Happy New Year!

When you head out tonight, don't forget MILK or our best tips for avoiding a hangover. Then as our friend Letisha said, "2008, don't let the door hit you on the way out!"

Wishing everyone a healthy and happy '09!

Champagne on New Year's

Are you serving or gifting bubbly tonight? We're big fans and thought we'd give you our recession-inspired options that taste great and won't put you out. Sorry no links because there's no time left for on-line ordering; but these are easy to find at the grocery or wine shop.

Champagne, the traditional bubbly, is produced only in the Champagne region of France. Our pick? Perrier-Jouet with its Art Nouveau label will run you about $35 (though some vintages soar in the hundreds).

Its Italian cousin, Prosecco, is popular with our girlfriends and good bottles are less expensive than champagne. We always buy Il Prosecco in multiples because we finish them off so quickly ($13). Don't let the bottle cap throw you, this one is delicious!

Lastly, American sparkling wine didn't used to be highly regarded; but California continues to surprise. Try this festive bottle of Sofia Coppola Blanc de Blancs for $19 that comes wrapped in pink cellophane. Or better yet, guys bring beer, you bring a four pack of mini Sofia Coppola Blanc de Blancs to the party (yes, they're pink cans, straws included, $16).

Traveling for New Year’s? Now that you know what you're wearing, we checked in with Erin Anderson of Brooklyn’s Woodley and Bunny and TRESemmé spokesperson for tips on perfect hair—whether you’re ringing in the New Year in the big city or at the beach:

City Chic: Flatiron District
• Apply TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Hold Mousse throughout wet hair, and blow dry straight using a large round brush.
• Once dry, apply TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, and flatiron for super-sleek locks.
• Using a flat brush, sweep the hair back into a bun. Finish the hair with a dab of TRESemmé Anti-Frizz Secret Smoothing Crème for control and shine. Need some cover? Throw on a fedora – this season’s hottest hat, like the YSL one Ali Larter wore to Tao Las Vegas.

Beach Vibe: Natural Texture
• Scrunch TRESemmé Touchable Curls Shaping Milk into damp curly or wavy hair and diffuse. While drying, be sure to keep scrunching product into hair to encourage the hair’s natural texture.
• Using a small curling iron, curl random sections through the head. Then, take a large barrel curling iron, and create more random pieces.
• Apply TRESemmé Anti-Frizz Secret Smoothing Crème to hands and run through hair to define and separate curls.
• Short hair? Spray wet hair with TRESemmé Big Boost Root Lift Spray, and blow dry with fingers for larger-than-life texture.

For more of Erin's advice, check out TRESemmé StyleSeekers.

New Year's Eve at the Beach

If you're fortunate enough to be spending your New Year's in a beach-y local or if you're lucky like our girlfriend Abby and live in a hot spot like Miami, one of these dresses would work great:

ShallowGal turned us on to Calypso's halter dresses. We love the Pazzi mini-dress for its retro mod styling. This shade of blue suits a beach or pool-side party and the lightweight silk dupioni would feel so comfortable after a day in the sun. It's on sale for $89 from $195 and comes in 14 different colors!

We haven't seen the brand new Thakoon collection for Target in person yet and it wasn't getting trashed by our pals on Twitter; but this dress looks fun and flirty to us -- and it's only $39.

Neiman's has a huge selection of dresses and this one from Nanette Lepore with its open back and swim suit styling is on sale for $165.

How to Use Double Stick Tape

Wearing a strapless or other dress or top with the possibility for a wardrobe malfunction? We’ve been experimenting with Hollywood Fashion Tape (double stick tape) for a few months now to keep our dresses up. We had been sticking the double sided tape on our well-padded strapless bra, but that just made our bra heavy and the top of our dress wrinkle all funny.

We saw our opportunity to glean some expert advice from uber-stylist Robert at his holiday brunch a few weeks back. (Robert is the go to stylist for Eve Longoria and other celebs.) Robert was not shy about sticking his hand down the front of our dress to tell us what we were doing wrong (think slightly less scandalous than Isaac Mizrahi and Scarlett Johansson at the Golden Globe’s a few years back.) Robert’s advice: Place the double stick tape where you want it to stick. With a strapless dress, that means placing it on the sides of your body, directly on your skin, not your bra for the best support. As we learned the hard way, a bra wasn’t meant to hold up your boobs and your dress. Next time you see us in that red dress (photo above), we’ll be dancing like an extra in the Wedding Crashers!

Dressing for New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is less than a week away and with the sales hitting rock bottom, it may be the perfect time to blow some of your Christmas cash or use up those gift cards your mother got you. If you're not lucky enough to have either, you should treat yourself, you deserve it! We found some great deals at Cusp this weekend (50% off already reduced prices). These dresses would make you the toast of the party and you could still wear them for other events coming up in 09 as well. Happy shopping!

We love this navy ombre, glitter, and tulle RN Convertible dress at Cusp on sale for $173 from $495.

If you're looking for something more traditional we dig this floral lace pouf dress by Milly for $157 from $450.

While over at Sak's, you can score this sexy Brian Reyes dress for an astonishing $370, marked down from $1,550--and they even have it in every size from a 2 to a 10!

John Mayer Cruise

We're still kicking ourselves for not going on last year's Mayercraft Carrier -- we would seriously pay good money to see publicity whore John Mayer wearing that Borat inspired neon green onesie as he did on last year's. But even if we don't see his appeal, John obviously has it going on with the ladies: Jen Aniston took him back despite his loose lip antics with the press, his list of exs looks like a presenters list at the Golden Globes and apparently a whole cruise ship full of women want to see him perform. If you count yourself as one of them, get on over to Mayercraft Carrier 2 and sign up for the '09 sailing: March 27-31. The Carnival cruise ship sails from L.A. to Cabos for a port day then back to LA again. (We imagine this will be a far cry from the Celebrity Solstice preview cruise we took.)

More important than any destination, to his fans at least, is John and other musical guests O.A.R. and Guster will preform on the cruise. We asked if John is actually on the cruise or if he choppers in for performances and were told by reps of the cruise agency: John Mayer will perform several shows throughout the course of the cruise. We leave that up to your interpretation as to whether John will be at the midnight buffet or not.

The 4 night cruise costs $1,298-$1,498 per person and doesn't include concert tix or alcohol. If you are an American Express card member, you can attend a Q&A with John Mayer and a VIP cocktail party as well as get VIP check-in at the port All you need is code: SXMAE.

