SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Urban Outfitters Goes Down The Rabbit Hole

Are you in full-fledged Wonderland mode? Then you hopefully checked out Thursday's  "Alice in Wonderland"-themed piece, which features a wide array of apparel, jewelry pieces, and cosmetics inspired by the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat, the White Rabbit, and Alice herself. Still thirsting for more? Then you'll appreciate these great goodies, available at Urban Outfitters.

Let's start with a new version of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, the tale that inspired it all, this time featuring illustrations by one of my fave artists, Camille Rose Garcia. The Los Angeles-based Mexican illustrator, artist,a nd toy designer has an impressive body of work that often references fairy tales, but takes these cartoon-ish children characters and places them in sinister and at times apocalyptic settings in order to make profound statements about the dangers of capitalism, pollution, and nuclear proliferation, among other issues. The 16-paged hard cover book features Garcia's trademark creepy-but-fascinating doll-like characters, which work perfectly with the version of Wonderland imagined by director Tim Burton created, which has a dark, gothic, scary-but-beautiful allure. Check out the cover art and the interior illustration pictured above for a taste of the art in the book. As far as the text, it's actually the unabridged version of Carroll's original book.

Now, if you're looking for a little trinket for your home that has a Wonderland twist, check out the 11 oz. Wonderland tumbler glasses, which feature four John Tenniel illustrations  from the original book: "2 Playing Cards," "Alice & Cards," "Growing Alice," and "Unbirthday." Below, you'll find an image of the "Unbirthday" tumbler glass, which pays homage to the famous party thrown for the Queen of Hearts.

 

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland book (illustrated by Camille Rose Garcia), $16.99, and Wonderland Glasses, $5 each. Visit UrbanOutfitters.com.

"Workin' It! RuPaul's Guide to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Style" -- What A Drag!

If this is how RuPaul works it, then it's time for her to hang up her sequined dresses and her voluminous blond wigs. One would think RuPaul, of all people, would know how to make an entrance in any situation, but whatever flamboyance he emanates on stage does not translate to the written word. It's almost as if the RuPaul persona has been transformed into a "ladies who lunch" caricature, full of restraint and propriety. If RuPaul was trying to a avoid sounding like a cliché (the bitchy, rude drag queen), he succeeded, but in turn wound up coming off like Barbara Bush in drag. Soooo not ideal. 

The book includes very little autobiographical information, so don't expect to learn anything particularly revelatory (much less any gossip tidbits). There is, however, a wealth of fortune cookie-ready mantras about positive energy, the importance of making a good first impressions, and other philosophies that lack any real profoundness.

As far as style and beauty secrets, I can summarize it into less than 10 bullet points: RuPaul's diet consists mainly of oatmeal, grilled fish or chicken, and yogurt;  RuPaul swears by long, luscious lashes and so his makeup artist Mathu always curls the lashes, adds some mascara, and then carefully applies false lashes; he often shaves his eyebrows for stage performances, using makeup to create the desired look; he swears by colonics;  he uses lace-front wigs, preferably synthetic, which he has styled a day before his stage performance; to create a curvaceous silhouette, he uses foam rubber, trims it down to size, and wears it under support hose; and he recommends relying on the bevel stance (where your feet are positioned to create a "T", with the right foot as the stem and the left feet as the top of the "T" shape) to streamline your silhouette on stage. That about sums up the key points made. You tell me: are you satisfied? 'Cause I feel cheated!

So what's the book mainly about, you ask? Sadly, it's completely disjointed. At some points, RuPaul shares anecdotes, but always in a very hasty manner, without delving too deep into detail. At other points, he shares "insider" tips, but most people with even a rudimentary knowledge of fashion and beauty would be well-acquainted with these. Another problem: the reader never quite knows if RuPaul is attempting to give advice to everyday women or if he's trying to school up-and-coming drag queens, since he seems to alternate between the two without any real distinction. When you actually get down to it, the  book mainly includes image after image of RuPaul from various photo shoots and events. Now, the images are phenomenal — it's crazy how RuPaul manages to look sexier (and prettier) in drag than many women who were genetically designed to be, well, women. It speaks volumes about how much you can accomplish with careful makeup application and styling. But I know that, personally, I wouldn't spend my hard-earned cash on a book of RuPaul photos — no matter how photogenic a drag queen he may be.

My suggestion: skip it. Even if the intrigue factor is there, once you open up those pages, the disappointment will sink in. A book from a drag queen that lacks luster? That's just wrong.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide Part 3 -- Love Is All We Need

Don't say "down with love" this Valentine's Day -- flaunt that big heart of yours and make the day special and memorable for your significant other, as well as your closest friends and family. In uncertain times, there's nothing like the comfort and warmth of someone's love — and while there's a million ways to express that affection, sometimes it's nice to communicate the sentiment through a beautiful token.

Here, a few more ideas for you lovelies:

Kilian Collection Discovery Set, $140. Visit LuckyScent.com, as well as Bergdorf Goodman, select Saks Fifth Avenue stores, and Apothia.

Kilian Hennessy (yes, THAT Hennessy) has established a new budding family empire with his eponymous fragrance brand, which he launched in 2007. Kilian's intricately nuanced, elegant scents have earned him a dedicated following over the last three years and, now, those who aren't familiar with his work can be introduced to his fragrance catalog thanks to the new Kilian Collection Discovery Set. The boxed set features an atomizer pump and eight 0.25 oz. fragrances: Love, a marshmallow-inspired scent; Beyond Love, a romantic tuberose fragrance that ignites your passions; A Taste of Heaven, a feisty, absinthe verte fragrance; Liaisons Dangereuses, a floral oriental scent centered on Damascus Plum; Cruel Intentions, a mysterious, woody fragrance centered on the oud; and Back to Black, a gender-bending number with tons of sex appeal.

Tylie Malibu Runaway Stud Neon Pink Clutch. Visit NeimanMarcus.com

There's something almost innately funky and perky about a black and hot pink combination - it evokes a slightly punk-y girl power (which is probably why rock/pop stars like Avril Lavigne, Blondie, and Rihanna have all donned looks in this color scheme). Thanks to the six rows of black pyramid studs along the flap, this Tylie Malibu clutch has a playful, Gem-like quality.

Moet & Chandon Champagne Brut Rose Imperial, $50. Visit CrownWineAndSpirits.com

Toast in style with a bottle of Moet & Chandon Champagne Brut Rose Imperial, which features sour cherry and strawberry notes for a fruity but not overly sweet flavor.

Phyto Coveted Collection, $65. Visit Nordstrom.com

This gift set it like a shrine for all of us Phyto devotees, where we can sing the praises of the outstanding haircare brand as we indulge our tresses with some yummy products. The Coveted Collection set includes travel-sized samples of the following cult favorites: Phyto 7 Daily Hydrating Botanical Cream, a miracle product for us dry hair gals, since ingredients like rosemary leaf extract, sage leaf extract, pricot kernel oil, willow leaf extract, and calendula extract help to nourish, smooth, and soften your mane; Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm, which includes ferula, horseradish, sage and plant mucilage extracts to tame even the most persistent frizzies and leave your hair straight and sleek; Phytomist Instant Hydrating Conditioner, a moisturizer that packs a hefty punch; Phytovolume Actif Volumizing Spray, which will add lift and bounce to your tresses through its formulation of keratin amino acids; and Phytolisse Shine Serum, a lovely finishing product for when you're blowdrying and styling your hair. 

Servane Gaxotte Necklaces, $365 each. Available at Kisan Concept Store (125 Greene Street in NYC).

At first glance, these may look like fairy tale character-inspired figures you'd display in your home, but they're so much more than that — these dolls are actually way smaller than they appear in the photos above, and they're meant to be worn as necklaces. Crafted by Parisian jeweler Servane Gaxotte, these necklaces exude the exuberance and playfulness of childhood and the romanticism of the City of Lights. Plus, the doll necklaces are exquisitely outfitted, donning ballerina-esque tulle skirts and lace-up boots. The Kisan Concept Store in NYC has a nice selection of these extremely rare Servane Gaxotte pieces, so here's your chance to give someone a doll they won't ever have to part with!

De Vecchi Ere Cuoro Bowl, $248. Visit Yoox.com

This silver bowl centerpiece measures 5.5" in width, 5.1" in height, and 0.8" in depth. The most amazing aspect of the centerpiece is how it's sculpted to reflect light in an interesting and innovative manner.

Michael Kors Very Hollywood Luxury Set, $65. Visit Sephora.com

With its mandarin, gardenia and vetiver notes, Michael Kors' Very Hollywood fragrance channels the bountiful energy and vibrancy of a young Hollywood starlet. The gardenia notes add a hint of screen siren sexiness but, unlike other scents, this one feels way more youthful and coy. Plus, just in time for Valentine's Day, Michael Kors is debuting this Sephora exclusive, which includes a 1.7 oz. EDP and a 0.25 rollerball perfume with a cutesy rhinestone-studded MK charm.

Natobie Jewels RJB160, $295. Visit NatobieJewels.com

Coral is about to make a big splash this spring, and this ornate bracelet, with its interlocking gold circles and inset coral, red orange, and pink stone will keep you one step ahead of the rest.

 

Antoine + Manuel "Love Pink" Wall Stickers, $105. Visit Yoox.com

Put a little love in your house with these wall stickers by Antoine + Manuel, which have an artful quality thanks to the intriguing graphic prints featured in the heart shape. The best part? Applying them requires way less skill than any wallpapering effort!

NYC New York Color Lip Sliders Tinted Lip Balm $2.99 each. Available at mass food and drug retailers. Visit NewYorkColor.com to find a retailer.

These affordable lip balms provide just a hint of glossy color. Available in perky shades like Sugar Baby, a bright red, and Sugar Coated, a cotton candy pink, N.Y.C. New York Color's Lip Sliders are cleverly packaged so that you can just place your thumb on the case's top lid and slide it upwards to open. The balm itself has a slightly sticky consistency, but it's still quite a steal for the price point!

Emily Elizabeth Jewelry Twin Heart Earrings, $90. Visit EmilyElizabethJewelry.com

These earrings just make me want to start singing "Two of Hearts" (yes, I'm corny sometimes!). Each of these earrings features a pair of bulbous goldtone hearts of two different sizes dangling from a thin golden chain strand.

