5 Holiday Scented Candles You Need for Your Home

 

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Fragrance is one of my favorite and easiest ways to transform the feeling of a space. The power of scent transports us to another world and connects us with memories. Scented candles are great any time of the year, but they are especially great during the Holiday Season, casting a cozy glow and filling your space with scents of the season.

Whether you are looking to fill your home with the scent of a freshly cut Christmas tree or a crackling fire, these candles will add an instant touch of the Holiday season to your home.

1. Diptyque Flocon Candle Limited Edition

Each year Diptyque released a limited-edition candle for the season, and this year it is Flocon. The flacon, or snowflake, candle reveals notes of white musk mixed with honeyed accents of mimosa and winter bloom.

Available at Bluemercury

2. Cire Trudon Christmas Gloria Candle

Enjoy not only a luxe seasonal fragrance, but also a beautiful blown glass vessel from what is rumored to be Marie Antoinette’s favorite candle company. Christmas Gloria from Cire Trudon is a woody-heavy scent with notes of spice throughout.

Available at Saks

3. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Pain D'Épices Candle

This candle will evoke all the childhood memories of building a gingerbread house filled with sweet delights. Pain d’epices has notes of orange, honey, cinnamon, and anise.

Available at Saks Fifth Avenue

4. NEST New York Holiday & Birchwood Pine Scented Candle

Perhaps the most fitting and synonymous with Holiday candles is the Birchwood Pine scent from nest. Fill your home with the aromatic scent of a freshly cut tree. This special Holliday set includes both Holiday and Birchwood scents.

Available at Nordstrom

5. Jo Malone Glowing Embers Candle

Evoke the aura of a cozy den or library with a crackling fire, fresh log just tossed on, with this hand-poured candle from Jo Malone. Glowing Embers has very strong notes of smoke (in a good way) and woods.

Available at Bluemercury

Holiday Cranberry Margaritas with Alacran Cristal Tequila

It is the holiday season, and that means one thing- holiday parties and gatherings! Do you find yourself running around from event to event this time of the year? I know I do! Whether you are hosting your own party or looking for a great cocktail to make for a gathering you are heading to, I have a great recipe to share with you.

Margaritas are always a crowd pleaser, but do they work at a holiday party? Yes! Nothing says winter and the holiday season quite like cranberry. Try serving this refreshing cranberry margarita at your next holiday party.

Cranberry Margarita
-2 cups Alacran Cristal Tequila
-1 1/3 cups cranberry juice (I recommend using 100% juice variety with no sugar added. Trader Joes makes a great one)
-3 tbsp Agave Syrup or sweetened to taste (Note: I use agave to make the drink fresher. If you are accustomed to an orange liqueur, use 1 Cup Cointreau of Grand Marnier) 
-2/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 


1. If you like a salted rim: place salt on small plate, wet rim, and apply salt to rims of glasses
2. Combine the tequila, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, lime juice, and ice in a large pitcher, and stir.

I like using Alacran Tequila because it is an ultra premium anejo tequila. It is packaged in a beautiful, clear glass bottle that is sleek looking. The tequila uses agaves from 7-10 years old harvested in the highlands of Jalisco. It is matured for 14 months in American Oak barrels from bourbon generating a rich, woody flavor with a hint of vanilla. As a result of their exclusive clarifying filtration process, a crystal product is produced with light gold reflections. 



*This recipe yields approximately 10 servings. 













This post was made possible by Alacran Tequila

Holiday Gift Guide for Her: Luxe selections for the Jetsetter

Have that special someone on your list that is the quintessential definition of a jetsetter? The below is a selection of a few items that may fit the bill for the female on your list that just has to have the best of the best.

Who said jet setting was cheap? While these selections are on the pricier side, a lot of them are simple and classic and will last your gift recipient for years to come. The selections seem to be dominated in black, yet from Paris to Milan and New York to Los Angeles, black is universal and just what the jet setter is looking for.

A Bottega Veneta Eye mask? Check. The perfect bag for touring and running around their favorite city? Check. Only 6 days left until the big day!

