And don’t forget the white-sprinkled pastel cupcakes for dessert. They’ll look lovely on this dragonfly etched glass plate. And so will leftover cold pizza.
at nybgshopinthegarden.org

Recently, I came across a post on a fun blog that immediately evoked a familiar pang. It was shoe envy. The brilliant blogger found these amazing ballet flats on eBay. They’re Esprit, and I vaguely remember when they were popular the first time around. And while they’re no substitute, these […]

How can something so small make me so happy?
It’s a mystery.
at tinatang.com

For 22 bucks, pick up a luxe lip gloss at your favorite department store before your holiday shindigs. Or, get your savvy self over to meetmark.com and pick up an entire bag of swag. The faux leather clutch is packed with party essentials: mascara, liquid eyeliner, gloss, and eyeshadow. Easy + […]

Slightly different than your average pullover. Return the one with the reindeer/snowman/ornaments/Christmas tree appliques from Great Aunt Gloria (she would want you to be happy) and pick up this pretty alternative.
*Down from $39.50.
at delias.com

In the midst of shopping for everyone else this week, pick up a little treat for yourself. After weeks of dealing with crowds, crazies, and crankypants, you deserve something pretty. I know I do. Sandy Hoof jewelry is a beautiful marriage of natural elements (the designer handpicks the seashells from her hometown […]

Break free from the sea of sequin and metallic this New Year’s Eve and try something understated yet elegant. It’s silk and lace, with a halter that ties at the neck. Looking like a disco ball on NYE is so obvious.
*Down from $79.99.
at jcpenny.com

Or for New Year’s Eve, you could bring sexy back a tad more overtly. The plain front on this silk and cotton top is a nice balance for the rhinestone trimmed open back. It’s a look Justin Timberlake would be proud of.
at victoriassecret.com

These handmade glass ornaments are a lovely blend of sleek and classic. And they should blend beautifully with my Charlie Brown tree peppered with popsicle stick and cotton ball ornament “treasures.”
*Down from $18.
at momastore.org

This is the greatest set of wooden blocks I’ve ever seen. (And I’ve seen alot. Just kidding.) It comes with New York City icons: the Chrysler Building, the Statue of Liberty, the Guggenheim Museum, and MoMA’s original 1939 building. Plus, the wood is from from sustainable forests. Lincoln Logs, you’ve […]