 

PUMA Women's "Vega" Red Dial Red Strap Watch, $45.99. Visit Overstock.com

This sporty number features a red rubber strap and case, and the oversize numbers make it easy to tell time even when you just steal a peek at your wristwatch.

New Balance Valentine's Day 460 Sneakers, $55. Visit FinishLine.com

For Valentine's Day, NB is releasing a limited-edition version of its 460 style in a white/red color scheme. The Valentine's Day 460 sneakers feature red stitching along the "N" logo, a red insole, a bold red stripe along the heel, and a heart symbol and the number "460" stitched on the tongue's label.

 

Steven Shein LOVE Text Ring, $21. Visit Karmaloop.com

Give hands some TLC with this wooden ring, which features the word "Love" in big block letters.

Not Soap Radio "The Stuff That Cupid Dips His Arrow In" Bubbles for Bath or Shower, $15. Visit NotSoapRadio.com

I admit: I have a bit of a dirty mind. And clearly, that's precisely what Not Soap Radio was counting on when it named this ginseng scented bubble bath "The Stuff That Cupid Dips His Arrows In." But let me be clear: this product's brilliance goes beyond the cheeky double entendre associated with the name. As if bubble baths weren't sexy enough, the ginseng scent functions as an aphrodisiac, engaging your carnal desires. When you take a sudsy bath with your special someone, let's just say there will be tons of dipping going on!

LUSH Be Mine, $24.95. Visit LUSHusa.com

Already wrapped nicely with a tattoo-inspired, rose print paper, LUSH's Be Mine gift set features a trio of sensual products to make your skin and lips smooth, soft, and kissable. The set includes the Flying Fox honey scented shower gel, the Honey Trap Lip Balm (which features a mix of white chocolate, honey, vanilla and sweet wild orange), and the Soft Couer Massage Bar, an emollient, heart-shaped bar that melts against the skin and moisturizes it with cocoa butter and honey. Yum!

Keds Champion "I Love Keds" White Canvas Sneakers, $40. Visit Keds.com

The basic Champion sneaker gets a makeover here, with doodles of daisies, marigolds, guitars, hearts, stars, and tiny skulls in red, yellow, and a minty white color. When you see these, you can't help but feel the urge to whip out your marker and add your own personal touch.

Soft Hugwear Bear With Pink Blanket, $24.95. Visit Walmart.com

This cuddle bug of a teddy bear is ready for some serious spooning — he's even got his own pink blanket and sleep mask to ensure he gets some nice shut-eye. Sweet dreams!

Wet 'N Wild MegaLast Lip Color, $2.99 each. Visit WNWbauty.com

These new Wet 'N Wild lip colors are ultra creamy and deliver rich pigment onto your lips — all without drying out your lips. I tried the Wine Room, Mauve Outta Here, and Red Velvet, and here's what the colors look like (as pictured from left to right):

Julia Failey "Little Rose" Rings, $85 for silver; $105 for sterling silver with 18k gold vermeil; and $105 for sterling silver with rose gold. Visit JuliaFailey.com

Each of these rings is made of reclaimed and deoxidized sterling silver and features a 1/4"-wide rose detail along the center. I love how the ring's band features intertwined stems with tiny thorn details, giving each piece a more primal, in-the-wilderness feel.

Calvin Klein Frame Clutch in Bronze, $118. Available at Macys.com

Every woman needs a clutch that's sleek, versatile, and simple enough to work for a number of occasions. This Calvin Klein Frame Clutch can work for anything from a romantic dinner date to a prestigious black-tie affair.

Ariel Gordon Love Knot Rings, $68 each. Visit ArielGordonJewelry.com

Made of a single metallic wire, each of these handcrafted rings is twisted to create a pretzel-like shape that symbolizes two hearts becoming inextricably intertwined.

Restoration Hardware Book of Memories, $48. Visit RestorationHardware.com

A great romantic getaway. A beautiful wedding. A child's first birthday. A graduation. These are the moments we want to capture forever and while we can't rewind time and relive these experiences, at least we can remember them and savor them by doing so. Restoration Hardware's Book of Memories allows you to celebrate these special moments by putting them on display inside a photo album that can be propped up like a book, with each page becoming a frame. The engravable book holds six photos.

 
Temple St Clair 18K Classic Round Earrings in Pink Tourmaline, $1200. Visit TempleStClair.com

Sometimes the most beautiful pieces of jewelry are also surprisingly simple. Take, for example, these Temple St Clair earrings, which feature pink tourmaline stones along the center of a grooved, golden sphere and a trio of diamond studs adorning the bottom for an unexpected dash of excitement.

Arcona Raspberry Resurfacing Peel, $68. Visit Arcona.com

This strawberry-colored formula features green tea, raspberry, grape seed extracts, and lycopene, all of which help to improve circulation, minimize uneven pigmentation, and improve the texture and clarity of your skin. All you have to do is apply it to clean skin, wait 8-10 mins., and then rinse with warm water. If you use it 1-2 times a week, you'll start seeing results within about a month.

Ghurka Wine Caddy, $195. Visit Ghurka.com

This leather caddy keeps wine bottles chilled for four to six hours — so, whether you're planning a picnic in the park or going to a local dinner party, your vino will stay at the perfect temperature. Plus, the leather caddy looks extra stylish with its cinch-like tie and gingham print lining.

Pacifica French Lilac Spray Perfume, $22. Visit PacificaPerfume.com

According to the "Language of Flowers," the lilac is symbol of early love — that stage when your heart races at the mere thought of your beloved and the sense of promise fills the air. This soft, powdery, feminine fragrance will capture all those charming, magical emotions.

New Balance Pleated Skirt, $39.99. Visit NBWebExpress.com

Shopping for a gym junkie? Then consider giving her this sporty pleated skirt, which is perfect for a game of tennis or a dash to that killer cycling class.

 

Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Sensual Sandalwood & Fig Body Mist, $15; Massage Oil, $16; Body Wash & Foaming Bath, $13; Body Lotion, $13; Roll-On, $9.50; Sugar Scrub, $16. Visit BathAndBodyWorks.com

This aromatherapy collection is designed to bring out your sensual side, with woody sandalwood and fig notes that are complemented by invigorating citrus notes. The body lotion is my absolute favorite since it really softens the skin and leaves just the slightest alluring scent.

 
Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, $29.99 per 750 ml bottle. Available wherever fine spirits -based beverages are sold. Visit DrinkGodiva.com for more information.

Forget milk chocolate — when it comes to chocolate, I'm a bit of an extremist, preferring premium dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate. This sweet, syrupy liqueur, then, is the ultimate treat with its white chocolate and Madagascar vanilla flavors.

Fruitz Watches, $225 each. Will be available at FruitzWatches.com, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

These sporty watches, with their oversize, sunburst-themed dials and their eye-catching rubber straps, are the newest addition to the Philip Stein watch collection. And, as you might have surmised from the collection's name, the color schemes are inspired by fruits, with styles like Watermelon (which features a green strap and red dial) and Raspberry (which features a deep purple-y pink strap and dial).

SkullCandy Lowrider "Pink Print" Headphones, $39.95. Visit Skullcandy.com

The bright, gleaming colors of these SkullCandy Lowrider headphones were inspired by the candy-painted Chevys Pimp C loved to rap about.

 

Mighty Fine Hello Kitty "Love Bug" T-Shirt, $24. Visit TheGiantPeach.com

As if I needed another reason to adore Hello Kitty! Now, the sassiest of all feline creatures is showing off her amorous side, donning a ladybug-like shell, along with a set of antenna topped off with red hearts. Talk about getting bitten by the love bug!

U by Ungaro Fever For Her Eau de Parfum Spray, $34. Visit Avon.com

This chypre floral fragrance features sweet berry and Chinese osmanthus top notes, a floral heart incorporating lychee,  honeysuckle and white rose notes, and a woody base with a hint of patchouli.

Avon Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick SPF 15, $8. Visit Avon.com

The new Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick is based on Avon's new chromapixel technology, which helps to magnify every single hue. Available in 10 shades, this lipstick is saturated with iridescent pearls for high-wattage shine. Here's a look at what the Charged Cherry looks like (isn't it brilliant?!):

Wrecords by Monkey Valentine's Day Bracelets. $15 each. Visit WrecordsbyMonkey.com

I've been a fan of Wrecords by Monkey's funky, urban accessories for a while now, but this may be my favorite collection to date. The bracelets and cuffs in this special collection are, like all Wrecords by Monkey designs, made of repurposed vinyl LPs and they feature bandanna-like prints in pink or red color schemes with a heart at the core of the patterns.

 

Clara Kasavina "Amore S" Heart shape Clutch, $430. Visit ClaraKasavina.com

This silver, heart-shaped bag is the perfect way to finish your date outfit, and it's currently 30% off as part of Clara Savina's Valentine's Day sample sale. Score!

Staub Red Heart Crocotte, $138.99. Visit CooksWarehouse.com

Make it a feast of love with this heart-shaped cast iron crocotte, which is ideal for stews, soups, and other hearty concoctions.

TOMS Red Canvas Classics, $44. Visit TOMSshoes.com

Whenever you buy a pair of TOMS shoes, the company donates a pair of shoes to a child in a developing country. So, basically, you'd be doubling your gifting efforts. That's what I call spreading the love!

Abracadabra, It's The Bra Book!

Happy Three Kings' Day! 

Today, I want to talk to you gals about a book that's pure genius: The Bra Book. I know Oprah and Tyra have both gone on massive tirades about how most women are wearing the wrong bra — but, until now, there was no book women could look to as a reference point. Jené Luciani's new release will school you on the ABCs of over-the-shoulder boulder holders, providing a brief history of bras, including an alphabetized and illustrated breakdown of bra style types (from balconette to demi bra, racerback, bandeau bra, and more), advising you on what bra to wear under what type of garment, and more.

The chapter on determining your bra size is particularly useful. You might think determining your bra size is as simple as pulling out a tape measure — but you'd be dead wrong. For example, the right way to determine your band size does involve measuring the circumference of your ribcage below your breasts, rounding up to an even number of inches, and then adding 2 inches to this figure. Now here's the interesting part:  the cup size for bras is determined in relation to the band size, so you may be able to go up a band size and down a cup size when in need. Luciani even advises you on how to properly put on your bra -- apparently, it' best to bend over as you slip into the undergarment. Who knew, right?

