SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Bijules Sample Sale Today At Gilt.com!

Starting today at noon, fans of jewelry designer Jules Kim's edgy and adventurous Bijules line will have a chance to score some rare pieces at a fraction of their original price thanks to an exclusive sale hosted by beloved sample sale site Gilt.com. Though I can't reveal all the pieces that will be on sale (have to leave you ladies with at least a hint of suspense!), here are a few of choice picks which the foxy Miss Kim shared with me.

Pictured above, you'll find images of some marquee pieces from the Bijules Scream and Spirit Spring 2010 collection: the Bone Bar Ring (as shown at top), the Boning Earrings (second from top), and the Bony Knuckle Ring (third from top). These particular pieces are clearly all inspired by the shape of human/animal bones, mimicking the long and thin shaft of the diaphysis and the ridges and contours along the articular extremities. The Bony Knuckle Ring, for example, seems to mimic the structural form of the femur (or thigh bone), while the Boning Earrings resemble the shape of the fibula bone (located below the knee and next to the tibia bone). By centering on a basic components of human/animal anatomy, Kim's collection speaks to the innate artistry of vertebrate beings, the mystery and majesty found in nature.

And, of course, the bone motifs have a certain eerie, dark quality to them, which also adds to the collection's allure. In many ways, the collection underlines all the reasons why I love Bijules jewelry. Unlike other lines that focus on the dainty or the traditionally pretty, Bijules bucks convention, drawing inspiration from the most unexpected of places and fearlessly exploring the taboo and the forbidden. It's Kim's ability to take the outlandish, odd, or even creepy and transform it into something beautiful that I find so remarkable.

And that, my friends, is why I'll be logging on to Gilt eagerly when noon rolls around. Are you in?

To check out the sale, visit Gilt.com

Flying Down To Rio With SOBRAL Jewelry

 

Those of you who payed close attention to our holiday gift guide round-ups might remember spotting some  ultra funky Harvey bangle bracelets from SOBRAL's Flash Gordon collection, which features pieces made of recycled computer boards and keyboard keys. I remember being so smitten with the bracelets that I yearned to learn more about the SOBRAL line — and the man behind the exquisite designs, which feel like carnival in Brazil with their vibrant pops of color and their playful luminosity. Some of the pieces feel like ice cubes floating atop a sea of confetti, while others have the vibe of exciting street art with their mosaic-like motifs.

The line's founder, Rio de Janeiro native Carlos Sobral, began his career in the 1960s, when he started making jewelry from metal corroded with acid. But since the material was popular among other designers of the era, Sobral found himself looking for a more unique medium through which to express his artistic vision. When he watched Argentinian artists working with resin at a craft fair in Cabo Frio, he was beyond intrigued — and, after some serious research, he finally began to experiment with the material. It soon became his medium of choice. "Resin is like a chameleon," Sobral says. "It mimics every possible color and material."

In 1992, Sobral started designing jewelry under his own name and selling it wholesale. Still, he didn't really create some serious buzz until he opened his first store at Rio’s International Airport in 2000. By 2003, he'd opened his first store in Europe, located on the Isle Saint Louis in Paris.  Five years later, Karl Lagerfeld approached enlisted his help to design a jewelry line, which placed Sobral at the center of the couture universe. Soon thereafter, he opened his first U.S. store in New York City's Soho nabe — and the City That Never Sleeps certainly didn't sleep on this promising designer.

Pictured here are some of Sobral's exciting resin jewelry pieces. Pieces like the Clarissa earrings, which feature multi-colored horizontal stripes along the earrings' rectangular shape, constitute part of Sobral's famed Pop Art collection, which the designer cites as one of his all-time favorites. Sobral says, "The Pop Art collection is very vibrant and captures the light spirit of the Cariocas — those of us who have the pleasure of living in Rio. I wasn’t surprised when Forbes magazine named Rio de Janeiro the 'Happiest City in the World' in 2009, and I think the Pop Art collection captures that spirit."

Aside from the Pop Art collection, one of my favorites is the Art Deco collection, which feature a black-as-night backdrop covered with mosaic-like slithers of vibrant colors. From the Art Deco Stick Necklace pictured at top to the Art Deco Bangle Bracelets (pictured third below), these lively pieces exude a whimsical charm while maintaining their artful sophistication. Another one of my top picks: the Anita Malfatti bracelet, pictured third from top, which features watercolor-like strokes of samba-ready color.

