THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EVERY WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE

This year we thought instead of coming up with a generic list of gift giving ideas we would capitalize on the rich variety of women we have on our staff and have them share a few of their favorite things that would make perfect gifts for women with their unique areas of interest.

GIFT GUIDE FOR FOOD LOVERS

Lauren who joined us in 2015 has studied at the Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy and worked in the restaurant industry as a chef; once the reality of the rigors of the restaurant business set-in she decided to switch gears and leave the culinary creativity for home. She offered up her gift suggestions that even the novice home chef or food lover will be delighted to receive.

ART INSPIRED CUSTOM KNIVES:

This item is definitely a splurge, each knife is handmade and designed not only to work well but to be a work of art in and of itself. This is a dream gift for me but I have added it to my list for Santa.

Middleton Knives

THE WINE WAND:Generally, if you love food you love wine; this rule definitely applies to me but I hate dealing with the allergic reaction I can sometimes have to sulfites and histamines in wine, a headache and stuffy nose can really rob this indulgence of its enjoyment. The Wine Wand allows you to enjoy your favorite wine with no down-side. This amazing filter aerates the wine, absorbs histamines and removes sulfites so you can enjoy every glass with no regrets. Pure genius!

Wine Wand

HEIRLOOM CUTTING BOARD:

This item is also on the pricey side but I feel so inspired by its beauty every time I use it, definitely worth the splurge.

Heirloom Cutting Board

MCCONNELL’S ICE CREAM PINT-OF-THE-MONTH CLUB:

Even the most experienced chef or home cook really doesn’t want to go through the effort to make ice cream, so this is the perfect treat. McConnell’s makes all of their ice cream in small batches with raw unpasteurized grass-grazed cows. All of their gourmet blends include raw, local, sustainable, organic ingredients.

Pint of The Month Club

STRAPLESS MAXI DRESS:
One of the most important things when I am in the kitchen prepping food or entertaining guests is to look good and be comfortable. I love this simple strapless maxi dress by Hale Bob; I can move around easily, no worrying about flashing someone if I have to bend over to take something out of the oven and there is plenty of room if I decide to have a second helping of dessert.

Braxton Maxi Dress

SEXY LINGERIE:

I like getting something personal and feminine from my significant other that makes me feel like I am still his babe. Personally I love wearing sexy lingerie under everything, even jeans and a sweatshirt, It just makes me feel like a woman.

Adore Me Noreh Bra and Panties

 

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE OUTDOORSY WOMAN

Alexis is the outdoors woman of the group. When she is not working she spends her time training horses and teaching horse back riding lessons to the youth in her area. Here are a few of her favorite things.

SMITH OPTICS SERPICO SUNGLASSES:
I am always in need of new sunglasses. Being outside all the time means lots of sun protection. I have had several pairs of these glasses they fit good and they last. A definite favorite.

Serpico Sunglasses

CUSTOM COWGIRL HAT:

Cowgirls For Christ is a company I discovered last year at Cowboy Christmas. I got one of these last year and I absolutely love it. It provides great shade from the sun, fits great and is unique to me.

BOGS RAIN/SNOW BOOTS:
I spend a lot of time in the mud and snow, a good pair of boots goes a long way. I love these because there are not laces so they are easy to slip on and off. They are dry, warm and cute; of course it is important to look cute even if you are cleaning out stalls.

Bogs Plaid Boots

STRETCH PONTE LEGGINGS:

Let me just say, I love leggings! They are so comfortable and easy to move around in, you can dress them up or down, they fit nicely inside of a pair of riding boots and can be worn as riding britches. The Ponte fabric on these keeps them from stretching out so they hold their shape.

Ponte Leggings

CLASSIC COMFORTABLE UNDIES:

Okay, so I know undies for Christmas is not usually high on the list or is the classic gift from grandma no, no but when they are this cute I think any woman would be happy to receive them.

Adore Me Rosalia Bralette and Panty

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE WORKING MOM

Hannah is our working mom in the group. As all working mom’s know finding the right work life balance is challenging to say the least. Below is her wish list this year. Oh hubby, are you listening?

SEND A MEAL:

This company delivers gourmet meals right to your door. Having dinner covered every once in a while is at the top of my list for gifts I would love to receive because that means when the kiddos get home from school I could actually give them my undivided attention with homework or play a board game.

Send A Meal

PORTABLE PHOTO PRINTER:

I love capturing moments on my phone but never get those photos printed and they end up staying in this supposedly smartphone instead of on my wall, so a photo printer that can print image directly from the phone is the perfect solution. Not to mention when we are at Grandma and Grandpa’s house I can live them with a printed photo of the kids on the spot.

