If you’re anything like me, you have a brother (or two, or…god help you, three), and every year it’s pretty impossible to figure out what to get them for Hanukkah or Christmas. You slide subtle hints into IM conversations, use your parents for help, even flat out ask them “what the hell do you need??!”, but sometimes to The Bro is so illusive, you just want to slam some money down in front of him and shout get your own present!!

Coming in at a close second in the gift-giving challenge is the BF. Sure, you love him. Sure, he knows you better than most people. But finding a gift he’ll like because it’s cool, and not just because you’re his girlfriend? Tough.

In case you haven’t reached your breaking point yet (I know Hanukkah is almost over, but there’s still time!), I’m compiled a list of presents the Bro and the Beau might like. It’s always hard to tell with these strange specimens, but hey, even if they scrunch their face up again this year…at least you tried. Besides, they’re been giving you shit from The Body Shop for years. Teach them through example about branching out.

• Charles & Marie Dosh Wallet ($60) – compact, manly, and oh-so-full of special pockets, this wallet is a lot better than that ratty, duct-taped thing he’s been carrying around for years. It’s a little expensive, but just think of it as payback for that time you stuck gum in your Bro’s hair or ‘accidentally’ told your friends about the Beau’s bedroom ‘issues’.

• Dakine Plaid Backpack ($59.50) – it’s really hard to hate on a backpack, especially one that’s so nondescript and cool. Plus, he can carry his laptop and snowboard / skateboard around wherever he goes. Read More »

I cannot stand being cold.

As soon as the temperature gets any lower than 60 degrees I start piling on the layers and planning ways to keep my core temperature up. When it comes to bundling up to go outside, I have no shame.

I’ll wear scarves that don’t match my coat. I’ll wear a hat that flattens my hair. I’ll wear ski gloves with a peacoat. I don’t care.

I’d rather sweat than shiver.

But now, I don’t have to be ugly to be comfortable, because long sleeved gloves are back!

This isn’t to say I’m blindly following trends here, but the resurgence means retailers will be carrying these beauties! Whether they be wool, cotton, rayon or synthetic…doesn’t matter. Itchiness doesn’t matter when it’s negative 4000 degrees outside.

And? Now my wardrobe can go farther!

Have a short sleeved or 3/4 length jacket that’s perfect for the season? Wear it! Your gloves will have your back (and arms).

Ah, I love when trends multi-task.