Holiday window inspiration with Nordstrom: home for the holidays!

Growing up in the Chicago area, a natural yearly tradition was visiting the city to look at the holiday windows.  The magic and style of the season was wrapped up with a bow in each and every window we would visit.  Each would send you to a magical world of holiday perfection.  Even still I love to visit those windows in Chicago and recently did it with my children, who I hope will remember it as fondly as I do.

Nordstrom asked me to create my perfect holiday window and being the homebody that I am I knew instantly what my inspiration would be: the home.  While I love getting fancy and hitting the town for holiday fun and family gatherings, to me the most special time of the year is the quiet moments at home with the ones I love.  Snuggling up in bed to watch a beloved classic Christmas movie, sitting by the fire by the light of the Christmas tree and reading, a night in primping and prepping to look my best for the holiday season or watching the fireworks from the comfort of my own bed on New Years Eve… this homebody loves to hunker down and create special holiday memories from the comfort of my own home.  To me the holidays means "home."

I hope you enjoy my dream Nordstrom holiday window… I sure wouldn't mind spending a night or two in it myself!

(shop the pieces: fur lavender eye mask, philosophy "glowing days" set, gold lips print, roses candle, marimekko striped bedding, gold/cream throw pillow, "hey gorgeous" throw pillow, deer print throw blanket, kai room spray, holiday champagne flutes, slippers, blue robe, striped pajamas)

Or shop the pieces below!

This post was sponsored by Nordstrom and Shopstyle. All opinions are my own. 

Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

holiday gift guides! (the classics!)

Today I've got a line up of the most classic of gifts to give this season.  There are a few things that end up under my tree year after year after year.  Books, pajamas, sweaters, hats, scarves and slippers… without fail - a recipient (or four) gets some of these every year.  These gifts are so popular to give because they are practical while still be thoughtful.  Here I rounded up the classics that you will want to give… that are still special and beautiful enough that your loved ones will love receiving them!

for the little lady:

pajamas, slippers, scarf, The Princess in Black, Gaston

for the little gentleman: 

pajamas, slippers, hat, Greenglass House, The Boundless

for her:

sleep shirt, slippers, scarf, Delicious!: A Novel, edith warton's Three Novels of New York

for him:

pajama pants, sweater, hat, The Curious Bartender: An Odyssey of Malt Bourbon & Rye Whiskies, george martin ice & fire

Or shop the gifts below…

Or you can find ALL of the gift guide picks (and more!) at Pinterest!!!

holiday gift guides! (budget friendly!)

Today I've got more holiday gift guides for you… for the aunts, nieces, bff's, babysitters, teachers or, I won't tell anyone, yourself!  For any stylish lady in your life… no matter the budget, here are 28 awesome stocking stuffers and holiday gift ideas.  Just for you - consider your holiday shopping in the bag!

(above: earrings, scarf, tea cup, socks, lip gloss, tote, journal, hat, "happy" tee)

(above: "vivez" tee, lipstick, turkish towel - a personal fave!, hat, perfume, striped tee, slippers, gold bracelet, candle, leopard coaster set)

(above: pajamas, leopard clutch, necklace, animal glassware, sweater, vest, boots, "glitter" canister, faux fur scarf)

Or shop by price below… $25 and under gifts:

$50 and under gifts:

$100 and under gifts:

what to wear to a holiday party! (holiday party dress codes de-coded)

If you haven't had a Christmas party yet this year, it's likely that you will have one to attend soon. And whether it's with the big-wigs from work, your huge extended family, your saucy and stylish wine club (I had that one last week!) or your beloved book club cronies (I have that one this weekend!) you want to look your best and have fun doing it.  Some events are more casual then others but I always say there is no reason not to bring the glam up a notch or two. It's the holidays! Time to celebrate and sparkle a little (or a lot)!

