Do you want to add a bit of amore in your relationship? Just think that every month you both could receive a sexy pair of intimates, model them for each other and  enjoy the rest of the evening together, nudge, nudge, wink, wink.

Here are some Intimates of the Month Club to surely inspire romance in your relationship…

FOR HER
	Panty by Post – Although this is a Canadian company, it actually started in Paris, which explains the French flair in their lingerie offering. Their goal is bring back nostalgia of receiving something pretty, sexy and completely feminine in the mail every month. Each panty comes beautifully packaged with a personal message from the sender. Choose from hipster, thong, bikini and vintage or a mix of all. Now this is a way to say Je t’aime!  Check out the Panty by Post website. Do you know anyone one soon to be married? They also have a special club for the bride and groom. What a way to start off a marriage!
	Panty Fairy – Another panty-of-the-month club for those who love surprises. The recipient never knows what will be in those monthly packages until they arrive. One month they could be lacy French knickers and the next, a blue satin thong. Choose between a 6 month and 12 month subscription on the Panty Fairy website.
	Chocolates Fantasies - A panty of the month club that will surely spice things up. Each monthly gift (if it is a holiday month the package will have a holiday theme to it) will include a pair of panties, chocolates, edible undies, chocolate body sauce or rose and a personalized note.  You’re thus guaranteed at least one amorous night a month. Ooh la la. They also offer a sexy bra & panty set monthly club. Check out their website here.
	In the Mood Intimates - This is a panty of the month club “on a budget”. Your loved one can still show they love you with this three month panty club, with brand names like Chantelle, Hanky Panky, and Panache, to name a few. Choose from bikini/boyshort or thong/g-string and the company will look after the rest, including doing a holiday theme on the appropriate months. Check out their reduced priced clubs here.
FOR HIM
	Panty by Post for Men – Men do not need to feel left out. We ladies can also send the man in our life a thoughtful, beautifully packaged gift, complete with a romantic note. Every month, he will get a pair of boxer briefs that are comfortable, soft, sexy and good for the planet (made of natural fibers). Just think, each month you can have a private fashion show for each other. Comme c’est romantique! Shop at Panty by Post, the Men section.
	ChocolateFantasies – This spicy site also has a Guy’s Club with treats. Every month he can expect a sexy pair of underwear, chocolates, edible undies, chocolate sauce or rose and more, all in a beautifully wrapped package with a personalized note. Talk about getting him in the mood! Shop here.

Yes, we know. You’re quite welcome.

Is there better, thoroughly classic way of showing your undying love than with a dozen roses? Unfortunately, they last such a short time that they quickly start looking like your ‘dying’ love. Well, here’s a set of dozen roses that will not only live forever but that can also be worn as a LOVEly fashion statement! (OK, we’ll stop with the lovies now).

This String of Roses Silk Scarf is made with 100% natural silk that is weaved on antique looms to weave the richest quality fabric possible. All scarves are handmade and hand-dyed in Vietnam by skilled artisans who use ancient methods to produce the natural silk fibers. Each rose is individually crafted, so no two are exactly alike. The scarves are a work of art that are rich in color and soft to the touch.

Forget the long stem roses that will die in a week. Imagine that each time the scarf embraces her, she will think of the person who gave it to her (OK, we’re really done now).

This gorgeous scarf can be purchased here for $34.99. Contact Lua for a list of retailers near you.

Today, Gina still gets inspired by found vintage and antique silver. Her canvass for this particular medium is jewelry. She re-purposes vintage silver into one-of-a- kind pieces. Take her silver tray pieces. Each silver tray has its own special characteristics that ‘speak’ and help determine whether the final piece will be a pendant, earrings or beautiful cuff. Her favorite trays include those that were once inscribed as a trophy or award. Imagine wearing ‘Best Horsemanship’ or ‘Thoroughbred’ on your wrist!

Gina also designs custom jewelry pieces out of your heirloom treasures. Imagine your great grandfather’s dog tags from WWI and your grandmother’s and mother’s bracelets redesigned into one-of-a-kind keepsake necklaces…

Whatever the occasion (bridal, anniversary, Valentine’s day, milestone birthday…), meaningful heirloom-worthy pieces of jewelry would certainly speak volumes about that sentiment the gift-giver is so thoughtfully looking to express.

Contact Gina at Lizzy B to buy or to discuss custom orders. Follow her on Facebook to see her latest designs.

So here’s a fun solution for the woman short on time but high on style: Cakestyle, a “virtual” personal shopping service.

