Splurge vs. Save

It's no secret that Katie and I are fans of the LL Bean "duck boot".They were on my 2010 Christmas Wish List  and have been in my closet ever since!

They are cute, practical and affordable at $79. But, if they still aren't in your budget, these Target knock-offs are only $32.99.

The real thing is worth every penny, but if you just can't swing it, these are a good option!

Gift Guide- The Sartorial Man

This week's gift guide is for all the sartorial men in your life (sar·to·ri·al  /särˈtôrēəl/Adjective, Of or relating to tailoring, clothes, or style of dress: "sartorial elegance"). So for the discerning man in your life, here are the perfect gifts.

Tanned Leather iPad case from Orvis $159

More & Giles McMillan Tie Case $185

The New Basic Bon Journey $86

Monogrammed Dopp Kit $50

Collared Greens Damsel Belt $78

Jack Spade socks $28

LL Bean Boots $89

I know any of these gifts would be well liked by my +1! 

Splurge vs. Save

Last week I saw a woman wearing these adorable Hunter flats! They are super cute, but unless you live in Portland like I do, you might not wear them enough to justify the $115.

LL Bean offers an affordable alternative for only $70!

So, what do you think, splurge or save?

Bridesmaid Gift Guide

As you know, I'm getting married in August. I'm fortunate to have a wonderful group of friends that are going to stand up with me on the big day. And, of course, I need to get them a little something to show my appreciation. With wedding season on the way, I thought a bridesmaid gift guide would be helpful to all of you brides out there or anyone looking for something special for their girl friends.

Everyone needs a good tote bag, whether it's for the gym or the beach. A monogrammed L.L. Bean Boat and Tote is cute and useful. Definitely a contender for my own wedding party. I've got the extra-large one and use it all the time for weekend trips!

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag

I love my gold monogram necklace, and to give my favorite friends their own version would be such a treat. The Moon and Lola Acrylic Monogram necklaces come in a variety of fonts and colors, meaning you can really personalize it. They range in price from $58 - $78 depending on the size.

Moon and Lola Acrylic Monogram Necklace

If you are having a beach wedding, or your girls love the water, the Dot Beach Towel from Land's End will definitely make a splash. You could even put it inside the tote bag! It comes in navy, yellow, green, and pink!

Land's End Dot Beach Towel

It's no secret that the Kate Spade Gumdrop earrings are a favorite of mine. What better way to show your friends you care than with one of your favorite accessories! And they come in an assortment of colors, so you could get them all the same ones to wear on the big day, or pick their favorite color.

Kate Spade Gumdrop Studs

Who doesn't love a new cosmetic bag?! These monogrammed hand-blocked cosmetic bags from West Elm would definitely come in handy down the line...unlike the bridesmaid dress.

West Elm Hand-Blocked Cosmetic Bags

If you're getting married in a major city, or all your bridesmaids live in big cities, check out these awesome prints from a Portland, Oregon artist. A 11 x 14 print is $30. Certainly a gift your friends will never forget.

11 x 14 Print from AlbieDesigns

If you haven't heard of Birchbox, you've been missing out! Each month for $10 you receive a box of luxurious beauty samples. Depending on your budget, you can send the gift to your girls after the wedding and they'll be remembering how much fun you had for months to come!

Birchbox

These are just a few of many options out there. Send us a note if you need ideas! Regan and I are always up for a challenge.

XOXO

Katie

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Bean Boatnecks

Founded in 1912 by its namesake, avid hunter and fisherman Leon Leonwood Bean in Greenwood, Maine, L.L. Bean has come a long way in the last 99 years. With spring on the way, these boatnecks are the perfect transition piece from spring to summer, and even into fall, with the right accessories. They are certainly a far cry from the Bean Boot (which is still fashionable in its own right)!

Birch Point Boatneck Pullover, Print

Birch Point Boatneck Pullover

Cardigan Wednesday

L.L. Bean Signature Collection Daysail Striped Cardigan $71.20

Let's Be Practical

While I have a habit of posting beautiful (and expensive) things on my blog, and I frequently add them to my so called "Christmas List", the reality is that many of those things don't fit into the reality of my every day life.

Here are a few of the real items on my Christmas list and ones that might actually be under the tree tomorrow morning.

LL Bean Duck Boots $64

Bed Head PJs $132

MZ Wallace Kate $390

Minnetonka Cally Slipper $34.95

Cardi Wednesday

This adorable LL Bean Cardigan Jacket comes in green and navy and would look so cute with white jeans and fun sandals. Now the hard part, the navy or green, or both?

Love Them, Want Them, Need Them

LL Bean Coastal Rain Skimmers $69