2009 HOLIDAY GUIDE: WHAT I'M LOVING

It's hard to hunt for gifts without finding a few things to love for yourself! These picks are some of my favorites, but would, of course, make fabulous gifts too!
Those of you born in October can probably sympathize when I say it feels impossible to find jewelery with our birthstone (opal) that I actually want to wear. So when I found this piece by Winifred Grace (who will be in Seattle this weekend for a trunk show!!) I had to add it to my wishlist. pacific opal bracelet at winifred grace. $375.

One of my favorite gifts so far this year is this simple book - I think it's the perfect gift for a friend or family member who might be starting a new adventure or chapter in their life. And I love that it's only one line a day - that's about all I have time for before I crawl into bed at night!
one line a day book at amazon. $11.50

I think we all know how I feel about gold anything, so of course I was drawn to this blanket with its contrast of natural linen and bronzed satin trim. While this version is a bit more pricey, for those of you handy in the DIY category, I could see how this would be a simple project! striped linen blanket at patch nyc. $365.
And finally - a fun pick from one of my favorite new online shops! These have got to be the best shot glasses I have ever seen. Usually when I see sets with patterns, I like one more than the other, but all of these are so chic! Add them to the bar please! set of four shot glasses at haus interior. $75.

2008 Holiday Gift Guide: Book It

Someday, my library will be stocked with all these books, and many many more! In the meantime, why not give your favorite decor or fashion lover a bit of inspiration with one of these selections?

Give them something to look forward to; preorder a book to be delivered the second it's released. These two are my favorites for 2009: The Golden Age of Couture and, from one of my favorite designers, Sixx Design, their first book, Downtown Chic. (I can't wait to get a copy!)

You can't go wrong with these two choices. Vogue Fashion features selections from the magazine and pages on legendary designers throughout the decades, and Domino's Book of Decorating is a must for any decor lover! (psssst - the Domino book is currently 35% off at Barnes & Noble!)

Photography at its finest, Hedi Slimane's Rock Diary and Vanity Fair Portraits.

And finally, for the young Parisian at heart, two children's books that should be a hit for all ages. Different Like Coco gives a peek into the inspiring story of Coco Chanel, and Mon Paris coloring book creates instant art for your walls.