Here’s how it works: once you’ve signed up, A Cakestylist will contact you to conduct a style interview to assess size, personal style and wardrobe needs. The stylist will then put together about five to six looks, including accessories (and some fab vintage jewelry finds) which are then demonstrated in a personalized video as the stylist walks through each look shown on the mannequin (here’s an example). Cakestyle brands include DVF, Vince, Eileen Fisher and Elie Tahari… Each box sent to the client contains about $2500 to $3000 worth of outfits and accessories, many of them being mix-and-match pieces to exponentially multiply the choice of outfits. Clients only keep what they love and return the rest (at no cost) with the conveniently included shipping label and packing tape.

Personally, I much prefer shopping from the comfort of my home. High style, low frustration.

Beatrice Holiday has the cutest bike accessories for the biking fashionista and the biking commuter.

We love the matching seat covers and handlebar bikebags that will have you truly be stylin’ as you will be wheelin’. The unique handlebar bag also converts into a beautiful and functional shoulder bag, to keep all your valuables safe, on and off the bike. All are made with vintage upholstery fabrics that suits the look of a beach cruiser, but would also fit on the handlebar of a Baby Stroller, making this also a great gift for new moms.

Beatrice Holiday also designs a stylish line of jewelry made out of recycled bike inner tubes. These hip accessories are not only very eye-catching but they also bring the meaning of Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle to a whole new level.

Are you going to a party and know that the host/hostess is also a cyclist? Why not hang one of Beatrice Holiday Bike Chain Star Ornament on a bottle of wine. The ornament hangs from a recycled bike inner tube string and would definitely add some flair to any tree.

Everything is made right here in the USA and is Eco and Animal Friendly. Use code HOLIDAYBEA at checkout for 15% off.

Our theme for this Gift Guide covers both sides of the coin: the party side and the downtime side. Clearly this girl wants to have fun! This has been a tumultuous year filled economic stress, insecurities and the constant calling of all the everyday responsibilities that she needs to deal with. Give her gifts that promise that she will be wined and dined and spoiled, because let’s face it, she deserves it. Secondly, give her the gifts that will be promising her some alone time (what girl does not need that…), so she can rejuvenate for the upcoming year.

	Far and Away Necklace – What women does not like a little bling and these teardrops of turquoise, chalcedony and green amethyst would look lovely on any woman’s neck. Simple. Sophisticated. Yet, stunning. Buy from Arhaus Jewels. $185.00
	Bamboo Jammers – These pj’s (or nighties) and matching headband are made from sustainable natural bamboo fabric making them the softest and breathable pj’s ever, allowing for the most comfortable sleep. The style is also so flattering you may just want to wear them throughout the day. Comes in five styles. Check out their line at This is J. $72.00 – $125.00
	The Travel Jewelry Case – This is the ultimate jewelry case. The look is chic but practical. The case doubles as a tray with snap-on individual pages that hold each necklace in place – you know, so those darn chains don’t get all tangled up! The case also features ring holders and earring holders. Buy directly from Clos-ette Too. $52.00 (Add a little bling or airline tickets and this will be an complete gift!)
	Intimate Chanel Book – Written by Isabell Fiemeyer, this is an intimate and personal look into the life and work of legendary designer Coco Chanel. Beautifully written with gorgeous photos by famed photographer Francis Hammond. Buy for Amazon for about $40.00.
	Rose Scarf – Any woman would feel special wearing this red hand-knit scarf. When rolled up the scarf turns into a beautiful rose. Each piece is individually custom-made. Order from Molla Space. $180.00
	Lumen Oil Candle Shadow Projector – This modern oil candle casts a dreamy shadow from these tiny stainless steel trees. Comes with two containers of clean burning liquid wax. Choose from five styles from UncommonGoods. $48.00
	Cashmere Throw – There is nothing like cozying up on the couch with a soft, warm 100% cashmere throw. For an extra touch, monogram her initials so everyone knows that that spot is reserved just for her. Buy from Red Envelope. $249.95
	Posh Pink Citron Spa – The ultimate in spa luxury which includes two Voluspa candles, shea butter bar soap, body mist, lavender eye pillow and old fashion lollipops to add a touch of play. The pink citron, tart cassis and subtle rose scented products all come in a beautiful hand crafted crate. Buy from Olive and Cocoa. $138.00
	Lemon Park Statement Necklace – Every woman needs a statement necklace and this piece would definitely be it! Each piece, made in Canada, is unique and handmade using sculpted wire and semi-precious stones. Stunning! Buy from Lemon Park. $325
	Living Proof Hair Products – We love this product! It makes our hair healthy looking, full of volume and soft too. And if you buy the travel size kit it gives a subtle hint that there maybe a weekend escape in the near future. Buy directly from Living Proof. $25.00
	Phoebe Vintage Buckle Bracelet – My Mother’s Buttons is one of our favorite jewelry designers. Linda Wright uses vintage buttons, buckles and horse bridle rosettes to make unique one of a kind heirloom pieces. This bracelet can easily be worn with a favorite pair of jeans or cocktail dress. Buy from Accessory Artists. $195.00
	Leather Clutch – This Dareen Hakim elegant clutch is the perfect bag for an evening out or for her to slip in her briefcase. Beautifully finished with an hand-engraved plaque, each bag is unique and original. Add a Restaurant.com gift certificate for a romantic dinner out. Quelle surprise! Buy from Boticca. $295
	Waxing Poetic Bracelet – A bracelet that tells a story. This bracelet can be worn alone or add as many charms as you like with their simple charm clips. Buy from Waxing Poetic. $187.00