Photo courtesy of Huffington Post

Molton Brown on Boxing Day

When you head to the mall todayto take advantage of even further markdowns at all your fave stores, stop by your local Molton Brown. They're collecting unused toys to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of America. For each toy donated, you'll get a free travel size product and be eligible to win an even bigger assortment on Molton Brown products. (Limit of 5 toys/sample sizes per customer.) The promotion runs all weekend long, December 26-28. To find a store near you, click here.

How to Look Good in Holiday Party Photos

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

For tips on looking good in your holiday photos, check out Carson Kressely's video on Nikon's How To Look Good In Photos. Watch out for JSG's Annie (left) and About.com's Felissa (right) Voguing it up around the minute mark putting Carson's advice to work!

Holiday Gift Guide: Really Last Minute Gift Ideas

If you're on the run like we are the next couple of days picking up groceries and last minute nick nacks; don't overlook the plethora of gift cards at every check out counter. Our Safeway must have hundreds of options: From restaurants to department stores to Home Depot to iTunes cards. We have bought a bit of everything there.

And if you want something that feels more substantial (but might not cost as much); pick up a DVD (or lottery ticket) at 7-11 or the grocery store or even the truck stop on the way. We asked for a copy of Sex and the City and are sure any of our lady friends would love it too; for him we're going to get The Dark Knight, Heath Ledger's swan song.

How to Avoid a Hangover

After another killer hangover over the weekend, we figure it’s time for a refresher on how to avoid them:

• Obviously, moderation is key. Our years of drinking have taught us that there’s no hangover cure like not drinking too much the night before.
• Our acupuncturist recommends drinking vodka over wine (presumably Champagne, too.)
• Don’t drink on an empty stomach – even if that means having a little nibble before you head to the party or dinner.
• Mixing booze is a recipe for disaster.
• Stop drinking at least an hour before you go to bed. Your body doesn’t have a shot at processing the alcohol while you’re asleep.
• Don’t drink and drive (not related to hangovers, but bears mentioning all the same).
• Have a glass of water between each drink- dehydration exacerbates a hangover big time!

If all else fails, check out our best hangover cures.

Holiday Gift Guide - Free Last Minute Shipping

Calling all procrastinators: It’s not too late to shop online and get your gifts delivered by Christmas Eve! Here are a few deals you can still take advantage of without having to leave your home.

Saks is offering free shipping until 1 pm EST with code: SFAGift. Use it on this Juicy wristlet for $57.



Neiman Marcus is offering free shipping today until 1 pm EST with code: QUICKNM. Use it on this sweet cashmere short sleeve sweater for only $48.



Prescriptives is offering free shipping today only til 1 pm EST with code: FNIGHT8. Our pick is this set of 10 mini lipglosses for $29.


And for the truly late, order by NOON on Christmas Eve (the 24th) and Bobbi Brown will email a gift certificate to a special friend or relative. Our girlfriend, Julia, would love this trunk to store her jewelry (hint, hint BF). Makeup sold separately.

Know of any free shipping promotions we missed? Please share!

Holiday Gift Guide - Last Minute Gifts - Jewelry

One of our secret spots for finding trendy jewelry on the cheap is Banana Republic. The pieces are well-designed, reasonably sturdy for the price point and look like you picked them up months ago on your exotic vacation. Here are a few pieces we like off the website, also likely available at a Banana near you.

A cuff bracelet for $24.99

An elephant ring for $14.99

Embellished hoops for $24.99

Holiday Gift Guide - Last Minute Gift -Lottery ticket

Not done with your holiday shopping? Not to worry, we still have one last elusive gift for our SO that we’ve been trying to hunt down (We can’t say what it is here, since he’s an avid JSG reader). We’ll be bringing you a few last minute, easy-to-find gifts, starting with what we got our pops last year (Dad is another avid JSG reader. Love you, Dad!).

The men on our list are always the hardest to buy for—chances are you feel that way, too. Unlike our girlfriends, they aren’t excited by a killer makeup palette, flirty hat or darling sleep mask. Our dad in particular is a challenge—he’s reached an age where he already owns or can pretty much buy anything he wants for himself and we’ve come close to exhausting all our gift options in the past few years (DVD player, subscription to Netflix, iPod, iPod speakers, cookbooks, bestsellers) . Last year, we’re ashamed to admit, we procrastinated until the 24^th to buy his present. When faced with the option of standing in line at a store at the mall for 5 hours and another lame-ish gift, inspiration hit us: a year-long lottery ticket. Dad had bought himself one the year before and all we had to do was pop in to the nearest Seven Eleven where we could buy ourselves a Slurpee to boot.

Ironically, dad seemed to like the lottery ticket better than any gift we had ever given him. We guess there’s something to giving someone a gift they actually like over what you think they should like. Unfortunately, the ticket wasn’t a big winner, but for a year, it was a gift that could have kept on giving!

Buy Howard Stern's Coat

This may be the most perfect Christmas gift yet: A leather jacket owned by Howard Stern and signed by the crazy radio genius himself is up for auction on eBay. The shock jock, along with Whitney Port and Olivia Palermo, Kimora Lee, Natalie Merchant, Brooke Sheilds and the women from the Real Housewives of New York City donated and signed coats for the auction, sponsored by Completely Bare and benefiting New York Cares. The auction ends December 28. Every year, New York Cares sponsors a coat drive for those in need. They typically receive about 80,000 coats--JSG has even donated a few.



We kinda like the Ugg coat signed by Whitney and Olivia (shown above). Picture yourself wearing it on a cold day in L.A. with your favorite skinnies and ankle booties. Aahh-you can almost smell the paparazzi!

Holiday Gift Guide - The Ultimate Scotch

Here’s another gift for the guys on your list: A bottle of Peat Monster Reserve. It’s sure to impress your banker boyfriend (and help him drown his sorrows if he’s part of the pink slip club). Scotch is the hot new drink and this one is sold as a magnum only, which (as we're told). any connoisseur knows is nearly unheard of in the whiskey world. It retails for $150. To find a store near you, click here.

New Year's Eve at the Mandarin Oriental

We'll be in D.C. for New Year's Eve and while we normally pass the bubbly at a friend's house, this year we'd love to don our sequins and find a cool spot to celebrate sans kids. The Mandarin Oriental is hosting a party in the Empress Lounge, one of the best spots in D.C. to listen to jazz. The package for two includes hors d'oeuvres, dessert, and a bottle of Veuve (not to mention the requisite hats and noise makers), and features talented performers Sharon Clark and Dick Smith. Prices start at $190. If you're curious and don't want to commit to the package, you can order drinks from the bar and dance; but not be guaranteed a seat.

The Mandarin is also offering reduced rates at the hotel if you want to stay over, from $315. We spent a night there over the holidays last year and be assured it was so nice we'll be there in January for our annual girls' trip.

