Valentine’s Gift Guide: For the Person You Plan to Marry

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

That flying diapered baby with the bow and arrow already got to you two, so how are you going to spoil the one you love this Valentine’s Day?

By Sarah Jones

For a man or a woman:

Romance Package at Lansdowne Resort
Create memories, get pampered and escape away together to Lansdowne Resort near Leesburg. A special package is available for couples Feb. 1-28, including: overnight accommodations, a $100 dining credit, champagne and chocolate truffles upon arrival, complimentary valet parking and late checkout (3 p.m.). / Lansdowne Resort, 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne: 703-729-8400 or 877-509-8400; www.lansdowneresort.com; $259 per night.

www.tenthousandvillages.com

Handmade Unity Candleholder
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”-Buddha (Again, nicely said, Buddha) Declare your unity with your sweetie through the loveliest of lights with this beautiful candleholder handmade by artisans in Kenya. / Ten Thousand Villages, multiple NoVA locations; www.tenthousandvillages.com; $20.

For him:

bloomingdales.com

Gucci Aviators
Tell him that together, you’ve got it made in the shade. / Bloomingdales, 8100 Tysons Corner Center, McLean; www.bloomingdales.com; $295.

www.giftflight.com

Fighter Command WWII Fighter Flights
Want to really make your soul mate melt? Let your man be Maverick. Give him the gift of flight in a WWII biplane, in which he doesn’t have to just be a bystander. / 615 Airport Road, Suite 211, Winchester; www.giftflight.com; $195-$795.

For her:

www.shopbloomers.com

Underwear from Bloomers
Want to make your lady love feel really special every day? Give her lingerie that she actually wants to wear every day: unmentionables that are gorgeous and comfortable from brands like Eberjey, Hanky Panky, Juicy Couture and more. / Bloomers, 924 King St., Alexandria; 571-312-0852; prices vary.

Courtesy of Le Tache (Photo: Sarah Jones)

‘Sarah’ Lingerie Set
If big celebrations are in your future, perhaps this lingerie set could take care of the fireworks. Pink and black never looked sexier. / Le Tache, 210 King St., Alexandria; 703-299-8430; Bra $43.95; Garter Belt $43.95; Thong $27.95.

Courtesy of Rolex

Rolex Datejust 31mm in Everose, Gold and Steel
The perfect gift for the timeless lady you don’t want to “just date.” Liljenquist & Beckstead The Watch Store, 1798 M Tysons Galleria, 2001 International Drive, McLean; 703-448-6731; www.liljenquist.com; $9,525.

Cas Boutique & Design Studio Opens in McLean

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, February 7th, 2011

www.casboutique.com

A self-proclaimed shopaholic, Maggie Burgess was addicted to fashion and clothes. She remembers the time when her husband approached her because she had spent $10,000 on clothing in one month. “I was like, ‘That can’t be; that must be a mistake. Someone must have stolen my credit card,’” Burgess explains. However, after sitting down with her husband and going through the statements, Burgess was faced with the truth: She was a compulsive shopper. “I realized I was addicted to the art [of fashion],” recalls Burgess. After that moment, she decided that she needed to work in fashion.

Burgess decided to open a boutique. At first she sold other designers’ clothes; however, eventually she realized that she didn’t really like the clothes she was selling. Believing that she could make her own, better, clothes, Burgess started sketching designs. Soon, she hired a seamstress, and other workers, and opened Cas Boutique in Gainesville, where she sells her unique designs. The boutique does not mass-produce her clothes; just a handful of her designs are produced and sold.

Burgess was living her version of the American dream, but it did not stop at just one store. She later opened a boutique in her native country, the Dominican Republic, and just last Friday, Feb. 4, opened her own design studio, in McLean.

Burgess designs custom clothing for all women and enjoys bringing out their best. When we caught up with her at the McLean open house, she explained her approach: “I try and find good [things to say] about every woman. They always want to tell me something bad about themselves, but I have to stop them.”

This is a designer who gets to know her clients. She sits and chats at length with every woman who enlists her expertise. Burgess asks about their likes and dislikes, not only in fashion, but also inquires about other interests in their personal lives. She gets to know the entire person in order to design the perfect outfit.

Michelle Dorsey, a client of Burgess who attended the opening, confirmed Burgess’ approach. Burgess designed Dorsey’s gown for her 40th birthday celebration. “From the first moment Maggie just tried to figure out who I am, what I really wanted do, what was it really about, what does it really mean to me,” says Dorsey.