1. Saint Laurent Leather Shoulder Bag- $1,990 Net-A-Porter

2. Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick -$36 Neiman Marcus

3. Loewe Black Leather and Metal Sunglasses- $380 Editorialist 

4.  Le Labo Travel Tube Kit- $145 Barneys

5. Bottega Veneta Leather Eye Mask - $250 Barneys

6. Rimowa Deluxe Cabin Luggage - $595 PORTMANTOS

7. Hermes Silk Twill Scarf- $700 Editorialist

8. Stuart Weitzman Hijack Suede Boots -$479 *sale Bergdorf Goodman

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDES:

Wine + Travel Lover | For the Well-Groomed Man | Eleven James + The Macallan | Selections for the Stylish Guy

Holiday Cocktail Ideas for any Occasion

The holiday season is a great time to try new cocktail recipes, whether you are hosting or taking to the host, below are some holiday cocktails that are good for any gathering this season. Each recipe is quite simple, and the punches are great for sharing.

I personally love the St-Germain recipe below. I mentioned St-Germain as being a great ingredient for spring cocktails, however, it is great year round. As a side note, if you do not love cocktails, try adding a splash of St-Germain to a simple glass of champagne... you will not regret it!

The Carlyle Punch is one of the acclaimed beverages served at the New York Carlyle Hotel's iconic bar,  Bemelmans Bar. The cocktail is available on location through the festive season, but enjoy the recipe for the punch below at your holiday gatherings this year.

Grab the bottles, mix up, and enjoy!

The Carlyle Punch (pictured above)
1 ounce Southern Comfort
1 1/2 ounces Raspberry Vodka
1 1/2 ounces Cranberry Juice
1 ounce Orange Juice 1 ounce ST-GERMAIN
1 ounce Simple Syrup 1 to 3 dashes of Bitters
Splash of Champagne

 Method | In a shaker, combine ice with the Southern Comfort, Stolichnaya Raspberry, St. Germain liqueur, simple syrup, orange juice, cranberry juice and fresh lime juice. Pour in a cognac glass over-ice and finish with 3 dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of Champagne. Garnish with blueberries and raspberries.

Winter Flowers Punch
 1 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
1 cup Superfine Sugar ½ cup ST-GERMAIN
¼ cup Honey
½ cup Cognac, Tequila. Bourbon or Gin
16oz Chilled Brewed Chamomile Tea
2 bottles of MARTINI Prosecco
Orange or Lemon Slices

 Method | Combine the lemon juice, sugar, St-Germain, honey, spirit, and tea in a non-reactive bowl and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the prosecco and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour. Pour into a decorative bowl or pitcher. Garnish with orange or lemon slices and fresh strawberries, if desired. Serve in champagne flutes, wine glasses or punch cups.

St-Germain Cocktail

2 parts MARTINI Prosecco
1 ½ parts ST-GERMAIN
2 parts Sparkling Water

Method | Fill a tall Collins glass with ice. Add MARTINI Prosecco first, then ST-GERMAIN, then sparkling water. Stir completely and garnish with a lemon twist.

Photos: St-Germain, Martini

Holiday Gift Guide: Selections for the Stylish Guy

Eleven shopping days left until the big day- are you ready? In my series of gift guides, I am presenting a few selections for the stylish guy on your list. He may be at the cutting edge of fashion, seen sporting the most recent trends and modern silhouettes. He may not have a dress down moment, always running around town looking dapper. 

Below find selections that may fit into any aspect of his wardrobe from cold weather accessories to cufflinks for his cocktail soirées. These selections include on-trend items that are both classic (camel overcoat) and trendy (Fendi Monster Gloves) so you can tailor your selections to his unique preferences. Finally, every stylish guy has a signature scent, and I highly recommend Royal Oud from Creed...it is absolutely one of my favorites so I have included it with this curation.

