Designer on the Rise: Joanna Lau, Founder and CEO of Jemma

Between slaying it at work, grabbing drinks with her girlfriends and hitting the gym on a (semi) regular basis, the modern woman is busier than ever. While every girl boss has her own tricks to having it all, there's one thing any busy bee needs: A versatile purse. Switching bags every morning takes some valuable time out of your day, plus even the sharpest style maven may accidentally forget her apartment keys in the switch. With a versatile color palette and fashion-forward silhouettes that will take you from the office to happy hour, Jemma provides a chic alternative to the typical working bag. Here, founder and CEO Joanna Lau shares her style secrets and what's to come for the emerging brand.

Joanna Lau

The Trendologist: Tell me a little about yourself.  What did you do before launching Jemma?

Joanna Lau: I was a trader on Wall Street for four years after graduating from NYU Stern with a major in finance and statistics and a minor in music. I always had a keen interest in fashion. I worked part-time at Tommy Hilfiger's public relations department while at NYU and completed a summer course in fashion design at Parsons during high school. I founded Jemma in October 2015, and launched my first Work-Life Collection in January 2016.

TT: What inspired you to start your own line of handbags?

JL: While working in finance, my daily problem was not having a proper work bag that I could confidently carry that not only met my working and personal needs, but had the appropriate color, quality and professionalism. I found myself having to constantly accommodate to the constraints of my handbag. My girlfriends and colleagues had similar experiences, so I knew this was a void that needed to be filled. Jemma was created for the modern working woman who doesn’t want to sacrifice style, convenience or an entire paycheck for the right handbag.

The Emma Purse, $398, Jemma.

TT: How does Jemma differ from other purse brands on the market?

JL: Jemma fills a niche in the women’s handbag market for a well-designed, high quality handbag that serves the working woman’s daily needs. There are a lot of beautiful handbags available today, but I felt that fashion trumped function far too often. I had many bags that were pretty, but when I needed to carry my laptop or an important folder or file, it was awkward — which is both unattractive and unprofessional. I was frustrated that I couldn’t find a bag that addressed my needs for a functional accessory that was also gorgeous and appealed to all my senses like a luxury handbag.

TT: What was your approach to designing these bags?

JL: I did a lot of market research and interviews with working women to find out exactly what their pain points were with the options that existed for work bags.  Clearly an area for a laptop, file and/or folder is essential, and a sleeve for a tablet is important too. Our key attachment snaps into the bag so they’re easy to find, and easy to grab. Our interior a lighter color to avoid the proverbial “black hole” of a larger handbag. A pen holder, a lipstick holder and card slots were [also] non-negotiables. For both style and function, we have an optional cross-body strap and a full closure top for those who commute via mass transit.

TT: Your career history is very different from most designers. What advice would you give individuals who also want to get their start in the fashion industry?

JL: You don’t have to have a conventional design background to succeed in the fashion industry. For me, the Jemma brand is really an extension of who I am, what I love and my personal style. I think a strong brand has to come from within. That way, you know it best and you will know how to make it happen.

The Jojo Purse, $358, Jemma.

TT: I know playing favorites is nearly impossible, but which bag is your favorite: the Emma or the Jojo?

JL: Currently I have been switching between all bags and colorways depending on my outfit. If I had to choose just one, I’d pick the Navy “Emma” Work Bag when I need my laptop during the day and the Ballet “JoJo” Life Bag when I’m out on the weekends because its simply exudes ladylikeness!

TT: Where do you see the brand in five years?

JL: We are working on a few exciting things now. Stay tuned because we’ll be sticking around!

Can't get enough of Jemma? Be sure to follow the brand on Instagram and Twitter.

xx

A Fashion Girl's Guide to Dressing for Valentine's Day

Once upon a time, sometime when you were in elementary school, Valentine's Day used to include distributing kitschy cards to everyone in your class and overloading on pink and red garb. If you were really lucky, Sweetheart candies were thrown into the mix. Now, it's a little different. The only person you receive a Valentine from is your mother, significant other or bitter single best friend. And unless you're starring in a Hallmark Channel movie, you wouldn't be caught dead wearing those standard hues on the big day. But rest assured, dear reader: there is a way to look festive and deniably fashion-forward. Regardless of your relationship status, check out these pieces that will up the ante of your Valentine's Day ensemble.