Burgess designs clothes for all figures—even the models for Cas are real customers, not paid models—and tries to accommodate any budget. Ready to have her custom design something special for your closet? Visit Cas Boutique at 7555 Somerset Crossing Drive in Gainesville or at the new Cas Boutique Design Studio at 6706 Whittier Ave. in McLean. Appointments with the designer can be made by calling 703-754-6116.

–Amanda Millward

*Amount spent in one month corrected on 2/18/11 from previously reported $1,000.

Valentine’s Gift Guide: For Your Long-Distance Love

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, February 7th, 2011

Spending Valentine’s Day away from your special someone? Even if you aren’t able to experience the holiday with the person you love, assure them of your devotion with these unique ideas. These gifts are sure to communicate an emotional declaration of just how much you desire to be together.

By Shannon McNeely

www.williamarthur.com

Fine Stationary
Embrace the lost art of writing love letters. Send your long-distance love engraved stationary, and express your Valentine’s Day hopes and desires. Available in numerous styles, colors and designs. / Multiple NoVA locations; www.thedandelionpatch.com; prices vary.

www.gifts.com

Valentine Cookie Bouquet
This edible arrangement of delicious, heart-shaped cookies is a tasty gift to send off to your special valentine. Each cookie is baked fresh and hand-decorated with tasty icing. The bouquet includes seven delectable cookies. / www.gifts.com; $59.95.

www.universityflowershop.com

“Be My Love” Flower Bouquet
A bestseller, this elaborate array of red roses, carnations, white lilies and chrysanthemums are sure to let a distant lover know that she is deeply cherished. Arranged in a red glass vase, this is a flowery frenzy that will not easily disappoint. / University Flower Shop, 9848 A Main St,. Fairfax; 703-591-1410; www.universityflowershop.com; $42.95.

www.PersonalizationMall.com

“Just the Two of Us” Personalized Picture Frame
Send a favorite memory, and remind your long-distance love of how much he/she is missed. This unique design flaunts you and your special one’s names, along with heart graphics on a beautiful wooden frame. @ www.personalizationmall.com; $19.75.

www.amazon.com

Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910 with 1080p Video
There’s nothing like spending time with your sweetie in person, but for those times when it’s just not possible, this high-definition Web cam provides the next best thing. Being far away from your sweetie doesn’t mean you have to forgo face time (in focus). / www.amazon.com; $71.99.

Valentine’s Gift Guide: For the Friend Who Hates V-Day

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, February 4th, 2011

“While I was there I happened to notice you had circled some ads in the paper. Don’t bother calling the guy in the second column. I can tell you right now it won’t work out. That guy is me.” —Contributed by Pat Patel in Reader’s Digest

By Sarah Jones

classicsandcountry.com

Small Photo Frame – ‘Friends’ – 6″ Square
Make Valentine’s Day a little more likable with a picture of you and your friend in a frame like this one from Classics and Country. / Classics and Country, 217 King St., Alexandria; 866-766-2601; www.classsicsandcountry.com; $14.95.

www.tenthousandvillages.com

Red Lotus Lapitz Flower Candleholder
“As a lotus flower is born in water, grows in water and rises out of water to stand above it unsoiled … “- Buddha Nicely said. / Ten Thousand Villages, multiple NoVA locations; www.tenthousandvillages.com; $28.

www.shoplamuse.com

Kathy Bransfield ‘Ghandi Ivy’ Necklace
Remind your friend of just how special he/she makes this world by simply existing because he/she is the change you want to see in the world. / La Muse, 108 N. Patrick St., Alexandria; 703-683-1696; www.shoplamuse.com; 703-683-1696; $69.

www.truly-life.com

Lotion Bars
Everyone loves being pampered, and your friend is sure to feel rested and relaxed after massaging one of these lotion bars over his/her skin. Available in Lavender, Lilac Breeze, Sandalwood Kiss and Plain Sensitive. / Old Town Farmers Market (open Saturdays 6:30-11 a.m.; 703-371-6802; www.truly-life.com; $4.50.

Courtesy of Le Tache (Sarah Jones)

Packaged Assortment of Lotions and Body Scrubs
This is a lovely assortment of body scrub and lotions—some edible! Talk about a gift that does double duty! / Le Tache, 210 King St., Alexandria; 703-299-8430; www.letache.com; $36.95-$49.95.