The right bra makes all the difference in the world, so I really do recommend you grab a copy of The Bra Book and check out all the tips.

The Bra Book: The Fashion Formula To Finding The Perfect Bra, $13.57. Pick it up at Amazon.com

Holiday Gift Guide Part 10 -- For the Fly Girl With A Bit of Edge

Two days 'til Christmas! Feeling the pressure? Well, chill back, clear your head and remember that there's always something you can buy for that tricky person on your list — it's just a matter of careful research. Throughout the holiday season, Sicka's been featuring gift round-ups themed after iconic female characters — from Joan Holloway to Penny Lane, Aeon Flux, Lily Van Der Woodsen, Elle Woods, Cher Horowitz, Satine, Liz Lemon, and Elvira Hancock.

For today's gift guide installment, I wanted to find the ultimate stylish urban girl: a sneakerhead with hip-hop swagger; a cool chick who is always up on the latest gear (like New New in ATL) and who combines streetwear with couture; a gal with an Aaliyah-esque edginess (may she rest in piece) and a Rihanna-like flair. Unfortunately, Hollywood has portrayed urban America really narrowly, and so I couldn't find a character that had all the right style attributes (not Nina from Love Jones, Sydney from Brown Sugar, Justice from Poetic Justice, Nikki from I Think I Love My Wife, Charlene from Get Rich Or Die Tryin', Lyric from Jason's Lyric, Sara Melas from Hitch, or any other character I could reference).

So, for today, we're bidding adieu to the film themes and just focusing on some cool gift ideas for that urban girl who loves both Jay-Z and Pink, knows every scene in Beat Street and Pulp Fiction, rocks sneakers and stilettos, and shops at Karmaloop and Barney's — in other words, the fliest chick in the game.

New Balance for Nine West Corbitt Sneakers, $89. Visit NineWest.com

New Balance really stepped outside of the box with this punk-y design for its fashion-forward collection for Nine West. The gunmetal-colored studs that make up the "N" logo and which are scattered throughout the sneaker pop out like night stars atop the cerulean blue nylon uppers. I also love the fact that they're hi-tops, which NB rarely tackles.

TOOFLY x GoodWood Trinity Collection Two-Finger Rings, $25 each. Visit TooFlyNYC.com

In the testosterone-laden street art scene, women have to work twice as hard to get the respect of their peers. New York graffiti artist TOOFLY has more than proved her legitimacy as an artist — she's rocked walls, exhibited her work at fine galleries, and collaborated with countless corporations and fashion labels. These carnival bright, joyful two-finger rings are part of a collaboration with GoodWood, an NYC-based label specializing in custom wooden jewelry.

 

Melody Ehsani The See Me Swarovski Earrings, $250. Visit Karmaloop.com

These parrot-shaped earrings say lots of things, but  you won't find "Polly wants a cracker" among them. Like most of Ehsani's pieces, these earrings are made of laser-cut plastic, but they feature strands of Swarovski crystals carefully placed to add the vibrant colors you'd find in this birds' plumage.

FLUD Gold Tableturns Watch, $80. Visit FLUDwatches.com

Forget walking to the beat of her own drum — this lady struts to the scratches of her own turntable. Give the sassy music lover a watch that will tickle her inner DJ.

Maharishi Organic Cotton Hooded Top, $67.50. Visit TheOutnet.com

What would a city girl do without some hooded tees and sweaters? This Maharishi number features a multi-color trim along the edges and is made of organic cotton, so it's perfect for the eco-loving urbanite.

Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Set, $37. Visit Sephora.com

This set includes some of my all-time favorite Carol's Daughter products: the Tui Hair Smoothie, a delicious hair mask that smells like banana, passion fruit and guava and nourishes your tresses with shea and cocoa butter; the Tui Herbal Shampoo, a moisturizing and clarifying wash; and the Hair Milk, a lightweight leave-in conditioner that helps to liven and define naturally wavy/curly hair.

Be & D Studded Convertible Shoulder Tote, $1490. Visit Nordstrom.com

This studded Be & D shoulder bag takes me back to the days when the world was singing along to Michael Jackson's "Beat It" and "Bad." It's got that aggressively playful vibe that epitomizes some of the most memorable pop and hip-hop cuts.

NYX Cosmetics Special Effects Lashes in Midnight Walts, $10. Visit NYXcosmetics.com

In the concrete jungle, we've all got to play up our wild side in order to survive. Make your eyes roar with these dramatic faux lashes from NYX Cosmetics.

Fallon Jewelry Berlin Necklace, $198. Visit Shopbop.com

This is one tangled web any girl would want to weave — or, at the very least, wear. The chunky Berlin  necklace features silver-plated and brass chains, along with multiple strands of Swarovski crystals ,wrapped around a heavy silver link chain and intertwined with oxidized metal, disc-shaped charms.

The Piecebook Reloaded by David Villorente and Sacha Jenkins. Visit Amazon.com

Much respect to graffiti legend Chino, whose passion for the artform has never wavered and who continues to make the masses appreciate its legitimacy and its visual power. Piecebook Reloaded, a collaboration with Ego Trip founder Sacha Jenkins, includes sketches from various writers' blackbooks (including Revolt, Reas, Ces, Cope 2 and many others) and spans the years 1982-2005. It's the graff equivalent of digging in the crates.

Easy Hey Kid Onion 5-inch Toy, $39.95. Visit KidRobot.com

Instead of investing in sculptures or canvas paintings, many of us city kids would rather collect interesting vinyl figures like the Kid Onion toy pictured above. Check out his red Chuck Taylors!

New Balance For Nine West Chizzle Sneakers, $89. Visit NineWest.com

Not ready to commit to a leopard print dress or a giraffe print jacket? With these cheetah print New Balance for Nine West kicks, you can tiptoe into the wild kingdom — one step at a time.

Cubannie Links Guerra Chain, $52. Visit Karmaloop.com

Love is a battlefield, so give your beloved friend all the right weaponry with this new Cubannie Links chain, which features a bullet case pendant.

StrangeCo IWG Titus Plush Toy, $29.99. Visit Amazon.com

At first glance, this may seem like a run-of-the-mill teddy bear. But look closer — notice how this little guy's eyes are of two different sizes and how one little fang protrudes from edges of his silly grin. This little guy is a warrior, but dang, is he cuddly!

Sam Edelman Zoe Boot, $350. Visit UrbanOutfitters.com

Every time I look at these boots, I think of the outfits Madonna wore in her Blonde Ambition tour — the coned bustiers, the garter belts, and knee-high stocking. And yet another image also pops into my head: one of an equestrian performing a trick while atop his/her horse's saddle. The square too, hefty platform, quilted harness-like detail, and the two buckle straps all help to create this equestrian-meets-burlesque effect.

CC Skye Wicked Ring, $150. Visit Shopbop.com

I remember the first time I heard someone say "wicked" in approval. It was a complete clash of cultures moment, as I tried to decipher whether it was a denouncement or a celebration. I quickly realized her "wicked" was the equivalent of my "dope," "fresh," and "fly." Within that paradigm, then, this CC Skye ring's name is quite fitting.

TY KU Premium Liqueur 2009 Holiday Set, $32.99. Visit TryTyKu.com for availability.

I love when a present's packaging is a gift in and of itself. This holiday kit includes a 750 ml bottle of TY KU, a Soju vodka loaded with antioxidants for a health-boosting take on liqueur, and a chrome and custom glass shaker — both packaged in a box adorned with artwork from Tokyo's bubbling pop art scene. The box is so cool you'll want to keep it on display.

Dillanthology, Vol. 3, $14.98. Visit Amazon.com

For the third consecutive year since we lost the ultra talented producer J Dilla (may he rest in peace), Rapster is releasing its third album in the Dillanthology tribute series. This particular album focuses mainly on J Dilla's solo work, compiling together cuts like "Nothing Like This, "Won't Do," and "It's Like That."

Reebok Top Down x Hellz Bellz Sneakers, $100. Visit Karmaloop.com

You don't need a convertible to rock with the top down. These hi-top Reebok kicks, a collaboration with the super fly streetwear brand Hellz Bellz, feature fold-down tops (the inside is lined with this cool graphic print that looks like a pixelated image), black leather uppers with tiny perforations, and a strip featuring two rows of square, pyramid studs.

LAMB Signature Collapsible Tote, $295. Visit Nordstrom.com

The paint splatter design of this tote conjures up images of subway art and elaborate wall murals, while the grid along the back makes you think of wire fences for yet another urban visual reference.

Kowboys Black Foil Wedge Shirt, $98. Visit Kowboys.net

The silver foil-like print on this distressed, black short-sleeved top is the perfect piece to wear with skinny black jeans or a pencil skirt for a sleek but edgy look.

Urban Decay Book of Shadows Vol. II, $48. Visit UrbanDecay.com

It may be called the Book of Shadows, but this Urban Decay set will make you want to scream, "Let there be light!" The set includes UD's Eyeshadow Primer Potion, two 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils (in Zero and Bourbon), and 16 eye shadow shades.

DJ Hello Kitty Hey T-Shirt, $24. Visit 80sTees.com

It seems like Hello Kitty got into the spirit of Zhane's "Hey DJ." Remember how it kicks off? It goes: "Everybody, move your body — now do it/Here is something, that's gonna make you move and groove/Hey DJ, keep playing my song all night/On and on an on." Yup, HK is apparently ready to keep you movin' and groovin'.

PUMA Mihara Sneakers, $179. Visit Zappos.com

Instead of an all-over zebra print, PUMA went for a slightly subtler look here, utilizing the print only along the heel and the velcro strap along the ankle. The perforated whiter leather uppers, meanwhile, add yet another texture element for an even more intriguing effect.

Tokidoki for Hello Kitty Rolling Suitcase, $250. Visit Shop.Sanrio.com

Hello Kitty's face replaces that of some of your favorite Tokidoki characters (from Mozzarella to Sandy, Bastardino, Sabochan, and more) in this quirky Sanrio suitcase, which brings a whole new meaning to the expression "rollin' with the homies."