Event #1 : Sexy Date Night

Although a romantic dinner wtih your partner may sound cliché, consider February 14 the perfect excuse to go to that swanky restaurant you've been dying to try. But just because your plans veer towards basic territory doesn't mean your outfit needs to. Stay far away from that crimson bodycon dress and update your date night look with an airy silhouette that still shows just the right amount of skin. This lace-trimmed pick from Vetements teeters between edgy and romantic, plus your partner is going to love that plunging neckline. A strappy sandal would be a perfect addition, but let's not forget it's February. And in February -- especially this weekend for those Northeasterners -- it's going to be epcially cold. So, as a pretty great plan B, opt for a pair of thigh-high boots and a duster coat: the mix of clashing lengths will add an extra oomph to this outfit. A funky crossbody -- like this one from Rochas -- and a sweep of a smokey eye will have your beau totally smitten.

Vetements Dress, $1,215, matchesfashion.com



Rochas Bag, $879.50, farfetch.com



Gianvito Rossi Over-the-Knee Boots, $1,675, net-a-porter.com

Takashi Duster Coat, $330, topshop.com

Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette, $54, sephora.com

Event #2: Single Ladies Dinner

Who needs a man when you have your squad of fabulous single ladies? Exactly. A girl's night out is the perfect way to stop sulking about that Tinder date gone so, so wrong, not to mention you can wear exactly what you what without fearing that a guy won't find your crazy clothes sexy. So why not completely push the envelope almost to the point of no return? Who knows -- you may very well be in a relationship next year and your risky threads will not fly. COS's silky jumpsuit screams "independent woman" (without looking too flashy) and will look great with a pair of ladylike pumps. Sure, a onesies and BB pumps are fun, but why don't you really make a statement with a fun (faux) fur coat? A neutral pick is always classic, but a colorful one from British brand Shrimps is cheeky enough for your ladies' night. In order to tie in the classic with the zany, opt for a neutral-hued clutch that's a little bit of both (just like this one from Charlotte Olympia) On the beauty front, add a red lip: it'll give your ensemble a subtly festive kick and, since you're most likley in a smooch-free zone, you won't have to worry about getting it all over your dinner guests.

Silk Jumpsuit, on sale for $90, cosstores.com

Manolo Blahnik Suede BB Pumps, $595, barneys.com

Kylie Coat, approximately $826, shrimps.co.uk

Charlottle Olympia Clutch, $1,165, net-a-porter.com

Matte Revolution Lipstick in 'Walk of Shame,' $32, charlottetilbury.com

Event #3: Cozy Night in with Your Beau

Hitting up the hottest restaurants and bars is tempting; however, there's nothing quite like "Netflix and chilling" with your significant other. But let's not forget that it's still Valentine's Day, which means that styling an outfit from your expansive collection of sweats is a no-go. The key to sporting an ensemble that's casual enough for your man (but fashion-forward enough for you) is adding jeans. Paired with culottes, this subtle tie-neck blouse from Mango  (which is a light enough shade of pink to look style saavy than festive) would is man-averse. But with a pair of relaxed boyfriend jeans? It's cool, unassuming and definitely boy toy-approved. And these vintage Levi's are especially great because they offer that "borrowed from the boys" flair without adding an imaginary bulk to your frame. Since you'll most likely be strolling around in a pair of socks -- or even barefoot -- be sure to accessorize with a few stacked rings to keep this look fashion girl-friendly. And let's not forget that it's Valentine's Day. If you're hanging around the house with your partner, a seductive pair of bra and panties is a necessity. This mesh set from Cosabella is the cool girl's take on lacy lingerie, plus it will slip nicely under your ensemble.



