BEDKNOBS & BAUBLES

Through the Fog

December 14, 2015 by jessica 11 Comments

To say it’s been unseasonably warm in southern Wisconsin would be a bit of an understatement. It feels like spring with 60-degree temperatures, almost-constant rain, and foggy evenings. I know I’ll regret wishing for snow the moment flakes start to fall, but I really want a white Christmas this year … just a half inch that melts on Dec. 26. On the bright side, it has given me the chance to bring lightweight jackets out for another spin and wear shoes without worrying about snow and salt damage!

This grey wool shift has been a perennial favorite ever since I purchased it back in 2009 or 2010. I can’t think of another piece in my closet that has had such longevity. It’s a classic shape, has pretty brass buttons on the back, a flirty little ruffled hem, and makes for the perfect backdrop to new jewelry, like these gorgeous pieces from Ben-Amun. They’re from designer Isaac Manevitz’s “Roman Coin” collection. The collection is marked by pewter coins set in brass, reminiscent of treasured archaeological finds. You’ll learn more about the designer in this week’s “Behind the Baubles.”

Perfect Present: Onecklace Jewelry

December 11, 2015 by jessica 5 Comments

If you’re in need of a last-minute present that doesn’t appear to be an afterthought, look no further than Onecklace, an online retailer offering personalized jewelry with free guaranteed Christmas delivery right now. I’ve actually collaborated with Onecklace in the past and I was thrilled when they reached out again this year. I still wear my “Bonjour” necklace every so often. It has held up beautifully over the last two years and the gold plating hasn’t faded. This time around, I still stayed away from having my named engraved on the necklace and opted for a holiday-appropriate “falala” with the same “Alegro” script. Not only can you personalize the word, you can select the chain style and length, and specify any special instructions. (For my necklace, I wanted all of the letters to be lowercase.) I also selected a monogram ring. A signet ring has been on my wishlist for awhile, but I haven’t convinced myself to splurge on the real deal just yet. This modern monogram feels fresh and the understated profile doesn’t compete with my other daily rings. Both items come in at under $70, making them affordable keepsakes to give this holiday season.

Thanks to Onecklace for sponsoring this post!

The Weekend Guide

December 11, 2015 by jessica Leave a Comment

First off, I want to apologize for being a shoddy blog friend over the last few weeks. I’ve been so busy with work and holiday hoopla that I haven’t made time to catch up on your blog posts and Instagram feeds. I’ll make amends soon! In the meantime, leave comments to share what you’ve been up to, the most amazing holiday gifts you’ve procured, or the booziest cocktails that are getting you through the season!

LEARN
Every Christmas season, I realize how out of practice I am with handwriting the moment I start signing cards and addressing envelopes. I have no idea how I ever managed to fill an entire Blue Book during college exams without such extreme cramping! Who’s the culprit behind this holiday tradition? Find out here.

SIP
We picked out our Christmas tree on Wednesday and plan to decorate it tonight with cocktails in hand. I’m thinking this s’more-inspired drink is in order.

APPRECIATE
If you haven’t watched the “Instagram Husband” video by now, you’re missing out. It’s a shamefully accurate representation of what we put our non-professional blog photographers through! There’s also a hilarious Tumblr to follow.

MAKE
This pom pom garland is an easy DIY project. Make one for the holidays if you’re feeling ambitious or save the idea for a festive New Year’s banner. It’s also an adorable project for a baby shower.

LISTEN
Serial. Season. Two.

LAUGH
While I’d love to own everything in the Williams-Sonoma catalog, many of the items are ridiculous. #BarkYeah

EARLIER THIS WEEK
A selection of gift ideas for teachers and coworkers (basically, thoughtful without being personal).
25 of the best barware this holiday season.
Style steals under $50 and $100.
Broke out my favorite party shoes for the holidays. (They’re on sale here.)

FIVE UNDER $55

Holiday Gift Guide: Coworkers and Teachers

December 9, 2015 by jessica 4 Comments

*I’d be delighted if my work bestie surprised me with these. There’s another set here.
**Don’t be a Grinch. Be sure to add tea inside the canister.

25 Cocktail Essentials

December 8, 2015 by jessica 3 Comments

A bar cart has been at the top of my must-have list for a couple of years now, but I can’t bring myself to actually ask Santa for one — they’re so expensive! However, that hasn’t stopped me from adding plenty of mixology accessories to my wish list this year. I’m all about this pineapple ice bucket, a decanter that looks more expensive than it is, and these quirky cocktail napkins. I’d also love to add this koi vase to display cocktail stirrers.

Whether you’re buying gifts for a cocktail connoisseur or outfitting your own bar cart for the holidays, scroll through the slideshow to discover 25 of the chicest cocktail essentials this season.

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