Category: gift ideas

Valentine’s Gift Ideas for the Mr.

Published on by kristenfyockLeave a comment

It seems that whenever I write about post about gift ideas, Ted always asks what I’m going to get him. I like to think that me being his Valentine is enough, but nevertheless, he has a point. These are a few of my current favorite ideas, though I would like to add a disclaimer that these are ideas that are likely best suited once you’ve walked down the aisle. Trying to take over a man’s wardrobe before you’re married is risky business, let alone asking him to use a face mask. Ted and I passed that point a long time ago, and he agrees that his wardrobe and grooming is better for it. Before we were married, I stuck to things like electronics or tickets to something fun (whether a concert or sporting event).

slide21. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7. / 8.

1. This commuter briefcase is a perfect blend of rugged man bag and enough polish to look professional showing up to an important meeting.

 2. Monogrammed cufflinks add a timeless personal touch to any professional wardrobe. I also love these as a gift idea for groomsmen.

 3. After a hard week at work, he can impress his friends when he offers them a drink sporting a giant ice ball just like the most popular craft cocktail bars.

4. The Tile makes missing keys, wallets, or even phones a thing of the past. It links to your phone so that you can “ring” your keys. A lifesaver for mornings in our house where the keys always seem to go missing.

 5. Born in Richmond, Ledbury shirts are some of the best fitting shirts around. The guys that founded the company are pretty great too. The start-up is still small enough that the founders often stop by pop-up shop events and customer appreciation parties.

6. I’ve been using Biore charcoal products for awhile, but splurged on this Beautycounter set for Ted for Christmas. The first time he used it, he left the mask on a little too long and his face turned red, but hasn’t had a problem since.

7. This slim wallet is perfect for today’s tailored suit and fitted jeans trend since it slips nicely in pockets without adding bulk.

8. It took me forever to convince Ted that throwing on gym shoes with jeans, even if just to run to the grocery store, isn’t the best look. Now I’m hoping he’ll abandon flip flops in the dead of winter to take out the dog, if there is a comfy casual alternative.

What are you planning to get your S.O. for Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Published on by kristenfyockLeave a comment

Our first few years of marriage, Valentine’s Day always caused tension between Ted and I because he felt pressured to get me a gift. Inevitably, he’d ask what I wanted and I would say nothing since we just had Christmas and my birthday is around the corner. I would say to just pick up some flowers from the grocery store if he felt he really needed to do something. Rather than believing me, he would assume that I was “setting a trap” when I said not to get me anything, but really expected him to go find something on his own. That really wasn’t the case, but he’d get so worried about it that we’d usually get in a fight about something silly.

One year, I just so happened to spot a pair of sparkly pink earrings at J. Crew. I ended up getting them myself, but told Ted about them first we agreed that they could be for Valentine’s Day. Problem solved…Until the next year when he told me that he knows I like to shop for myself, but that he wanted to get something for me. That’s about the year that I started putting together a “gift guide” that he’s been able to use for Valentine’s Day and birthday ideas since. Last year the theme tended towards a cozy night in, but it seems that this year I’m in the mood for travel!

valentines-day-20171. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7. / 8.  / 9. / 10. / 11.

Do you usually exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day? If so, what’s topping your wish list?

xoxo,

Kristen

Desk to Dinner to Date Night

Published on by kristenfyock1 Comment

Since I spend so much time at work or traveling for work events, I shop for pieces that easily transition from day to night. Simple sheath dresses are a great option that can be dressed up or down, but this statement necklace is truly a versatile piece that’s lots of fun! I was drawn to the mixed media design of the soft chiffon and leather petals against the heaver metal chain. The petals detach for a simple necklace that is office appropriate, and easily clip back on to transform a boring work ensemble to something with a little more interest for evening. Despite spending so much time in dressier, more polished outfits, my favorite way to wear it is dressed down with jeans and a jacket.

I pulled pieces that I already had in my closet to style this necklace, but love the current styles below to complete the look as well. The necklace, tote, and clutch are all available from Stella & Dot.

ddd

 

9 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for a Glamour Girl

Published on by kristenfyock1 Comment

valentines.jpg

1./2./3./4./5./6./7./8./9.