Tie-Neck Blouse, on sale for $29.99, mango.com

Vintage Levi Boyfriend Jeans, $150, theline.com



Mignon Memory Ring, $48 each, catbirdnyc.com



Cosabella Soire Mesh Underwired Bra, $65 (matching briefs for $25), net-a-porter.com

Event #4: Cozy Night in with Yourself

Regardless of your relationship status, we can all agree that Valentine's Day tends to pack on unnecessary pressure. Some people love it, others hate it. If you find yourself rolling your eyes with each bouquet of roses you see on February 14, it wouldn't be that shocking if your plans were chilling in your jammies and catching up on The People v. OJ Simpson. Because, after all, your priorities are clearly in check. Instead of throwing on your ratty college sweats, try your luck with some luxe loungewear. Trust us, you'll need something to enjoy when you're scrolling through dozens of nauseatingly romantic Instagrams. Between the ladylike pattern and silk-satin blend, this pair of jammies from Olivia von Halle has glamour written all over it. Sticker shock aside, be honest: you've been longing for a pretty pair of hostess pajamas. Paired with some slick metallic slippers? Sartorial bliss.  Hiding from the sappiness parade that is Valentine's Day doesn't require fancy gems or a killer purse, but you may find it useful to invest in some beauty extras. This Origins charcoal mask enchances your complexion, plus it's the perfect sidekick for some much-needed "me time." And, when you're ready to hit the hay, a silky eye mask will ensure you end Valentine's Day in style.

Olivia von Halle Silk-Satin Pajamas, $525, net-a-porter.com

Patricia Green Coco Slippers, $109.95, nordstrom.com

Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask, $25, birchbox.com

Slip Silk Eye Mask, $40, net-a-porter.com

What will you be wearing on Valentine's Day? Sound off below.

xx

5 Best Dressed from the 2016 Critics Choice Awards

With the Golden Globes, SAGs, Grammys and Academy Awards in a one and a half month span, it's easy for the Critics Choice Awards to fall under the radar. But, between Jacob Tremblay's adorable acceptance speech for his "Best Young Actor" win to T.J. Miller's opening monologue with dancing critic puppets, last night's ceremony was not to be missed. And in an unforeseen turn of events, the fashion wasn't half bad either -- or at least better than this year's Golden Globes. Read on for the five best looks from the 2016 Critics Choice Awards.

Alicia Vikander in Mary Katrantzou: With several magazine covers, award nominations and best dressed nods, it's no secret that Vikander is Hollywood's new it girl. Fortunately, the Ex-Machina and The Danish Girl star did not disappoint. This look is equal parts sophisticated and spunky: the modest silhouette and high neckline is juxtaposed with a very quirky pattern that has London designer Mary Katrantzou's name all over it. The minimal accessories and coiffed updo allowed this dress to be celebrated instead of turning into an inevitable victim of over-styling. And, as an ideal finishing touch, a soft rose pout subtly picks up the red in the pattern.

Kirsten Dunst in Chanel Haute Couture: Whether you're an Amazonian model or a mere mortal, tiered dresses tend to be dicey: simply one extra tier or superfluous fabric can have anyone looking like a '90s Barbie birthday cake or cartoon princess. But here, dressed in Chanel Haute Couture, Dunst found a happy medium. Not only are the sparse tiers thick enough to fall into an overtly frilly stereotype, they are positioned just right to flatter her figure. Truth be told, if the middle tier were placed any lower, she would've looked especially hippy instead of blessed with a subtle pear-shape. And with that much sparkle, this ivory dress was smartly accessorized with a dainty bracelet and ladylike satin shoes. Plus, the red lip paired with the dress's neutral shade gave this cool look a classic, old Hollywood twist.

Rachel McAdams in Elie Saab: As talented as the French designer is, it's easy to think that he's a bit of a one note. After all, how many sparkly, full-skirt frocks can you see by the same designer before it becomes redundant? This slim, see-through number is singing a completely different tune. And who better to wear such an edgy, youthful, yet still polished, getup than McAdams? From the lack of accessories, to the wavy lob to the striking berry lip, the whole look was executed immaculately. Just a week ago, McAdams was cascading down the Golden Globes red carpet in a ho-hum, floral frock by Lanvin, that suggested she's way older than 37 years-old. Both age and event appropriate, the former Regina George makes us all idolize her once again.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane: She's one of those people who could wear a burlap sack -- or bed sheet as she seemingly did in Mad Max: Fury Road -- and have all onlookers green with envy. But, in such a cool dress as this Saint Laurent number, she's an automatic best dressed. What makes this look so cool is the unconventional neckline. Sure, everyone ooohs and aaahs at a symmetrical, plunging v-neck, but there's something so refreshing about this uneven dip. And combined with the high-slit, spaghetti straps and bare back, this dress totally pays homage to the '90s supers. Obsessed.