Lipstick Queen Five Minutes of Fame Mini Set, $28. Visit LipstickQueen.com

If there's one thing Lil' Mama did right (and frankly, it may be the ONLY thing she did right), it was let the world know how much girls in the hip-hop generation love their lipgloss. The Five Minutes of Fame set features five shades: 3, a coral pink; 5, an orange-y nude; 11, a magenta-tinged purple; 12, a pink with lilac undertones; and 13, a light poppy red.

DKNY Be Delicious Limited Edition Interchangeable Rollerball Set, $30. Available exclusively at ULTA stores.

This set is pure genius. If you love the fruity apple scent o DKNY's Be Delicious and Red Delicious scents, you're going to adore this gift set, which includes four miniature rollerballs: the Be Delicious EDP Rollerball, the Be Delicious Juicy Apple Accord Rollerball, the Be Delicious Sweet Floral Accord Rollerball, and the Be Delicious Sex-A-Peel Accord Rollerball — all of which can be mixed and matched so you can add a nice twist to your Be Delicious fragrance.

Love Rocks NY Crack Black Diamond Hoops, $4000. Visit LoveRocksNY.com

What Jenny from the Block type doesn't have a trusty pair of hoop earrings? But finding some hoops that stand out from the crowd? That's a different story. With its zig-zagging, jagged edges and rows of black diamonds, these earrings will highlight her star status.

Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies Bag Collection: Brush Case, $20; Clutch, $28; and Travel Bag, $48. Visit Sephora.com

For the winter season, the Harajuku Girls (Love, Angel, Baby and Music) stored away their jumpers, baby doll dresses and mini skirts and reached for their yummy coats, sweater vests, scarves and mittens. These makeup cases come in five different sizes (four of which are pictured above), each with a different Harajuku Girl against a white backdrop adorned with giant snowflakes.

 
Nooka x Hellz Bellz "Hellz Zoo" Watch, $285. Visit Nooka.com

Nooka's digital watches are already stellar, but this one has an out-of-this-world feel with the dark blue, violet, magenta, fuchsia, white,  and light blue nebulae print on the face.

DC Shoes Life Collection Women's Admiral Sneakers, $100. Visit Store.DCShoes.com

Hi-top kicks seem to be getting narrower and more polished this season — but DC Shoes was way ahead of its competition on that one, having designed the Admiral silhouette ages ago. The new black and purple colorway, meanwhile, works beautifully for the chilly months ahead.

Cubannie Links The Freedom Tri-Rings In Gold And Green, $70. Visit Karmaloop.com

These CL earrings feature braided strips of leather twisted into triangular shapes. The army green, light green and gold leather strips are perfect for the gal who loves camo print and military motifs.

The Wire Tees, $28 each. Available at the HBO Store and at Karmaloop.com

Are you still mourning the end of HBO's The Wire? Well, you can still celebrate the series and its key characters with these new tees, which are available at the HBO store.

SOBRAL Flash Gordon Harvey Bangle Bracelets, $85 each. Visit SOBRALUSA.com

Ever since I discovered this jewelry line, I've been obsessed! The pieces are affordable, stylish, and oh so unique. The Flash Gordon lucite bracelets feature a wooden brown color and a gold linear pattern that's just the slightest bit flashy and all the way fly.

It's Just Begun: The Epic Journey of DJ Disco Wiz, Hip Hop's First Latino DJ by Ivan Sanchez and Luis "DJ Disco Wiz" Cedeno, $15.61. Visit Amazon.com

Latinos have played a pivotal part in hip-hop's history — we were there from the very beginning. I mean, think about it: a movement that was birthed in the South Bronx that doesn't include Puerto Ricans? The very thought is absurd! Here, DJ Disco Wiz, one of the very first Latino DJs to receive massive recognition, tells his story.

NotNeutral Triton Lacquer Tray Set, $220. Visit NotNeutral.com

Notice how you can make out an image of a face in these three trays, which feature orange lacquer against a brown backdrop? Well, that's the face of Triton, the son of Poseidon and Amphitrite, the god and goddesses of the sea. You can use these trays to store anything from jewelry to keys, glasses, and any other valuables.

JK Jemma Kidd I-Conic Eyes Mini Liners, $32. Visit Target.com

How can you any fly girl pull of a Sasha Fierce look without some eyeliner? With this four-piece miniature eyeliner set, a dramatic eye look is always within reach.

DC Shoes Women's Henry Jacket, $82. Visit Store.DCShoes.com

You don't have to spend hundreds and thousands of dollars to stay warm this season. This bubble jacket is extra soft and comfortable, and it'll keep you nice and toasty.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 9 -- For The Seductive, Retro-Loving Joan Holloway Type

Roger Sterling isn't the only one whose heart skips a beat at the sight of Joan Holloway (or Joan Harris, if we refer to the newlywed by her married name), the voluptuous redhead who efficiently ran the Sterling Cooper ad agency (well, until midway through Mad Men's third season, when she got hitched to a handsome doctor). Fortunately, those of you who tuned in for the Season 3 finale know Joan will once again keeping the advertising boys in check at their new upstart company — which should make for a really entertaining fourth season.

After all, Joan is more than eye candy for the boys and style inspiration for the girls:  she's discreet and capable of keeping mum about the most sordid personal affairs pertaining to her superiors; she rules the secretary pool with equal parts charm and venom; she's smart, focused, and determined (whether she's reading TV scripts to help Harry's newly formed broadcasting department or she's playing the role of devoted wife); and she's magnetizing — even when she's having a decidedly bitchy moment. Best of all, maybe now that she's working with Roger again on a day-to-day basis, the two will finally dump their loser spouses and get together (hey, a gal can dream, right?). If nothing else, we'll get to see Christina Hendricks strutting her stuff in her hip-hugging dressed and pencil skirts, snug sweaters, intricate updos, red fingernails, and signature pen necklace.

Here, a gift guide inspired by Joan Holloway — and those who, like me, can't get enough of her style.

Jill Of All Trades Dress in CEO, $49.99. Visit ModCloth.com

Remember the "Babylon" episode, where the Sterling Cooper boys had Joan gather all the secretaries in a room and have them test Belle Jolie lipsticks, as they watched their reactions through a one-way glass? In the episode, Joan wore a red dress much like this one, with a discreet but curve-hugging shape and a pretty scoop neckline.

1960s Inspired Gold Tone Pen Necklace, $20. Visit Amazon.com

The gold tone pen necklace Joan wears around her neck signifies her status as the resident Queen Bee — it's the office manager's equivalent of a royal specter.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Pumps, $182.70. Visit Couture.Zappos.com

While she loves to play up her feminine assets, Joan isn't one for flashy displays at the work place. In fact, she chewed Jane's head off for flaunting her decolletage at the work place. Her shoes, then, are simple and classic, with a pointed toe and a sensible pump.

Vintage Hand Chased Lipstick Holder With Blue Accent Stone In 800 Silver, $75. Visit AffordableVintageJewelry.com

Joan Holloway types take pride in having their makeup look flawless — and routinely reapplying lipstick is key. This retro lipstick holder allows her to keep her lip color safe and comes with a handy mirror for quick touch-ups.

Curations With Stefani Greenfield "Duchess" Simulated Pearl 29" Necklace, $64.90. Visit HSN.com

Like most stylish women in the '60s, Joan appreciates pearls — and the tassel at the tip of this four-strand necklace would be yet another selling point.

Peachbloom Velour Vintage 1960s Taupe Hat, $37.99. Visit MySweetiePiePie.Etsy.com

This pillbox hat looks like it belongs in Jackie Kennedy's personal collection — and, as we all know (even if it's from watching Mad Men), every girl wanted to be either a Jackie, a Marilyn, or both.

Kenneth Jay Lane White Crystal Wreath Clip-On Earrings, $68.85. Visit Bluefly.com

Domed round clip-on earrings abound in Joan's jewelry box. They're classic and simple, and they frame her gorgeous features, drawing attention to them as opposed to drawing the eye away from the face.

Mad Men Season Two DVD Set, $17.99. Visit Amazon.com

What could make a better gift for a die-hard Man Man fan than the Season 2 box set? She can rally on Joan's behalf as the rivalry with Jane begins, cry with her when the news of Marilyn Monroe's death hits the office, celebrate her engagement to a handsome doctor, secretly root for her to end up with Roger Sterling, and much more.

 

Estee Lauder Golden Lattice Powder Compact, $49. Visit EsteeLauder.com

Any woman with a reasonable concern for her appearance will make sure to carry along a compact — and, if she's like Joan Holloway, she'll make sure all the other ladies ogle at her beautiful compact as she powders her nose in the restroom.

Dior Babe Leather Frame Bag, $3730. Visit SaksFifthAvenue.com

The square shape of this leather Dior purse and its frame-like hinge top channels the subtle glamour of the early '60s.

Vintage Chanel 3 CC Necklace, $795. Available at ShopWGACA.com

There's a reason why What Goes Around Comes Around has earned such a vast fan base — the vintage boutique offers authentic designer pieces (jewelry, apparel, handbag, footwear, and more). Just in time for the holidays, WGACA is offering vintage lovers a chance to snag some authentic Chanel necklaces, like the 3 CC piece pictured above.

Chloé Intense Eau de Parfum, $98. Visit SaksFifthAvenue.com

What woman doesn't like getting a dozen roses? The Chloé Intense eau de parfum features the rose notes from the original Chloé fragrance, as well as pink pepper, sandalwood, and Tonka bean notes. The pink pepper notes add a spicy, exotic quality perfect for va-va-va-voom gals like Joan.

Essie Lollipop, $8. Visit EssieShop.com

Though she'll occasionally opt for sheer nude colors or pale pinks, Joan's nails are most often coated with red lacquer. Essie's new winter shade, Lollipop, has a lovely retro charm pus it has a jolly seasonal quality (it's like the bright red nose of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in all the vintage caricatures and cartoon films).

Christian Dior Short Sleeve Sweater, $170. Visit Yoox.com

Though her bra cups are a-brimmin', Joan isn't one to wear low-cut tops or flaunt her cleavage. Instead, she opts for short-sleeved, scoop neck sweater tops that fit her like the proverbial glove.

