn't have to mean coming in second.
Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey Gold Absolute Limited Edition Eau de Parfum, $85. Available at NeimanMarcus.com
Since incense, amber, and wood scents are all associated with Christmas, there was no better time for Issey Miyake to release its L'Eau d'Issey Gold Absolute, a robust, woody scent that leaves behind a warm amber scent as it settles on the skin. The limited-edition fragrance features watery osmanthus and lotus top notes, lily and jasmine middle notes, and white cedar and amber base notes. Despite the floral notes, however, amber reigns supreme in this fragrance composition, making this an ideal gift for women who love oriental floral perfumes.
Sachin + Babi Rorschach Emblem Cuff, $235. Available at BergdorfGoodman.com
It's hard to believe that looking at a stack of inkblots can yield a proper personality assessment or psychological evaluation, but at least the Rorschach technique can inspire amazing works of art, such as this intriguing cuff from Sachin + Babi. Measuring 6 1/4" in length, this hammered cuff is made of pewter with an electro-plated 14K yellow gold coating. The amorphous cut-outs, meanwhile, recall the vague blobs seen in standard Rorschach tests, begging the question: what do you see when you look at this piece?
MAC Cosmetics Dazzlesphere! Mini Nail Lacquer Ornament x4, $25.50, and MAC Cosmetics Dazzlesphere! Neutral Ornament x4, $32.50. Available at MACcosmetics.com
Inspired by glitter and ice, MAC's Holiday 2011 collection features enough glitter, silver metal, and icy motifs to make Johnny Weir beam with pride. Among the most clever offerings are bubble-shaped, ornament-inspired spheres containing mini nail lacquers, loose pigments, or lip glosses. The contents of each ornament are visible through the clear plastic top half of the sphere, which rests upon a silver-toned base and which can be removed to safely open and close your space-aged makeup set.
The Dazzlesphere Petite Nail Lacquer Ornament, pictured at top, will woo manicure addicts with the versatile shades Style Tip, a pink-ish nude; Much Adored, a sheer, whitened pink with pearly shimmer; and Mistletoe, a light gold color with an even sheen. The MAC Dazzlesphere Neutral Ornament, meanwhile, is just as versatile, with various nude and wine-tinged lip gloss colors, some sheer and creamy and others with a fun infusion of sparkle. The Dazzlesphere Neutral Ornament features two Cremesheen Glass shades (Boy Bait, a light peachy nude, and Over Indulgence, a mid-tone, coral-tinged flesh shade) and two Dazzleglass shades (Bare Necessity, a brandy shade with plenty of sparkle, and Get Rich Quick, a date-like brownish red with tons of shimmer). Click here for swatches of all four shades!
Baby Phat Women's Crop Sequin Jacket, $69, and Sequin Mini Skirt, $54. Available at BabyPhat.com
Sparkle brighter than a Supreme with these chic pieces from Baby Phat. The amethyst purple skirt measures 14" in length, so you can show off those toned stems and the hemline is adorned with a lace detail for added sophistication. The cropped sequin jacket, meanwhile, features a modern, collarless, open front silhouette, with 3/4 length sleeves adding a youthful and urban vibe.
Ariel Gordon Jewelry Silk Woven Friendship Bracelet, $115. Available at ArielGordonJewelry.com
Inspired by the friendship bracelets many of us braided with colored threads as children, jewelry designer Ariel Gordon created her own take on the timeless tokens of appreciation. Each gold-fill twisted curb chain bracelet features two strands of 100% silk woven together (as with the gray and blue shown above) and looped through each link for a very adult, fashion-forward aesthetic that still retains the playfulness of the schoolyard original.
