If you need a little help with those last-minute holiday gifts, here are some ideas that are practical, inexpensive, and easy to find, thanks to stylist Sarah Shirley of Manhattan.
WOMEN'S LONG CASHMERE GLOVES
These gloves are the perfect length for those popular "bracelet sleeve" coats. They're available in Rich Red, Camel Heather, Black, and Vivid Blue. $49.50 at Lands End.
PHOTO SNOW GLOBE
Customize a snow globe with a photo of your own, as well as a ten-second personal message. The silver-plated ceramic base can hold a 1&3/4" W x 3&3/4"H photo. $29.50 at Lands End.
LICKSHOT, A PHOTO SCRAPBOOK, BY BEN WATTS
The photos in this coffee-table book, by New York photographer Ben Watts, ,are cut up, collaged, crayoned and tagged with markers to create a "scrapbook" feel. Watts is known internationally for bringing the frenetic verve of street photography to his diverse body of work. Watts' previous book, 2003's "Big Up" sold out before it was even released. $50.00 at Borders.
WOMEN'S KNIT HATS
In a range of colors and styles, these cableknit, crochet and knit hats and berets range from $30.00 - $45.00 at Banana Republic.
HEALTHY BACK BAG
This bag's ergonomic design claims to reduce apparent stress on the neck, shoulders and back. It's available in many different fabrics, colors and sizes. The extra-small bag made of distressed nylon retails for $50.00 from
ELTON JOHN CANDLE
Perfect gift for friends, teachers, or a holiday party hostess. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Elton John AIDS Foundation. The scent is "fresh Siberan pine, blended with sparkling citrus accents wrapped in the warmth of cinammon, clove and black amber. $25 at Macys.
JONATHAN ADLER SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS
A playful collection of ceramic animals that comes packaged in a cute gift box. $48.00 at Jonathan Adler.
WATER BOTTLES FOR A CAUSE
Reusable stainless steel water bottles are a non-toxic, non-leaching alternative to plastic water bottles. And a portion of the sales of these items helps a cause. The Surfrider Rise Above Plastics Canteen sells for $19.95 and helps Surfrider.
The 20 ounce/.6 liter "I Bottle My Own" water bottle is produced by Enviroproductsinc.com and includes a ring top screw cap and matching carabiner clip. It comes in blue, aqua, red and silver. $20.00, and partial proceeds help Riverkeeper.
AMERICAN EXPRESS GIFT CARD
These cards can be registered, so that they can be replaced if you lose them. There are no fees now. You can buy them online or purchase them at mass retailers, drugstores and supermarkets. You can also put the card in a nice coin purse or wristlet to make the gift more personal. They sell in denominations from $25 and up.
