SICKA THAN AVERAGE

May The Force Be With You -- Adidas Originals' Star Wars Collection

 

I'll admit: I'm not one of those people who can recite every memorable quote from the original Star Wars trilogy. Granted, the first Star Wars flick came out before I was even born, and I was only a year old when The Empire Strikes Back hit movie theaters. Still, we watched the original Star Wars trilogy enough times for me to develop a fondness for the characters and their galactic dealings. Like most '80s babies, I tried to rock the Princess Leia 'do (the braided, coiled buns covering each ear like oversize earmuffs), a style I would never even think about toying with now — well, unless I was trying to avoid jury duty Liz Lemon style (by pretending to be a loony, Princess Leia wannabe). My dad, meanwhile, suffered through many a Chewbacca joke (he's uncannily hairy, which made him an easy mark for all of us wiseass types). Like any family coming up in the '80s, then, we were heavily influenced by the Star Wars phenomenon. And while the Star Wars prequels (starring Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen and Sam Jackson) also created a frenzy, I could never quite muster the same type of enthusiasm for those films. For me, there was nothing like the original three.

So, like any George Lucas devotee, I was pretty excited to hear Adidas Originals was launching a new Star Wars-themed collection of apparel and footwear. Sure, I wasn't polishing my fake light saber or reaching for some C-3PO-shaped Pez dispenser, but I did smile sheepishly over the news. Unfortunately for my petite self, the collection consists mainly of men's sneakers and clothes, so there's nothing that would fit my small feet (or my frame, for that matter). But if you're a fellow sneakerhead, and you have large enough feet to rock men's sneakers, consider adding some of these kicks to your collection.

My absolute favorite kicks in the collection are the Adidas Originals Star Wars Famous Scenes Micropacers, pictured second from top, which features silver uppers that shimmer in the light for an outer space feel. The left sneaker features an image of Chewbacca along the toebox, while the right features Han Solo standing in front of Obi-Wan Kenobi along the toebox. Along the side panel of the left sneaker, you'll spot an image of the iconic light saber fight between Darth Vader and Obi-Wan. The outsole, meanwhile, features blue, white, and red strips of color arranged to look like light saber beams. These kicks are available in women's sizes (check out FlightClubNY.com), so that's the icing on my Millenium Falcon cupcake. The Micropacer kicks are, of course, the most limited release out of the bunch, so cop them now before they vanish to a galaxy far, far away.

Adidas Originals Star Wars Superstar Darth Vader Track Top, $100; Adidas Originals Star Wars Micropacer Famous Scenes Sneakers, $200; Adidas Originals Storm Trooper Superskate Mid Sneakers, $100; and Adidas Originals ZX 8000 Darth Vader Sneakers, $150. Available at Adidas Originals stores and at ShopAdidas.com
 

Bring On The Funk With Miss Wit's Zaire 74 Vintage Tees

If you're a digging-in-the-crates, respect-your-elders, do-your-research music lover, then you've probably heard of the Zaire '74 Festival, during which some of the era's most accomplished and renowned soul, salsa, blues, funk, and Afro-pop musicians performed alongside the hottest acts in Africa, staging a dynamic three-day concert in Kinshasa, Zaire. James Brown, Celia Cruz, Bill Withers, and B.B. King were among those headlining the event. To many, the concert was profoundly symbolic — it demonstrated how music can bring about unity within the entire African diaspora, and it stood as black music's answer to Woodstock. The mythology surrounding the 'Zaire 74 festival has lived on for over 35 years and, next month, documentary filmmaker Jeffrey Levy-Hint will be sharing the magic with audiences through the DVD release of his documentary, Soul Power, which incorporates archival footage from the historic event.

Just weeks before the DVD release of Soul Power (which ships on February 6th), Miss Wit has unveiled her unique line of film-centered apparel, which features the original, official "Zaire '74" artwork created exclusively for the festival. In fact, when you check out the Soul Power documentary, you're bound to see performers and band member sporting T-shirts emblazoned with the 'Zaire 74 design. I love the vintage t-shirt pictured above, which features the classic Zaire '74 artwork along the front and the Soul Power logo along the back. The tee fabric was treated to give it a weathered, vintage look, with distressed details along the seams. An organic cotton version, manufactured using wind-powered energy sources, is also available, along with an embroidered cap, and value packages including a shirt and the Soul Power DVD itself.

Let your soul glow, chicas!

Miss Wit's Zaire '74 Soul Power The Vintage Tee, $38. Visit MissWit.net

Zoe Saldana And Rose Byrne Go For Soft, Wavy Hair At The 2010 Golden Globes

 

One of the most prominent hair trends at this year's Golden Globe Awards was soft, romantic, slightly messy waves. Both Avatar star Zoe Saldana and Damages co-star Rose Byrne opted for similar 'dos, parting their hair to the side and donning soft, natural-looking waves. It was also a look favored by Emily Blunt (whose look I broke down for you yesterday), Fergie, and Penelope Cruz, among other stars. I was fascinated as I watched these looks on the red carpet — particularly since these romantic, ultra feminine hairstyles were also prevalent in some of the Spring/Summer 2010 runway shows in New York City (the Alice + Olivia SS10 show, for example, comes to mind). I predict we'll be seeing way more of this look as spring comes into bloom.

So how to get these looks? Let's start with Zoe Saldana. Celebrity stylist Mara Roszak tended to the Dominican damsel's hair. To get the look, Roszak suggests applying TRESemme 24 Hour Body Foaming Mousse to damp hair, then parting it to the side and blowdrying it with a round brush. Next, she suggests spraying a soft hold hairspray, like TRESemme's 24 Hour Body Finishing Spray, all over the head and curling the hair using a 1" barrel curling iron, working diligently through 1" sections. Once each section has been curled, Roszak suggests pinning the twisted sections to the scalp. Next, let the pin curls set for 10 minutes and brush the hair gently to maintain but soften the shape. Next, apply a tad of TRESemme Anti-Frizz Secret Smoothing Creme to tame fly-aways and keep frizz at bay. Lastly, tuck the hair on one side (the side where the part is located) behind the ear and mist some TRESemme Frizz Shield Finishing Spray all over the head. Voila! It's Pandora-worthy perfection.

