“Mike Natenshon started Marine Layer because he couldn’t find new t-shirts that fit and felt like his precious few favorites and his girlfriend was going to dump him if he kept wearing the same 5 tees from college.  It took about a year of trial and error and a heap of credit card debt to get the first shirt made, but it was a beauty.”

You can read about how Marine Layer sustainably manufactures their tees in the US here.

So what’s so special about Marine Layer?  Well for one, they’ve thrown normal sizing guidelines out the window and introduced a whole new method.  Simply use their “Fit Finder” to decide if you’re a Smedium, Medium, Marge, Large, Larger or Extra-Large.

Next, it’s all about the feel.  I received a tee from Marine Layer check out and hands down, it’s the softest tee ever.  Crazy, comfortably, you’ll want to live in these tees soft.  I was planning on giving it to my boyfriend, but now I’m tempted to claim it as my own.  If you want to check it out yourself before committing to a tee, Marine Layer will send you a free sun glass cloth made of their super-soft cotton for free.

If you read the manufacturing info above, you’ll also know how much effort goes into the making of these tees.  It’s evident that the tees are well made when you actually check on out; these won’t fall apart like the rest of the tees in your closet.

So to sum up:  perfect fit, super soft, high quality.  Oh and did I mention that Marine Layers offers free shipping AND free returns – on all orders?  So ordering is essentially risk free, as you’ll be refunded whatever you paid.  Perfect, right?

I’m not a big fan of logos, so I prefer the Blank tees.  The shirt I received is the Super Blank T ($29) in Shamrock Shake Green (pictured above).  The color is gorgeous, but if green’s not your thing, there are several other shades available.  All are rich and non-intrusive, so they’ll blend easily into your guy’s wardrobe – no worries!

This holiday season, get your guy something he’ll really love – a super soft, super stylish tee from Marine Layer!

Still not sure what to get for that sporty brother, father, or boyfriend?  We feel your pain!  Men can be such a challenge to shop for, so it’s best to stick to the basics.

For guys who are big into exercise, sports, and the great outdoors, the gift solution can be really simple!  Think about what they need:  gear and accessories.  Since actual sporting gear can be expensive – and something to stay away from unless you really know what your guy wants, I suggest sticking to those accessories!

Icebreaker is a company that specializes in outdoor and travel related items.

“Icebreaker, like many great things, started by accident.  In 1994, an American girlfriend introduced me to a merino wool farmer she had stayed with as she backpacked around New Zealand.  Brian Brakenridge lived on an isolated island in Marlborough with his family and 8,000 sheep. He had developed some prototype thermal underwear made from 100% pure New Zealand merino wool.  He threw me a piece of this extraordinary fabric across the lunch table. It felt soft and sensual, looked lustrous and was totally natural.  It was nothing like the wool I had grown up with, which was heavy and scratchy. And you could throw this stuff in the washing machine.   My first thought was that maybe I could sell this to the Americans, and pay for a ticket to the US to see my backpacking beau. Hey, I was 24.  But as I wore this fine wool t-shirt, it proved to me – and to the others we showed it to – how well merino wool performed in the outdoors, and how wonderful it felt. I was so enthusiastic about this discovery that I never saw my American girlfriend again – she was jilted by sheep.”

Socks are a great gift.  They’re going to get a lot of use, and every guy could use socks – even though they think the ten pairs with huge holes in them currently hanging out in their sock drawer are fine. Having the right socks for sporting activities is super important; I once went cross country skiing with thin socks on and wound up with blisters the size of half dollars.

Icebreaker has four main categories of socks:  Alpine, Outdoor, GT, and Everyday.

Icebreaker sent me a pair of socks for review and while I’m passing them on to a lucky guy this Christmas, I did spend some time checking them out.  The pattern is definitely one that will appeal to guys, as it’s streamlined in bold, basic colors.  The material is durable and will protect feet, while keeping them warm and comfortable.  They’re also breathable and lightweight so no worries about bulk or overheating.  And none of those blisters!

If your guy already has a big selection of quality socks, consider some other basic necessities – hats, scarves, and gloves!

I love the Icebreaker Powder Hat ($41.99), which is available in four colors.  I received the Ink/Reef/Thunder combo (pictured above) and think the colors are gorgeous!  This beauty’s going to my step brother, who’s big into snowboarding and other winter sports.  He’s always tricky to shop for, but I know he’ll be a big fan of this sleek, stylish hat.  The non-itchy material and added length for ear coverage are going to keep him warm and comfortable all year long!

Icebreaker doesn’t just cater to men; there’s a wide selection of clothing and accessories for woman as well.

“Our Mission and Vision

Since 1989, Women’s Bean Project has been dedicated to helping women break the cycle of poverty and unemployment.

Our Mission: To change women’s lives by providing stepping stones to self-sufficiency through social enterprise.

