Holiday Gift Guide 2007

Hip holiday wish list: Learn what looks are hot for the season

‘Tis the season to be merry ... and looking marvelous. While you're decking the halls or making the holiday party rounds, there are a number of styles and accessories that style forecasters predict will be the "in" looks of the autumn/winter season. These fashion items also make the perfect stocking stuffers or gifts for those special people in your life.

Jewelry and Accessories

Layering, stacking and mixing and matching metals are key components of jewelry looks for the season. Long necklaces and ropes are appealing in the winter months. Turtlenecks and sweaters make the perfect backdrop for a long pendant or striking rope without it being hidden by the collar. Remember, there are no hard-set rules for jewelry. Just make sure it fits your frame and face.

Consider jewelry from Wendy Culpepper to complement holiday looks and beyond. Their products are made from sterling silver, 14,000 vermeil, 14,000 gold, or 18,000 gold. A variety of different metals and options are used in the line to create choices for customers based on the style or price points they desire.

One of Wendy Culpepper's favorite supporters is talk-show host and cooking diva Rachel Ray. The jewelry is offered across the U.S. in upscale boutiques, fine jewelry stores, and on the Web at http://www.wendyculpepper.com. To contact the company directly, e-mail atsales@wendyculpepper or call 212-629-8161.

Handbags

The holiday season is about being on the go much of the time, and a stylish, high-quality bag is the perfect accessory whether you're shopping the sales or making the party circuit. For maximum versatility, choose bags that will adapt and complement your lifestyle, like those from Alexis Hudson.

Industry insiders have tagged the duo of Rachelle Copeland and Emily Ironi, masterminds of the Alexis Hudson Handbag Collection as "ones to watch." Their bags are a marriage of form and function, offering subtle, yet thoughtful, design elements such as hidden magnetic closures, penholders, adjustable straps, key chain clasps, and plenty of room for all the important things a busy woman needs. A variety of bag styles and color will coordinate with the muted shades of fall and winter or offer a splash of color when hitting the town.

Alexis Hudson handbags are available at Henri Bendel, select Neiman Marcus stores, Fred Segal and Kitson. To learn more, visit http://www.alexishudsoninc.com.

Eco-Friendly Fashion Essentials

The green movement has pushed beyond home-repair products and fuel conservation. Environmentally — and style — conscious individuals can dress the part while also helping to sustain the environment.

These pieces don't have to be hemp jumpers and tunics you'd expect from "organic" clothing. Stewart+Brown is a headlining force in fashion's movement toward a healthier lifestyle and sustainable business practices. This husband-and-wife-team puts together collections that are functional and fashionable enough to follow you through every step of every day — work, travel, yoga, or an evening out on the town.

The Stewart+Brown collection is composed of five product categories: ORGNC: the organic cotton line of pima, jersey, crepe, fleece and French terry knitwear; CSHMR: pure Mongolian cashmere sweaters and accessories knitted from the finest fibers from across the world; SURP+: a collection of apparel and accessories developed from exactly that — excess fabrics and materials, including organic cotton canvas, wool wovens, and technical nylon, from another manufacturer's production; KNITS: premium knitwear consisting of all natural fibers that are super soft, breathable, machine washable, and versatile; and GREEN: gorgeous and sophisticated designs that originate from fibers cultivated naturally such as hemp and linen, without the detriment of herbicides or pesticides. Visit http://www.stewartbrown.com for store listings and more information on gifts and trends.

Hats and Apparel

Surviving cold weather often involves being bundled up against the elements. But keeping toasty doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your sense of style.

A trend that remains popular and looks great paired with ever-versatile denim is vintage military. Military surplus is the driving force behind A. Kurtz, specializing in military hats and accessories. The brand was founded in 2003, shipping their first product in 2004. 2005 represented a year of concentration on accessories, in particular military caps and bags, and the love for these looks remains strong today. A. Kurtz pieces are made from textured cotton fabrics that are rugged and durable, but then washed down to an extremely soft vintage feel.

Visit http://www.akurtz.com for contact information and a complete store listing.

Jeans and Outerwear

Who says that the holiday tree and window displays are the only things to benefit from glistening silver and gold accents? This season use these popular metallic looks when dressing up or down.

You can't miss with comfortable, form-fitting jeans that hug all of the right curves. This season a few companies are adding special touches to give this wardrobe staple some extra pop. Metallic gold and silver glisten this season for Pepe Jeans London Holiday 2008 collection. Take the look of gold and silver for daytime or night, appearing as a subtle shimmer of thread in denim or make a bold statement with a shiny fur trimmed metallic jacket. Play up the sporty chic look and also stay warm with two bold metallic options from Pepe Jeans London outerwear. The "Roberta" with elastic waistband and "Rowena" with high rib hem, down filled jackets offer detachable fur trimmed hoods. Both jackets are available in colors gold and silver and have metal ID plates.

Pepe Jeans London denim and outerwear is available at Macy's or by calling 888-350-7373.