Krysten Ritter in Zuhair Murad: Breaking Bad, Don't Trust the B**** in Apartment 23, and Jessica Jones. Let's face it: Ritter is more known for her ability to transform into a slew of different characters than her red carpet style. But a vision in a maroon Zuhair Murad gown, this instance is definitely worth mentioning. It's easy for any awards show getup to have some major sparkle overload, but this dress only boasts sparkles right around the torso, making the eye go directly to Ritter's narrow waist. Not to mention the proper, pleated skirt was balanced with a sultry deep block neckline, providing an ideal mix of sultry and sophisticated.  To keep the outfit cohesive, the silver earrings and clutch highlighted the dress' sparkle.

Which looks did you love from last night's event? Sound of below

Photos courtesy of Huffington Post and Lainey Gossip

xx

Red Carpet Review: 2016 Golden Globes

The Golden Globes mean a lot of different things for different people. For the awards-obsessed, it's kicking off the most wonderful time of the year. Those who scour through TMZ on an hourly basis light up whenever they see a winner or presenter who has had a few too many drinks before hitting the podium. And for the fashion flock? The dawn of countless water cooler chats and keeping score of some seriously chic red carpet moments. Overall, this year's slew of looks fell flat. While it's easy to blame the lack of options -- Spring Couture 2016 and Autumn Ready-to-Wear 2016 are weeks away -- we can't  help but think of the mindblowing Golden Globe getups from Lupita Nyong'o and Emma Stone of years past. As always, however, there a healthy mixture of the good, the bad, and Cate Blanchett's borderline-costumey Givenchy dress. Missed the red carpet? Read on for all the best (and worst) moments from the 2016 Golden Globes.

The Worst

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy: "She can do no wrong," any avid fashion follower has probably told themself (and anyone else who would listen) about Cate Blanchett's forever exciting sartorial choices. On Sunday, we were proven wrong. Sure, budoir is a macrotrend for the impending spring season. Sure, nobody captures the trend better than Givenchy's Ricardo Tisci. But something about this look instigated more cringes than coos for Team Trendologist. Not only did the color read cheap on camera, the heavy dose of fringe veered into costume territory, which is a big no especially for an event as mainstream as the Globes. Perhaps it would've been more event-appropriate in a sultry black or even a better match for the CFDA Awards of Met Gala this summer, but it was a miss here. 

Malin Akerman in Reem Acra: In the runway world, peplum (like any trend) has its series of ups and downs. But on the red carpet? It's a timeless way to give any basic column dress a jolt of energy. And thanks to the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Michelle Williams, the unofficial guide to wearing peplums to an awards show was born. Rule number one? No floppy fabric. Malin Akerman, we're looking at you. While a completely sturdy peplum has the power to create an illusion of a thinner waist -- and land she who sports it on the best dressed list -- a more malleable iteration does the exact opposite. Not only did it look like a sloppy last-minute addition to an otherwise beautifully boring dress, it also looked like she was hiding some extra, unwanted holiday pounds. On the bright side, the soft hue and embroidery work were gorgeous.

America Ferrera in Jenny Packham: While her bit with Telenova star Eva Longoria during the ceremony arguably stole the show, her look wasn't something to applaud. The good news is that the funnywoman looks wonderful in yellow, not to mention that silhouette is extremely flattering on her. The bad news? The rows and rows of crystals. Yes, award shows are supposed to be fun, glitzy and glamorous, but the embellishments felt more reminsicent of a theater kid's dance recital costume circa 1993 or some toned down BeDazzler work. With her slicked-back do, a pair of statement earrings (and no crystals on the dress) would've been a better choice for the Superstore actress.