1. J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Wool and Cashmere Overcoat - $450 Mr. Porter 

2. Fendi Monster Knit Gloves- $250 Bergdorf Goodman

3. Givenchy Embroidered Bouclé Blazer- $1,650 Mr. Porter

4. Ralph Lauren Mother-of-Pearl Cufflinks- $395 Ralph Lauren

5. Creed Royal Oud- $385 Creed

6. Club Monaco Jacquard Knit Sweater- $150 Mr. Porter

7. Burberry Cashmere Check Scarf- $575 Saks Fifth Avenue

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDES:

Wine + Travel Lover | For the Well-Groomed Man | Eleven James + The Macallan

5 Sweaters for the Holiday Season

Whether it is a yearly tradition, or you are just getting into the "holiday sweater" trend, do not be afraid as not all holiday sweaters are created equally. With that being said, your holiday sweater does not have to be "ugly" and end up in a social media post with hashtag #uglysweater.

The seasonal sweater has evolved over the years, with many iconic brands offering refined intarsia and winter jacquard prints that are perfect for the office work part or a seasonal open house party. Below are five sweaters that are sure to carry you through all your holiday season functions in style while still remaining festive at the same time. 

Happy Shopping....and being festive!

Beam Plus Suede Elbow Patch Intarsia Sweater - $180 Mr Porter

Polo Patterned Sweater - $245 Ralph Lauren

Gant Rugger Cotton Jacquard Knit Sweater - $165 Mr Porter

Vineyard Vines 1/4-Zip All Over Fair Isle- $185 Vineyard Vines

Club Monaco Fair Isle Jacquard Crew -$149.50 Club Monaco

Holiday Gift Idea: Glassware that Wine + Travel Lovers will Adore

It is hard to believe it is the holiday season already. Yes, I am one of those people that says this every year, however, it seems like just a bit ago we were wearing shorts and complaining about the extreme heat. With that being said, as soon as the calendar turns to December, it is always a great time to start checking people off your list for holiday shopping...you simply cannot start too early.

I have curated a few gift lists at Skimbaco, such as selections for the well-groomed man as well as the new Eleven James Holiday Collaboration. I am excited to share with you some of my favorite finds this season here as well. To start out my selections at Life Through Preppy Glasses, I thought what goes along with the holiday season hand-in-hand? Wine!

The folks at The Uncommon Green have created a beautiful line of glassware that is truly like works of art as the collections feature etched maps of U.S. and global cities. The unique aspect of these glasses make it the perfect gift for the person on your list that loves wine and that loves to travel. Personally, I find that traveling and wine go hand-in-hand as you can always experience new wines that are indigenous to the area of your travels.

I had to opt for the Paris Map traditional wine glass as it is one of my favorite cities in the world. Additionally, if you are looking for more contemporary silhouettes, stemless options do exist. It is fun to select cities that the person you are gifting has been to or loves. I can see the glasses being a great conversation piece over a nice bottle of wine, sharing stories of travels near and far. 

Be sure to browse all the different cities that are available from The Uncommon Green. If the person on your list is not a wine lover, there is a full line of bakeware styles available to match whatever libation they might prefer from whiskey to beer. 

Christmas Day Outfit

It is hard to believe Christmas is just two days away. I do not know about you, but I have been so busy that I have not had a moment to stop and take in all the holiday spirit and cheer. I took a moment this morning to think about what I want to wear on the big day. Nothing says Christmas quite like a little tartan and suede. I will pull the outfit together with classic loafers and a few accessories. This outfit is easy and comfortable making it great whether you are crawling around the floor with your little relatives or helping mother in the kitchen.

Loafers: Ralph Lauren // Bracelet: Hermes // Card Case: Goyard // Fragrance: Tom Ford // Shirt: Ralph Lauren Purple Label

What will you be wearing to celebrate the holidays? Wishing you and yours a very merry!!

Holiday Party Season

December is the start of party season whether its your office holiday party or your own open house, looking good at all these festive functions is a necessity. A lot of great option exist to make a standout outfit so you do not simply blend into the crowd. I have created a simple outfit that would be perfect for any holiday party on the calendar.

