STYLE | Gift Bags

Michael Kors Selma Tote in black and sapphire blue.

Holiday gift shopping is one of the most daunting experiences you will have.  Whether you are buying for your mom, best friend or girlfriend, a purse is something that a woman will use almost every single day.  It's a gift that will keep on giving.  If you want to put a smile on her face Christmas morning, get her what nearly every woman wants; a designer handbag. 

If she is a style maven then she's the kind of woman who would embrace something different.  She will appreciate rich color, different shapes, details and mixed textures.  For the traditional woman stick to simple styles like a tote, satchel or clutch.  Avoid all the extra details like studs, jewels and extra hardware since she is more of the simple type.  

Take advantage of all the great deals at this time of year.  Many big brands have outlet stores where you can find some of their best-sellers and favorites for a discounted price.
    

Tory Burch triangle tote bag.

Coach Madison Phoebe shoulder bag.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Tate satchel.

Is Renting the New Shopping Habit?

Gucci vintage Boston Bag

Ever dreamed of owning your own designer bag but just couldn’t afford it?  Or how about a new evening gown or suit for that upcoming event?  Well lucky for you there are places now where you can rent something you need for the amount of time you want.  I'm not talking about traditional rental shops but online stores like the Germany based Erento where you can rent anything from handbags to computers and even luxury cars.  The website has already received positive reviews from BBC, The Financial Times, MSNBC and CNN International.  Bloomberg Businessweek called Erento "the eBay for rentals".

I found it fascinating that you can rent a Lamborghini for just over £1000/day ($1600USD/day).  Envision stepping out of this luxury car and having all eyes on you as you give the Valet Parking attendant the keys.  For most it's only a dream.  But with websites like Erento, it can be a reality.


It's also a great way to give a gift that is really an experience like no other.  There are yachts, boats and so much more you can rent for someone on their birthday or to celebrate a special event.

Jaguar XK8.
Find an assortment of luxury cars on erento.co.uk.

The global economy has continued to remain unstable for several years and even the wealthy are scaling back on buying goods.  It makes sites like this the perfect alternative to having the things you want at a fraction of the cost.

For fashionistas I'm sure you'll love being able to carry an original Gucci handbag or an authentic Chloe and the classic Prada.  You'll find something to satisfy your desire; even if only for a few days.   

How does it work?  Well it's as simple as three easy steps.

1. Go to the site and select the items you would like to rent.
2. You'll notice the items are available in various locations around the world.  Contact the owner through the website to make arrangements and determine the terms of rental.  There is no obligation with the initial contact.
3. Schedule your pick up and delivery.

It's as simple as that.  To read more about what's available right now, visit the website at www.erento.co.uk.

Great Last Minute Gift Ideas

Time is ticking and Christmas is less than 36 hours away and while some of you may already have your shopping done, there are plenty who have yet to finish.  Some who haven't even started.  

Here are some gift ideas for the last minute shopper that won't disappoint.


Gifts for Him:
For the sports fan, get him tickets to see his favourite team.  Most of these can be purchased online these days so there's no need to worry about getting to the box office.

If he's a die-hard gamer you may want to check the website http://store.steampowered.com/ as a source for downloading games that are both compatible with the PC and MAC platform.

Navigation systems are a great item to give your guy.  It seems they never want to admit when they are lost so having one of these will make him really feel like he never lost his way. GPS systems are very reasonably priced these days as low as $100 at most retailers.

Anything Apple.  iPod, iPad, iTunes.  If you want to really make an impressions get him a MacBook.

Gifts for Her:

Gift Certificates to her favourite spa or salon are a great idea that you know she'll use.

Stylish mobile phone cases are always a hit.  You know she uses her phone every day and this will be a reminder of something special you gave her.

Movies and music are always a good choice.  Pick a boxed DVD or Blue-Ray set of her favourite TV series or movie.

Scarves are a trend item that will work for any woman.  Especially during the cold winter months.  Find a scarf with texture or an interesting pattern that will be a great accent to any outfit.  She can stay warm while looking great.

Victoria Secret gift certificates.

Jewelry.  Plain and simple you can never go wrong by picking some jewelry for any woman.  Earrings, bracelets, necklaces and if you're serious get that ring.

Gifts for yourself:

I know that sometimes when I go shopping I can't resist a great deal.  The mission might be to shop for someone else but, you get caught up and end up getting gifts....for yourself!  Here are great ways to treat you!

• Spa Treatments
• Cozy blankets
• Accessories
• Make a charitable donation