Holiday Shopping Tips, Celebrity Favorite Items

Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are approaching and you're stuck for gift ideas. Frustrated, you turn to the internet for help and what do you find? Websites galore offering you holiday shopping guides. But most of these websites earn commissions if you purchase the product they're pushing. So are they suggesting the item because they've tried it or because they'll make money when you buy it?

I'm pretty cautious about making recommendations. If you don't like it, I could lose your trust. I'm not going to plug anything - even if it's touted as the newest, hippest, hottest thing - unless I try it, wear it, feel it, love it. I know your time is valuable, so let's see if I can help you with some gift ideas, no strings attached:

AXE DEODORANT BODY SPRAY $5
By now you've seen the commercials. Handsome male exits elevator, leaving his fabulous scent with the ordinary guy inside to fend off the advances of others entering the elevator. It's true. Men (and women) are going crazy over AXE Body Deodorant Spray. Men want to smell like that hunk and women want their men to smell like him. First introduced in France in 1983 and available in over 60 countries, AXE finally came to the U.S. this past August and it's been flying off stores shelves since. The product comes in six fragrances: Kilo, Voodoo, Tsunami, Apollo, Phoenix, and Orion, retails for less than $5.00 each, and tops anyone's Christmas list. Great for guys 13 - 103. Available everywhere (especially if you get lucky) - try WalMart, KMart, Target-type stores.

HELLO KITTY by SANRIO $5 and up
Whether you need something for a five year old, a fifteen year old, a college student, or their mother, Hello Kitty has it, and you'll be the Santa who thought of the fun, thoughtful, (and often practical) gifts. From stickers, pens & stationary, plush toys to plush purses, lunch boxes to boom boxes, waffle makers to coffee makers, cordless phones to travel bags to televisions, Hello Kitty is a one stop wonderland. Carmen Electra even found Hello Kitty guitar picks for her fiancé, musician Dave Navarro! Visit the official home of Hello Kitty by Sanrio website to shop online or to locate stores in a mall near you.

PHILOSOPHY KISS ME LIP BALM $10
I discovered this lip balm one day while shopping at Kitson, an awesome shop on S. Robertson Blvd. in L.A. Okay, I'll admit I picked up Kiss Me because of the name, but I quickly fell in love with this super emollient lip balm and that little tube has not left my pocket since! Kiss Me protects and soothes with vitamin E, kiwi, and sweet almond oil and my lips couldn't be softer. This is the lip balm that is genuinely not "greasy" and it provides the long lasting shine women want. It'd make a nice gift or stocking stuffer for anyone 15 and up.

ZOPPINI ITALIAN CHARM BRACELETS $10 and up
Capture memories or create your favorite saying with Zoppini's interchangeable charms, made from high quality stainless steel, enamel and 18 kt. gold. Mine spells out L.A. Starz followed by a ".com" charm. With hundreds of motifs available, you can personalize the perfect gift for your loved ones by choosing from letters of the alphabet, birthstones, zodiac signs, flags & patriotic emblems, sports, and icons representing music, animals, holidays, babies, family, fruits, occupations, travel, hobbies, and everything in between. Zoppini's charms are made to wear, trade, give and cherish and always make a great gift. Preview at Zoppini.com; the charms are available in gift and specialty shops everywhere.

CELL BABY ~ Communicate With Love $12
I admit it - I have a problem. Somehow my cell phone never makes it's way back into the cell phone pocket of whatever purse I happen to be carrying. It gets tossed into my bag and makes it way down, below my wallet, maps, magazines, everything. Then I have to search for it and ultimately find it somewhere near the car keys I'm also always struggling to find (what can I say, I'm a busy person, always moving, moving, moving!). Anyway, I found the solution, and a way to make people smile at the same time, with a Cell Baby, this adorable, plush cell phone cover that turned my phone into a warm, snuggly stuffed animal that's always by my side. It's also a great ice-breaker, and people don't mind so much when I use my cell to make that can't-wait phone call. With styles to suit every personality, give one of these babies a try. Visit CellBaby.com for more details.

DU WOP BUTTERCREAM MOISTURIZER $17
I love hand lotions and body moisturizers, and this one not only has the perfect consistency to indulge your skin, it has a scent that demands attention. I'm always bringing out Du Wop's Buttercream to share with friends - and strangers - just to watch their reaction. Created by Cristina Bartolucci and Laura DeLuisa, hair and makeup artists to many of Hollywood's top stars including Renee Zellweger, Bruce Willis, Jennifer Garner, and Michelle Pfeiffer and models such as Gisele Bundchen, the fragrance is irresistible and a welcome treat for guys and gals. And you'll love this: DuWop's products are "tested on actors, not animals." Du Wop Buttercream, and all of DuWop's high quality beauty and skin care products, are available at Nordstrom's and through the DuWop OnLine website.

WILSON'S LEATHER $20 and up
Wilson's is another wonderful one stop shop. It's where you can pick up high quality leather items for everyone on your list: leather gloves for Uncle Bob, an organizer for Aunt Bea, a briefcase for Cousin Billy, a rolling backpack for your sister Barbara, a messenger bag for Dad, a sleek leather jacket for Mom, and how about stylish leather pants for yourself? Gifts from Wilson's Leather are timeless.