Carlos Sobral's designs are heavily influenced by the work of Austrian painter and architect Friedrich Hundertwasser, Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, and Spanish Catalan painter, sculptor, and ceramist Joan Miró. And, of course, everything he creates is informed by his surroundings in Brazil. "Mário de Andrade, a great Brazilian, used to say that our ancestors were anthropophagic Indians (cannibals)," he says. "The Brazilian culture “eats” everything it encounters — our artistic expressions have absorbed a little bit of every cultural heritage and spiced it up with a Brazilian twist."

And we, of course, can feast on the Sobral line and enjoy all of its flavors.

Pictured above: Art Deco Stick Necklace, $120; Cause & Effect Nimbus Bracelet, $82; Anita Malfani Bracelet, $88; and Black Retroz Ancora Earrings, $48. All available at SobralUSA.com

Pictured below: Flash Gordon Queen Necklace Copper, $160; Pop Art Clarissa Earrings, $40; Art Deco Bangle Bracelet, $65; and Cause & Effect Convex Ring, $48. All available at SobralUSA.com

 

Soar Into Spring With Scosha's "Free Bird" Bracelet

Spring fever is practically airborne, as we all anxiously await the coming of the season most closely associated with new beginnings and replenished hope. The folks at SCOSHA clearly share the sentiment and so, as a celebratory gift, they're taking 50% off the retail price of their "Free Bird" bracelet.

The wrap bracelet measures 7" in height features braided lilac and burnt orange silk and linen strands, with 10k yellow gold bird charms measuring 10mm, and 10k yellow gold button clasps etched with the words "Love" and "Evolve."

Every time I look at it, Nelly Furtado's "I'm Like A Bird" echoes inside my head. Not a bad way to foray into spring, right?

SCOSHA "Free Bird" Bracelet, $59 (from $119). The offer is valid through the end of March at Scosha.com

Win Urban Decay's "Alice in Wonderland" Book Of Shadows AND A Tom Binns for Disney "Roses Are Red" Necklace

 

I know some of you ladies were drooling over the Tom Binns for Disney Alice in Wonderland necklaces and earrings showcased in Sicka's tribute to Alice in Wonderland style and beauty. But, of course, some of the price tags seemed a bit daunting. Well, get this: Urban Decay is holding a contest whereby fans can enter to win the Tom Binns for Disney Alice in Wonderland "Roses Are Red" necklace pictured above (which retails for $875 and is available at select Macy's stores) as well as Urban Decay's Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows (which is sold out everywhere).

The "Roses Are Red" necklace features layered hematite chains, ruby red pearls, light amethyst, gold safety pin accents, and a keyhole charm offering a peek at a rose-filled garden. Urban Decay's Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows, meanwhile, features a pop-up mushroom forest illustration designed alongside Tim Burton himself and includes 16 of UD's bestselling eyeshadow shades renamed so as to fit with the Wonderland theme. I'm completely in love with this set, so I encourage you not to miss out on an opportunity to get one (and for free, at that!)

In addition to this grand prize, 16 runner-up contestants will win UD's Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows. The contest ends at 11:59 PST on March 25th. Visit UrbanDecay.com to enter.

Macy's New Costume Jewelry And Accessories Line Mstylelab

This spring, Macy's is hosting a whole different kind of parade, as it ushers four new fashion brands and two new home decor lines into its stores. Among the four exclusive new fashion brands, you'll find mstylelab, a jewelry and accessories brand catering to a young, trend-focused clientele. The line will hit 150 Macy's stores nationwide in April and will feature pieces priced between $6 and $40.

Though we won't get to see the full debut line until spring, pictured here are some of the key pieces in the introductory collection, which touches upon some of the biggest fashion trends for the season. At top, you'll find the "Wish You Were Here" necklace and headband, both of which include red-and-white striped fabric for a nautical theme and black rosettes accentuated with zipper detailing for a punk edge. Below, meanwhile, you'll find the "Gypsy Rose" bangle bracelet set and charm bib necklace, which include turquoise stone and enamel plating, along with brass-toned leaf and disc charms, for a free-spirited, bohemian chic vibe. 

