Best Bra Fit Tips

In the fitting room women often tell me that bras are uncomfortable and have the idea that “that’s just the way it is”.  That is not true!  A properly fitted bra should leave you feeling supported and comfortable without necessarily being conscious of wearing a bra even one with underwire.  

Here are a few tips for your next bra-shopping trip:

1. The Sizing Numbers aren't everything
In a bra size of 36D, for example, the number "36" represents the band size and is based on the measurement around your ribcage under your bust- directly where your breasts meet your ribcage.  But someone can go up, down an inch from their measurement.  The letter “D” represents the volume of the cup or the amount of breast tissue the cup can hold.  Many women don't realize that the number and the letter are proportionate, so that a 32D for example represents a COMPLETELY different breast volume than a 36D.


2. The breast should be contained
Breasts should be encased in the cups and not spilling out the side, top or bottom of the cup.  If the entire breast is lifted and contained in a well-fitting bra, irritation will be avoided.

The dreaded Quad Boob from overspilling is not attractive

A good fit is shown here.  See how the band is snug around the ribcage and all the breast tissue is in the cup.

3. Support is NOT from the straps
The support in a well-fitted bra always comes from the band, not the straps.  If your breasts look “saggy” even with a bra on, and your breasts are completely encased in the cups, try going down a band size (for example from 36 to 34) and up a cup size (for example from D to DD) INSTEAD of tightening the shoulder straps as far as they will go.  I’ve seen women with deep shoulder grooves caused by carrying the weight of their breasts on their shoulders instead of distributed around their ribcage as it would be in a well-fitted bra.  A good rule of thumb is to take your straps off and raise your hands above your head.  If the band isn't secure and snug, then it is too big.

Sagging, gaping cups are a poor fit

4. Breast Position
In a well-fitted bra your breasts should sit about mid-way between your shoulder and your elbow, with the nipple in line with your bicep.  If, with a bra on, your breasts are tending more towards your elbows than your biceps it's time to ditch that bra!

Saggy breasts or compressed ones from sports bras will change your shape and can even make you look heavier.
breakout bras.com

5. Underwire is your friend
Women of all ages complain about underwired bras and in most instances the cause of the discomfort is the same – the bra does not fit well.  In a well-fitting underwired bra the underwire should rest on your ribcage, not on breast tissue.  Also, the underwire should not press into your skin or cause pain at any point but should feel pretty snug which takes some getting used to if you have been wearing a bra size that is too big.  As a woman ages or in women with larger breasts, underwired bras will provide more lift, support and shaping than a soft bra can.  A seamed or 3 paneled bra also offers superior support than a molded or seamless cup.  It takes some getting used to for clients because the breast is more conical in shape which is actually more natural.

6. It should be a Hell Yeah!
When trying on a bra take a moment to be sure it is comfortable.  Raise your arms – the band should stay in place and not shift position.  Make sure there are no uncomfortable points because over the course of a long day that discomfort can be exaggerated. Put on your top and make you are happy with the profile the bra is giving you under clothing.  I always tell my clients that your bra should feel like a "Hell yeah" and you should walk away with something that feels and looks good.

Wall Candy Printables - I need this!!

Get the Look...{Shhh...there's wine in here}

Shhh....There's wine in here! by krista-allmond-montalvo featuring Simone Perele

A night-in all by myself is rare occasion in my household.  But when I get one or a night at home alone with my man,  I love a sexy, comfy look.  Throw on that old band t-shirt or one of his button down shirts.  My lingerie pick is the soft cup Caressence bra (non-underwire) and boy short which are infused with aloe vera making them oh so soft!

Grab your bottle of wine.  I like to drink mine in a coffee mug and a good Chick Flick!

Telluride Holiday Pop-Up Market

I've always been the kind of person to create my own future instead of waiting on the other guy.  After moving to Telluride and starting my own lingerie business, I have had to get a little creative when it comes to promoting my business since I don't have a store front.  I noticed that in Telluride there was a lack of expos for small businesses and a lack of opportunities for us little businesses to get our name out there at a small fee. So, I decided to just create my own thing for all of us out there.  And even for stores to have a little promotional booth.  I'm also so excited at the tremendous response that I have gotten.  It was definitely a HUGE need. I hope to do many more Pop-Up style shows in the future at all types of locations - big and small.  

If you would like to join us or know someone who would like to participate, just go to www.mymarmie.com and go under the top tab POP-UP.  There is the vendor info and app.

