SixtywithStyle

 Winter is in full swing here in the Midwest and so are my dry hands! The skin on our hands is thin and has few oil glands. With the cold and dry winter air, our hands really take a beating.  Add the dryness associated with aging and it is no wonder our hands are cracked and dry.

As we age, our hands need extra care.  I believe that well manicured hands and nails become especially important as we grow older.  Today, I am sharing some tips I hope you find helpful for keeping our hands and nails looking their best.

 

1. PROTECT YOUR HANDS

This tip may seem rather obvious. However, it is amazing how many women I see in the frigid weather without gloves. The winter outdoor air and wind wreak havoc on the fine skin of our hands.  Aside from that, I hate having cold hands. I know our coats usually have pockets, but they don’t offer the same form of proection.  Select gloves that fit properly.  Ideally they should not be too tight, but fit snugly. A tiny air gap at the top of the fingertips is ideal.

 These fabulous cashmere lined leather gloves will keep you nice and toasty. They also have touchscreen compatible fingertips. Leather gloves looks equally stylish with a down jacket or a wool dress coat.

If you spend more time outdoors and need an extra layer of hand protection, try liner gloves inside your favorite gloves.  These merino wool liner gloves are just right to ensure your hands and fingers have the added warmth you crave.

 

2. MOISTURIZE AFTER EVERY HAND WASHING

Soap strips the oil from our hands, and hand sanitizer with alcohol is extra harsh. To counteract the dryness after hand washing, followup with a rich hand cream. Use lotion/cream specifically designed for hands.  This is an item I love to splurge on.  I keep one each by the kitchen sink, bathroom sinks, and in my handbag. Hmmm… maybe I should also keep one in my car. I admit I’m a sucker for the beautifully scented ones that are super emollient.

 

L’OCCITANE Lavender Hand Cream is my favorite hand cream! The richness of the shea butter cream and the heavenly lavender scent propel this one to the top of my list. If lavender isn’t your scent, try one of their other amazing choices.  Their handcreams leave your hands soft and moist without an oily residue. They recently paired with the Rifle Paper Company, so their new packaging is divine.  L’OCCITANE also offers delightful gift sets.

 

3. MOISTURIZE YOUR CUTICLES

Not only are our hands dry, but our cuticles get those unsightly hangnails and dry skin around our nails.  I find applying cuticle oil before bed at night aids in keeping the dryness under control.

 Apply some bee naturals cuticle and nail oil to soothe your dry cuticles and nails.  We think of moisturizing our hands, but nails need moisture too. Rich tee tree oils combine with vitamin E to smooth our cuticles and add needed moisture and strength to our nails. Did I mention its lovely lavender and lemon scent?

 

4. MANICURE YOUR NAILS

Take the time to manicure your nails weekly.  If you lack manicuring skills, (I know I do!)  have them professionally manicured. The basic process (whether done yourself or by a professional) should include trimming nails, pushing back or trimming cuticles, filing nails (always in one direction-not back and forth), moisurizing hands and fingers, and buffing nails or applying polish to them. When applying polish, always include a base coat to avoid staining your nails. A top coat not only protects the polish but also adds shine. I could devote a whole post to nails and  nail colors – perhaps I will in the near future.  I have had no-chip manicures for the past several years.  In January I decided to give my nails a break and have naturally polished nails. In the featured picture at the top of the page, I am sporting my natural nails with a pale pink polish. I purchased the polish and took it to my favorite local salon for them to apply.  This allows me to touch up my nails as needed using the same polish.

I selected a pale pink polish for late winter wear.  Lighter colors seem to last longer on my nails and a chip doesn’t show as easily as a darker color does.  I also feel a more neutral color works well with any clothing I choose to wear. (OK – I admit I wear a lot of black) In the photo at the top I am wearing OPI Mimosas for Mr. and Mrs. nail color. Another favorite pale polish of mine is OPI Bubble Bath. Shorter nails are more becoming on older hands and function well with all the technology I use on a daily basis.

 

Winter is here to stay for a while. Don’t let your hands suffer.  Give them the love and care they deserve. I hope you find my tips useful in helping your hands brave the remainder of winter. Stay warm!

XO,

Linda

 

 

 

 

 

 When we think of the little black dress, we assume it will be of the cocktail dress variety. However, a basic black dress need not be fancy to be functional for a multitude of occasions.  I look for dresses that are not overly clingy, have quality fabric and construction, are knee length to midi length and reasonably priced.

Today, I am sharing two of the favorite black dresses in my wardrobe.