Lauren Merkin for John Frieda Beige/Gold Python Metal Clutch With John Frieda Volume Anytime Volume Refresher, $295. Available at LaurenMerkin.com
Two titans joined forces this holiday season: John Frieda, tamer of frizz, root lifting expert, and color-retention guru; and Lauren Merkin, handbag designer and lover of luxurious leather, python, and croc skins. The result was two limited-edition sets consisting of a Lauren Merkin clutch and an essential John Frieda styling product that can fit nicely into the handbag of choice. We're particularly fond of this metallic clutch, which has a pouch-like shape, understated rouching, a nude leather backdrop embossed with a gold snakeskin print, and features a hidden closure along the built-in tonal frame. Measuring 8.5" in width and 5" in height, the clutch is perfect for hosing the John Frieda Luxurious Volume Anytime Volume Refresher (included in your purchase), so that you can spritz your hair whenever your 'do starts going a bit flat.
Cutipol Rondo Gold Cutlery 5-Piece Set, $85. Available at ShopHorne.com
Just because you weren't born with a silver spoon in your mouth that doesn't mean you have to settle for rinky dink cutlery. Instead, you can give your dinner table the Midas touch with this gold-plated stainless steel cutlery set, made in Portugal. The dishwasher-safe set includes a dinner fork, dinner knife, tablespoon, dessert fork and dessert spoon.
Gio Diev Odessa Heels, $875. Available at GioDiev.com
A convergence of aesthetic influences leads to stylish harmony in this heaven-sent metallic pump. There's an irresistible fluidity to the mirrored, soft gold leather uppers of this pump, while the conical, silver blade heel adds a modern, architectural vibe, and the black satin bow accent along the ankle strap and heel collar infuses some romanticism into the design.
Kara Ross Prunella in Confetti Glitter, $650. Available at KaraRossNY.com
Like an explosion of multi-colored glitter, this envelope-shaped clutch allows you to get the party started anywhere you go. A square pyramid hematite stud inside a gold hardware frame is positioned at the center of the clutch for added polish.
Deborah Lippmann Three Times A Lady 3-Piece Nail Lacquer Set, $34.50. Available at HSN.com
Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann is always spearheading some of the zaniest, most exciting, glamorous lacquer color trends and nail designs (just read through some of our backstage interview at the Costello Tagliapietra SS12 show for an idea). Though she feeds us nail candy all year long, her holiday lacquers are always among our faves (as with last year's All That Jazz trio). This year, Lippmann amassed a trio of extra cheerful, disco-flavored colors with large metallic flecks, small glitter particles, and demure metallic finishes. The Three Times A Lady Set, then, incorporates the: Shake Your Groove Thing lacquer, which has a clear base and large gold sequined glitter particles; Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?, a deep red impregnated with glitter; and I Love The Nightlife, which has a clear base and chunky flecks of graphite-colored glitter for a gunmetal-like effect. Who said disco died?
Mark Disco Domes Ring, $24. Available at MeetMark.com
You don't have to shell out $100 or $200 to buy one of those coveted, open-ended floating rings seen on the hands of divas like Rihanna. These adjustable hematite rings cost less than $25 and they yield just as cool and effect with their glass pavé rhinestone-studded dome tips. Pick between the hematite with golden rhinestones or the hematite with clear rhinestones and get ready to rock around the Christmas tree.
Giorgio Armani Madreperla Palette, $59.50. Available at Nordstrom.com
Your skin will look like it's basking in a candlelit glow with this limited-edition holiday compact from Giorgio Armani Beauty. The Harmony 1 palette includes a pearly sandy beige, a pale and antique-looking gold with yellow gold sparkle, and a light, greenish gold hue that resembles the look of tarnished gold metal (check out swatches of the three luminous shades here). The multi-purpose shades can be used on the face, swept along cheekbones or brushed onto lids, so that you can give any part of your face the gold standard.
Pureology Super Smooth Petite Luxuries Set, $23. Visit Pureology.com to find a Pureology salon near you.