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior: Another year, another Dior moment brought to you by Team J.Law. But unlike her other partnerships with the French fashion house, this ensemble felt extremely contrived. Alone, and with sweeping beachy waves, this Dior gown could've looked modern and sexy on Hollywood's resident sweetheart. But instead, Lawrence looked like a middle-aged pageant mom. It's easy to blame a lot of things for this fail -- the matronly hair and the loud necklace are just two solid examples -- but at the end of the day, it all comes down to over styling. Media outlets of all varieties convince us that the Hunger Games star is the coolest woman in entertainment, so her coolness should shine through with youthful locks and minimal accessories, especially when wearing such a structural gown.

Jane Fonda in Yves Saint Laurent Couture: Ethereal ruffles are having a moment right now, but there's nothing chic about a ruffle overload. From the waist down, the dress fits the 78-year-old actress perfectly. But on top? It looked more like she threw on her grandchild's costume petticoat for fun, because clearly all grandchildren have a teeny petticoats lying around for fun. Not only does it feel extremely clownish, but the look as a whole is unbalanced: so much focus on one half of the body doesn't allow a full, cohesive look. Not that anyone should touch Yves Saint Laurent couture, but even cutting off a layer would make the world's difference.

Regina King in Krikor Jabotian: Where to begin? Shall we talk about the slew of super-sized paillettes that were basically swallowing the American Crime actress whole? Or what about the sheer train that made onlookers wonder if King rushed to the red carpet from a Cirque du Soleil performance? The outdated, 40's-inspired hair? Perhaps we should point out that those shoes, especially combined with the extravagance of this dress, are completely mis-matched. Are you trying to give a thumbs up, Regina? Because the entire look is a major thumbs down.

The Best

Kate Bosworth in Dolce & Gabbana: Attention all future award show presenters: wear something like this. It's an unspoken red carpet rule a presenter should never upstage a nominee, and this glitzy number definitely fit the bill. The column silhouette is extremely frills-free; however, the sequins add a jolt of energy to an otherwise ho-hum shape. And luckily, this Dolce & Gabbana dress set itself apart from the rest of those sheeny column dresses with this fun pink hue. To keep this look polished and mature, Bosworth sported a ladylike chignon and a soft pink pout. 

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton: As the face of Louis Vuitton, it's no surprise that the twice-nominated actress would sport the famed French house to her big night. But instead of donning something straight from the runway, creative director Nicolas Ghesquière created this custom gown that's equal parts feminine and modern. The pinafore-esque bodice and slight pleats pay some serious homage to her role in The Danish Girl, which she scored a nomination for Best Leading Actress, not to mention this is an ideal amount of ruffles, Jane Fonda. But from the subtle sequins to the edgy criss-crossed back, Vikander served up some ultimate cool girl style here.

Kirsten Dunst in Valentino Haute Couture: As a nominee for her role in Fargo, Dunst wowed with a black gown. Wowed with a black gown? "Is that even possible?" you're probably asking yourself. The answer is yes. With a plush texture and boxy, plunging neckline, this dress gave all the other LBDs a run for their money. Not only did this dress fit Dunst like a glove,  it's also perfectly accessorized: the minimal jewels complete the look without competing with the dress's eye-catching bodice. And on the beauty front, the nude lip and updo were both youthful and sophisticated.

Olivia Wilde in Michael Kors Collection: Unlike some of Sunday's other attendees -- here's to you, Alicia Vikander and Cate Blanchett -- Wilde is not your bonafide fashion girl: she always looks good and that's all there is to it. But in this sequined Michael Kors Collection? She was a true vision. First of all the color is amazing: it's more exciting than black, less summery than Amy Adam's tomato red hue and wintry enough without looking drab.  Paired with a matching choker necklace, the plunging neckline created an illusion of an obtuse keyhole, which has "chic" written all over it. And, as for her beauty regime, the sleek middle part added a very cool sense of symmetry.

Which looks did you love from the 2016 Golden Globes? Sound off below!

Images courtesy of Huffington Post

xx

The Trendologist 2015 Gift Guide: The Foodie

Finding gifts for your nearest and dearest (let alone those frenemies you drew from a Secret Santa picking) is hard. Securing actually stylish presents? Even harder. Welcome to the annual Trendologist Gift Guide, the chicest guide to finding presents for those super niche people in your life.