What’s one way to get your best guy bud to stop hating Valentine’s Day? Get him one of these babies:

Chopard Alfa Romeo Mili Milgia GT XL Limited Edition
Class, pure class. / Liljenquist & Beckstead: The Watch Store, 1798 M Tysons Galleria, 2001 International Drive, McLean; 703-448-6731; www.liljenquist.com; $7,000. (Ask for Kennera Melanson or Joe Turchiarolo)

Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M with Shark-Proof Mesh Brace
He can stand up to sharks in the boardroom and at the beaches. / Liljenquist & Beckstead: The Watch Store, 1798 M Tysons Galleria, 2001 International Drive, McLean; 703-448-6731; www.liljenquist.com; $4,350. (Ask for Kennera Melanson or Joe Turchiarolo)

For more Valentine’s Day gift ideas, click here.

Store Parties, Open Houses & Openings, Oh My!

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, February 4th, 2011

Menemsha, $240 (Meg Carter Designs)

Hello there, shoppers! Happy Friday!

Lots of exciting news for you today! Whew, where to begin?! First, with the freshness …

Don’t let anybody say that February is without virtue. For starters, tomorrow is the practically legendary Old Town Boutique District Warehouse Sale in Alexandria! And fashionistas, you’d better prepare for lots of retail cardio over the next few days because that’s only the beginning. (And I thought my Verizon  iPhone order was the only thing to get stoked about this week. Well, that and Crystal Couture.)

Saturday also brings an open house at the shawls and accessories store Swan Ways in Arlington from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. where there will be plenty of spring inventory to explore, bubbly to sip and refreshments to enjoy. The day also promises at Au Domaine in Alexandria, not far from the Warehouse Sale, a Wine & Dine Quetzal Jewelry Debut from 2-5 p.m., offering a chance to meet the designer behind the jewels as well as to sip champagne and other fine European wines. Plus, there will be a debut special; buy a necklace, receive a free pair of gemstone and vermeil or sterling silver earrings.

And, today from 11 a.m.-5-8 p.m. is an open house at the new CAS Boutique in McLean (6706 Whittier Ave., Suite 200), featuring the one-of-a-kind creations of Maggie Burgess (expect a wrap-up from Amanda Millward on Monday). Be sure to stop by and check out some of Burgess’ recent designs.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. Periwinkle and The Dandelion Patch (Reston) will keep you busy and celebrating next week, too, with shopping soirees planned for the 10th and 8th, respectively. More on that later.

PPS. Fellas, if our daily Valentine’s Gift Guides aren’t enough, check out the jewelry of local designer extraordinaire Meg Carter – always sure to please!

Shopping Simplified: Sleekhair.com

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

Hello there, shoppers! When it comes to keeping your coif looking fabulous, do you struggle making purchasing decisions thanks to the differences between your beauty brain and your budget? Not for long. Talk about Shopping Simplified: sleekhair.com–where while not everything is at the lowest prices you’ll find online, various products from 100 top-notch salon brands are at up to 70 percent off retail every single day.

That’s products from Kerastase, Bumble and Bumble, Goldwell and more. Seriously. And not just hair products … you’ll also find deals on nail products from OPI, skincare products from brands like Murad and even hair accessories like flatirons.

The site also offers rewards points, to be used for savings toward future purchases, just for writing reviews.

Happy shopping!

-Natalie Kaar

PS. Get your Verizon iPhone ordered?

PPS. Don’t miss today’s Specialicious deal at one of NoVA’s BEST RESTAURANTS and our daily Valentine’s Day Gift Guides!

Valentine’s Gift Guide: For The Person You’ve Been Dating Forever

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

Do you find yourself struggling to find fresh and exhilarating gifts for the person you’ve been with for what-seems-like a lifetime? This Valentine’s Day, don’t fall into the same old dull routine. Instead, heat things up with these four stimulating gift ideas that are sure to generate some passion and a new spin on your long-term relationship.

