Second City Style Fashion Blog - Style, Luxury, Beauty & Shopping

Holiday Shopping. The Twelve Days Of Christmas (Shopping).

The Twelve Days Of Christmas (Shopping) is on the Second City Style Blog

Second City Style is proud to present our second annual holiday gift guide. Every weekday for 12 days we have been posting each of our fashion contributor's holiday wish lists. Use them as inspiration, guidance or ideas. Lord knows we have been getting some fab ideas from each other.

Use the link above to see them all.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Second City Style!

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 13: Rachel Yeomans’ Finds Above a Dime Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

After combing through resale shops, vintage wear and discount deals for our lovely and fashionable SCS readers, I have decided that my personal Christmas list will consist of everything but. I love a good deal, but after drooling over many-a-full-priced item throughout the year, here are some fabulous (yet not-so-frugal) finds I would love to see under my Christmas tree.

Marc Jacobs Short Trench Coat – ($1,900) Net-a-Porter

I have only ever owned one trench in my style career, and it’s the standard, classic useful trench that has weathered many storms and gone with every outfit. So this Marc Jacobs cover-up is not necessarily needed, but the fantastic green and trendy shorter length would make a perfect introduction into the spring season.

Samsonite Black Label Luggage  ($300-$600) Neiman Marcus

Beauty Case ($300); Duffel ($400); Wheeled Upright ($600); 22” Wheeled Upright ($500); Combining craftsmanship and fashion to my business travels (priceless)

Milano Italian Leather Vertical Laptop Wheeler – ($295) SuperiorLuggage

Making sure I get in that airport terminal line early enough to get an overhead compartment is stressful enough. Add that stress to my back from my 20-pound briefcase, and I’m spent before I even make it to my morning meetings. Not only is this adorable briefcase slim enough to fit above any window seat, but the best Christmas present would be saving me from those knots in my back!

Diane von Furstenberg Bilboa Cowlneck Dress – ($365) Saks Fifth Avenue

Oh how I LOVE the sweater dress! I’ve been on a hunt for the perfect sweater dress (or several) for winter that is simple enough for me to accessorize for different occasions and shapely enough to avoid the weekend-wear look. This one by Diane von Furstenberg is so elegant and lovely, I could be warm and fashionable throughout the entire season!

Christian Louboutin La Donna Mary Jane Pump – ($600) Neiman Marcus

How can one woman’s closet ever be complete without the classic Mary Jane pump?! I have a pair of Kedzie black patent Mary Jane’s that I love, but I admit they are a strut and a leap away from my dream of owning these gorgeous Louboutin’s. If I could have these for Christmas, I’d be happy for two seasons!

David Yurman Citrine Cushion Capri Pendant Necklace – ($1,800) Neiman Marcus

I must now be cliché and wrap up my Holiday Wish List with none other than the extravagant piece of jewelry. But I have adored David Yurman for years and one day wish to own just one of his pieces, and this gorgeous pendant is at the moment on the top of that list.

Now I leave you dear readers, to return to my deals and discounts. But thank you kindly for allowing me to indulge in my seemingly ridiculous fashion fantasies for a couple paragraphs. If Christmas is the time for wishing, I am taking it in stride! Happy Holidays!!

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 12: Simona Kogan's Celebrity Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

As a celebrity style columnist for Second City Style, I’m always searching for the latest eye-catching celebrity fashions that aren’t too over-the-top. I’m always amazed with what these tres chic fashionistas can really pull off. I admit, I can’t stick to Mary-Kate’s six-inch Giambattista Valli peeptoes or J.Lo’s pre-pregnancy Roberto Cavalli wardrobe. But what I can pull off, I’m asking for this holiday and I have my favorite celebrity style icons to thank.

1. This season, I’m eyeing everything patent. Apparently, so is Hilary Duff. Luxe leather with an easy sheen is a sumptuous accent to any glamour girl’s wardrobe. Well, Hilary Duff beat me to it—toting this gleaming D&G Large Leather Satchel from Los Angeles to New York. She carries it religiously. Maybe this Christmas, if I’m lucky, I’ll be carrying mine around too.

