In My Cart: Neiman Marcus + Target Edition

As often discussed, I'm not one for designer collaboration. I tend to be keener - as evidenced by my little spree at Neiman Marcus proper yesterday - on the splurge. That said, the Neiman Marcus + Target Collection, created in collaboration with the CFDA, has launched online and with a Target gift card in hand, I couldn't resist picking up items from a couple of my favorites, above.

Included in the mix:

• Jewelry Designer Phillip Crangi's Trinket Box (Phillip's Giles & Brother collections is one of my favorites - in particular, the quirky stud earrings)
• CFDA darling Eddie Borgo's Accent Box, though I'm not quite sure what I'll do with it once it arrives
• Impulsively, Rodarte's Holiday Ornament, simply because the galaxy print looks gorgeous.

Did you shop any of the Neiman Marcus + Target collaboration?

Luxe Must: La Prairie White Caviar Illuminating Hand Cream

As evidenced in prior posts, it doesn't take a LOT to get me to drop a LOT on things that I truly love. But when it comes to beauty products, I have tastes that can only be described as discerning. Not only do I insist that products I use deliver on RESULTS, but I also want the experience of using said product to be a JOY - it's ALL about the formulation, including scent and texture.

Thankfully, La Prairie's ultra-luxe new White Caviar Illuminating Hand Cream delivers a hat trick. With brighteners to fight any existing discoloration on hands and SPF 15 to combat against new damage, your skin will be looking its best.  Meanwhile, ultra-softening skin conditioners leave hands (including winter-ravaged cuticles) supple and hydrated. Best of all is the SCENT. It's heady yet fresh -  simultaneously, and inexplicably.

But yes, friends, beauty always comes with a price tag, and in this case, it's $150. If you're so inclined, shop La Prairie at Neiman Marcus.

Shop This: EXCLUSIVE Access to the Neiman Marcus Designer Sale

$525.00 by Rachel Zoe at Neiman Marcus

Fact: When Neiman Marcus says the words "designer sale," I stand up and PAY ATTENTION. And so, it's safe to say that my calendar has been marked for weeks for this Wednesday, November 30, as that's when (just in time for holiday shopping, parties, and the like) markdowns begin on select, premier designers at NeimanMarcus.com.

But this year, Neiman Marcus has been kind enough to acknowledge that eye4style readers deserve something a little...special, a little... VIP treatment, I daresay. SO, starting NOW  - Tuesday, November 29 at 11:00 AM CST  - you get FIRST DIBS on marked down merchandise via this link.

While I can't predict YET what will be on sale (I'm holding out hope for the sequined Rachel Zoe wonder seen above, so perf for NYE!), I can guarantee a bounty of beautiful designer wares, all up to a staggering 40% off.

Four words, friends - Go. Forth. And. Conquer.

 

Holiday Gift-Terrific: Godiva Scented Candles

I'm always beyond thrilled to receive a gorgeously scented and luxe candle, so when the new Godiva Scented Candles crossed my desk, I was in heaven.

Led by Laura Slatkin, a talented group of master perfumers combined their expertise with the skill of Godiva's chocolatiers to create five sophisticated - but of course, totally yum - home fragrances: Milk Chocolate Truffle, Raspberry Ganache, Black Almond Truffle, White Chocolate Magnolia and Peppermint Bark.

My fave is hands down the Peppermint Bark; it smells just like the real thing and oh-so-perfect for holiday.

Retail prices for the collection range from $12.50 to $22.50, so consider snagging one as a hostess or Secret Santa gift. The box is so pretty, you may not even need to wrap it!

Shop Godiva Scented Candles at Neiman Marcus.

Going Green Doesn't Have to Suck: Bamford Geranium Shampoo & Conditioner

I don't ask for much from shampoos and conditioners - just effective cleansing and detangling (though a nice scent is a bonus).  Bamford's Geranium Shampoo and Conditioner go above and beyond.

These all natural, luxe formulas leave locks smelling simply heavenly and feeling silky, silky soft.

They're a bit pricey ($10 for a travel size 2 oz bottle) but I'm always willing to pay a wee bit more when it comes to my hair. These are in limited distribution here in the States (it's a UK brand) but you can snag them via the Barney's link below or at a Neiman Marcus store near you.

 

$10.00 by Bamford at Barneys New York

Valentine's Day Gift Guide: Wearable Lingerie

Designer's Choice: Guillaume Poupart of Case Study

Designer Guillaume Poupart has a special place in my heart as a former client. His gorgeous and modern leather line, Case Study, debuted just two years ago and is already sold in some of the finest department stores around, including Neiman Marcus. I'm lucky enough to have a gorgeous fur collar coat from last season's collection and whenever I wear it, I'm inundated with compliments due to the superb fit and vintage-inspired yet modern look.

Of the Fall/Winter 2008 collection, Guillaume says:

"My favorite coat is the cracked lamb coat in plum. It is structured, shapely and super chic. And the color is rich and ultra feminine (Editor's Note - and VERY on trend this season!)"

"The inspirations were the kimono and architecture, of course. More precisely the postmodern style of Frank Gehry. I wanted to translate his curvaceous sculptural signature style into a minimalist garment."

To learn more about Case Study or to find a store locator, visit www.casestudynyc.com.