Above, I am wearing a black cashmere sweater dress. Our winters are cold here in Chicago, and when I need to dress up a bit more I still like to be warm. I’ve added a scarf for further warmth and style and paired it with black tights and knee high dress boots.

 The cashmere dress I am wearing is by Everlane. I love the cashmere from this brand! This dress skims the body, doesn’t cling, is soft, has a flattering v-neck, and a perfect slightly below knee length. I envision a multitude of ways to wear it. Throw on a jean jacket for a casual look. Wear with booties and bare legs in warmer weather. Dress it up with jewelry and heels. So many options!

 In this photo, taken last summer, I am wearing a different simple black dress. I have it styled casually with a jean jacket, and sandals.

 I am wearing this Eileen Fischer tank dress. I can’t say enough about how great this dress is! It’s a polished jersey knit that truly flows over the body. I’ve worn it with both flip flops and out to dinner in a nice restaurant with statement jewelry. The midi length is flattering with flat sandals or heels. Add a jean jacket as I have for casual wear or a beautiful wrap for evening. Another bonus, it’s great for travel – no wrinkles.

I still love a fabulous black cocktail dress, but sometimes we need something that goes the distance for lots of occasions. I hope you are inspired to shop for “simple black dresses” and not just “little black dresses”!

XO,

Linda

 

New York, New York! My husband and I just returned from a fabulous long weekend in New York City.  The picture above was taken as we approached LaGuardia. The trip was a surprise Christmas gift from my daughter and her husband. Thank you again Caitlyn and Jimmy!

From early in the morning until late into the night we soaked up as much of this beautiful city as we could. Every time I am here, I marvel at its size, energy, diversity, culture, restaurants, nightlife, architecture, the list goes on and on!

Today, I am sharing some of the highlights of our trip. I hope you enjoy my musings and are also inspired to take some time to visit or revisit this amazing city!

 Our home base for the weekend adventure was gorgeous and regal,  The St. Regis in Midtown. Located conveniently two blocks from Central Park and on the corner of 5th Avenue and between Park Aveneue and 55th, this location was perfect for our trip!

Our suite was exquisite and service impeccable.

We deposited our luggage and ventured out. We explored the beautiful Plaza Hotel lobby with a destination in mind. Food!

Quite hungry after our flight, we headed to the Plaza Food Hall. Located inside the Plaza Hotel is an upscale food court of sorts with a vast array of choices. It’s a bit of a hidden secret and a favorite for lunch with locals.

 We settled on Luke’s Lobster. Who doesn’t love lobster rolls? Lobster is one of life’s greatest foods!

A stroll through central park is just what we needed after our indulgence. We enjoyed precipitation free, sunny weather all weekend.

A hot shower beckoned to rejuvinate us after travel and a full day. Where do these hotels get such amazing bath/shower etc. products?!

After a bit of rest and refresh, we headed out to Bobo for dinner. An intimate, charming French restaurant located in the West Village provided a different feel than Midtown. I had a delightful filet au poivre with pommes frites and Bill tried the grilled octopus and then a seared hangar steak. Our meals were delicious and service excellent!

 Next up was a visit to the Comedy Cellar. Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, this is THE place for comedy. We laughed our way through 6 different stand up comedians!  Many of these comedians have national recognition appearing regulary on network television, cable and in movies!

After a long day, we retired to our hotel in anticipation of another fun day ahead.

A hearty breakfast started our day off right.

 

A walk down Fifth Avenue was in order Saturday morning. We did pop in a few of the stores just because it is Fifth Avenue after all!

A visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral should be on everyone’s list in Manhattan. They recently completed a $200,000,000 restoration on the church.  It looks outstanding.  Bill took an opportunity for a friendly chat with one of the priests.

 

 Rockefeller Plaza and its surrounding area added to a pleasurable morning. We missed the TODAY show in production, but peeked inside the windows to envision what takes place there daily.

 

I have been hearing great things about the new Restoration Hardware in NYC, so I had to see it.  I love their store in downtown Chicago, so I was anxious to compare. The building’s aesthetic is in keeping with their meatpacking district location. Wow, what a transformation this area is experiencing. The store/restaurant is beautiful, but I have to say I’m partial to its Chicago location in a Gold Coast mansion.

Walk on the High Line! We were only a few blocks from this engineering marvel and decided to take advantage of a beautiful winter afternoon with a walk on it. If you don’t know, the High Line was built on an elevated freight line. The old train tracks are incorporated into the elevated park space. The 1.45 mile trail boasts beautiful landscaping, gardens, and art.

