Outfit Post: Holiday Dress Code

While Monday's are typically my new outfit posts, couldn't resist sharing this just before Christmas and while you're starting to think about how to fancy up for New Year's Eve. I purchased this dress back in October and wore it just once to dinner at III Forks (yum!). However, I felt it begged for more! We had three soirees to hit up this past Saturday. As soon as I put on the dress, I was ready for a night out! {unfort, my cold meds wore off a bit early... boo! This chick had to nix the last party in favor of crawling under the covers!}.

I love this dress because it's a no brainer. It looks like I effortlessly put together the perfect skirt and blouse but it's just one, with an exposed zipper down the back and those delicate tiers I'm totally digging lately. Best of all: I scored this on a serious sale at Bloomies. This necklace with its oversized black and gold baubles has also been asking for attention: since buying it at Loehmann's I've only worn it once. I'm just working my way into bold jewelry so I'm excited I found another reason to wear it. As soon as I put it on with this dress and these velvetty heels: Voila! I felt hot! Isn't that the best feeling?

dress: i.n.c. international concepts

necklace: not sure brand, from loehmann's

heels: bcbg

black watch: swatch

black/gold bangle: from lord & taylor, nyc

nail polish: opi's yes you can can

 

5 Must Haves: Gifts for Holidays 2010

Meet Lindsay. She's one of my besties and I have to say she's absolutely one of the coolest, smartest, wittiest, most beautiful and fabulous friends a gal could have. She's infinitely thoughtful and caring, and one of the most driven women I know. While she's all these things by day, at night she morphs into a no-nonesense television reporter in Seattle. PS: as a gal bloggin' from South Florida, could she move any further away from me?! Just sayin').

I'm honored to have her as my friend and to have her contribute her 5 must have... gifts to give your loved ones this holiday season. I love that this is her 5 must haves topic... she always gives good, thoughtful gifts appropriate for the person. And, this list is no exception... check out her awesome ideas for every type of person in your life.


Without further ado, here's Lindsay's 5 must have... gifts to give this holiday season, in her words.

Preface: if you're anything like me, you have friends and family that are tough to buy gifts for. They either have everything - or don't want anything. The way I try to get around this: anytime I see something great from January - November -- either in person, at a party, or in a magazine -- I make a note on the notepad on my iPhone. Then, when the holidays roll around, voila! Instant gift-giving guide.

Here are a few things I'm loving as gifts this holiday season:

Roll-up Keyboard... or something for less tech-savvy

For the techie in your life: the Spi roll-up keyboard. Great for the businessman, the traveler, your brother who's a consultant who's racked up a million frequent flier miles this year. Plus, it's totally portable and connects easily to a laptop via USB. At $20 - $23, it's completely affordable, too.

A little less tech-savvy? Say, still holding on to those slides from the 1980's (like, my dad)? I love the idea of a slide converter. My dad spent my entire childhood creating those carousels filled with family memories, and this is an easy way for him to upgrade them for the 21st century. Bonus: the VuPoint Solutions slide converter is both Mac and PC compatible, and costs less than $100! (Hope you're not reading this, Dad!)

The "Callet" (... keep reading)

For your best girlfriend: hate carrying a cell phone plus a clunky wallet when you're out for a night on the town? Remember that Letterman segment "If They Mated?"

Well, if these two had a kid, it'd be The Callet. It's a cell phone case with a wallet built into it... and only $15. Cheaper than a cocktail on South Beach! Brilliant.





CREATIVE GIFTS FOR BEER, VINO FAN

For your brother, brother-in-law, or that boss of yours who loves a good microbrew: Beer Wars (the movie) and a six-pack of your favorite microbrew (I love Northwest holiday brew Jubelale: http://www.deschutesbrewery.com/splash/default.aspx). You will never look at your Bud Light the same after seeing this movie. It's "Food Inc." for the beer industry, reminding you why it's important to support the small brewer, on both a business and taste level. Pair it with your favorite microbrew, and, voila! Instant gift.

On the same token, for someone who is more into cocktails, I love pairing a Bartender's Guidebook with a classic cocktail shaker. It's an inexpensive gift, and for a personal touch, put the recipe for your favorite cocktail in the card.