Curious to see the rest of the pieces in the debut line? Mark your calendar!

 

mstylelab Wish You Were Here Striped Fabric Necklace, $40; mstylelab Wish You Were Here Headband, $20; mstylelab Gypsy Rose Bangles, $30; and mstylelab Gypsy Rose Disc and Leaves Necklace, $30. Available at 150 Macy's stores in April.

Curioser and Curioser "Alice In Wonderland" Beauty and Style

With only two days remaining until the opening of Tim Burton's big screen adaptation of Lewis Carroll's classic Alice's Adventures in Wonderland tale, everyone isn't just ready to fall down the rabbit hole — they're itching to jump in it! If you've got white rabbits, hungry caterpillars, and mad hatters on the brain, you'll appreciate these pieces, which give a nod to these beloved characters and their loopy world. From necklaces and nail lacquers produced in a limited-run to coincide with the film's release to beauty goodies that will remind you of these iconic characters, here's a peek through our very own looking glass.

Tom Binns for Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland Necklace, $1000. Available at select Macy's stores.

Kudos to Disney Couture for enlisting designer Tom Binns to designs its bold, statement-making collection of Alice in Wonderland-themed jewelry. Binns' punk-meets-couture aesthetic, combined with the vivid colors and the breadth of imagery found in the classic tale, make for a blissful style marriage. The pieces range from $50 to $1,000 and are available at various retailers (depending on the style in question). The necklace pictured above, with its bulbous, candy apple-red heart charms, interwoven gunmetal-colored chain strands, and safety pin accents, makes me  feel like playing croquet and shouting "Off with her head!" in  a silly cartoon voice.

OPI Alice in Wonderland Nail Lacquers, $6.75 each or $9.35 for Mini Nail Lacquer Pack. Available at Amazon.com

Nail polish fiends have been swooning over this limited-edition collection by O.P.I, which features four storybook-read shades (all with very clever, pun-based names): Off With Her Head, a creamy red pepper color that has a hint of orange; Mad As Hatter, a multi-colored glitter polish with silver, purple, and green tones; Absolutely Alice, an ultra glittery, cobalt blue blue shade; and Thanks So Muchness!, a raspberry sorbet red with a metallic finish.

Junk Food "Alice in Wonderland Teacup" T-Shirt, $36. Visit TeeShirtsRock.com

We all know how much Alice enjoyed that tea party! Celebrate one of the film's classic scenes with this heather gray Junk Food t-shirt, which features an image of Alice dipping some tea and holding a saucer while wearing her classic ensemble: a baby blue, puff-sleeved dress with rounded white lapels and a white white apron detail.

NYX Cosmetics Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencil, $3 each. Visit NonPareilBoutique.com

Whether it's captured an animated Disney movie or a goth-flavored Tim Burton extravaganza, there's no denying that Wonderland is a magical yet psychotropic universe, with colors so bright and objects so sharp that they practically perform a sensory attack on the beholder (and yet one that you actually enjoy!). Add a bit of that hallucinogenic, otherworldly feel with NYX's Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils, which are available in a bevy of colors including: Euphoria, a peachy pink; Kiwi, a lime green with an iridescent acid yellow tint; Chakra, an '80s-esque hot pink; and Peridot, a deep emerald green. Unlike loose glitters, these allow for mess-free, precise application, which makes them all the more lovable.

Here are some swatches of the following shades (from top to bottom): Euphoria, Chakra, Kiwi, and Peridot.

 

Urban Decay Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows, $50. Available at select Sephora locations. Visit UrbanDecay.com so you'll be notified when a new shipment arrives!

Urban Decay's latest masterpiece has been selling out faster than Jay-Z concert tickets. In fact, the first bath of Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows palettes sold out in a matter of hours! Fortunately, Urban Decay has been rolling out more shipments so eager fans can still get a hold of this one-of-a-kind collection (just make sure to visit the Urban Decay site listed above and leave your e-mail addy, so they can contact you as soon as they have some in stock). The AIW Book of Shadows features 16 eye shadows that feature more of a goth Victorian edge, in keeping with Burton's interpretation of Carroll's world. Plus, the box itself is a wonderful keepsake as it features artwork designed by Burton himself — we're talking illustrations all along the mirror and, best of all, pop-up art along the inner fold, with towering giant mushrooms and Alice's dainty figure all sprouting up in 3D grandeur.