We were off to an icon in the home furnishings industry next. I knew I would love ABC Carpet and Home. My design background craves these places. There are so many interesting and unique items, it’s impossible to choose!

 

With all the walking, touring, and shopping it was time for some refreshment! An adorable restaurant resides inside of ABC Carpet and Home – ABC Cocina.  A wonderful menu also offers a variety of margaritas.  The jalepano margarita was delicious. Paired with guacamole and chips, it provided a perfect snack for the afternoon. The picture above is courtesty of the restaurant.  The place was packed when we dined there, and we shared a community table with some other lovely people.

Our day could not be complete without a visit to the The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I would love to spend days here! Every gallery we visited captured our attention and captivated our hearts with its beauty.

With darkness approaching, it was time to return to the hotel and prepare for our evening out.

This tiny Italian restaurant in the West Village, Via Carota, does not take reservations. It comes highly recommended for good reason – the food is outstanding. Just beware, we waited two hours for a table! Bill and I had the good fortune to be waiting next to an adorable young couple. We befriended them and they joined us for dinner. What a delightful surprise it was to hear about their fascinating lives in New York.

We enjoyed a nightcap at the hotel bar. I know the pictures are a bit blurry, but it was very late!

Rise and shine! Another day in NYC awaits!

No words! See it because “We will never forget.”

The haunting images, spoken words, and visual reminders define the 9/11 Memorial Museum. This is a must for all Americans! Bill and I spent close to 2 1/2  hours here and it wasn’t long enough. I applaud those who put together this tribute to everyone who lost their lives and all those who came to the rescue of others during this horrific event in our country’s history. It also celebrates the rebuilding and strength of our magnificent nation.

 Emotionally drained we returned to our hotel. Hungry, we decided to try Burger Joint. What a discovery!  Shrouded behind velvet curtains tucked in an obscure corner inside The Parker Hotel, this dive burger spot is all the rave. We were fortunate and snagged a table.  The line built as we were eating. We both devoured a perfect burger with the works and fries. NYC is home to the original restaurant with another in Brooklyn, 6 in Brazil, 1 in the United Arab Emerates and 1 in Singapore.

I needed to walk off all that delicious burger and fries. (yeah right – more like a week in the gym for those calories)  Walking and the fresh air felt good, so we ventured farther to take in Times Square.  I must admit, this is not my favorite part of New York at all, but it is always cool to see!

With time running out, we headed back to the hotel to prepare for our flight back to Chicago.

Goodnight and goodbye New York….until next time!

XO,

Linda

 Thousands of facial products promise amazing results! It is all rather overwhelming.  I vary my products when I read or hear about something I believe will be beneficial to my skin type. My skin type is mature and dry! I don’t believe in miracle skin products, but I do believe the right products can allow our skin to feel and look its best.  I use a mixture of drug store brands as well as high end brands.

Today, I am sharing my current favorite facial products. As you see in the picture above, they are quite varied.

CLEANSE

The clairsonic cleansing system is not new on the market, but I love it! My skin feels so fresh and soft after using this device.  It does an excellent job of removing dirt, oil and makeup from my face.  Several different heads offer a variety of cleansing options. Use the available app for this model to sync with your phone.

I use the Radiance Foaming Milk Cleanser paired with my Clairsonic. This gentle cleanser provides my skin with a healthy glow! Ingredients that include licorice root extract, peppermint leaf extract and gingko balbao leaf provide a light, lovely scent. A little bit of this goes a long way with lots of soap and bubbles.  I love how clean my face feels without being dry!

MOISTURIZE

L’Oreal Revitalift is my go to moiturizer! I have tried much pricier ones, and I always return to this one. It is Pro Retinol, but doesn’t dry my sensitive skin. They also offer a companion day cream with sunscreen. I use that in the warmer months. However, Chicago winters are cold and dry.  My skin needs all the moisture it can get. Therefore, I use the night cream for both day (a little more sparingly) and night.

 

 

As with the facial cream, another great product L’Oreal offers is a Pro Retinol eye cream. This cream does an excellent job of moisturizing my delicate eye area.  I mix a little bit of it with my under eye concealer to achieve a smooth finish.

 

RESTORE

 About once per week I enjoy a facial mask.  My favorite is the Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Mask! I apply it on a lazy afternoon or evening and relax for about 20 minutes before rinsing it off. It hardens nicely and feels a bit like a scrub when removing it. I can just feel my pores cleansing with its use. It leaves my skin fresh and toned!