Festive-fun is perfect for your annual white elephant party with friends, the blow-out cookie exchange or the neighborhood shindig that you look forward to each year.  This outfit is a bit on the casual side but definitely festive.  Add a pair of cozy black tights if the weather is frightful and a white or black wool coat! (above: dress, necklace, wedges, lip gloss, clutch)

This simple but glamorous look is perfect for a night out on the town for a party at the best steak house or cozying up to your boss and co-workers for the yearly bash.  It's simple and full of classic pieces that you may already own! (above: dress, fur collar - or cheaper option!, pumps, blush, clutch, bracelet)

This is one of my favorite looks because it's warm and casual (hey, I hate to be cold, even whenI am celebrating!) but it's way stylish.  A gorgeous white sweater and leather pants (or another pair of black skinny pants/jeans) with some killer heels and wild earrings. It's so easy and quite festive!  Add some red lips and you are hot-to-trot! (above: pants, sweater, shoes, clutch, lips, earrings)

see you around...

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prep your wardrobe to sparkle this season!

Holiday party season is in full swing... so NOW is the time to make sure that your wardrobe will sparkle this season!  Whether it's the soire of the season, a friendly evening gathering, a night around the fire with loved ones opening presents, a cookie exchange with bff's or your after hours company party. A new little piece of sparkle in your life feels so special this time of year.  If your budget is limited, buying a new pair of earrings and some sparkly nail polish or new eye shadow is sure to brighten your holiday events. Or if you are looking for a little more try a daring gold dress or sequin skirt.  Whatever your social calendar or budget allows... have a little fun with this special time of year!  (and bonus! everything featured here is under $100... except that knockout skirt! But here is an alternate skirt under $100!)

gold dress, earrings, nail polish, jeweled sweater, skirt, bracelet, green clutch, eye shadows, lip gloss set, shoes

see you around...

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beautiful baubles...

Is it crazy that I am already starting to shift into holiday mode already? I mean I am not playing Christmas music yet... and I have been showing unbelievable restraint in starting to burn the "pine" candles (which is my absolute weakness this time of year). But I am already starting to think about holiday parties, gatherings and activities for the season. Since November is so dull and dreary... it seems to be a good distraction!

Whether it is a mountain of baubles for your yearly Christmas blow out bash or just a special pair of earrings for a quiet night of exchanging gifts with your loved ones... or my favorite: a special night with the family at the Nutcracker - a nice bauble or two will add a special feel to the holidays and the cold and dark winter as well.

Lately I have been thinking that my bauble collection needs a little sprucing up for the winter and these are a few gorgeous (and affordably priced!) pieces that would make any wardrobe sparkle a little brighter. Everything here is UNDER $50 (yay!) and sure to please...

1. opal collar necklace - would be gorgeous with a plaid shirt! 2. navy sorceress cuff bracelet 3. smokey dame bracelet 4. jeweled onyx cluster earrings 5. crystal bow cuff bracelet 6. amazonian gem bib necklace 7. glitz bar pendant necklace 8. classic pave bangle bracelet set 9. candy oval drop earrings - obsessed with these!

Which piece(s) is (are) you favorite!?

see you around...

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love is in the air!

Love is in the air as Valentine's Day approaches!  It is pretty much my number one favorite holiday... I just love all the red and pink flying around, the fun and whimsical nature of the holiday, the candy (duh!) and the excuse to love on the ones in your life (and perhaps splurge a little on yourself as well!). If there were no Valentine's Day, February would be the doldrums for sure!

Here's a fabby round up on what to get and give (hear that Mr.? wink, wink!).  And don't forget to stock up on Valentines to flatter and flutter your loved ones - and make sure they are all SWAK.

black bauble bracelet... so cute!

boyfriend merino sweater... I've had my eye on this sweater, I love the relaxed cut.

tiffany key chain... always classic!

hunter boots... seriously, when am I going to just bite the bullet on them. Red is my top pick!

gold necklace... simple and beautiful. A lovely reminder of love.

atelier mini collection... these scents are totally the creme de la creme!

heart charm bracelet... how charming!

macaron candle... mmmm!

heart DVF iPhone case... it's like carrying around a Valentine all month.

polka dot robe... very sweet!

red fleece skinnys... the next iteration of the "saturday" pant from J.Crew - in RED! LOVE!

two tone bag... I'm campaigning hard for this bad boy right now.

anchor socks... no more cold toes in bed!

Are you ready for the long weekend?

I totally am.  There will equal parts of checking things off the to-do list (love that about a long weekend) and relaxation going on.  And I'm so ready for it!  I hope you have a fun and relaxing weekend planned with plenty of time to reflect on what you are thankful for and also to show your thanks by spending time with the ones you love the most or doing the things you love most.