Next, let's talk about Miss Rose Byrne. I gotta say I really wanted to direct Rose Byrne to the nearest bread factory since she looked downright emaciated at the awards show (Zoe looked uncannily thin, too, but she's always been rail thin so I was less concerned with her itty bitty figure than I was with Rose's rapidly disappearing body). But while I thought she was too skinny to really fill out her dress, I did appreciate the gentle allure of her hairstyle. I love how the hair at the top of the head is straight and how it then starts undulating and forming soft waves right around eye level. It's such a romantic look! 

As previously reported, it was John Frieda's International Creative Consultant, Harry Josh, who worked on Rose's hair for the evening. To achieve this look, Josh began by applying John Frieda's Luxurious Volume Bountiful Body Mousse to Rose's wet, sectioned hair. He then blowdryed the hair using a round brush. Next, he curled her hair with a small curling iron, making sure to point the styling tool down. After curling each section of hair, he brushed the hair softly, creating the desired wavy look. He finished off the look by spraying John Frieda's Luxurious Volume All Out Hold Hairspray on Rose's head to give her style the lift and hold to make it through the evening. 

So there you have it! Keep an eye out for this look —me thinks it'll be one of the dominant hair trends of the upcoming season!

Golden Globe Awards 2010 — Red Carpet Hits

The Golden Globe Awards were full of surprises -- some great, some not. On the fashion front, there were serious offenses, such as Golden Globe winner Julianna Marguiles' hideous dress, which included a wine-colored bodice featuring an asymmetrical cut-out for a Judy-Jetson-does-Dancing-With-The-Stars effect. Yuck. And the ladies of Mad Men went seriously, well, mad, donning an array of fugly, ruffled, teal and peach gowns that looked like something out of a bad quinceañera party. But it wasn't all eye sores and missteps. There were also some gorgeous gowns — from Halle Berry's form-fitting black dress, which accentuated every curve of her statuesque body, to Marion Cotillard's stunning emerald green gown, which featured an up-to-there slit. As usual, bold style maven Chloe Sevigny (who won for her role as Nicolette Grant in HBO's Big Love) upped the drama with a taupe-colored strapless gown featuring tiers of ruffles along the sides of the body and the bust line. It was the type of dress most women could never pull off — but that daring approach to dress is exactly what has made Sevigny a fashion darling. As far as accessories, I was drooling over Courteney Cox's teardrop-shaped earrings, which added the right amount of edge to her simple black gown.

On the beauty front, Marion Cotillard was again among my favorites, with her fresh, dewy complexion and the touch of green shadow on her eyes. Christina Aguilera was also a pleasant surprise, sporting an adorable, face-framing bob that looked demure and sophisticated.

Here's a look at some of the night's highlights:

Photo via Celebrity-Gossip.net

Unlike in previous years, where she's opted for gowns with intricately beaded bodices and full skirts (like her many Elie Saab numbers), this year Halle Berry kept it simple — and scored a homerun while doing so. As soon as she hit the red carpet, jaws dropped. I love the dainty cap sleeves, the slightly mermaid-like skirt, and the plunging neckline, which is incredibly sexy without being trashy (like Mariah Carey's dress, which left zero to the imagination). It's simple, chic, and shows off Halle's figure — which, as you can see, is at its peak.

Photo courtesy of JustJared.com

Motherhood seems to agree with Christina Aguilera. The days of midriff-baring tops, nose rings, purple-streaked hair, and chaps are a thing of the past, as Xtina has transformed into an elegant, poised performer and yet she's still managed to maintain a bit of her edge. This peach-colored Versace gown strikes the perfect balance between pretty and futuristic with a metallic-trimmed bodice featuring peach leather inserts and a flirtatious chiffon skirt. And can we talk about how perfect that bob is for Christina? Loving it!

Image courtesy of JustJared.com

Nine star Marion Cotillard sparkled like a gem in this asymmetrical, emerald green dress by Christian Dior. From the luminosity of the stin fabric to the architectural, sculptural nature of the black piping along the bodice, the Grecian-inspired asymmetrical neckline, and the sky-rocketing slit, this is my idea of a show-stopping gown. I was also taken away by her makeup — from the dewiness of her complexion to the sultry cat eyes, which feature just a hint of emerald green. This was easily my favorite head-to-toe look of the evening.

Image courtesy of JustJared.com

As an avid Big Love viewer (don't ask me why I'm obsessed with a show about polygamy set in Utah because I just won't be able to answer that! lol), I was happy when Chloe Sevigny won an award for her role as the scheming Nicolette Grant. And, as a fellow New Yorker, I chuckled a bit when she barked at the guy who ripped her dress after she made her way on stage to accept her award (yes, we really do have that much attitude). But most of all, I loved how Sevigny waltzed down the red carpet in one of the evening's most audacious gown — a taupe-ish lilac Valentino gown with cascading ruffles outlining the sides of her body. Sure, it's a rather voluminous gown (and I'm sure it will be a controversial one among fashion mavens), but I thought she made it look like a dream, like she was floating on air.

Image courtesy of JustJared.com

I wasn't particularly amazed by Courteney Cox's dress — it was a simple, strapless black gown with a jeweled waistline — but I did do a double-take (and a triple take) when I saw her teardrop-shaped Ofira Schwartz black sapphire earrings. There were quite a few teardrop-shaped earrings throughout the evening, but these were the ones that made my heart skip a bit faster.

