All I Want For Christmas (2008) . . .

It's that time of year again!!! It’s the time where we get to make Christmas lists for all the material things we desire, while we also rack our brains trying to think of the most thoughtful gifts for all the important people in our lives.

In the past, making a Christmas list didn't seem so hard. If somebody asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I could spatter a list of things that I "WANTED." However, time and people change. Now, I can only think about the things I "NEED." I have become somewhat of a minimalist in my 26 years of life. When I think about "THINGS", it overwhelms me. I can't help but think about if the economy were to completely fall apart and how I would ultimately be affected. I would end up in a compromising position, which would (unfortunately) demand me to lose any kind of ability to sustain a normal life. In that hypothetical world, I would probably end up packing up all my belongings and move to Costa Rica. Okay, now this is where the overwhelming part comes in . . . would I really need, "THINGS" if I moved to Costa Rica? NO!!! Therefore, I am trying to weed out all the unnecessary things in my life and possess only things that I really need or consistently use.

My Christmas list this year is very reflective of my "necessity driven" lifestyle. Now, remember, I will still include fun, frilly stuff (i.e. Juicy Couture socks), because that is something that I use everyday. Necessity . . . YEAH! :D

1) ALDO “Eneida” Ballerina Flat


Unfortunately I work in an office where I am expected to dress somewhat professionally on a day-to-day basis. My idea of a perfect job would be to work at home in my sweats (freelance) on my computer doing web-design, etc. However, since I don't have that dream job, I need comfortable shoes for walking back and forth through the press room everyday, so I need a nice pair of classic, comfortable, well-made, black, leather, ballerina flats.

You can find ALDO shoes in most department stores in California, however, for you out-of-town shoppers, you can visit ALDO's website at http://www.aldoshoes.com/

Here are the details:
What: ALDO “Eneida” Ballerina Flat
Color: Black
Size: 38 (US8)
Item #: DCS: 11-04-01
Unit Price: $60.00


2) Puma Shoes


I need some basic, casual shoes.

The shoes pictured above can be found at www.finishline.com

Here are the details:
What: Puma Speed Cat SD (women's)
Color: Brown/Pink
Size: 8.5 (US)
Item #: 30136114 GPK
Unit Price: $74.99


3) Banana Republic Cotton Fitted Long-Sleeve Shirt


I need classic shirts for work. This one is a good example (white, button-up, not too constricting, and long-lasting). This shirt can be worn with any color/kind of dress pant. The only thing I need to emphasize here is I work at a printing company, so I don't need anything too trendy, just basic and classic.

The shirt pictured above can be found at any Banana Republic free-standing store or by visiting bananarepublic.com.

Here are the details:
What: Banana Republic Cotton Fitted Long-Sleeve Shirt
Color: White
Size: Small
Style #: 587864
Unit Price: $49.00


4) Banana Republic Cardigan


I feel like such an old(y) asking for a cardigan, but it is a great staple item to have for work, dinner, etc. I don't necessarily need a cardigan from Banana Republic, but I found this one and it's a nice "illustration."

The cardigan pictured above can be found at any Banana Republic free-standing store or by visiting bananarepublic.com. However, again, cardigans can really be found anywhere (it just needs to be a nice quality - so it lasts a long time).

Here are the details:
What: Banana Republic Merino Wool Long Cardigan
Color: Black (but I would love to have a black AND cream cardigan)
Size: Small
Item #: 608362
Unit Price: $79.00


5) Banana Republic Button Pencil Skirt


I won't get into my long-winded description regarding quality, etc. I just need skirts for work (pencil skirts with corresponding tops, etc).

The pencil skirt pictured above can be found at any Banana Republic free-standing store or by visiting bananarepublic.com.

Here are the details:
What: Banana Republic Button Pencil Skirt
Color: Black
Size: 6
Item #: 606626
Unit Price: $59.00


6) Banana Republic Funnel-Neck Dress


I like this dress for work, because it is simple, classic, and looks comfortable (easy to move in).

The dress pictured above can be found at any Banana Republic free-standing store or by visiting bananarepublic.com.