Watch your favorite re-runs (on tv or netflix!)... I'll be watching some Downton Abbey by the fire!

I've been slowly reading (and loving!) The Distant Hours. I highly recommend it!

These is my Words: The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine, 1881-1901 on the other hand I read in just a few days, this is a perfect snuggle-up-and-get-lost-in-the-story kind of book!

I wouldn't mind clocking some serious hours in pajamas this weekend.

A good pair of socks makes cold winter nights completely bearable.  Wouldn't you say?

Sweatshirts are so in style right now? Aren't we lucky gals? I could wear this all weekend!

Since the temps aren't going to be too cold this weekend... mocassins should be perfect for Black Friday shopping and runs to the video store.

It's officially faux fur season... try out this fun fur cowl. I've got a similar one that I'm going to be wearing very soon!

Press pot coffee or tea is perfect for lazy mornings at home. Isn't this one SO stylish? LOVE it!

Also, if you are headed out of town... don't forget to check out my weekend packing list for tips!

Also, also... I'm going to try and blog some Black Friday tips on Friday... will you be shopping? Check back if so!  AND, my 'real girls gift guide' launches on Saturday! You won't want to miss it!

Friday Eye Candy: Sequins

It never fails... this time of year I crave sequins. And I'm not all that "flashy" of a person. But any of these I would snap up in a minute!

(for shopping details... check out my Stylebook at ShopStyle)

shopping guide: {read with me}

Nothing is a better gift than a book. Books are the perfect gift for the person that has everything. They last forever and there are always new ones (and old ones!) to discover. Today I have a mix of fun new and new-again books for anyone on your shopping list.

(1)

The Sartorialist, Scott Schuman

The man of the hour (0r longer) when it comes to street style and modern fashion. This book is based on his wildly popular blog and is great for the male or female fashion conscious in your life. (Barney's $28)

(2)

Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Julia Child

The book that inspired "Julie and Julia" is a great gift for the culinates among you. If they love food and a good challenge in the kitchen... this book is for them! (Bed, Bath & Beyond, $39.99)

(3)

How to be a Gentleman

Great for any male college guys or bachelors just starting life on their own. Brook's Brothers offers a whole series on living a "gentlemanly" life. (Brooks Brothers, $28)

(4)

This is Paris, M. Sasek

There are several "This is..." books for all different cities around the world. I particularly love this one because one of my major life goals is to bring my kids to Paris (while they are still kids... and then maybe again when they are a bit older too). I love the idea of introducing my kids to new cultures and ideas and this book series is perfect for that. (Kitson, $17.95)

(5)

Sense and Sensibility, Jane Austen

The new clothbound classics by Penguin are hot, hot, hot this season! This book (and other classics with equally amazing covers) is on my Christmas wish list... well all the newly designed Penguin classics are really! This is a great gift for the curator or classic lover in your life! (Anthropologie, $20)

(6)

The Gospel According to Coco Chanel, Karen Karbo

For the Parisienne lady in your life (young or old) this fun book is the best gift! Best paired with a divine bottle of No. 5 and a Paris postcard... (Anthropologie, $19.95)

shopping guide: {merry & bright}

There is no tradition more quintessentially "Christmas" to me than the simple act of lighting a candle. They bring warmth and coziness to any space and depending on the scent you choose can perfectly set the mood for trimming the tree, opening gifts or just relaxing and savoring the Christmas season. I believe that is why this time of year a candle makes a great gift to give as well. And if you're going to give the gift of a candle... make it good! Here are a few of my favorites!

(1)

Orange Blossom

Jo Malone can do no wrong in the scent category. The orange scent is simple and perfect for any season. Great to give or receive! (Jo Malone, $35)

(2)

Sweater Sleeve Candle

This candle's scent, Brightleaf Tobacco, is described as "an intoxicating blend of Moroccan rose, clove and apricot nectar." That sounds amazing! (Anthropologie, $19.60)

(3)

Silhouette Votive

These would be a perfect hostess gift for the gal that has everything. Or a great addition to your own personal holiday decor.