Kate Hudson Rocks Alexandre Birman At The "Nine" Premiere

I've always been fond of Kate Hudon's red carpet style. I remember gasping over the sparkling Atelier Versace dress she wore to the 2002 Golden Globe Awards: a long-sleeved gown with a plunging neckline that rivaled the one on the sheer green Versace dress J.Lo wore to the 2000 Grammy Awards. The next year, she impressed me again with the haute hippie strapless Valentino dress she wore to the Golden Globes. Granted, she's had her fair share of fashion misses, but that's because she loves fashion enough to take risks — and, well, that's the price of any gamble. Needless to say, I was curious to see what she'd be wearing to the NYC and LA premieres of Nine, the film adaptation of the Tony-winning musical of the same name, which stars Hudson alongside Daniel-Day Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Marion Cotillard, and Nicole Kidman.
And, at the NYC premiere, Goldie's little girl did not disappoint — showing off her stems in a long-sleeved, shimmering, beaded Chanel minidress, which she paired with a black-and-white diamond Chopard ring, Steven Russe earrings, and the black Alexandre Birman peeptoe pumps pictured above.

The exotic reptile heels feature a peep toe and a small platform with white snakeskin piping for a chic but understated look that manages to complement Hudson's ensemble without overdoing it — after all, when you're wearing such an intricate dress and one with such a dramatic twist (such as the long train), your shoes need to remain fairly simple or else you risk forcing a look that's entirely too busy and distracting. These classic Alexandre Birman shoes are extremely versatile — not to mention the perfect black heels for any LBD.

Lucky Kate got her hands on these early, as they're a part of Birman's pre-fall 2010 collection. Don't shoot the messenger, ladies — it's just one of those perks that comes with celebrity status. But not to worry — I'll keep you in the loop about these beauties, so you know when you, too, can get your hands on them and dress to the "nines."

Pop In These DVDs And Enjoy The Holidays!

Merry Christmas, my lovely STA readers! I know many of you are laying low today, enjoying some time with your loved ones (and maybe even rejoicing over whatever trinkets were in your stocking). If you feel like getting a DVD to watch, consider these great options — and happy holidays!

Public Enemies (Two-Disc Special Edition DVD), $21.49. Buy at Amazon.com

One of the year's greatest films (yes, I place it above Star Trek, Transformers 2, and all the other blockbuster sci-fi/action flicks), Public Enemies is an action-packed, thrilling ride and a semi-biopic (though it's not billed as such, many of the scenes were based on real-life footage). Johnny Depp delivers yet another brilliant performance as John Dillinger, the notorious bank robber who wrought havoc on the Chicago area in the years following the Great Depression. Directed by Michael Mann, the film includes some of Dillinger's most famous jobs (and even the jail breakouts he masterminded), but it goes beyond gun-slinging to capture the feel of that era.

Dillinger targeted the financial and governmental institutions that had brought on the most dire of financial conditions, with people across America losing their homes, their land, their jobs, and all their belongings as a result of the bank system's collapse. At a time when there was so much anger towards these institutions, then, Dillinger was seen as a hero of sorts — sure, he wasn't leading an uprising, but he was raising a giant middle finger to the system that had failed America's middle, working, and lower classes. During his bank-robbing sprees, he was aid to have told the customers inside the banks to put their money away, as he sought only the banks' money. The average person, then, didn't see him as any sort of villain — if anything, they cheered him on. Plus, Dillinger possessed a charisma and a charm that made him positively endearing. 

Michael Mann does a superb job, studying archival footage of John Dillinger (during press conferences after his capture and such), studying news articles from the era, and even shooting on location at the jail where Dillinger was held (even inside the cell where Dillinger had been locked up). Each of the film's players, particularly Christian Bale (who stars as the FBI agent who leads the Dillinger task force) and Marion Cotillard (who plays Dillinger's girlfriend Billie Frechette) seemed equally invested in accurately capturing the personality traits, the mannerisms, and the overall feel of their characters. And the showdown between the FBI agents and Dillinger's crew? Well, that alone is reason to watch.

Extract DVD, $17.99. Available at Amazon.com

Many critics have labeled this workplace comedy a return to the type of wry, clever humor that made director Mike Judge's Office Space a cult classic,  focusing on the banality of the workplace and the redundancy of our home/life routines — themes that prove relatable to almost any viewer. Jason Bateman plays Joel, a relatively affluent man who owns an extract company that fares well and is being courted by General Mills. It's a boring and uninspiring job, but hey, it pays the bills. His marriage is even more unremarkable since his wife seems to never be in the mood for any type of lovemaking Disgruntled and confused, he confides in his druggie, slacker, bartender best friend (played by Ben Affleck with surprising charm), who doles out some positively ludicrous advice.Things get even more complicated when a freak workplace accident threatens the company's financial buoyancy, and a sexy new temp (played by Mila Kunis) shows up at the extract plant and tempts Joel into considering an affair.

While it doesn't contain as many quotable moments as Office Space, Extract does hit some high notes, mainly thanks to Jason Bateman, who deftly captures the malaise of the average working stiff. 

Weeds Season Four DVD, $29.99. Available at Amazon.com

At the end of Season 3, our favorite pot-dealing suburban mom was forced to leave her old nabe, after the goons she hired for "protection" from a biker gang set fire to not only the bikers' pad, but the entire neighborhood. At the start of Season 4, then, Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker) is uprooting her family (older son Silas, younger son Shane, and brother-in-law Andy) and finally decides to head for her father-in-law's home, which is situated right by the border between California and Mexico). Once there, Nancy starts to work on a plan, teaming up with Guillermo (the same man who was responsible for torching her old nabe) and asking for a piece of the action. She soon becomes their designated smuggler (but she's bringing in more than pot, folks!) — and, after she earns Guillermo's trust, he sets her up to operate a maternity store (which is, of course, a complete front).