As if its contents weren't enough of a selling point, this Pureology Holiday Set comes in a pearly white clutch with a zip-top closure, wristlet strap, and tonal, faceted, diamond-shaped studs all along its front and back surfaces. This particular set includes a 2 oz. bottle of the SuperSmooth Shampoo and a 2 oz. bottle of the SuperSmooth HairCondition, both essential when creating frizz-free, old Hollywood-inspired wavy 'dos, as well as a 2.1 oz. bottle of the ColourStylist Strengthening Control Zero Dulling Hairspray to give any look hold while maintaining its caressability factor.
Madstone Triple Drop Earrings, $8,500. Available at the Diana Heimann Jewelry Salon in the Ritz Carlton Hotel in White Plains, NY. Call 914.467.5880 for more information or visit MadStoneDesign.com
The bubble effect on this triple drop earrings will instantly conjure up champagne and caviar visions and maybe even inspire you to pop open a bottle of Dom. These handmade Madstone sparklers feature three octagonal shapes lined in yellow gold and filled with faceted, textured, lemon quartz, with hinged bars encrusted with diamonds connecting the shapes together and adorning the triangular gold plates at the top of the earrings.
Nate Berkus Set of 2 Quilted Candle Cuffs in Silver, $29.95, and Nate Berkus Set of 2 Metal Candle Cuffs, $29.95. Available at HSN.com
Give standard pillar candles a glam twist with these candle cuff sets, which come in black velvet pouches with drawstring closures packed inside black gift boxes. Part of the Nate Berkus for HSN collection, these candle sets allow you to dress up your mantelpiece or tabletop — all you have to do is slip a candle through their center and you're good to go! If you want to keep it simple, opt for the quilted candle cuff, which measures 2" in height and 3 1/4" in diameter and features straight edges and all-over pyramid-shaped studs. For a stronger style statement, pick up the metal candle cuffs pictured second from top, which measure 3" in height and 3 1/4" in diameter and feature branch-like strips that extend vertically, forming a jagged top edge.
Rachel Zoe Luxe Ombre Sequin Bag, $79.56. Available at QVC.com
Break the dawn with one of these sequined clutches from stylist, reality TV star, and designer Rachel Zoe. Each bag measures 13" in width and 7" in height and features a sequin-covered exterior with a star burst-like motif and gradated colors for an ombré effect. A 20"-long chain strap, meanwhile, allows you to wear the purse as a shoulder bag or cross-body.
Avon So Luminous Dazzle Moisture Gel, $10; Avon So Luminous Dazzle Bath Nectar, $10; Avon So Luminous Dazzle Body Mist, $12; Avon So Luminous Dazzle Hair Mist, $12. Available at Avon.com
Each of the products in the Avon So Luminous Dazzle collection allow you to coat your hair or skin with golden sparkle. We're particularly fond of the Dazzle Hair Mist, which gives the appearance of Rapunzel-like tresses.
Blissliving Home Sasha Pillow, $33. Available at MyHabit.com
Measuring 12" x 16", this black sequined pillow has a sleek modern look and features a down feather filling for maximum comfort.
Annick Goutal Eau d'Hadrien Holiday Set, $120. Available at SaksFifthAvenue.com
This Tuscany-inspired citrus scent celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2011, and it's as exciting now as it was in '81, with its mixture of Sicilian lemon, citron, grapefruit, green mandarin, cypress, and ylang-ylang notes. Packed in a golden box with a bow design, the Annick Goutal Eau d'Hadrien Holiday Set includes both the classic fragrance and a scented body lotion.
MAC Cosmetics Make It Perfect Brush Kit Essentials, $49.50. Available at MACcosmetics.com
Who isn't in the market for some quality makeup brushes? This holiday kit, packaged in a clear, zip-top, snow globe-inspired bag with a round silver patch sewn atop the center of the front panel and a clear cylindrical tab with silvery glitter dangling from the zipper, features some of MAC's most popular brush offerings: the 129 SE, 190 SE, 275 SE, 266 SE and 226 SE. In keeping with the glitter and ice theme, the five brushes feature clear handles with silver glitter inside the tubular shapes.
