Guys don't like "yummy" leather. They like beautiful, rugged leather that will wear well and end up distressed and personal.
Give him a thick, sturdy journal that only improves with every throwing in backpack, backseat, and front hall table.
Custom work, too, with the motto "Pull it one more mile".
$26
Being featured on Foil Studio is this site's first truly awesome experience! The creator of the In-line Scarf, below, has invited us into her world.
I'm beyond thrilled. Check it out!
Made from the same durable, featherweight stuff used to make motorcycle helmets, this shelving unit was inspired by ancient Roman block-building techniques, dried riverbeds, and sidewalks.
Swissmiss points out that these can be stacked to make a whole wall of distinctive book storage, or combined with others to make a room divider.
Finally a bookshelf that encourages the taking out and reading of books.
*Further thought reveals that this bookshelf would be great for separating and organizing genres. Or keeping your Sichos Mussar separate from your Lekutei Sichos. It just works.
$450
Fantastic website, unattainable language most probably with fantastic pronunciation, but who knows really. I can't even tell you what these cost.
The name is similar to Pantone so maybe it means color? These are some enviable chairs in vibrant yet livable colors in a superb design that is also available in a junior version.
Shown with great effect in this room here.
Sweet Paisley Wristlet Keychain
Loops onto your wrist so you can both carry the grocery bags and quickly unlock your car in the dark parking lot at night.
$6.50
I'm serious: FLAWLESS without the liquids, blending, and drugstore panic when I can't remember my shade. Easy powder melts into the skin and 5 minutes later-- instant perfection without a trace of dryness... just dewy and perfect.
And just when I think it's not possible, this bronzer makes it even better, even on my never-seen-sunshine-are-you-sure-you're-not-Irish skin.
Some days I have to stand in front of the mirror and marvel at myself.
Well worth the $60
Florence Transit Necklace
Sometimes I feel like we're just this close to our own love story and the reality of our own wanderlust.
Necklace, $28
While You Were Sleeping, $3.99
From the outside, M came off as a girl who played it safe. Muted colors, non-committal jewelry, arms full of books, and a face full of quiet smiles. Inside, though, was spunk and big sky dreams and a laugh that--for now-- was a mere sparkle in her eye. But it was there and, someday soon, it was sure to surface.
Reduced to $29.95
You know when something's a little strange but you want it anyway?
Now I only wish she would make a Rainbow Fish version.
$24
It's not unusual for me to stand in front of the fridge for hours without finding a thing to eat, but now I can do it with the door closed. Magnetic poetry is fun and inspiring and there's nothing like the thrill of putting together a funny or perfect sentence and then laughing at it. It's just so satisfying.
One of the best presents ever.
$19.95
Bad photo, beautiful piece. I took a three-and-a-half-foot pile of cardboard gift boxes and neatly organized their contents in this sleek case.
It's art deco. It's Daisy in a white dress. It's old Hollywood. It's enthralling on my dresser with a bottle of perfume and earrings thrown on top.
I spent 30, but you get it on sale for $19.99
Repeat after me:
I will not warm my fingers on the inside of the crock pot.
I will not warm my fingers on the lightbox book posters at Barnes and Noble.
Instead I will warm them on an insanely beautiful mug and sip coffee, pretending that I'm seated in a booth discussing campaign strategy and wondering if Chelsea will ever get that car parked.
$8
A Shady Lane Checkbook Cover
I find that suddenly I'm the kind of person who sees the word "sketchbook" and automatically assumes it says "checkbook". Have I left creativity behind in favor of financial planning and obsession over future student loans?
Make the two worlds meet with this checkbook cover, based on the insightful (and appropriate) quote: "The worlds collide, but all that we want is a shady lane."
$12
Portabile Corta
It's official: Cool eighties throwback design is expensive. Durable vinyl construction pairs with sharp, clean configuration to make this bag as hard-working as it is beautiful.
I Heart Lloyd t-shirt not included. Buy separately here, courtesy of Mighty Goods.
$170
Handmade Julz Graphic Bracelet
So often photos stay packed neatly in computer files, special occasion outfits remain tucked in protective tissue, and self expression is left on the doodled margins of college notebooks.
Back when I was a graphic design major (oh, a year or so ago) I also was frustrated that my small breakthroughs stayed inert and flat in folders. Here a graphic designer airs her designs (and yours too, if you can attach and email) under glass spheres. Custom copper wiring takes what was hidden and makes it personal and unique.
$25 (+$10 for emailed submissions)
Back in the old days, when women had weekly hair appointments and swirly handwriting, monogrammed stationary was normal and expected.
Now, when most of us blowdry at home and have never held a fountain pen, elegant personal stationary is unspeakably chic and fun.
Set of 10, also available in cranberry, $12
Now you can Bop It to four new beats: Pop, Latin, Rock, and R&B. Increased skills unlock layers and layers of new rhythms. The longer you last, the more the beat "evolves and changes."
I pick the white Apple-esque design, but the shiny black is the ultimate gift for brothers, fathers, and pizza delivery guys. Classic edition still available.
$29.95