Need even more inspiration? Check our previous guides: Holiday Gift Guide For Her and  Jewelry Gift Guide.

FYI, the Desert Boot is now 62 years young. This enduring style with the crepe sole has many fans. My sister and I were among some of the early fans. I remember us both sporting a pair of the “originals” (but we didn’t need to call them that back then…) as little girls and feeling very cool in a tomboyish and powerful sort of way.

And now is the time to revisit the timeless design. Here are some adaptations that I have found for (serious) consideration:

	Clarks Desert Boot – An homage to the Original thing: “An international cult classic, the iconic lace-up boot by Clarks Originals® was inspired by the crepe-soled boots worn by British officers in World War II.” These are available at Clarksusa.com for $99.99 but you’ll be interested to know that the UK site also has a lace, a knit-adorned and a pink flannel versions of this original.
	Clarks Water Row Boot – Definitely inspired by the Original Desert Boot, this Water Row boot may just prove to have as much classic endurance. And a dressier profile with a manageable heel. Like. Buy at Clarkusa.com for $124.99.
	Owen Boot by Bettye Muller – This is probably the more refined boot of the lot. The price supports that statement! You can tell the quality of construction. Justify by stating that this is a classic, after all… Available on Piperlime.com for $295.
	Boden Desert Wedge Boot – I like the streamlined silhouette of these boots as well as the the white stitching which adds a more casual look. Find them on BodenUSA.com for $194.
	Flory Wedge Boot by Enzo Angiolini – This bootie comes in a great autumn grey suede with a gum wedge sole. I love the curvy silhouette too. I found these at Macys for $139.00.
	Eddie Bauer Ankle Boot – Hey! Almost anyone can manage this heel. Still enough height to add some style while allowing for more perilous trekking. If you really need to. Buy at Eddie Bauer for $99.95.
	Luxury Rebel Paula Pump – Ok, so these are more Wallabee-like than desert boot-ish, but I like how this shoe’s matronly styling winks at its origins. The contrast of the suede and smooth leather, the pinking around the seams and the heel make this a definite contemporary. Buy at Endless.com for $150.
	Talbots Crepe-Sole Bootie – Is this bootie a little bit sexy-librairianish? Perhaps that’s why I like it. Plus, it’s available in 6 fall-favorite colors. Buy at Talbots for $149.
	Pura boot by DV Dolce Vita – The hidden wedge heel and platform give this bootie a very au courrant feel. Available on Piperlime for $89.00.
	Princeton Boot by Sperry Topsider – Given the company that makes this boot, it has a more, hummm, shall we say, utilitarian look? But in a really cute way. Still of the Desert Boot essence, this one has nautical reference with the eyelets and the wet/dry traction sole. Buy at Sperry Topsider for $140.

Which one is your pick? I’ll let you know when I decide on mine.

What makes a great walking shoe? It needs to:

• provide good shock absorption for hitting the – charming cobbled? – pavement
• have a slight heel to allow smooth heel-to-toe roll
• be lightweight. You don’t need to be carrying extra weight around on your feet nor in your suitcase.
• have a design that provides structure and support so that your foot doesn’t have to fight and constantly readjust to stay on the footbed. Flipflops be gone.
• have a good fit so that there is no pinching or sliding.

As I am soon going back to my native city of Montreal – a walking city, I went searching for a comfortable shoe that still offered plenty of style. Besides that, my other requirements were that the shoe could be worn equally well with a skirt or pants and be of a neutral, go-with-everything color. I thought that I’d mention some of the shoes and brands that met my demands for this particular season:

	Camper – I love this Spanish brand and own a couple pairs of Campers with cushy rubber soles that give a bounce to every step. This fun sandal has a padded footbed and a manageable “net” heel height of only one inch. Camper is based in Barcelona. The company imparts a new lifestyle based on freedom, comfort and creativity. Buy at Endless.com in red or black.
	Arche – A French company that designs shoes to be worn for hours and hours. Doesn’t this pair look so French? I own a pair of Arche sandals and sing their praises every single time I slip them on. They are light as air, with 100% natural Latex cushioning for continuous shock absorption. These are on the more expensive side, but the quality is definitely there. Buy at Zappos.
	Sofft – The gladiator styling of this sandal is very “au courant” and the bronze color makes it very passe-partout (I think I’m ready to pick up my French again!). Sofft shoes are handmade with premium materials and patented technology that delivers comfort and style. Buy this Ravenna model Zappos here but check out the Ravia model too.
	Crocs – I used to think that Crocs were the ugliest thing, but I may find myself wearing a pair before too long… If they look like these, I’d be happy to. Cuteness + comfort is a great formula! But at Crocs or at Endless.com.
	Geox is known as the “breathing shoe”, a shoe construction technique which is achieved with a membrane that absorbs sweat from the insole and expels it as water vapor through micro-holes in the outsole. Great for those who prefer to wear a closed shoe, especially in the form of this elegant skimmer. Buy at Zappos.
	Pikolinos -  This brand has its own personality. Pikolinos shoes are handcrafted with hand sewn natural leather that is both soft and durable to create a comfortable shoe. The open bootie style would work great with maxi length skirts and with pants or denims. I love this Paris model in the brown or the blue. But take a look at this wedge sandal too.
	Born – This brand is well known for the comfort and hand-sewn construction of its shoes. Finest quality materials, soft supple leathers and shock-absorbing foam ensure the foot is wrapped in comfort. Great go-with-everything sandal. Buy at OnlineShoes.com.
	Me Too – I’ve mentioned this brand before and need to reiterate how good these shoes have been to me, allowing to complete many miles in Europe and on the hard concrete trade shoe floors. Buy at Endless.com.

So, if you’re going to be a seriously elegant tourist, this all this means that you will leave the flips flops at for the beach and the running shoes at the gym. Oui?

Rent It!

Jewelry rental – Now any bride can wear a $75,000 necklace when she makes her grand entrance at her wedding. Check out the Adorn.com of earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Brides simply need to enter the date of the event, pick the jewelry pieces and see if the desired pieces are available. Adorn will ship the chosen jewelry via UPS  two days before it is needed. It is then returned on the first business day following the event in the pre-addressed and pre-paid package. Although they cater to the Bride-to-be Adorn.com offers anyone dripping diamonds for a momentous day.

Bridesmaid Dress – How many bridesmaid dresses do you have and have never worn again (even though everybody says you will)? Rent the Runway has solved this problem with bridesmaid dresses that can be rented. They have a great selection of color, styles, and fabrics with prices between $50 – $100 for a four day rental. Plus they send a second size for free (just in case). Return with the prepaid postage.

It’s All in the Details

	Gifts for the Bridesmaids and Ushers – How does one properly thank the friends that will stand by them and witness the Big Day? Beau-coup has a variety of great gifts for the bridesmaids and ushers that will make them feel special and appreciated.
	BooBooBling - We have written about BooBooBling before. Accidents happen so you might as well make the bandage a beautiful accessory! Buy directly from BooBooBling.
	Wedding Day Emergency Kit – Have the day go without a hitch with My Mojuba ultimate wedding day survival kit for both the bride and the groom. Comes in a stylish white chic bag that unfolds into a classic hanging toilette case for her and a black stylish messenger bag for him. Go to MyMojuba.com to order.
	Mini Emergency Kits – It has all the 20 must-haves for both the bride and groom – even extra wedding bands – because you never know. Buy from Ms. and Mrs.  and don’t forget the bridesmaids and mothers-in-laws-to-be may need one of their own.
	Mr and Mrs Luggage Tags – Send them off on their honeymoon with these luggage tags that will ensure that they get the right amount of attention deserved by newlyweds. Buy from Amazon.

Gift Registries for the Newlyweds

To help the newlyweds start their life together, most couples start a registry so that their guests will know what their needs are. These days, that list mostly does not include toasters…

	I DO Foundation - Guests can donate directly to the couple’s chosen charitable cause. Charities are grouped into six focus areas including health, environment, social justice, community development, education and families. Help make their day special by changing someone else’s. Go to I DO Foundation.
	Hatch My House – A gift registry that allows guests to help put away money towards the down payment of the couple’s first home. Check out Hatch My House.
	Deposit a Gift and WeddingWire –  Deposit a Gift and Wedding Wire have joined forces to make a one-stop wedding site. The Deposit a Gift allows guests to contribute to anything that the couple has requested in one spot; whether it is for something for the honeymoon, home or charitable the couple can make their wishes known in one centralized location. WeddingWire is an online wedding planner that tracks spending, organizes the details and has the ability to search for local vendors for the big day. Plus, it allows guests to share in the planning by requesting songs for the wedding playlist, searching for hotel and flights and, of course, view and have access to all of the registries.

Have any other great wedding planning resources that you would like to share? Let us know and we’ll post them.