(Jayson, $15, each)

(4)

MjonÄs Lanterns

Pink seems to popping up in Christmas decor lately... these adorable lanterns would seamlessly integrate some jewel tones into your holiday decor this year! (IKEA, $9.99)

(5)

Cannabis Candle

My brother raves about the scent of these candles (and about pretty much an MALIN & GOETZ product he can get his hands on). A great gift for the discerning male in your life. (MALIN & GOETZ, $48)

shopping guide: {play dress up!}

One thing everyone looks forward to this time of year is "playing" a little dress up for holiday parties or New Year's celebrations. Since there are a million things to spend money on this time of year... here is my simple solution to looking great while saving some money. My favorite way to dress up is to chose an all black outfit (skirt, top, jacket, dress pants, etc) and then accentuate with fun and bold accessories.

You likely already have black wardrobe staples in your closet and these accessories are inexpensive and will get more bang for your buck over the long haul than an expensive cocktail dress that you may only rarely wear.



Choose one or more of these items and you are set to go!

(1)

Geometric Stone Cocktail Ring

(Arden B, $12)

(2)

Metallic Bead Cuff Bracelet

(Old Navy, $8.50)

(3)

Chiffon Mesh Floral Necklace

(Forever 21, $10.80)

(4)

Sequin Stretch Belt

(Forever 21, $3.50)

(5)

Jeweled Peep-Toe Pumps

(Nine West, $59.99)

(6)

Diagonal Metallic Strip Clutch

(Express, $27.65)

(7)

Sesame Texture Coat

(Forever 21, $42.80)

because it's worth repeating...

Don't you love when the second time around is just as good as the first?

Enter this polyvore set (from a whopping year ago!)...



It's safe to say I wouldn't change a thing about these outfits. They are perfect for the current holiday season and beyond!

Stay tuned tomorrow for more holiday inspired fashion ideas!

Shopping guide: [paper goods}

(1)

Wall Calendar by Kate Spade

For the most discerning lady to receive... and for the most budget minded giver.

(Kate Spade, $18)

(2)

2010 Desktop Calendar - Chairs

For all you mid-century fans or furniture buffs. It's simple and sophisticated.

(Etsy, Story by Mia, $20)

(3)

Perpetual Calendar

I love things that are versatile... this calendar will last you all the rest of your days. The numbers were photographed in Paris (oh la la!) and there is even a how to video on how to set the calendar up. Oui, for me!

(Little Brown Pen, $49.95)

(4)

Polaroid Note Cards

I always love to have note cards around because they are perfect for a birthday, an anniversary or just a quick note to a friend. These are fun... and with 20 notecards included, they make a versatile and fun gift. They could even be fun to frame too... hmmm.

(Urban Outfitters, $14.95)

(5)

"Keep Calm" Poster

If you have a niece, nephew, cousin, brother or aunt four times removed that doesn't have one of these posters yet... well, pick one up for them! These posters are fun, quirky and come in every color. Truly a gift for any person! And no, I don't think they are over-used. Who doesn't need this reminder?

(Etsy, Pressureless, $20, 16 x 20)

shopping guide: {family cold weather wear}

This time of year you and your family can never have enough cold weather wear! That is at least, here in the 'great North'! But I have found because of this that they also make for great gifts for the whole family. It never fails that mid-season a glove goes missing, your child's hat disappears in the snow fort not to be found until spring or you thought you could brave without a hat... but you can't. And as far as gifts go, the price point can't be beat! And just think of how warm your loved one will feel... all because of you! So practically, cold weather wear is about as value-based as it gets!

(1)

Women's: Rugby Stripe Circular Scarf, American Eagle, $24.50

(2)

Men's: Convertible Gloves, Urban Outfitters $18

(3)

Boy's: Bright Stripe Trapper, American Eagle, $19.50

(4)

Women's: Crochet Floral Scarf, Tilly's, $14.99

(5)

Men's: Marled Striped Scarf, Gap, $24.50

(6)

Girl's: Pro-Fleece Chevron Trapper, Gap, $12.50

TOMS!