Alberta Ferretti Wool Bouclé Pencil Skirt, $416.50. Visit Net-A-Porter.com

One of Joan's favorite workplace-ready looks consist of a sleek pencil skirt and a short-sleeved sweater top or long-sleeved tie-neck blouse. To get that secretarial look during the colder winter months, a wool skirt like this Alberta Ferretti piece will more than do the trick.

Judith Jack Amarillo Marcasite 14K Gold Vermeil Brooch, $135. Visit Zappos.com

Intricate brooches are key when trying to pull off a pre-Mod '60s look. By adding an elegant brooch to a sweater dress, a simple blouse, or even a scarf, Joan can add a bit of glam to even the most understated ensemble.

Emilio Pucci Tribeca Silk Twill Scarf, $295. Visit Bloomingdales.com

Though she prefers to leave her red tresses uncovered, Joan does occasionally wrap a scarf around her head (especially when she's spending time at home with her new husband Greg). This Pucci scarf will look great whether it's draped around the shoulders or tied around the head.

 

D&G Grey Vernice Pumps, $420. Visit Stylebop.com

These grey pumps have just a tiny bit of pink trim along the sole and heel for a coquetish, ultra girly feel.

1960s Pearl & Rhinestone Clip-On Earrings, $75. Visit BeautyCrisis.com to order.

These authentic vintage 1960s earrings feature four pearl stones, set in sterling silver and arranged in a crescent moon shape, with a row of rectangular rhinestones adjacent to it.

Zero + Maria Cornejo Ruched Felted Gloves, $129. Visit LaGarconne.com

Sophisticated ladies won't bare their arms when walking outside — instead, they cover them up with elbow-length gloves like these Zero + Maria Cornejo ones.

Burt's Bees Pola-Dot Perfect Mani-Pedi Gift Set, $20. Visit BurtsBees.com

This adorable Burt's Bees mani-pedi set, packaged in a retro red case with white polka dots, includes a nail file, a tube of Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme, a Burt's Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme, a tin of Burt's Bees Lemon Oil Cuticle Cream, and a tube of Replenishing Lip Balm.

Vintage '60s Bonwit Teller Red Nylon Coat With Navy Blue Embroidery and Belt, $95. Visit RiceAndBeansVintage.com

This red coat feature a brick-like print created with navy blue embroidery, as well as eight front buttons and a navy belt — the perfect way to cinch that waist and show off those killer curves.

Gal Pal Say It With Love Retro Ice Pack, $16. Visit Unique-Vintage.com

Whether she's at home with her hubby or she's at the office with all the advertising execs, Joan is always having to play caretaker. In fact, Joan was the one who saved McKendrick from bleeding to death when Lois took a John Deere tractor for a spin around the office and ran over his foot. But that Season 3 accident was particularly garish — most times, what Joan has to cure are hangovers, headaches, and bruised egos. And, in two out of three of those cases, these ice packs would come in handy.

Vintage 1960s Ashtray, $40. Visit VintageLooks.com

You may not condone smoking, but back in the '60s, there were practically more cigarettes than light bulbs being lit. Sure, maybe the Joan Holloway-esque gal in your life knows better than to entertain this habit but, if she won't give up the habit, then she might as well have a nice ashtray to keep the rest of her house ash-free.

POP Beauty Pin Up Beauty Kit, $9.99. Visit Ulta.com

Though Pop's Pin Up Beauty Kit is mostly inspired by the '40s pin-up girls, the influence of these women carried over into the '50s and early '60s thanks to Marilyn Monroe's soaring popularity and to the consistent usage of similar visuals in advertising campaigns. From neutral colors to dark blue shades, this palette has a hue for every outfit in your Joan Holloway's closet.

Jean Paul Gaultier Maille Femme Short Sleeve Sweater, $149. Visit Yoox.com

It's all about the details with this Jean Paul Gaultier Femme sweater -- from the sleeves' French cuff, which makes them balloon just the slightest bit, to the way the collar sits right at the neck, providing ample coverage, and the way the fabric hugs the wearer's bosom.

Vintage February Coat, $149.99. Visit ModCloth.com

There's something about redheads wearing dark green colors — it just works. Joan Holloway is well aware of this heavenly match, which is why she often drapes herself in forest green and emerald green garments and jewels. This dark green coat would bring out her coloring and the fur collar would add the necessary posh quality.

Crosley 302 Classic Red Wall Phone, $65. Visit CSNStores.com

This rotary wall phone resembles the one Joan's been answering these days when Greg is away at the ER and Roger calls to hear her Marilyn Monroe-esque, purr-y voice.

Magnolia Bakery Aprons, Starting At $22. Visit MagnoliaBakery.com

Ever since her trip down the aisle, Joan's been trying to manage being a working woman with taking care of her household — and, of course, that involves spending time in the kitchen. If you have someone in your life who's got the cooking bug, she might appreciate one of these retro aprons from Magnolia Bakery in Manhattan.

Marcel Wanders For Target Candle Tapers, $14.99 For Set of 2, and Pillar Candles, $19.99 Each. Visit Target.com

Sure, at the conclusion of Season 3, Mad Men has yet to enter the Mod era (Twiggy's minis and white patent leather boots haven't made a splash just yet), but it's only a matter of time before Joan has to redecorate to get into a groovier mood. She can start with these sculptural candles by Marcel Wanders for Target.

Portolano Leather Gloves, $185. Visit BergdorfGoodman.com

These opera-length leather gloves will keep any ladies' arms cozy in the winter time while also giving her a polished look.

Rolfs Nostalgia Collection Cigarette Case. Visit Ebags.com

Joan is way too tidy to simply toss her cigarettes inside her handbag. No, she'd have them stored in a nice case, such as this embossed brown leather case.

1960s Gold Flower Pearl Clip-On Earrings, $95. Visit BeautyCrisis.com to order

These dome-shaped gold earrings feature a center made of pearls arranged in a daisy-like shape, creating fan even daintier, more ladylike look.

Shabby Apple Madison Avenue Dress, $76. Visit ShabbyApple.com

I fell in love with this dress the moment I laid eyes on it. From its tulip-shaped skirt to its trench coat-like buttons, slightly puffed sleeves, and its cheeky houndstooth print, Shabby Apple's Madison Avenue dress manages to capture a retro feel without looking the least bit dated. Need another reason to buy it? Get this: Shabby Apple donates 5% of its net profits to Unitus, an organization that provides micro-credit loans to women in developing countries.

Soap & Glory Plane Jane Gift Set, $22.94. Visit Target.com

Packaged in a cheeky, newspaper print-covered vinyl toiletry bag, the Soap & Glory Plane Jane set includes: a 5 oz. bottle of the Clean On Me Body Wash; a 1.69 fl. oz. jar of the Flakeaway Body Scrub; a 1.69 fl. oz. bottle of Righteous Butter Body Butter;  a 1.69 fl. oz. Hair Supply tube; a 4.2 fl. oz. tube of Great Shakes Hand Cream;  a 3.4 fl. oz. Girligo Body Spray bottle; and a pink bath pillow.

Lancome Dual Finish Versatile Powder Makeup, $35.50. Visit Sephora.com

When it comes to applying powder, Joan Holloway types would opt for patting their faces with thick powder puff over buffing them with brushes. Lancome's Dual Finish powder provides excellent coverage, proving that pressed powder is not just a thing of the past.

Mrs. O: The Face of Fashion Democracy by Mary Tomer, $17.50. Visit Amazon.com

Michelle Obama has already established a reputation as the most stylish First Lady since Jackie Kennedy. And just like Joan adored Jackie, current-day, Joan-like gals would adore Michelle and her modern but demure take on presidential fashion.

Sur La Tete Posey Pillbox Hat, $24.95. Visit VillageHatShop.com

This pillbox hat is a lovely shade of pink — it would go perfectly with the sweater Joan wore when she announced her engagement to all the girls at the office.

Sophie Hatbox Shaped Jewel Box, $93.95. Visit Bellacor.com

In the '50s and '60s, when women covered their manes while outside, it was essential to keep hats in their cases so they could stain clean and retain their shapes. And, of course, eventually the hat boxes themselves became a fashion statement. This jewelry box celebrates the shape of these vintage hat boxes.

Vintage Black Scalloped Lace Beaded Dress, $38. Visit NodtoModVintage.Etsy.com

The beaded lace sleeves on this vintage dress add a quaint touch to the basic silhouette.

 

Jade Green 60s Vinyl Vanity Suitcase, £45.00. Visit StardustOnline.com

Messenger bags and duffle bags had yet to become acceptable luggage styles in the '50s and '60s — and, while modern styles maximize convenience and comfort, they tend to lack the kind of easy style found in most vintage suitcases.

Cafe Bustelo's The Bustelo Supreme Basket, $64.99. Visit JavaCabana.com

Part of Joan's job as an office manager at Sterling Cooper involved making sure the executives always had coffee available to them (and, of course, having a few cups herself to stay alert). A modern-day Joan Holloway, then, would appreciate this Bustelo gift basket, which includes six Bustelo coffee cups and saucers, an imported coffee pot, and a one-pound bag of Bustelo Supreme beans.

Kahlua Coffee Cream, $17.99. Available at most liquor stores. Visit Kahlua.com

A gal like Joan appreciates both coffee and liquor, and Kahlua's new Coffee Cream fuses together both of these worlds. It's like a ready-to-serve White Russian — but sweeter (and minus the vodka). That means not having to worry about fetching the milk and mixing the Kahlua and dairy together.

Holiday Gift Guide Special -- Gifts for the Kids!

If you're like me, you've procrastinated about buying your kids' Christmas gifts and are now in full-fledged panic mode. Maybe your kids are old enough to write letters to Santa, asking for specific toys, electronics, and garments, or maybe they're making the whole ordeal a complete guessing game (as mine has so graciously done! lol). And, if you're buying something for your nieces and nephews, baby siblings, godchildren, or your friends' children, then you could probably use a bit of guidance on what to buy. Not to worry — here's a run-down of some fantastic options for both boys and girls, from the newborn to the pre-teen stages of life.

Monnalisa Girls Black Puffer Coat, $208. Visit PeachAndPlum.com

Do I really need to wax poetic about the wonder of this coat? Just look at it — if they had it in adult sizes, I'd be scheming on how to buy it for myself!