D&G Dolce & Gabbana Large Satchel with Lock $1110 Neiman Marcus

2. I was lucky enough to be a celeb fragrances product tester for a current celeb magazine. Unfortunately, I was asked to test Paris Hilton’s sugar-coated Can-Can fragrance, a smell too syrupy sweet for my taste. Another friend was lucky enough to test Gwen Stefani’s ultra-luxe L.A.M.B. fragrance, which I instantly wanted the minute I caught a whiff. Gwen’s signature scent has a sensuous combo of floral and musk that is just so right! And the boxy rainbow bottle is utterly couture without the couture prices. I want it in my collection!

L.A.M.B. Fragerance 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray $70 Sephora

3. Celebs are usually all about Christian Louboutin’s glamorous peep-toes. We’ve seen Jessica Simpson rock the nude ones and Hayden Panettiere rock the black ones. For me, winter is not about peep-toes, it’s about boots and this season, it’s all about booties! So why not combine my favorite shoe designer with my favorite trend this season. I want to pick up a pair of Louboutin’s Miss Fred Tacco booties with its gorgeous gold piping and CL’s signature red sole. It’s so celeb-worthy, I’m waiting to see which superstar wears this one first!

Christian Louboutin Miss Fred Tacco Boots $485.90 Saks Fifth Avenue

4. I’m all about CW’s newest show Gossip Girl, but not for its scenester NYC moments or its lust-worthy cast. What I’m really craving is the cast’s casual cool designer threads—a mix of high and low from couture designers and retail mavens. First on my list is this Tory Burch Mercedes Trench, a classic design with a luscious sheen. Leighton Meester wore it and soon it may be me!

Tory Burch Mercedes Trench $798 Tory Burch

5 & 6. Celebs are all about menswear-inspired pencil skirts this fall and so am I. Like Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner, and Angelina Jolie, I hope to look tres sophisticate in mine this holiday. I’m taking a cue from Second City Style and going for two incredibly hot designers with two incredibly sleek styles.

Robert Rodriguez Leather Pencil Skirt $495 Bergdorf Goodman

Orlando Espinoza Pleated Pencil Hem Skirt $290 Second City Store

7. Too often I find myself plucking an haute black number from the racks mostly because its slimming and seductive. But this Christmas, in honor of my favorite celebs, I’d like to do it up just a little bit different. Since they’re all about trying new trends without sticking out like a sore thumb, I’m all about splashing on some cobalt blue with this elegant Mayle Alyosha Iris Blouse from my new favorite boutique Hejfina. Eva Longoria better watch out!

Mayle Alyosha iris blouse $298 Hejfina

Photos: People.com, Second City Style, Wireimage, FabSugar, Sephora.com

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 11: Gabbie Perez's Parisian Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

This year, my Christmas wish list has no theme. Rather, it includes only things that I really want (although I think I say that every year). So, my dear family and friends, pay close attention to the items that follow!

Repetto Ballet Flat (€140 at Galleries LaFayette)

My favorite ballet flat. My favorite color. Repettos are a girl’s best friend—they are the most comfortable shoes I own. And I can’t believe that an established Parisian ballet slipper company has caught onto the New Rave neon color trend. I must say, I really dig this electric salmon slipper.

Birds in Paris Scarf ($24 at Urban Outfitters)

Maybe I’m just a sucker for anything embellished with the Eiffel Tower (I do live in Paris and all), but this scarf screams, “I love Paris in the spring time.” And I’m always ready for Paris in the spring time.

Orchid Strapless Dress by 3.1 Phillip Lim ($626 at Barney’s Co-Op)

I swear, Phillip Lim can do no wrong. This is the dress in which I want to dance the night away on New Year’s Eve, and also my pending college graduation. It shimmers, it shines, and I adore the abstracted orchid detail.



Dita Cruz sunglasses ($275 at Barney’s Co-Op)

I am a sunglasses fanatic. And it seems like I’ve had my eyes on this pair forever. Everyone needs a pair of aviators, and these just happen to be the ultimate pair. (Come on, Sue, you know you want to buy them for me…)

OPI Blue My Mind ($7.50 at OPI.com)

Black nail polish was so Fall 2006. I don’t think I’ve worn blue nail polish since middle school, but recently I’ve had the urge to go daring with my nail polish color choice. This royal blue is more fun than red, more unique than beige, more daring than vamp. (And it’s the cheapest item on my list!)