Sprocket Photo Printer

HOME THERAPY:
No not the psychological kind but I have to admit some days I feel like I need that as well. Some evenings I just need to wind down and I feel bad even thinking about going to the spa so this home spa retreat set is my choice, it definitely helps me keep my sanity.

Invigorating Retreat

CHARM BRACELET:

I’m sentimental but not to big on crazy knick knack’s to remind me of special times with my family (dusting is not my favorite chore). Solution, I’ve always loved charm bracelets but have never felt great about purchasing one for myself because I’ve always felt that something like that should be a gift.
Bracelet
Charms

LEATHER EMBOSSED SWEATSHIRT:

I like being fashionable but with kids acticality and comfort normally come first, I love this sweatshirt because it is comfortable and the leather detail gives it that fashionable edge so I can wear it without looking frumpy.

Alma Embossed Sweatshirt
LUXURIOUS JAMMIES:

With kids around lingerie is not really practical but I still want to feel feminine and sexy in a toned down sort of way, of course. I love this Adore Me Fallon knit jogger set, it is comfortable but still makes me feel really feminine.

Adore Me Fallon Jogger Set

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE STUDENT

Brittany is our student, still in the process of growing her young mind and deciding which PHD she is going to pursue. But she definitely knows her own mind when it comes to the perfect Christmas gift. Here are her selections.

BOOK-OF-THE-MONTH-CLUB:

I love to read. I strongly believe that by reading regularly it keeps your mind fluid and very imaginative. Whether random articles about the fluctuation of bird populations in the Northwest of the United States, fun tips on how to be more energetic every day or a great mystery novel; you can never go wrong getting me a book. I love this book of the month club because you pick the genre and your interest and then a knew literary adventure shows up at your door once a month.

Book of The Month Club

FASHIONABLE SNUGGIE:
What better to cover up under while you’re studying or reading than a One Piece? Especially when you are forced to sit at a desk, a One Piece is a sure way to keep your entire body warm and still have easy arm access. This is totally what I look like at my desk, LOL.

One Piece Onesie

PIZZA CUTTING PROTRACTOR:

I am sure this is an amazing two-fer that is definitely a students dream!

Pizza Cutting Protractor

WACKY COFFEE MUGS:

When I’m cuddled up at home I like to have coffee and it’s always nice having some sort of wacky mug to remind me of home. Another favorite; travel mugs they make staying awake during class a lot easier.

Wacky Mugs

THE PERFECT SWEATSHIRT:

 

Draped Sweatshirt

Cutout Shoulders

This sweatshirt by Liberty Garden is perfect to wear to class or at home studying. You can look stylish while also being comfortable.

COMFY SLEEPWEAR:

I can always use another pair of adorable PJ’s.

Adore Me Nicoletta Jammies

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE TRADITIONALIST

Ashley is our traditionalist of the group, she loves all things feminine, tailored and luxurious. Here is her Christmas Wish List.

CASHMERE INDULGENCE:
My Christmas List indulgence this year is a 100% Pure Cashmere Hat, Glove, Scarf set from Fisher’s Finery. I love Pure Cashmere; it is so soft and warm it gives you that sense of being snuggled up by the fire every time you put it on.

Cashmere Winter Set

AURA CONNECTED ALARM CLOCK:

What I’m dreaming of for Christmas is a good night’s sleep, so on my Christmas List is the Aura Connected Alarm Clock. This little gadget provides the right light waves to promote a relaxing environment to induce sleep, along with sounds that can help soothe you to sleep. It can also be customized to your light and music preferences for a gentle wake-up experience.

Aura Connected Alarm Clock

MASSAGE ENVY GIFT CARD:
One of the bests gifts I ever received was a massage. I had never done anything to pamper myself before and this was a novelty that I always considered outside my usual time and expense. However, once I did take advantage of this amazing gift, I was completely hooked. Thereafter, I made time and set aside the finance to make this special occasion part of my routine every few months. Each time I went in for pampering I felt more and more rested. An added perk is that I got to develop a friendship with my massage therapist.

Massage Envy

RUFFLE NECK BLOUSE:

There is a revival of the ruffle neck blouse and my Christmas List is not immune to its attraction. I am in love with this trend as it lends femininity to what is usually a stiff, buttoned down tradition. So this year I am wishing for Ann Taylor’s Tie Neck Ruffle.

Tie Neck Ruffled Blouse

JACQUARD KNIT DRESS:

This Hale Bob dress perfect for any occasion, it’s flattering, demure and a great transition piece.

