Father’s Day Gift Guide 2011 Edition
May 31, 2011 by Morgan
Filed under Entertainment, Featured, Shopping, Technology
So this year, skip the mall, head online and make your Dad beam with pride. Oh, and if you have any other great suggestions share them in the comments. The more ideas Erika has the better, right? 
FitBit – If the Dad in your life is an exercise fan, a geek or just needs to be motivated to get off the couch and regain a little spring in their step, the FitBit is the perfect gift. Clip it on your belt and you get the number of calories burned, the steps you’ve taken and the mileage you’ve traveled. Plus, wear FitBit at night and it’ll track your sleep efficiency. But wait, there’s more! The online dashboards, goal setting modules, friend connections and community are really where FitBit starts to shine. At just under $100, it’s a great gift for Dad – just be sure he doesn’t throw it in the wash!
Dyson Air Multiplier Bladeless Fan – Our family is a fan family, and to this day my Dad can’t sleep without a fan on. So if you’re looking to geek out on the latest in fan tech, skip the Vornado and head straight for the Dyson. It’s the first bladeless fan, which means it has a beautiful design and an even better wind stream to keep Dad cool while he catches some deserved mid-afternoon zzz’s.
Netflix Streaming Subscription – Some, ok me, might say that the gifts that keep on giving are the best of all. Because while a new gadget or shirt is nice, a subscription service gives Dad the ultimate – choice – every day of the year. Netflix streaming packages are less than $10/month and give Dad instant access to tens-of-thousands of movie titles and TV shows straight from his iPad, Xbox, iPhone, Android phone, Internet-enabled TV or computer. If you think your Dad will scratch his head at the gift, just tell him he can now watch every episode of Cheers ever made, back-to-back. Trust me, he’ll get it.
Audible.com – Another great subscription, especially for dad’s that are on the go. Remember books on tape? Well, imagine the Amazon for audio books that you play on your phone or iPod. In fact, Amazon owns Audible, and with a subscription you can guarantee Dad a new book title every month. There are thousands of books including the top Amazon and New York Times Bestsellers. It’s a book, a month, all year. To a bibliophile there is nothing better.
Apps for the iPhone – Sure Dad has the iPhone, but when you stare at his home screen and see that he only has the basic apps and Angry Birds you die a little on the inside. There is clearly a whole world of apps out there that are waiting to bring his iPhone to life. The easiest way to do this is to buy an iTunes gift card, and then sit down with him and pick a few out to get started. Then he’ll have some cash left over to buy a few on his own. Here are a few of my favorites: Path, Instagram, AutoStitch, Plants vs. Zombies, QuickOffice, MLB At-Bat, Skype, Simplenote, NBA Jam. Get him started with those gems and then get ready to hear “I didn’t know it could do that!” clear on through to next Father’s Day.
The Geek Dad’s Guide to Weekend Fun – Thanks to Erika, I own both Geek Dad and the latest from Ken Denmead, The Geek Dad’s Guide to Weekend Fun: Cool Hacks, Cutting Edge Games and More Awesome Projects for the Whole Family. Denmead, who writes for Wired’s blog of the same name, has assembled a collection of geeky projects that dads and kids can do together. The projects are fun, inexpensive and range in difficulty, making it perfect for any dad with kids 5 – 13. My son and I have made LED fireflies and are working on PVC Nerf blow dart guns next. I can’t wait till he’s a bit older to break out the soldering gun and bring our Legos to life. If the dad in your life is a geek, and you want to inspire the inner-geek in your kid, pick up these books. They’re tons of fun.
Bonobos Clothes – Walk into most retailers and the men’s section is roughly the size of a half-bathroom with few, if any, selections that really inspire. So instead of choosing from slim pickings, head on over to the online clothing store MADE for MEN, Bonobos, and pick up some stylish threads built to fit dad to a T. I particularly like the vintage sports tees. But everything they have is amazing – pants, shorts, suits, you name it.
Nook Color – I’m a Kindle guy, but I can’t help but jealously eye those Nook Colors. The Nook Color is more like a tablet than a stand alone e-reader. You can send email, surf the web, play Angry Birds, oh yeah, and read! At $249 it’s half the cost of the iPad and still a great geeky gift for your gadget-loving Dad.
