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.

Beata, the owner and designer of Amberbeata jewelry is from Poland on the coast of the Baltic Sea. She has a special connection with amber since childhood. She began studying and making jewelry in her homeland where she connected with many talented silversmiths and designers. Upon leaving Poland, her international career started in Rome. After immigrating to America, San Francisco became her home and where she began her business in 1990.

She now designs exquisite Amber jewelry of her own as well as importing magnificent pieces and one of a kind specialty items which are all hand crafted by Polish designers. Through the unique selection of her line, Amber will reveal to you its magical and exquisite beauty. Baltic Amber, famous for its unparalleled quality, is available on her website in classic styles, as well as one of a kind pieces.

L to R: Amber Earrings – $80, Amber Ring – $75, Amber Bracelet – $199

The enticing treasures of Amber and the millions of years of history which are captured in each stone are amazing. I was so thankful to receive a few of Beata’s gorgeous pieces to review. They are absolutely amazing in person. The sterling silver is highly polished and very high quality. And the amber stones are breathtaking.

The amber pendant was my favorite piece of all.

Beata’s jewelry is just amazing. Every woman has room in her jewelry box for a warm, romantic piece of amber jewelry and the color is more versatile than you think. Easily worked into boho, glam and contemporary outfits for any time of year. Amber jewelry makes a great gift too!

Shop Amberbeata.com

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.

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

“The Deluxe Boxed Set is a dramatic way to displaying the Original Gifts of Christmas. The set comes with a generous quantity of pure, authentic frankincense and myrrh. Both are the finest grade from the same regions as the gifts brought by the Magi at that first Christmas more than 2000 years ago. The silhouette of the Magi following the Christmas star, printed in gold, adorns the lid of this rich looking, solid wood box. The cherry-stained stained finish is offset by the unique brass latch. This large box measures 9 ½ inches x 4 ¼ inches x 3 ½ inches. The interior of the box is striking with its luxurious red satin lining on both the padded lid and base. The large tears of frankincense, hand-blown gold ball and crystals of Arabian myrrh are nestled together in this beautiful collection of the Gifts of the Three Kings. This unique set is a rich and dramatic way of displaying the Original Gifts of Christmas.”

Three Kings Box Set, $59.95

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!

Philosophy Good Energy 3-in-1 $20/16 oz

“We could all use some good energy to fuel our souls. philosophy’s good energy high-foaming shower gel and bubble bath 16 oz. was created to gently cleanse and condition your skin, while sending you good energy with its uplifting, orange cassis scent. Enjoy an invigorating, rich, foaming lather that leaves your skin feeling soft and your soul vibrant. 100% of philosophy’s net proceeds from the sale of this product are donated to Young Women’s Leadership Network.”

Mission Skincare Super-C Lip Balm $2.99

“Co-founded, created and tested by some of the world’s best athletes including Serena Williams, David Wright, Steve Nash and Mia Hamm, the NEW SUPER-C Lip Balm in Yazu Berry features a unique and proprietary blend of powerful vitamins and antioxidants in a soothing and hydrating formula to relieve dry, cracked lips. It contains naturally moisturizing and emollient ingredients such as the Shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil, beeswax and candelilla wax. As a part of GNC’s annual Thanks and Giving campaign, $1 from the purchase price of every SUPER-C Lip Balm will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.”

Anthony Logistics For Men Whisker Lifter Shave Brush and Stand $80

“Some men just aren’t going for that Santa look this season. Enter the Whisker Lifter, a must-have brush to prepare the beard for the closest and most comfortable shave. This classic barbershop basic is perfect for men who fall victim to shaving-induced irritation: soft, man-made bristles, an anti-bacterial coating to prevent germs, and a bristle head that allows for a richer, more emollient later. The high gloss black handle designed for durability and ease of handling will add an element of style to any man’s grooming routine.  A percentage of all holiday gift sales from Anthony Logistics For Men will be donated to prostate cancer awareness charities.“

Altru Products $15 – $65

“The exotic scents and patterns on the packaging help to evoke special memories of places around the world known for their beauty and artistic contribution. The brand supports the In a Perfect World Foundation by donating 20% of all product proceeds, and each of the aromatic and exotic scents are named after a core value or attribute that one might find in a “perfect world”. This holiday season, give the gift that gives back with this luxurious collection of soy blend candles, interior fragrance oils, incense sticks and incense accessories.”

Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies Gift Set

Snuggle up and channel your own Snow Bunny. G, Music, Angel, Baby or Love are each layered up with the season’s most fashionable items – Love’s boots are exact replicas of a pair of Vivienne Westwood’s! Whether you prefer strolling the streets, hitting the slopes, or staying warm by the roaring fire, there’s a Harajuku Girl Snow Bunny to fit any of your wintertime moods. But the chilly days of winter won’t last forever and neither do these dolls – they’re around for a limited time only!

The new Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies are $30 each and available at Sephora.com and Nordstrom.

They make a great gift idea for ladies on your list. And if you’re a huge fan of the Harajuku Girls, you might even consider the adorable Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies Bag Collection that includes a brush case, travel bag, organizer and clutch, with prices starting around $20.

Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies Bag Collection

This month, come play Genki Jump with the Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies. Use the arrow keys to hop along ice blocks and watch out for spikes and stinky fish, but keep your eyes on bonus fruits to win kawai prizes!