You may like trying new restaurants and dishes, but the foodie in your life is borderline obsessed with food. She knows the difference between taragon and cayenne, plus she's tried the most abstract cuisine before you've even read about it. Sure, it may be annoying to pause after each bite and analyze all the ingredients in each dish ("I wonder which olive grove these were grown in," she contemplates when you -- and most people-- couldn't care less), but the fact of the matter is that you always eat well with your cuisine connoisseur. Show your gastronome just how much your appreciate her quirky food habits with gifts that will tug at her heart strings -- and taste buds.

The French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook by Mireille Guiliano, about $15: Giving a foodie a cookbook for Christmas isn't very groundbreaking; however, when it comes to tasty tomes, it doesn't get chicer than Mireille Guiliano's "The French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook." From fashion to food, most people aspire to have a typical French woman's je ne nais quoi, and this book allows your recipient to eat like her dream woman (all without gaining some additional pounds). And don't think of this pick as Weight Watchers with a couple ouis  thrown into the mix: this book perfectly blends enjoying food with  keeping that willowy frame. And with everything from chocolate mousse to carbonara inside, this is a book that any foodie will readily support.

Sperlari Italian Gianduja Zanzibar, $6: Forget those Godiva chocolates. Anyone with a sweet tooth will appreciate any mall bought-- or, for that matter, pharmacy-bought chocolates--  but what they really want? A milky dessert that will leave them begging for more. Created in Italy, Gianduja mixes a little bit of chocolate with hazelnuts from the Langhe hills south of Turin. But in non-epicure terms, think of this bar as a more luxurious, solidified version of Nutella, which will instantly be a crowd-pleaser this holiday season. As an added bonus, this will make an excellent stocking stuffing for even the most novice foodies in your life. 

Atom Art Serving Bowl, $24: For any munchie maniac, decorative bowls are the art books for museum rats: there's no such thing as too many, plus they make for an expressive (and extensive) collection. Dishwasher and microwave safe, this feminine bowl from Anthropologie is perfect for both reheating last night's take out order and stowing popcorn for your latest Netflix binge. The silhouette is simple; however, the girly mint green pattern and marigold trim are sure to add some fun to any stodgy shelf, not to mention it's porcelain material will last your recipient may years to come.

Denim Cross-Back Apron, $109: Anyone who is obsessed with all courses from appetizer to desserts is most likely to dabble in the kitchen. If you hear your favorite foodie lament about her cooking woes, gift her this super sleek apron. Inspired by Dutch iterations and hand-sewn in New York, the urban denim take on the apron is perfect for your frills-free giftee, plus its sleekness is way more Michelin Star than Magnolia Cupcakes. And with a criss-cross back, two pockets and a loop for a dish rag, this pick is equal parts practical and stylish.

Tom Dixon Plum Ice Bucket, $209: Some say that food can be art; however, there's no reason why the things you store your most important ingredients in can't also be art. Take this ice bucket from Tom Dixon, for example. Made of mouth-blown glass,  this is a far cry from those dinky ones you find at an all-inclusive resort. Whether in use or capped with the hand-painted copper lid, this piece will become a standout accessory on any bar cart, and double as a piece of unique art when idle. And that, ladies and gents, is a gifting win-win. 

Rifle Paper Co Citrus Recipe Box, $34:   A tell-tale sign of being a major gourmand? Compulsively swapping recipes with fellow foodies. While erasing that "Recipes" note on her smartphone is just one false tap away, giving your recipient a cutesy recipe box is a no brainer. This one from Rifle Paper Co., for example, comes with its own set of recipe cards, which will make it that easier for your giftee to transfer her digital notes to paper. Plus, the funky, retro print and tin exterior offers a vintage vibe to any counter.

A.J Oil Drizzler, $78: This season, tell your favorite foodie to say goodbye to those plastic olive oil containers and hello to a sleeker model. Just like salt and pepper, oil is something your giftee will have in her kitchen at all times. But instead of hiding that generic bottle in the depths of her pantry, this cool pick from A.J will make her want to showcase her oil for all to see.  This minimalist glass shape is frills-free, but the cheery yellow hue will add some much-needed energy to a cooking staple.