For me tartan is a must when it comes to holiday party attire. I started this look with a blackwatch blazer . The tartan is very festive and preppy, and the black/green plaid colorway is a bit more subtle than some other plaid combinations. Make the blazer your statement piece by pairing only simplistic pieces is with. Layer a simple black turtleneck underneath for an understated look and pair refined wool trousers on the bottom. Finish the look with a great shoe such as a suede tassel loafer and accessorize with a seasonal pocket square- in this instance I chose red to compliment the green in the blazer.

However you may be partying this holiday season, remember, you can never be too overdressed!

Blazer: Club Monaco // Trousers: Dolce & Gabbana // Sweater: John Smedley // Shoes: Alexander McQueen // Pocket Square: Ferragamo 

Top Holiday Gift Picks for Women

I have always found it easier to shop for women rather than men....maybe because there is something out there that a woman will always want. Other the other hand, men have the famous line of "I don't need anything!"

As a follow up to my gift selections for men I have curated a list of my selections for women. I have included some of the top brands on their radar from Kate Spade and Tory Burch to Jo Malone. These gifts span an array of price ranges and tastes/styles.

From the wine lover to the fashionista, hover over the image below to shop my favorite gifts for women this holiday season!

Holiday Gift Selections for Men

With the biggest shopping weekend of the year behind us and in the middle of Cyber Monday, many have started their holiday shopping for the season. If you are like me, you find yourself scrambling at the last minute to check everyone off of your list. This year, I made a vow to get my shopping done a little bit ahead of schedule (hopefully).

To get a jump start on holiday shopping, I have curated a list of a few of my personal favorite items of the year spanning many price points and ranging from a classic wool sweater to modern timepieces and fragrance. Whether you are shopping for a boyfriend, brother, dad, or friend there is sure to be something for every man on your list.

Hover over the image below to shop my holiday selections for 2014:


Post-Shave Lotion- In an effort to elevate my shaving routine, I tried some new products from American Crew, one being this post-shave soothing lotion. I instantly fell in love with the product which has now become a staple in my routine. This would be a great stocking stuffer for that college student that is always running late and in rush, sometimes neglecting their shaving routine.

Personalized Toasting Box- This toasting set from Orvis is the perfect match for that true gentleman on your list. Crafted from wood, this toasting set which has room for 10 shot glasses and your favorite liquor makes a handsome addition to any celebratory event. I personally own the set and have thoroughly enjoyed, opting for the available personalization option. This set is sure to make a memorable gift!

Miansai Cuff- I have enjoyed the bracelet trend which has gained popularity in men's fashion and accessories. My go-to brand for modern, well made pieces has been Miansai. The screw bracelet has become their iconic piece, and my new favorite is the addition of the "Noir" collection to the lineup. These cuffs are a great pick for the guy who loves fashion and is on top of trends.

Diptyque Fragrance- Fragrance always makes a great gift, and the selections from Diptyque are simply amazing. This Paris based perfumer makes unique scents which are not available from other houses. I was exposed to their scent, Tam Dao, and have fallen in love with it. It is a mix of sandalwood, rosewood, cypress, and ambergris. It is sure to become his new favorite!

Breil Timepieces-  A timepiece always makes a memorable gift for any man. Breil offers modern, sophisticated timepieces at a reasonable price. This season, the Dome collection is very popular. The Dome collection for men is also exquisitely designed in Italy and is inspired by the city of Milan, celebrating the history and architecture of the Milan Dome — one of the city's main attractions. With its sapphire crystal dome shape, this collection offers a unique structural design for men this holiday season. Italian craftsmanship is honored with a patented new crown as well.

Irish Wool Sweater- You can never go wrong with something as classic as shawl collar sweater. This season, Orvis is offering an option crafted in Ireland from pure wool. This piece is part of my collection, and I personally love how classic the design and silhouette are. The quality shines throw in this genuine piece which is quite warm!

Valentine's Day Gift Picks

Hard to believe Valentine's Day is only 2 days away. Here are a few of my top picks for gifts. Some for men and some that can be shared. A lot of sites are running promos on shipping right now for those last minute shoppers! 