Don’t forget to follow @HarajukuLover_G, the official Snow Bunnies Twitter Profile, for more insider tips and prizes!

Their products are crafted from a range of genuine Italian calf hide and pig skin leather. Every leather item in their collection can be personalized by embossing names, dates or initials on the product.

Kiki James aims to produce luxury items at affordable prices so you can get the look for less. The company was kind enough to send me one of their items to review. I received the women’s Chelsea wallet in a gorgeous dark purple just last week. It arrived in a pretty box and the presentation was lovely.

The wallet itself is a little stiff, but I would imagine after use it would soften a bit. I assume it is made like this so it will last a long time. Being that I don’t have a lot of experience with leather, I really don’t know!

It has a separate zipped compartment for coins and other miscellany, six credit card slots and a pocket for notes and receipts. The zipped compartment is divided in half, giving you room to hide away ‘to do’ lists, safety pins or jewelry.

The zipper hardware on the wallet is silver, so it will blend in nicely with most purses and handbags. The Chelsea purse is easily personalized as well, so it would make a great gift idea for the Holidays.

This particular wallet comes in an array of beautiful colors and costs £35.20 (approx $52 usd). You can get it on www.kikijames.com. Makes a great gift!!

Be sure to check out their gorgeous leather women’s purses for more gift ideas!

Beauty.com is adding a new designer to their popular bag collaboration roster, this time offering a one-of-a-kind gift with purchase with famed jewelry designers Karen Erickson and Vicki Beamon. Beginning November 16th, shoppers who visit Beauty.com and spend $100 or more will receive an exclusive, limited-time sample-stuffed gift with purchase ‘Glenda Party Bag,’ the perfect chic carryall for your makeup must-haves. Filled with prestige beauty samples, the exclusive set is valued at over $150.

The newest designer bag collaboration from Beauty.com invites famed jewelry designers Karen Erickson and Vicki Beamon to transform the traditional cosmetic tote into a glittering gift with purchase this holiday season. Legendary for their runway collaborations with designers such as Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Dior, and Givenchy, Erickson Beamon is the first jewelry house to be featured in the gift with purchase designer bag series. The accessory features whimsically printed duchess satin, a bijoux zipper pull, embossed gold logo tassel, and lace and pearl embellishments. Spacious, yet pleasingly portable, the ‘Glenda Party Bag’ is a perfect gift for toting beauty staples during holiday travels.

“The Erickson Beamon collaboration offers an accessible splurge for Beauty.com customers,” says Kathleen McNeill, president of Beauty.com. “Whether you’re replenishing beauty must-haves or shopping for holiday gifts, the ‘Glenda Party Bag’ is an affordable luxury.”

The Erickson Beamon ‘Glenda Party Bag’ is valued at over $150 and comes packed with a great assortment of 13 deluxe and full-sized samples from some of the top prestige beauty brands:

1. dr.brandt® Microdermabrasion Body Exfoliating Cream
2. FULL SIZE Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencil
3. Talika Eye Decompress
4. Nick Chavez® Beverly Hills PLUMP ‘N THICK® Thickening Hairspray
5. Jack Black® Industrial Strength Hand Healer
6. Rene Furturer Myrrhea Anti-Frizz Silkening Mask Tube
7. DIANA B. Scented Candle
8. Smashbox Lash DNA Mascara
9. StriVectin® Neck Cream
10. DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer
11. PHYTO Phytolisse Finishing Serum
12. INTELLIGENT NUTRIENTS® LIP DELIVERY NUTRITION
13. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

The Erickson Beamon ‘Glenda Party Bag’ is one of many one of the perks available to Beauty.com customers this holiday season. In addition to the usual categories, Beauty.com offers a shop by personality gift finder, a video library with dozens of clips from top brands and industry insiders, skincare and hair care diagnostic tools, and other valuable gift offers. Other year-round benefits include “Everyday Free Shipping,” 5% back on every purchase, the free sample center, 100% color match guarantee, and a shared online shopping cart with Beauty.com’s partner site, drugstore.com. A new site feature also invites customers to shop the best beauty buys and value sets in addition to the brand-specific gifts with purchase available. Beauty fans can also get the latest tips, trends, and promotions sent directly to their email by signing up for the free weekly Beauty Bulletin on Beauty.com.

Become a fan of Beauty.com on Facebook to learn more about products and get tips and tricks from beauty experts: www.facebook.com/Beauty.com.

Click here to get the designer bag filled with deluxe samples!
$150 value – free with $100 purchase at Beauty.com!

About Beauty.com – The World of Beauty Online™

Beauty.com, Inc. is a leading online destination for prestige beauty products. The web store provides a highly personalized shopping experience and offers more than 200 brands from widely recognized to niche, hard-to-find products. Beauty.com is wholly owned by drugstore.com, inc.

About Erickson Beamon

Erickson Beamon doesn’t make jewelry; they make fashion. Founded by Detroit natives Karen Erickson and Vicki Beamon, Erickson Beamon’s iconic statement jewelry has dazzled the world to great critical acclaim for over 25 years. No other jeweler is as closely linked to the runway as this dynamic duo, who collaborate with the industry’s most illustrious talent, including Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Donna Karan, Zac Posen, Anna Sui, Dries Van Noten.