Why Simone Perele Lingerie is my passion & first collection

Marmie's first collection is from Simone Perele.  I chose this line for my first one because it was right in line with my personal style and my mission to empower women.  The sophistication and elegance in each piece is world renowned.  The comfort and fit is the best in the industry.  I also love my area representative who has made this process a breeze and is super knowledgeable.  All of these factors help me give all of you a top notch product that I am extremely passionate about and give you a personable experience tailored just to your needs.  And what's so cool is that I come to you in the comfort of your own home!

Simone Perele's Curvy Model Search Winner

I read a review of Simone Perele line of lingerie that is the perfect description of their line.

"Simone Pérèle’s collection infuses timeless grace and elegance in a tribute to all things sweet. Guipure lace inspired by the dentelle à gateaux (doily), matte thread in honor of the artistry of spun sugar, and carefully chosen hues reflect a delicate, irresistible palette of temptation." -girlsguidetoparis.com

A little history about Simone Perele:

"Simone Pérèle was actually a corset maker for the elite of France. She became tired, however of trying to fit women (sucking in, pulling up, tugging, etc.) into these corsets. She wanted the woman to be liberated; to feel comfortable in HER skin and not feel as if she has to conform to what others want or think is beautiful. She wanted the woman to embrace every curve or in some cases, lack thereof, of her body. Her passion was to help women feel beautiful, confident, inspired, bold, to love their body and their spirit. Her way of doing this was to create beautiful pieces of lingerie."
-Laura, a Simone Perele representative

Simone Perele and her husband

“A woman should not have to choose between being comfortable and being beautiful? she can have it all.” 

- Simone Pérèle

Her daughter is still the head of the company and here is a great interview with her. Click HERE.

Catherine Perele with models wearing Simone Perele

"When a women looks at herself in profile wearing a bra, her bust must go up, never down. A good bra is something you forget you are wearing; you don't feel the straps, there is no pain, your breasts must look round and natural. And, a good bra always exudes good taste, according to Perele. The titillating and tacky are best left to others. There is a difference between being sexy and elegant. The Simone Perele woman values sophistication above being too showy." - Catherine Perele

I am so thrilled to offer to women in our country a product that enhances your figure, supports your "girls" and boosts your confidence while at the same time being comfortable.  It's a concept that I never knew existed until I tried on bras from Paris designers.  I experienced my own "life changing" experience that I want to share with all of you.  Are you ready to finally have the perfect bra?

My Services:

• My services are free!  It is my goal to find you the perfect fitting bra.  
• I carry several styles in sizes 32A-40F.  
• I can personalize specialty sizes by letting you see the styles that I carry and then we can visit and decide together which bras would work the best for you.  I will then order your sizes on my next order so I can add it to my inventory if it isn't your perfect fit.  
• After deciding which bra size, style and color is going to be your match made in heaven, I will order your lingerie.  Orders can be hand delivered or mailed to you.  
• I also would love to make a wish list for you then it is so easy for your husband to get you a gift.
• Parties are a great way to have a fun day or evening with your girlfriends.  Plus, hostess awards are the best way to get more lingerie at amazing prices.  Check out how many Free Garments you can get when you have a party. ------------>  Click HERE

***And Don't forget to follow on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest & Twitter).  I will be doing all types of great giveaways and promotions on there.  Right now, I have a HUGE giveaway.  $400 Lingerie Drawer Makeover.  You and a girlfriend need some pampering!  It's so easy to enter.  And GUYS you can totally enter for two special ladies in your life. Click Giveaway Photo Below To Enter and for Details!!

Link

Music Festival Fashion

Telluride Bluegrass has come and gone this year.  Town is hustling and bustling to clean up after the massive droves of hippies came through town in the last week.  Fashion is always a notable thing at any festival.  Telluride's festivals are on the top of the festival wear list.  You can see traditional hippie look, skanky wear, practically naked, the typical blue jean look, Halloween costumes, the preppy country club attire, the easy comfy clothes, etc.......

Or this guy:

You have to see the close up of his tattoo (hilarious):

Plus, on top of your fashion statement you have to prepare yourself for all types of weather!  I am looking forward to my music festival in July - The Ride Festival.  It's a new festival with this being the third year.  I love this one because the weather is a little more dependable in July plus it doesn't have crazy crowds to deal with.  I loved going to the first year where we got to see The Lumineers bring down the house before they were very popular.  Here we are in 2012 - the first year with our great friends!

I was thinking of my own fashion statement for this year's festival.  I want an outfit that is a little sexy ~ but still comfy ~ kinda classy ~ with a little funk. Something that I can pull leggings underneath and throw on an oversized sweater when the sun goes down.