Carolee Lux Modern Meets Vintage Stretch Bracelet, $95. Available at Carolee.com
Rival the luster of the golden ball ornaments on your Christmas tree with this multi-row stretch bracelet, which features hand-polished, gold simulated pearls and an antique-looking hematite brooch detail with three floral accents bearing clear and black crystal stones.
Jouer Liquid Shimmer Eyeliner, $22. Available at JouerCosmetics.com
Enriched with vitamins A and E, as well as hydrating and soothing green and white tea extracts, Jouer's new Liquid Shimmer Eyeliners were formulated with a water base so that they take a bit longer to dry than traditional liquid liners, granting you more time to perfect the desired look. Once dry, the liners prove to have all-day longevity, remaining lustrous and richly pigmented. Three shimmering shades are available: Fox, a navy charcoal; Sable a chocolate-y aubergine (check out a swatch); and Mink, a rich taupe.
eos Holiday Lip Balm Collection, $8.99. Available at Walgreens, Ulta stores, and Drugstore.com
Sure, the eos Lip Balms themselves aren't metallic but, for this special holiday gift set, the pod-shaped, organic lip conditioners are packaged in a silver-toned box with gray circles dancing haphazardly atop the shiny silver backdrop. The eos Holiday Lip Balm Collection includes the classic Sweet Mint lip balm flavor as well as the Strawberry Sorbet and Passion Fruit flavors introduced earlier this summer (which we raved about in this post, back in July). All three balms are formulated with vitamin E, shea butter, and jojoba oil, so as to soften, hydrate, and protect your pucker right in time for mistletoe season.
Elva Fields Sequin Earrings, $30. Available at ElvaFields.com
These 1.25"-long vintage earrings make lobes sparkle thanks to the gold glitter embedded inside the clear lucite oval shapes dangling from sterling silver wires.
MAC Cosmetics Iced Delights Nail & Lip Bag in Pure Drama, $36. Available at MACcosmetics.com
Yet another offering from MAC's Holiday 2011 collection, this gift set includes a lipstick, mini nail lacquer, and lipglass packaged in a round, see-through, clear vinyl clutch with a silver-colored patch sewn atop its center, creating a space-aged effect. Available in several color schemes (Wintercool for peachy pinks, Sultry for pink nudes, Rocking for holiday reds, and Pure Drama for vampy, plum-y red shades), we're particularly smitten with the Pure Drama set, which includes the Vintage Vamp nail lacquer; the Hang Up Lipstick, creamy raspberry red; and the Frozen Lamé Lipglass, which has a white base and tons of glitter sparkle, making it ideal for layering atop seasonal plum and red lip colors. Here are swatches of the Hang Up Lipstick and Frozen Lamé Lipglass for your reference!
Kim Kardashian Gold Eau de Parfum, $65. Available at Store.KKFragrance.com
Luxury was the ultimate feeling Kim Kardashian sought to convey with her second fragrance release: Kim Kardashian Gold. Packaged in a black bottle with gold metal details, the scent features bergamot, grapefruit and pink pepper top notes for an invigorating burst of citrus made unique through the spicy hint of pepper, all leading to a floral heart consisting of jasmine, rose and violet. These citrus and floral notes are then tempered by a mixture of patchouli, sandalwood, amber and creamy benzoin base notes for a sultry, warm, musky end feeling.
Alexis Bittar Liquid Gold Cuff, $260. Available at IntermixOnline.com
Though she's best known for her lucite earrings and bangles, Alexis Bittar is no one-trick pony -- she can manipulate any material to make it look more exciting than ever imagined. Case in point: this hammered gold metal bracelet, which features soft ripples that give the piece a sense of movement and fluidity.
