A guide after my own heart – no wonder it’s the longest one. This is for the girl who waits by the mailbox when it’s time for Vogue to arrive, is a walking encyclopedia of what’s “in” this season, and is always on hand to lend style advice for your latest sartorial dilemma. No wonder you two have so much in common.

1. Infinitely more chic than the slippers she’s wearing now, but every bit as toasty warm. Bel Esprit velvet slippers, $98
2. From the bright red hue to that distinctive basketweave detail, this luxe wallet will make her heart sing (and never get lost in the bottom of her bag). Leela continental wallet, Botkier, $195
3. A practical coat that’s this chic? Impossible. Bonnie jacket, LK Bennett, approx. $245 (order online or call their Chicago store).
4. One of those things we never splurge on for ourselves: truly luxurious socks. These are thin but warm, silky soft, and actually stay up all day. Bouton mi-bas socks, Phillipe Matignon, $23
5. A cozy cardigan is a no-brainer, especially a bargain like this. I love the nod to tribal style, and the colors are so neutral, she’ll wear it nonstop. Wrap cardigan, Quiksilver, $108
6. Carine Roitfeld is a serious player in the world of style icons. This gorgeous tome will get her one step closer to the sartorial perfection she craves. Irreverent, by Carine Roitfeld, $62
7. Lingerie can be a tricky holiday gift, but this lighthearted polka-dot chemise strikes the perfect balance between sexy and sweet. Muse chemise, Blush Lingerie, $68
8. If you know a girl that would love this awesome tote, you’ll know it instantly. I can think of at least three (not including myself). “I Am The Shit” Tote, Maude & Tilda, $45
9. Call it a British invasion, but these mod green tweed driving gloves are my latest obsession. Tweed driving gloves, Shepherd England, approx. $118 (20% off sitewide through 12/14)
10. There is positively nothing better than a classic striped sweater, and there is positively no one who does them better than CARDIGAN. Marielle striped sweater, Cardigan by Lynne Hiriak, $80 (on sale!)
    
11. A gorgeous rendition of a classic Angela Adams print, this scarf will brighten the greyest days. Haven lambswool scarf, Angela Adams, $75
12. More gloves, I know. What can I say…I’m freezing! These fingerless gloves are so soft and light (not to mention iPhone-friendly), I almost never take them off. Cashmere fingerless gloves, vkoo by INHABIT, $168
13. I’ve wanted a minaudiere all season, and this one is my absolute favorite. Pop a pair of tickets to The Nutcracker inside, and your holiday work is done. Kingston minaudiere, J.McLaughlin, $175

If she’s guaranteed an upgrade every time she sets foot on a plane, knows the best hotels in every major city, and racks up more frequent flyer miles than most pilots, here are a few treats she’s sure to stash in her carry-on.

1. One thing every traveler has in common is dry skin and hair. Fix it in one fell swoop with this genius travel set packed with argan oil-infused essentials. Moroccan Getaway travel set, Josie Maran, $39
2. This trim tote packs flat, holds a ton, and the baby soft leather is stylish enough for any adventure. Baggu leather tote, $150
3. Every good traveler needs a page-turner novel to get them through those Atlanta layovers. Sarah’s Key, by Tatiana de Rosnay, $15
4. This clever gadget is a surge protector, USB charger port and phone cradle all in one – pretty impressive for under $20. Portable charging station, RCA, $19
5. Heats up in an instant, seriously delivers on style, and comes with a trim, ultra-glam case to keep your clothes safe when you have to throw this in your bag while it’s still warm. GHD Scarlet styler, $225
6. Borrow from the boys and get her a dopp kit that will actually hold all her beauty essentials in one bag. Hammocks & High Tea dopp kit, $50
7. So big you could stow a greyhound inside (I’ll never admit to how I know this), but so light, it makes carry-on a breeze. And I love the mod plaid print. LeSportSac large weekender, $108
8. The stuff deskside daydreams are made of. 2012 Paris calendar, Little Brown Pen, $22
9. Oh, the places you’ll go – these are tiny enough to stow away in the smallest suitcase, and comfy enough to save your travel-weary feet. Ballasox foldable ballet flats, $60
10. Stylish and feminine, but not girly. Portola Valley passport holder, Kate Spade, $65

Why is it that men are so much trickier to buy for than women? I can’t explain it, but I can try to make the process a bit easier. Whether he’s metro or manly, there’s a gift here he’ll be stoked to see under the tree (or menorah, in  my case).