As Nancy starts to learn more about Guillermo and who his associates are, she realizes she's now part of an elaborate criminal network that literally stretches all the way to the top tiers of government in Mexico. Impetuous and impulsive, she starts asking too many questions, makes some very questionable decisions, and manages to incur the wrath of both her criminal association and the authorities.

Though entertaining, Season 4's plot lines prove rather outlandish and far-fetched, and we end up longing for the good old days when Nancy was setting up grow houses with Connor. Also, Nancy's personality and demeanor change this season, as the writers try to transform her into more of a badass, fearless female — and instead, wind up making her a caricature of her earlier self and one whose intentions and motivations we have a much harder time understanding.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 10 -- For the Fly Girl With A Bit of Edge

Two days 'til Christmas! Feeling the pressure? Well, chill back, clear your head and remember that there's always something you can buy for that tricky person on your list — it's just a matter of careful research. Throughout the holiday season, Sicka's been featuring gift round-ups themed after iconic female characters — from Joan Holloway to Penny Lane, Aeon Flux, Lily Van Der Woodsen, Elle Woods, Cher Horowitz, Satine, Liz Lemon, and Elvira Hancock.

For today's gift guide installment, I wanted to find the ultimate stylish urban girl: a sneakerhead with hip-hop swagger; a cool chick who is always up on the latest gear (like New New in ATL) and who combines streetwear with couture; a gal with an Aaliyah-esque edginess (may she rest in piece) and a Rihanna-like flair. Unfortunately, Hollywood has portrayed urban America really narrowly, and so I couldn't find a character that had all the right style attributes (not Nina from Love Jones, Sydney from Brown Sugar, Justice from Poetic Justice, Nikki from I Think I Love My Wife, Charlene from Get Rich Or Die Tryin', Lyric from Jason's Lyric, Sara Melas from Hitch, or any other character I could reference).

So, for today, we're bidding adieu to the film themes and just focusing on some cool gift ideas for that urban girl who loves both Jay-Z and Pink, knows every scene in Beat Street and Pulp Fiction, rocks sneakers and stilettos, and shops at Karmaloop and Barney's — in other words, the fliest chick in the game.

New Balance for Nine West Corbitt Sneakers, $89. Visit NineWest.com

New Balance really stepped outside of the box with this punk-y design for its fashion-forward collection for Nine West. The gunmetal-colored studs that make up the "N" logo and which are scattered throughout the sneaker pop out like night stars atop the cerulean blue nylon uppers. I also love the fact that they're hi-tops, which NB rarely tackles.

TOOFLY x GoodWood Trinity Collection Two-Finger Rings, $25 each. Visit TooFlyNYC.com

In the testosterone-laden street art scene, women have to work twice as hard to get the respect of their peers. New York graffiti artist TOOFLY has more than proved her legitimacy as an artist — she's rocked walls, exhibited her work at fine galleries, and collaborated with countless corporations and fashion labels. These carnival bright, joyful two-finger rings are part of a collaboration with GoodWood, an NYC-based label specializing in custom wooden jewelry.

 

Melody Ehsani The See Me Swarovski Earrings, $250. Visit Karmaloop.com

These parrot-shaped earrings say lots of things, but  you won't find "Polly wants a cracker" among them. Like most of Ehsani's pieces, these earrings are made of laser-cut plastic, but they feature strands of Swarovski crystals carefully placed to add the vibrant colors you'd find in this birds' plumage.

FLUD Gold Tableturns Watch, $80. Visit FLUDwatches.com

Forget walking to the beat of her own drum — this lady struts to the scratches of her own turntable. Give the sassy music lover a watch that will tickle her inner DJ.

Maharishi Organic Cotton Hooded Top, $67.50. Visit TheOutnet.com

What would a city girl do without some hooded tees and sweaters? This Maharishi number features a multi-color trim along the edges and is made of organic cotton, so it's perfect for the eco-loving urbanite.

Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Set, $37. Visit Sephora.com

This set includes some of my all-time favorite Carol's Daughter products: the Tui Hair Smoothie, a delicious hair mask that smells like banana, passion fruit and guava and nourishes your tresses with shea and cocoa butter; the Tui Herbal Shampoo, a moisturizing and clarifying wash; and the Hair Milk, a lightweight leave-in conditioner that helps to liven and define naturally wavy/curly hair.

Be & D Studded Convertible Shoulder Tote, $1490. Visit Nordstrom.com

This studded Be & D shoulder bag takes me back to the days when the world was singing along to Michael Jackson's "Beat It" and "Bad." It's got that aggressively playful vibe that epitomizes some of the most memorable pop and hip-hop cuts.

NYX Cosmetics Special Effects Lashes in Midnight Walts, $10. Visit NYXcosmetics.com

In the concrete jungle, we've all got to play up our wild side in order to survive. Make your eyes roar with these dramatic faux lashes from NYX Cosmetics.

Fallon Jewelry Berlin Necklace, $198. Visit Shopbop.com

This is one tangled web any girl would want to weave — or, at the very least, wear. The chunky Berlin  necklace features silver-plated and brass chains, along with multiple strands of Swarovski crystals ,wrapped around a heavy silver link chain and intertwined with oxidized metal, disc-shaped charms.

The Piecebook Reloaded by David Villorente and Sacha Jenkins. Visit Amazon.com

Much respect to graffiti legend Chino, whose passion for the artform has never wavered and who continues to make the masses appreciate its legitimacy and its visual power. Piecebook Reloaded, a collaboration with Ego Trip founder Sacha Jenkins, includes sketches from various writers' blackbooks (including Revolt, Reas, Ces, Cope 2 and many others) and spans the years 1982-2005. It's the graff equivalent of digging in the crates.