Cheap Monday Tight Jean Violet ($65 at Urban Outfitters)

The skinny may have been a seasonal trend in the States, but not in Europe. I am a skinny convert… it’s going to be a long time before I buy a pair of boot-cut jeans again. Cheap Mondays are the hottest jeans on 20-something Parisian women. Just look for the skull patch above the back right pocket (it’s hard to miss). This violet denim is such a funky alternative to black and grey, don’t you think?

Animal Print Faux-Fur Shrug ($268 at Banana Republic)

Saving the best ‘fur’ last… I’m sorry, there is nothing chicer than fur. But I have found one that’s PETA-approved and in my favorite cropped cut. Attention Mom and Dad: this is what I really want for Christmas!

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 10: Carol Calacci's Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

I'm not quite Scrooge, but I'm in a no-nonsense, let's get it done mood this holiday season. When I put together my wish list I noticed a recurring theme. I'm "wishing for" everything that's strong, modern and powerful. No turtle doves for me! The overt superhero theme from Spring '08 seems to have crept up on me in Fall '07, only in a much sleeker and darker way. I'm dreaming of a Zip-Zap-Zoom Christmas!

1. I'd like to bend steel wearing these long patent gloves....in either dark green or plum. Surprise me! GIM Patent Gloves - neimanmarcus.com

2. These boots caught my eye. They have a perfect heel height, and I like the modern (yet somewhat 80's) twist of curved black elastic goring. They wont' go unnoticed...I'll be Superwoman! Leopoldo Giordano Boots - shopbop.com

3. I love the cool simplicity of this sleek Orlando Espinoza dress. It's understated yet makes a powerful statement.  Orlando Espinoza Sleeveless Dress - secondcitystore.com

4. This bag makes my list because it will still look elegant when I load it up for work.
Roberto Cavalli Metallic Bag net-a-porter.com

5. Black doesn't mean somber when it is in shiny cracked leather...I wish for this Versace Coat!  I know I can wear for many years...and by the way, it's on sale now!
Versace Runway Cracked Leather Coat eluxury.com

6. There's modern elegance (and kryptonite) in this statement necklace by Laura J. Designs. (It's sterling silver - just kidding about the kryptonite.) Laura J. Designs Lovely Necklace - secondcitystore.com

7. Oh, and just two more things...rather, one more pair... I need these to leap tall buildings. Jean-Michel Cazabat Ankle Boot - shopbop.com

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 9: Emily Huggins' Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

There are so many things I could put on my Christmas list this year, but I’ll try to be particular and narrow it down to just a few…

Erin Fetherston Sequin Knit Hat in Silver $255 Rarechic

I don’t know about you, but the winter blahs start to set in right after the holiday
season comes to a close. This fantastic Erin Fetherston sequin cap will keep me smiling all the way through February. And the lining is wool, so I don’t have to sacrifice warmth for cuteness.

Barbara Bui Platform Dorsay Pump $645 Shopjake

These Barbara Bui platform pumps make me think of something a gorgeous 1940s pin-up girl would have worn. These are sure to get a lot of admiring looks. I want, I want, I want. Hope Santa thinks I’ve been good enough to deserve these this year! P.S. I’m a size 6!

Geren Ford Wool & Leather Jacket $880 Shobop

I don’t really NEED a new jacket, but most of my winter coats are super long, and I’d love to have a swingin’ cropped one. This Geren Ford wool and leather jacket is just the ticket. It’s retro AND modern. The leather adds a funky, innovative vibe.

Alicia Levine Wool Backless Sweater $278 Shopbop

I usually think cashmere sweaters are slightly boring. But this adorably girly Alicia Levine sweater is beautiful and unique. I won’t feel like a blimp in a sweater when I go out to dinner with friends, especially with the sexy little peek-a-boo back.

Alexis Bittar Deco Pendant $225 AlexisBittar

I’m feeling very into the 1920s vibe this season, and I really want a piece that screams Art Deco. I stumbled across this Cerulean Deco pendant by Alexis Bittar. Truly stunning.