By Shannon McNeely

www.mystiquejewelers.com

Pink Tourmaline Earrings
This Valentine’s Day, show her you still care, and give her something she is sure to love. These earrings flaunt a semi-precious, pink stone; a color that is completely appropriate for this month’s special celebration of love. / Mystique Jewelers, 211 The Strand Waterfront, Old Town Alexandria; 703-836-1401; www.mystiquejewelers.com; $820.

www.funromanticgifts.com

Body Oil Message Kit
Pamper the one you cherish with this do-it-yourself message therapy kit. The exotic massage creams will envelope the senses, and the miniature tea lights are sure to enhance the romantic mood. The kit also includes a small massage guide and hand-held back massager. / www.funromanticgifts.com; $14.95.

gifts.redenvelope.com

Get Lucky Dice
Rekindle the flame, and have some naughty fun. These pewter dice are inscribed with parts of the body, scandalous actions, and parts of speech to give you, and your long-term love, a reminder that time together should be anything but boring. / www.redenvelope.com; $34.95.

www.sendapantygram.com

Panty Gram
Get his head swirling with this intimate little keepsake. Have these red, heart-shaped panties sent on Valentine’s Day, along with your own personal message. This gift is guaranteed to be the one that is not quickly forgotten. / www.sendapantygram.com; $24.95.

Style Report: Bells, Bells, Bells

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011

I’d say it’s time for a Destiny’s Child reunion. But forget, bills, bills, bills; enter bells, bells, bells. Fashionistas, unless the snow has scrapped your fashion mag subscriptions and cut off your Internet, you know bell bottoms are back. So, what do you think of the 70s calling again? Ready to rock them fierce  like Farrah?!

If so, here are some of the best of the bunch, just waiting to be scooped up:

J Brand "Love Story" Flare Bell Bottom Jeans (Bloomingdales)

Paige Denim "Lou Lou Tulip" Jeans (shopbop.com)

7 for All Mankind "Bell Bottom Super Flare" (7 for All Mankind)

William Rast "Belle Flare" Jeans (Piperlime)

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. As for tops to wear with these, Piperlime has a fantastic selection of complementary cuties!

Valentine’s Gift Guide: For the One You Want to Date

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011

Roses are red, violets are blue, and if you drop a hint for the one you like this Valentine’s Day, maybe cupid will chip in a little help too.

www.tenthousandvillages.com

Radiant Ribbons Scarf
Keep your crush warm with a thoughtful gift. Let them wrap up in this handmade, hand-dyed scarf, and know that you have given back to the worldwide community. / Ten Thousand Villages, 915 King St., Alexandria; 703-684-1435; www.tenthousandvillages.com; $34.

www.shoptreat.com

Rebecca Minkoff Matinee Satchel w/ gold dot foldback
Most ladies probably don’t own a red purse, but she’ll be sure to thank you when she receives one wrapped in a bow. / Treat, 103 S. Saint Asaph St., Alexandria; 703-535-3294; www.shoptreat.com; $385.

www.tenthousandvillages.com

Melt My Heart Candle or Cinnamon Pillar Candle
“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” – Buddha We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. / Ten Thousand Villages, 915 King St., Alexandria; 703-684-1435; www.tenthousandvillages.com; $12/each.

www.etsy.com

Custom Recycled Vinyl LP Album Journal Notebook Sketchbook
A customized notebook made with his/her favorite vinyl is sure to show the writer, musician or sketch artist in your life how well you know him/her. / Sande Edwards, Arlington; www.sandeedwards.com; $15.00.

www.tenthousandvillages.com

Cotton Messenger Bag
It’s not a murse, and it’s not a purse; it’s a messenger bag and any guy or gal would rock it well. / Ten Thousand Villages, 915 King St., Alexandria; 703-684-1435; www.tenthousandvillages.com; $38.

www.letache.com (Photo: Sarah Jones)

Edible Candles and Packaged Assortment of Lotions and Body Scrubs
Share a gift and hope they get the hint. / Le Tache, 210 King St., Alexandria; 703-299-8430; www.letache.com; $21.95/candles, $36.95-$49.95/lotions and body scrubs.

–Sarah Jones

For more Valentine’s Day gift ideas, click here.

Shopping Simplified: iShoes and iBags

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, February 1st, 2011

(Apple)

While mega shopping sites like zappos.com and department stores sites like saks.com each have their own tempting selections of shoes and bags, you still have to jump from site to site to explore the full bounty of beauties available. Well,  that used to be the case before sites like shopstyle.com — and two very cool, free, iPhone apps that allow you to hold the world of shoes or the world of bags in the palm of your hand: iShoes and iBags.

Through iShoes, explore over  50,000 pairs, and through iBags, over 20,000 bags (both powered by shopstyle) — either randomly or via your style/brand preferences. Create wish lists and purchase directly from your phone with just a few simple clicks.

Just don’t blame me when you start ignoring those chores of yours.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar