Gift Guide for the Hard to Find

Oh, yes! And, oh, no! It's gift-giving time -- Christmas is only 25 days away, and that means less than a month to do some major shopping. So, okay, maybe you've already started shopping. Maybe you're like my mom, who can start shopping for the holidays in July. Or, perhaps, you're more of a last-minute kind of shopper. I personally fall in between the two -- after Thanksgiving I start "thinking" about gifts and then start my hard core shopping the first or second week in December. This year, however, I've made a decision to do most of my shopping on line. Not only will it save on gas (points for being green!), but I also won't have to deal with the crowds. Here are a few gift ideas from some cool Web sites that offer unique stuff at great prices. Happy Holiday Shopping!

For the Bookworm...

Magnetic Origami Bookmarks (set of 5), Girl of All Work, $6.50

For the Trendsetter...

Camelia Rings by Mixko, Greener Grass Design, $24

For the Decorator...

Monogram Glass Tray, Valchea, $14 each

For the Artist...

Doodlebook Frame, Delight.com, $18.50

For the Wine Lover...

Chalk Note Stemless Wine Glass, Pier 1 Imports, $3 each

For the Chocoholic...

Berger Cookies 15oz., $5

For the Co-worker...

Useless, Nothing, Nosy File Folder, Knock Knock, $9

Happy Thanksgiving!

On a day where we give thanks for the goodness in our lives, I thought it would be appropriate to express my gratitude for the things I am thankful for. Neither shoes nor the perfect dress, the best bargain or the last minute deals, are what makes me thankful. It's what some may think of as insignificant or mundane -- the simple things in life that we all take for granted. Music, children's laughter, a fresh pot of coffee, the unconditional love from a dog, clean air, unexpected compliments, pickles, my faith, recycling, John Cusack movies, nonconformists, happy hour, apple pie... and the list can go on and on.

But above all, I am most thankful for the one thing that inspires me to be a better person: HOPE. More importantly, the ability to hope, to hope for things that can make our lives and those around us better. And this year in particular, all of us in America and around the world were given a chance to see what that little word can do for the spirit of humanity. We witnessed for the first time in American history two women and a black man break barriers and give everyone a sense of hope that no matter who you are, where you come from or what color your skin is, you can be anything you hope for. And for that, I am immensely thankful.

Favorite Stores: Part 2

Although I don't frequent these stores as often as I should, The Limited, N.Y. & Co. and Express are definitely the menage a trois of fashion frugality.

They have the foundation of basics, but are able to capture the newest trends and styles from the runways. And, they offer it all at a price that 20- and 30-year old women professionals can afford.

Here are just a sampling of what they offer. You can mix and match just about all of the pieces, and all of them are under $70. What's better than that?!

The Limited

Belted Shirtdress, $69.50; Quilted Satin Tote, $54.50

Colorblock Blouse, $49.50; Draped Satin Skirt, $69.50


New York & Company

City Style Striped Cardigan, $36.95; City Style Button-Down Shirt w/ Bow, $34.95


Collection Woven Paper Bag Skirt, $48

Express

Buckle-Cuff Mock-Neck Sweater, $29.50; Stella Bootcut Jean, $69.50

Favorite Stores: Part 1

I've decided to catalog some of my favorite stores for my fellow Bargain Chic readers. These are places that I think offer stylish clothes at reasonable prices. I may also throw in some higher-end stores, but most of those will be for their awesome sales.

My first pick is Ann Taylor LOFT. I love this store! Some seasons it is hit and miss there, but more often than not they have great deals on clothes that are classic and sophisticated. I have to admit, most of the clothes in my closet have the Ann Taylor LOFT label on them, but what can I say -- I love a bargain chic find!

What's even better is that Ann Taylor LOFT always has tons of sale items. So, if one day you really fall in love with something but just can't afford it right then, check back a few weeks later, and I'll guarantee you it'll be on sale. And, to boot, they also have tons of promotions for discounts and coupons.

Here are just a few looks that epitomize why I love the LOFT so much.

Wool Canvas Funnel Neck Coat, $119.99; Floral Print Roll Neck Sweater, $39.99; Ponte Marisa Flare Leg Pants, $39.99; Quilted Patent Tote, $59.99



Ruffle Shell by Trulli, $49; Ann Stretch Boot Leg Pants, $59; Serina Satin D'Orsay, $69; Pleated Satin Clutch, $39

Election Day Party Dress

Whether you're from a blue state or a red state, this Tuesday will be a historic day for our country. And whatever your political persuasion, the excitement of it all deserves to be celebrated. So, what better way to do that than have a party for your party! If you're a tried and true red-stater or a bold and brazen blue-stater, check out these party dresses that will wow any party!

If you've got a few extra bucks...

Oragami Front Dress, Valentino, $3,750


Lace-Rose Silk Dress, Valentino, $9,990

If you need to save a few extra bucks...

Stretch Satin Sheath Dress, Maggy London, $168


Strapless Chiffon Dress, Maggy London, $158