The shades offered are: Underland, a blackened eggplant purple; Alice, a cobalt blue similar to UD's Jinx shade; Oraculum, which has a coppery bronze Half Baked-ish feel; Queen, a red-violet shade (it resembles the "Fishnet" shade, but it's deeper and has more deep raspberry tones mixed in); Chessur, a copper-meets-rose-gold hue; White Rabbit, a snowy white with a greenish undertone; Wonderland, a light, tarnished bronze hue with acid green tones; Curioser, a lilac color that resembles UD's Ecstasy shade; Muchness, a punchy peachy color; Mushroom, an earthy black-brown with purple undertones; Midnight Tea Party, a pale antique gold hue that resembles Midnight Cowboy Rides Agai ; Vorpal, a deep steely color, similar to their Gunmetal shade; Absolem, a dark forest green; Drink Me, Eat Me, a pink shade with antique rose tones; Mad Hatter, a shimmering dirt brown color; and Jabberwocky, a deep asphalt black similar to the line's Perversion shade.  The set also includes a trave-sized tube of Urban Decay's best-selling Eyeshadow Primer Potion, and two 24/7 Eye Pencils Glide-On Eye Pencils in Flipside (a deep turquoise) and Zero (a deep black hue).

NARS Roman Holiday Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, $24. Visit Sephora.com

Want your lips to exude that girlish innocence and playful spirit we associate with Alice? Then check out NARS' Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Roman Holiday, a carnation pink hue that's sophisticated but fresh and youthful.

Here's what the shade looks like on the skin:

TOUS Mirror Earrings, $199. Visit Tous.com

Part of TOUS' Mirror collection, these burnished sterling silver drop earrings have that vintage quality that reminds you of the White Rabbit's beloved pocket watch in the animated Disney version of Alice in Wonderland. And that bow detail on the top? It screams Alice!

Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Beauty in Blues, $7.99. Available at mass food and drug retailers. Visit Walgreens.com

As soon as you hear the name "Alice," you're likely to picture her sweet baby blue blouse dress, with its puffed sleeves and full, flirty skirt, and maybe even the slightly darker blue ribbon she wore around her golden locks and tied into a precious ribbon. This new Milani eyeshadow palette, with its gradient range of blues, would make little Alice's eyes sparkle with curiosity and delight.

Here's what the shades look like on the skin, starting with the deepest shade (pictured at top) and working towards the lightest shade (pictured at bottom):

Tom Binns for Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland Tea Party Charm Chandelier Earrings, $60. Visit Bloomingdales.com

Here's a perfect example of a more affordable design from the Tom Binns for Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland collection. These chandelier earrings feature goldtone metal chain strands of varying lengths with a cupcake charm at the very top. Yummy, right?

The Extras Glitter Bow Barrette, $8. Visit Karmaloop.com

No Alice in Wonderland ensemble would be complete without the requisite hair bow. This glitter bow barrette gives Alice's choice accessory a funky twist. Sure, it's pink instead of Alice's Blue, and it has a bit of a disco vibe to it, but Wonderland has always been a place that welcomes new interpretations, right?

Alice Charmed Link Bib Necklace, $15. Visit ShoptheLook.net

This silver-toned metal bib necklace, with its slightly interlocking loops and its whimsical rabbit, heart, and "A" charms, fuses together whimsical Wonderland motifs with a more hard-edged medieval armor-esque attitude.

Black Opal Dual Lip Gloss in Screen Gems, $5.99. Available at mass chain food and drug retailers.

This dual-ended lip gloss from Black Opal conjures up images of the Cheshire Cat's groovy striped fur. One end features a deep Tyrian purple, like the color favored by Byzantine emperors, while the other end features a psychedelic magenta-violet shade. Both hues pack plenty of shimmer, giving them this cool, holographic effect.

Check out this swatch:

 

Sephora by OPI "It's Bouquet With Me" Nail Lacquer, $9. Visit Sephora.com

Part of the new Sephora by O.P.I "Modern Flowers" collection of nail lacquers, It's Bouquet With Me features the type of purple Ziggy Stardust-inspired and confetti-like effect that would make the Cheshire Cat smile. The shade consists of a clear base with a violet tinge, and tons of purple and lilac glitter atop it. What's interesting about this nail lacquer is that the glitter is deposited on the nail very gradually, so you can have it be as Studio 54-ready as you want. The picture below shows what the color looks like after 4 coats (and I easily could've kept on layering more on top, as it was nowhere near thick or clumpy).

