Angela’s Lab | Fashionable Gifts to Kick-Start Your Shopping

Every year buying meaningful gifts that my friends and family will truly enjoy gets more difficult — it’s hard to come up with new ideas! Plus, the older we all get, the more we simply buy what we want for ourselves, right? I try and make a point of picking up gifts year round when I see special items that I know someone on my list would love — it helps take some of the stress out of the holidays. However, I still have a number of gifts to buy and December is going to be here before we know it.

Every year Neiman Marcus has an exclusive, curated gift collection that gives back to the community. This year, 10% of each purchase from the “Love to Give” Collection goes to The HeART of Neiman Marcus Foundation to support youth arts education in communities across the U.S. For example in Arizona, the proceeds will go to the “Celebration of the Arts for Children with Disabilities” program at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

What’s better than being able to give a beautiful gift that also gives back to your community? A few of my favorites from this special collection…

Gunmetal Bracelet, Eddie Borgo // Lip Gloss Set, Yves Saint Laurent // DIY Superhero Disguise Kit, Seedling // Mom & Mini Pajamas, Bedhead // Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Kit

Don’t delay as some of the other items have already sold out!

Here are other great gift ideas I’ve discovered as of late — I hope you find inspiration for those on your list (or for your own wish list)!

For the Beauty Queen

Who doesn’t appreciate a good blowout? I have friends that go in once a week and others who consider it more of a treat, both would enjoy a gift certificate (cute packaging!) or this “Big Hair, Don’t Care” set from Drybar. Okay, I may just need to buy this for myself…

For the Social Butterfly

For the girl on your list that can’t pass up a party, a stand-out evening clutch like this one from Alexander McQueen or a special sparkly statement necklace from ABS by Allen Schwartz will complete her night-out look. If this is you, a self-gift is definitely in order.

For the Snow Bunny

Ski season is upon us and whether you go to shred the slopes or just hang out in the lodge with a hot toddy, stylish shades from Visionworks (prescription option is a bonus!) and an après ski sweater (love this one by Townsen!) are both must-haves. We also found sporty shades from Visionworks for the ski guy on your list.

For the Fitness Buff

If you’re a runner (as in workout fiend or toddler chaser), this Zella hooded jacket is the perfect choice for casual everyday style. It comes in both regular and plus sizes making it an easy fit, and we love the built-in fingerless gloves. Another great idea for those that workout is the Urban Sanctuary Bag from Lululemon. The perfect size, it also doubles as a  carry-on travel bag.

For the Domestic Goddess

Have someone on your list that spends most of their time in the kitchen dreaming up new yummy menu offerings for their next dinner party? They will love this Tea & Crumpets Apron from Anthropologie and Jonathan Adler’s Ring Bowl to keep their jewelry safe.

For the Dog Lover

Part of the Neiman Marcus “Love to Give” Collection, these dog dishes from Dylan’s Candy Bar are darling and worthy of being left out for your furry family member to refresh throughout the day. Another option is this cute dog charm keychain from MCM.

For the Jet Setter

A jet setter must-have is a luxe designer tote bag to keep necessities within easy reach while traveling. This leather tote by Valentino is perfectly studded and stunning. For a more affordable gift, we love this cute Kate Spade New York passport holder.

Happy Shopping!!