On Our Radar: Budget Travel

Given the current economic climate, there’s not a hotel out there that’s not offering some kind of deal, be it a reduced rate, third night free or food and drink credit. We like these recession busters for their clever packaging:

Crash Pads
Tesoro Resorts in Los Cabos is offering a $60 per night crash pad. The no frills room gives you the chance to experience all the sun, sand and tequila Mexico has to offer, without breaking the bank. Use promo code “Crash” when searching for rates.



Pay with Stock
Elite Island Resorts with locations in Antigua, Nevis (shown above), Tortolla and more is allowing guests to pay up to $5,000 with stock. The cool part is, they’ll credit you the stock’s value from July 1, 2008, before the stock market tanked. The program is aptly named, “Roll Back Your Stock’s Value.” You must book travel by January 31 and your trip must be between now and December 20, 2009—no black out dates!


401K Travel
The new Inn at St. Botolph in Boston’s back bay has a $401K deal which includes 3 nights stay on a Sunday through Thursday, a $50 gift card for retail therapy and the business section removed out of your morning paper. That oughta do the trick!

$1 Breakfast
And no we're not talking the value menu at McDonald's! Our perennial fave, the Kimpton Group, is offering breakfast for $1 through March 31, 2009. Enter the code EAT when booking. We'd like to check out the new Epic Hotel opening this month in Miami.

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Him

We found some great gifts for dad, your bro, your BF or husband at Target (these are on line in case you can't stand to fight the crowds). This flask will make it into the stadium with no worries about the pesky security check- it's shaped like a pair of binoculars. For a bargain $10, this one could suit more than one man on your list.

This charging station can power up his iPod and his cell. Super models with bells and whistles will run you $60 to $120 at Pottery Barn; but at Target this one is only $10.
We love the retro look of the Vers Wood iPod Speaker Dock and the gushing reviews from customers are convincing enough to think he won't be disappointed with the sound output. For $149.99, it's more substantial than the other gifts we found; but this one will score you big points.

Free shipping on orders over $50 at Target on-line. Order by today, December 18th to get it there by Christmas using standard shipping. If you're running late, Target offers 1 and 2 day shipping for an extra charge.

Gwyneth Paltrow's Favorite Places in LA

While we’re mixed about Gwyneth’s acting career (loved her in Emma and Shakespeare in Love, were completely annoyed by her in Shallow Hal and View from the Top, and lukewarm on her Pepper Potts in Iron Man), we covet her effortless style. It doubtlessly helps that she is 6-feet tall and a total rail, so even in jeans and a white button down she looks flawless.

We love that Gwyneth is blogging and not in an let’s-air-all-my-dirty-laundry-Lindsay Lohan kinda way. On Goop, Gwyneth shares her recipes, gift picks and travel advice in a weekly newsletter. Last week she shared her favorite hotels and restaurants in LA—the city where she was born and partially raised. Here are a few of her picks that are on our must try list:

Shutters in Santa Monica—Gwyn likes the ocean views and oversized tubs
Beverly Hills Hotel and the Hotel Bel Air—Both are oldies but goodies
The London West Hollywood—She plans to stay at this newly spot (shown above) on her next trip out west.

Read on for Gwyneth Paltrow’s LA restaurant picks.

Bud Light Limetails

We had a request to share a recipe for a Bud Light Limetail from the Robert Verdi brunch on Sunday. Here's their version of a Bloody Mary, the Proud Mary:


6 oz. Bud Light Lime
2 oz. Tequila (or to taste)
4 oz Tomato juice
Chipolte flavored Tabasco

Try it during those upcoming playoff games!

Naughty Paris: A Lady's Guide to the Sexy City

We had a busy November traveling to Austin, cruising on the new Celebrity Solstice, and Thanksgiving in Chicago; but this month we're dedicated to decking the halls and staying put. When we need a break from shopping and wrapping we dive into Heather Stimmler-Hall's Naughty Paris: A Lady's Guide to the Sexy City. Heather is an American living in Paris and knows everything from the chicest shopping to the best restaurants; but more intriguing she shares the kinkiest cabarets, French pick-up lines, and erotic adult shops. The writing is informal and friendly and the photography is beautiful. This isn't the Paris that Frommer's shares with the masses. We love this little gem even more after meeting Heather last month on her book tour -- she's charming and engaging just as you'd expect a naughty expert to be.

A few years back, we went to Paris every year. Then the dollar tanked and that plan was put on hiatus. But now that the exchange rate is more reasonable (or at least it was until yesterday's latest rate cut), we see a trip in our near future. And when we start to plan it, Heather's naughty website will be our first stop.



Naughty Paris: A Lady's Guide to the Sexy City is available at Amazon.

And the Winner Is...

Thank you for all your entries. We're happy to give this gorgeous White + Warren scarf to Shevaun Atherton of Windham, Maine. Keep reading for more great giveaways in the future!

Happy holidays, Anne and Hope

Holiday Gift Guide - Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

Everyone's favorite Shu Uemura is dressed up for the holidays. The cult favorite eyelash curler is dipped in gold* and tied with a bow, making this must-have for every makeup bag a luxurious gift. Because it's gold, it's easier to find at the bottom of your toiletry bag, one more reason this is on our list to Santa. It's available exclusively at Sephora for $24 until the limited edition curler sells out.

*While the package says 24K, we figure it's gold-plated. At $24, we're pretty sure it's not solid gold. Whatevs--we still want it.

For a limited time, Sephora is offering FREE SHIPPING on select items. Just enter code GIFTY at checkout!

Holiday Brunch Ideas

On Sunday, we went to Robert Verdi's Holiday Brunch at his to-die-for Luxe Labs in New York. Every time we go there, we get a little green over his decorating skills (no one, and we mean no one, can mix prints and colors like Robert can). This time around, we got a little green food and cocktail envy, too. The party was sponsored by Bud Light Lime and all the food and cocktails were made with Bud Light Lime. Are you sitting there scratching your head? We were a little skeptical at first ourselves, too, but converted pretty quickly. (Considering Hope's new love of Bud Light and our obvious affection for Robert Verdi's party, you might mistake us for Bud Light Girls. But no worries-we're still bubbleholics at heart!)

We're still salivating over the Chilled Lobster, Shrimp and Scallops dish. The lobster was boiled in BLL and the shrimp was poached in it. This one is a no brainer--we've been cooking our crabs in beer since before we were the legal drinking age. The more advanced beer dish was Lime Spiked Tropical Fruits--a medley of papaya, mango, pineapples, lychees and more with a "vinaigrette" of BLL, candied ginger, mint and cilantro. We're planning on serving a version of this crowd-pleaser on Christmas morning.