 

 These Hyaluronic Cloud Hydra-Gel Eye Patches feel SO good! I especially love them in the morning after a late or sleepless night. Apply one under each eye and relax with a cup of coffee. They hydrate and depuff! What’s not to love.

With so many facial products to choose from, I’m sure my choices will change over time.  But for now, these are the standouts I currently love. Share if you have some fabulous products you love as well!

 

XO,

Linda

 

Happy New Year!! We are now a few days into 2019. How are those New Year’s resolutions coming along? What’s that you say? Your motivation is already wearing thin. Eating nothing but lettuce and going to the gym every day is not working out for you? I, for one, believe New Year’s resolutions usually don’t work because they are not well defined or are unrealistic.

Instead of resolutions, set concrete goals. So often resolutions are obscure with no way to measure their success. For instance, a common resolution is to lose weight or eat more healthy.  While these are both admirable choices, they need a more concrete goal and action plan attached to them to be successful.  I know from experience that unless I am specific about my goals, I often fail.  What works best for me is to quantify my goal, so I can measure my progress and celebrate a success.  I also try to be honest with myself about what is reasonable.  Yes, goals should stretch us, but I am too old to be tortured by unrealistic expectations. Would I be happy if I lost 8 pounds? (what the 25 year old fitness trainer told me I should do) Of course, but it isn’t going to happen unless I lop off a leg!

As women, I believe our goals should also include pleasurable things as well as longtime dreams. If you have always wanted to paint, make it a goal to get started. Also, don’t let your dreams be just dreams, develop goals to support your dreams. The best way to make dreams a reality is by setting a goal and developing an action plan to achieve that goal.

I find a New Year exciting.  We can’t redo the past, but we can always make a new beginning.  I thought about my goals for 2019 and broke them down into four categories.  I have done my best to make them quantifiable. A number or a date is associated with each goal.  I also used action verbs to define each one.  Fitness Goals, Financial Goals, Fun Goals, and Future Goals and Dreams are the categories I chose.

I hope by sharing my thoughts on my goals and aspirations for 2019, you find inspiration.

 

FITNESS GOALS

1. Lift weights/cardio twice weekly.
2. Practice Yoga two times per week.
3. Walk 30 minutes outside when weather permits.
4. Eat 4 fruits/vegetables per day.
5. Limit dessert to one day per week.

FINANCIAL GOALS

1. Save $500 per month. (see number 2)
2. Reduce spending by $500 per month. (This is a companion to the first one and tough for me. I love to shop!)
3. Expand blog exposure to include Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest by April 1.
4. Establish affiliate marketing plan by March 1.

 

FUN GOALS

1. Schedule plans with my daughter once per month.
2. Schedule and plan dinner date with my husband once per week.
3. Schedule lunch with girlfriends once per month.
4. Attend one theatrical, musical, or fun event per month.
5. Make one call per week to family and friends I don’t see often.

 

FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS

1. Plan European vacation for 2020.
2. Plan for a future lake house (financial analysis and areas to consider).

I am excited to begin developing an action plan to achieve my goals this year. I hope you find what I have shared inspiring!

I wish you all a happy and successful New Year!

XO,

Linda

 Christmas is bittersweet for me this year. It will be the first one without my Mom, but I am blessed to be sharing it with other beloved family members.  The Spode dinnerware shown above was a gift from my Mom and Dad 30 years ago when I was newly married.  I treasure it even more this year! Throughout the years, I have added linens, glassware and serving pieces to the collection.  Gold chargers enhance the plates. I’ve chosen a plaid tablecloth  and navy velvet runner to compliment the beautiful Spode Christmas tree pattern.  Crystal and brass candlesticks with white tapers complete the look. I decided to keep the floral arrangement simple and elegant.  Fresh evergreens and white roses provide just the right compliment for the table setting. I can’t wait to celebrate the joy of food and family together at our table!

I extend my sincere hope that you experience all the joys of Christmas with family and friends.  I am thinking of you, Mom (Miss you!), and also looking forward to a Christmas spent with loved ones!

XO,

Linda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May you and your families experience the many blessings of Christmas with those you love. I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year!

XO,

Linda

 

 

 The holiday season in Chicago boasts an array of activities and plenty of festive cheer for everybody! Over the years, I have experienced everything from performances of “The Nutcracker”, “Zoo Lights” and even a “Santa Run”! The activities are way too numerous to mention.  Our family never misses an opportunity to soak up the beauty of Chicago at Christmastime. Something about the hustle and bustle adds an air of excitement to the season. Magnificent decorations abound everywhere. Second City? I think not!