Michael Eau de Parfum by Michael Kors, $75 for 1.7 oz. and $95 for 3.4 oz. Available at MichaelKors.com and Sephora.com
Like a little black dress, this classic scent never goes out of style. Michael Kors hit gold when he developed this now iconic scent, aptly packaged in a camel-colored suede inner box with a shiny, silver-toned sleeve bearing the fragrance name and the Michael Kors logo. The aromatic elixir itself makes you feel like the ultimate jet-setter, with notes that allude to Morocco, St. Tropez, New York, and all other epicenters of luxury. Michael by Michael Kors, then, features dewy freesia and Moroccan incense top notes; tuberose, blue orris, white wings peony, and lily middle notes; and cashmere woods, musk, and vetiver base notes.
N IS FOR NEON
ASOS Collection Limited Edition Neon Triangle Drop Earrings, $27.27. Available at US.ASOS.com
Revisit the days of Bananarama records and Saved By The Bell episodes with these triangle-shaped, hot pink and lime green earrings.
Diane Von Furstenberg Lytton Neon Clutch, $295. Available at Bloomingdales.com
Dainty in size but major in gumption, this honeysuckle pink leather Diane Von Furstenberg clutch measures 6" in width and 3/12" in height, and it features a detachable 21"-long chain strap and a top snap closure with a twig embellishment.
Swarovski Crystallized Tealight Holder in Fuchsia and Simply Lemon, $32 each. Available at Swarovski-Crystallized.com
Infuse some technicolor fun to any room with these square neon tealight candle holders, which feature Swarovski Elements stone accents for added dazzle.
Cosabella for Rebecca Taylor Cutie Thong 3-Pair Gift Box, $60. Available at RebeccaTaylor.com
Make disrobing all the more fun with these low-rise, stretch lace thongs, created by Cosabella for Rebecca Taylor. Each holiday gift set features an orange, fuchsia, and lime-y yellow thong.
Remington Pretty Fierce Cheetah Print Hair Dryer, $21.95. Available at RemingtonProducts.com
Orange may be associated with warnings of oncoming danger, but there's nothing to be afraid of when it comes to Remington's Pretty Fierce Cheetah Print Hair Dryer, which boasts 1875 watts of power, 3 heat settings, and 2 speed settings, allowing you to control your styling experience without overwhelming you with complicated buttons, dials, and flashing lights.And let's face it: the neon orange cheetah print is a major selling point!
Tina Frey Cream & Sugar Set in Green, $82. Available at ShopHorne.com
These sturdy resin jars, measuring 3.5" in height, have simple, straight-forward silhouettes and yet their ability to capture and reflect the light makes them feel modern and hip.
Nissa Jewelry Neon Triangle Ring, $35. Available at NissaJewelry.com
Handmade using recycled metals, these rings feature rectangular neon stones surrounded by clear round stones and positioned atop triangle-shaped, vintage-looking metal slithers with center grooves.
Reiss Lydia Top, $185. Available at ReissOnline.com
Perk up any wardrobe with this loose-fitting, layered silk blouse, which features flowy sleves with soft, undulating edges.
Tarina Tarantino Acid Cameo Multi-Colored Waterfall Necklace, $195. Available at Endless.com
Magenta-haired jewelry designer Tarina Tarantino gives Victorian tokens a zany twist by giving carved cameo pendants neon pink, blue, and orange backdrops, bedazzling them with shimmering crystals, and threading together Candy Land-worthy, translucent neon beads, carved rosette style beads, and leaf and bow charms.
Mighty Fine Jem Holograms Close-Up Tee in Fuchsia, $25, and Mighty Fine The Misfits Tee in Grape Soda, $25. Available at WeLoveFine.com
Before Nicki Minaj, there was one pink-haired diva for whom the world was a stage: Jem. Celebrate the '80s cartoon icon with these funky tees from Mighty Fine, available in fun colors like grape purple and fuchsia.
Ettika Neon Sweet Sixteen Stack, $150. Available at Ettika.com
Add some color to your wrist with six braided Ettika bracelets, each featuring silver-toned charms like smiley faces or starfish, and some embellished with round cubic zirconia stones or threaded rhinestone chains.
