Xmas 2013 Gift Guide: Fashion

I think it's foolish to buy someone clothes as a present, unless they've specifically told you what to buy. Honestly, in between sizing issues (yeah, I'd love to go exchange this present at the mall along with a million other people) and differences in taste, you're better off gifting straight cash yo.

That being said, if you absolutely have to buy fashion items, stick to a few basic rules: accessories are better than clothes, sweaters and other stretchy/loose items are better than structured items, chance on the side of too small if you're unsure of the recipient's size, and don't be offended if the person does return your gift (because she probably will).

The Weekly Gimme: J. Crew Scalloped Dress

$168, J. Crew

I hate Boston. Really, I do. Why is it still cold? I want to wear pretty dresses in bright colors. Like this one. It would work equally well for both work and the weekend. Unfortunately, it is sold out on the website. I'll have to keep my eye on it.

Last Minute Presents, or Presents for Next Year

Set Available Here

Need some present ideas? Maybe it's too late for this year, but one should always be thinking ahead. Also, do you really need a holiday to buy someone (or yourself) a little something? No. People should get presents every day.

Catullus has something for everyone. He's smutty and irreverent, but also sweet and romantic. He knows what a lady likes. I just bought a Gilt voucher for Gorjana, so I'm excited to buy one of their classic pieces. I really like this ring, but the necklaces are very nice as well. This heart umbrella is adorable--but anything whimsical and cute would be a nice surprise--I just wouldn't spend very much on it.

Taza chocolate is one of my favorites. It only has a few ingredients: chocolate, sugar, salt. It has a wonderful mouth feel and is delicious. Also, it's a small business that has trade partnerships with plantations committed to fair wages and sustainability. It's definitely a step up from Godiva. Speaking of sweets, beauty products are usually a safe way to go (as long as they're not cellulite removal creams). This Fresh sugar lip polish is a personal favorite; I use it twice a week to prevent chapping and flaking. Also, if a wee bit gets in your mouth, it tastes pretty good.

It's still February. Which means it's still pretty cold. When it's cold, pajamas are always welcome. (Pajamas are welcome when it's warm too, but go smaller.) I have a pair of J.Crew PJs, and I really like them. A nice pajama set always makes you feel like you have your shit together, even if you're wearing them on a Thursday afternoon. Finally, I own this Boden sweatshirt in a darker gray, andI love would kill someone for it. It's a cashmere hoodie. As in, you can be a slob, but at least you look like a wealthy slob. It's incredibly comfortable and warm (but not overly so) and it looks great. Seriously, no matter what you've done, this Boden sweatshirt will buy forgiveness.

The Daily Gimme: Origami Sheath Dress

$158, J. Crew

I was *this* close to buying this dress during the 30% off sale today. But I decided to exercise some self-restraint in the hopes it will go on even MOAR sale after the holidays. Even though I have not officially started working, I have been collecting work wear for the past three years. See, I will be wearing this shit for the next 40 years (give or take a few decades, if I strike oil), so might as well start buying early. (Early and often is my motto for shopping.)

But, come October of next year, I am going to be busting out the dresses and suits. I think that this would be an excellent addition to my work wardrobe. I like the classic silhouette and professional color that will never, ever go out of style. I like the slight nipped-in waist (which is just dying for a colorful skinny belt) and the slight flare at the hips. But, of course, the focus of this masterpiece is the asymmetrical folding at the collar. Here is some unique dress construction that doesn't require a weird bra or a cardigan to be decent at the office. The detail adds just the right amount of personality to a work dress. 

I wonder if it could be worn with a blazer; I suspect it would but I worry that the folds might look a bit funny. Also, I think this dress (like most) would be vastly improved if it had some pockets.