A Magazine Subscription – Whether it’s Wired, Rolling Stone or The Economist, you can’t go wrong with a subscription that keeps Dad in the know. Grab a copy off the news stand so you have something to give, and tell him it comes with at least 12 more just like it. Thoughtful, easy, inexpensive. Win.
iPad 2 - Its predecessor topped my Dad’s Day list last year, and now, more than ever, it’s the ultimate gift for a geeky dad. You’ve seen the ads, you know the deal. If you’re looking for a true statement gift, this is it. I shouldn’t need to say much more.
Tickets to a Ballgame – There’s nothing quite like being at a ballgame with your Dad. Remember the first one you went to? Kind of felt like magic, right? But with ticket prices so high, who can afford it anymore? Well you can if you use ScoreBig. Like a Priceline for sports, concert and theater tickets, you save up to 60% off the retail price. With ScoreBig, you decide how much you want to pay for tickets, plus there are never any fees and every ticket is 100% guaranteed. It’s members only right now, but luckily I work there, so here’s a special invite to skip the waiting list and get in now. Why not grab a couple of tickets to the game for you and your pops? And if he’s more of a rocker, you can rock out at a concert of your choice instead.
L.A. Noire – If you have a gamer in the house this is one of the two must-have games on the list for this year. Made by the legendary game shop Rockstar Games, this title takes you back to 1940’s Los Angeles, where you play a detective in a giant game of ‘who dunnit?’ where things aren’t what they seem and characters change allegiances and stories at the drop of a hat. Definitely one to play after the kids are in bed. The stunning graphics, expansive world and nuanced stories make this a winner.
Portal 2 – The other blockbuster game of the year. If your Dad is more of a problem-solving puzzle master, ditch Sudoku and get him this mind bender. In a game that is more mind power than fire power, your Dad’s smarts will be put to the test as he tries to defeat the evil GLaDOS. It’s been called the most anticipated game of 2011 – trust me, your Dad will thank you for it.
Xbox Kinect – And while we’re speaking of games, we can’t forget the next-gen sensation that is the Xbox Kinect. Ditch the controller and get off the couch with Kinect’s body-controlled interface. If your Dad liked Minority Report, he’ll love this. Use your hands and body to navigate characters through games, truly putting you in the middle of the action. With titles for him and the whole family, Kinect takes the idea of the Wii to the next level.
Adidas Rod Laver – I love Zappos. With free 48 hour shipping and 365 days to make a return, you can’t go wrong. Add on top of that the world’s largest collection of clothing and shoes and you’ve got a winner in my book. I’m a fan of the Adidas Rod Laver. Classic, understated and cool. They work just as well in the office as they do on the weekend. Keep Dad young and hip with a pair of these. You’ll see a spring in his step in no time.
A Cool Watch – Nothing adds geek cred like a conversation-starting watch. But skip the Timex and grab one of these cool watches. While Hipsters may go for the calculator watch, add a bit more class and go for the subtle nod to geekdom with the Cadence 4-bit Chronoraph. With a July launch you’ll need to let him know it’s coming, but it’ll be worth the wait. It’s clean design says “I know what’s up” rather than “I’m a follower”. After all, that calculator watch lost it’s cool when it ended up in Urban Outfitters.
Altec Octiv Mini – I’ve been using this since last Father’s Day and it’s been my most used gadget ever since. Part iPhone charger, part alarm clock, part sound system, this little gem is where my iPhone goes at night, and wakes me up with tunes of my choice. The small footprint doesn’t take away from the great sound it gives music on your phone. So toss that old alarm clock and upgrade to the Altec Octiv Mini.
Beats by Dre – Not only do they carry the name of the most influential Hip Hop artist of our generation, they also get rave reviews for their clear highs and clean bass. I recommend the Solo HDs. They sound great and they just look cool. They’re not cheap, but if your dad spends a bunch of time on the train, subway or plane, hook him up with some sonic enjoyment.
