KATIE KENNEDY - Page 26 of 249 -

Holiday Gift Guide: Luxury Pieces

December 5, 2023

Holiday Gift Guide: Luxury Pieces
📍 Norwalk, CT

Holiday Season, gift guide, Christmas, nice list, luxury, shopping

This holiday season, elevate your gift-giving experience with this curated gift guide to luxury pieces. From timeless ballet flats to opulent cashmere sweaters, each handpicked item exudes elegance and craftsmanship. Explore the epitome of style and sophistication, ensuring your loved ones receive a gift that transcends the ordinary.

Dutch Oven || Lipstick Set || Coupe Glasses || Tea Cup Set || Cashmere Sweater || French Girl Sunglasses || Pearl Earrings || Coffee Table Book || Designer Bag || Espresso Machine ||
Chic Ballet Flats || A Signature Scent

Dutch Oven

With the colder season here, I have a long list of soup and stew recipes that I’m dying to try. Many of them recommend having a Dutch oven in your kitchen just for the task. This enameled Dutch oven by Le Creuset is dishwasher safe, meaning it moves from prep to cooking to cleanup without a hitch. They come in a rainbow of colors and are seriously a work of art. You’ll want to keep it out on display long after the dishes have been put away.

Lipstick Set

The holidays are the best time of the year to try out new perfumes and beauty items. Some of my favorite brands come out with gift sets that perfect under the Christmas tree. This lipstick set from Christian Dior comes with four swoon-worthy colors and a crossbow carrying case so you can bring the little beauties on the go. Which color do you think you’d wear the most often?

Coupe Glasses

Founder and owner of Estelle Colored Glasses, Stephanie, is inspired by her grandma, who loved antiquing throughout South Carolina. From stemware to cake stands, her glass pieces are absolutely stunning and come in a rainbow of colors. It seems like a loving nod to dinner parties from years ago when the tablescape was everything. I can’t decide between the wine glasses or the champagne coupes.

Tea Cup Set

Lettuceware of any variety was a hot item in Palm Beach, Florida, during the 1960s. There’s something so fun and whimsical about them. For whatever reason, it gives me visions of a tea party from Alice in Wonderland. This cup and saucer set from Tory Burch is perfect to start a collection. Be sure to include your favorite flavor of tea bags for a complete gift.

Cashmere Sweater

Is there anything more luxurious than cashmere? It’s a splurge that I’ve become more comfortable with taking because the warmth and feel is truly a step beyond. Honestly, these cashmere socks from J. Crew are packed and ready for my winter trip to Vermont and Montreal. To start a cashmere collection, start with the classic, like this black crew sweater, also from J. Crew.

French Girl Sunglasses

Recently, my Instagram has been flooded with quintessential French girl chic. It’s been so inspirational and I can see my daily wardrobe start to make a transition over. A common item that I see throughout is this pair of Celine sunglasses. I’m obsessed! They have a certain piece of vintage inspiration, but are still modern and be worn daily. Santa baby, I would love to see these under the tree!

Pearl Earrings

Classic pearl earrings are a staple in my life. Nearly every morning, I slip them in and instantly feel put together. I can promise you that they will never go out of style. These David Yurman Earrings are my absolute favorite! By taking simple measures, they will be a family heirloom and look forward to passing down for generations. In the meantime, I can happily wear them and feel my best!

Coffee Table Book

Coffee table books are such a luxury. They can dress up a living room and act as a source of inspiration, and not much else. I still love splurging on them for some serious eye candy! Assouline Publishing makes some of the most stunning books out there, especially their travel collection. James Bond Destinations is dedicated to the cities from your favorite Bond movies to inspire a lifetime of future travel.

Designer Bag

The Jackie bag from Gucci gets its name from my ultimate style icon, Jackie Kennedy. I’m so happy that Gucci brought back this classic bag, but still gave it a few updates for the 21st century. This piece will find all of your essentials while you’re running errands around town and still looks refined enough for date night or a blacktop affair.

Espresso Machine

Recently, I had a conversation about what my “rich life” is. What are things that I love spending money on in my everyday life? One of those things for me is an excellent cup of coffee. I wish I could begin every day at a European cafe with a coffee and pastry. Since that’s just not in the cards for me right now, the next best thing is to have that coffee, at least. SMEG appliances always look incredible with their vintage-inspired design, and this Espresso Machine would look so great in my kitchen! Trip to Italy sold separately.

Chic Ballet Flats

Indulge in timeless elegance with Chanel Ballet Flats, an epitome of luxury and sophistication. Crafted with precision and adorned with the iconic interlocking Cs, these flats seamlessly blend comfort and style. The comfort piece rings particularly true, seeing as I wear my flats constantly while in the city. A perfect addition to any wardrobe, they embody the essence of a classic and cherished holiday gift.

