#BLOGMAS: Gift Guide 2017

Whew! I don't know about all of you, but this holiday season has approached rather rapidly for me this year. From me being sick with pneumonia, my mum getting a hip replacement, and this semester at school winding down (Only one more exam left after today, yay!) I have most definitely been slacking on my holiday preparations this year, one of which is holiday shopping! So, while I was brainstorming gift ideas for my own Christmas shopping list, I decided so share some of my fool proof gift ideas, just in case some of my readers are late to the gift shopping game too. And to boot, I've managed to find some major steals through my sponsors as well, so not only can you nab some awesome gifts, you won't break the bank by doing so!

For Him

Let's face it: Though I'm sure we all love shopping for the fellows in our lives, sometimes it can be incredibly frustrating. This is due to the fact we are never quite sure what to buy them or in cases like mine, they end up buying something for themselves that we planned on getting them. So, I've compiled these following items that are sure to be a hit even if you're guy has everything he could possibly need.

Watches

Though I'm sure most men already own a watch, in my opinion they are one thing a guys can't have too many of (kind of like how I couldn't possibly ever have too many shoes). The reason being is due to giving their wardrobe versatility. For instance, on a more casual day out, he may want to go with a more modern or laid back watch than the dress watch he wears everyday to the office. 

Items Left to Right: Citzen Eco Drive, Movado Bold, JORD Sawyer Koa & Bronze, Bulova Stainless Steel Automatic, Michael Kors Chronograph. 

Accessories & Jewelry

Though not every guy is much for jewelry, some of these simple and understated pieces above could be the perfect gift for the man who like to accessorize. But there are also some more classic choices that may be better suited (and practical) for the more classic guy, such as cuff links, scarves, and ties.

Items Left to Right: Tiffany & Co. Paloma's Groove Bead Pendant, Burberry Cuff Links, Lacoste Logo Scarf, Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso's Knot Single Braid Bracelet, Tiffany & Co. Engine Turned Cuff Links, Ralph Lauren Bumble Bee Silk Tie.

Extras & Such

Last but not least, I decided to through in some practical options because one thing for sure is, I love to give useful gifts. So I figured I would throw some of these nifty options out their because I am sure any man would love them. 

Items Left to Right: Master Dynamic Ear Buds, Kiehl Men's Grooming Kit, Fendi Logo Wallet, Chanel Bleu Cologne. 

For Her

And since I know many of us ladies find it hard to shop for the men in our lives, I can only imagine that many guys have the same problem shopping for the women in their lives! So, if you happen to stumble upon this page (Hey, I don't only post fashion, so maybe you'll find something you like!) here are some great gift ideas for her if you're needing inspiration. 

Makeup & Skincare

Though I personally hardly ever wear makeup on a daily basis (not for lack of not liking too mind you, it mostly boils down to laziness on my part), I know there are many women who do and above are some of my top picks for makeup kits and brushes. There are also some killer skin care routines because who wouldn't want to give the gift of pampering and good skin?

Items Left to Right: Rouge Dior Bijou Lipstick Set, YSL Dazzling Lights Palette, Burt's Bees Four Piece Face Essentials, Clarins 24 Piece Advent Calendar, 32 Piece Makeup Brush Set.

Jewelry & Accessories

If the gals in your life are anything like me, that means you can never go wrong with jewelry or warm and snugly accessories. From watches to bracelets, and from scarves and hats, these gift ideas are sure to please this holiday season. 

 Items Left to Right: Plaid Blanket Scarf, Grey Scarf and Pom Pom Beanie Set, Lira Coins Charm Bracelet, Givenchy Rose Gold Choker, Movado Two Tone Watch, Movado Bold in Rose Gold, Animal Pattern Socks.

Extras & Such

Much like for the guys, of course there is always room for practical gifts for us girls too. So, here is a broad selection of some very useful gifts that I'm sure any lady would adore. 

Items Left to Right: Heart and Lock Key Chain, Mermaid Tail Blanket (I have one, and I love it! It's soooo warm!), Workout Phone Case, Geometric Phone Case, Chanel No. 5 Perfume, Calvin Klein Cross Body Bag.