Countertop garden – Bring a little Zen to Dad’s life with a desk or counter top garden. Trust me, he’ll love playing Daniel-son and reliving the hundreds of times he watched the Karate Kid. These cool planters are clean, easy to maintain and bring some natural beauty to any cubicle or counter top.
These Guys Have All the Fun – The ESPN Book – Give Dad 700+ pages of the inside scoop to his favorite network. This tell all includes the sometimes sordid and messy details of life at ESPN behind the scenes of SportsCenter. From the writers who brought you the New York Times bestselling look behind Saturday Night Live, this book will give Dad all he ever wanted to know about the Worldwide Leader and more.
So that’s a wrap for this year’s gift guide. Have any great suggestions? Add them in the comments. And remember, every one of these gifts is better when it comes with a big hug and an “I love you Dad.” Trust me, we’re a sucker for those, every time.
Celeb Style: Carrie Underwood’s Sequin Top on American Idol
May 26, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Fashion & Style, Featured
I’m not sure if you watched the season finale of American Idol last night but there was definitely a moment where the show was stolen completely. Unfortunately, it wasn’t one of the final two that caught my eye, but the fabulous off-the-shoulder sequin top that Carrie Underwood paired with short white shorts.
Side note – can we just talk about Carrie’s incredible body transformation over the years? I mean, did you see those gams? I think I need to print out that picture and tape it to the elliptical machine to give me inspiration during my workouts.
Back to the subject at hand – Carrie Underwood’s sequin top.
The internet is abuzz with folks searching to find that top, but we’ve got bad news. According to Possessionista Carrie’s top was custom made by her longtime stylist Trish Townsend and isn’t available in stores.
What do you think of Carrie’s sequin top? Would you rock it ? Can someone pull it off when they are not on a stage with tons of lights? Let us know in the comments!
Duchess Catherine Causes Fashion Frenzy, Crashes Website
May 25, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Entertainment, Fashion & Style, Featured
Kate Middleton is at it again.
Days after returning from a sun-filled honeymoon in the Seychelles, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge greeted President and Mrs. Obama at Buckingham Palace on Monday. No stranger to fashion, the First Lady chose a pale green, embroidered frock by Barbara Tfank, paired with a cropped pink jacked and silver kitten heels. A tanned, slim Catherine chose a simple, beige, body con bandage dress by Reiss.
Duchess Catherine most certainly outshone the First Lady, and has yet again created a fashion frenzy, with the US division of Reiss selling out of the $340 “Shola” dress in two days. Not only that, but frenzied buyers managed to crash the Reiss website due to high demand!
Do you like the look that the Duchess chose for the occasion? Would you wear this dress? Let us know in the comments!
Hot Mama: Stylish Summer Looks
May 25, 2011 by Kat
Filed under Fashion & Style, Featured
If you’re reading this, of course you know that Erika is cute, stylish, and most importantly-a mom. I met her for coffee recently, and her whole look testified to these three things. This girl has got it down to a science…she manages to be comfortable enough to chase after her daughter, put together enough to roam the streets of NYC, and right on trend. Inspired by her fabulous style, I’ve put together a few summer outfits that would work for a hot mama like her-complete with accesories that work with all three looks. Which of these looks would you try?
tunic, jeans, tank, shorts, blouse, jeans
sunnies, polish, sandals
Note from the Erika: I had NO idea she was planning to write this – but thanks so much Kat! xo
Kids Swimwear on Sale at The Disney Store!
As you might have guessed or heard, I started this blog as a way to hopefully curb an out-of-control shopping addiction. At one point, I was addicted to shopping for myself, but becoming a mother increased my problem ten-fold – do you have any IDEA how many adorable options are out there for KIDS?
Considering that I have a slight (ok major) obsession with Disney – you can safely assume that while my addiction is mostly cured – the Disney Store is the one place that I can get a little, well, out of control.
Currently they are having a swimwear sale on everything from bathing suits, to sunglasses, to flip flops.
I have a basket with several swimsuits, personalized towels, 3 pairs of sunglasses (what?! They are $2.50 EACH!) and one Spiderman costume all ready to go – what can I say – I’m a sucker!
Go check it out!
