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.

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!

flutter sleeve dress and printed top at lulu’s
waisted dress at modcloth
panel dress at urbanog
blouse at urban outfitters
wedges at nordstrom

My favorite color this Spring? Coral! It’s fun, bright, and cheery-it can spice up the simplest of looks. Ranging from a deep reddish hue to orange-y, to teetering on the edge of hot pink, coral’s many incarnations make it wearable for absolutely anyone.  Feeling bold? Throw on a fun and flirty dress. Spice up your work wardrobe with a silky blouse. Not sure if you’re crazy about coral? Pop it into your look with a great shoe. No matter how you wear it, you’re sure to love it!

Tis the season for the color of passion.  In celebration of Valentine’s Day, here are a few red-hot picks that are high on our list.  Disclaimer:  All items will make any man swoon, use in moderation.

1. Long Tall Sally’s Cap Sleeve Ponte Dress – $105

2. eyebobs’ “bamboozled” frames – $75

3. Spring Street’s “Gem Dandy” leather and crystal bracelet – $20

4. Clava’s “Wellie” market tote – $26

5. Børn’s “Cornflower” sandal – $95

6. Long Tall Sally’s leather belt – $25

7. Long Tall Sally’s satin pumps – $32

8. Harlequin by Panache’s “Polka” lingerie set – $82 for bra, $26 for brief

These wingtip flats are the perfect way to take the “frou frou” out of a fun dress. It keeps it hip and edgy. Kimchi Blue $34

A pair of quiet, blends in Toms are a must for me this Fall (last year I went with a fun camo pair from Neiman Marcus and for being camo, they sure don’t blend). They are uber-comfy and a great transtitional shoe as the weather cools. Toms $44

The suede ballet flat with the ankle strap works well with cropped skinny black pants (cropped allows you to show off the cute little straps!) or with a striaght jean rolled at the ankle. Gabrielle Rocha $59.50

Snakeskin Lanvin flats are  totally out of my budget more like a dream shoe….they would go with everything, though! Jeans, black skinny pants, skirts and dresses all work with this simple shape and always in style skin. Lanvin $460

Oxfords are all the rage right now, and these laceless ones are effortlessly cool. They’re comfortable and work appropriate, yet they can hold their own on the casual front. Steve Madden $69.95

Clogs are super cute right now, but the height can get to be too much-this lower version will allow you to wear them all day long, with jeans, trousers or a great A-line skirt. Tory Burch $275

Tory Burch is having a private sale.  Don’t worry, I’m inviting you.  You have to hurry though, because this sale ends tonight (10/25/10) at 11:59 pm EST – so that means you don’t even have a full 24 hours to fill your cart with items like:

You know you want to.  Go, shop!   You can thank me later!

xoxo,

E

1.  Net Ballerina Skirt from Lipsy.  $60 2. Leaf Clasp Waist Belt.  $29  3. Alexander McQueen Heart Peep Toe Pumps.  $835 $467.60   4.  Coach Madison ‘Juliane’ Tote.  $95/month  5. John Lewis Bow Leather Gloves.  $57   6.  Phosphorescence Bracelet. $42   7. Dolce & Gabbana dress.  $2,325 8.  Erickson Beamon Medieval Swarovski drop earrings.  $400.   9.  Charles by Charles David Fluster (in plum).  $125  10. MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Berkley – Large’ Clutch.  $195.

I just went there, took a short quiz, and found out my personal flavor is “The Devil Wears Cheesecake.” It described me as “A glamorous trendsetter who isn’t shy about her love for the finer things.”  Perfect!

I’ve got an awesome chance for you to win a $100 gift card to Famous Footwear, and you’ll have the chance to discover your own flavor along the way.

Giveaway

Grand Prize

This week, Famous Footwear is awarding one lucky winner with a $100 gift card. Shoes anyone? (Be sure to check out the Fine Print below!)

Coupon

We wanted to make everyone a winner, so visit MakeTodayUnexpected.com and enter to receive $10.00 off your next purchase of $50.00 or more.

Entry Requirements

To enter for a chance to win the $100 Famous Footwear gift card, please do these four things (make sure you leave a separate comment for each of your entries).

Note: Entries that do not follow all of these requirements will not be considered.

1. Take the ‘Find Your Flavor’ quiz by clicking here. Leave a comment on this post with your flavor and e-mail address.
2. Become a fan of the Famous Footwear’s Make Today Unexpected Facebook Page. (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Make-Today-Famous/112646406371?ref=ts)
3. Follow @maketodayfamous on Twitter.
4. Post these messages on Facebook and/or on Twitter and leave comments here, linking to your messages:

Join #gno 8/25 from 9-11 ET 2 chat shoes & ice cream w/ @famous_footwear & @maketodayfamous. RSVP: http://bit.ly/wsRrC PLS RT

Download Famous Footwear coupon 4 back-to-school/fall savings: http://bit.ly/fogQH PLS RT #gno

Extra Entries

You can earn up to two extra entries for this week’s giveaway. Leave an additional comment for each.

• Click here and become a Famous Footwear REWARDS club member (free).
• Post or tweet about something unexpected that has happened to make your day or week more positive on @maketodayfamous or on the Make Today Unexpected Facebook Page.