I don’t usually make a big deal out of Valentine’s Day because I don’t think you should need a holiday to do something nice for your sweetie or spend time together. Flowers and chocolate are always lovely to receive, whether from the swanky specialty shop or from the supermarket, but are even better when they are gifted “just because”. I like to pick out (or hint at) Valentine’s Day gifts that feel a little luxurious. This year my picks lend themselves to a relaxing night in – perhaps because staying in is less stressful than going out with a new baby.

1. As much as I love a dark nail color in the winter months, this light pink is classically feminine and pretty for a well manicured look since chips are less obvious. Would you expect any less from a Ciate collection that is a collaboration with Olivia Palermo?

2. Jo Malone became a household name when it was reported that Kate Middleton placed these candles in the bathrooms at her wedding. I’m a fan of anything in the Peony & Blush Suede collection.

3. These Sorrel boots are on the practical side of my gift list, but made the cut after realizing that my beloved metallic Hunter boots are not really snow-ready.

4. What glamour girl doesn’t love jewelry? The Aria cuff by Stella & Dot is bold yet versatile due to the crackled quartz and gold color palette.

5. Nothing screams luxury more than silk pajamas. These even come in box that’s just beautiful!

6. Remember the royal blue satin pumps that every bride wished for thanks to Carrie Bradshaw? The classic Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Jeweled pump is now available in this shimmering neutral hue.

7. A wool or cashmere throw is perfect for cuddling up under with your sweetie to watch a good old Romantic Comedy, or by yourself to watch Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the umpteenth time (champagne and sparkly earrings also recommended).

8. Would I buy a wine because the instagram account is so good? Maybe, but it helps that the wine is good too!

9. It’s possible that I’ve been watching too much Scandal lately to get caught up before the new episode this week, but I can’t stop thinking about how cozy Olivia Pope always looks in her oversized cashmere cardigans sipping red wine and noshing on popcorn. This cream cashmere robe is both indulgent and budget-friendly.

What are you hoping for this Valentine’s day?

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Published on by kristenfyockLeave a comment

Slide1

I can’t believe that Mother’s Day is just around the corner already! A great gift for your mom can be sharing something you know she loves, or a great new product that you’ve discovered. You’ll never go wrong with a flower arrangement, and The Bouqs delivers the best bouquets. Tunic tops are another great bet for moms as they are as comfy as they are stylish. I know that my mom enjoys using essential oils, and this collection from Beautycounter is free of toxins and any other harmful chemicals you wouldn’t want to put on your face. A spritz of floral cologne, a statement making cuff, and she’s off to take on the town! She may even need a new tote to tackle all those errands. What are you gifting your mom this year?

Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Guys

Published on by kristenfyockLeave a comment

Slide1

 

While Valentine’s Day is often all about the girls, sometimes guys like to be shown a little love as well. I’ve put together a few finds that I know my husband would love. He was born and bred in the south, but has a sincere appreciation for a well-tailored suit and quality leather goods. A slim card case slips easily into his pockets without adding bulk, and he loves the perfect fit of a Ledbury shirt. Mark & Graham’s secret message cufflinks allow you to hide a message behind hammered metal, and Bulleit Bourbon with an issue of Gun & Garden is a great way to relax at the end of a long week.

Stubble and ‘Stache / Ledbury / Card Case / Garden & Gun / Cufflinks / Bulleit Bourbon

Valentine’s Gifts for the Glamour Girl

Published on by kristenfyock1 Comment

 

 

 

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, I certainly don’t say no to flowers and chocolate, but prefer a feminine gift that makes me feel flirty and pretty. Something sparkly, whether shoes, jewelry, or sparkling wine, always does the trick, but I’ve rounded up a few more practical gift ideas as well. This Julie Vos “Babar” shawl is oh-so-cute and warm for the remaining winter days and let’s not forget to wear sunglasses, even in the winter. Every girl knows that a quick swipe of a favorite lipstick instantly lifts her spirits. What are you getting your valentine? I’m guessing mine would love nothing more than a good old-fashioned love note (maybe tucked into a new wallet or tie box).Slide1

 

The Bouqs Bouquet / Julie Vos Babar Shawl / Veuve Clicquot Rose / Kate Spade / YSL “Pink in Paris” / Ray Ban Classic Aviators / Pink Peonies Collection Ring