Olympia Provisions Salami of the Month Club, $145: The best part about being a self-declared foodie? Having an expert opinion of different types of cuisines and essential foods. While you may be inclined to roll your eyes at those cliched "Fruit of the Month" or "Wine of the Month" clubs, you have to admit that they do help any inspiring foodie become more knowledgable. However, spice it up this holiday season with Olympia Provision's Salami o the Month Club. Each month, members will receive about 4.5 oz of the prized meat along with some tasting notes. As Joey Tribbiani once said, "Here come the meat sweats."

Laguiole en Aubrac Ebony Salad Servers, $398: The secret to a chic kitchen isn't just filling your refrigerator and party with the most decadent-- and Instagram-worthy -- ingredients: using stylish wares is another must. A combination of  a stainless steel fork and spoon combination as well as ebony handles, this set from Laguiole en Aubrac requires over 100 steps to manufacture. Translation? You know you're gifting your foodie long-lasting tools. And lucky for you, this set is definitely versatile to blend in nicely with any kitchen. 

What are you getting your favorite foodie this season? Sound off below.

xx

The Trendologist 2015 Gift Guide: The Fashion Girl

Finding gifts for your nearest and dearest (let alone those frenemies you drew from a Secret Santa picking) is hard. Securing actually stylish presents? Even harder. Welcome to the annual Trendologist Gift Guide, the chicest guide to finding presents for those super niche people in your life.

Buying presents for anyone is a challenge, but consider gifting that fashion girl in your life to be ten times worse. Not only is her well-curated wardrobe a tough act to follow, but everything you think of as cool and a viable present she's probably had for at least six months already. But before you give up or opt for a gift card to Bergdorf Goodman (which she'll like, but where's the creativity in that?), feast your eyes on ten gifts that any trendsetter will adore.

Altuzarra Ghianda Knot Small Saddle Bag. $2,195:  Buying accessories for the fashion girl in your life is an easy win: they're versatile and unless a gift is absolutely horrendous, she'll find a way to wear it. However, getting her an "it" accessories from a top-knotch designer will have her worshipping you for years to come, all while silently complimenting your excellent taste. Handbags are new for New York designer (and fashion royalty) Joseph Altuzarra, and this saddle bag is pretty amazing (sticker shock aside, of course). Not only is this purse made of super  soft leather, the tassel will instantly elevate any ensemble, plus navy is a more fetching neutral than a stodgy black or grey. 

Diptyque Sapin Candle, from $35 for 2.4 oz: Not looking to drop thousands of dollars on your chicest friend? We don't blame you, but consider this festive candle an equally luxe (yet affordable) option. If candle brands had catty, high school stereotypes, Diptyque's would be the cool, popular and well-dressed one that everyone wanted to be. Founded by a trio of artful Parisians -- interior designer Christiane Gautrot, painter Demond  Knox- Leet and director Yves Coueslant -- Diptyque boasts an array of inviting, unique and fancy scents. Your fashion-forward friend probably has loads of the brand's traditional scents her disposal, but Sapin is a more seasonal blend that she'll also love. With a base of pine trees and hints of mandarin, this one provides a whole new take on a holiday scent.

Cos Long Contrast Panel Shirt, $99: Here's a best kept secret about most fashion girls: the ones who eat, breathe and sleep fashion don't usually parade around in extravagant full looks from the latest runway show. Instead, they tend to keep their daily ensemble simple with quality, modern pieces. Add to your recipient's minimal wardrobe with this top from Cos. At first glance, it looks like an average button-down, but the smallest details -- pointed collar, graduated hemline and streamlined silhouette -- pack on the punch and will easily elevate any ensemble. Plus, it can be worn with essentially anything, so expect your recipient to stock up on this shirt in the months to come.

Where's Karl?: A Fashion-Forward Parody, $16: Forget what you saw in The Devil Wears Prada,  having a style and a sense of humor need not be mutually exclusive. This season, bring those two together with fashion's fun take on "Where's Waldo?": "Where's Karl?". While you and your recipient are pillaging through the pages to find the Chanel creative director, don't be surprised to also spot illustrated incarnations of other tastemakers: Anna Wintour, Bill Cunningham, Carine Roitfeld and Choupette, Lagerfeld's cat, all make appearances in this cheeky tome. As an added bonus, it will be a wonderful addition to her ever-growing stack of art books.  Translation? Picking up this present is pure genius. 