This past Saturday, my daughter and I enjoyed a delightful Saturday together taking in the sights and sounds of Chicago at Christmas. Today, I am sharing some of my favorite things to do to celebrate the season. None are specific to a certain day or week during the season, just all super fun!

 TAKE IN A MUSEUM

So many word class museums exist in Chicago that it is difficult to select favorites. Pictured above are the wreathed lions that flank the entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago. Enjoy thousands of pieces of art from all reaches of the globe.  I never tire of a visit here.

 

The Driehaus Museum is housed in a magnificent mansion in the gold coast area that showcases the art, architecture and design of the gilded age. During the holiday season they offer high tea and also a Santa program for the little ones.

ENJOY A SPECIAL LUNCH

 

The RL Restaurant is one of my all time favorites.  My daughter and I savored a delicious lunch there on Saturday. Located steps off of the Magnificant Mile and attached to its namesake store, Ralph Lauren, it provides a perfect respite from holiday shopping. Make reservations as it fills up weeks in advance!

SAUNTER DOWN OAK STREET

 Yes, the prices are sky high, but the stores and their window displays are oh so beautiful!

SHOP THE MAGNIFICENT MILE

Crowds? Of course! My daughter and I still enjoy this holiday right of passage, shopping the vast array of stores on Michigan Avenue while enjoying its sights and sounds.

MAKE TIME FOR SOME HOLIDAY CHEER ( THE ALCOHOL KIND)

Tavern on Rush is one of my favorite spots year round. We popped in here for some refreshments after mastering the crowds of the day. The festive decor and lively ambiance make it especially fun during the holidays.

 Butch McGuire’s offers a feast for the eyes this time of year. Words defy the number of Christmas decorations here.  From zillions of lights to running trains, Butch’s has it all. But….be prepared to stand shoulder to shoulder here for a cocktail!

DINNER AT A STEAKHOUSE

As most people know, Chicago is known for its incredible steakhouses.  My new favorite is Gibson’s Italia.  Situated where the river branches with theater style seating, no restaurant in the city has a view like this! And the food…spectacular!

SEE A SHOW

Hamilton! Need I say more?

Performed with the Chicago 1893 World’s Fair as its backdrop, this show is outstanding.

Obviously, these are only two of the hundreds of shows now playing in Chicago. Finish your fabulous day by taking one in.

So, I have offered a small sampling of holiday activities in the magnificent city of Chicago. More favorites include Macy’s animated Christmas windows, Tea at the Drake Hotel, Lincoln Park’s Zoo Lights, Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest, Museum of Science and Industry’s  Christmas around the World Festival, Ice skating at Millennium Park, Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas program, and on and on and on! I hope you are able to enjoy a  bit of what Chicago has to offer this holiday season! And oh yeah, maybe take in a Chicago Bears game….NFC champs!

XO,

Linda

Monograms and personalized gifts aren’t just for women! Please don’t forget about the special men in your life when it comes to personalizing a gift! Add a monogram to elevate the look of a shirt, decanter, or briefcase. Let your imagination run wild! Not a monogram kind of guy? ….Consider a personal phrase for a fun twist.

Today I am sharing some of my favorite personalized gift ideas for your husband, significant other, father, brother or friend. (Anyone you can think of!)

 

FOR WHEN HE WANTS THE PERFECT FIT:

 

The ultimate in personalization, customize a shirt for the special man in your life. Brooks Brothers allows a choice of fit type, color, collar, back, sleeve length, neck size and monogram placement. This shirt is only one of a multitude of options.

Not interested in monogramming the cuffs themselves? Try a stunning pair of classic silver cufflinks from Tiffany’s with custom engraving. Pair the cufflinks with a french cuff shirt of your choosing for an elegant gift.

 

FOR WHEN HE WANTS TO CHILL:

 Robes provide a perfect canvas for personalization. Add a handsome monogram to this sophisticated plaid robe.

 

FOR WHEN HE WANTS TO SHOW OFF HIS STYLE APTITUDE:

Let him flaunt his style! A perfectly paired set includes a monogrammed handkerchief, tie and socks. Select from a variety of colorful options.

 

FOR HIS WATCH COLLECTION:

 Watches deserve their own special showcase.  Allow him to safely store his collection in this monogrammed watch box.

FOR WHEN HE TRAVELS:

 Organize your techie guy when he’s on the road or in the air.  A luxurious leather case holds all his charger necessities.

