Forget everyone else: Gifts to give yourself this holiday season

Dec 05, 2012

Chrissy Callahan is a freelance beauty/fashion writer and editor. She has written for a variety of different websites and covered everything from NY Fashion Week to interviews with top industry professionals. For the latest beauty and fa...

View Profile

'Tis better to receive, right?

Just because you're too old to get presents from Santa doesn't mean you can't be your own Santa this holiday season. After all, who really thinks giving is better than receiving anyway?

The gift of pampering

As women, we're often guilty of putting everyone else's needs above our own. Sound familiar? Then it's time to treat yourself this holiday! Whether you haven't had a facial in years or your shoulders are jonesing for some massaging, treat yourself to a spa day this year. Are spas not your style? Pamper from the comfort of your own home! Treat yourself to a super sweet hair styling tool this holiday season and you'll have just-left-the-salon locks all year long.

My picks: Looking for a pampering bargain? Check out sites like Gilt City, SpaWeek and SpaFinder. Want salon-ready hair at home? Invest in Solano's SuperSolano 232 Dryer sold at SallyBeauty ($110).

A statement handbag

If you have a job and you're living on your own, there's no excuse to carry around a ratty old tote bag or junky excuse for a purse, ladies. I'm not one to blow a ton of money on a purse, but I do believe in quality, so this year, it's time to trash your old purses for a classic and classy statement purse. These babies don't have to cost more than your rent, but if they do, they'll definitely last you forever.

My pick: The Cambridge Satchel Company for Crewcuts Polka-Dot Satchel ($185) ; Brahmin Annabelle Saffiano Satchel ($345)

Jewelry

Marilyn really got it right when she said that diamonds are a girl's best friend. Nowadays, we don't have to spend millions to look like a million bucks, so it's the perfect time to treat yourself to a snazzy pair of jewels, whether they're in the form of earrings or a necklace.

My picks: Blue Nile Mini Round Diamond Earrings ($300); Joanna Laura Constantine bracelet ($195)

Sexy yet supportive underthings

No matter what her size, every woman needs a little body backup once in a while. Quality shapewear or lingerie can run on the pricey side, but trust me dolls, it's definitely worth it! This holiday, stuff your own stocking with a quality piece of sexy underthings. I'm pretty partial to the following!

My pick: Yummie Tummie Nylon Nici Shaping brief ($18); Vanity Fair Beauty Back Full Coverage Underwire Bra ($34)