What was on your wish list?

1. Amore Champagne Flute Set- I have been obsessing over this champagne flute set since I saw it on Red Envelope. I think they are very unique, and not to mention perfect for the occasion. This is a great gift to use and share with your loved one.

2. Dom Perignon- I am a champagne lover so it comes as no surprise that Dom Perignon would be on my top picks. Usually regarded as for special occasions, Dom would make the perfect bottle to enjoy with your loved one on Valentine's Day....in the amore champagne flutes perhaps!

3. Ralph Lauren Heraldic Crown Tie- I felt cliché selecting a tie, but there is always the type of guy that likes to stick to the "traditional" gifts so to speak one it comes to holidays. Ties are always a great option for the business type man. I love this one with crowns by Ralph Lauren Black Label.

4. Randolph Engineering Concorde Sunglasses- I love Randolph sunglasses, and this model is featured in a new tone- rose gold. The quality of their products is amazing and you cannot go wrong with the rose gold tone as it has become quite the trendy shade of metal. These glasses are actually plated in 23K gold! Available directly from Randolph Engineering.

5. Prada Card Holder- A cardholder is the perfect accessory for the man about town, especially in today's world of card based transactions. They are sleek and less bulky than wallets, yet very functional. I love the preppy undertone of houndstooth of this Prada option available from Bergdorf Goodman.

6. His & Hers Philip Stein Watches- A true luxury gift that two can share is this his&hers Philip Stein Watch set.  Made specially for Valentine's Day, the male version features a black calf strap while the female version features a diamond bezel. Both watches incorporate the natural frequency technology for which the brand is known. Available from Philip Stein.

After Christmas Sales

I hope that everyone had a relaxing holiday with their families. After Christmas sales are some of the best of the year, and with all that Christmas money burning a whole in your pocket, it is the perfect opportunity to score some great threads at even better prices. I've curated a small list of a few of my favorite sales currently going on. 

Which sales have you taken advantage of with your holiday money?

Mr. Porter:

This website is hands down my favorite on the web. They offer the best selection of designer merchandise, specifically for men. The current sale offers everything from shoes, clothes, and accessories at up to 50% off. This is a great time of the year to score great outerwear pieces that will last forever. I love this Belstaff trench, currently at 40%. ($2,157)

Jack Wills:

The go-to British brand for casually, preppy attire is currently offering an array of fall and winter merchandise at a discount. There is a great selection of oxfords, sweaters, and chinos. Even better, they are currently offering a contest called "#jackpot" in which you can win back the value of your sale purchases!  I always love a good fairisle sweater for the winter season, and this fairisle crew is a great find at $79 (originally $148).

J.Crew:

The all around favorite is currently offering an extra 40% off sale merchandise both in store and online. Take advantage of this to stock up on wardrobe essentials like button-downs, chinos, and v-neck sweaters. I love J.Crew cashmere, and with an extra 40% off, select cabled crewnecks will ring up at only $131.

Ralph Lauren:

We all know my love for the Ralph Lauren brand, featured in almost every outfit post that I write. The current winter sale offers an additional 25% off sale items online and an additional 40% off sale in Ralph Lauren stores. This all adds up for some amazing deals on classic, preppy items. Score iconic Ralph Lauren items such as the American Flag Sweater for just $67 with the additional 25% off. 

Neiman Marcus:

The Neiman's after Christmas sale is also one of my favorites to shop each year. While every category is on sale, I always tend to gravitate towards their footwear sales. Currently, sale is an extra 25-33% off for some great savings on the finest designers. I am loving the items from Hadleighs, and this pair of slippers is no exception. Currently $390.

Happy shopping!

Season of Celebrations

Tis the season for celebrations! Just one of the many things I love about this time of the year. Whether you are celebrating the end of another semester, a work party, or gift exchange with friends, there is always a reason to pop open a bottle of bubbly. 

I am partial to Moet, and highly recommend the Ice Imperial. Rosé is perfect for a toast at a special gathering. I have been seeing a lot of great recipes involving champagne floating around the internet. I  love a good classic, yet fun cocktail with champagne. 