Culinary creative brilliance was in the spotlight with the Limetails, cocktails made with Bud Light Lime. Our fave was the Light White Cosmo--a cosmo made from BLL, vodka, white cranberry juice and framboise liqueur (this is the drink the hunky bartender is pouring in our video montage). Also served up was the Lime Shandy, BLL with sparkling ginger lemonade (that's the drink Anna Ortiz and Robert are drinking) and a Bellini (BLL replaced the Prosecco).

Besides being a novelty and a great excuse to throw a party, the benefit of using Bud Light Lime in your cocktails is a way to save money--it's a heck of a lot cheaper than Cointreau or bubbly. It could cut the calorie count--and who can't use a few less of those these days? It's also potentially lower in alcohol, which makes it better for morning events, like your next holiday brunch.

Jouer Cosmetics

We've been experimenting with a new set of makeup this week: Jouer. It's described as a luxury line, the price point is about the same as Bobbi Brown as is its intention-- to enhance a woman's natural beauty. We found soft shimmering pinks, taupes, and light browns.

What sets this collection apart is its unique packaging that clicks together, like legos for women, and allows you to customize your own palette. For daily use, we would snap the full set together (face perfector, blush, eyeshadows, lip gloss, and even mascara); but at night, we would scale down to blush and gloss. The products that stand out are the powder eye shadow in pink champagne which has a silky texture that can be used wet or dry; the gloss, which we tried in sunset, is moisturizing and not sticky at all (a major peeve of ours); and the face perfector adds nice light coverage and is great if you're on the go and need to touch up.

Jouer was launched a few years ago, but redesigned this summer, and is now available at Henri Bendel stores and Jouer on-line.

Since we're still on the lookout for gifties for our friends: the Jouer Holiday 08 Set is perfect. It includes the Julie lipstick (goldish pink), Glace lipgloss (champagne), and a metallic pouch, all for $35.

Louis Vuitton and Stephen Sprouse

The Louis Vuitton tribute website to Stephen Sprouse goes live today at welovesprouse.com. The website features interviews with people who knew the designer, including Sex and the City costumer Patricia Field and Debbie Harry, and a section on Stephen Sprouses favorite spots around NYC.

This is all in preparation for the Stephen Sprouse Rock on Mars retrospective at the Deitch Projects Gallery on January 8, and, most importantly for your Louis fans out there, the launch of the Sprouse-inspired graffiti collection for Louis Vuitton. That's designer Marc Jacobs (above) with a bag from the line from the January issue of Bazaar.

Turn Down Service: Total Beauty Style

Viva Woman found Moroccan rhassoul clay great for facial cleansing!
The Jet Set Girls are giving away a White + Warren Cashmere Ombre Scarf worth $195!
Indian Girl tells us how to embrace the dark lip trend and is giving away Julie Hewett Lipstick in Sin Noir to help you do just that ! Enter Today !
Monique at Beauty Girl Musings reviews Bioelements Quick Refiner. Find out what she thinks of this liquid-gel exfoliator!
Beauty411 shares the details of the lovely Dior Black and White Ball Collection. One of the prettiest holiday collections of the season!
Top Blushes by Marta-Talking Makeup!
Alison of The Advice Sisters wrote about a soap that not only cleans YOU, but also help to clean up land mines a cause close to the heart of a special princess, and lots of glittery "eye candy," too
Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog weighs in on the best of the best mascaras.
Beauty Anonymous shares Chanel Spring 2009 Makeup Collection.
Beauty Secrets Revealed shares an Essential Oil Recipe For Healthy And Strong Nails.
Makeup Files has you covered this holiday season. Save money with the 5 Beauty Gifts under $15 or, go for broke with the 5 Extravagant Beauty Gifts over $50. That'll help cross some names off your gift list!
Frappelattes smells and gives her two "scents" on Armani Code for Women. (It smells delicious!)
Beauty Junkies Unite checks out beauty newcomer, on10 Cosmetics and finds something yummy in the process!
A little behind on your holiday shopping? eye4style has you covered with this giveway of two $50 gift cards to AZJeans.com!
This week Fabulous Over Forty has a beauty gift to fit any Beauty on a Budget.
The Makeup Divas are having another fabulous giveaway. So head on over and enter to win the first edition of Beautyfix!
Win a pair of KEEN shoes on A Mom in Red High Heels. You'll love the comfort, quality and styles.
The Beauty Couch turned up some handy hints for using cream blush inspired by the tarte Mini Cheek Stain Set.
Want to smell good without smelling like perfume? Visit The Beauty Blog for a review of philosophy fragrances, which smell clean and wonderful without smelling perfume-y (and don't bother those sensitive to perfumes!).
Missed out on the Mineral Makeup Trend? Learn everything you need to know about Mineral Makeup at Mineral Makeup Reviews.
Should you add Glycolic Acid to your skin care regimen? Read The Benefits of Glycolic Acid at RN Guide to Skin Care to help you decide.
The girls over at Beauty in Real Life are having a giveaway with Bioelements. Click here to enter.
Glossypink chats about the eyeshadow duo that's perfect for anyone!
It has been done! MissWhoever You Are has found the one lipgloss that has disappointed her.
Face Candy reviews some great NARS Nail Polishes.
The Beauty Alchemist helps her nails to Eve Lom Cuticle Cream.
ThisThatBeauty is all about skin renewal and Cargo's blu_ray Polishing Cloths are getting the job done.
Find out what makeup loves me is getting herself this Christmas!
TotalBeauty.com has a great offer to share! On Monday, December 15th (ONLY!), you can get FREE OVERNIGHT SHIPPING on any purchase you make on products listed in this Holiday Beauty "It" List. See site for details.

Holiday Gift Guide - Origins Checks and Balances

We're always on the lookout for products that meet the liquid restrictions for our carry on bag (currently 3 oz. max). The Origins Checks and Balances Travel Companion is a 3 pack of one of our all time favorite cleansers and we can take it on board with us. Why do we like this one so much? It lathers up, has wheat protein to soothe our dry skin (a must after plane travel) and has tourmaline to help prevent breakouts and (another must after plane travel. No, life isn't fair). Order before December 16 for free shipping. The 3- pack is $18.50.

Holiday Gift Guide- Stocking Stuffer

While a ball of hair bands may not seem like an obvious Christmas gift, we know from experience that all your long-haired friends will appreciate this Bumble and Bumble bandball. We can't tell you how many hours JSG has lost searching high and low for a hair band. We've snuck into countless yoga classes, nodding red-faced apologies to the instructor while the rest of the class is om-ing away, all for lack of a proper hair band. These aren't just any hairbands--they won't rip your hair out when you adjust your pony. The ball of 100 hairbands is $20 and sold out online, but still available at Bumble and Bumble retailers around the country. If you really get stuck, give us a shout and we'll pick one up at the NYC salon, which as our friends know, is our home away from home.

