holiday gift guide 2

When shopping for my mom and sisters, I search for practical luxuries—useful things that make every day feel a little more special, but aren't so basic that they buy them on weekly Walgreens runs. After a long day of work, most of us don't bust out fancy glassware, but for those nights she's hosting friends, it's nice to pour Pinot from an elegant carafe (or serve snacks from fun appetizer plates). And last year, jumbo bottles of shampoo and conditioner were two favorites I found under the tree—I was stocked up for months, and it was a better brand than I might have bought for myself, making every shower more enjoyable. Great gifts don't have to be unusually unique; some of the best simply elevate her regular routine.

SHOP THE BOARD

1, 2 | Made for all hair types, the weightless formula of Living Proof Shampoo and Conditioner delivers smoothness, volume, conditioning, strength and polish (what more could you want?!) for the perfect hair day, every day. Tack on some thickening mousse and a travel kit to take it to the next level. I ALWAYS wish I had travel sizes of my favorite products, but never think about it until the night before a flight. Save her from the procrastinator's plight. 

3 | A fresh, hand-rolled New York baker's dozen via a Bagel of the Month package is something any carb lover will lust over, and presents an excuse to host an easy at-home brunch.

4 | Clutches are like shoes: you can never have enough. I love the boxy structure of this minaudiere, and the sparkly stones make it the perfect party accessory.

5 | Many women I know take care of their skin—SPF, moisturizer—but not all indulge in fancy creams and serums. This Shiseido night cream reduces the appearance of fine lines and helps prevent deeper signs of age (YES, please), and smoothing it on before she goes to sleep will make her feel so pampered.

6 | A case for her passport makes the standard navy exterior feel more personal (to match the stamps inside!). Even if she doesn't travel internationally every week, the calf hair leopard print will offer chic relief when she does, like having a cushy neck pillow or mineral face spray in your carry-on.

7 | While a large-and-in-charge bouquet makes a statement, three or four of these bud vases in the kitchen or bedroom is a delicate and tidy accent that diffuses the pleasant scent of fresh flowers like tiny votives scattered across the mantel. 

8 | Two of my best friends (with enviable taste and Martha Stewart-like skills) swear by Real Simple. It's got it all: recipes, beauty & fashion, entertaining, weddings, health, family and work. Give a subscription to the well-rounded friend with lots of interests. 

9 | I'm always throwing loads in the wash just to get fresh sports bras and socks back into rotation. Give her a few new tops (like this seamless Athleta Fast Track Top) and help push laundry day out a little further.

10 | A modern and classic pure-cotton throw adds style and comfort to her couch. The Houston Throw is breathable with a substantial weight that makes it a great yearround option.

11, 12 | Whether she's tracking her on-the-clock to-do list or jotting down musings throughout the day (even Matthew McConaughey has a diary!), the sunny sheepskin cover on this notepad makes it a treat. Toss in a fresh set of ballpoint pens to complete the package. Like bobby pins and Chapstick, I never seem to have enough, and these neon ones will be easy to find in her purse.

13, 14, 15 | JEWELS! These three bands all have great texture and a gorgeous mix of rose and gold tones.

16 | This cheese board is three feet long, offering plenty of serving space for everything from Brie to Swiss, plus olives, prosciutto and nuts at the next book club. 

17 | Order a size up and give this cashmere V-neck as a luxuriously cozy sleep sweater. Pajamas become a real outfit in the winter (I'm in mine by six o'clock many nights!), and having a wrap to snuggle up in makes the cold, dark nights bearable. 

18 | A hefty coffee table book is always a win, especially when the subject matter combines fashion and journalism (or, you know, something your recipient is passionate about). 

 19, 20, 21 | It's hard to pick a scent for someone else, so give a couple of rollerballs (less of a commitment than a full size) she can stash in her purse. These save my life when I'm running from work to happy hour, or when I need to freshen up on the fly after the gym. 

22, 25 | Cheeky cocktail napkins are a fun complement to a sophisticated carafe, something any savvy hostess should always have on hand. 

23 | A classic hand-crocheted tote she can take everywhere from the corner co-op to weekend body pump. It folds flat, making it convenient to pack for a trip to Cabo, too.

24 | The whimsical phrase that adorns this protective iPad case makes a great life motto. It'll make her smile every time she checks her Facebook newsfeed. 

Shop GIFT GUIDE for him here.