1. They might not always say it, but guys need a little luxury in their grooming too. Cade shaving cream and travel shaving brush, L’Occitane, $28 & $30
2. Really, aren’t you tired of those threadbare socks he’s wearing? Richer Poorer men’s socks, any 3 styles for $30 with code HOHOHO, including gift box and shipping.
3. A warm, weatherproof boot that looks good enough for going out. Ellesmere weather-resistant boot, Sorel, $160
4. Captain Scott is the male equivalent of Amelia Earhart – his trek through the South Pole is the stuff of legends. This book of photos from the infamous trip are guaranteed to indulge his inner explorer. Lost Photographs of Captain Scott, by David M. Wilson, $21
5. These natural leather belts are hand-crafted, and weather over time to a rugged patina. I’m so in love with them that the hubs and I both have one. Leather “Project Belt”, Wood and Faulk, $55
6. Get him to ditch his drugstore shades – these aviators will give him instant street cred, and the classic shape will work on absolutely anyone. Oliver aviator sunglasses, Guess, $65
7. Getting a tie for Christmas might not top his wishlist…until he sees this hip version from Pendleton. Just don’t mention your plans to borrow it. Grey mix Umatilla tie, Pendleton Portland Collection, $68
8. This is a pick straight from the hubs, who tells me this matte, paper-style dial is “super cool.” Phosphor E-Ink digital watch, $195
9. So, so many iPhone cases out there, but I love that this one’s made of wood and looks like a retro Leica camera. “Made From Raw Wood” iPhone case, $42
10. If there’s a bachelor on your list, I’m pretty confident his house could benefit from a candle that isn’t at all girly, but still masks the smell of whatever’s rotting in his fridge. Silver skull candle, DL & Company, $88

Really, who isn’t a jewelry guide for? Anything sparkly is the perfect gift for moms, sisters, friends – and, of course, feel free to send a link to your significant other, as he’s almost certainly in the market for hints this time of year.

1. These pretty druzy crystals would be the perfect go-to pairing with denim – if I don’t snag them first. Druzy earrings (and similar), Iris Jewelry Designs, $82 (take 10% off sitewide with code HOLIDAY10)
2. If you can’t buy her the Crown Jewels, this might be the next best thing – she can ogle to her heart’s content. Boucheron: The Secret Archives, by Vincent Meylan, $60
3. A locket always feels like a special gift to me. This one packs all the sentimental punch but with a style that’s not so precious. Ball locket necklace, Hayden-Harnett, $55
4. Those pale rectangles of recycled glass give you a hint of bold color that’s still completely wearable. Mountains necklace, Sword+Fern, $72
5. It’s hard to go wrong with anything from Grayling, but I love that these earrings are statement-worthy but still wearable for everyday. Tail Arc earrings, Grayling Jewelry, $88
6. Call me old-school, but there’s nothing I love quite as much as a classic cameo. Cameo necklace, Kessler, $165
7. I am forever setting my rings down in ill-advised locations (above the kitchen sink, for example), but I like to think this little squirrel would save me from yet another near-disastrous misplacing. Squirrel ring box, Jonathan Adler, $125
8. Remember all that arm party fun I’ve been having? This gives you all the style, with absolutely none of the carefully-orchestrated effort. Pearl & disc bracelet, Gerard Yosca, $60
9. Simple and classic, these are the perfect studs, but with a stylish update. Etoile pavé studs, Kira Kira, $250
10. If there’s a mom on your list, look no further. Use this kit to send off a fingerprint from her darling munchkin, and she’ll get a sterling charm as one-of-a-kind as her little one. Custom fingerprint charm, Priceless Prints, $65
11. I’m such a fan of Tiffany & Co.’s new Locks collection, and this bangle is at the top of my list. Besides, what’s a jewelry gift guide without a splurge or two? Vintage lock bangle, Tiffany & Co., $1,850