Holiday Gift Guide - Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual

Stumped on what to get the friend who has everything? Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual: For Everyone from Beginner to Pro is the book that will put a smile on her face. It's a step by step guide to finding the best makeup colors for every skin type, creating a flawless face for everyday, plus tips for special occasions when you want to turn your look up a notch. The photos make you want to dive right in the pages. Our favorite part is her chapter on Who's Who In Makeup with bios on everyone from Max Factor, Shu Umera Pat McGrath to Laura Mercier.

On Our Radar - New Year's Eve Parties

For those of you who still party it up big on New Year's--and God bless you for trying. Our's always seemed to end up like Martha Plimpton's in 200 Cigarettes--here are a few of the parties we're starting to get whiff of:

Samantha Ronson and girlfriend Lindsay Lohan are hosting a bash at Mansion in Miami. General admission tix start at $200.

DJ AM and Travis Barker are expected to be making their much anticipated first joint appearance post-the tragic North Carolina plane accident at The Lot in L.A. Tix cost $150 with a 5-hour premium open bar.

Denise Richards is the host of the bash at Privé in Las Vegas with tix also starting at $200. If the ex-Mrs. Charlie Sheen is not enough to tempt you, perhaps the open bar from 9 to midnight will.

The Chelsea in Atlantic City is offering a "Night at the 5 New Year's Party" at its 5th Floor club. The DJ has not been announced yet, but consider this is the lounge celeb DJ Paul Sevigny helped design; the odds are good it will be a slamming party. Tickets go for $75 in advance and includes an open bar from 10 pm til 3 am.

Bus Travel East Coast

We're huge fans of the Amtrak between DC and NYC. We prefer it over the airplane (packing restrictions, cab fares, security lines, baggage fees, ugh!); but we've never ridden the bus. In fact the last time we took the bus north was on our way to Canada in high school (but we'll have to share the deets about that in person).

Our biggest concern about the bus is the chance of hitting horrendous traffic up 95. For $20 each way though, that may be a chance worth taking. Daily Candy dished on some fancy new buses that'll whisk you up and down the East Coast for the cost of a tube of lipgloss. Some have reserved seats, wi-fi access, water bottles and movies. We'll let you know who bites first Anne (who's got a couple of home-for-the-holidays trips planned) or Hope (who's promised Livi a trip to the city).

Holiday Gift Guide- DuWop Venom Rocks

We're hooked on lip plumpers after a year or so of laying off them. They make your lips fuller and, if you can get used to the burn, they're addictive. Lip Venom was the original product designed by makeup artists Cristina Bartolucci and Laura DeLuisa on a tv set looking to match that "just kissed" look their actors would get after rehearsing a love scene.

DuWop's Venom Rocks: This trio of limited edition glosses is just the right size for a stocking stuffer and the glosses are so tiny they'd fit in the smallest holiday clutch. We'd buy a few sets and throw them in little velvet pouches to hand out to girlfriends, babysitters, nail techs and hair stylists. The set includes Garnet, Pink Quartz and Amethyst shades. Find Venom Rocks at Sephora for $16.

Sexy Pirates Make Disney Land Unfamily Friendly

We have no idea if this story is true or not, but either way, it’s good for a laugh: According to LA’s KTLA Channel 5, four actors playing Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Carribbean were fired because women kept flashing them late at night. So these sexy swashbucklers had to be let go for their own good. If they’re as good looking as Johnny Depp is we can sorta understand the ladies lapse in judgment.

Holiday Gift Guide - 150 Gifts under $150

An email from Sak’s landed in our inbox today: 150 gifts under $150. Out of all the department stores out there, Sak’s is one of the most beleaguered: its stock has dropped faster than Britney Spear’s neckline. But it’s still our hometown store and we like to support it when we can.

Sak’s isn’t setting the bar too high with gifts under $150 (JSG aims to spend under $50, if not $30 on the majority of our gifts), but they did come up with a handful of goodies. We weeded through the predictable perfume sets, robes and Polos to bring you the best finds.


At $125, you would have to really like your friend or hit the lottery to buy this Kara Ross necklace, or buy it for yourself (ya--we're that kind of Christmas shopper).



We particularly like this Tory Burch makeup bag because it could double as a daytime clutch on your next trip to Cabo and it's marked down from $85 to $51.


Your friend who is into labels will adore this Marc by Marc Jacobs change purse and it will only set you back $68.




Who hasn't wanted a pair of days of the week underwear? This $58 set by Juicy Couture even includes a pair for Sunday--if Meg Ryan had these, Harry and Sally may have never met!



We heart all things Paul Smith. Our BF is not quite metro enough to sport this $135 cashmere blend scarf, which works out just perfectly for us--he won't mind when we borrow it!


For all 150 gifts under $150, go on over to Saks.

Visit Australia

If the movie Australia with all its sweeping views of the Outback and ripped, sweaty, rugged men made you want to move Down Under, you're in luck. Australia and the US have a new "work and holiday agreement" for folks 18-30. What this means for you is that you can stay down under for up to a year and even work -- legally -- for four months.

Annie was all set to pack her bags and move for good after she visited a few years back. Sydney is a mix of all the best parts of a few US cities. It has New York's culture and shopping, San Francisco respect of nature and to die for Asian cuisine and LA's proximity to beaches and other outdoor sports. Not to mention some of the coolest mates a girl could ever hope to meet. Alas, this program wasn't in place and her schedule doesn't allow for a year away from NYC. But you should take advantage of the program and tell us all about it!

For more info, check out the MySydney page on MySpace.com.

Holiday Gift Guide - Gift for the Twilight Fan

JSG was late to joining the Twlight fan club, but now that we're hooked, we can't get enough. Both Hope and Annie finished New Moon last weekend and expect to start Eclipse next weekend. (We can't read them during the week, because they're so absorbing, Hope would forget to pick up the kids at swim class and Annie would miss a deadline.)

What's our gift idea for the Twilight fan who has everything? A lifesize cut out of Robert Pattinson. And what's our gift idea for the Twilight fan who has everything and is over 20? As Twilight fans surely know, Muse featured prominentely on the movie's soundtrack. But did you know that Stephanie Meyer, in her acknoledgements in New Moon, gives a shout out to one of our fave bands, Muse. Specifically she says, "There are emotions, scenes and lot threads in this novel that were born from Muse songs and would not exist without their genius." Wow! That's about as strong and endorsement as the one the Kennedy family gave to Obama pre-election!