Easy Hey Kid Onion 5-inch Toy, $39.95. Visit KidRobot.com

Instead of investing in sculptures or canvas paintings, many of us city kids would rather collect interesting vinyl figures like the Kid Onion toy pictured above. Check out his red Chuck Taylors!

New Balance For Nine West Chizzle Sneakers, $89. Visit NineWest.com

Not ready to commit to a leopard print dress or a giraffe print jacket? With these cheetah print New Balance for Nine West kicks, you can tiptoe into the wild kingdom — one step at a time.

Cubannie Links Guerra Chain, $52. Visit Karmaloop.com

Love is a battlefield, so give your beloved friend all the right weaponry with this new Cubannie Links chain, which features a bullet case pendant.

StrangeCo IWG Titus Plush Toy, $29.99. Visit Amazon.com

At first glance, this may seem like a run-of-the-mill teddy bear. But look closer — notice how this little guy's eyes are of two different sizes and how one little fang protrudes from edges of his silly grin. This little guy is a warrior, but dang, is he cuddly!

Sam Edelman Zoe Boot, $350. Visit UrbanOutfitters.com

Every time I look at these boots, I think of the outfits Madonna wore in her Blonde Ambition tour — the coned bustiers, the garter belts, and knee-high stocking. And yet another image also pops into my head: one of an equestrian performing a trick while atop his/her horse's saddle. The square too, hefty platform, quilted harness-like detail, and the two buckle straps all help to create this equestrian-meets-burlesque effect.

CC Skye Wicked Ring, $150. Visit Shopbop.com

I remember the first time I heard someone say "wicked" in approval. It was a complete clash of cultures moment, as I tried to decipher whether it was a denouncement or a celebration. I quickly realized her "wicked" was the equivalent of my "dope," "fresh," and "fly." Within that paradigm, then, this CC Skye ring's name is quite fitting.

TY KU Premium Liqueur 2009 Holiday Set, $32.99. Visit TryTyKu.com for availability.

I love when a present's packaging is a gift in and of itself. This holiday kit includes a 750 ml bottle of TY KU, a Soju vodka loaded with antioxidants for a health-boosting take on liqueur, and a chrome and custom glass shaker — both packaged in a box adorned with artwork from Tokyo's bubbling pop art scene. The box is so cool you'll want to keep it on display.

Dillanthology, Vol. 3, $14.98. Visit Amazon.com

For the third consecutive year since we lost the ultra talented producer J Dilla (may he rest in peace), Rapster is releasing its third album in the Dillanthology tribute series. This particular album focuses mainly on J Dilla's solo work, compiling together cuts like "Nothing Like This, "Won't Do," and "It's Like That."

Reebok Top Down x Hellz Bellz Sneakers, $100. Visit Karmaloop.com

You don't need a convertible to rock with the top down. These hi-top Reebok kicks, a collaboration with the super fly streetwear brand Hellz Bellz, feature fold-down tops (the inside is lined with this cool graphic print that looks like a pixelated image), black leather uppers with tiny perforations, and a strip featuring two rows of square, pyramid studs.

LAMB Signature Collapsible Tote, $295. Visit Nordstrom.com

The paint splatter design of this tote conjures up images of subway art and elaborate wall murals, while the grid along the back makes you think of wire fences for yet another urban visual reference.

Kowboys Black Foil Wedge Shirt, $98. Visit Kowboys.net

The silver foil-like print on this distressed, black short-sleeved top is the perfect piece to wear with skinny black jeans or a pencil skirt for a sleek but edgy look.

Urban Decay Book of Shadows Vol. II, $48. Visit UrbanDecay.com

It may be called the Book of Shadows, but this Urban Decay set will make you want to scream, "Let there be light!" The set includes UD's Eyeshadow Primer Potion, two 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils (in Zero and Bourbon), and 16 eye shadow shades.

DJ Hello Kitty Hey T-Shirt, $24. Visit 80sTees.com

It seems like Hello Kitty got into the spirit of Zhane's "Hey DJ." Remember how it kicks off? It goes: "Everybody, move your body — now do it/Here is something, that's gonna make you move and groove/Hey DJ, keep playing my song all night/On and on an on." Yup, HK is apparently ready to keep you movin' and groovin'.

PUMA Mihara Sneakers, $179. Visit Zappos.com

Instead of an all-over zebra print, PUMA went for a slightly subtler look here, utilizing the print only along the heel and the velcro strap along the ankle. The perforated whiter leather uppers, meanwhile, add yet another texture element for an even more intriguing effect.

Tokidoki for Hello Kitty Rolling Suitcase, $250. Visit Shop.Sanrio.com

Hello Kitty's face replaces that of some of your favorite Tokidoki characters (from Mozzarella to Sandy, Bastardino, Sabochan, and more) in this quirky Sanrio suitcase, which brings a whole new meaning to the expression "rollin' with the homies."

Lipstick Queen Five Minutes of Fame Mini Set, $28. Visit LipstickQueen.com

If there's one thing Lil' Mama did right (and frankly, it may be the ONLY thing she did right), it was let the world know how much girls in the hip-hop generation love their lipgloss. The Five Minutes of Fame set features five shades: 3, a coral pink; 5, an orange-y nude; 11, a magenta-tinged purple; 12, a pink with lilac undertones; and 13, a light poppy red.

DKNY Be Delicious Limited Edition Interchangeable Rollerball Set, $30. Available exclusively at ULTA stores.

This set is pure genius. If you love the fruity apple scent o DKNY's Be Delicious and Red Delicious scents, you're going to adore this gift set, which includes four miniature rollerballs: the Be Delicious EDP Rollerball, the Be Delicious Juicy Apple Accord Rollerball, the Be Delicious Sweet Floral Accord Rollerball, and the Be Delicious Sex-A-Peel Accord Rollerball — all of which can be mixed and matched so you can add a nice twist to your Be Delicious fragrance.