Here's my Pick:

I have a sweet hat but I am always in the market for a new one ;)  I plan to make this dress below.  I just ordered some viscose/spandex fabric in black and sea foam green (leaning towards the green).  I definitely have a necklace that I can wear down my back.  I have my vintage cowgirl boots that look similar to the ones below.  I have a sweater that will work but I really love the H&M striped sweater below.  I might even throw on a fun brooch on my hat too.

Now, I just have to figure out Day Two's Outfit!

Music Festival Outfit by krista-allmond-montalvo on Polyvore

Asymmetrical Pixie Styles

I have been growing my uber short pixie cut into a longer asymmetrical pixie style.  I am loving have more of a frame around my face plus it's a little more versatile as far as styling.  I like challenging myself by cutting all my hair off.  This has been the third time that I have done this.  It's a great way to unnerve yourself as well as realizing that your beauty and sense of self doesn't lay in your mane of hair.

Here are some ways that I have been wearing my asymmetrical pixie these days.  I also want to thank my fabulous hairstylist, Lauren who has made this all possible!  xoxo

I love to wear a scarf or my braided hairband.  See it from this post.  I start with a long scarf at the back of my head then criss cross it the front and tie it in the back.  I like to off center the twist since my hair is also off-centered.  I tuck in the tails of the scarf under the sides.  This is great to add color and not worry with bed head.

This is my every day style.  I blow dry it straight with my fingers and no product.  I use a straightening iron to tame my curls.  Then, I finish it with a really thick wax product to keep it in place.

Sometimes, I just can't tame my curls and I don't want to.  I love having that beach look.  I diffuse it and still use the straightening iron to help with some stubborn fly aways.  I finish it with lighter gel that holds but not too thick.

This is the last look that I have been doing.  I style it just like I did above when wearing it straight except for when I straighten it, I flip it out.  I like this edgy look.  It goes great with certain outfits like leather or heels!

There you have it!  Some great ways to wear and style your asymmetrical pixie.  I get asked a lot about having short hair and thick hair.  Yes, it is possible to have a short style that isn't poofy or too frizzy.  First, you have to have a great stylist and second, you have to try on new looks with different products until you figure out just how you like it.  I always say it's just hair.  So have fun and challenge yourself to a new look!

Learning the art of Sashiko

I'm all ready to Teach!

On Fridays we typically do something fun and social for Homeschool.  This past Friday I hosted some other friends and homeschooled kids to learn about Sashiko.

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Sashiko is the Japanese art of embroidery.  It actually means tiny stitches or little stabs.  It was a way for the poor farmers and fishermen of Japan to be able to quilt clothing with little scraps of fabric together to create something warm to wear.  They traditionally dyed their fabrics in indigo which is derived from the indigo shrub that is native there.  The leaves were picked and fermented until a rich blue color appeared.  Indigo is also a natural bug repellent which came in handy.  They would dye their fabrics then stitch them together with white thread to create the most beautiful coats.  Each family started to become known for certain stitching styles.  Also a lot of the stitching patterns were indicative to their surroundings which included shells and the ocean.

traditional sashiko patterns

It has become a lost art due to the sewing factory industry there.  There is still one culture that is still primitive and making their own clothes on Sado Island.  It is a group of elderly women log haulers who climb up the side of the mountain, cut down trees and haul them down.  How incredible is that?

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After learning about the History of Sashiko and where Japan was on the globe.  We all studied my inspiration board on Pinterest.  Check it out HERE.

We all had something that we were going to learn on.  Some people brought little cloth bags, hand towels or jeans.  They all picked out the color thread that they wanted, and I helped them thread the needle and tie a knot.  We used big embroidery needles.  Traditionally, a sashiko needle is large with a flat point to work your way through heavier materials.

I decided to work on my scruffy boyfriend jeans.  I still want to add some more detail work and maybe even some scrap denim to patch on and stitch.  The sky is the limit and you can create so many things with this idea.  I have a lot of ideas on my Pinterest board.  I really like the idea of doing your phone cover, and I also saw a sashiko satchel that is so cool.  I am going to do a bag for the summer soon.  It has been on my craft To Do List for quite some time.  I am going to patch work and embroider my bag and then use some old leather belts as the handles.  

More Ways to Style a Pixie Haircut

I'm transitioning my pixie cut into an asymmetrical one like these (HERE and HERE).  In the meantime I have found another way to start styling with accessories.