We can totally see Edward singing Starlight to Bella: "I will be chasing your starlight to the end of my life." Or the two of them singing togeter from Time is Running Out "I tried to give you up but I'm addicted." So our brilliant gift idea is the Muse Black Holes and Revelations.

Other bands Ms. Meyer gives credit to for "Staving off writer's block" are Coldplay, My Chemical Romance, The Fray, Arcade Fire, Marjorie Fair, Linkin Park and Travis. (It's as if she were tapping into our very own iTunes!). Sounds like a mix CD would be the perfect stocking stuffer!

White + Warren Giveaway!

With all the sales and promos at the stores this season it has been painful not buying something for ourselves. Are you feeling the same pinch? Enter to win this gorgeous Ombre Cashmere Scarf from White + Warren, a $195 value.

We love White + Warren for their soft, luxurious sweaters and throws, and their new leather travel bags. Their website is full of great gift ideas like the Cashmere Travel Set which includes a wrap that's perfect for keeping warm on the plane or to cover up in the evening once you've reached your destination and a cozy pair of cashmere ballet flats.

For a chance to win the cashmere scarf, send us your name, mailing address, and email to jetsetgirls@gmail.com by Monday, December 15th, 2008. Be sure to put "Win a scarf" in the subject line. Just one entry per person please. We'll announce the winner on Tuesday, December 16th. Good luck!

Holiday Gift Guide - Shoes for a Good Cause

When we first heard that Tom's Shoes donates a pair of shoes to a need children whenever one pair is purchased, we had to ask: Really? The answer is yes. For every pair of Tom's shoes that you buy a pair is shipped of to a child in need. So far, at least 10,000 pairs of shoes have been donated to children in Argentina and 50,000 pairs have been donated to kids in South Africa. Wow!

This holiday season, Tom's set the goal of sending 30,000 pairs of shoes to kids in Ethiopia, so start shopping! The slip on shoes are perfect for traveling and will help get you through security lickety split! JSG likes the silver pair best, of course, but you'll find a hue or a pattern for everyone on your list!

My Sephora Mistletoe Makeover

Our email boxes (and yours too surely) are busting with deals. Sephora has some of the best. In fact with some careful shopping, we bet you could find something for almost everyone on your list- men, women, even kids. For example, they're offering free shipping over $50 (no code), free 10 day Bare Minerals sample (code 10DAY), free Givenchy lipstick sample (code GIVENCHYLIP), free gift packaging and free returns among others.

Our favorite: Send your friends a e-card get a free set of lashes or a mini-gloss from Sephora. We might be feeling punchy; but it's hilarious!
Check out JSG Hope's here: My Mistletoe Makeover.

Learn how to create your own holiday looks at Sephora like Holly Jolly pictured above.

Madonna and Louis Vuitton

We thought it was just us, but over the past few days, our friends have been discussing on Facebook the Madonna and Louis Vuitton ads, shot by Stephen Meisel. Basically, while we love Louis Vuitton and photographer Meisel, we're all pretty over Lady M. The discussion started when our friend Jenna changed her status to "Is with heavy heart over Madonna," which prompted friends to ask why. Jenna is disappointed in the Madonna and A-Rod relationship. (JSG is, too. You don't cheat on your husband with a man who is expecting a baby with his wife.) The thread soon moved on to the Louis Vuitton ads. All of us feel that it's time for Madonna to put on a pair of pants. We give the woman credit, she is in phenomenal shape for 50, but at this point -- we know she works out and follows a strict diet, and, guess what, we've known that for the past decade. As a result, the ads feel stale. Madonna--it's time to reinvent yourself. Stop trying to be someone in her 20s and show us what a fabulous 50 year old looks like. Not to mention that outfit makes her look like she's a former circus acrobat on the run.

That slouchy Louis Vuitton bag on the other hand is totally TDF.

Holiday Gift Guide- Sweet Cream Body Milk

We love FarmHouse Fresh's Sweet Cream Body Milk for its amazing silky feel and its light sweet smell; but the glass cruet sets it apart as an excellent hostess gift or Christmas present. A combination of rice bran, avocado, sesame, almond, and jojoba oils left our dry winter skin soft and smooth for hours.

Available at FarmHouse Fresh Goods for $26.

Holiday Gift Guide -Urban Decay Book of Shadow Palettes

The Urban Decay Book of Shadows was our first foray into the world of Urban Decay and surely won't be the last. The intensely colored shadows are not for the shy; names like Mayhem, Baked, Absinthe, Midnight Cowboy and Shakedown tell you exactly what you're getting yourself into. Along with the 16 trouble-making shades (6 of which are exclusive to this palette), you get two brushes, one that is blunt and perfect for applying the deep shadows and a second that is pointed that is ideal for blending, and a small tube of Primer Potion, everyone's favorite eyeshadow primer.

The packaging itself is adorable--it's a pop up book with a mirror. Fairy tales were never this fun when we were kids!

But don't take our word alone for it. As one Sephora reviewer says:

i CRIED for days because i was soooo happy to have this eyeshadow palette!

Available for $45 at Sephora.

Holiday Gift Guide- Noodle & Boo Baby Soap

This French-Milled Baby Soap set is perfect for that little person on your Christmas list. The mom palm sized bars are engraved with "nudie cutie" and "clean bean" and come in a sweet pink and blue gift box. Available for $12 at Noodle & Boo.

While on their site, learn about the Raise Your Hand Campaign- Noodle & Boo's inspiring effort to bring safe drinking water to children in Africa. 100% of profits from the sale of their Believe Honey Bar (below) will go to Raise Your Hand.

Holiday Gift Guide- Smashbox Gift of Glow

This soup-to-nuts set from Smashbox has it all: a sexy neutral gloss in gold, a highlighting powder, a waterproof shadow liner in warm brown named Hollywood with liner brush #30, and a soft Baby Buki powder brush. These colors flatter everyone. Separately the products cost $127; but together they're only $39 and come in a shimmery pink travel pouch. The Gift of Glow is exclusive to Sephora.

Bliss Discount

The discounts keep pouring in--we don't know whether to laugh or cry at this point. The latest is courtesy of Daily Candy: 20% off Bliss products with code DCANDY at checkout. The discount also applies to treatments at the spa Mondays through Wednesdays through this month (at least in the NYC area. We're not sure if the offer is valid in different cities--but it never hurts to ask.) Happy spa-ing!