Here are the details:
What: Banana Republic Funnel-Neck Dress
Color: Black Combo
Size: 6
Item #: 606473
Unit Price: $150.00

7) Messenger Bag


I have looked everywhere for the perfect messenger bag and I still can't find it. The above picture is NOT what I am looking for, but I wanted to add some kind of picture to illustrate some specific aspects. For instance, I need it to be sling obviously (over my body), and army green or dirty beige, kind of beat-up looking. It's hard to explain, but who knows, you may run across something.

Here are the details:
What: Messenger Style Bag
Color: Army Green / Browns
Size: Medium to Large
Item #: N/A
Unit Price: N/A


8) Victoria's Secret PINK


I am still a big fan of the Victoria's Secret "PINK" line. I have worn all my VS Pink stuff to death. I love the entire VS PINK line, so I would be happy with any PINK pants (specifically), but I like the entire combo pictured above (the comfy pants, with the matching top and the comfy slippers). I actually do need a good pair of slippers.



You can find the VS PINK line at victoriassecret.com or at any Victoria's Secret freestanding store.

Here are the details:
What: Foldover-Waist Sweats
Color: 815-polor cobalt (I don't have any blue, so blue would be a fun change) :-)
Size: Small
Item #: 231-898
Unit Price: $28.50

AND

What: I Heart Nature Top
Color: 078 (Blue)
Size: Small or Medium
Item #: #231-657
Unit Price: $24.50

AND

What: Furry Slipper
Color: 084 Navy Suede
Size: Medium
Item #: #231-947
Unit Price: $29.50


9) Tube Socks


Love tube socks!!!

The above picture illustrates some tube socks that I found at victoriassecret.com

Here are the details:
What: Sporty Tube Socks
Color: ANY FUN COLORS :-)
Size: One Size
Item #: 235-402
Unit Price: $14.50


10) UGG Boots


Another one of my staples . . . UGGS!!!

Okay, yes I understand that I already have UGGs, but they are all pretty worn down, as I seriously wear them everyday. I understand that UGGs are expensive, but they are totally worth it. Literally, I could not live without them.

My most recent pair (purchased in 2006) are ultra tall, brown. I LOVE, LOVE the tall ones. If it were possible, I would love to have a new pair of ultra tall chocolate, light brown, and black - but that would be like a thousand dollars - so I am fine with any color (as long as they are tall).

NOTE: I found these UGGs at victoriassecret.com, but you can purchase UGGS in most department stores or surf shops.

Here are the details:
What: Ultimate Tall Braid Boot
Color #1: 028 - Chocolate
Color #2: 093 - Black
Color #3: 341 - Chestnut
Size: 8.5
Item #: 227-834
Unit Price: $200.00


11) Starbucks Gift Card


Unit Price: Any Amount


KEEP CHECKING OUT MY BLOG FOR UPDATES!!!!!

12) Franklin Covey Tote


I need a tote to carry my planner and additional work accessories. I chose Franklin Covey, because FC creates career oriented products. Franklin Covey produces great quality products at a reasonable cost. I like this tote, because it is very basic.

Franklin Covey is probably best purchased by visiting website at http://www.franklincovey.com

Here are the details:
What: Franklin Covey Park City Tote
Color: Black
Size: Standard Size Tote
Item #: 35065
Unit Price: $129.00

13) COMING SOON
14) COMING SOON
15) COMING SOON


Okay, I had to add a couple unrealistic gifts just for FUN! :D

1) Bengal and Pug




I honestly don't think it is possible for me to have any children right now, but someday I will get Francy and Chi-Chi-La-Rue. I really want them to grow up together.

Here are the details:
What: Bengal Cat & Pug
Bengal Color: Glitter
Pug Color: Fawn (basically brown with black face)
Size: Babies
Unit Price: N/A

3) Louis Vuitton (Messenger PM Bosphore) Bag

If I could choose any designer bag, this is the one I would choose. I like it because it is the traditional Louis Vuitton design, but in a messenger bag style. I love bags that I can wrap over my shoulder and body.