For All

Last but certainly not least, I decided I wanted to cover "gifts for all" in this post. Mainly because though it can be hard to shop for our loved ones, it's even harder to shop for people who we do not know that well. Whether it be for a work Chinese auction or even for an extended family member of your beau in their family grab bag, all of the following gifts are universal and are sure to thrill whoever may receive them!

Home Goods

The best thing about giving the gift of home goods is you really can't go wrong with them! People are always looking for nick-knacks, decor, candles, and anything to set their home apart and make it their own. The other great thing about home goods is many of them can be practical and useful too, making them a major hit.

Items Left to Right: Tea Kettle, Nest Fragrances, Crossley Record Player, Bar Set, Yankee Candles.

Gift Baskets

Gift basket, in my opinion, are best for holiday work parties that require a grab bag or Chinese auction. The reason being is you can find a gift basket filled with just about thing! From spa treatments, to chocolates, to wines, and even meats and cheeses, there is definitely something for everybody when it comes to gift baskets.

 Items Left to Right: Spa Gift Basket, Ghirardelli Gift Basket, Tea and Coffee Gift Basket, Wine Gift Basket, Hickory Farms Perfect Picnic Basket.

Subscription Gifts 

And lastly, if you are feeling extra generous, you can give the gift of a year of a subscription service! These are great because many of them are geared towards practicality, healthy living, and some are even for our furry friends!

 Items Left to Right: Amazon Prime, Graze, Bark Box, Bourbon of the Month. 

What are some of the gifts you will be giving this holiday season? I'd love to hear about how you will be spreading cheer, so let's chat about it in the comments below or you can tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Later, babes, and happy shopping!

Xx, Bree

P.S. Psssssst! Love the flat lay I posted earlier on Instagram today but not sure where to get the goods? Well, no fear! I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!

Summer Vacation Style Guide 2017

Though summer is quickly coming to a close, I have always taken my vacations towards the end of the season. I have always liked to think of it as a "last hoorah" of sorts before getting back to the grind in the fall. So for my vacation this year, I'm actually heading down to New Orleans for eight days (Yes, there will be a couple new travel posts in the near future folks!) and I figured what would be more fitting than to post some of my top outfit choices for summer vacation! And though I will be going back to my typical Style Guide posts come fall, today's will be a little different because I've decided to actually show you all some of the outfits I will be styling down in The Big Easy. 

Mixing Patterns

Love this top? See some other ways I styled it here!

The first summer trend that I am excited to style on my vacation is the mixing of patterns. The reason I love this trend so much is because it leaves so much room for experimentation and is a fun and playful touch on casual outfits. The outfit I have on above would be absolutely perfect for sight seeing around New Orleans due to the fact these pieces are light weight and airy which is great for keeping you cool and of course comfy shoes are a must! 

(Outfit: Sunglasses by Tory Burch, Top from Fascino, Jewelry from Rocksbox, Shorts thifted from Red, White, and Blue Thrift Store, Bag by Yves Saint Laurent, Shoes by Michael Kors.) 

Ravishing Reds

Of course you can't take a trip to New Orleans without going to the infamous restaurant The Commander's Palace! For those of you who are unfamiliar with the swanky spot, it is an upscale eatery known for its creole fare, beautiful setting, and I can't help but mention that they serve 25 cent martinis during lunch--who would want to miss that?! Due to its elegant nature, The Commander's Palace requires its guests to dress in business to semi formal attire, so to hit this hot spot, I will be packing this lovely red shift dress and my Kate Spade heels. To style this piece I chose to pair it with gold chandelier earrings and a plain gold cuff.

(Outfit: Earrings from Fascino, Dress by Micheal Kors, Bracelet by Victoria's Secret, Heels by Kate Spade.)