A Signature Scent

Last year, I received a mini bottle of Jo Malone’s Lime Basil and Mandarin perfume in a sample kit. I’ve been obsessed ever since. It’s such a unique scent and I’ve been happy to take it on as my signature. I’ve always had a penchant for citrus-y fragrances, but the savory notes from the basil make this a show stopper. I always get compliment when I wear it out because curious minds want to know where my perfume came from.

Love from Connecticut,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.

Holiday Gift Guide: I Love New York

December 1, 2023

Holiday Gift Guide: I Love New York
📍Upper East Side, NYC

Christmas, Holiday Season, Gift Guide, Shopping, Manhattan, New York City

Jacket || Feather Button-Down (Similar) || Jeans || Ballet Flats (Similar) || Similar Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

Manhattan is always a good idea! Still, there’s something about the holiday season that makes it feel even more magical. People travel from all over to take advantage of the beautiful light display and holiday shopping. It’s that spirit that inspired my latest Holiday Gift Guide. Here are 12 gift ideas that scream I Love New York for the New Yorker that’s near or far.

Puzzle || Perfume || Candle || Baseball Cap || Matchbook Print || Sweater (Similar) || Ceramic Mug || Embroidered Pillow || Coaster Set || Tote Bag || Heels || Cookbook

New Yorker Puzzle

David’s Grandma absolutely loves a good jigsaw puzzle! She quite a collection in her home and it’s such a fun way to spend a few hours with loved ones. This puzzle comes directly from the covers of the New Yorker magazine and is just right picture for the holiday season. At under $30, it’s perfect if you need that one extra gift to put under the tree.

Bond No. 9 Perfume

What makes Bond No. 9 unique is that it’s the first and only niche New York fragrance company. It offers 16 different fragrances that are inspired by different neighborhoods found in the city. It’s hard to think of a better perfume to gift your loved one who loves everything about New York. My favorite is the Tribeca fragrance. With subtle notes of jasmine, cedar, and cacao, it’s a unique scent that I guarantee people will begin to notice.

Harlem Company Candle

I always love the opportunity to support well-loved and innovative woman-owned businesses. Harlem Candle Company checks all of the boxes. Founded in 2014, Teri Johnson planted herself in Harlem to learn about the neighborhood’s incredible past. An element of Harlem’s history inspires each scene from her collection. The Ellington candle, and its beautiful ceramic jar, get its name from the underground nightclubs found during Prohibition.

NYON Baseball Cap

New York Or Nowhere has long been a favorite amongst New Yorkers near and far. If you haven’t visited their SoHo boutique, it is wonderful! They have all types of hats, tees, and sweatshirts galore that are perfect for anyone who loves the city. I love this simple New York or Nowhere ‘dad’ hat for a great stocking stuffer or one last gift to put under the tree. It’s never been easier to represent the city you love.

Matchbook Print

Some of my most cherished New York memories occur at the Carlyle, drinking and socializing at Bemelmans Bar until late at night. It is an absolute icon and begs the thought, “if these walls could talk.” This framed print from Charles Ryan Clarke is a constant reminder of an unforgettable evening. With hundreds of options to choose from, I think a matchbook print always makes for a great gift.

Intarsia Sweater

One souvenir that I can’t say no to is a fun, intarsia sweater. You often see them for quintessential New England locations, like Newport or Vermont (I have both). Ellsworth and Ivey is a woman-owned business specializing in these fun sweaters with detailing that span the entire country. The cozy, cotton blend sweaters can be worn year-round, especially on a cool December New York day.

Ceramic Mug

You know you’re a New Yorker when you become a regular and the neighborhood coffee cart. The “We are Happy to Serve You” cup is iconic. If you can’t get your daily cup in person or just want to minimize your carbon footprint, this ceramic mug is just the ticket! It’s equal parts charming and practical.

Embroidered Pillow

Here’s one more needlepoint pick for good measure. Although Jonathan Adler’s style and influence span the world over, there’s something still very New York about his work. Case in point, this needlepoint pillow from his Jet Set Collection. It will help add a little pizzazz under the Christmas tree and is an excellent gift for anyone with a love for design.

Smathers & Branson Coaster Set

This needlepoint coaster set from Smathers & Branson has all the hits: the Statue of Liberty, Washington Square Arch, the Brooklyn Bridge, and (of course) the city skyline. This cute little stocking stuffer is sure to please, especially because it will fit in nearly every New York apartment.

Kate Spade Tote Bag

The secret to surviving a day in New York? Have an oversized tote bag for all of the essentials. Obviously, there are a few more steps than that, but the bag thing certainly helps. Recently, Kate Spade came out with the ‘I Love NY’ collaboration and I think it’s an instant icon. The Manhattan tote bag is an extremely versatile bag that will everything you need to conquer the city that never sleeps.

Slowglobe Heels

So, I’ve been daydreaming about these snow globe-inspired heels pretty much since I laid eyes on them. There’s something so wonderful and whimsical about them, and no one has perfected whimsical quite like Kate Spade. I’m not going to lie to you. These shoes obviously aren’t going to be an everyday kind of shoe or even one that I would wear if I knew I was doing a lot of walking. But, wearing them to a dinner party or on date night? Perfection!