MY TEE $22 and up
Another can't-go-wrong gift is a little something from My-Tee casual wear. Choose from novel tees, tanks, jumpsuits, thongs, totes, undies and other breezy items, in a variety of colors and styles, all designed to give the wearer a most comfortable fit. My-Tee hit the market just two years ago and are now sold in 600 stores around the world, which in itself is testament to the quality and desirability of the brand. Much of the inspiration for the My-Tee collection comes from vintage motifs of the 1930's, '40's and '50's. The designer, Chrissy Azzaro, often pours through old newspapers, vintage poster shops and even old Betty Crocker cookbooks to ignite design ideas, creating retro looks with a modern sensibility favored by teens and adults. In addition to being featured in Cosmo, Essence and InStyle.com, My-Tee designs have been spotted on Tiffani Thiessen, Sharon Stone, Courtney Cox-Arquette, Christina Applegate and Katie Holmes. Visit MyTeeRocks.com for store locations near you.

Another reason to love My-Tee is the petite twenty-something powerhouse behind the collection, former BCBG intern Chrissy Azzaro. Chrissy is a wonderful example of what one can achieve through tenacity and determination. In her case, Chrissy dreamed of owning her own casual clothing company and she made it happen before her 25th birthday. Chrissy doesn't take her success for granted though and donates a lot of time to charities. Most recently, Chrissy sponsored an event to benefit Planet Hope, a Los Angeles based non-profit organization dedicated to helping homeless children and their families (see below). Asked about her goals, Chrissy replied, "I'd like to do an event each season that lets My-Tee clients put their creativity and wallets to excellent use doing something good for our community. I was raised in Los Angeles and I've been so blessed -- I just want to share that."

BELLA DAHL $25 and up
Bella Dahl, the super sexy denim and sweat brand known for its expert fit, designer washes and vintage soft feel is always a perfect choice. As seen in In Style and People, Bella Dahl offers a variety of jeans, jackets, skirts, t-shirts, hoodies, sweatpants, activewear and more, in soft, move-with-you fabrics. In addition to their junior sizes, Bella Dahl designs a popular maternity collection sold at Pea In the Pod. Bella Dahl is also available at Fred Segal, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman and Lisa Klein and at boutiques and specialty shops around the country. At the recent VH-1 Big in 2002 Awards, where Bella Dahl was a sponsor, Kid Rock picked out a pair of Bella Dahl low-rise lace-up jeans for Pamela Anderson, while Richie Sambora grabbed the star logo sweats for his wife, Heather Locklear. Norah Jones stepped into a pair of brown pinstriped velour flares. Christina Aguilera picked up a pair of white denims, and Bo Derek wore her Bella bum-huggers on the red carpet with her sweetie, John Corbett.

LADY M HANDBAGS $40 - 60
What to get for the lady who has everything? How about a custom designed Lady M Handbag. Each Lady M handbag is unique and bears it's own specially given name. Made in a never-ending variety of patterns and styles, the simplest outfit can come to life when accessorized with a Lady M custom made purse, bag or clutch. Want to be noticed? Carry a Lady M!

RED MONKEY by TORRY PENDERGRASS $45 and up
As seen in the movies (including What Women Want, The Princess Diaries, A.I., A Walk to Remember, The Mexican and the new Jennifer Lopez flick, Maid In Manhattan), on stars including Kristen Davis, Josh Hartnett, Reese Witherspoon, Heath Ledger, Madonna, Tom Welling, and Ryan Phillippe, and on numerous magazine covers and layouts (In Style, Teen People, Jane, W, Self, Cosmo, Detour, Women's Wear Daily, and more), Red Monkey Designs are hot. You've also seen their belts, watches, accessories and guitar straps on popular television shows and countless music videos (the belt Madonna wears in the new James Bond video is from Red Monkey). Everything is hand made in Red Monkey's California studios, where they can customize a design just for you. Orders can be placed through the Red Monkey Designs website (do it by December 18th for Christmas delivery) or by visiting their new store in West Hollywood.

STEVE MADDEN $50 and up
Everyone needs shoes. Why not give them a pair from one of the trendiest lines in town? In designs for him and her, choose from the latest sport shoes, sneaker styles, sandals, boots and dress shoes for the young or young at heart. Check out all the current styles at SteveMadden.com.

LOIS HILL ACCESSORIES from $100
She deserves something beautiful and unique, just like her. So give her classic, contemporary jewelry from the Lois Hill Collection. Each piece is meticulously crafted by fusing ancient techniques with cutting edge design. Hill's signature style combines three unrelated techniques, some dating back thousands of years, to create distinctive, elegant necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and cuffs (Emmy winner Michael Chiklis and actress Jill Hennessy are fans). Lois Hill has traveled the world and brings inspiration to her collections from visiting far off lands, such as her current collections inspired by the people living in remote villages of India and Africa. You can find the exquisite Lois Hill Accessories sterling silver jewelry collection through their website and at Nordstrom locations throughout the country.

