Although you usually have to wrench us out of our beloved spike stilettos, buckle booties, and party pumps, we forsake all of these styles at the end of November and start gearing up for a marathon. And while we're not lacing up our cross trainers quite yet—studded ballet flats are our only nod to the exercise ahead—today we
are sounding the horn to mark the start of the holiday-shopping sprint! We know such competitive cardiovascular activity can literally leave you gasping for air, so we've scouted the gift-giving terrain for you, and are here to bring you an extra special
Shop the Closet. We promise it's filled with perfect presents for every person on your list (yourself, included!), so you can master the course in one easy stride.
From our editorial director, Hillary Kerr, we've learned the that when it comes to your girlfriends, you should go the extra mile with a little indulgence by way of C.Z. Falconer's
Nathalie Short Sleeve V-Neck Shirts ($80). "I adore giving my girlfriends luxurious little presents, so this year everyone's getting these chic t-shirts," she advises. "The tissue-weight cotton is simply heavenly on the skin." Passing the baton off to our associate photo editor, Christian David, we'll round the first lap with the Delfina Delettrez
Bat Bracelet ($885), which can be a great gift for a friend or yourself. "I am a sucker for science, fashion, and creepy statement jewelry," David declares. "So it’s only natural that I am dying over this cuff!"
Up ahead at the next bend, associate editor Kate Mulling's scouted a splurge that's spot-on for the girls-on-the-go in your inner circle—Alexander Wang's
Mixed Material Shopper ($780). "It's understated, chic, and big enough to carry your entire life," Mulling promises. Meanwhile, associate editor Liza Kaplan's found a thriftier indulgence that any giftee is sure to adore, "I highly recommend Jonathan Adler's
Letter Pillows ($98)," Kaplan says. "They're the perfect present for those people who have everything and a fun way to personalize a home." And finally, from creative director Katherine Power, we have a photo-worthy finish with Giuseppe Zanotti for Balmain's
Suede Court Shoes with Crystals ($1195). “I’ve been eyeing these Balmain pumps all season," Power confesses. "I would love to add them to my personal collection."(Who wouldn't?)
But for all our fashionable seasonal insight, just check out the accessories section, where you are sure to find something for every member on your gifting team (even guys!). Once you're ready to give
and receive, our only other words of advice are don't forget to stretch (your credit card limit, of course) and carry your
STC cheat sheet with you all the time…and you're off!—Liza Kaplan
1. A.L.C.
V-Neck T-Shirt Dress ($98)
2. Maybelline
ColorSensational Lipcolor ($7.50) in Mauve-ulous
3. Dannijo
Eden Ring ($138)
4. C.Z. Falconer's
Nathalie Short Sleeve V-Neck Shirts ($80)
5. La Via 18
Grosgrain Bow Belt ($45)
6. Mata Hari
Round Coin Bag ($58)
7.
Gossip Girl: The Complete Seasons 1 & 2 DVDs ($50)
8. Delfina Delettrez
Bat Bracelet ($885)
9. Ann Demeulemeester
Lace-Up Ankle Boots ($980)
10. Jonathan Adler
Letter Pillow ($98)
11.
Hue by Kelly Wearstler ($33)
12. Yves Saint Laurent
Arty Ovale Ring ($195)
13. Abitare
13 Color Shot Glass Set ($180)
14. Alexander Wang
Mixed Material Shopper ($780)
15. CC Skye
Pave Pyramid Stud Bracelet ($275)
16. West 57
Mini Patent Leather Travel Jewelry Box ($58)
17. Fuji
Instax Instant Camera ($130)
18. Lippmann Collection
Celebrate Nail Lacquer Set ($35)
19. Jennifer Behr
Spiked Turban Headwrap ($498)
20. Elle Macpherson Intimates
Boudoir Lace Underwire Bra ($130) and
Lace Thong ($50)
21. Urban Outfitters
Little Birch Jewelry Stand ($28)
22. Claridge + King
The Travel Set ($350)
23. Giuseppe Zanotti for Balmain
Suede Court Shoes with Crystals ($1195)