Mizuki Sea of Beauty White Pearl Earrings, $680: Getting a girl jewelry for the holidays is a no-brainer, but for a fashion girl? The stakes have gotten about ten times higher. With a jewelry armoire already filled with everything from topaz and tourmaline, finding something that will truly wow her is not an easy feat. Luckily, these earrings from Mizuki are the perfect blend between traditional and modern. Pearls are something that every woman can wear with a slew of outfits, and the thin (yet dramatic) dangling structure prevents these from looking too mumsy-- not to mention that the tiny white diamond accents make these comparable to expensive fine jewelry while being reasonably priced. And that, dear reader, is an accessories win-win. 

For Restless Sleepers Printed Pajama Shirt, $699: As stylist-turned- designer Rachel Zoe once said, "Glamor is a state of mind." Most style savants heed this advice and strive to live their lives as fashionably as possible around the clock. It's hard to compete with closets full of daytime attire, eveningwear and accessories; however, a super swanky set of jammies will not only be a viable addition, it'll also allow her slumbers to be a stylish affair. This silk set from Francesca Ruffini's For Rest Sleepers will ensure a cozy slumber, and this punchy print adds some much-needed life to your recipient boudoir threads. Sure, the top alone costs a pretty penny, but think about it this way: add a pair of boyfriend jeans and this top can easily be worn during awake hours.

Charlotte Tilbury "The Supermodel" Set, $245: For most tastemakers, an interest in fashion and beauty go hand in hand. After all, radiant skin and perfectly coiffed hair are the ultimate finishing touches to any well-edited ensemble. While the British makeup guru has several makeup sets for every girl -- "the Bombshell" and "the Sophisticate" are just two examples -- "the Supermodel" set is perfect for anyone who wants to adopt an effortless glam makeup regime. And since nobody wants to look like they caked on pounds of foundation, we like to think this kit is suited for everyone. If the bevy of products for lips, eyes and face doesn't impress her, she will definitely adore the cute lipstick marked case. 

Victoria, Victoria Beckham Cropped Mid-Rise Flare Jeans, $395: Sure, giving your resident queen of chic smart, versatile pieces is a safe option; however, there are loads of trends that she probably loves but would never buy for herself. Case in point: statement denim. From patchwork to innovative silhouettes, denim has gotten a lot more exciting over the past few seasons. Breathe some much-needed life into her denim game with this affordable pair by Victoria, Victoria Beckham. From the refreshing shape to the quirky coloring, one thing's for sure: these are a lot cooler than your run of the mill skinny jeans. Whether she pairs this with an oversized turtleneck or a simple T-shirt, these pants will be stylish all year round.

Fornasetti Chess and Card Set, $1,085: When finding particularly chic clothes and accessories fails, find something that will add some style for your giftee's home. While that ultra-soft cashmere throw and printed pillow are great options, they tend to be a bit predictable. This year, think outside of the box with this game set from Fornasetti. While it's not the cheapest option, this set blends practicality and entertainment with a surrealist flair that will look great on your recipient's coffee table when idle. And with a set of dice, cards, chess and checker pieces, the virtually endless gaming options will bring your giftee and her loved ones together for hours. And isn't that priceless?

Malone Souliers Veronica Suede and Leather Flats, $547: Gone are the days when trendsetters were forced to sport five-inch stilettos on a daily basis. Thanks for several footwear phenomenons including Alessandro Michele's fur-lined loafers at Gucci and Adidas's ubiquitous Stan Smith silhouette, having your heels are on the ground is in. Whether your fashionable recipient has a penchant for heels or for flats, she's going to love these kicks from cult favorite Malone Souliers. The technical strap work makes these just as fancy as a pair of heeled sandals while tiny wooden heel will make these comfortable for even the fussiest fashionista. Plus, the versatile colorway will have your giftee wearing these well after the new year .

What will you get your fashion girl this year? Sound off below.

xx