Love Rocks NY Crack Black Diamond Hoops, $4000. Visit LoveRocksNY.com

What Jenny from the Block type doesn't have a trusty pair of hoop earrings? But finding some hoops that stand out from the crowd? That's a different story. With its zig-zagging, jagged edges and rows of black diamonds, these earrings will highlight her star status.

Harajuku Lovers Snow Bunnies Bag Collection: Brush Case, $20; Clutch, $28; and Travel Bag, $48. Visit Sephora.com

For the winter season, the Harajuku Girls (Love, Angel, Baby and Music) stored away their jumpers, baby doll dresses and mini skirts and reached for their yummy coats, sweater vests, scarves and mittens. These makeup cases come in five different sizes (four of which are pictured above), each with a different Harajuku Girl against a white backdrop adorned with giant snowflakes.

 
Nooka x Hellz Bellz "Hellz Zoo" Watch, $285. Visit Nooka.com

Nooka's digital watches are already stellar, but this one has an out-of-this-world feel with the dark blue, violet, magenta, fuchsia, white,  and light blue nebulae print on the face.

DC Shoes Life Collection Women's Admiral Sneakers, $100. Visit Store.DCShoes.com

Hi-top kicks seem to be getting narrower and more polished this season — but DC Shoes was way ahead of its competition on that one, having designed the Admiral silhouette ages ago. The new black and purple colorway, meanwhile, works beautifully for the chilly months ahead.

Cubannie Links The Freedom Tri-Rings In Gold And Green, $70. Visit Karmaloop.com

These CL earrings feature braided strips of leather twisted into triangular shapes. The army green, light green and gold leather strips are perfect for the gal who loves camo print and military motifs.

The Wire Tees, $28 each. Available at the HBO Store and at Karmaloop.com

Are you still mourning the end of HBO's The Wire? Well, you can still celebrate the series and its key characters with these new tees, which are available at the HBO store.

SOBRAL Flash Gordon Harvey Bangle Bracelets, $85 each. Visit SOBRALUSA.com

Ever since I discovered this jewelry line, I've been obsessed! The pieces are affordable, stylish, and oh so unique. The Flash Gordon lucite bracelets feature a wooden brown color and a gold linear pattern that's just the slightest bit flashy and all the way fly.

It's Just Begun: The Epic Journey of DJ Disco Wiz, Hip Hop's First Latino DJ by Ivan Sanchez and Luis "DJ Disco Wiz" Cedeno, $15.61. Visit Amazon.com

Latinos have played a pivotal part in hip-hop's history — we were there from the very beginning. I mean, think about it: a movement that was birthed in the South Bronx that doesn't include Puerto Ricans? The very thought is absurd! Here, DJ Disco Wiz, one of the very first Latino DJs to receive massive recognition, tells his story.

NotNeutral Triton Lacquer Tray Set, $220. Visit NotNeutral.com

Notice how you can make out an image of a face in these three trays, which feature orange lacquer against a brown backdrop? Well, that's the face of Triton, the son of Poseidon and Amphitrite, the god and goddesses of the sea. You can use these trays to store anything from jewelry to keys, glasses, and any other valuables.

JK Jemma Kidd I-Conic Eyes Mini Liners, $32. Visit Target.com

How can you any fly girl pull of a Sasha Fierce look without some eyeliner? With this four-piece miniature eyeliner set, a dramatic eye look is always within reach.

DC Shoes Women's Henry Jacket, $82. Visit Store.DCShoes.com

You don't have to spend hundreds and thousands of dollars to stay warm this season. This bubble jacket is extra soft and comfortable, and it'll keep you nice and toasty.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 9 -- For The Seductive, Retro-Loving Joan Holloway Type

Roger Sterling isn't the only one whose heart skips a beat at the sight of Joan Holloway (or Joan Harris, if we refer to the newlywed by her married name), the voluptuous redhead who efficiently ran the Sterling Cooper ad agency (well, until midway through Mad Men's third season, when she got hitched to a handsome doctor). Fortunately, those of you who tuned in for the Season 3 finale know Joan will once again keeping the advertising boys in check at their new upstart company — which should make for a really entertaining fourth season.

After all, Joan is more than eye candy for the boys and style inspiration for the girls:  she's discreet and capable of keeping mum about the most sordid personal affairs pertaining to her superiors; she rules the secretary pool with equal parts charm and venom; she's smart, focused, and determined (whether she's reading TV scripts to help Harry's newly formed broadcasting department or she's playing the role of devoted wife); and she's magnetizing — even when she's having a decidedly bitchy moment. Best of all, maybe now that she's working with Roger again on a day-to-day basis, the two will finally dump their loser spouses and get together (hey, a gal can dream, right?). If nothing else, we'll get to see Christina Hendricks strutting her stuff in her hip-hugging dressed and pencil skirts, snug sweaters, intricate updos, red fingernails, and signature pen necklace.

Here, a gift guide inspired by Joan Holloway — and those who, like me, can't get enough of her style.

Jill Of All Trades Dress in CEO, $49.99. Visit ModCloth.com

Remember the "Babylon" episode, where the Sterling Cooper boys had Joan gather all the secretaries in a room and have them test Belle Jolie lipsticks, as they watched their reactions through a one-way glass? In the episode, Joan wore a red dress much like this one, with a discreet but curve-hugging shape and a pretty scoop neckline.

1960s Inspired Gold Tone Pen Necklace, $20. Visit Amazon.com

The gold tone pen necklace Joan wears around her neck signifies her status as the resident Queen Bee — it's the office manager's equivalent of a royal specter.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Pumps, $182.70. Visit Couture.Zappos.com

While she loves to play up her feminine assets, Joan isn't one for flashy displays at the work place. In fact, she chewed Jane's head off for flaunting her decolletage at the work place. Her shoes, then, are simple and classic, with a pointed toe and a sensible pump.