Here is the post where I proclaim my love for TOMS, once again! But let's seriously get serious for a minute: If there is one thing that would warm my heart this holiday is that my readers would think critically about the gifts they buy and make them count. What do I mean by this? Well, Christmas is such a "plastic" holiday, and I am not just talking about your credit card. A few Barbies under the tree may not harm too much. But this year, I am personally going to do more to make less plastic and junk under our tree. Especially as a mom to young kids.

Enter TOMS. Wouldn't it be great to have your kids open a new pair of adorable shoes on Christmas morning... knowing that some shoe-less child across the world will do the same because of you?

I am contemplating these styles for my kiddos this year:


Herringbone Sparkle Mary Jane Tiny TOMS, $34



Olive/Grey Camo Tiny TOMS, $34


And you never know... Santa may have a pair of these glorious glittered TOMS waiting for me under the tree... a gal can dream, right!?!?

shopping guide: {inspired holidays}

When it comes to the Christmas season I love to decorate my home in a more eclectic mix of items. Here are some really fun pieces to add some fun and whimsy to your holiday decor this year!

(1)

Recycled Paper Garland

I just adore garland... with all it's whimsy and fun! This would look great on my Christmas tree or on my mantle for the holidays. And I love that it is made with recycled hymnal paper! (Etsy, Christina Marie, $16 for 10 feet)

(2)

Pocket Peeper Holiday Stocking

This would be adorable for any little girl to find stuffed with goodies on Christmas morning! I can imagine a lot of joy while unpacking this stocking and hanging it each year! (Etsy, Red Marionette, $32)

(3)

"Do Not Open Until Christmas" Gift Tags

How cute are these for the kids... and adults? I could see them being espeically "useful" for those gifts you have to send to out of towners! Santa is watching! (Etsy, Auntie's Card Shop, $3.50 for set of 8)

(4)

Blue Bird Nest Ornament

I collect "feathered friends" for my Christmas tree and I am pretty sure that this guy would make a beautiful addition. So adorable! This etsy seller has a ton more amazingly inspired items! (Etsy, Slvilov's Shop, $18)

shopping guide: {inspired baby}

(1)

Suki Plush Doll

This adorable doll bucks the trends of plastic dolls with plastic parts. I love her chic little outfit and Old Navy actually carries clothing for your little girl to compliment her dolls outfit! Adorable! (Old Navy, $12.50)

(2)

Heirloom Number & Letter Blocks

Blocks like these will stay in the family for a long time... lovingly made and adorable for a boy or girl. These would make a great stocking stuffer! (Etsy, Lily and Lou, $32)

(3)

Personalized Music Box

I adore this personalized music box... babies have a penchant for tinkling music. Mine did at least... this would be a great little song box for nap time or while rocking your baby. I love that you can personalize it with your child's name and birthday as well. It also comes in blue and green. (Giggle, $60)

(4)

Lambswool Baby Blue Elephant

This plush elephant is soft and sweet. Perfect for a first little "lovie" for a little boy. (Etsy, ButterCupBloom, $28)

shopping guide: {season's greetings}

One of my favorite "tasks" of the holiday season is choosing a Christmas card to send out to friends and families (the photo shoot... trying to get all four of us to smile or at least look at the camera, that is another story!) Here are some gorgeous cards that will be sure to put smiles on the faces of your recipients... if they at least don't include the most perfect smiles of your family!

(1)

"Merry Christmas" Card 5 x 7, Etsy, TypeTypeType

(10 cards/envelopes, $20)

***EDITED TO ADD***

Shoppers from THE GOOD LIFE FOR LESS wanting Christmas cards can save 20% on 10+ cards by putting "I love the Good Life" in message to seller. Merry Christmas!

(2)

"Modern Bloom" Custom Christmas Card, Etsy, Announcing You

(High Res Digital Image, $15)

(3)

Kaleidiscope Snowflakes Folded Card, Tiny Prints

(10 cards/envelopes, $28.90)

(4)

"Believe" Christmas Collage, Pear Tree Greetings

(24 cards/envelopes, $22.99)

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!

I am finishing up the last of the Christmas details... then traveling to Chicago to be with family. So mostly I am signing off for now... check back for some rockin' scoop on DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS sales! Which there will be plenty to be had for any gift cards or extra cash you get this season... or just to get a great deal!

Much love and wishes for happiness to you.