I got a braided hairband that I use when I am having a fly away hair day.  I have really thick wavy hair with a lot of volume so it can be challenging to get my hair not to be so puffy looking.  I can let my hair dry natural or use a diffuser to get a little body and curl.  I then slip on my braided headband and tuck in pieces here and there to give it a messy, tossed look.  I love these custom pieces from a crafter on Etsy at Puppycatmeow.  But you can also buy them at little jewelry/accessory stores in the mall like Claire's.

One other styling tip that I have for all of you that have short and thick hair like me is a snug woolie hat.  After I blow-dry and flat iron my hair, I always pull on a cap to help flatten out the volume.  It looks in the moisture and gives my hair a little more of a demure look.  If I decide to wear a hat in the winter, I always like to leave my hair peaking out so I don't look like I'm bald.

Hot Spring Trend: Tangerine Lipstick

I am loving the new spring trend of tangerine lipstick.  It's like a twist on the classy red lips.  I think it's the perfect color for spring.  Match it with pinks and lavenders and limes.  I think it will give anyone a pop of color.  If you are worried about your coloring, just make sure you get the right shade for you.  Make sure the rest of your face is more toned down in earthy shades so you don't end up looking like the 80's.

Brunettes: pick one with red undertones

Blonds: pick a more peachy/melon shade

Red Heads: don't do a matte and wear blush so you don't look washed out

Dark Hair & Skin: pick one with more blue undertones and glossy looks good on you

Great Guide to some fabulous orange lipsticks to buy

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Here are some links to some fabulous fashions that would look amazing with this new spring color:

Tribal and Technicolor

Mixing colors

All Black

Dress Up Simple Neutrals

Polka dots are still in

How about some funky lavender hair

Even everyday style

Getting Sized Up By a Professional Bra Stylist.

I surprised Andy for Christmas this year with a little mini trip to Scottsdale over the Christmas Holiday. It was just what we needed for some rejuvenation in the warm desert sun.  We played some golf, slept, slept some more, laid by the pool, ate amazing food and did some shopping at the infamous Fashion Square Mall.  We didn't even cover 1/3 of the mall because it's THAT enormous.  Plus, we didn't want to waste all our cocktail pool time away since it was such a short trip.

The only place that I knew that I had to go was to Intimacy.  It is a high end lingerie store that has professional bra fitting stylists there.  I have always wanted to be professionally measured for my bras.  I am an odd size so it's really hard to find a good fitting bra here on the western slope due to the lack of stores.  I have heard tons of awesome things about a store like this in Denver called Sol.  Sol even has seamstress that can turn any bra into a nursing bra or repair underwires - you name it!  I haven't had a chance to get there so I figured that Scottsdale was my best bet of finding something similar.

It took me a little time to find Intimacy and there isn't a whole lot to see when you are in the store because most of the goods are tucked away in all those drawers in the back.

It was such a lovely experience!  My stylist greeted me and led me into my dressing room.  She asked me what size that I thought I was and any issues that I have with my fit and my breasts.  Then, she looked at the bra fit and size that I was currently wearing to gauge which bras that she would bring back for me to try on.

She helped me try about 10 bras total and exchanged any for sizing for me to try again.  She was very discreet and helpful about the whole shirtless thing.  But I am about the least modest person ever so I didn't have any issues with it to begin with.  

Here are some pointers that I learned:

1) Your bra back band is the most important fit because it supports everything.  It should sit really low and never ride up in the back.  Here is a guide to see.

2) Your bra straps shouldn't be able to lift more than 2" from the top of your shoulder when pulled upwards.

3)  Always get a bra that is hooked on the loosest notch when buying because bras stretch out over time.

4)  When putting on your bra, you should bend over a little and pull your breast tissue from under your arm and side inside the cup.  Then lift and separate them in the front into each cup.

5) The more seams that a cup has on the bra means the more support it has.  Anyone with a cup larger than a C should steer clear of bras without any seams.

There were about 5 bras that I really liked the fit and style.  All the bras are top notch and a little pricey.  But I think it's totally worth it!  They range in price from $80ish - $150ish.  They recommend getting two so you can spread out the wear on them.  Intimacy averages 5-7 years of life from the bras if you have more than one, if you don't wash them with detergent with alcohol which destroys the elastic over time, and if you hang dry them.  