Morgan Jacquard Knit Dress

TAILORED PAJAMA’S

I confess, I am even traditional when it comes to P.J.’s. I love these because they are so soft and comfy; and honestly I think leaving something up to the imagination can be very sexy.

Adore Me Matilda Pajama Set

 

Well there you have it, some advice from the girl’s on  our staff here at Posh At Play. We hope you have found there suggestions helpful and will have some very pleased recipients of your generosity this Christmas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOTS OF LOVELY LEGGINGS

Never since this years controversial debates between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton has there been such a hotly debated topic as whether or not leggings are pants. The parties on each side of this controversy are passionate about their position but we are hoping through this post we can prove to the naysayers that leggings are indeed worthy of being placed in the category of pants. What I ask you is more comfortable to wear then a pair of leggings? They allow the ease of movement of a dress or skirt without the risk of being exposed. They provide the coverage of a jean or pant without feeling binding and restrictive on the body. There are days when I have thrown on a pair of leggings and a sweater and actually forgotten I have anything on (perhaps that’s just me). If styled well they can be dressed up or down and worn for literally any occasion.

This week we celebrate the legging (as pant) with a presentation of our favorite styles which enhance the basic legging with luxurious fabrics and unique flair.

THE LEATHER LEGGING

Leather leggings elevate any style. They can make an outfit look sophisticated or just a little edgy depending on your personal styling. Some of our favorite combos for the leather legging are a beautiful oversized cashmere sweater with a pair of killer leopard print stilettos or dress them down with a cute army jacket, t-shirt and pair of motorcycle boots.

Vegan Leather Leggings:
Marlina Coated Leggings
Rugged Faux Leather Leggings
Kate Embossed Leggings

THE SUEDE LEGGING

Who doesn’t love suede? Suede always looks so rich, smooth and inviting like your favorite vanilla latte. It is almost impossible to resist reaching out and touching this fabric (albeit not always socially acceptable). To me suede equals luxury and it can be worn with everything from a t-shirt (instant chic) to a very tailored jacket with tall boots for the office but our favorite look is paired with a very romantic spun cotton and lace peasant blouse. Date night awaits, there is no way he can resist this look.

Another derivation of this look is the classic suede patch leggings. A touch of the luxe without being to bold at work.

Sensational Suede Picks
Pascalla Suede Leggings
Joe Ivory Ultra Suede Leggings
Ivory Suede Patch Leggings

CARGO PANT LEGGING

At first thought these leggings may seem a little counter intuitive to the main point of what a legging is supposed to be; simple, streamlined, smooth and they can be a little more challenging to wear if you have wider hips but if paired properly with a light over-sized shirt or fitted jacket they can make for a great addition to your legging collection. WARNING: avoid any chunky, heavy, over-sized sweaters which can make the whole outfit look frumpy.

Leggings for the utilitarian:
Black Ponte Cargo Leggings
Silver Ponte Cargo Leggings
Rowan Cargo Skinnies

Casual Comfort!

Great for On The Go!

THE PRINTED LEGGING

These might be the hardest leggings to pull off but they are soooo cute! You see them at the store, you can not resist the impulse buy and then you get home an wonder, now what? Where am I ever going to wear these? The key to pulling off the printed legging is making sure that the entire outfit does not get to busy. The best way to achieve this is with a simple, solid-colored top, avoid a lot of embellishment with jewelry or scarves, let your leggings speak for themselves and supply the pop of color and interest to your outfit without looking garish. Keep it simple!

Perfect printed leggings:
Floral Jersey Leggings
Purple Printed Leggings
Taylor Jersey Leggings

So, showcase your legs a little this season and find the perfect comfort and fashion balance that best fits you. Because, we here at Posh At Play always encourage you to
BE YOU, BE FABULOUS, AND ALWAYS BE FEMININE.

 

 

 

 

 

FUNCTIONAL FASHION: MAXIMIZING YOUR WARDROBE

We’d all like to make our lives a little easier and functional, spending less yet gaining a little more. Whether you’re an “on the go” girl who’s looking for transitional clothing to go from morning to evening, a traveler who needs to pack light, or you are just looking to simplify your wardrobe, take a look at our “Functional Fashion” picks that are a must have for this season.

ITEMS YOU CAN WEAR MORNING TO EVENING

We all have busy lives to lead and who wants to think about packing a bunch of clothes for the entire day? Why not grab a great versatile piece that can carry you from morning to evening? Go with a chic black jumpsuit, demure enough for the office, yet spiced up in the evening with a quick change of shoes and a cozy feather or sequined jacket.