Dittos Mangano High Waist Trouser $216 Shopbop

When I discovered that Dittos jeans were back after a lo-ong hiatus – try since the 1970s - I loved them even more.  I can’t wait to get my hands on a pair of the trouser jeans.

Twelfth St. Cynthia Vincent Metallic Lace Mini Dress $275 Shopbop

This is gorgeous mini dress is by Twelfth St. Cynthia Vincent. The color is a soft cream, and the metallic lace detail around the neckline is to die for. This is the perfect dress to ring in 2008!

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 7: Jenn Scott's Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

All I want for Christmas is You—and you and you and you...

Prada Dressy New Look Tote $1,795 Saks Fifth Avenue
This bag is hyper-functional. I can fit everything I need and more in there. It’s beautiful, refined, and would look amazing on my arm!

Burberry Trenchcoat $1,295 Saks Fifth Avenue
If you can’t beat them, join them! Everyone has one of these babies, and I want one too! This trench is the touch of sophistication to every cold weather ensemble.

C&C California Amy Cabled Tunic $245 Shopbop
I need someone to buy me sweaters! I spend all my money on shoes and bags!

MICHAEL Michael Kors 'Panama' Oxford $128.95 Nordstrom
Gray patent leather+oxfords=LOVE. 

M·A·C 'Heirlooms' 5 Basic Brushes $48 Nordstrom
I need new brushes. My makeup brushes have paid their dues. I need new and exciting ones!

Burberry London Eau de Parfum Spray $61/$78 Nordstrom
This smell is exciting and sophisticated. I wouldn’t mind having this in my stocking!

Wine Enthusiast Wine Master 2008 $40 Saks Fifth Avenue
This little baby would help me weed out all the mediocre bottles of wine. It’s compact, and I could toss it in my Prada bag! (See above.) 

 

 

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 6: Lauren Flemming's Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

My list is truly a dream list. This Christmas marks the end of a year of considerable growth for me, as well as the beginning of a year of inevitable change, something I’m not keen on. This Christmas, I am truly cherishing the gifts I already have. My list represents what I might wish for in a perfect world, one without student loans, malicious gossip or cancer. I have no hope of receiving any of these gifts this year, but we can always dream…

Brown leather boots by Miu Miu—all I want for Christmas are some fabulous boots, and these seem to fit the description. A large flirty bow ties right above the calf, these probably make your legs look divine. $995 Miu Miu Bow Boots

 
I’ve been eyeing this necklace for a few weeks, and although it didn’t quite make the cut for my Holiday Jewelry article, it can find a home on my wishlist. It’s one of my favorite colors for the season this year, and adds a lot of drama to your neckline. $715 Stephen Dweck Multi-Strand Hematite

 

I really need a new bag this season; this one’s perfect because it’s roomy without being too wide. I love the neutral color—I can wear it with just about everything. And the sleek cross-tie bow makes it structured but very feminine. $1,795 Valentino Side Bow Satchel

 

Burberry Brit is one of my favorite fragrances—everyone always says if I were a perfume that’s what I’d smell like. I’ve had it on my mind for a few years but haven’t gotten around to purchasing my signature scent so this year, that’s what I want. Besides, you can’t really go wrong with Burberry anything. $65-82 Burberry Brit

For parties, it’s all about the giant cocktail ring. I love these colorful bejeweled bands because you get the same effect as a cocktail ring without the giant rock. You can stack these for extra glam, and who wouldn’t want that? $515 Jill Alberts Gemstone Stacking Rings

I love the bootie trend this season. This Blahnik pair is perfect—sleek and versatile, exactly what I need in my life. $890 Manolo Blahnik Hair-Calf Ankle Boot

 

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 6: Jacqueline Zenn's Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

I’m a firm believer in the fact that holiday gifts should not be too practical. Indeed, often the very purpose of a gift is to give someone something that they would never purchase for themselves – whether it is something too extravagant, time-consuming, or just something that they would never think of on their own. Therefore, my wish list is composed of fabulous, splurge-worthy items. Hey, a girl can dream, right?