Pussycat Dolls Lingerie

If the response to Smashbox's Pussycat Doll makeup collection last spring is any indication, the Pussycat Dolls lingerie line, available at (where else?) Bebe and Fred Segal is destined to be a mega hit. The line is designed by head doll, Robin Antin who says she designed the line "For women to feel empowered, strong, feminine, sexy and a little naughty." Sign us up!

Priced from $20 to $98, Pussycat Dolls Lingerie makes a spicy gift for you-- and him!

Art Basel Miami- Wish We Were There

We're sad that we're not in Miami this weekend, partying it up with all the art lovers. But then again--hardly a weekend goes by when we're not sad that we're not in Miami. At least this time around, we can follow the parties, exhibitions and more thanks to the bloggers over at ForYourArt. In truth, it's probably just as well JSG isn't there. For Your Art does a much better job at understanding and appreciating art than we ever could. That photo on the left from a previous Art Basel just has us scratching our pretty little heads.

Holiday Gift Guide - Kate Spade Ski Hat

This Kate Spade hat couldn't capture our sentiments about winter any better. We love the tongue-in-cheek pairing of "Hawaii or Bust" in tropical colors on a classic ski hat. What you can't tell just by looking at this hat, and what makes it an even better gift, is that it was made in cooperation with Women to Women International, an organization that helps women get back on their feet in war torn countries. This delightful little hat was stitched by women in Bosnia and Herzegovina and part of the proceeds from this $115 hat (now marked down to $80) goes to support them.

On Our Radar: India

And on our minds... I've no doubt where I get my wanderlust. My parents have spent years traveling to far away places like Brazil, China, Australia, Egypt and now India. Yesterday my parents left for a two week tour. They never doubted they'd go on their trip even after the Mumbai attacks last week. They simply responded that they weren't going within 1,000 miles of Mumbai anyway. Then on my way home from taking them to the airport, I heard about a shooting at the New Delhi airport, exactly where they're headed. I called them in Chicago on their layover to see if their flight was canceled. My mother said of course not, the shootings were earlier in the morning and everything was fine now.

Here's their message for terrorists: We'll live our lives with courage and not be intimidated.

As for my parents, they're taking a risk; but life's short, isn't it worth it? I can't wait to see India for myself one day.

Natural Anti-Bacterial Wipes

You don't need us to tell you, planes are dirty places. But you can't always wash your hands on a plane when you need to and who knows how clean those bathrooms are anyways? The other option is anti-bacterial gel, but it's not environmentally friendly and you would need a vat of it to get thru a long flight next to a sniffly passenger.

Enter Herban Essentail Eucalyptus Towelettes. We first encountered these wonder wipes at NYC's Sweet Lily Spa during a recent rosemary eucalyptus pedi. Eucalyptus is a natural antiseptic, improves circulation and clears your breathing, as anyone who has spent 5 minutes in a steam room knows. The wipes not only smell good, they also ease a sunburn and help heal insect bites for those of you whose holiday plans include an exotic destination.

Available online at Herban Essential.

How to be a Good Houseguest

Now that we're deep in the holiday season, there's a good chance you'll be a houseguest over the next few weeks. What makes a great house guest? We've been on both sides and here is our advice:

Bring along a fun hostess gift. We loved the idea of bubble bath and champagne from Allure this month. Or last weekend we brought cupcakes from Sensational Bites when we visited our girlfriend, Ula, in Chicago. Yum! Who'd bother (or indulge enough) to buy themselves these tasty treats?

Load the dishes, unload the dishes, and get your own breakfast. The first morning is fun to cook for your guests, the second is harder, the third is downright tedious. If you're the first one up, make a pot of coffee. If you take the last cup from the pot, make another. Help take out the trash. It's amazing how much trash extra people can generate in your house.

Never stay too long. Whether you're at your best friends house or parents', any stay over three nights gets long (remember the adage about fish?). If you're there for longer, be sure to plan outings away from the house and on your own so there's less pressure on your host to entertain you.

Don't leave a mess behind. Definitely make your bed before you leave and consider stripping the bed.

Send a thank you note as soon as you get back!

Holiday Gift Guide - Gossip Girl

You could opt with jewelry or headbands from the show for your favorite Gossip Girl fan, but what we're secretly hoping for is the original books. Specifically the Gossip Girl Boxed Set
of the first three in the Gossip Girl series: Gossip Girl, You Know You Love Me and All I Want is Everything. What's better than reading about the characters we have known and loved for two seasons? There are a few key differences in the book versus the series (no spoilers here. This is off the back of the books):

1. Nate is a major stoner, which makes a whole lot of sense, now that we think about it. Guess some things just don't play well on TV.

2. The Humphreys live on the Upper West Side, not in Dumbo. What would the show be like if instead of all those sweeping views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan it had shots of Zabar's and Fairway? Good call on the director's part.

3. Jenny is described as "busty." Seriously? Can you imagine little Taylor Momsen with a set of double D's?

Sure, it's a little embarrassing going into the bookstore to ask for a "young adult" novel, but we did it for Twilight. And there's always Amazon...

Holiday Gift Guide - Chris Notti Sleep Masks

Trust us: Everyone needs a good sleep mask when they travel. They make napping on the plane easier and are far more stylish than wrapping a blanket around your head. Cris Notti Sleep Masks are our faves, because the band is silky and not too tight so your hair won't get a weird horizontal band around it. They come in a range of styles, from leopard print to kimono prints to basic black.

Art Basel Miami

It may be on track to be a little less of a scene this year, but when is Miami ever not a fun party? Some of the highlights of this year's Art Basel, which runs from December 4 to 7, are parties at the newly opened Mondrian hosted by Jeff Koons and Russel Simmons, a Cartier installation by film director David Lynch and the new Marni store in the Design District, which opened with a soiree last night.

In need of a place to stay or planning a trip later this winter? Check out the New York Post's review of 5 new or redesigned Miami hotels, including the Canyon Ranch and the Fontainebleu.

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show: Get the Look

If those sexy ladies on the Victoria’s Secret Runway Show airing tonight at 10 PM EST on CBS inspire you (and how could they not? Heidi, Karolina, Adriana et al are totally gorge), we’ve got the inside deets on how to get the look.

The theme of tonight’s show is a Return to Glamour. Victoria’s Secret makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury created the sophisticated, yet fresh look using products from the Victoria’s Secret Very Sexy Make-Up collection. Specifically, you’ll notice radiant cheeks, courtesy of Mosaic Bronzer in Goddess, eyes that shimmer and shine, thanks to Silky Eye Shadow in Chills, Mystified, Behind the Sheets and Champagne and sexy lips with a hint of Cupcake and Intimate gloss. All the products are available on Victoria's Secret online.