Tom Binns for Disney Couture Keyhole Ring, $49.95. Visit DisneyStore.com

This adjustable keyhole-shaped ring will pique anybody's curiosity, especially since it lets us in on a shadowy, gloomy landscape with luscious blush pink roses adding a hint of color to the scenery.

Junk Food Alice Chases the White Rabbit T-shirt, $25.95. Visit MyTeeSpot.com

I love how the illustration on this Junk Food T-shirt has a slightly surreal feel to it, with the lines being a bit blurred and there being a pink halo surrounding Alice's figure.

Alice in Wonderland Card Suite Bangle, $12. Visit ShoptheLook.net

To coincide with the blockbuster's release, costume jewelry site Shop The Look unveiled a small collection of affordable pieces inspired by the film without referencing specific characters in an overt manner. This particular bangle, for example, features black spades, red clovers, red hearts, and other playing card suits which, while in keeping with the Queen of Hearts' kingdom, also transcend it.

 

Uniqlo x Disney Alice in Wonderland Tunic, $15.50. Available at Uniqlo stores.

This soft purple tee, with its empire waistline cut and slightly puffed sleeves, suggests a girlish innocence, while the printed illustration pays homage to some of the most beloved AIW characters: from the Cheshire Cat to the White Rabbit and Tweedledee and Tweedledum.

 

NYX Cosmetics Single Eyeshadows in Morocco, White Pearl, and Maui, $5 each. Visit NYXCosmetics.com

By now, you know I love me some NYX Cosmetics -- their makeup is extremely affordable, the textures are silky, and the colors are potent and diverse. Check out these three shades, which capture the Alice in Wonderland spirit perfectly: from the shimmering, sinister purple of the Morocco shade, to the pearlescent ivory of White Pearl and the teal-infused, tropical-flavored Maui.

Check out swatches of (from top to bottom) Morocco, White Pearl, and Maui:

Tom Binns for Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland Red Queen Earrings, $100. Available at select Macy's stores and at Karmaloop.com

If the bib necklace pictures at top feels a bit too daring or over-the-top for your taste, then I'd suggest checking out the Red Queen earrings, which feature the same materials but are worked into an edgy yet slightly more subdued design.

Robindira Unsworth Looking Glass Disc Pendant, $225. Visit Robindira.com

Forget "mirror, mirror on the wall" -- it's all about the looking glass right now. This Robindira Unsworth 1/4-inch brushed sterling silver disc pendant features a slightly domed shape and a pearly finish, and it's framed with 22k gold vermeil around the disc's periphery.

Tom Binns for Disney Alice in Wonderland Queen Necklace, $200. Available at Karmaloop.com

The staggered metal chain strands and bulbous black heart pendant give this necklace a cascading effect, like the hearts are trickling down in a fluid motion. Picture wearing this with a simple black dress -- you'll be a heart-wearing heartbreaker!

 

Freestyle 20x10 Special Edition Shark Watch -- Prime Time

Like clockwork for the next ten months, Freestyle USA will be unveiling a series of limited-edition Shark watches, each in a color scheme commemorating the notable events taking place during the month of release. Only 500 pieces of each 20x10 Special Edition Shark Watch will be released, and each will feature all the standard features: day, month and time display, two alarms, a stopwatch with split screen function, a countdown heat timer, a night vision backlight display, and water resistance up to 100 meters.

The introductory watch, introduced earlier this month, features a bright yellow and blue band, a green rubber casing along the dial, and another red square along the perimeter of that green square casing. I'm still speculating about all the different colors and why they were selected. I'm assuming the red is a reference to Valentine's Day (or maybe National Wear Red Day on Feb. 5th), and I'm guessing the blue references winter sports (and maybe even the Winter Olympics). As for the green, it might perhaps be a nod to Super Bowl (as in green football fields), and the yellow could maybe evening primrose, since some say the evening primrose is the flower of choice for the month of February (though if I let my imagination roam, I start thinking it might be a reference to Mardi Gras since yellow, green and purple tend to abound in decorations for the festival).

