I don’t know about you, but in the past, at this time of year, I've been guilty of buying things for loved ones simply because I had to buy a gift. We all have people in our lives who just don’t need another cashmere sweater.  You buy your wife jewelry because it’s nice to give something sparkly but you know she’ll return it and get something she actually likes. Or you buy your husband the latest gadget even though it’s the last thing he needs. Well, in an effort to stop that kind of mindless buying, I’m sharing a few of my favorite things (and experiences) that I’m kind of obsessed with right now…..

If your favorite person has a tendency to live in her yoga pants at least help her do it stylishly. NYC based ath-leisure brand Nesh opened a pop-up store in the Meat Packing District this November, which is worth a visit to see samples being sewn right there in the store, but the collection is also available online. A few favs – the mesh-back cardigan which can be worn over workout clothes to the gym or over a tank with jeans and heels to dinner, “torn” leggings, and the parallel pullover – with a mesh V-neck that easily transforms a look from day to play.

www.neshnyc.com

If you likey the wine, Vinfluence is an awesome company that seeks out and delivers hard-to-find artisanal wine to your doorstep monthly and donates $1 for every bottle of wine shipped to worthy causes such as City Harvest, Sustainable Harvest International and Fiver. Gifts all around! You can gift just one month or set up monthly or quarterly shipments. Yes please!

https://www.vinfluencewine.com

My friend Jen first introduced me to her super soft Cuyana leather tote bag this summer. When I read up on the brand and realized the company's tag line was “Fewer, Better Things” I was hooked. I’m all about quality over quantity in your closet, and lasting style over trends. When you shop their site and select “lean shipping” at checkout they will send a reusable bag to fill up with items you no longer need. You then mail the bag back with the included shipping label and your items are donated directly to women in need via their non-profit partner H.E.A.R.T. Yey – look good, feel good! The totes come in several colors and the NYC pop-up shop on Elizabeth Street will monogram three initials on the bags - gratis.

www.cuyana.com

I’ve already written about the importance of a good quality, heavy-duty winter coat for men in my  blog - Winter Coat Survival Guide, but it’s something I feel strongly about. If your hubby busts out a decades-old Gor-tech monstrosity that’s about three sizes too big when the storms hit, then consider getting him an updated style by Canada Goose, GLab or Woolrich. This isn’t supposed to replace his dressier topcoat but it will ensure he’s well equipped for when true winter hits. Check out my favorites HERE.

I’m all about the experience gift – especially for peeps who seriously have everything. I love the idea of gifting a photoshoot. In addition to being fun, it can also serve a more practical purpose – leaving you with great pictures for your digital footprint. It’s always good to have a consistent image across all social media and networking platforms – and no, that picture taken in a bar with the person obviously cropped out won’t cut it. I’ve worked with Claudine Williams on several occasions and she has a unique ability to put you at ease and smile for an authentic and flattering shot.

www.claudinewilliamsphotography.com

And finally, you can never go wrong when you give the gift of style. Wrap up a Harrison Style gift card and surprise your loved one with a personal styling package. A Sort, Shop & Style is a luxurious three-part experience that includes a thorough wardrobe edit, a strategic shopping trip and a style session - complete with a look book of their new outfits. It won’t cram their closet and life with things they don’t need. I work with my clients to figure out exactly what they need to complete their wardrobe for work and/or play, then we shop strategically and sensibly to eliminate that “I have nothing to wear” feeling. You can book right HERE for the men in your life or HERE for women, or you can email for more info at [email protected]