Only purchase at the official Louis Vuitton website or store

Here are the details:
What: Louis Vuitton (Messenger PM Bosphore) Bag
Color: Monogram Canvas
Size: PM (2.8" x 8.6" x 9.8")
Unit Price: $740.00

P.S. My list is basically a reiteration of last year's blog. I guess I am a creature of habit! :-)

Happy Shopping!!!!
Ashley :D

All I Want For Christmas IS . . .

I would not describe myself as someone who is overly interested in material things. However, I love receiving gifts as much as the next person. Well, actually the reason for this blog is because my mom asks us every year to send her our Christmas list. Therefore, to streamline the process and make every ones holiday shopping that much easier, I have created a blog which illustrates "everything" that I would like for Christmas.

1) Prescriptives 'Moonbeam' Reflective Gloss

I absolutely LOVE this stuff. I discovered this particular lip gloss when I was in Iowa for my sister's wedding. I went to get my make-up done at their department store, which I believe is called "Bonkers" or something like that. No, I am being completely serious here folks. It might not have been called Bonkers, but it was something very similar. Anyway, I got my make-up done at the Prescriptives make-up counter and totally fell in love. There is one slight problem though! :0 The first color I purchased was called, "Twinkle," but I can't find that color anymore. I can't tell you the name of the color I currently have, because the label fell off. However, I am pretty certain that the color I like is "Planetary."

You can find Prescriptives lip gloss at department stores, such as Nordstroms or Bonkers. Prescriptives also has thier own website, which is http://www.prescriptives.com/

Here are the details:
What: Prescriptives 'Moonbeam' Reflective Gloss
Color: Planetary
Size: One Size
Item #: 127515
Unit Price: $17.50

2) Victoria's Secret Savoy Terry Short Robe

I really want a robe. I particularly want this one, because it is cute, made out of terry (so you know it has to be super soft), and it is a great length. I really, really want this!

You can find this robe at victoriassecret.com or at Victoria's Secret freestanding stores

Here are the details:
What: Victoria's Secret Savoy Terry Short Robe
Color: H06-Sugar Pink
Size: Medium
Item #: 176-961
Unit Price: $39.50

3) Tube Socks

I am not going to get super specific here, because I am sure there are a lot of brands that make great tube socks. The only characteristics that I "MUST" have in my tube socks are:
-They must be tall (knee length)
-They must be somewhat thick (they need to keep my feet warm)
-They must have some kind of cute design/details.

I have a pair of Juicy Couture tube socks that I love. They are super thick, tall, and cute. The above picture illustrates some tube socks that I found at victoriassecret.com that I think are pretty cute! :)

The tube socks pictured above can be found at victoriassecret.com

Here are the details:
What: Athletic Socks
Color: 746-Grey A Lister and/or 092-White Parties
Size: One Size
Item #: 216-908
Unit Price: $9.50

4) Victoria's Secret Pink Pants



Victoria's Secret "PINK" line is great. I like it, because I can wear it around the house when people are over, wear it to bed, and even wear it when I crawl out of bed to go get coffee in the morning. It is totally versatile and super cute.

You can find these pants at victoriassecret.com or at any Victoria's Secret freestanding store

Here are the details:
What: The Signature Sweats
Color: F-31 Love Pink Rear Gear
Size: Medium
Item #: 202-731
Unit Price: $38.50
OR
What: Long Sweatshort
Color: U26 Prep School Blue
Size: Medium
Item #: 213-466
Unit Price: $32.50

5) UGG Boots

Okay, yes I understand that I already have UGGs. I actually have three pairs now. I have two short pairs (sand and brown). The sand ones were given to me as a hand-me-down from Christel. I purchased the brown ones over two years ago and I still wear them (even though they are a bit worn). I recently got an ultra tall, brown pair as a gift from work. I LOVE, LOVE the tall ones. I understand that UGGs are expensive, but they are totally worth it. I wear mine at least once every day. Literally, I could not live without them.

NOTE: I found these UGGs at victoriassecret.com, but you can purchase them in most department stores or surf shops.

Here are the details:
What: Ultra Tall UGG Boots
Color: Cognac, Sand, Brown, or Black (I think I should go with black this time, since I have never had a black pair) - yez, yez! :D
Size: 8
Item #: 213-423
Unit Price: $200.00

6) Massage

I could literally spend all day, every day, at a spa. I LOVE massages and the whole spa experience.