Sea Side Stripes

This next outfit it yet another summer style trend, and that would be stripes! The reason I decided to take this lovely outfit from Ann Taylor with me is for one, these pants are so incredibly comfortable!! And considering they are all cotton, they're the perfect choice to stay cool in the Louisiana heat. I also just adore this blouse due to its ruffled collar, which as I'm sure you all know is also a big trend this season. To further style this adorable duo, I chose to pair it with this beautiful Kendra Scott necklace and this pretty cuff by SLATE.

(Outfit: Blouse, pants, and shoes are from Ann Taylor. Jewelry can be found at Rocksbox.)

Longer Lengths

As my long time readers know, I am absolutely crazy about maxi dresses! So its only natural that I would pack one to style on my vacation. The reason I love this gorgeous maxi dress so much is because I love its rich colors as well as its bold pattern. To style it, I chose to keep it simple with this sweet little SLATE cuff and some brown and white sandals.

(Outfit: Earrings from Forever 21, Dress thrifted at Red White and Blue Thrift Store, Shoes by Tommy Hilfiger.)

Great Graphic Tees

Love this top? See some other ways I styled it here!

Since I don't plan on being dressed up for my entire vacation (though, I do love dressing up!) I also plan on taking a few casual outfits as well, just considering they are much more practical for things like sight seeing and strolling around Bourbon Street. And since we all know I have quite the collection of graphic tees, you bet I'll be packing some of my faves! For this cool and casual look I chose this adorable "Haute Mess" tee from SheIn, some simple denim shorts, and these adorable Micheal Kors slides! And to dress my tee up a little bit I added these Jenny Bird earrings, collar necklace, and cuff. 

(Outfit: Sunglasses by Oliver Goldsmith, Tee and Shorts from SheIn, Earrings, Collar Necklace and Cuff can be found at Rocksbox, Shoes by Micheal Kors.)

Attractively Active

Love this top? See some other ways I styled it here!

If you've been reading my blog for awhile, I'm sure you know how much I hate going to the gym and working out--though that doesn't mean that I don't do it. So while I'm on vacation, I will still continue running and exercising as normal because I know it is good for me and though I don't necessarily like putting in the work, I do love the end result. And not to mention I love the athlesiure and sports style trends so it also makes for some fun styling!

(Outfit: Sports Bra and Jacket from SheIn, Shorts by Danskin, Shoes by Nike.)

Fierce In Florals

Love this dress? See some other ways I styled it here!

If you know anything about me you know that one thing I absolutely love is BRUNCH. And if you know anything about NOLA you know that it has some of the best brunch spots in the United States, if not in the world. So, this outfit choice is for just that! This adorable floral dress is simply perfect for grabbing some beignets and coffee at Cafe Du Monde before taking a nice morning stroll through the French Quarter. To style this piece I chose to pair it with this beautiful SLATE necklace, these pretty pink Kendra Scott Earrings, and this cute cuff, along with this adorable bag from SheIn.

(Outfit: Dress from Make Me Chic, Purse from SheIn, Shoes by Anne Klein, Necklace and Earrings from Rocksbox.)

Pretty Two Pieces

Love this outfit? See some other ways I styled it here!

Last but not least, the final outfit I will be packing is this adorable two piece set from my sponsor SheIn! The reason I absolutely adore this outfit is because it is so chic and casual that you can wear it for just about any occasion. It is also light and airy so therefore keeping me comfy and cool while strolling around the streets of New Orleans. To style this cute set, I kept it simple with my trusty Chloe bag and some white and brown sandals.

(Outfit: Two Piece Set from SheIn, Bag by Chloe, Sandals by Tommy Hilfiger.)

So everybody, where are you off to on summer vacation and what will you be styling?! Let's chat about it in the comments below or you can tweet me about it at @StarkRavingChic! Have a darling vacation outfit you just need to show off? Feel free to tag me on Instagram or in your Instagram story at @StarkRavingChic. Later, dolls!

Xx, Bree

P.S. Psssssst! If you love the jewelry I styled in this post as much as I do, you can try Rocksbox for a whole month 100% FREE when you sign up using my promo code "starkravingchicxoxo". Don't know what Rocksbox is or how it works? You can learn more here!

Also, In case you haven't heard, I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!