Masquerading

I like it when things aren't as they seem. As a little kid, I discovered that museums were great places to view art and great sources for presents. I always make a point to stop by museum stores to check out their often quirky and eclectic offerings, so much so that my Mom has accused me of being more interested in shopping than viewing art (might be true in some cases). MOCA is currently selling the above Warhol tote that disguises as a Campbell's soup box for $55. Although they've been on the market for awhile, I still get a kick out of the canvas bags from Thursday Friday, which are close cousins to Hermes' Birkins, but much easier on the wallet. Whether you're searching for a whimsical gift or are on a tight budget, these unique gifts will definitely attract some double-takes. 

2-in-1

Need the perfect gift for the fashionista who has everything? How about these Prada boots...heels...I mean, beels...bools? However you want to classify them, these four inch beauties will bring your girl closer to the fashion gods. 

Creative Cupid

It's almost Valentine's Day, and you know what that means--no flowers, no chocolate and no stuff animals! While I can't guarantee that your honey will love these presents, he or she cannot deny that there's more meaning behind these gifts than a box of Godiva. You know I'm a huge fan of handwritten cards; so, in addition to that love letter, how about this painted rock from Mediterranean Treasures, with the message, "Thanks for being my rock." Or if you want to stay away from sappy messages, "You rock!"

 

Or how about this unique box? I'm not suggesting that you propose, but use your imagination and hide a trinket or message inside (something like, "Thanks for grounding me" or "Thanks for all your love and support"). End Grain Wood Shoppe will even customize your box with the special day you met. 

Share your Valentine's Day gift ideas with me. Let's work together to impress Cupid!

Work and play hard

There are many options out there to jazz-up and cute-ify your phones, but I thought this was particularly cute and practical. If your girlfriend lives by the motto, "work hard, play hard," this is the perfect gift. Kate Spade's colorblocked case has a built-in pocket for the active networker to store her business cards. And when the sun goes down, the business cards can be replaced with credit cards for a night out on the town!   

                   

Poser

It's not a flattering term when it comes to describing people. But when it comes to gifts, I find it magical. Check out this clutch from Kate Spade. It looks like a book, but it's a purse! You can look studious and stylish at the same time (and have a permanent conversation starter). Kate Spade offers a "library" of different styles, but my favorite is The Great Gatsby, for it's design and colors and for the mere fact that I like the book. What better way to say "I remember your favorite book" in a stylish way? If Kate made a Marcel Proust one, I'd personally gift myself this $325 item, but for now, that will be my excuse. 

Going back to my (college) roots

I saw this WeWOOD watch advertised in a yoga magazine and was struck by how simply beautiful it was. It has the look of a metal watch, but it's made of wood! WeWOOD follows a similar philosophy to TOMS, in that it plants a tree for every timepiece sold. It's a nice concept, but I'm not completely sure I buy into the product description: "As alive as nature, your timepiece records your sensations and shares your experiences and may awaken memories from another time and place." It's a watch. It tells time. Let's just leave it at that. But, I do think it's perfect for the friend who lives in San Francisco who often sports North Face and only eats organic food. Or maybe just someone who appreciates design, like your architect friend.  

Mark it with a moon

I've always been a fan of dainty jewelry, and I'm a yogi. So when I stumbled upon gemagenta's moon necklace, I fell in love. I'll explain, because I know that my train of thought is not logical. I've been practicing yoga for several years, and one of my teachers likes to relate the phases of the moon to the intentions we set at the beginning of yoga practice. According to Ashtanga yoga, yogis should avoid practicing on moon days (full or new) since the moon affects our "prana," or balance. If you're interested in why, click here to learn more. Not sure if it's in my head, but I do feel the effects of the moon's pull during these particular days, and I've become more interested in the link between nature and feelings. 

The moon necklace captures all of this, and in a cute, dainty and personalized way. Lorena, the jewelry maker, custom makes each piece to commemorate special dates, engraving the lunar phase that corresponds to that memorable date, whether it's a birth, the-day-you-fell-in-love, engagement, new job or wedding date. The necklace is personalized on so many levels that it's hard to find a more unique piece (and at $33, it's a steal!).  

Maybe I should buy one to mark my first yoga session. What date would you choose?