The best and most convenient spa is Los Angeles is Burke Williams. You can purchase gift certificates at burkewilliamsspa.com

Here are the details:
What: Burke Williams Gift Certificate
Unit Price: Any amount

7) Hanes Tank-Tops



I probably wear a long tunic of some sort at least once everyday. I only like to wear shirts that sufficiently cover my waist. I usually wear a long tank under blazers or layer it under any top that is not long enough. My favorite tunic tanks are made by Marciano, but they are a bit expensive. I have been extremely happy with Hanes tanks. However, purchasing Hanes tanks is very specific. The tanks must be purchased from the adolescent boys section in XL.

The best way to purchase these tanks is at www.hanes.com and then clicking on the boys section. You can go to Wal-Mart, Target, etc, but they almost never have XL tanks in the boys section.

Here are the details:
What: Hanes - Boys Tagless Tanks
Color: Mostly White/ Some Black
Size: Boys XL
Unit Price (W): $10.00 (pkg of 3)
Unite Price (B/G): $5.00 (pkg of 2)

8a) Arbonne Intelligence Daily Cleanser

My sister used to sell this product line. I was given some samples and I was very pleased. However, I was using Aveda products at the time, so I didn't purchase the line. I am now in need of a cleanser, balancer, and moisturizer restock and thought I would give Arbonne a chance.

You can find Arbonne products at www.arbonne.com or by visiting your local sales representative

Here are the details:
What: Arbonne Intelligence Daily Cleanser
Item #: 486
Unit Price: $22.50

8b) Arbonne Intelligence Daily Balancer


You can find Arbonne products at www.arbonne.com or by visiting your local sales representative

Here are the details:
What: Arbonne Intelligence Daily Balancer
Item #: 487
Unit Price: $22.50

8c) Arbonne Intelligence Daily Moisturizer


You can find Arbonne products at www.arbonne.com or by visiting your local sales representative

Here are the details:
What: Arbonne Intelligence Daily Moisturizer
Item #: 490
Unit Price: $38.50

9) MAC Black Eyeliner

I think it is pretty obvious that I really, really like eye make-up (eyeliner particularly)! :) I am pretty partial to MAC's eyeliner because it is soooo black and creates a really great line.

MAC make-up can be found in many mall locations or by visiting maccosmetics.com

Here are the details:
What: MAC Liner Eye Pencil
Color: Ebony
Size: One Size
Item #: N/A
Unit Price: $12.50

10) Starbucks Gift Card

You can't go wrong with a Starbucks gift card. In fact, I can't think of many people that would object to a free coffee.

Details:
Unit Price: As much as your heart desires! :D

11) Blow-Dryer w/ Diffuser

I decided that I want to be like my big sister and have curly hair, so I need a blow-dryer with a diffuser to make it curly. Also, the blow-dryer that I currently have is about to end its life! YIKES!

Hair dryer w/ diffuser can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Target, or at any hair supply store

Here are the details:
What: Vidal Sassoon Fast Dry Turbo Hairdryer w/ Diffuser-VS505
Color: Black or Grey
Size: Small/Medium
Unit Price: $17.99

12) Boucle Cowlneck Tunic Sweater

I like this sweater a lot, because it is long. I think it would look great with a pair of black tights and tall, black UGG boots! :)

This sweater can be found at victoriassecret.com

Here are the details:
What: Boucle Cowlneck Tunic Sweater
Color: Heather Grey (79q)
Size: Small/Medium
Unit Price: $48.00

13) Marciano Biana Active Tunic

This is one of the only reasons why I miss working for Guess (FREE CLOTHES). Although, I didn't particularly "love" a lot of Guess' clothes, they did have a few great staple items. In fact, they have some of the best staple tunics that I have ever owned. I like this top, because I know what the fabric feels like (it is stretchy and soft) and the tunic is very long (they way I like them) and it can be worn alone or layered.

This tunic can be found at marciano.com

Here are the details:
What: Marciano Biana Active Tunic
Color: Black
Size: Small
Style #: PMF12225
Unit Price: $118.00

14) Marciano Daria Puff Sleeve Bodysuit

This would be a great top for work. I have the black Marciano pants she is wearing, so with the top I can complete the outfit. One thing I like about this top is that it is classy and nice for work, but it doesn't look uncomfortable. I do not like shirts that are short or are tight around the armpit area.