Keel's Simple Diary Volume Two, $15 each. Available at Taschen.com
Keeping a diary requires discipline, focus, and inspiration. Luckily, Keel's Simple Diary Volume Two makes the self-reflection process easier and less time-consuming. Rather than daunting blank pages, this diary allots one page to each day of the year and said page is filled with multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank sentences, humorous quotes, quirky illustrations, topical questions, word association exercises, and other easy prompts that allow you to respond quickly in whatever manner best corresponds with your mood or disposition on that very day. Plus, each lightweight journal comes in fun colors like sunshine yellow and bright fuchsia and features a hidden pocket along the inside of the back flap for mementos, receipts, notes, photos, and other treasures.
TKEES Zincs Sandals in Neon Orange and Neon Green, $48 each. Available at TKEES.com
These streamlined thong sandals are just as comfortable as traditional flip-flops but way classier thanks to their unobtrusive design, plus they come in a plethora of colors including an entire array of vivacious neon shades.
O IS FOR OP ART
Versace Black and White Pencil Skirt, $740. Available at Stylebop.com
In this slim-fitting pencil skirt, palm tree leaves seem to burst forward out of a psychedelic universe filled with slanted black-and-white lines.
Sang A "Hold Me" Flash Clutch. Visit SangA.com for information.
Shaped like a parallelogram, this cream-colored, flap-top, semi-gloss leather clutch features chaotic geometric shapes with striped interiors as envisioned by artist Daren Newman.
Trina Turk Burmese Vine Art Pillow, $142.40. Available at TrinaTurk.com
Palm Beach style expert Trina Turk lends her signature nostalgic aesthetic to this decorative, down-filled, embroidered pillow, which measures 20" in width and 20" in height.
Cynthia Rowley Prism Skirt, $259. Available at CynthiaRowley.com
This tiered taffeta skirt features concentric diamond shapes that repeat in a kaleidoscope-like manner, creating a dizzying optical illusion.
Melissa Psychedelic Print Flat Ballerina Pump with Peep Toe, $69.08. Available at ASOS.com
Using black and white stripes to shake up viewer's spatial orientation has always been an important technique in the Op Art movement. These slip-on shoes build on said traition with a graphic monochrome print that yields a maze-like effect.
Verner Panton Fun 11 Pendant Lamp, $1950. Available at DWR.com
Unlike your typical chandelier lamp, this Mod-flavored piece features strands of pearly discs through which light shines, creating a light glowing effect.
P IS FOR POLKA DOTS
Adidas Originals Short Padded Jacket, $110. Available at ShopAdidas.com
This sporty, polka dot print, quilted jacket is perfectly on trend and yet it's sure to move effortlessly from season to season thanks to the simplicity of the pattern and the timelessness of the black-and-white color scheme. Aside from the zippered front, the jacket features ribbing along the cuffs and hemline, a high collar for greater protection from wintry gusts, and a detachable hood.
Beverly Feldman Davina Polka Dot Pumps, $149. Available at LastCall.com
These cocktail party-ready pumps feature see-through polka dot lace uppers,a 4 1/2" heel, a V-shaped peep toe, and an elaborate looped bow made of a black grosgrain ribbon with gilded edges positioned directly atop the peep toe opening.
Comme Des Garçons Polka Dot Print Leather Pouch, $185. Available at Net-a-Porter.com
Stash away credit cards, loose change, and other small tokens in this polka dot print leather pouch, which measured 9" in width and 6" in height.
Marc Jacobs Black/Blue Polka Dot Bangle, $65. Available at Stylebop.com
For Fall/Winter 2011, Marc Jacobs envisioned a Polka Dot Paradise, and this simple resin bangle captures the playful vibe of his entire collection, not to mention the legions of designers who followed in his footsteps to make this a season full of whimsical dotted prints.