Summer Staple: The Wedge
May 16, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Fashion & Style, Featured, Shoes
Summer is almost upon us (woah – Spring, way to go flying by!) and I’m already embracing the sundress and summer sandals. One particular shoe will keep you looking sassy all summer long, even if you do pair it with something as simple as a cotton sundress. Of course, I’m talking about the ever-fabulous wedge.
This summer, opt for a fun metallic option that will really add a punch to the same simple dress that you usually throw on with flip flops. Pair these babies with a white cropped pant and even the shortest gal will have legs that appear to go on for days. Can you see why I sing the praises of the wedge?
I love these wedges from Børn, who uses cork and raffia as a natural foundation to shape some of summer’s most fashionable footwear. All styles retail for $105, except for the “Crown Claudine” on the bottom right, which retails for $140. I’m personally coveting the Børn Lote (shown here bottom left in gold) in bronze metallic or the Børn Amore (top left).
Do you wear wedges? What is your favorite summer shoe? Share with us in the comments!
Rayovac, Disneyland, & the Cars 2 Premiere!
May 16, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Entertainment, Featured, Kids, Travel
We just wrapped up the most magical weekend and I’m here to gush all about it to you. 
My fiancé and I wanted to bring our kiddos to Disneyland for a taste of the magic that only Disney can provide, and Rayovac, as the official battery of Disney Parks, helped to make that happen. We had 2 amazing days at the parks, full of character meet-and-greets, first roller-coaster rides, and a VIP viewing of World of Color.
Our kiddos had an amazing time – riding together in the front of the Monorail, Finding Nemo as a family, spinning like crazy on the Teacups, and Soarin’ Over California. It was a really amazing time for the four of us, and I cannot thank Christine and Rayovac enough for making it all happen.
Though I haven’t done as much blogging about Disney here on Chic Shopper Chick, I’ve done a fair share of writing and tweeting (and most certainly Facebooking and Flickring) about the fact that I’m a Disney FANATIC. We are annual passholders to both parks (as in Disneyland and Walt Disney World), DVC members, and at this point, we’ve been so frequently that my daughter thinks the Southwest airplanes are actually “Mickey airplanes”. Also, this marked her 10th visit to a Disney Resort of some sort. She is 4.
Heck, I love the Disney Resorts SO much that I was even able to share that love with others in a Disney Parks commercial!
I’m sure you can see why, when Rayovac came to me with an insanely cool proposal involving the Cars 2 Premiere, I jumped at the chance to get involved. Check out the announcement video that I made for you at the not-yet-finished Cars Land in Disney’s California Adventure!
You heard right – I’m going to be representing Rayovac on the Red Carpet for the premiere of Cars 2 in Hollywood! I’m so excited to be reporting on behalf of Rayovac, and I’ll be sure to be back here to update you as the June 18th premiere gets closer!
Disclosure: While this post was not compensated, I did benefit from the ongoing relationship that I have with Rayovac, and this post is a reflection of that relationship. However, my opinions are and always have been 100% mine.
Spring’s Hottest Nail Polish Colors
May 4, 2011 by Kat
Filed under Beauty, Fashion & Style, Featured
DIY sparkle polish, coral polish, nude polish, mint polish, neon polish
Nail color trends are ALL OVER THE PLACE this Spring. Light, bright, dark, subtle, textured-you name it, and someone is rocking it. Nudes are still carrying over from those shades of greige we saw all last year while corals are a simple and classic way to welcome in warmer weather. Neon hues are best suited for the free spirited fashionista (or toesies!!), but if you want to experiment with color in an more grownup way, try a pastel shade like mint green. The textured trend is definitely for the more patient painter, requiring layers of different polishes to achieve the final effect. The best part about nail polishes is that they can be easily changed and you can try a ton of different looks for very little cost. So go out on a limb and try a trend that’s a little more out there than usual-you’ll be glad you did!
Dyson Digital Slim DC35: A Lifesaver
May 3, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Shopping, Technology
This week I have another great video made specifically for the Walmart Moms to share with you all about the Dyson Digital Slim DC 35. It’s really cool to watch this video and see how much engineering and thought goes into the making of one of these vacuums – it’s actually rather incredible. However, before I do, I want to share with you the story of how this little handheld, cordless vacuum saved my booty this week.