Vintage Hand Chased Lipstick Holder With Blue Accent Stone In 800 Silver, $75. Visit AffordableVintageJewelry.com

Joan Holloway types take pride in having their makeup look flawless — and routinely reapplying lipstick is key. This retro lipstick holder allows her to keep her lip color safe and comes with a handy mirror for quick touch-ups.

Curations With Stefani Greenfield "Duchess" Simulated Pearl 29" Necklace, $64.90. Visit HSN.com

Like most stylish women in the '60s, Joan appreciates pearls — and the tassel at the tip of this four-strand necklace would be yet another selling point.

Peachbloom Velour Vintage 1960s Taupe Hat, $37.99. Visit MySweetiePiePie.Etsy.com

This pillbox hat looks like it belongs in Jackie Kennedy's personal collection — and, as we all know (even if it's from watching Mad Men), every girl wanted to be either a Jackie, a Marilyn, or both.

Kenneth Jay Lane White Crystal Wreath Clip-On Earrings, $68.85. Visit Bluefly.com

Domed round clip-on earrings abound in Joan's jewelry box. They're classic and simple, and they frame her gorgeous features, drawing attention to them as opposed to drawing the eye away from the face.

Mad Men Season Two DVD Set, $17.99. Visit Amazon.com

What could make a better gift for a die-hard Man Man fan than the Season 2 box set? She can rally on Joan's behalf as the rivalry with Jane begins, cry with her when the news of Marilyn Monroe's death hits the office, celebrate her engagement to a handsome doctor, secretly root for her to end up with Roger Sterling, and much more.

 

Estee Lauder Golden Lattice Powder Compact, $49. Visit EsteeLauder.com

Any woman with a reasonable concern for her appearance will make sure to carry along a compact — and, if she's like Joan Holloway, she'll make sure all the other ladies ogle at her beautiful compact as she powders her nose in the restroom.

Dior Babe Leather Frame Bag, $3730. Visit SaksFifthAvenue.com

The square shape of this leather Dior purse and its frame-like hinge top channels the subtle glamour of the early '60s.

Vintage Chanel 3 CC Necklace, $795. Available at ShopWGACA.com

There's a reason why What Goes Around Comes Around has earned such a vast fan base — the vintage boutique offers authentic designer pieces (jewelry, apparel, handbag, footwear, and more). Just in time for the holidays, WGACA is offering vintage lovers a chance to snag some authentic Chanel necklaces, like the 3 CC piece pictured above.

Chloé Intense Eau de Parfum, $98. Visit SaksFifthAvenue.com

What woman doesn't like getting a dozen roses? The Chloé Intense eau de parfum features the rose notes from the original Chloé fragrance, as well as pink pepper, sandalwood, and Tonka bean notes. The pink pepper notes add a spicy, exotic quality perfect for va-va-va-voom gals like Joan.

Essie Lollipop, $8. Visit EssieShop.com

Though she'll occasionally opt for sheer nude colors or pale pinks, Joan's nails are most often coated with red lacquer. Essie's new winter shade, Lollipop, has a lovely retro charm pus it has a jolly seasonal quality (it's like the bright red nose of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in all the vintage caricatures and cartoon films).

Christian Dior Short Sleeve Sweater, $170. Visit Yoox.com

Though her bra cups are a-brimmin', Joan isn't one to wear low-cut tops or flaunt her cleavage. Instead, she opts for short-sleeved, scoop neck sweater tops that fit her like the proverbial glove.

Alberta Ferretti Wool Bouclé Pencil Skirt, $416.50. Visit Net-A-Porter.com

One of Joan's favorite workplace-ready looks consist of a sleek pencil skirt and a short-sleeved sweater top or long-sleeved tie-neck blouse. To get that secretarial look during the colder winter months, a wool skirt like this Alberta Ferretti piece will more than do the trick.

Judith Jack Amarillo Marcasite 14K Gold Vermeil Brooch, $135. Visit Zappos.com

Intricate brooches are key when trying to pull off a pre-Mod '60s look. By adding an elegant brooch to a sweater dress, a simple blouse, or even a scarf, Joan can add a bit of glam to even the most understated ensemble.

Emilio Pucci Tribeca Silk Twill Scarf, $295. Visit Bloomingdales.com

Though she prefers to leave her red tresses uncovered, Joan does occasionally wrap a scarf around her head (especially when she's spending time at home with her new husband Greg). This Pucci scarf will look great whether it's draped around the shoulders or tied around the head.

 

D&G Grey Vernice Pumps, $420. Visit Stylebop.com

These grey pumps have just a tiny bit of pink trim along the sole and heel for a coquetish, ultra girly feel.

1960s Pearl & Rhinestone Clip-On Earrings, $75. Visit BeautyCrisis.com to order.

These authentic vintage 1960s earrings feature four pearl stones, set in sterling silver and arranged in a crescent moon shape, with a row of rectangular rhinestones adjacent to it.

Zero + Maria Cornejo Ruched Felted Gloves, $129. Visit LaGarconne.com

Sophisticated ladies won't bare their arms when walking outside — instead, they cover them up with elbow-length gloves like these Zero + Maria Cornejo ones.

Burt's Bees Pola-Dot Perfect Mani-Pedi Gift Set, $20. Visit BurtsBees.com

This adorable Burt's Bees mani-pedi set, packaged in a retro red case with white polka dots, includes a nail file, a tube of Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme, a Burt's Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme, a tin of Burt's Bees Lemon Oil Cuticle Cream, and a tube of Replenishing Lip Balm.