I can't wait to overanalyze the March edition!

Freestyle 20x10 Special Edition Shark Watch, $60. Visit FreestyleUSA.com for a list of retailers.

Shakira Debuts New T-Shirt And Bracelet for Hard Rock

Pint-sized, hip-swiveling Colombian pop star Shakira has collaborated with Hard Rock for the second time to design two new items, the Shakira Artist Spotlight T-shirt and the Shakira Artist Spotlight Bracelet, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Shaki's Pies Descalzos foundation.

Pictured above you'll find an image of the bracelet, which features faceted glass beads, Chakira beads in turquoise, purple, and pink hues, and zinc alloy hardware, with the words "Shakira" and "Pies Descalzos" etched along the silver-toned edges. All of the proceeds from the sale of the bracelet will benefit Pies Descalzos, the NGO Shaki created in 1997 to give impoverished children in Colombia access to educational opportunities.

The Shakira Artist Spotlight T-Shirt, meanwhile, was designed by the artist herself and features several references to her music catalog and to the iconography she has used throughout the years. In the backdrop, there's a purple heart (often associated with bravery), with studs along the shape's edges. Atop the heart, running vertically along its center, there's an illustration of an electric guitar, Shaki's prized instrument. Its positioning along the center of the heart could perhaps allude to music being her biggest passion, which would be further reinforced by the guitar's halo-like golden gleam. Light purple angel wings spread out from either side of the guitar, perhaps referencing the transcendental power of music. Propped by the base of the guitar, on the corners of an amp bearing Shakira's name, you'll notice two cherubs slouched over in a blissful sleep. The cherubs remind me of the cover art for Shakira's Fijación Oralalbum, in which the singer holds an apple in one hand while leaning against a tree in an Eden-like garden, a cherub-like baby hovering nearby. The angels, then, could reference the album's iconic artwork, as well as Shakira's protective, motherly approach to the children in her  Pies Descalzos foundation.Lastly, you'll notice that lush pink flowers surround the amp, with some of the petals  grazing the bottom of the children's feet. Again, this could be a reference to the garden motifs in so many scared scriptures and Shakira's interest in theology and philosophy, which has been cleverly expressed in many of her Spanish-language songs.

Generally speaking, I tend to associate Hard Rock tees with tourists and not stylish city slickers (to me, the tees are kind of like Mickey Mouse earns that I feel like the main consumers are tourists visiting these establishments), but I have to say Shakira's design is among the nicest I've seen in quite some time.

Shakira Artist Spotlight T-Shirt, $26; Shakira Artist Spotlight Bracelet, $12. Visit HardRock.com

Valentine's Day Gift Guide Part 4 -- Love And Happiness

Want to put a little love in a gal's heart for Valentine's Day? Don't distress. Whether she's a shoe fanatic, a fragrance phenom, or a jewelry junkie, here are some flirty and fabulous finds to make her heart go pitter-patter.

Badgley Mischka Women's Renee T-Strap Sandal, $200. Visit Endless.com

Look at the ruffled petal running length-wise from angle to toe on these Badgley Mischka's Renee T-Strap Sandals -- now that's a floral bouquet that will live forever (okay, maybe not forever, but way longer than anything picked from a garden!).

Bing Bang by Anna Shefield "Heart & Locket" Charm Bracelet, $195. Visit BingBangNYC.com

This Bing Bang bracelet makes heart motifs look edgy and slightly weathered thanks to the mixture of materials: rose gold and yellow gold-plated heart charms and lockets, sterling silver crescent moons, and brass heart outlines

CH by Carolina Herrera Purse Spray, $70. Visit Nordstrom.com

Venezuelan fashion designer Carolina Herrera is a genius — whether she's tackling fashion or fragrance, she manages to effortlessly invoke a feeling of subtle sexiness and sophistication. This floral oriental scent was among my favorite releases in 2009 and now it's available in purse spray form, so it can always be within your reach!

Scosha NYC 10K Yellow Gold and Sterling Silver Necklace With Love Shield, Bird and Leaf Charms, $199; Scosha NYC Sterling Silver Necklace With a 12mm Solid Heart Pendant With Six 1mm Diamonds and one 2.3mm ruby stone, $229. Visit ScoshaNYC.com

There's an alluring ruggedness to these necklaces — from the asymmetrical shape of the solid heart pendant to the lumpy, dissheveled look of the hammered sterling silver shield disc bearing the word "Love."