This bodysuit can be found at marciano.com

Here are the details:
What: Marciano Daria Puff Sleeve Bodysuit
Color: FRSA
Size: Small
Style #: PM7H1181
Unit Price: $108.00

15) Express Dolman Sweater Dress


I like this, because it can be worn as a dress, over jeans, over tights, ect. It is very versatile.

This sweater dress can be found at www.expressfashion.com

Here are the details:
What: Express Dolman Sweater Dress
Color Code: 3 (cream)
Size: Small
Style #: 4626
Unit Price: $69.50

16) Express Hooded Marled Sweater Coat

I need a good sweater jacket. I don't have one anymore and I am always cold! brrrr!!!!

This sweater can be found at www.expressfashion.com

Here are the details:
What: Express Hooded Marled Sweater Coat
Color Code: 98 (grey/black)
Size: Medium
Style #: 4482
Unit Price: $79.50

17) Express Embellished Ribbed Tank

This isn't a must have item, but I thought it was cute for going out (even though I never go out), but if I were to go out, I might wear this top. hehe! :)

This tank can be found at www.expressfashion.com

Here are the details:
What: Express Embellished Ribbed Tank
Color Code: 898 (purples)
Size: Small
Style #: 6642
Unit Price: $39.50

18) Express Long Sleeve Essential Shirt

What an appropriate title. Yes, this shirt is an essential! I know it seems boring, but it is a great staple item. I purchased this same exact shirt when I first moved out to LA and it is a great shirt for the office. The one I have is getting kind of shabby!

This shirt can be found at www.expressfashion.com

Here are the details:
What: Express Long Sleeve Essential Shirt
Color Code: 1 (white)
Size: Small
Style #: 4780
Unit Price: $44.50

19) Buckle Daytrip Tunic Sweater

This is just a cute sweater.

This sweater can be found at www.buckle.com or at Buckle retail store locations

Here are the details:
What: Buckle Daytrip Tunic Sweater
Color: Dark Green Gold
Size: Medium
Style #: 85450T3606B
Unit Price: $29.50

20) Buckle Freshwear Striped Skirt

This skirt is great for winter, fall, spring, or summer. I can think of a million ways to wear this skirt!

This skirt can be found at www.buckle.com or at Buckle retail store locations

Here are the details:
What: Buckle Freshwear Striped Skirt
Color: Navy
Size: 5
Style #: 35505D7AG039K
Unit Price: $26.00

KEEP CHECKING OUT MY BLOG FOR UPDATES!!!!!

21) COMING SOON
22) COMING SOON
23) COMING SOON
24) COMING SOON
25) COMING SOON

Okay, I had to add a couple unrealistic gifts just for FUN! :D

1) Pug

I have wanted a pug for many, many years now. I have already named him. His name is Francy! Francy would love to have a black sister, but he is fine with getting all of the attention right now!

Here are the details:
What: Pug
Color: Fawn (basically brown with black face)
Size: Small
Unit Price: N/A

2) Chanel Sunglasses

I really want a great pair of sunglasses. They do not necessarily have to be Chanel or this particular style, but I would like them to be a nice style and fit!

Chanel shades are sold at most fine eye wear shops. This particular model may have to be ordered.

Here are the details:
What: Chanel Sunglasses
Color: Black (Color Code: 12787)
Size: One Size
Item #: 4155Q
Unit Price: $329.99

3) Louis Vuitton (Messenger PM Bosphore) Bag

If I could choose any designer bag, this is the one I would choose. I like it because it is the traditional Louis Vuitton design, but in a messenger bag style. I love bags that I can wrap over my shoulder and body!

Only purchase at the official Louis Vuitton website or store

Here are the details:
What: Louis Vuitton (Messenger PM Bosphore) Bag
Color: Monogram Canvas
Size: PM (2.8" x 8.6" x 9.8")
Unit Price: $740.00

Happy Shopping!!!!
Ciao, Cioa!
Ashley a.k.a. Chewpe