For the friend who reads cookbooks like they’re novels, thinks Dean & Deluca is the mother ship, and is always dragging you to the new fusion restaurant in town or making you her guinea pig for the secret ingredient du jour (this month, I hear it’s harissa).

1. Foodies rarely need an excuse to party, but a subscription to a champagne club should secure your seat at his next dinner party. Henri’s Reserve champagne club, from $600
2. Who isn’t chasing the next best caffeine fix? For tea drinkers, Harney & Sons makes my favorite holiday blend – warm and cozy, with just a hint of holiday spice. And for coffee lovers, choose a bag or two from Ristretto Roasters (based here in Portland) – it’s simply the best I’ve had. Holiday black tea blend, Harney & Sons, $15; Ristretto Roasters, from $14 for 12 oz
3. Nothing transforms ordinary cooking faster than good salt and great olive oil. Get them one of each, and they’ll eat well all year (or until they run out). Olive Oil – 2011 Blend, McEvoy Ranch, from $22; Finishing salt starter set, The Meadow, $38
4. I’m always looking for rectangular bakers in just the right size – this set gives you all the options you’ll need. 3-piece potluck baker set, Crate & Barrel, $30
5. Maybe more of a stocking stuffer than a full-fledged gift, but I’m on a perpetual quest to find the perfect spoon. These two are high on my wish list this year. Silicone batter whisk, Tovolo, $12; Acacia wood paddle, Michael Ruhlman, $25
6. Vosges Haut Chocolat is the gold standard for foodie treats. Their exotic truffles are perfect for a gourmet, but my heart belongs to the Toffee Trifecta hat box, packed with 3 varieties (including bacon caramel!). Vosges Toffee Trifecta, $58 and Exotic Truffles, from $26
7. A cookbook is a no-brainer gift for a foodie, but you need one that suits their style to a T. For casual home cooks, I love me some Paula Deen, but hardcore food lovers will be more enamored of Michael Ruhlman’s latest. Paula Deen’s Southern Cooking Bible, $17; Ruhlman’s Twenty, by Michael Ruhlman, $22
8. Hands down, the most stylish way I’ve ever seen to BYOB. Felt wine tote, Graf+Lantz, $79
9. Adapted from an illustration in a 1927 Parisian book on wine appreciation, this apron is the perfect addition to any foodie’s kitchen. L’Art du Vin apron, The Met Store, $30
10. Foodies are forever chasing the “next big thing” in culinary creativity. A set of exotic spices will get their creative juices flowing, and keep them ahead of the pack. Spice kits, Williams-Sonoma, from $40

Good morning, friends! And welcome to our annual Holiday Gift Guide Spectacular! This year, I have a whopping nine guides for you, and they’re absolutely gorgeous (thanks entirely to my genius hubs, who made all of these pretty graphics for us!). I think they’re our best yet! When it’s all said and done, I think I’ll have covered absolutely, positively everyone on your list. I truly hope this will make each and every one of your holiday shopping lists a breeze, and your season a bit brighter.

Let’s kick things off with a few of my favorite gifts for the beauty addict. If she can’t hit a mall without beelining for Sephora, changes her nail polish color as often as she changes her clothes, and always has the inside scoop on the best new spa in town, look no further.

