The-Steele-Maiden-Cheap-Monday-Series-Boys-Club
Last week’s Cheap Monday post was the first in kicking off my holiday gift giving suggestions, and this week continues the theme – this time focusing on gifts for men…


It seems that no matter how well you know the men in your life, come this time of year, buying for brothers, dads, boyfriends etc. suddenly becomes incredibly daunting.  Since a big screen TV is usually not in the budget, I suggest going with something that you know they’ll use, but may not spring for themselves.  Below, a few suggestions..

Nest: Not many guys will swoon over a new throw pillow, but a personalized decanter (like this option from West Elm) is exactly the time of home decor that your boyfriend will appreciate.  Go traditional and put his initials on the cork, or have some fun with a short phrase like ‘refills’ or ‘enough’.  Gift it with a nice bottle of whiskey for extra bonus points.

Dressed:  Pay homage to their favorite day of the week with this quality graphic t-shirt from Saturdays Surf NYC, great for your younger brother who may need a hint that it’s time to throw away those old childish tees.  

The Rest: Most men grab the same bar soap and shampoo day after day – but if you gave them a quality Kiehls set, I promise they’d never want to go back.  Not only is this a great starter set that let’s them try a little bit of everything, it would also be great for your dad’s next trip or a brother in law that’s always traveling for business.  

The-Steele-Maiden-Cheap-Monday-Series-Boys-Club
Last week’s Cheap Monday post was the first in kicking off my holiday gift giving suggestions, and this week continues the theme – this time focusing on gifts for men…


It seems that no matter how well you know the men in your life, come this time of year, buying for brothers, dads, boyfriends etc. suddenly becomes incredibly daunting.  Since a big screen TV is usually not in the budget, I suggest going with something that you know they’ll use, but may not spring for themselves.  Below, a few suggestions..

Nest: Not many guys will swoon over a new throw pillow, but a personalized decanter (like this option from West Elm) is exactly the time of home decor that your boyfriend will appreciate.  Go traditional and put his initials on the cork, or have some fun with a short phrase like ‘refills’ or ‘enough’.  Gift it with a nice bottle of whiskey for extra bonus points.

Dressed:  Pay homage to their favorite day of the week with this quality graphic t-shirt from Saturdays Surf NYC, great for your younger brother who may need a hint that it’s time to throw away those old childish tees.  

The Rest: Most men grab the same bar soap and shampoo day after day – but if you gave them a quality Kiehls set, I promise they’d never want to go back.  Not only is this a great starter set that let’s them try a little bit of everything, it would also be great for your dad’s next trip or a brother in law that’s always traveling for business.  

The-Steele-Maiden-Matchmaker-Series-Thanksgiving-Day-Post

Is it just me, or did Black Friday come early?  My inbox has been flooded with store sales this weekend, but luckily it allows the perfect chance to buy a Thanksgiving Day dress without the guilt that comes from shopping for yourself too close to Christmas..

Rules for Thanksgiving Day dressing are first and foremost comfort, but preferably in a way that still feels festive.  Above that translates to an easy dress, simple flats, and a few pretty extras.  For those who go out to eat, use it as a chance to be a little fancier – with a flouncy printed dress and sparkly add ons.  If you’re hosting (which I am), a neutral floral shift dress that won’t wrinkle – and may even hide a few stains – will be a life saver.  Round out the mod mood with ballet flats and glittery barrettes to keep your hair out of your face while cooking.  And for those headed to the In-Laws (or other family dinners), a textured shirtdress and classic accessories will make you a chic guest.  All three dresses are under $100 (two are on sale!), and all are far more polished than those elastic waist leggings you were considering.  

(Reservations: Bauble Bar Earrings, BCBGeneration Dress, Forever 21 Flats)
(Hosting: Ban.Do Barrettes, Madewell Dress, J.Crew Flats)
(In Laws: Nicholas ID Bracelet, Ruche Dress, Marais Flats)

The-Steele-Maiden-Matchmaker-Series-Thanksgiving-Day-Post

Is it just me, or did Black Friday come early?  My inbox has been flooded with store sales this weekend, but luckily it allows the perfect chance to buy a Thanksgiving Day dress without the guilt that comes from shopping for yourself too close to Christmas..

Rules for Thanksgiving Day dressing are first and foremost comfort, but preferably in a way that still feels festive.  Above that translates to an easy dress, simple flats, and a few pretty extras.  For those who go out to eat, use it as a chance to be a little fancier – with a flouncy printed dress and sparkly add ons.  If you’re hosting (which I am), a neutral floral shift dress that won’t wrinkle – and may even hide a few stains – will be a life saver.  Round out the mod mood with ballet flats and glittery barrettes to keep your hair out of your face while cooking.  And for those headed to the In-Laws (or other family dinners), a textured shirtdress and classic accessories will make you a chic guest.  All three dresses are under $100 (two are on sale!), and all are far more polished than those elastic waist leggings you were considering.  

(Reservations: Bauble Bar Earrings, BCBGeneration Dress, Forever 21 Flats)
(Hosting: Ban.Do Barrettes, Madewell Dress, J.Crew Flats)
(In Laws: Nicholas ID Bracelet, Ruche Dress, Marais Flats)

the-steele-maiden-happy-friday-think-pink

There’s a lot that’s been said about pastels for fall/winter this year and maybe it’s because the weather in Southern California still feels like early Spring, but I’m totally on board.  There’s just something so nonchalantly cool about throwing a leather bomber jacket and ankle boots on with a shiny pink dress.  Or carrying a romantic literary inspired pink clutch with jeans and a chunky sweater.  And while I’m not quite sure the boy will agree, I like to daydream about washed out pink walls with a plush couch and rustic wooden accents.  Now go see the weekend through rose colored glasses, Happy Friday!

(Dress; Album; Kate Spade clutch; Room)