Our Vision: Women’s Bean Project strives to break the cycle of chronic unemployment and poverty by helping women discover their talents and develop skills by offering job readiness training opportunities.

With this stepping stone toward success, the women will be able to support themselves and their families, and create stronger role models for future generations.

Our History

Jossy Eyre founded the Women’s Bean Project in 1989 as a result of her volunteer work at a day shelter for homeless women. Eyre saw that while the shelter kept women safe, if could not help them make lasting changes in their lives. Eyre bought $500 worth of beans and put two homeless women to work – the first step in building the social enterprise we are today. Our training opportunities have expanded dramatically over the years, and annual operating budget has grown from $6,100 to over $1.5 million.

In 1993, King Soopers became the first grocery store to carry our products.

In 1995, we purchased former Fire Station #10 from the City and County of Denver, and moved to our new home the following year, giving us permanent roots at 3201 Curtis Street.

Today our product offerings have expanded to salsa mixes, spice rubs, coffee beans, and jelly beans in addition to our soups and chili, along with gift baskets, baking mixes and much more.”

Treat Your Sweetheart Bundle ($19.25) contains:  Jelly Beans, Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, Brownie Mix.

Soup Lover’s Bundle ($35) contains:  Toni’s 10 Bean, Marian’s Black Bean, Sarah’s Spicy Split Pea, Old Fashion Chili, Firehouse #10 Chili, Certified Organic 6 Bean.

2 Chili & Cornbread Bundle ($17.25) contains:  Firehouse #10 Chili, Old Fashioned Chili, Golden Cornbread Chili.

Soup & Spice Rub Bundle ($16.50) contains:  Toni’s 10 Bean Soup, Marian’s Black Bean Soup, Uncle Bob’s BBQ Rub, Malaysian Spice Rub.

I had the opportunity to try some delicious products from the Women’s Bean Project earlier this year.  I’m particularly fond of the cornbread; it’s perfect!  I think I ate an entire pan myself…  Another big hit was the iced tea; I’m partial to the Mango Peach flavor.  I haven’t tried the dip mixes, but I think they’re another great gift idea – last year I paired dip mix with an inexpensive whisk or spatula and gave the sets!  Great for hostesses, teachers, parents…  Anyone who likes delicious food, really!

]]> http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/womens-bean-project-gifts-that-give-back/feed/ 0 http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/pinder-laptop-accessories-for-geeky-friends/ http://www.fashionableholiday.com/2009/12/09/pinder-laptop-accessories-for-geeky-friends/#comments Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00:15 +0000 Laney Knapp http://fashionableholiday.com/?p=212

When you’ve got a bunch of technology addicted friends like I do, it can be difficult to find gifts for them!  True geeks seem to already have amassed all the latest and greatest technology.  My little brother is a computer addict and already has the special keyboard, headset, gamer mouse – you name it, he has it.  So what’s left?

Surprisingly, he doesn’t have a laptop bag.  Something so simple, and yet it’s missing!  I find this to be the case with a lot of my tech friends; they’ve got high end equipment but they’re tossing into their backpacks or tucking it under their arms, rather than storing it safely.

When I got a new laptop in the fall, the first thing I did was start looking for a bag for it!  Probably because I’m so addicted to purses…  Pinder was kind enough to send me their GiddyUp bag (pictured above) in Black & Lime.

Best.Bag.Ever.  It’s so functional and convenient that I often toss a few vital items into this bag and skip bringing my purse altogether.  A bag that’s replaced my purse?  Seriously, you know it’s got to be good.

“Are you looking for a laptop bag that has room for files/folders, lightweight, protective, water repellent and doesn’t look like a traditional laptop bag? Then the new GiddyUp laptop tote is ready to be your new best friend. With a durable ballistic nylon exterior and 100% cruelty-free faux leather trim, the GiddyUp will keep you and your laptop looking snazzy. It offers one zip compartment to carry your laptop and another compartment to carry all that other stuff like your power supply, mouse, folders, files and magazines.”

The GiddyUp comfortably fits my Mac, laptop charger, cellphone, wallet, planner, two notebooks, a folder of press releases, pens, lip gloss, and whatever else I know I’m going to need during the day.  That’s actually more than my purse holds – by far! – so you can see why I’ve started carrying it all the time.

The GiddyUp is incredibly well made, stylish, and durable.  Currently, it’s on sale for $40 and offered in a wide range of colors.  I love the big handles, but there is another style available with a much smaller handle as well.  You can also visit sister site Gut Cases for a range of cases for hand held devices sch as Blackberries and iPhones.

Perfect for your brother, father, boyfriend – or any other hard to shop for man in your life!