Brahmin Bryn Luna Polka Dots Clutch Bag, $255. Available at Brahmin.com
Measuring 11" in width and 6" in height, this black croc clutch features a polka dot pattern on its hair calf top flap, a removable black shoulder strap, and an embossed strip at the center of the top flap that conceals a magnetic closure.
HUE Polka Dot Knee Socks, $7. Visit Hue.com to find a retailer near you.
These knee-high socks will make any girl add a little bounce to her step. Made of 64% cotton, 33% nylon and 3% spandex, the knee-high socks are black with tiny gray dots along the foot area and larger, quarter-sized polka dots in a dark eggplant an a perky fuchsia shade along the upper area, right below the knee.
Converse x Marimekko All-Star Marimekko and PJ Marimekko Sneakers, $90 each. Available at Converse.com
The alliance between textile mammoth Marimekko and footwear company Converse continues going strong thanks to the bold prints adorning the classic All-Star and PJ sneaker silhouettes. Polka dot patterns like those pictured above will surely prove to be crowd pleasers this season given the current obsession with all things spotted and dotted.
Kate Spade New York Neprene iPad Sleeve, $50. Available at Nordstrom.com
Keep your iPad safe an snug in this cushioned neoprene sleeve, featuring amorphous white dots against a black backdrop and livened up by a stitched kiwi green leather logo patch and a matching green leather zipper pull tab.
Belle Étoile Bow Grande Bracelet, $695. Visit BelleEtoileJewelry.com for store locations.
Rather than wrapping your gifts with ribbons and bows, why not make bows the actual presents? These flirtatious pieces from Belle Etoile's Bow Grande Collection channel Minnie Mouse's penchant for polka dot bows while elevating the theme to a more sophisticated echelon. Made of Italian resin embedded with cubic zirconias set in a 925 sterling silver band with rhodium plating, both the adjustable cuff and ring make us want to bow down in awe.
Boden eBook Case for Kindle, $28. Available at BodenUSA.com
eReaders may be staples of modern existence, but that doesn't mean we should stop looking to the past for inspiration. Give your Kindle gadget a retro feel with this spotted portfolio-style cover.
Q IS FOR QUIRKY
X-Large LEGO Storage Brick, $39.99. Available at ContainerStore.com
Cleaning up your kid's room (or your very own messes) will seem a bit more fun with these storage boxes, shaped to resemble oversize Lego pieces.
Knock Knock Social Media Citation Notepad, $4.95. Available at KnockKnockBiz.com
Ever wish you could put someone in social media detention? Maybe they flood your Twitter timeline with TV show spoilers while you were busy at work, DVR'ing the program for future viewing. Maybe you had to suffer through the indignity of being tagged in Facebook photos where you looked drunken, foolish, chubby, or just homely. Perhaps you've rolled your eyes at someone's attempts to seem profound via philosophical quotes masking as status updates. If any of these experiences are applicable, then you'll chuckle over this notepad by Knock Knock, which allows you to issue "citations" to repeat offenders and check the box that best describes their infractions — whether it's "oversharing," "poking," "liking your own status," "sending unwanted virtual gifts," or any of the other grievances listed.
LUSH Christmas Tweets Gift Set, $29.95. Available at LUSHusa.com
Forget partridges in pear trees. This holiday season, it's all about the chirping (or, rather, tweeting) birdies depicted in the wrapping paper used to cover the LUSH Christmas Tweets Gift Set. Not only is this four-piece set down with social media mavens, it features some indulgent treats, starting with the Tiny Hands Hand Lotion, a palm-shaped bar cream that melts onto your own palms when rubbed together, softening and hydrating them with argan oil, while luring you with a creamy vanilla and marigold fragrance. A vanilla-scented Three Gold Rings Bubble Bar will entice you with its confection-like appearance — and, when you drop it in your tub, it will dissolve and leave behind frothy bubbles, releasing the myrrh and sweet orange oils and the soy milk powders in its core so that these natural ingredients will gently soften skin. A sphere-shaped Butterball Bath Bomb, meanwhile, features cocoa butter to hydrate, condition, and heal the skin, while an almond-scented, star-shaped Snowcake Soap will restore your skin to its optimum moisture levels thanks to the rose absolute in its formula, its mousse-like texture gently massaging into your skin. And, as a post-bath or post-shower treat, there's a jar of Creme Anglaise Body Lotion, a shea butter-enriched moisturizer that smells like a delicious patisserie thanks to the cinder toffee and vanilla notes.