Luxe Link "Juliet Swarovski" Bag Holder, $67. Visit LuxeLink.com

Hate going to a restaurant or cafe and not being able to hang your purse on the back of your chair? Then be as ready as a former Girl Scout with a Luxe Link bag holder, which features a chain link that unfolds into a sturdy purse hook. All you have to do is place the disc on the edge of a table (no matter if it's a glass, metal, ceramic, or wooden surface), unfurl the chain, and hang your bag from it. Since it's gravity that's holding the hook to the table, you won't have to worry about it slipping off. The Luxe Links are available ina  vast variety of designs, including this number with a red heart shape made of Swarovski crystals.

Perrelet Diamond Flower Rare Prestige Edition Watch, Price Available Upon Request. Visit Perrelet.com for more information.

With a watch this gorgeous, no woman has an excuse for being late — well, that is, unless she's so hypnotized by her watch's beauty that she loses herself (and loses track of time) as a result. Perrelet's Diamond Flower watch features a golden lotus flower motif on the deep red dial, with precious stones all along the flower's outline. Diamonds also adorn the gold bezel for an extra dose of elegance.

Linda & Harriett Limited Edition Valentine's Day Goodie Bag, $26. Visit LindaAndHarriett.com

Remember the "Heartgrams" we got in junior high? Well, with this Linda & Harriett set, you can write love notes any time you please (and they won't  have the unwanted cheesiness factor of heart-shaped construction paper). The limited edition goodie bag includes a note pad, pencil, a box of note cards, and a reusable canvas bag with a pink heart motif.

Nivea "Kiss of Flavor" Cherry Tinted Lip Care, $2.49; Nivea "Kiss of Shine" Pink Glossy Lip Care, $3.29; and Nivea "Kiss of Shimmer" Pearly Shimmer Lip Care, $2.49. Visit Drugstore.com

Kissable lips are an absolute necessity on Valentine's Day, and Nivea makes achieving a sumptuous pout a cinch with its array of flavorful balms, shimmering tints, and lip glosses. To hydrate the lips and add just a touch of color, opt for the Kiss of Flavor — a lip balm available in scents like cherry and passionfruit (my fave). If you're hoping for ultra glossy lips, pick up Nivea's Kiss of Shine, a lip gloss that manages to moisturize while also providing the necessary shine (all without the pesky stickiness we associate with most drugstore glosses). For a subtle look, just apply some lipliner or a nude lipstick and top it off with the Kiss of Shine. Lastly, if you want just a tinge of shimmer, the Kiss of Shimmer, with its pearly particles, is your best bet.

Retro Super Future "Super Flat Top" Sunglasses, €94,00. Visit RetroSuperFuture.com

Red frames are always fun, but the flat top of these shades makes them unique and gives them even more of a playful retro flavor.

 

Links of London Flutter & Wow Heart With Red Garnet Bracelet, $295. Visit LinksOfLondon.com 

For Valentine's Day 2010, Links of London expanded it Flutter & Wow collection, adding some seriously edgy sterling silver pieces with red garnet details. The collection includes cage-like, sterling silver heart charms with intricate cut-outs, as well as asymmetrical, faceted silver heart shapes (like the one pictured above), and interlocking heart charms. The red garnet stones, meanwhile, reference the intense passion we associate with love.

Halle by Halle Berry Pure Orchid 1 oz. Eau de Parfum, $28. Available at Sears stores and Sears.com

This sensual floral fragrance, which just launched this month, is the second fragrance championed by Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry. The fragrance was created by perfumers Rodrigo Flores-Roux and Christophe Raynaud, and it features notes of jungle cactus flower, lemon, blackberry creme, star anise, masdevallia orchid, giant sequoia and patchouli. Though it's named "Pure Orchid," the strongest note hear is vanilla, but the florals surrounding it, make it even more feminine and sensual.

Mary Kay Limited-Edition Romantic Petals Gift Set, $32. Visit MaryKay.com

This hot pink set makes for a red hot gift, featuring a body sponge, body soufflé, shower gel, and eau de toilette spray — all boasting an intoxicating floral scent with hints of iris, orchid and gardenia.