Don Angie Cookbook

New York is a city of countless incredible restaurants. While the thought of eating out every meal is tempting, it’s not exactly practical or budget-friendly. Instead, give the gift of fine dining by passing along a cookbook from a favorite restaurant. With its Michelin-star distinction, Don Angie is considered one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. Their Italian American cookbook includes recipes for some of their most popular dishes, including their pinwheel pasta and their chrysanthemum Caesar salad. Never stress about this impossible reservation again!

Love from the Upper East Side,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.

Holiday Gift Guide: Woman-Owned

November 29, 2023

Holiday Gift Guide: Woman-Owned
📍 New York City, NY

Holiday Shopping, Gift Guide, Christmas Season, Shop Small, Woman-Owned, Tuckernuck

Christmas is fast approaching. To try and find the perfect gift for your loved ones is a difficult task. I recommend starting small and shopping from a woman-owned business. Often, you’ll find a gift that is personal and incredibly thoughtful. Here’s a look at some of my favorite woman-owned businesses to shop for the holiday season. If the shipping time extends past Christmas, remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to shop from a woman-owned business year-round, 365 days a year.

Pareo Wrap || Makeup Bag || Baseball Cap || Wine Glass Set || Tumblers || Short Pajamas || Monogrammed Robe || Oversized Blanket || Hot Sauce Set || Straw Tote Bag || Iced Coffee Set || Vintage-Inspired Sun Hat

Julia Amory

Julia Amory partners with multiple print shops in Jaipur, India. The result is a collection of beautiful block print pieces, from table clothes to dresses. Last year, I ordered a gorgeous pareo wrap and instantly began daydreaming about how to style it. They also have a complete line of dresses and tablewares to shop and enjoy!

Amanda Lindroth

Amanda Lindroth is one of the interior designer who I most admire! Her eye for bold prints and island influences creates a one-of-a-kind style that I daydream to recreate in my own home. That journey is made simpler with her shop of linen and rattan pieces. For a simple and personal Christmas gift, consider a makeup bag, filled with some your favorite

Hellenic Aesthetic

I went to high school with the owner of Hellenic Aesthetic, Marianthi. She beautifully showcases her Greek heritage by sharing Greece-based designers. Her in-house jewelry line is filled with stunning 14k gold pieces that constantly inspire me to hop on the next plane to Athens. For the holiday season, I love this evil eye baseball cap to help your loved one have good energy going into the new year.

Estelle Colored Glass

Tuckernuck

Tuckernuck has long been a favorite for preppy garbs and chic home additions. This DC-based business is also one of my first destinations for holiday shopping. While they work and collaborate with a long list of incredible brands, I always love the pieces from the Tuckernuck collection. This tumbler set was gifted to me a few years ago. Ever since, David and I have been using them almost daily.

LAKE Pajamas

Lake Pajamas are the softest things around and perfect for your loved ones! The 100% Pima Cotton feels softer than a cloud and is great for lounging, or more accurately, an incredible night sleep. I have a few pairs, and it’s actually an effort not to wear them 24/7. As my collection grows, the next on my list is this striped button-down short set.

Weezie

It seems like the robe has been a standard gift for all of eternity. Weezie is not your standard robe. Made in sunny Portugal with 100% organic and OEKO-TEX® certified long-staple cotton, they are incredible. I the proud owner of their Short Robe, and I safely say I use it daily. Add a fun monogram for a personal touch.

Chappy Wrap

The need to snuggle with an oversized blanket gets stronger and stronger as the weather gets cooler. Add a fun movie and a big bowl of popcorn, and I’m in heaven! Chappy Wrap is a woman-owned, New England-based company that I have long admired. They have a rainbow of cozy blankets to match countless design styles.

Red Clay Hot Sauce

Red Clay Hot Sauce has become a kitchen staple ever since I worked with them last year. Their hot sauce sets are my favorite gifts for loved ones in the kitchen, including my dad. This year, they have a seafood hot sauce set that includes their new cocktail sauce. I can’t wait to get my hands on a bottle to pair with a batch of fried shrimp.

Breck and Grier

You all probably know my penchant for straw bags. I think they are the perfect summertime accessory and make for an even better gift. Breck and Grier was created by two Connecticut-based sisters to bring Moroccan straw bags to the masses. They can be personalized to match the style of your mom, friend, sister, or any woman in your life.

Sarah Bray Bermuda

This gift is for the gal who loves to be out in the sun! On every trip to someplace sunny, I bring my Sarah Bray sun hat along for the ride. If your loved one prefers to spend the day in the garden or at the beach, then this wide-brimmed hat will be perfect for her! There is a rainbow of ribbons to choose from, or you can opt for an exceptional vintage floral one instead.

Love from NYC,
Kaie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.