ROCKIN' SHIRT

For that rockstar kid in your life: how about the t-shirt that plays music? Check out this kids rock star guitar shirt that actually plays music. One of my coworkers wore this to the office and played "Smoke on the Water." I was instantly in love! I know my 4 year old nephew - who is learning to play guitar - will love this (and yes, it really works!)

TAGG comment: ummm, awesome! Can they make one in purple because we totally want to rock this! Seriously. Ok, now picture running into me in the mall... do you run the other way or ask to play my shirt?? ;)

FUN-SHAPE SANDWICH CUTTERS
For the mom with young kiddies, I love these puzzle-shaped sandwich cutters. These are dishwasher safe and BPA free, and cost less than $15. Love, love, love. Making lunchtime fun!




Happy holidays, everyone! May your December be merry and bright.

Divine Deal: Gifts for Her

Time to shop! And, shopping for a gal can be so much fun. It can be challenging though because us gals are more likely to buy whatever we need instead of waiting for it for a gift. So, if you're searching for a gift for your sister, aunt, relative, friend, partner, co-worker, whoever, here's some suggestions to get you going.

When shopping, really keep in mind the person. Think about them, who they are and what they'd want. Just because you found "the coolest thing ever," it doesn't mean it's for them (though maybe it's for you!). And, maybe they're not into any of these items? Consider taking them to a cooking class, to a sporting event or concert, or another memorable experience you two can enjoy together.


CRAZY-COMFY SLIPPERS

You want comfy slippers? These are them. While I'm normally not a super UGG fan -- I mean they're OK but those boots have been worth to death and you can get so many affordable versions now -- these look like a slice of heaven. A total splurge for a gal in your life, she's likely to love you forever. There's a ton of styles I love, ranging from about $70-$140, and best of all, most come with a solid sole (of varying levels of thickness) so you can kind of get away with wearing them to run to the post office or another quick errand. And, if you live where it snows, you can pick up the mail without worry of losing a toe from frostbite! There's versions that do and do not cover the whole heel; your call! Here's the "UGG scuffette II" from Zappos for $70 (and love how Zappos has free shipping both ways!).
Lower price alternative: if the UGG brand doesn't matter to you, try this look-alike ($36) from Zappos for half the price!


HEAVENLY CHOCOLATE

I should tell you I'm a chocolate expert. A few years back I did a chocolate tasting for a friend's magazine article. We tested chocolates from $2 to $100 a box and this chocolate was the clear winner. It's called Vosges Haute Chocolat. What makes it so special is that not only is the chocolate such high quality, but they infuse it with the most interesting ingredients. While the basic milk and dark chocolate bars are perfect, infusions for the truffles and bars include curry, ancho & chipotle chiles, Michigan cherries, applewood bacon & sea salt, ginger and wasabi, almonds, everything! It's really something special. Check out the site; there's a number of options under $30. My recommendations: the dark exotic candy bar collection with nine mini bars ($25); the holiday mini candy bar library with nine mini bars ($25) or one of the truffle collections ($26). Promise this is worth spending money on. Your gift receiver will savor every bite.

COZY WINE SLEEVES

Want to bring a bottle of wine to a fab hostess for a holiday party this season? Wrap it special! How festive is this 'sweater' sleeve made from vintage sweaters and hand sewn? It's thoughtful, special and one-of-a-kind. Instead of a lame little note somehow affixed to the side of the bottle, here's a way to really show you took the time to care... and it makes sure that your vino stays cozy! Who doesn't want that? Best of all, this thoughtful gift only runs you about $9.99. We say, yes please!
TAGG tip: if you're a tad bit creative, try making these yourself! Find the fabric, or buy a sweater at goodwill, pull together around the bottle and wrap with ribbon. Voila! For a tacky sweater party, would be hysterical if you did this with a hideous sweater as a hostess gift!


GLEE... anything

Do you have a GLEE-K in your life or a wanna-be? Well, then you must purchase at least one of these two items: Glee, the music, the Christmas album ($9.99). Umm, hello... joyful holiday music sung by our country's most popular, nerdy high school students?! Yes, please. Sign me up. Another option? Glee, the complete first season on DVD ($38.99). Whether it's someone who's a full-fledged gleek who gets up and dances and faux sings to the songs (don't judge) or if you know someone who's been meaning to watch, this is absolutely perfect. Feel free to package it along side some popcorn or your giftee's favorite treat.