Flirt! Rock-N-Rebel Perfume Spray, $35. Visit Kohls.com

The Veronicas were elected to be the face of this new Flirt! fragrance — and, once you smell this daring scent, which features blackberry, apple nectar, and pink grapefruit notes, you'll understand why they're such a perfect fit.

NP2 Solar Nail Lacquer, $22.50. Visit NP2Beauty.com

I'm completely smitten with Np2's nail polishes -- from their futuristic packaging to their fun colors and built-in top coat bottle (which snaps atop the base of the nail polish color). The Solar shade, a deep orange red hue, is ideal for a Valentine's Day date.

Check out how the color looks on nails:

Wondering What To Get Your Man For Valentine's Day? We Got Your Back!

Shopping for men can be a hassle — whereas most women are content with anything from flowers to jewelry, men are way more particular about their likes and dislikes. The first thing you have to do is make a mental list of all the things that excite him (Tarantino movies? Check. Hot sneakers? Check. Gold equipment? Not so much) and come up with a decent set of references to work with. If he's a hip-hop head, for example, he'll probably appreciate the sophisticated but distinctly urban flavor of the FLUD watch pictured below, and the cool-as-ice Nike Air Force 1 hi-top sneakers. If he's more of a suited-up sort, then a fancy shaving set or a slick pair of cuff links will likely make him smile. See? There IS a science to it!

Check out these great gift options -- you might just find the perfect present for your other half!

The Art of Shaving "The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave" Kit in Sandalwood Oil, $100. Visit TheArtofShaving.com

This four-piece shaving kit includes a 2 fl. oz. bottle of Pre-Shave Oil, a 5.3 oz. jar of Shaving Cream,  4 fl. oz. bottle of After-Shave Balm,  and a Pure Badger Shaving Brush. Formulated using sandalwood essential oils, these products are meant to have aromatherapy benefits and are designed for normal to dry skin.

Burberry Boxer Set, $85. Visit NeimanMarcus.com

Sick of his slightly discolored Joe Boxer briefs? Want him to wear something a bit sexier? Then give him some incentive with these classic Burberry boxer set.

Ghurka Classic Wallet, $165. Visit Ghurka.com

This chestnut leather wallet includes eight credit card slots and a bill fold, and it will fit perfectly inside any pants pocket.

David Donahue Sterling Silver Cuff Links, $150. Visit Nordstrom.com

The burgundy paisley print on these square-shaped, silver sterling cufflinks adds a stylish and unexpected touch to any suit jacket.

Nike Air Force 1 Hi Supreme in Matte Silver, $175. Visit UbiqLife.com

It's all in the details — and this matte silver gray hi-top sneaker goes from simple to simply irresistable with the addition of just a few touches such as the multi-colored outsole and the perforations in the sides and heel of the sneaker.

Skrapper "Love" Tee, $95. Visit Skrapper.net

Launched by designers William Quigley and Katherine Theofilos, Skrapper is a clothing line that focuses on the notion of fashion as wearable art. The tee pictured above, for example, not only features interesting illustrations but a seemingly hand-written message that provides the type of food for thought that made James De La Vega such a popular street artist.

FLUD "The Exchange" Watch in Black & Teal, $90. Visit Karmaloop.com

This hefty watch is truly a conversation piece with the concentric circles within the oversize dial, and the funky contrast between the turquoise and black hues.

Beats Solo HD (PRODUCT) RED Special Edition Headphones from Monster, $229.95. Available at HSN.com

On Feb. 5th, HSN launched the new Betas by Dr. Dre Solo HD (PRODUCT) RED Special Edition Headphones from Monster. The headphones will be available exclusively on HSN until March 1st, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

Radii Footwear 420 Tops, $95. Visit DrJays.com

These hi-top sneakers feature three velcro straps along the top arch of the foot and one thick strap covering the ankle area — plus, the streamlined silhouette gives this sneaker a classier, dressier feel.

Bambú T-Shirts, $45 each. Available at Nordstrom stores nationwide, as well as Bambu.com

The company known for its rolling papers has launched a new line of tees featuring vintage-flavored artwork dating back to Bambú's launch in 1764.