 
Carol's Daughter A Magical Beauty Gift Set, $24.50. Visit CarolsDaughter.com

Finally, the line adored by so many women of color (myself included) has launched a collection aimed at our little ones. The Magical Beauty collection features products like bubble bath, shampoo and conditioner — all bearing images of Tiana, the heroine in Disney's The Princess and the Frog.

Gifts That Give Baby Bunch Lollipop Onesie, $10. Visit GiftsThatGive.com

Any new mommy will appreciate the whimsical packaging of this gift, how the red-and-white striped onesie is rolled in such a way as to resemble an enormous lollipop pattern, then covered with a clear plastic, and tied with a curled ribbon.

Yellow Label Kids Handknitted Cupcakes, $32. Visit Amazon.com

As your baby develops, he/she will become increasingly fascinated by colors, textures and shapes. These handknitted cupcakes are easy for babies to clutch in their little hands and will provide hours of amusement and awe — they'll be almost as enraptured with these as you are by the frosting-covered originals.

Tretorn Polar Bear Boots, $45. Available at the Tretorn Shop in NYC and on Tretorn.com

Ever noticed how, as we watch the weather reports and dread the possibility of wintry blizzards, our little ones rejoice whenever they hear about the possibility of snow? For them, snow-covered yards, parks, fields (and sidewalks) are the ultimate playgrounds. So keep your little baby's toes toasty in Tretorn's Polar Bear boots and go build a snowman or two.

 

 

The Children's Place Pig Plushie Toy, $5.50, and Pink Wiggly Pig Board Book, $7.50. Visit ChildrensPlace.com

Imagine having a stuffed animal with which to reenact every scene in the book you read your baby at bedtime? Is there a neater way to peak their interest? For more gift options from The Children's Place (and fun news, promos, and giveaways, visit their official Facebook page.

Hasbro Tonka Chuck & Friends Chuck My Talking Truck, $24.99. Visit ToysRUs.com and Target.com

This is the type of toy you'll secretly want to play with while your kid is taking a nap. The Chuck My Talking Truck toy is as sturdy as any Tonka truck, but it's a way better conversationalist, sharing such sentiments as, "Let's get to work!" and "Time to find some dirt." Plus, it comes with a story book for an educational twist.

Sonia Rykiel Enfant Girls Dress With Sequins, $137.90. Visit PeachAndPlum.com

This long-sleeved, striped dress, which bears a depiction of a woman's face adorned with silver sequins, will make your little bon-bon look like she's ready to sashay down the runway during Paris Fashion Week.

J. Crew Girls' Twinkle Ballet Flats, $128. Visit JCrew.com

These ballet flats are imbued with almost as much magic as Dorothy's ruby red slippers. They're the perfect footwear choice for the golden child in your life.

Ikea Soft Toys, $3.99 to $9.99. Visit Ikea.com

If there's one thing Ikea carries that requires absolutely no assembly it's soft plush toys. From oversize green crocodiles to yellow lions, red hippos, blue giraffes, and miniature red mouses, Ikea offers a veritable zoo of snuggly stuffed animals.

GloPad GloDoodle, $15. Visit Amazon.com

This is no ordinary drawing pad — when you touch the screen or the styles attached to the GloDoodle, a light comes on and the entire screen looks see-through, allowing you to place it atop any picture, photo, or drawing and trace that image. Plus, the light comes in three colors (red, yellow, and green), and the drawings glow in the dark. Pure awesomeness.

Restoration Hardware Cuddle Plush Bowling Set, $44. Visit RHBabyAndChild.com

A bowling alley without the sticky shoes, the deafening noise of collapsing pins, and the cheesy '80s tunes? Score!

WikiReader, $99. Visit TheWikiReader.com

Ever read a book or watched a movie and felt like looking up one of the names or events mentioned on Wikipedia, so that you could get a better understanding of what was discussed therein? The WikiReader is a pocket-sized gadget that brings Wikipedia to your fingertips, so that you can look up any name, place, event, or term whenever you see fit. Now, your kid can whip out the WikiReader whenever curiosity strikes and search the 3 million topics pre-loaded in the gadget.

Ariat Kids' Quickdraw Boots in Brown/Giraffe Print, $79.95. Visit Ariat.com or call 1.800.899.8141

Give your child the boot — no, I don't mean evict her, silly! What I mean is this is your chance to give her THE boot: Ariat's Quickdraw boot in this funky brown/giraffe print with a pink lining and pink piping along the side of the boot shaft.

Old Navy Boys' Plaid Printed/Graphic Pajama Set, $16.50. Visit OldNavy.com

If your tot keeps coming up with excuses to delay his bedtime, you can drive the point home with this pajama set, which features a pair of red, white and blue plaid pants and a shirt with the word "Awake" inside a red circle with a red, diagonal line running across it. It's like a "no parking" sign for bedtime violators.

Play-Doh Star Wars Playset, $14.99. Visit ToysRUs.com

Play-Doh has been a kid-approved toy for many years, but now it's out-of-this-world fun thanks to this R2-D2 Playset. The storage caddy includes a removable head, a rolling cutter, 3 half molds, a plastic knife, scissors, an Anakin book mold, a Lightsaber presser and three 2 oz. Play-Doh cans. You can load some Play-Doh into the top, attach R2-D2's head and press down to see the Play-Doh squeezed out of the various rectangular perforations, press R2-D2's feet down on some Play-Doh to create stamps of C-3PO, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan Kenobi, and much more.

Bakugan 7 in 1 Maxus Dragonoid, $34. Visit Amazon.com

The ultimate mega monster, the Bakugan 7 in 1 Maxus Dragonoid consists of 7 Bakugans (Grakas Hound, Dark Hound, Grafias, Brachium, Spitarm, SpyderFencer and Neo Dragonoid) brought together to form one mammoth creature.

 

Cole Haan Avery Baby Bootie, $39.95. Visit ColeHaan.com

Take a cue from Mrs. Claus and slip your baby's feet into these red suede booties, which feature a cozy faux fur lining and cuff detailing.

Beehive Kitchenware ABC/123 Baby Utensil Set, $31. Visit Elsewares.com

This utensil set makes me want to sing The Jackson Five's "ABC" song at the top of my lungs. And who knows? Maybe with this adorable utensil set, you'll find a way to incorporate the classic anthem into feeding time.

Learning Resources Pretend & Play Cash Register, $29.99. Visit CSNstores.com

Want to teach your little one that money doesn't grow on trees? Then foster his money management skills with this cash register, which includes a handy calculator that will sharpen his math aptitude.

 

LIV Fashion Dolls, $15. Visit ToysRUs.com

Barbie may be an icon, but her fashion sense hasn't exactly adapted to the times. Wearing cool sneakers, knee-high boots, skinny jeans, mini skirts paired with leggings, graphic tees ,looped scarves, and hobo bags, LIV dolls present a much more youthful and hip alternative for your precocious pre-teen — and, you can buy them cute outfits to constantly update their looks.

Obermeyer Short Circuit Jackets in Bumblebee and Roboprint, $109.95 each. Visit Obermeyer.com

Obermeyer's Short Circuit Jacket is a MacGyver-esque option, equipped with a bevvy of handy features. The jacket features: a fleece chin protector and fleece-lined cuffs; an adjustable hem drawcord; a working compass; an interior pocket and several exterior cargo pockets; reflective piping; an integrated hood; and Obermeyer's I-Grow system, a patented system that allows parents to snip colored threads along the cuffs of their kids' jackets and hence lengthen the cuffs by 1 1/2 inches.

Leapster Digging For Dinosaurs Learning Game by Scholastic, $24.95. Available at Store.Scholastic.com, Amazon.com and select retailers.

I remember taking my toddler son to the American Museum of Natural History in New York and watching his little face as he marveled at the sight of those enormous dinosaur skeletons. Now, imagine a game where your boy could dig up dinosaur fossils, build skeletons for Velociraptor, Triceratops, and T-Rexes (among other dinosaur types), and play games that expand his knowledge about how and where these dinosaurs lived, what they consumed, how they moved, and much more.

 

Marvel Mini I/R Controlled Cars (Wolverine and Hulk Styles Pictured Above), $16.99 each. Visit ToysRUs.com

Remote control cars are a barrel of fun, but they also tend to be hassle to figure out, with a zillion control buttons and settings. These Mini I/R Controlled cars are perfect for younger kids, who just want to see their beloved cars zooming past. And the fact that they're available in styles designed after their favorite Marvel characters only sweetens the deal.

Madame Alexander Yuletide Shopper, $84.95, and Holiday Parade Ballerina, $74.95. Available at Amazon.com, FAO.com and other specialty shops.

These artful, luxury are the epitome of holiday cheerfulness. The Yuletide Shopper is my absolute favorite, with her jaunty red beret, emerald green coat, tartan print full skirt, white tights, and red Mary-Jane shoes. The Holiday Parade Ballerina, meanwhile, is kicking up her legs like she's mid-step, performing her carefully orchestrated routine as she walks along the parade route.

Disney Mickey's Magical Christmas DVD, $15.99. Visit Amazon.com

This holiday movie is practically an ode to the Disney empire. The movie kicks off when a snowstorm extends the visits of all the guests at Mickey's House of Mouse (a group that includes Snow White, Belle, Ariel, Goofy, Chip and Dale, Cinderella, Simba, Pinocchio, the 101 Dalmatians, and more), and they try to find ways to keep themselves entertained (and to cure Donald Duck from his "Bah, humbug!" mood). Throughout their stay, they reminisce about all the good times they've had — and they'll be something in those memories that involves your kids' favorite Disney character. It's like a retrospective and a Christmas film in one.

Sassafras Kids' Dexter The Dog Plush Pull-Along, $25. Visit CSNstores.com

Is your baby going through the I-want-a-puppy phase? Well, this adorable, plush pull-along bag will win you a few months of dog-free conversation.

Restoration Hardware Animal Hooded Towels, $22-$29. Visit RHBabyAndChild.com

Bath time will seem like a blast with these animal hooded towels from Restoration Hardware, available in a pink, mint green, or blue color, and in bear or dog styles. For an extra treat, buy some matching slippers so your tot won't get chilly when he/she steps out of the tub.

J.Crew Girls' Long-Sleeve Ballet Slipper Tee, $28. Visit JCrew.com

The ballet slipper graphic on this cozy long-sleeve tee will have your little girl strutting like a primadonna (and her friends hoping she makes a fashion encore).