SWEET READS

I wish I read more. That being said, sometimes I just feel like I need personalized book recommendations by someone who knows me... or, I just need the books in my house. One year for my birthday a girlfriend who's a totally book nerd in the most glorious way asked me what I wanted. I said your favorite books that you think I'd love. Needless to say, I devoured the pages! While this gift isn't for everyone, which is? Maybe you loved the Harry Potter series and every time you mention it you have a friend who keeps saying, "man, I'd love to read that." Well, get that gal started! Or, did you just read a NYTimes Bestseller that you know is a must for your sister? Treat her to it! And, explain in your card when you selected it... I'm telling you, it's the gifts from the heart that are the most well received! Play on Amazon to find your favorites (at the best price!) or the hottest new selections.

Black Friday Fun

Hope you're having a wonderful Thankgiving and fab extended weekend with family and friends! While I'm taking a small blog posting break, I'm keeping busy on Facebook and Twitter. Find me there to access fun tips and even better deals and discounts:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theaveragegirlsguide
Twitter: www.twitter.com/avggirlsguide

xo

NOW: Shop smart

All you can think about is shopping for the holidays, right? Well, you're not the only one: the average person expects to spend $688.87 on holiday-related items this season! Wowza, that's definitely more than my budget this year.

Personally, I don't think Black Friday is the best time to go shopping -- those crowds, the insanity, eek -- because unless you're out at 3 am to get one of three big-screen TVs available, you most likely can get the similar deals by just being a smart shopper all-year-round. If you must however, check out http://www.theblackfriday.com/. Deals for "Cyber Monday," the new shopping "holiday" the Monday after Thanksgiving, can be found at http://www.cybermonday.com/.

Want to shop smart? Take this advice:
- Register for ShopItToMe: it's a free, online personal shopper! I've been a fan for 2+ years and it has more than three million subscribers. Just tell the site your favorite stores and brands, and voila, you get a daily email telling you what's on sale. Do this instead of visiting a million web sites each day scouring for the best price. Saves tons of time and money.

- Shop online through Ebates: hope you're already doing this! I've made $30 this Fall just shopping like I normally do; only exception is that I click first through Ebates, a portal site that gives you a percentage back (anywhere from 2-15 percent!) on more than 1,200 retailers. Best of all, you get $5 after you make your first purchase and Ebates often has coupon codes to add to your savings. This holiday, buying online (especially since many sites offer free shipping at lower price points than usual) can add up to savings and less hassle.

- Register for online sites to save: You can score designer clothes, discounts to restaurants, sporting events, yoga classes and way more just by accessing a few key sites. Head to Gilt, Swirl, Rue La La, Zulily (perfect for kids, moms and babes), Beyond the Rack, Ideeli and Jasmere (new; awesome for mostly food and other great gift items) for the best sample sales. And, do not forget about Groupon, the best way to get up to 90 percent off local finds in your area.

- Make a list and stick to it. Decide who you need to buy for and how much you plan to spend; try to have some ideas in advance so you don't buy needless items. Keep receipts so you can return if you find something else or the same item at a better price.

- Shop before the big sales: Many stores will give you the price difference if an item goes on sale within a few days of purchase, both apparel and electronics. Double check before you buy, though; it sometimes does not apply to Black Friday specials.

- Gift exchanges with friends and fam: Stick to a small amount, $10 or $20, and do a "Secret Santa" type exchange where everyone secretly picks someones name out of a hat and buys that person a gift. This way each person gets one nicer gift instead of six kind of crappy ones.

- Get rid of gift certificates you don't like: check out Card Pool, a site that buys your gift cards back from you for a pretty good percentage. If you don't like what you have, don't force yourself to buy something or hold on to it for so long it's worth nothing. If it's a store that you can't even buy a gift for someone in, take advantage of Card Pool and get cash for that piece of plastic wasting space.

- In 2011, start thinking about next year: want to do way better next year and find the perfect gift? Don't wait until now! If you're like me, what you're looking for is never there for us last-minute shoppers. You're way better off if you're keeping your eyes open all-year long.

- And, of course, stay connected to The Average Girl's Guide: What better way to learn about the latest fashion and products, discounts and deals, and more, right? Keep it right here, yo!

Happy savvy shopping!