1. The beauty gift that keeps on giving – Birch Box will deliver a box of product samples to her door every month, so she can test out the latest and greatest from her favorite brands. Birch Box beauty gift box subscription, from $30
2. Bobbi Brown nails the holidays every year, but this petite little palette is one of my favorites. Eyes, cheeks and lips covered in a kit barely bigger than a box of matches. To Go palette, Bobbi Brown, $25
3. I’ll admit, I’m mostly after this for the Peter Som-designed makeup bag. But it’s also packed with goodies from Clark’s Botanicals, which is a great bonus. Peter Som for Clark’s Botanicals travel kit, $59
4. I’m officially obsessed with NUDE’s Replenishing Night Oil, which moisturizes beautifully without clogging pores. Her skin will thank you for months to come. Radiance Collection, NUDE Skincare, $78
5. Tarte has a cult following, and any beauty addict will know their cheek stain is legendary. This kit gets you the classic shade, plus a few fab extras, all at a very gift-friendly price. Shining Stars gift set, Tarte, $25
6. I love REN for holiday sets – they’re always so beautifully designed, and the products are every bit as good as the packaging. I’m a sucker for a great citrus scent, and their Neroli Grapefruit is one of the best. Neroli Grapefruit body duo, REN, $45
7. This gorgeous gold compact is as luxe a gift as I’ve ever seen, and the subtly shimmery powder inside will have her glowing all season. Passion face palette, Clarins, $55
8. This time of year, everyone’s skin is a scaly mess, but this Borghese scrub will make her limbs silky smooth, with a delicious citrus scent I can’t resist. Vitamin C body scrub, Borghese, $49
9. Creme de Corps is a cult classic, with good reason. This limited edition package by Jeff Koons is pretty enough for her nightstand, and proceeds go to help rescue missing and exploited children. Limited Edition Koons Creme de Corps, Kiehl’s, from $29
10. elizabethW has recently redesigned their entire line, and the new packaging is unbelievably pretty. This Cranberry Ginger scent is perfect for the holidays, but totally appropriate for year-round use. Cranberry Ginger perfume diffuser, elizabethW, $65

{CONTEST CLOSED…Sorry you missed it! But check back next month for more giveaway fun!}

Welcome back, friends! I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful – and now, of course, it’s time to really get into the holiday swing. (Have you taken advantage of our amazing Black Friday deal from Kara Ackerman yet? Last day…!)

We’re starting our annual Holiday Gift Guide Spectacular Spectacular tomorrow – I know how you all love a good gift guide! – and I’ll have zillions of great gifting ideas for you. But to officially kick off the season of giving, I teamed up with some dear friends, the lovely ladies at hi friend, to come up with a pitch-perfect present just for you. That’s right, it’s giveaway time!

I can’t think of a better, more stylish way to get started on the holidays, can you? As always, I love each and every one of hi friend’s holiday offerings – I have no idea how you’ll choose a favorite. Fortunately, you don’t have to! You’ll win a set of holiday cards PLUS a set of custom stationery PLUS one of those beautiful candles (to hold onto or save as an emergency hostess gift). Best of all, they’ll all get to you in plenty of time to send out those holiday cards on time for a change!

To win all three goodies, just comment below and let us know what you’d pick if you win! You have until Thursday night to enter, and we’ll pick a winner at random on Friday, 12/2!

As always, you get a bonus entry for following both of us on Twitter (@shoppingscardio and @hifrienddesign) and mentioning the contest, or for being our friends on Facebook here and here (you know you want to), and sharing with your friends. Just be sure you come back and leave a second (or third) comment telling me you shared elsewhere.

Good luck!