Make like Kendall Jenner and have your jumpsuit work with you in your favorite comfy boat shoes or sneakers to keep you moving all day long. Your streamlined outfit might not come fashioned with enough pockets to hold all your necessities throughout all your activities.

THERE’S NO SHAME IN COMFY SHOES

Let your comfy shoes take you places this Season. While we love a good heel now and again, there’s no problem with taking a “lower” road this year. When you are on the go, the last thing you want is for your feet to give out mid-day. We are loving the “ballerina” flat for Fall. Comfy and chic, this shoe can pair easily with your favorite skinnies, leggings, or midi skirts throughout the Season.

AND bonus points: we love these “foldable” flats that can slip easily into your purse for a quick change throughout the day. Slip off your work heels and pull out your flats when you need to dash around town for a few errands or activities with the kids feeling fab and fashionable this Season.

And you MUST include the ankle boot into your Autumn wardrobe. Warm, comfy, and stylish, the ankle boot is perfect to pair with everything from your favorite cropped jeans, to leggings, to even a maxi dress or skirt.

OMG! Ugg boots are still in style for Fall? Of course they are. These are the perfect comfy functional shoe to fit into your daily routine. Able to pair with anything, these boots will keep you warm and stylish all Season long.

Celebs from Sarah Jessica Parker, to Ashley Greene, to Kendall Jenner have been spotted sporting the trend. So what’s keeping you from pulling out your comfy Uggs? OR go ahead and buy some new ones for the current Season.

Need some more celeb “Ugg style” inspiration? Click here to check out more styles:
Celebrity Fall Ugg Style Options

GO MODERN WITH REVERSIBLE CLOTHING

Clothing is having an era of re-birth with the reversible fashion trend. The simplest way to switch your outfit in an instant is with “reversible clothing,”an item that can be turned inside out to completely change the look, feel, and color. We are crushing on Jia Collection’s branding style. Now you can have several different styling options with just one simple garment.

With their wide variety of dresses, knits, and jackets, you can go from morning at work to lunch with the girls to date night in the evening wearing a completely different look, but the same item all day long.

We also like Helene Clarkson’s clean yet flattering line suitable to take you all over the world with just a few key pieces tucked into your carry-on. From business to pleasure, you’ll only have to pack a few items with her reversible skirts, blouses, and jackets.

Don’t just stop at your daytime wardrobe. Why not try reversible active wear for your daily workout routine. No need to spend a fortune on sports attire- make your fitness fashion go double duty by investing in reversible sports bras, leggings, or jackets.

Reversible Leggings

Reversible Leggings

Reversible Sports Bras

A comfy pair of leggings can work for you day or night, paired with a blazer for work, a Tee for daytime, your reversible crop for workouts, and a sequined top for nighttime activities.

Check out our favorite legging options here:
“Pascalla” Black Ultra Suede Leggings
“Jepson” Ponte Stretch Leggings
“Taylor” Blue Print Jersey Leggings

While you are on the go, consider clever travel pieces which include built in pockets that allow you to stay moving without the need of a purse or extra baggage. Check out the Clever Travel Companion fashion line suitable for workouts, travel, and active days. Not only are money belts, fanny packs, and vests the opposite of fashionable, but they can also make you more of a target for scams and crime, especially when traveling.

CONVERTIBLE CLOTHING 

You can also make one item work for you without it being “reversible.” Why not try the convertible clothing option using one item in a variety of different ways. We are loving Elizabeth and James’s convertible trench and the multitude of different ways you can fashion one item of clothing. Traveling has never been easier and your closet will thank you. Wear as trench for cooler days, take off the sleeves for a cute shirt dress effect, then take away the bottom for a chic cropped jacket.

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS THE ONESIE IS YOUR GO-TO

It’s an expression of the need to disconnect from the pre-scheduled daily routines. Inspired by the ones who come alive when the shift ends, living life on an inverted schedule, as kings and queens of the moment, the onesie is a huge trend this Season. From celebs like Beyonce to Kylie Jenner, everyone is getting on board the newest fully functional wardrobe necessity.

Check out the site “Onepiece” who’s setting the mark on this Season’s latest trend. Whether you have a long flight ahead of you, pair with a jacket for errands around town, or snuggle up for a cozy night in, the onesie is a fashion statement that can travel with you wherever you go.

On the go all day, flying through the airport, or just don’t have time to make it home, functional fashion can be your friend this Season. If you choose to slip a sweater over that maxi, switch out your handbag for a wristlet, pair your summer shorts with a cozy pair of tight, or take on the “onesie,” there are limitless ways to stay stylish while cozy this Season.

No matter how you decide to stay “functional,” remember:
Be YOU, Be Fashionable, and ALWAYS Be Feminine.