My bra issues are that I am a size 32 D which is not a common size.  Since I have nursed three children, they refer to breasts as "soft" which is a nice word for deflated!  haha  Therefore, I have trouble with my breasts staying inside my cup.  I picked my top favorite two that could last me until I could splurge for a third.  I picked out a red lace bra that fits just perfect.  Red lingerie is the {New} Nude.  It's barely visible under white and looks so cute peeking under any dress!  It holds all my breast tissue in, supports, is pretty and doesn't cut across my breast in the front.  It also has extra seams and panels in the cup so it really pushes my breasts up without any padding.  I also got a nude one that has lace detail around the band and shoulder straps.  It has a soft padded cup to give that nice contour under a tee shirt.  It also holds in all my breast tissue without cutting across my breasts in the front.  Both bras are also hypo-allergenic which means all the elastic is coated in aloe vera which is really cool!

My stylist got all my info stored away and now I can call and order based on my last fitting!  Next time I am going to get a black one.  I already have it picked out in their system too.  

I highly highly highly recommend doing this for yourself Ladies!  It is a free service that they offer and is well worth the splurge for yourself.  It changed the way my clothes looks, and it just feels good to wear something that fits well and is so pretty!  

I would love to have a stylist come here for a trunk show.  I am working on it so if I am able to coax one to come to Montrose - I will let everyone know!  

New Years {Stay In} Outfit

New Years Stay In Outfit by krista-allmond-montalvo featuring Mossimo

I'm staying in this New Years with my family.  We're going to play games, eat finger foods and drink some wine & sparkling grapefruit cocktails.  I want to look festive but be comfortable.  I decided that I would throw on a yellow scarf for my bling.  If you have a sparkly yellow one that would be even better.

Happy New Years Y'all

Have you heard of Etip iPhone Ski Gloves?

My mom got for Christmas from her husband some Etip gloves from North Face.  They have conductive fingertips so you can answer your touch screen phones without having to take off your gloves.  How cool is that?  I had never even heard of them before.

You can get everyday type of gloves or ski ones.  I would want ski ones because it is such a hassle taking them off on the lift or when you are skiing.  Here are the ski ones that I want below.

They are a pretty penny too for $120.  

SO, I thought couldn't I find some conductive material and sew it on my own gloves.

And YEP, you can do so easy yourself.

Here's a DIY video:

Here's another DIY tutorial with sites that sell conductive thread :

I can't wait to get my gloves hooked up!

A Handmade Giveaway for a {New} Marmie

I am so excited to finally make almost all the changes to my blog.  Since I have been in the process of creating a simpler family life, it has brought me to a new place with Marmie too.  I am not going to focus on resale of Marmie but instead creating things for my family and friends and sharing them with you.  I may give away things to you all here and there but overall I love having my blog as a creative outlet that's just for me.

I have been thinking for days about my new design and what it would look like.  I dreamed about using Georgia's artwork, including a bluebird and some yellow somehow.  The background of the letters for Marmie is one of my favorite pieces of art that she whipped up one afternoon with some scraps of trash.    I wanted to use a bluebird because it's my reminder that I use to keep me grounded and full of gratitude.  Every time I see one, I tell myself that I am exactly where I ought to be and life is beautiful.  Yellow is just a color that makes me happy.  Andy always tells me that I am solar powered.  It's so true.  I don't think I could survive outside of sunny Colorado!

In honor and celebration of my new focus and me listening to my inner self.  I am promoting my new[ness] with a great big giveaway.  Each week during Christmas I will list another awesome handmade gift by me that will complete a whole ensemble.  I will also throw in some other yummy goodies from my kitchen and maybe some cool stuff from some other local artisan. 

All the ways to get more entries are listed via Rafflecopter and through my Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest accounts.  And HERE on my blog of course!

There are so many ways to win!  Please share the word about the New Marmie.

1)  The first gift is a Yarn bombed Antler long necklace in shades of purple on a vintage block chain in gold with a hand stamped Coloradolove charm.

2) The second gift is a loose, arm-knitted color block (black/oatmeal) infinity scarf in a soft wool blend chunky yarn.

3)  The third gift is a one size fits all Tunic Sweater.  It is a loose, sheer knit with a metallic sheen.  The burgundy and black stripes are perfect for the Holidays.  It has tapered edges on the sides on the bottom.

4)  The last gift is a pair of Seattle Grey Knit Travel Pants.  Super comfy and soft knit with a fold over yoga waistband.  They are a size S/M.  Great for lounging in the house, traveling or wearing out & about.  A wide leg gives that flounce when you walk and the forgiving sizing makes them an easy fit.