“Protect one of your most valuable players, your lips!  This powerful lip balm features organic ingredients, SPF 15 for ultimate protection and a blend of organic hydrators to nourish and moisturize.  A soft, non-waxy formulation, T.K.O. POW! RIGHT IN THE KISSER! contains one of each:  Italian Ice (Wild Cherry) and Iced Out (Spearmint).  $6.”

Lip balm is a perfect stocking stuffer, or an adorable add-on to a bigger present!  They also make a sweet gift for teachers or coworkers – Secret Santa, perhaps?

“This earth-friendly nailcare set shows respect for the planet.  Made with recycled stainless steel which saves energy and reduces waste.  File is made from bamboo and eco paper.  Contains:  Stainless Steel Scissors, Stainless Steel Nipper, Eco Paper Nail File, Stainless Steel Tweezers, Bamboo Cuticle Wood Sticks.  $14″

If your dude’s into manscaping, or you’re trying to give a gentle nudge towards better nail care, check out the Recycled Nail Care 7 Piece Set!

“A dynamic fragrance that’s packed with energy, LEO combines sparkling citrus top notes of mandarin, bergamot, lemon, and neroli with sheer accents of herbal lavender, musk, and jasmine.  $38.”

Fragrance is a wonderful gift for your guy, especially if he needs a little boost in the scent department.  He’ll be thrilled to wear a scent you picked, and the bonus for you – it’s a scent you picked!  And if Leo doesn’t sound like it’s right for you and your man, check out Jock’s other scents!

I was sent a sample for review and am thrilled with the quality and fun of Jock Soap’s products!

Whether using a simple point-and-shoot camera or an advanced SLR (single lens reflex) model, the Grimms’ new book takes you through the steps to improve, display, print, and preserve your digital images.  The authors answer all our questions about the mechanics of digital cameras so you can become more creative and have pride in all your pictures.

You’ll learn how to print your own photos, pt together a snazzy slideshow, show off your pictures on the Internet, shoot successfully with a cell phone camera, and back up favorite images for posterity.

Whether you are new to digital photography or have been shooting for several years, you’ll discover ‘The Basic Book of Digital Photography’ is the most comprehensive and readable reference for all your photographic pursuits.”

This is an amazing resource for the photography lover in your life – maybe someone you gave a camera to last year?  Or if you know of someone who’s going to be gifted a camera this season (like a sibling), this will be a great “part two” gift; just make sure yours doesn’t get opened first and spoil the surprise!

I love the clear illustrations this book uses, as I’m a total visual learner.  There are even photographs of where certain buttons and features are on the camera, which is super helpful if you or your loved one is a novice photographer.  The color photos are incredibly beautiful, and make the book even more of a treasured reference.

Another cute idea is to pair this book with a Sharper Image Digital Photo Frame, 2.4″ Portable Viewer or Sharper Image 16310 Digital Photo Frame, Keychain!  Then the lucky recipient can not only take better pictures, but then show them off in a tech savvy way!  Good old fashion Nexxt by Linea Picture Frame, 27.5″ Shim Collage and a ream of photo paper will be a thoughtful accompaniment as well.  And of course, don’t forget your OWN camera so you can snap a few shots of your thoughtful gifts being unwrapped!

The Basic Book of Digital Photography: How to Shoot, Enhance, and Share Your Digital Pictures

I was sent a copy for review.

Top Notes: Awakens with a bright introduction of crisp exotic Persimmon enveloped in a lush Green Accord and enhanced by a burst of juicy Sicilian Bergamot.

Mid Notes: Twinkle Orchid and Champaca Flower notes masterfully blended with vibrant White Honeysuckle, add femininity and mystery to euphoria signature’s floral heart of dewy Lotus Blossom.

Dry Down: Transparent White Sandalwood mignles with sheer liquid Amber and a tempting Bailey’s Cream Accord, bursting to the finale of intoxicating, yet weightless, sensuality.

From now until December 31st, shoppers will receive a complimentary box of Lake Champlain chocolate with the purchase of any 3.4 oz or greater Euphoria purchase – exclusively at Macy’s, while supplies last.  You can keep both for yourself, give them together as a very special gift, or split them up and cover two friends at once!

You can purchase Calvin Klein’s Euphoria in several forms online as well.  Here are some of my favorite gift giving options:

Calvin Klein euphoria Eau de Toilette 1 oz Eau de Toilette Spray

Calvin Klein euphoria Eau de Toilette Rollerball 0.33 oz Eau de Toilette Rollerball

Calvin Klein euphoria Rollerball Set ($60 Value) Euphoria Rollerball Set

Calvin Klein euphoria 5 oz Luxurious Body Cream

Calvin Klein euphoria 6.7 oz Sensual Skin Lotion

I received samples of euphoria and the Lake Champlain chocolates.

Soft wool blend legwarmer with metallic finish featuring rolled bottom hem and ribbed banding along the top. Elastic banding along the side. These are so cute and would make a great gift for a teenager, young adult or any fashion-forward woman on your Christmas list!