Win it: Stylish Jewelry, Fab Scarf

You've been waiting for it, you've been asking about it, and now here it is: OUR HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY! It's your chance to win stylish, delicious accessories from the uber-awesome H&M! Not familiar with this shop? It's sort of like Forever 21 on serious crack (is that comment socially inappropriate?! Hmm, I digress). H&M brings super stylish, quality to everyone and also has designer collaborations (Hello, Lanvin is coming this month!). They're expanding quickly in the U.S. but so far it's mostly along the east coast and just two in Florida. You want a piece of the action?

Here's the scoop:

Enter to win one of two prizes (just in time for the holidays, no less!). Here's your choices:

1. A jewelry smorgasbord ($26 value) featuring an oversized onyx and silver cocktail ring; a glitzy bracelet set in black tones with faux diamond bracelets and more (I bought this for me; LOVE, love for a night out or just two or three to shimmer up any outfit!); a rugged bracelet set in brown tones with leather studded bracelet, rope and more; and a faboo glamorous black headband that I'm so mad that I didn't get for me. It might be more elaborate than you're used to, but it looks gorgeous on and the black makes sure it's not over-the-top.
 

2. A bold, colorful scarf ($15 value) that goes with absolutely everything! Don't let the following description throw you off because I can't describe it as wonderfully as it looks: actually, ya know what? I'm not describing it because my almost description stinks! Check out the photo... wrapped up on the left and laid out on the right.  Funky yet totally awesome when tied up, right? With every color of the rainbow popping through, this would make a shlubby tee look instantly stylish. Wear this bad boy every day.

Here's how you win (required, just once):
Comment on this page, telling me which giveaway you want to win. Entries must be received by Sunday, Nov. 28 and the winner will be announced Tuesday, Nov. 30 on this post, on Facebook and on Twitter. If selected, you must reply within 72 hours, otherwise I'll be sadly forced to contact the next person.

Additional entries:
1. Fan Us On Facebook (one entry): "Like" The Average Girl's Guide on Facebook.

2. Tell your Facebook friends about TAGG (once daily): Tell your friends to check out the Facebook page of your fav new site for fashion, deals, food, fun and more by updating your status with mention of us. Write our name with the @ symbol before so it reads @TheAverageGirl'sGuide... do this because it will create a link so I'll see when you've done this. If it doesn't become a link, I won't know you're sending fb love my way (though I will appreciate it!).

3. Subscribe to this blog (one entry): just click "follow" along the right-hand column
 
4. Follow Us On Twitter (once): follow The Average Girl's Guide on Twitter and comment to this post to let us know.

5. Tweet about the contest (once daily): Tell your friends on Twitter about the contest. The tweet must include @avggirlsguide to qualify.
 

Well, that's the scoop on our giveaway! Easy enough to qualify and winning is so much fun!
--xo, The Average Gal

Fab Find Make-up at a great price!

Must tell you about two totally fab make-up lines with super deals today and through the holiday season.

Stila, a great line of quality make-up known for its gorgeous line of colors and awesome packaging, is starting its holiday gift packages. I'm a procrastinator, so it's a little early to be thinking about gift giving but never to early to take advantage of super deals on awesome products, be it for me or someone else.

You MUST check out some of these sales. For example, check out this "trendsetting in tokyo" palette that let's you sample all of these colors for just $10! $65 value here. And how adorable is the packaging?? Take this everywhere with me! Love the fun eye shadow colors and bright multi-use pink shade. 

And, this Stila lip glaze set for just $25. Seriously? It's a $110 value that let's you sample every color all-season long. Totally loving this for me AND some friends, fam and coworkers. Every gal under the sun would love this as a gift.

There's so many other deals at Stila, too, in all price ranges. Totally worth roaming around there for a while to check it out.

Now, if you're going the more economical route, e.l.f is where it's at. It's super-discount make-up available online. I've ordered a few items once before and was very pleased with the eye shadows and nail polishes. Can't comment on the other items; it's been too long. However, for these microscopic prices, test out a few items and colors you've been wanting to without the worry that you're dropping $150 on who-knows-if-I'll-really-wear-that-color-after-I-leave-the-pushy-saleslady. Plus, today only -- for Columbus Day -- get free shipping with any purchases over $15 when you use the coupon code SHIP. That could be a dozen products to play with. Woohooooo!

Here's one product to check out: This limited-edition eye shadow palette is just $10! Hold on, we're having a moment. This is freaking awesome.  Plan a girls night around this... meet at someones house and everyone gets a different color combination!

