Online - December 02, 2008

The Art of Giving (to Her)

2008 Holiday Gift Guide for Girls

One for you, one for me is the name of the game this year. Gift her a donation to a charity in her name, accompanied by a memento from the same school of thought.

American Humane
She’ll smile all year long with this letterpress 2009 calendar of cute dog faces. You might elicit a bark with Wagwear’s chic pet carrier. And ensure she strolls in style in a pair of sparkly sneakers. She’ll take in the beauty of a John Murphy collage (all depict animals) every day of the year.

Feeding America
Give her the joy of cooking minus the hassle with Lazy Baker mixes. Make her queen of the kitchen with this limited-edition knife from Zwilling. Stuff her stocking with the gift of health in the form of dried fruit in a cute container. Hostesses will thrill at pretty tumblers and cocktail napkins. And give her gastronomic creations the attention they deserve on a stunning Masala platter.

Habitat for Humanity
Keep her busy at home with a puzzle that’s literally a work of art. She’ll squeal when she opens the iPig, an adorable iPod docking station that pumps out serious sound. A pretty checkbook cover will bring a smidge of delight as she doles out cash. Make bathtime luxurious with Diptyque’s new line of lotions and shower gels.

Red Cross
If she’s holiday obsessed, she’ll be delighted with John Robshaw stockings to hang from the mantle, especially if they’re stuffed with sweet-smelling soy candles. Snazz up her sofa with a bright, fuzzy pillow. And come spring, she’ll think of you every time she gets her hammock on.

Dress for Success
Since holiday 2008 marks Jane Mayle’s last collection, any stylish siren will covet a piece from it (eLuxury and La Garçonne are your best bets). She definitely won’t give you the finger if you deck hers in a pretty ring. And these cuffs look high dollar but cost low. Keep her dry without sacrificing style with a sleek umbrella. If you can splurge, this classic leather jacket is worth every last penny. If she appreciates the finer things in life (and you have deep pockets), a membership to Quintessentially is the creme de la creme.