JEN STONE SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL BELT BUCKLES prices vary
Designed and created by Malibu artist Jennifer Serig, Jen Stone's Swarovski Crystal belt buckles have been seen on a galaxy of stars and featured in many top magazines (most recently in the November 8th issue of Entertainment Weekly, page 49 of the Holiday Gift Guide). Jennifer has created custom designs for Nelly, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Jack Black. Every hand crafted Jenstone Malibu buckle comes on a genuine leather belt in a color to compliment the artisian's design. Looking for something special for that Superman in your life, or maybe a favorite Diva? Jen has a style to please everyone. Call JenStone's studio, 310.317.6737, for a catalog and more information.

HARD ROCK HOTEL - LAS VEGAS from under $100
Here's a gift idea they'll never forget, because who wouldn't love to spend time in Las Vegas? The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, the first ever hotel/casino with a rock & roll theme, is the perfect destination for the young and young-at-heart. It's hip, it's edgy, and it hosts a bevy of celebrities in a very cool atmosphere. The rooms have been recently remodeled and the hotel boasts an amazing pool area that might remind you of a calmer, more adult version of spring break. The Hotel offers a variety of restaurants - don't miss Simon's Kitchen and Bar - and gaming opportunities. For entertainment, The Hard Rock features The Joint, a 1,400-person capacity concert hall that has hosted the best rockers from yesterday and today, and the after hours nightclub "Baby's," which features trip hop dance and house music spun by top DJ's. The nightlife at the Hard Rock just can't be beat! From the casino, to the bar, to the clubs...no place else in Vegas comes close. For reservations (or Gift Certificates!) call toll-free 800-473-ROCK or visit the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino website.

CLAVA AVIATOR WEEKENDER BAG $230
A Clava Leather Travel Bag says you've arrived. The Aviator Weekender Bag from Clava's Quinley Collection is made from smooth leather with a polished, slight sheen and sophisticated style. It comes in two colors, café and black, and features hidden quick release snaps, two generous front zipper compartments for small garments and personal items, a small front zipper pocket and another large pocket on the back. The main compartment unzips completely to the fully lined interior and the nickel feet protect your bag's bottom. This particular style measures about 20 x 10 x 10 and has an adjustable/detachable padded shoulder strap. I recently took my Clava Weekender on a trip and was surprised by the attention my bag got - I have a feeling more than a few people will find one under their Christmas tree this year!

Well, now that I've pumped you up by easing your holiday shopping woes, you have to do something for me. If you read my monthly columns, you know that I'm an advocate of charitable causes and get especially excited when I hear about celebrities doing something for those less fortunate (see Celebs Strip for Charity Auction as an example). So, would you just take one more minute to learn about Planet Hope's plans to deliver at least 1,000 toys to children this Christmas? Read on ....

Because right now, there are 50,000 - 85,000 homeless people in the Los Angeles area. Ten thousand of them are children.

PLANET HOPE $20 and up
In 1991, Kelly Stone and her sister, actress Sharon Stone, founded Planet Hope, a non-profit organization devoted to assisting homeless families with food, shelter, clothing, and social activities. A decade later, Planet Hope has expanded to include additional programs to provide assistance to homeless and disadvantaged children and their families:

Camp Planet Hope blends traditional activities and medical services into a summer camp for children & their mothers;
Computer Hope provides technical training to work-willing adults;
Kids for Kids teaches computer technology to children in homeless shelters;
Planet Hope provides hope and dignity to homeless families. It is that simple and that important.

Planet Hope co-founder Kelly Stone was recently honored by the National Center on Family Homelessness for her selfless work on behalf of the 11 year old organization. Kelly donates her time to the day-to-day operations of the charity and tirelessly pursues funding opportunities to keep Planet Hope alive. Sharon Stone devotes time to Planet Hope and is also an advocate for AIDS projects and research. She recently received the Global Conference Institute's highest award for her work in the battle against AIDS. However, the Stone sisters don't volunteer to receive such accolades. They are simply committed to dedicating their personal energy to help create positive differences in the lives of others so they, in turn, can achieve productive, happy, healthy lifestyles. According to Extra, Kelly says that she and her sister inherited their big hearts from their mother Dorothy. She says, “In the toughest of times, she taught us to be giving to other people."

It was the night before Christmas ... and there was no house.

If you're in the Southern California area next week, you can help Planet Hope make Christmas special for the homeless children they serve. On Tuesday, December 17 (2002), hop on over to The Lounge in West Hollywood for a night of fun and dancing and the good feeling that comes from knowing you're doing something to help the community. Just bring your $20 cover charge and a new unwrapped toy that will go to a homeless child currently living in a temporary shelter during this holiday season. The evening also includes a raffle, appetizers, no host bar, and FUN. You can RSVP by calling 818-981-1420 or just show up at The Lounge, 9077 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood ... and the more, the merrier. If you're not in the L.A. area, dance anyway, then contact Planet Hope to see how you can help.

We wish you the happiest of holidays,

Linda