Kenny Scharf for Jack Rogers Totes, $98 each. Available at JackRogersUSA.com
Pop art icon Kenny Scharf lent some of his psychedelic imagery to beachy footwear and accessories brand Jack Rogers, resulting in a cheeky co-branded collection of footwear and totes. These standard canvas totes make everyday foods like sprinkled, chocolate-frosted donuts and mustard-covered hot dogs the focus of attention, showcasing the humor and beauty in everyday objects in the tradition of Andy Warhol while adding a trippy, reality-busting component via off-the-wall backdrops.
Tipsy Elves Bucktooth Rudolph Sweater, $59.95. Available at TipsyElves.com
Sure, hipsters are trying to find the most hideous Christmas sweaters or Bill Huxtable-esque knits they can find as part of the new "ugly sweater" trend, but their "ironic" looks simply make us remember how terrible these apparel pieces were when they first hit the market. For a cheekier look, pick up an acrylic sweater from the brand Tipsy Elves, which creates pieces that deliberately poke fun at the ugly Christmas sweater designs of yore. What you get is everything from Rudolph with enormous buckteeth to a decapitated snowman. Hilarious!
Kontextür Duck Harry Multifunctional Silicone Duck, $28. Available at Kontextur.com
Ernie's Duckie is old news! Modern design company Kontextür gave the traditional bath time ducky greater purpose with these molded sculptures which can be used as doorstops, decorative sink accents or, when laid flat, can be used as toothpaste and brush holders (the round eye cut-out will perfectly ensconce the stem of your toothbrush, while the oval shaped cut-out along the body can fit any ordinary toothpaste tube)
Rara Avis by Iris Apfel "It's Dicey" Blue and Yellow Stretch Bracelet, $39.95. Available at HSN.com
Lovably eccentric jewelry designer Iris Apfel placed a winning wager on this game of fashion craps, designing a kitschy bracelet featuring dice-shaped blue and yellow beads strung together on a black stretch cord.
Picnic Time Piano Cutting Board, $44.95. Available at Overstock.com
Who said cutting boards have to be flat and boring? This bamboo cutting board is not only shaped like a piano (note the piano key details), but it props open to reveal an interior compartment housing one brushed stainless steel corkscrew and two stainless steel cheese cutters. Music to our ears!
Ms. & Mrs. Minimergency Good Luck Kit, $15. Available at MsandMrs.com
With this miniature emergency kit, you'll be ready for any wardrobe malfunction, beauty mishap, hair disaster, or minor injury. Each miniature patent leather pouch, measuring 3.5" x 2" x 2", features 16 problem solvers: a tiny hairspray tube, a nail polish remover pad inside a disposable wrapper, an emory board for quick nail touch-ups, clear nail polish, a sample of Blistex lip balm, two earring backs (always handy!), clear elastics, double-sided tapes (so there's no excuse for nip slips), a basic sewing kit, a packet of Advil, a stain removing towelette inside a silver wrapper, a breath refreshing spritzer, dental floss, a bandage, a deodorant towelette, and a tampon (for surprise visits form Aunt Flow). Not only is each Minimergency Kit a troubleshooter's salvation, but it comes in an adorable case with a good luck charm dangling from its zipper— be it a four-leaf clover, a horseshoe, a wishbone, or an evil eye medallion.