The Fine Print

Contest ends Sunday, August 30th.  No purchase necessary to enter. Famous Footwear and Mom It Forward employees, and giveaway hostesses are ineligible to participate. Entries that do not follow all of the entry requirements will not be considered.

The collection will only be featured in 250 of H&M’s stores worldwide, but chances are that you’ll be able to snag some Choo swag at an H&M near you.  Can’t wait until the fall to see this much-anticipated collection?  I’ve got a sneak peek for you below!

Photo Credit: H&M Press

Photo Credit: H&M Press

Living in Louisiana I pretty much have the seasonal weather to wear flip flops unless it’s snowing – and that only happens once every 5 years or so (snow, that is) so I know exactly where I’ll be on Saturday to stock up on Flip Flops.  Check it out at Old Navy!

(Wow, did I have way too much caffeine today or what?  This is why I don’t drink RedBull.)

Do you wear flats?  One of my dream purchases is a pair of Chanel Ballet Flats, and one day when I have loads of money (ha!) I fully intend to own a pair.  I just think that ballet flats are a classic shoe that will always be in style.  To me, the fact that a nice pair of flats are a wardrobe staple is fact.  An indisputable truth.  Or is it?  The other day my world was turned upside down when I overheard someone make the statement “Ballet flats should only be used for ballet.  I don’t like them, at all.”  My head was spinning, was I hearing correctly?  Did others not accept ballet flats as fact, as truth? I mean, look at how CUTE some of these are!!

Penny Loves Kenny Myriad Flats

Penny Loves Kenny Carnival Flat

Seeeeeeee?  Cute, right?  So what do you think?  Do you belong to the republic of ballet flats like me?  Or do you think ballet flats should only be used by little girls in dancing school?  Take my poll below and let me know!

I knew exactly what I was looking for — I wanted black, suede, mid-calf, slightly scrunchy, with a cuff at the top and no heel (see, I told you I knew EXACTLY what I wanted!).  I thought this would be fairly simple to find – so I set off in search of them.  I stopped at a few department stores, where I swear I must have looked at over 50 pairs of boots in total.  They were all leather, with a heel, had buckles, not scrunchy enough — I couldn’t believe that this boot that I had conceptualized in my head didn’t exist.  Bummed and frustrated, I returned home.  I turned to Twitter, sending out this tweet detailing my frustrations.

Guess what?  The recommendations started pouring in!  Thanks to the suggestions of my twitter friends, I eventually stumbled upon the most amazing pair of (PERFECT) boots – the Bonanza by Steve Madden!  Naturally, they didn’t have them in my size online, but I found them at the Steve Madden store at a nearby mall.  These babies ROCK!  They are comfy, stylish, and warm — they were my saving grace in NYC.  You can check out my TwitPic in Times Square to see the boots in action, but I am just in love with their soft, warm goodness.  So, if you are looking for the perfect pair of boots, you might want to consider these.  Trust me, I’ve done all the leg work for you!

The famous Ladybug shoes are Monkey-Toes Little Ladies Mary Janes, created by Jenny Ford, the owner of Monkey Toes.  She is a work at home mom who developed her “great idea” into a successful business.  Her story should serve as an inspiring example that with hard work and believing in yourself incredible things are possible, especially for other mompreneurs out there!  The other inspiring story from this moment on Oprah is the story of the person who gifted Suri Cruise with her Ladybug Shoes, Katja Presnal.  Presnal is a PR consultant and also a mompreneur in her own right who, with her incredible marketing instincts, managed to land those Ladybug shoes on Oprah in the first place and have them endorsed by Tom Cruise.

Last time this Oprah segment aired Google was exausted with searches for Suri’s Ladybug Shoes.  Presnal became an overnight marketing sensation, and people everywhere were reaching out to her, asking her how she got those adorable ladybug shoes on Oprah in the first place!  She in turn has done her part to “pay it forward” – focusing on helping mommy bloggers and others with great ideas and great products to move their projects forward and fufilling their potential.

Check out Katja Presnal’s online store – Skimbaco – where you can get these adorable Ladybug shoes on sale for $29.  You should also check out her sale section, where children’s designer clothes are on sale for as much as 75% off!

Win it! You can win a pair of these adorable Little Ladybug Shoes from Skimbaco and Monkey Toes!  To enter, follow the easy-peasy rules below.

• Check out the Ladybug Shoes and let me know what your other favorite item from her store is.
  
• Earn extra credit! You may do these for extra entries.
• • Blog about this giveaway and link back here and to Skimbaco Lifestyle (Katja’s blog). Tell me about it in a separate comment.
  • Follow me on Twitter and Follow Katja on Twitter.  Tell me about it in a separate comment.
  • Subscribe to my RSS feed via email or in a reader and tell me about it in a separate comment.
  • Stumble my main webpage (www.chicshopperchick.com) and leave me your Stumble Upon name in a separate comment.

That’s it! Good luck! Oh, and the official rules and legal jargon are below.

US entries only, winner will be chosen via random.org at the end of the contest. Winners are posted here and on Prizey Fetch, please leave a valid email address or blog address if you’d like to be contacted should you win. Winner has 72 hours to claim their prize. This contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on December 18th, 2008.