Here is the story, in short form.
I already have a large upright vacuum that I use on my rugs and the carpet in the bedroom. The DC 35 was chillin’ and charging in the corner and I had 2 hours until I had to leave to pick up my fiance’ at the airport. Time to vacuum, right? Wrong, My upright vacuum cleaner would just NOT work. I couldn’t get it to recline. Out of desperation, I put the extension on the DC 35 and turned it on. I vacuumed my entire house with it in 13 minutes flat with full-blow suction the whole time. And we’re not just talking a so-so vacuuming experience, we are talking SERIOUSLY clean.
It even sucked up a few rogue cheetos from under the couch. Remind me to thank my 4 year old for that one.
Check out the video, and tell me that you aren’t dying to have a Dyson Digital Slim DC 35 of your very own? I thought so!
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post for Walmart as a part of my role in the Walmart Moms. All opinions are, and always have been, my own.
Hot For Spring: Cheery Bags
May 2, 2011 by Kat
Filed under Accessories, Fashion & Style, Featured
kate spade, rebecca minkoff, proenza schouler
love moschino, balenciaga
Cheers, my lovelies! Perhaps the Royal Wedding coverage is getting to me just a bit? But I do want to talk about something cheery-the gorgeous, saturated colors we are seeing in handbags lately. Talk about adding a punch to a plain ole outfit! From deep blues to corals and even cornea-burning fluorsecents (my fave)-bright colors are found everywhere, in almost every style, and at every single price point. The most obvious way to rock this style is with a giant statement bag. It says, “Hi! Look at me…I’m fabulous!”. The crossbody is a bit more sly, but definitely gives you a little hipster edginess. And a clutch is a simple, quiet burst of color-this works well with outfits you feel don’t “go” with the bag, as you aren’t technically wearing it but carrying it. Which color/style combo is your fave? I’m not even gonna lie, I lurve them all!
Mother’s Day: My Wishlist
May 1, 2011 by Erika
Filed under Accessories, Beauty
As you know, Mother’s Day is fast approaching. Oh man, I’m excited. The day that I celebrate my ultimate favorite role in life – motherhood.
Of course, my daughter is 4 years old, and I’m a single mom, so I don’t expect much along the lines of extravagant gifts (or gifts at all) for Mother’s Day. However, if somehow, a representative of my sweet little girl decided to get me a present on her behalf…well, here are the things I fancy.
Also, some of these things might not be exactly low in price. Hey, it’s called a WISHlist for a reason, folks!
High on the list? An iPad 2. I figure I’m the last person in the world that will end up with one of these little babies – as I’m pretty sure that my fiance’ will be the first of the two of us to have one. However, there are lots of fun things I can do WITH my daughter on the iPad 2, which is the main reason I want one!
Next on my list? This 10 mp Olympus X560 Waterproof Camera. Audrey Grace and I practically LIVE in the water during the summer, and this baby comes along for the ride quite nicely, without me having to be paranoid that I’m going to get it wet and ruin it. Waterparks, swimming pools, and beach – here we come!
Ok, this one might seem a little strange, but I’d love a Philips Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush. Frankly, I’m a bit fanatical about my teeth, and I have a wedding coming up in 6 months! I’ve gotta take care of those beautiful chompers!
Lately I’ve been traveling back and forth between my home base of New Orleans and the Los Angeles area a good bit, where my other half lives. Frankly, toting a suitcase back and forth full of beauty products every other weekend (what – you didn’t actually think I traveled light, did you?) gets old – so I’d love to have a new Chi straightening iron to keep in Cali!
My last wishlist item is a ring with a purple amethyst – which is the birthstone of February – the month that Audrey Grace was born in. I think it would be special to wear this on a daily basis to remind me of her. We are together almost every moment of every day, but the moments that we aren’t are the ones where this reminder would be exceptionally welcome.
All of these items can be found at Walmart or Walmart.com. What is on your wishlist this Mother’s Day? Share your ideas in the comments!
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post for Walmart as a part of my role in the Walmart Moms. All opinions are, and always have been, my own.