Get these for only $38 on pinkmascara.com

Pink Mascara, where fashion trends are established; not followed is helping the Recessionista with fashionable Holiday finds for under $100! Pink Mascara has all your cheap n’ chic items this season from famed brands line Melinda Maria Jewelry, J.J. Winters, Free People, Wildfox, Lauren Moshi, Kain, House of Harlow, Linea Pelle, Top Secret, and Pleasure Doing Business. Whether you are looking for a great stocking stuffer, Gift exchange item, or Hanukah present, Pink Mascara has all your holiday needs!

Shop www.pinkmascara.com

tarte is one of my very favorite brands – the combination of cute packaging, high quality products, and reasonable prices is perfect!  While I’m normally impressed by their offerings, I’m especially enamored with their holiday offerings.  Whether the lady you’re shopping for is a hardcore fashionista, an eco-friendly femme, or just looking for a bit of glitz, tarte’s got the perfect gift.

Gifts Under $25

Tarte Three Carats Mini Cheek Stain Set – $25

“Three is definitely a charm when it comes to these best-selling bejeweled beauties!  The ultimate stocking stuffer, three carats mini cheek stains are infused with Tarte’s natural, t5 super fruit complex and available in three brand new, limited edition shades:  brilliant (shimmering champagne), princess (shimmering rose), and cushion (shimmering deep apricot).  The iconic, best-selling and award-winning cheek stains give you the perfect flush by easily blending into skin for a naturally rosy glow.  Cheek stains can be worn alone, or under or over foundation and powder and the easily buildable coverage gives you compete control so you can glow where and when you want to!  These blinged-out minis are all dressed up with diamond-inspired lids-and we all know diamonds are a girl’s best friend any time of year!”

Tarte FRXtion 0.12 oz – $11

“Tarte FRXtion Sugar Lip Exfoliator and Soothing Balm features exfoliating sugar crystals and vitamin E vanilla lip balm to soothe, calm, and protect lips.  A built-in mirror on the cap allows for on-the-go application.”

Tarte Femme Naturale Eye Palette – $44 ($182 Value)

“Show the world your softer side with this subdued palette packed with essentials.  A reusable purple case is accented with a fabric flower applique and filled with 10 universal eyeshadows, a double-ended brush, and a double-ended eyeliner.  The magnetic base allows you to refill and reuse, which helps to eliminate environmental waste.”

Tarte Crown Jewels Lipgloss Multi-Gift Set – $39

“3-gifts-in-1!  Each individually boxed set of 5 deluxe, brand-new glosses is attached to the lavish silver gift box – so you have the option of giving the entire set as one jaw-dropping gift or you can break apart each individual gloss set to create 3 deluxe gifts for friends, family, or co-workers.  The glosses are richly pigmented and glide on smooth, while helping to protect and repair lips thanks to our t5 super fruit complex.  Thanks to the easy-tear perforated tabs, you can simply and cleanly tear each set out without a trace.  Each individually boxed set comes complete with a removable gift-giving label on the front and a beautifully etched note on the back – so no wasteful wrapping paper or cards needed!  We’ve done all the work to make you the ultimate gift-giving goddess this holiday season.”

Tarte Femme Fatale Eye Palette – $44 ($182 Value)

“A reusable, gold-studded case that includes 10 eye shadows and an eyeliner that creates a smoldering smoky eye.”

Gifts Under $75

Tarte Treasure Chest – $52

“The annual, best-selling palette is back and 30% bigger!  As a gift to you, tarte has added an entire layer of eye shadows – yes, that’s an extra 16 full-sized eye shadows! – all for the same great price.  Whether gifting your friend, sister, mother, (or maybe yourself!), this breathtaking palette is sure to draw “oohs” and “ahhs” as each decadent layer is unveiled.  Packed with 32 new and full-sized eye shadows, 16 new lip glosses, and the best-selling Park Ave Princess mineral powder bronzer, a new shimmering highlighter, and four new powder brushes, this Sephora-exclusive bejeweled palette is sure to be at the top of everyone’s gift list and a stable on everyone’s vanity.”

Tarte Natural Beauty 7 Piece Natural Complexion Collection – $54 ($157 Value)

“A natural complexion kit that includes tarte’s best-selling, high performance natural skin-perfecting favorites.  Available in fair, light, medium, and deep shades.”

I was sent several tarte holiday samples to review, and I’m blown away!  The Crown Jewels lip gloss tower is my favorite, as I think it’s pure genius!  I’m always looking for gifts that can divided amongst friends, and tarte has provided the perfect way to do so – and without sacrificing any of the awe that will accompany the gift!  I’m also digging the silky shadows and beautifully blending blushes – tarte’s holiday collection is a home run!