At your next celebration, grab the Moet, ice cream, and raspberries, and you will have the perfect sweet cocktail in a glass...sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Photo: My own

Holiday Gift Selections for Women

It is hard to believe it is only 12 days until Christmas! A few weeks ago I made some selections for gifts for men, and now I have a few picks for the girls on your list. This list is simple and covers an array of categories, yet includes some classic choices such as fragrance and jewelry. 

Happy shopping!

1. Tory Burch Robinson Triangle Tote- This makes a great gift for the business woman or the college student about to enter the working world, and what girl isn't loving Tory Burch right now? The robinson leather is durable and sophisticated, and this tote will be able to fit all her daily essentials.

2. Kate Spade On the Town Necklace- Give a gift that sparkles with this necklace from Kate Spade. A go-to for good costume jewelry, this necklace will be a hit. Not to mention, it will pair well with upcoming New Year's Eve parties and festivities. 

3. Silver Vines Cuff- Give two gifts with this one, one for your loved one and one to charity. With the purchase of the handmade artisan cuff made in Indian, you purchase will go towards the fight against poverty. This cuff is available from the World Vision Gift Catalog, a non-profit that helps to fight children in poverty. Remember, it is the season of giving and what better way to give?

4. Nest Grapefruit Candle- I cannot get enough of Nest Fragrances recently. They truly do make the perfect holiday gift whether it is for the hostess, a family member, or friend, it will be sure to fill their space with a lovely aroma. I happen to love the grapefruit scent- very vibrant and refreshing.

5. Jo Malone Peony & Blush- English brand Jo Malone is renowned for her perfumes and fragrances. Give this gift, and she will always remember you with the scent. The Peony & Blush scent, featuring hints of peony, red apple, and jasmine with a touch of suede, is very popular. Even more, it comes in a gift box with signature black ribbon, ready to give!

6. Christian Louboutin Simple Pump- What woman does not want a pair of red soles this holiday season? The perfect gift for any fashion loving girl, the pump is a classic that she will be able to wear over and over again. Not to mention she will be eye-catching in them as well. 

5 Random Monday Thoughts

Hard to believe we have left Thanksgiving and the weekend behind and entered into December. Only 23 days until Christmas!

• I hope everyone had a relaxing Thanksgiving, enjoying time with friends and family
• School is ending earlier than normal which is a plus, however, the next 2 weeks are going to be insane.
• I enjoyed a massage treatment on Black Friday at the spa at the Ritz Carlton-perhaps more to come on that later!
• I need to get in the holiday season and start shopping for some gifts...always so hard to pick! Don't forget to check out a few of my selections for men with my gift guide
• Are you taking advantage of Cyber Monday? Some of my favorite deals of the day include:

30% off your entire order at Jack Spade...including sale!

Spend $200 or more and receive 20% off your order with Vineyard Vines

30% off you order online and in store with J.Crew

Jack Wills is offering 30% off, ending today

Enjoy an additional 50% select reduced styles and discounts with spend at Ralph Lauren

And a little inspiration to get into the season since it is December after all

Holiday Gift Selections For Men

Buying gifts for men can be very hard sometimes. The go-to options are always a tie, tech gadget, and maybe cufflinks. Below, I have curated some of my top picks for gifts that cover everything from the traditional to the very stylish man. With a week less of shopping between Thanksgiving and the Christmas holiday, it is time to start thinking about gifts! Links for products can be found in the blurb below. 

1. Ralph Lauren Cashmere Throw- A nice throw is perfect for the bachelor in an apartment or dad's mountain house. You can never go wrong with the comfort of cashmere and this classic from Ralph Lauren. Available in an array of colors with monogramming available as well.

2. Beau Ties Bow Ties- A bow tie should be in every gentleman's closet. I am loving the very preppy choices available from Beau Ties. Discovering smaller, local brands is always fun, and this company is no exception. All ties are handmade in Vermont!

