Fashionable Food Accessories for the Working Woman
December 7, 2009 by Laney Knapp
Filed under Eco-Friendly, Kids, Men, Teenagers, Under $25, Women

As much as I love getting whimsical gifts and pretty trinkets, my true favorites are the most practical. A practical gift doesn’t have to be “un-fun” or boring – I’m not talking a set of spatulas or monogrammed hand towels. There’s a huge middle ground, where practicality meets fun; no matter who you’re shopping for, you find items they need AND want!
One of my favorite gifts this season is a stylish coffee mug! Whether you’re shopping for a business woman, a student, a mom with errands to run – or really, just anyone who leaves the house – a coffee mug is a gift that will be used over and over again. And each time your lucky lady pours in her favorite blend, she’ll think of you’re fabulous gift giving sensibility!
Aladdin is a brand that immediately caught my eye due to their huge range of products and the gorgeous graphics. I was sent some fab products to review, each and every one of which is a perfect gift for the ladies on your list! Let’s check out some of my faves.

“Consider this mug your blank canvas. It can display just about anything you can dream up– original artwork, photos, even your beloved sticker collection.”
What a genius idea! If you’ve got a doodler on your hands, this is a great gift for them. I think that teen girls will like this mug a lot as well; they’re always writing each other notes and writing on end of the year tees & yearbooks is a big deal. So how about giving them a DIY mug that their friends can design for them (probably during a boring math class)?

16oz Hybrid Stainless Steel Travel Mug, $10
“A classic everyday item, this mug is made with a mix of stainless steel and plastic so you can enjoy durability without sacrificing style.”
This is a totally chic option for moms, aunts, and anyone else who likes a little pop but not a lot of flair. Totally streamlined, this mug is perfect for travel and the wide handle will make grabbing your mug while navigating your morning routine perfectly simple! The top trend purple makes this a total winner, but there are also gorgeous shades of blue and grey available.


12oz Artist Series Insulated Mugs, $20
“The worlds of art and coffee collide in the new Aladdin Artist Series that puts art in your hands! This first-edition collection features the orginal artwork of six different artists.”
These fun insulated mugs immediately made me think of my graphic design major friends! They’re such a great update from the usual, boring silver/grey mugs. These are really fun for kids that like to take hot chocolate with them in the morning, or ones that go camping (even if it’s just in the backyard).

20oz Artist Series Insulated Art Bowl, $20
“Spend your lunch hour savoring beauty with the new Aladdin Artist Series that puts art in your hands. This first-edition collection features the orginal artwork of six different artists.”
Another great graphic piece! Mini fashionistas can take their lunches, while big girls will be happy to do the same. I love the color coordination between the bowl, lid, and graphic design. Last night’s leftover’s are suddenly much more appealing in one of these beauties, and so are those healthy soups and salads that weren’t much fun to eat before. Oh and did I mention that these bowls remain cool to the touch, but are microwave safe? Score!

10oz Recycled & Recyclable Snack Container, $7
“Do your part for the planet (and your wallet) with this fun recycled snack container. Make your own munchies (or buy in bulk) and pack it all to go so you can snack wherever, whenever.”
Now that’s affordable! This is one piece I’m definitely keeping for myself; it fits perfectly into my purse or laptop bag. I’ve been filling mine with trail mix, dried fruit, or nuts for healthy snacking. The vending machines on campus are so much less tempting when I know I’ve got a delicious option with my already – plus it’s a lot cheaper to bring snacks from home!

24oz Clean & Clever Water Bottle, $12
“Don’t be fooled by its good looks. This water bottle is good for you, too! It’s made with Bisphenol-A free Eastman Tritan copolyester plastic, which is durable, crystal clear and dishwasher safe.”
This is the same bottle pictured at the very top; it’s my favorite piece! I buy water in 3L jugs, which aren’t exactly portable. However, they’re much cheaper and more eco-friendly than buying 8oz bottles in bulk. I have a stash of water bottles, but a lot of them get “gross,” and don’t seem to get clean enough when I wash them. The Clean & Clever Water Bottle is a real gem; it’s big and see through, so I can remember if I’m drinking water or ice tea and not top off with the wrong beverage. It also fits perfectly into my purse or laptop bag, even when I’ve got the Recycled Snack Container in there as well.
For more Aladdin products, check out their website. There’s are four main sections: Drink It Hot, Drink It Cold, Do Lunch, and Kiddos. Each are chock full of products you are your loved ones will use all year long!