Enter to win HERE:  
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Gift Ideas for Womanly Things: *coming from the girl who wanted an over-the-door ironing board at age 9

I've never been the type of girl who ever wanted fufu girl stuff, but I always wanted quality over quantity.  I also have always loved a thing to do instead of an actual wrapped present.  Here are some highlights of some of my favorite Christmas gifts as a child:  

Horse Jumps, a horse, a sheep, a stand-up mixer, a guitar, a piano, an ironing board & iron, an antique cabinet, bathroom sink faucets, a typewriter

This list makes me chuckle.  Gotta love some sink faucets for Christmas (good one Mama, wink wink)!!

Here are some gift ideas for women for the men who I KNOW are procrastinating until next week to figure out what they are getting.  Yeah, it's okay just make it something thoughtful and something that shows you actually read this blog to find out a cool gift idea.  A woman can tell when you run into the store and yell wrap it up and the girl isn't even sure what you are referring to!  Yes, Andy has done something similar in years past.  I hope he takes the time to read this post.  He gives great gifts though when he thinks about it.

Marmie's Gift Guide 2013 for a Lady

* My beloved KitchenAid mixer finally bit the dust.  It was my first Mother's Day gift from my husband, Andy, and I used it all the time.  Once I started making bread, it just couldn't handle the workload and the motor burnt out pretty fast.  I started reading lots of reviews, and I am ready to own a Bosch Mixer.  I really love this review from Topsy Turvy.  They sell the 800 Watt Bosch at our new local store called Straw Hat Farm Store.

* I love making bread.  I started and feed my own sourdough starter.  Read about how to start your own HERE.  I would love to be able to grind my own flour with this beautiful wooden grain grinder from Nutrimill.  These are also for sale at Straw Hat Farm Store mentioned above.

* I really want some linen sheets.  I think that they will be really warm in the winter and super cool in the summer.  Who doesn't love an all-season product?  Plus sheets are a gift you can both enjoy.  I am a big fan of Eileen Fisher and here are her line at Garnet Hill.  Here's a good write up about them from A Cup of JO.

* Since I live in Colorado, you can never have too many coats.  This year I have been eyeing an affordable shearling coat.  Here is a good choice at an affordable price from MinkPink.  

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And Here's the $$$ one that I want!!

* A trip is always a good idea.  Here are some of my picks:  a rustic cabin in the woods or on a lake, Napa, Seattle, Paris is always a good idea or even several nights in with the kids somewhere else (make sure you plan big on this one fellas)!!  A trip to a big city for the day just to find the perfect pair of jeans for her.  That would be a pretty big deal and you would be a HERO!

* I like good, quality things.  Madewell always comes through with things that I like that are just awesome and last forever.  Plaid and Flannel are really "in" right now and are timeless.  Here are my plaid picks from there: gotta love a classic flannel plaid shirt, yum! a plaid blazer, sweet tartan pants my dear.

* Sweaters are commonplace unless it's a super nice one that she would never buy for herself unless of course she talks herself into deserving it.  I want a camel cashmere sweater that I can pair with my knee length black leather skirt.  Sounds delicious doesn't it like a caramel mocha?  

Love this one from Zara

* A really good book.  I love historical fiction.  I also love to dive into a book that takes you to a new place with new friends.  I am just starting the trilogy Chocolat by Joanne Harris.  Buy all three (Chocolat, The Girl with No Shadow & Peaches for Father Francis) then also get the movie Chocolat with a box of really exquisite truffles.

* A steamy photo session from your local photographer.  I recommend Jayna Rosentreter here in Montrose, CO.  Here are some ideas for you:

See more photo ideas HERE

* A good, classy & sexy outfit for a night on the town.  You should rent a tux and get tickets to something.  Head down to your local boutique that she loves to shop at and they will hook you up!  Here in Montrose, CO: SheShe Boutique & Pollux Clothing Company.

the dress:  I love Vivienne Westwood.

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the undies: I am digging the lace high waisted.  Reminds me of a pin up girl.

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 the shoes: You can't go wrong with Jimmy Choo.  You can skip the jewels if you go this route!

Jimmy Choo Anvil

the bag: A little evening bag is just the finishing touch except for Diamonds.  I have been loving the color burgundy.  A vintage bag that you got from her mother or grandmother would be perfect.

Vintage Crocodile Gucci Evening Bag

Well, there's my list for you guys!  Hope you have a fabulous Christmas this year.  But remember, a great gift is a THOUGHTFUL gift even if it's just a coupon book of fun things.  

Oh yeah and here's something awesome for you to sign on the Christmas card HERE or HERE or this Good ONE or this one would melt my heart or a funny one.