 An overnight duffel bag with his initials offers both handsome form and function. The waxed canvas of this bag adds updated appeal.

 

FOR HIS ____ (FILL IN THE BLANK) YEAR OLD SCOTCH:

A drink just tastes better when poured from an elegant decanter. With an etched windowpane pattern and a classic monogram, who could question the quality of the scotch.

 

FOR HIS MARTINI:

Is he a martini drinker? Bring back memories of a bygone era with a set of monogrammed martini glasses.

 

I have way too many ideas to share in one post, but I hope you find inspiration in everything I have shared today! Contemplate his lifestyle and match a special, personalized gift with that image.  Happy shopping!

XO,

Linda

 Heat up your wardrobe with a faux fur coat or jacket! Faux Fur is so hot right now, that it is the must have piece of outwear for this winter! Every style, shape and color appears on both runways and streets. Since trends come and go quickly, I do not like to overspend on a trendy item.

Recently, while shopping at Target, I saw the leopard coat I am wearing in the photo above. As you know from my previous posts, I love all things animal print! With a price tag of $49.99, how could I resist? Needless to say, the coat went in my basket. Inspired by my recent faux fur purchase, I thought, why not share some fabulous faux fur choices that are also inexpensive? Add a bit of whimsy to your winter wardrobe with these additional five faux furs all under $50!

Who can deny the appeal of this darling, burgundy short jacket? How perfect would this be for upcoming holiday parties? And a price tag of $39.99 makes it irresistible.

A black, fuzzy jacket offers a versatile option.  It’s pictured casually here, but added to your little black dress it’s perfect for any soiree!

 

A beautiful neutral colored fur says “wear me with anything”! With winter upon us, this coat provides cozy warmth.

 A faux fur and an on trend green color make this bomber jacket a stand out.  Also available in ivory, throw this jacket on over your activewear to meet friends for coffee.

 

Wear this black faux fur dressed down with jeans or out for an evening this holiday season.  I love the slightly vintage feel of this coat!

Why not heat up your wardrobe with a bit of fabulous, faux fur? The hard part becomes selecting only one!

XO,

Linda

Nothing personalizes a gift more than adding a monogram!  I must admit, I am a monogram addict. I know a little goes a long way, but I can’t resist a good monogrammed scarf, bag, towel, or anything. My sorority days included the requisite monogrammed sweater. Nowadays though, monograms can be traditional or modern.

Today, I am sharing some of my favorite personalized gifts for that certain someone on your list.  Add a monogram to individualize a special gift.

 A stunning cashmere robe provides the perfect canvas for a monogram. Restoration Hardware offers this robe in 9 colors. Select from a variety of monogram styles.

 A classic set of quality cotton pjs should be on everyone’s list. Monogram the sleeve for a different twist. Imagine how chic she will look when she appears before her guests in the morning.

Monogrammed slippers add an air of sophistication to any sleeping ensemble.  These slippers are also offered in English Tan and Classic Navy.

A simple initial or monogram ups the style quotient of a black coat with these sumptuous colored leather gloves. An added bonus is the cashmere lining.

A well priced, cable knit scarf takes it up a notch with a simple initial.

 

 An acrylic block necklace lends a modern flair to the monogram.  This necklace has oodles of customization options. Choose the chain metal, chain length, acrylic color (12 available), monogram size, monogram letters. Talk about personalizing!

 A classic block letter adorns this gold necklace. I love how the initial falls in an unexpected way when worn.

 

 For the love of tortoise, I am sharing this elegant bracelet.  Dress it up with black or down with raw hem jeans.

 

Be still my heart! A Jo Malone fragrance and monogramming? Jo Malone of London offers engraving on either the bottle or lid of its fragrances. I have been wearing Jo Malone perfume for several years now. Their scents are so lovely, unique and never cloying.  I take advantage of the option of wearing two scents at once for my own personal blend.

Who doesn’t love a great Brahmin bag? Add a classic monogram to a luxurious leather handbag or zip wristlet.

 

 

Don’t forget about the traveler! Gift a monogrammed passport case in a fun color. Add one of the other travel accessories for a matched set.

 A lidded jewelry box to store her precious gems will be a hit with the darling print and initial monogram.

 How about a floral teacup for the tea drinker? The monogram is personal, and the teacup acknowledges you know she prefers tea to coffee.

 I usually love everything the Rifle Paper Company makes.  These adorable monogrammed note cards are no exception.

So many choices are available to make your holiday gift to her a special one.  I hope my selections have inspired you to personalize your gift with a monogram.

Get shopping!

XO,

Linda