Today’s tip? Well, Black Friday/Cyber Monday fun, of course! I was actually planning to skip this little tidbit this year, but there are some goodies – many of which are starting today! And you know I can’t resist sharing a good bargain. Here’s what I know so far, and I’ll update periodically through the next day or two – we’ll put the newest deals at the top:

• Kara Ackerman: come back HERE to find out which gorgeous piece you’ll get 50% off on, beginning at 12:01 am on Friday, 11/25!
• Grayling Jewelry: 40% off sitewide on Cyber Monday, 11/28 + free shipping & gift wrap! Use code MONDAYMONDAY.
• Madewell: 20% off $150+ purchases, 25% off $250+ and 30% off $350+ (and free shipping) now through 11/27.
• Anthropologie: 25% off all sale items now through Sunday; goes up to 50% off all sale on Friday only.
• J.Crew: 25% off + free shipping on orders of $150+ now through 11/27 with code YOURGIFT.
• Botkier: special Black Friday sample sale starts now, take an additional 10% off for “liking” them on Facebook.
• Shopbop: Spend Some, Get Some with code BIGEVENT ($50 off $250, $100 off $500, etc.)
• Elie Tahari: 20% off $400+ with code GIVETHANKS, beginning 12:01 am on Thursday.

Happy hunting!

Welcome back, iVillage peeps! I hope you have your holiday gifting list all set now, and are ready to move on to the fun part – shopping! Today’s challenge tips are my secret formula for surviving Black Friday, but my best advice is to avoid it altogether.

BONUS TIP #2: Think Outside the (Big) Box

Black Friday has a siren song not many of us can resist. But there are better ways to spend your holiday weekend than duking it out over the last Tickle Me Elmo at your local Target. Instead of heading straight for the big box retailers on the day after Thanksgiving, head to your favorite local, independent stores and see what’s on offer. Often, they’ll have deals to rival the big chains, and you’ll have warm fuzzies from supporting local business (not to mention avoiding those mall parking lots!). Here in Portland, local shops have teamed up to create their own event for Black Friday – shoppers will get prizes, discounts, and all sorts of goodies. I’m guessing we’re not alone – check around for similar events in your area.

Need an extra incentive? American Express is sponsoring its second annual Small Business Saturday event this year. Pre-register your AmEx card, and get a $25 statement credit if you shop at a small business on Saturday, 11/26.

Also, don’t forget to check your favorite blogs for deals from brands and shops way outside the box. Here at SMC, we’ll be offering an exclusive Black Friday deal from one of our favorite designers – you won’t want to miss it!

First of all, I want to give a big, warm welcome to all of the iVillage Holiday Challenge visitors today! That’s right, my week of coaching started today, and I’m sharing all of my best tips for making the holiday shopping season virtually painless (I swear, it’s possible!).

We’ll be kicking off holiday shopping here at SMC next week (I like to give Turkey Day its due), with a truly fantastic giveaway and a bevy of holiday gift guides sure to make your shopping even easier. And I also have an amazing deal coming up on Black Friday, exclusively for you lovely SMC readers! It’s from one of my very favorite designers, and guaranteed to be a perfect fit for every girl on your list.

If you aren’t getting my daily tips this week, I’d love to have you on board – just head on over to iVillage and sign up! (No spam, I promise.) And for those of you already on the list, I thought I’d pass along a few bonus tips throughout the week – just my way of thanking you for stopping by.

BONUS TIP #1: Give Santa a hand.

The other day, I walked into a store with the hubs, and pointed out a sweater I liked. “This would make an excellent holiday gift, sweetie!” I said, batting my eyelashes. For once, instead of nodding mindlessly and walking away, my husband let me in on a little tidbit that explained a lot about the gifts that end up under my Christmas tree. “I want to get you things like that,” he said, “but I have no idea what size to buy you.”

I tell you, friends, it had never even crossed my mind that he didn’t have my sizes down pat (as I do his). But it explained a lot. So, right now, do it with me – send your spouse, boyfriend, partner, or otherwise-involved-person a list of all of your sizes. And be thorough – I’m talking denim size, shoe size, pant size, sweater size, coat size, ring size…even hat and glove sizes. Anything he might need to get you the holiday gift of your dreams. Trust me, your significant other has no interest in rummaging through your closet to figure out your sizes. So, help him out!