Another deal? These hypershine lip glosses for just $1 that Allure magazine raved about in its Sept. issue. They were partial to the baby pink and lilac colors called fairy and joy. For one buck, that's about a penny per application.

e.l.f has so many more options, including mineral make-up and a new bath and body line with fruity scents to test out. Let us average gals know if you discover a favorite new product!

Mmm: Stay Slim Tips this Holiday Weekend

Woohoo, long holiday weekend on the horizon! That means fun in the sun and... lots of great food! Just because it's a holiday though, doesn't mean your body takes a break from counting those calories! I wish! As a Weight Watcher lifetime member (woot woot!), I know there are tips and tricks to getting by without going crazy. Here's just a few to keep in mind:

1. Remember that this meal, and this weekend, will not be your last one! You don't have to eat everything in sight. If I'm really watching myself I sometimes won't have one bite of the danger items because I know I don't have the self control to have just the one bite. But hey, maybe you're stronger willed than I am...

2. Heading to a BBQ? Beware! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken kebabs, fish or lean steaks. Don't assume turkey burgers are lower in fat than regular beef ones, and totally offer to bring your own meat if the host if welcome to it. Then, you can bring your fav lean protein, or even Boca burgers! And, throw veggies on the grill. Corn on the cob, onions, mushrooms, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes... it's all yummy! Just put a dash of olive oil, salt and pepper on first and you're good to go.

3. Need something to munch on? Head to the veggie platter, dipped in hummus if it's there. If you're craving chips, seek out popchips. I wrote about them in a previous post. They're super crunchy and delicious and way lower in fat and calories than other brands... and have more flavor than the baked iterations.

4. Avoid mindless eating. It's easy to pop a few cheese cubes without even realizing, but trust me that your body will still tack on an a cool 200 or so calories. What a waste! That's a candy bar worth and you wasted it on cheese cubes! Look for fruit, veggies, low fat pop corn, chips and pretzels.

5. Watch out for those creamy sides. Potato and macaroni salads might have the word 'salad' but they're anything but healthy. Same goes for the coleslaw. Made with fatty mayonnaise, those puppies are laden with fat and calories. Go for field greens, pickles and other lower-cal options. If you eat these first, you'll be less likely to eat as much of the bad stuff.

6. Don't drink your calories! This is one of my favorite expressions. You can indulge in drinks, but don't waste 400+ calories on one of those creamy frozen ones. Opt for wine, light beer and cocktails with diet soda or low-sugar juices. Vodka paired with Fresca or LS Cranberry and a lime? Yes, please! And, some beers have 60 or so calories now. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water during the day if you're outside. Not only will it keep you hydrated, it will also fill you up.

7. Start moving! It's still gorgeous out in most parts of the country so take advantage and get a game of volleyball, Frisbee or bocce ball going, swim in the pool (or just do some leg moves while hanging on the side)  or take a sunset walk. My motto is, any movement is better than none at all!

8. And, last, but not least... if you mess up, don't give up! Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle is a lifetime commitment. I'm sure I've messed up all of these at some point but I've lost 35 lbs and I'll be damned if they all come back!

Passover tastiness made easy

With few exceptions, when it comes to Passover dishes can be a bit dry. Think matzoh in everything. But then last year I had a realization: I don't need to buy egg noodles, unleavened crackers and all sorts of gimmicky items when heck, I don't typically eat this stuff anyway!

Don't want to stop anyone from eating matzoh brei (sprinkle a dash of cinnamon sugar on it for a hint of heavenly sweetness!) or good ol' matzoh pizza, but this year think about your typically eat every night of the week. Head to your BBQ and get grilling: cook some chicken and vegetables (I love eggplant, zucchini, squash, etc). All they need is some olive oil, salt and pepper. Make a big salad with chicken or tuna salad on top. Do breakfast for dinner and make an omelet with fresh veggies and your fav cheese (my vote goes to feta!). Make chicken, eggplant or a veggie-stack parm. Enjoy steak and potatoes -- they're K for P, too! There's really no limits.

Jewish or not, think of this as an opportunity to eat fresh, healthy food. Eliminate the packaged foods and carb loading. And, if you're still struggling.... head to TooJays or your favorite local deli!

Coming tomorrow: my simple recipe for a no-fail, tasty sweet potato pie. Mmmm.