Holiday Gift Guide Part 6: For The Elle Woods Type

As you probaby know by now, this year's holiday gift guide includes numerous round-ups inspired by iconic female film and TV characters. In previous weeks, we've tailored round-ups to celebrate the personalities and styles of everyone from Liz Lemon (Tina Fey's 30 Rock character) to Penny Lane (Kate Hudson's character in Almost Famous), Elvira Hancock (Michelle Pfeiffer's Scarface character), Aeon Flux, and Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone's Clueless character). Today's gift guide celebrates the style of Elle Woods, the character Reese Witherspoon brought to life in the riotously funny film Legally Blonde. From head-to-toe pink fashions and accessories to manicure supplies, gifts for Brewster (Elle's chihuahua buddy), hair products to keep her locks shiny and soft, and princess-like trinkets, we've got an option that would make any Woods-like gal do the bend-and-snap.

Nine West Boutique 9 "Jayleen" Sandals, $149. Visit NineWest.com

With their hot pink satin-like strips, twisted to form undulating shapes, these Nine West sandals would make any Malibu Barbie's house feel like more of a dreamhouse.

Michael Kors Very Hollywood Solid Perfume Ring, $40. Visit Sephora.com

Elle grew up across the street from Aaron Spelling, remember? Her daily travels through Beverly Hills and Los Angeles involve cavorting with celebrities like Cameron Diaz (do you remember how she said she'd advised Diaz against buying an orange sweater because "whoever said orange is the new pink is seriously deluded"?).  She's as Hollywood as they come. The Michael Kors Very Hollywood Solid Perfume Ring ring is fashioned to look like a cocktail ring, so she can both smell and look like a glamorous Hollywood star.

Josie Maran Moroccan Holiday Collection, $25. Visit Sephora.com

As an avid fashion and beauty lover, any Elle Woods-like girl knows about Josie Maran's prestigious modeling career, her dedication to the environment, and her trailblazing organic skincare and cosmetics line. With this set, which includes a black mascara, two lip glosses (in Happiness, a shimmering pink, and Compassion, a shimmering nude), and a small tube of Maran's ultra moisturizing Argan Oil, the Elle Woods girl in your life will always be camera ready.

Isabella Oliver Wrap Dress, $165. Visit IsabellaOliver.com

This wrap dress is a slightly less glitzy, yet more curve-hugging take on the number Ms. Woods wore in court, as she defended her Delta Nu sister Brooke (played by Ali Larter) from the homicide charges against her.

MAC Cosmetics Do-The-Trick Buff and Line Brush Kit, $49.50. Visit MACcosmetics.com

Any Elle Woods-like girl knows just how to play up her assets. With this brush kit from MAC Cosmetics, she can apply powder perfectly, buffing the substance onto her skin for a flawless finish, accentuate her cheekbones with a slightly slanted brush, and perfect her eye makeup with an all-over brush, a contouring brush, and a liner brush. The five brushes (168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE and 252SE) are packaged in a vinyl pouch with a grosgrain ribbon zipper detail.

Rodial LA Face Lift, $85. Visit Skinstore.com

This California girl wouldn't blink at the mention of plastic surgery, but she'll try to avoid it for as long as she can — and with Rodial's LA Face Lift, a five-piece range of products meant to boost collagen, she probably won't have to worry about any nips and tucks for quite some time. The kit includes the A-List Cleanser, Glamtox Peel, SPF15 Glamtox Eyes Light, SPF18 Glamtox, and Glam Balm.

Nina Precious Nina Eau de Toilette, $72. Visit Macys.com

This limited-edition version of the best-selling Nina EDT incorporates Calabrian bergamot, lemon,  and fresh lime notes to the original formula, which features a heart of peony, moonflower and apple, along with base notes of praline, apple wood and musk. It's packaged in a metallic pink apple-shaped bottle with silver-colored leaves accented with Swarovski crystals. A delicious juice inside a slightly flashy package makes for an irresistible treat: like Elle herself.

Gorjana Star Wrap Necklace, $185. Visit Shopbop.com

This girl can achieve anything she sets her mind to: whether it's judging a tighty-whitey contest for Lambda Kappa Pi, getting into Harvard Law School or winning a case where all the evidence seemed to point towards the defendant being guilty. Let this supernova know what you think of her with this adorable star wrap necklace.

Basic Beanie Hat, $16. Visit TopShop.com

During her first meet-and-greet at Harvard, when she introduced herself and her dog Brestwer as "Gemini vegetarians," Elle wore a pink beret much like this one. With the winter months upon us, a pink beret makes a great gift for the Elle-like diva who needs to stay snug in the cold outdoors.
 

Kate Spade Plaza Bow Pouch, $145. Visit KateSpade.com

Elle Woods types are practically color blind when it comes to any hue other thank pink. The key, then, is finding different shades of pink with which to experiment. This Kate Spade pouch, with its bubbly pink shade, will dangle happily from any lady's wrist.

L'Occitane Sweet Cherry Scented Candle, $28. Visit Usa.Loccitane.com

What girl can't appreciate the smell of a sweet cherry? This luxurious L'Occitane candle smells like candy and fruit all at once — it's like sniffing the center of a freshly baked BonBon cookie with a Maraschino cherry center. Yum!

Preen Collum Dress, $1330. Visit Net-A-Porter.com

When Woods-like gals want a more structured look, they should opt for a dress like this on, with its clever and almost architectural pleating details.

Giuseppe Zanotti E06098 Heels, $550. Visit Zappos.com

Elle Woods sorts may love pink, but they do sometimes settle for a powerful flash of pink as opposed to the all-over color — and these geometric print Giuseppe Zanotti peeptoe heels are so magnetic, we think the pink heel would more than appease a pink-starved Woods sort.

Pureology Signature Collection Pure Volume Petites, $21. Visit Pureology.com for salon locations.

Woods knows her golden locks are an asset, so she replenishes them with hydrating shampoos and conditioners that preserve her color (so her highlights look radiant). Plus, as a vegetarian, animal lover, and friend of the earth, Woods would appreciate Pureology's commitment to using 100% vegan formulas and its no-animal-testing ethos. This set of "petites" includes 2 fl. oz. bottles of Pureology's Pure Volume Shampoo, Pure Volume Conditioner, Pure Volume BlowDry Amplifier, and Essential Repair Split end Correcting System.

Louis Dog Very Tote, $140. Visit UpscalePup.com

No Elle Woods-like gal will leave home without her pooch, and these adorable dog totes will make sure even Brewster sorts travel in style.

Essie Mega Mini Jewels, $15. Visit EssieShop.com

When Elle was laying in bed, trying to get over Warner dumping her, the only way she could be persuaded to leave her room was with the promise of a manicure. And while the Elle Woods in your life may not be hurling boxes of chocolates at a TV screen while in a post-breakup slump, we're pretty sure she'd still skip with excitement at the idea of a manicure — and a box of dainty polish colors to choose from. The Essie Mega Mini Jewels set includes the colors: Marshmallow, a creamy white; Vanity Fairest, a pale pastel pink; Pink Glove, a bubblegum pink; and Really Red, a cherry pie red hue.

Santi Beaded Disco Bag, $115.50. Visit Bloomingdales.com

As much as she loves having constant access to her treasure trove of beauty supplies, her pink planner, and all the other goodies stashed in her purse, sometimes Elle Woods sorts have to downsize — especially when there's a cocktail party involved. Show her that less can be more with this Santi bag.

Origins Mask Marvels, $35. Available at select Origins, Macy's and Dillards stores.

Elle Woods-like gals understand that it's not just about putting your best foot forward —  it's also about putting your best face forward. To that end, they'll appreciate this set of three masks: Clear Improvement, a pore-clearing charcoal mask; Drink Up, a hydrating product; and Out of Trouble, a soothing and clarifying number. Talk about saving face!

Chooka Hello Kitty Crest Rain Pups, $79.95. Visit Endless.com

Though Elle Woods types are dog lovers, there is one cat they can resist: Hello Kitty. These Chooka rain boots combine two Woodsian loves: all-over pink and HK cuteness.

Christine Mighion 14k Gold Organic Disc and Rhodolite Garnet Hoops, $600. Visit ChristineMighion.com

Though Woods is a princess, she's not one for really large pieces of jewelry. Instead, she'll opt for girly charm bracelets, simple pendant, and cutesy earrings like these Christine Mighion gold hoops, which include just a dash of pink through the rhodolite garnet charms.

Lorac Couture Shine Gloss Collection, $22.50. Visit Sephora.com

Girly girls won't ever be spotted with naked lips — gloss is about as essential to them as oxygen. Give them high shine glosses in colors they'll absolutely adore with Lorac's Shine Gloss Collection, which includes the shades: Haute, a carnation pink; Couture/Haute Couture, a brown-ish rose; Sheer Luxe/Grand Luxe, a deep wine-like shade; Glam, a shimmering metallic rose with nude undertones; and Lavish/Somptueux, a sparkling, sheer bright pink hue.

Juicy Couture Ski Goggles, $98. Visit NeimanMarcus.com

Sure, Elle Woods types tend to be beach rather than snow bunnies but, if they're going to conquer those snow-covered slopes, they're going to do so in style — and these Juicy Couture sky goggles are the perfect building block for any skiing wardrobe.

Onitsuka Tiger by Asics Snowtopia Boots, $100. Visit Zappos.com

From the pink stripes to the pink pom-pom details along the back, these insulated, snow-ready boots will make Elle Woods sorts feel ready to take on the elements.

In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Eau de Parfum Spray, $34. Visit Avon.com

Any Elle Woods lover has to pay homage to the woman who brought the original to life: Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon. And what better way to do so than by wearing her new fragrance, a white floral bouquet with peach notes?

Samantha Thavasa Bag in Bear, $75. Visit SamanthaThavasaUSA.com to find a retailer near you.

Since she's starting to think of the environment more and more, Elle Woods sorts will appreciate these adorable bear dolls, which have reusable totes stuffed inside of them (to eliminate the need to ever use plastic bags). It's an innovative approach to reusable bags and, besides, Brewster would love these cute metallic bears!

Celine Silk Organza Cocktail Dress, $915. Visit TheOutnet.com

Similar to the dress Woods wore in her application video to Harvard (in the part where she discusses her knowledge of legal jargon), this Celine dress might get more than a few cat calls (to which Woods can object, of course!).