Black Max Studio Stiletto boots 
Every girl needs a pair of killer boots, and these are definitely made for walking. Featuring a four inch heel and trimmed with elegant covered buttons, they could go from day to night with ease and they are classic enough to remain stylish for seasons to come. $302.95 Zappos

Rag & Bone Tailcoat 
Combine a bold silhouette with menswear detailing and I’m sold. This would up the style quotient of basic jeans and a tee for sure, and it is from Rag & Bone, a label known for their exquisite tailoring, especially their coats. $545 Shopbop

 
TSE Cashmere Sweater Dress 
Nothing says luxury more than cashmere, and I’m sure that this TSE cashmere sweater-dress is incredibly warm and cozy, and besides, that deep shade of blue is just luscious. Also, unlike many other sweater-dresses, it is structured enough to flatter your figure (as opposed to hanging like a sack, as many cheaper options seem to do). $695 Saks Fifth Avenue

Jules Multi-Chain Necklace and Earrings
When it comes to jewelry, my motto is “go big or go home”. I’m a huge fan of dramatic statement pieces – the kind that you can throw on over a simple dress and look like a million stylish bucks. This layered chain necklace and earrings fit the bill perfectly. $320 Second City Store

Onyx Chess Set 
Last but not least, a girl can’t live on fashion alone – that is where this extravagant chess set comes in. Granted, you can still play the ultimate game of strategy with a cheap plastic set, but that wouldn’t be very chic now, would it? Channel Faye Dunaway and Steve McQueen in the original version of The Thomas Crowne Affair with this carved onyx set.

Second City Style's 12 Days Of Christmas (Shopping). Day 5: Editor-in-Chief Lauren Dimet Waters' Picks. Second City Style Fashion Blog

So many gifts and so little time! I have been tossing photos into a folder for weeks now and when it came time to narrow my picks...I just couldn't! The theme to these items are gifts I would treasure and wear/use to death! Maybe they cost a little more, but hey...I'm worth it. Aren't you? I hope my husband sees this for some gift inspiration, hint, hint.

What Comes Around Goes Around Celeste Dress $698 Shopbop
I need a new dress for the myriad of parties I plan to attend, if not in my mind. The perfect little frock for New Years and for the flapper in us all.

Christian Louboutin Lady Gres 37942 Pumps $865 Saks Fifth Avenue
Hello lover! If I were not afraid I would break my neck in these bad boys I would wear them everywhere! Even the shower.

Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Quilted Croco Bag $1,395 Yves Saint Laurent
I have been *hearting* this bag since I first laid eyes on it many moons ago. It has all the necessary elements...patent, check...croco print, check. Oh and it tucks nicely under my your arm. I must have it.

Jules 11-Strand Bracelet $160 Second City Store
For some reason, I have a need for more yellow gold in my life. This bracelet is bold, yet elegant. Perfect for the office or a night on the town. The price is right too. Especially with a 20% discount! (Use the code 'Holiday07' at checkout)

Vanessa Bruno Hooded Cape-Coat $886 Net-a-Porter
You don't see it? This cape-coat has my name written all over it. In fact, I can already think of 100 ways to wear it.

Cartier Roadster Steel Automatic Mens Watch $4,340 Jomashop
Yes, I would like the man's watch. The bigger the better when it comes to Cartier watches if you ask me. Keeping it real.

Alessandro Dell'Acqua Suede Bondage Stiletto with Mosaic Glass Heel $670 Shopbop
These shoes are hot, hot, hot. Enough said.

Melanie Nicole Marauder Dress $175 Second City Store
Besides the price, the best part about this dress is that you can also wear it as a top. I've tried it on, it rocks. It also comes in other colors, so I can buy a few while I'm at it.

Kindle: Wireless Reading Device $399 Amazon
OK so it looks like a calculator relic from the 70's, but this iPod (of sorts) for books is rather ingenious. The electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper. There are currently 90,000 books available, including 100 of 112 current New York Times® Best Sellers. It weighs only 10.3 ounces and holds over 200 titles.Too bad they are selling out like crazy!

Tory Burch Uma Boots $495 Tory Burch
I was hoping I was over the whole Tory Burch shoe thing, but something about these boots speak to me. Could it be the gold hardware? Now that I live in NYC I am obsessed with flats (wonder why?).