Want more on the show? Check out our behind the scenes look at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show at the Fountainebleu in Miami. Oh, and that crazy looking bra Heidi has on? Worth a cool $5 mil!

Holiday Gift Guide - Philosopy Party Girl Set

Stick "Party Girl" in front of anything and you've got our attention. And when it's this set of Philosophy pomegranate-scented products, you'll keep it -- and his, too, if you know what we mean. The set comes with pomegranate exfoliating bubbly shower gel, pomegranate shimmer lotion and pomegranate lip shine. The scent is invigorating and all those bubbles are like a disco ball in your shower. The lotion leaves skin glowing for all your revealing holiday frocks. Perfect for your friend who is a non-stop party!

Available at Philosophy.com for $28.

B. Kamins, Chemist Diamond Radiance Facial

I recently had the B. Kamins, Chemist Diamond Radiance Facial at the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C. It's an anti-aging treatment that uses the sparkle of diamonds to reflect light; but also the science of B. Kamins products (think peptides and amino acids) to stimulate collagen growth.

I've visited many Ritz Carlton properties and the Georgetown location stands out from the rest for its uniqueness and intimacy. It's a contemporary luxury boutique hotel housed in an historic Georgetown building; a favorite for visiting celebs (recently for those starring in political thrillers); and rumour has it, it'll be packed for Inauguration with A-listers. I even passed an Oscar winner on my way to the spa.

The Spa at the Ritz is appropriately cozy (not at all like the 27,000 square foot spa at the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island). On a windy, cold November day, it was comforting to wander into the intimate setting, change into my robe and have a cup of tea in the relaxation room.

The Diamond Radiance facial is billed as the "most high-end treatment" offered by B. Kamins to rejuvenate and revitalise your complexion with promises to lift tired skin even in lieu of a face lift. It's geared for mature skin (older than mine perhaps); but it does a great job of exfoliating then moisturizing a younger complexion also. This would be a great facial the day before a high school reunion or even a wedding if you're looking to even out and brighten your skin tone. The most dramatic step in the facial is the Deep-Detox Microstimulator. Sadly, this product is not available for purchase, in fact it's a powder to lotion formula that the aesthetician mixes shortly before applying. It works so strongly, I was advised to not exfoliate for the remainder of the week. The Flower Water Treatment Spray also stood out as refreshing and pleasant. It's the only of B. Kamins products to carry a scent and I found it addictive. I was spritzed between each of the steps in the facial; but it can be used at home before applying your makeup to prep your skin, after applying makeup to set it or anytime to refresh your face and body. The Diamond Radiance facial left my skin soft and glowing for the next three days, and I wouldn't use my favorite tinted moisturizer afterwards for fear it would interfere with my results.

The facial is offered at luxury spas worldwide including Ritz Carlton Spas, Saks Fifth Avenue Spas, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas, and Bliss spas. Remember spa gift cards make excellent holiday presents!

The Flower Water Treatment Spray is available at B Kamins, $36 for 8 oz.

Bobbi Brown Friends and Family Sale 20% Off

Bobbi Brown is having their first ever Friends and Family sale December 2nd and 3rd. Get 20% off your purchase and free shipping with proceeds helping to benefit Bobbi Brown's $10,000 donation to Dress for Success.


Wouldn't this Lip Gloss Trio be perfect for any woman on your gift list? Use the code BFF08A at checkout.

Dubai - A Firsthand Account

A friend of JSG's recently returned from a trip to Dubai. His report: It's not exactly a booming tourist destination. Our friend's exact words: I hate it. I despise it. I love to hate it.

All right-y then. In addition to being humid, our friend says the city is a pit (75 percent of the world's cranes are in Dubai). Because of the strict Muslim laws, there are no bars at street level -- most are hidden inside the hotels -- which means there's zero street life. Women aren't allowed at the beaches, so if you do go, be prepared to stay at your hotel's pool.

The one thing that did impress our friend: the Atlantis, whose opening attracted the likes of Lindsay Lohan, Samantha Ronson and many, many more A-Listers. He said it's spectacular and nearly identical to the one in the Bahamas. On that note, JSG will save our travel time and dollars and head down to the The Cove at Atlantis when we have a desire to walk through a tunnel of fish or dive down a monster water slide.

Gossip Girl Headbands

While we occasionally try to rock out a headband, we don't quite have Blair Waldorf's flair for the accessory. But now that we know one of her secrets, courtesy of Page 6 Magazine, it may be time to give headbands another shot. Sunday's issue featured a profile on Sabrina Bacon (shown left), half of the design team behind Pas Comme les Moutons headbands, a favorite of Blair's and her minions.

Want to know another secret? The headbands are available at NYC's Owl's Lab, which is having a Cyber Monday deal TODAY ONLY. Use code: cyber40 and get 40 percent off the headbands and everything else online.

Holiday Gift Guide - Luggage Tag

The countdown to Christmas is on! If you didn't get all your Christmas shopping done over the past weekend, you're in luck (and if you did--well--showoff!): JSG will be bringing you a gift suggestion a day. We've done our best to keep them all affordable, good values and original. All our gift guide posts will be in red -- just in case you're as fried as we are already from the holiday stress -- we wanted to make it easy. 

First up, is this luggage tag from Tepper Jackson. The bright color means your bag is always easy to spot on the luggage carousel and the irreverent font elevates an otherwise practical item into a fun gift. Available for $15 on Passengers Only.

A Peek Inside Julia Lintern's Carry On

A few weeks back, we shared with you the gorgeous sexy winter coats by Lia Lintern. We loved the story behind the label almost as much as the coats themselves: Designer Julia Lintern is a former aerospace engineer. We asked her to show us what's inside her carry on. (And those sexy winter coats? You can save 15 percent with the code LIA-HOL-08 at checkout.)


I think that traveling light is one of life's greatest pleasures... My bag is Alexander McQueen's "Flapper Satchel" in ruby crocodile. (JSG note: Bargain hunters, the bag is now $1,299, marked down from $2,170. A lot, we know, but an incredible price for this timeless bag.)



A friend with beautiful skin once told me that she used L'Occitane Radiance Cream - I must have misheard her because I actually put olive oil on my skin that night..Then I realized what she was talking about..I just love this line!



My experience is the airline industry has taught me that you lose over 4 oz of water per hour! (that's just nearly one of those miniature water bottles they give you on board).. So I carry my own feminine Sigg canteen wherever I go...I just make sure to fill it at the nearest water fountain before I get on board.



My Music: I'm always in the mood for Jose Gonzalez!


I'm currently reading Madame Bovary (Penguin Classics) by Flaubert. It's a beautiful, if not heart-breaking, novel and a great way to escape those interim hours in the airport!