Hello Kitty for Simmons Jewelry Co. Watch, $75. Visit Zales.com

With all her important legal appointments, Elle has to make sure she's always on schedule. But don't expect her to opt for a boring ol' watch — she's way more likely to add a girly-gir twist with a piece like this Hello Kitty for Simmons Jewelry Co. watch.

Fashionation Universal Flat Speakers, $14.95. Visit FashionationStyle.com

Whether she's reading law books while on the Stairmaster or sitting in front of her vanity mirror perfecting her makeup, Elle types need to keep the music flowing to get their spirits high. These speakers take up minimal space and deliver a surprisingly big sound.

Hershey's Kiss Diamond Necklace, $995. Visit HersheysKissJewelry.com

She may watch her figure and exercise constantly, but Elle Woods types know all about the joys of chocolate. And when they want to hint at their sweet tooth, they can do so with a whimsical necklace such as this one.  

Junk Food "Little Miss Giggles Don't Open 'Til Xmas" and "Little Miss Giggles I Want It All!" Tees, $23 each. Visit AnonymousVenice.com

If there's one thing Elle Woods know how to do (besides primping), it's partying. They can turn any ordinary day into a cause for celebration — so imagine just how much enthusiasm they carry into the holiday season. These adorable tees will speak to her Christmas cheer.

Happy Thanksgiving! Give Thanks, Eat Up, And Get Ready For Black Friday Shopping

Happy Thanksgiving, my lovely readers! Today, as I reflect on all the blessings in my life and all the things for which I am so very grateful, all of you come to mind. I'm thankful for each and every single one of you!

Now, I know you want the scoop on shopping alternatives for tomorrow. Like me, the mere thought of venturing outside, vying for parking outside a mall, and dealing with shrieking, shoving crowds, might just make you want to pop a couple of Aleves. Fortunately, you don't have to deal with all the madness — the key is to gather up Intel on the best online deals for Back Friday so that you can stay home, nurse your hangover, and stay cozy in your PJs.

Here, a look at some of the greatest Black Friday events in Cyberspace.

Nine West is offering up to 50% off on select styles, such as these Jawbreaker boots, which are regularly priced at $149 and are now available for $74.50. To check out more of the sale items, visit NineWest.com

This online promotion literally has me counting the hours!! As a special thank you to its loyal customers, Zoya is offering them six FREE green nail lacquers (Envy, Irene, Tangy, Midori, Suvi and Veruschka) with any purchase of $20 or more. The "Green Friday" promotion begins today at 5 p.m. ET and expires tomorrow, November 27th at p.m. ET. To enjoy the deal, make sure to enter the promo code GREENFRIDAY at checkout. Visit Zoya.com

Tulle's coats are so adorable that they'll perk up any wardrobe, and their blouses, skirts, and dresses make for great staples. Starting on Friday, enjoy savings of 50% on all items on Tulle4Us.com — and free ground shipping.

I've been lusting after a Mackage coat all season. From high funnel collars to belted details, zippers, and sumptuous wool and leather fabrics, Mackage coats have this rebellious spirit, like high fashion meets the apocalypse, that's just sinfully fabulous. From Nov. 27th through Nov. 30th, enjoy savings of up to 40% on Mackage.com

Hayden-Harnett is kicking the festivities off early, with an in-store and online sale that opens today, November 26th and lasts through the 29th. Enjoy savings of 30% off on handbags, 40% off on apparel, and 20% off small accessories from their fall/winter collection. Visit HaydenHarnett.com

Can't get enough of Anna Sheffield's Bing Bang line? Now is your chance to snatch up one of her pieces at 30% off. The sale starts on Nov. 27th at midnight and lasts for 24 hours. Visit AnnaSheffield.com

You have to love Endless.com! Starting today, you can save 30% off on full-price boots and slippers for women, men, and kids. So, if you're still looking for that perfect pair of warm weather boots (or the perfect knee-high black boots, which is an elusive quest for me), this might be a great opportunity for you. Visit Endless.com

Lucky Brand is feeling mighty generous for Black Friday! Throughout the weekend (11/27-11/29), customers at Lucky Brand retail stores and at LuckyBrand.com can enjoy this fabulous promotion, whereby when they purchase one item, they can get a second item (of equal or lesser value) for 50% off the regular price. Visit LuckyBrand.com

Eidia Lush allows you to create a customized pair of heels using a vast array of fabric patterns that speak to many different styles and personalities. On Friday, you can get 25% off your order when you enter the code ELBLACKFRIDAY at checkout — and, if you follow Eidia Lush on Twitter, you might just learn about a giveaway or two! Visit EidiaLush.com

Get Your Read On! Three Books To Cop Now

Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History 1955-Present (edited by Gail Buckland), $26.40. Visit Amazon.com

An impressively comprehensive, veritable "who's who" of music photographers and their most iconic pictures, Who Shot Rock & Roll will leave you breathless. The electrifying photos in this tome not only cover a broad range of time periods and rock/pop genres (from punk to rap), but they showcase various photographers' styles while maintaining its fluidity. In it, you'll find classic photos by Anton Corbijn (such as the cover art for U2's Joshua Tree), glamorous, high fashion shots of the inimitable Grace Jones snapped by David Corio, kinetic shots of Elton John performing acrobatic-like stunts while playing  the piano at a 1973 concert in London, and pictures of Kurt Cobain during and after a live performance from Ian Tilton and Charles Peterson (who released the classic Nirvana photo book, Touch Me, I'm Sick), among many, many other highlights.

What makes these photos so phenomenal is how they capture the energy of a singular moment (a concert, a rehearsal, a tour bus, etc.) and the fashions and aesthetic norms of various eras (from The Clash's punk look to Bob Dylan's moody, Beatnik style), how they provide a solid sense of time and place that immortalizes each of the moments captured and gives them a historical context. But most of all, there's a sense of intimacy in these photos — they don't feel staged (even when the artists are clearly posing) but, rather, there seems to be a symbiotic relationship between performer and photographer, between the lens and the object before it. Take, for example, Ian Tilton's photo of Kurt Cobain weeping backstage after a dynamic, physically exhausting set — sitting down, clutching his hair with his hand, his face distorted and his body slouched over, we the viewer get a sense of the turmoil inside Cobain's soul.

Photo historian Gail Buckland edited the ambitious project, providing insightful commentary about each photographer and his/her style, accomplishments, and contributions to the music photography realm, along with quotes from each about the experience of shooting these stars. Among the hundreds of names in the book, you'll find Annie Leibovitz, Albert Watson, Jim Marshall, Bob Gruen, Pennie Smith and David LaChapelle. It's the type of book you'll want to keep forever, as dear as your very own family photo album.

Never Make The Same Mistake Twice: Lessons On Love And Life Learned The Hard Way by Nene Leakes With Denene Millner, $16.49. Visit Amazon.com

Nene may not be able to run the lives of her Real Housewives of Atlanta cast mates, but if there's one thing that woman knows how to run it's her darned mouth. And apparently, she needed another 228 pages to do so. Nene's fans will be relish her memoir's conversational tone which makes it sound like Nene is right there with you, flailing her arms, rolling her eyes, and adding all sorts of dramatics. From the "honey" and "child" colloquialisms to the usage of the third person ("Nene being genuine and real" or "plain ol' fabulous Nene"), the book is written in such a way that it feels like Nene just spoke into a tape recorder for hours and then had her co-writer, Denene Millner, edit the transcript and shape it into a cohesive (or semi cohesive) piece of work. If you're expecting an insightful piece of work, you'll be gravely disappointed but if you just want more of Nene putting on her I'm-a-star persona, then you'll appreciate this book.

But, while it's billed as a memoir and mentions of the book on RHOA suggested that it would contain some very personal information about Nene, the book reveals very little. In fact, 99% of what's in the book has been discussed in the show: Nene searching for her biological dad, her strained relationship with Kim (she actually devotes a whole chapter to Kim which is uncanny given that it's supposed to be Nene's memoir), etc. The biggest revelation is that she was, in fact, a stripper prior to marrying Gregg — and even when exposing this secret, Nene is guarded and shares only a minimal amount of detail. In the end, you don't have any more solid a take on who Nene is, what drives her (beyond the desire for fame), what her talents are (if any), or what makes her tick. But, then again, we don't usually watch RHOA for philosophical discussions, right?

I Am The New Black by Tracy Morgan, $13.50. Visit Amazon.com

Celebrity memoirs tend to be fluff — they might entertain us with their wit or show off some adorable family photos but rarely do they ever dig deep and share the most trying times of their lives, the formative experiences that both haunt them and strengthen them. And to so so at the height of their popularity is particularly taboo. But Tracy Morgan could care less about public image or any rules regarding celebrity priority. The brother had a story to tell, his story to tell, and he did so masterfully. Two years in the making, I Am The New Black takes us from Morgan's childhood in Brooklyn to his adolescent years in the Bronx, his brief stint as a hustler, his many odd jobs, his romance with his ex-wife and the mother of his children, his entry into the comedy world and his gradual ascent therein, his divorce, his problems with alcohol and diabetes, and much more.

Morgan's story is inspirational — a true rags to riches tale set in the most unlikely of places — but what makes the memoir so poignant is his willingness to show vulnerability, to manifest the pain he felt over his father's death (a Vietnam vet, Morgan's dad battled a heroin problem for many years and, after he'd fully recovered, came to find out he'd contracted AIDS), over his estranged relationship with his mother, and over his divorce. And Morgan never portrays himself as a victim, nor does he indulge in any pity parties. Instead, he's strikingly honest about so many pivotal moments in his life — accepting full responsibility for his part in any uncomfortable situations or failed relationships, and bravely expressing his point of view. Morgan's anger, frustration, joy, and passion, then are all palpable in the book.

It's unfair to assume that Tracy Morgan acts, thinks, or in any way resembles his 30 Rock character or to infer that, since he's a comedian, his life must have always been carefree and easy. What Morgan conveys, instead, is that comedians (himself included) often resort to humor as a coping mechanism, a way to rise above the most dire of situations. And, with all his accomplishments and accolades, the strategy has certainly paid off. If you're a Tracy Morgan fan, this is a must-read.