3. Personalized Wine Bucket- Personalization always adds a special touch, and this wine bucket is no exception. Great for holiday parties and summer entertaining on the deck or terrace. Available from Red Envelope Gifts

4. Balmain HighTop Sneakers- Sneakers and High Top sneakers have made a big come back in men's fashion. This pair is sure to impress any fashionable guy on your list. The famous french house of Balmain makes some great pairs of shoes!

5. Randolph Engineering Limited Edition Aviators- This limited edition pair (100 available worldwide) will be available for purchase starting December 1st. I love the quality and great optics of Randolph aviators, and this pair is even more special. It features platinum coating and lizard wrapped temples. 

6. UNTICKit & RumbaTime Gift Set- Men's shirting brand UNTUCKit and watch brand RumbaTime are teaming up to offer a special gift set. A select combination of shirts and timepieces will be available for purchase for $150 from the UNTUCKit website. I love the UNTUCKit shirts, and this deal makes it even more appealing! 

If you are looking for even more holiday gift ideas, check out the array of curated gifts at Skimbaco Lifestyle selected by my colleagues and myself. 

Vineyard Vines Holiday Arrivals

Holiday collections are always a yearly favorite. They are usually filled with icons of the season, namely tartans, plaids, intarsias, and fun embroidery. The new holiday arrivals from Vineyard Vines include some great pieces for the season as we get closer and closer to calendars filled with dinner parties and soirées. Included in the collection are a myriad of fun, printed ties, oxfords in seasonal colors, and fun party pants. 

Here are some of my top picks from the new arrivals:

The navy pants embroidered with wreaths and the Vineyard Vines whale in a Santa hat are perhaps my favorite...who said dressing for a holiday party meant you had to be boring? The tweed blazer will become a go-to favorite, and the oxford in navy and red is vibrant yet appropriate for the season. As always, the ties never disappoint. 

Photos via vineyardvines.com 

5 Random Monday Thoughts

February has been quite an interesting month...anyone agree? My verdict is: Bye February, March please show up!

• I am so thankful its a long weekend this time around. Getting up after 11 has been much needed. Waiting to do all my work, on the other hand, was not such a good idea!
• It feels like I am living in Chicago recently rather than New York. Its so incredibly windy here! 
• This past weekend definitely showed some sides of friends I didnt want to see. Moments like these are always bound to happen now and then, so hopefully there will not be any more for a bit.
• I will be in Barcelona in less than a month!
• This weekend has seemed quite long, but Valentine's Day kicked it off last Thursday. I must say mine was quite nice! Veuve Clicquot, Ladurée, and lots of cupcakes....what more would I want?!

Join "Monday Morning Gossip" with me and many others at Join The Gossip

Looking Back At 2012

I was never a fan of all the hype on New Year's Eve, however, I do like looking back after the past year and remembering all the things good and bad that can happen in 365 days. All in all I think 2012 was a very good year for me. So much as happened its hard to believe it has only be just one year ago since we we're all sitting here writing our little reflections on 2011.

2012 started with all my friends traveling to Europe for months so I was left to navigate Manhattan alone. It was a great time to try new restaurants and make some new friends as well. Summer came and went in the flash of an eye and it was already back to school in the fall. It was great to have everyone back in the city ready to have fun. This past semester has been great. This past year I really discovered who I am as a person

Here are some of the highs and maybe lows of 2012:

• February Fashion Week events such as Lunch with Alexandre Birman and attending the Moncler Grenoble Show
• Managing to eat at almost every restaurant in Meatpacking 
• Visiting LA in March
• Getting my first pair of Louboutins....now thats exciting
• Moving into my very own apartment! Perhaps the most exciting thing of 2012
• Of course new friends were made, but some old friends were also lost
• The start and unfortunately end of a relationship
• Going out on break in style at Beaumarchais

I hope your 2012 was filled with as many memorable moments as mine. Looking ahead, 2013 has the potential to be even more exciting. I see Barcelona in my near future for one thing. I do, however, want to vow to take things a bit more slowly in 2013 and not rush so much. 

Happy New Year!