Vintage '60s Bonwit Teller Red Nylon Coat With Navy Blue Embroidery and Belt, $95. Visit RiceAndBeansVintage.com

This red coat feature a brick-like print created with navy blue embroidery, as well as eight front buttons and a navy belt — the perfect way to cinch that waist and show off those killer curves.

Gal Pal Say It With Love Retro Ice Pack, $16. Visit Unique-Vintage.com

Whether she's at home with her hubby or she's at the office with all the advertising execs, Joan is always having to play caretaker. In fact, Joan was the one who saved McKendrick from bleeding to death when Lois took a John Deere tractor for a spin around the office and ran over his foot. But that Season 3 accident was particularly garish — most times, what Joan has to cure are hangovers, headaches, and bruised egos. And, in two out of three of those cases, these ice packs would come in handy.

Vintage 1960s Ashtray, $40. Visit VintageLooks.com

You may not condone smoking, but back in the '60s, there were practically more cigarettes than light bulbs being lit. Sure, maybe the Joan Holloway-esque gal in your life knows better than to entertain this habit but, if she won't give up the habit, then she might as well have a nice ashtray to keep the rest of her house ash-free.

POP Beauty Pin Up Beauty Kit, $9.99. Visit Ulta.com

Though Pop's Pin Up Beauty Kit is mostly inspired by the '40s pin-up girls, the influence of these women carried over into the '50s and early '60s thanks to Marilyn Monroe's soaring popularity and to the consistent usage of similar visuals in advertising campaigns. From neutral colors to dark blue shades, this palette has a hue for every outfit in your Joan Holloway's closet.

Jean Paul Gaultier Maille Femme Short Sleeve Sweater, $149. Visit Yoox.com

It's all about the details with this Jean Paul Gaultier Femme sweater -- from the sleeves' French cuff, which makes them balloon just the slightest bit, to the way the collar sits right at the neck, providing ample coverage, and the way the fabric hugs the wearer's bosom.

Vintage February Coat, $149.99. Visit ModCloth.com

There's something about redheads wearing dark green colors — it just works. Joan Holloway is well aware of this heavenly match, which is why she often drapes herself in forest green and emerald green garments and jewels. This dark green coat would bring out her coloring and the fur collar would add the necessary posh quality.

Crosley 302 Classic Red Wall Phone, $65. Visit CSNStores.com

This rotary wall phone resembles the one Joan's been answering these days when Greg is away at the ER and Roger calls to hear her Marilyn Monroe-esque, purr-y voice.

Magnolia Bakery Aprons, Starting At $22. Visit MagnoliaBakery.com

Ever since her trip down the aisle, Joan's been trying to manage being a working woman with taking care of her household — and, of course, that involves spending time in the kitchen. If you have someone in your life who's got the cooking bug, she might appreciate one of these retro aprons from Magnolia Bakery in Manhattan.

Marcel Wanders For Target Candle Tapers, $14.99 For Set of 2, and Pillar Candles, $19.99 Each. Visit Target.com

Sure, at the conclusion of Season 3, Mad Men has yet to enter the Mod era (Twiggy's minis and white patent leather boots haven't made a splash just yet), but it's only a matter of time before Joan has to redecorate to get into a groovier mood. She can start with these sculptural candles by Marcel Wanders for Target.

Portolano Leather Gloves, $185. Visit BergdorfGoodman.com

These opera-length leather gloves will keep any ladies' arms cozy in the winter time while also giving her a polished look.

Rolfs Nostalgia Collection Cigarette Case. Visit Ebags.com

Joan is way too tidy to simply toss her cigarettes inside her handbag. No, she'd have them stored in a nice case, such as this embossed brown leather case.

1960s Gold Flower Pearl Clip-On Earrings, $95. Visit BeautyCrisis.com to order

These dome-shaped gold earrings feature a center made of pearls arranged in a daisy-like shape, creating fan even daintier, more ladylike look.

Shabby Apple Madison Avenue Dress, $76. Visit ShabbyApple.com

I fell in love with this dress the moment I laid eyes on it. From its tulip-shaped skirt to its trench coat-like buttons, slightly puffed sleeves, and its cheeky houndstooth print, Shabby Apple's Madison Avenue dress manages to capture a retro feel without looking the least bit dated. Need another reason to buy it? Get this: Shabby Apple donates 5% of its net profits to Unitus, an organization that provides micro-credit loans to women in developing countries.

Soap & Glory Plane Jane Gift Set, $22.94. Visit Target.com

Packaged in a cheeky, newspaper print-covered vinyl toiletry bag, the Soap & Glory Plane Jane set includes: a 5 oz. bottle of the Clean On Me Body Wash; a 1.69 fl. oz. jar of the Flakeaway Body Scrub; a 1.69 fl. oz. bottle of Righteous Butter Body Butter;  a 1.69 fl. oz. Hair Supply tube; a 4.2 fl. oz. tube of Great Shakes Hand Cream;  a 3.4 fl. oz. Girligo Body Spray bottle; and a pink bath pillow.

Lancome Dual Finish Versatile Powder Makeup, $35.50. Visit Sephora.com

When it comes to applying powder, Joan Holloway types would opt for patting their faces with thick powder puff over buffing them with brushes. Lancome's Dual Finish powder provides excellent coverage, proving that pressed powder is not just a thing of the past.

Mrs. O: The Face of Fashion Democracy by Mary Tomer, $17.50. Visit Amazon.com

Michelle Obama has already established a reputation as the most stylish First Lady since Jackie Kennedy. And just like Joan adored Jackie, current-day, Joan-like gals would adore Michelle and her modern but demure take on presidential fashion.

Sur La Tete Posey Pillbox Hat, $24.95. Visit VillageHatShop.com

This pillbox hat is a lovely shade of pink — it would go perfectly with the sweater Joan wore when she announced her engagement to all the girls at the office.

Sophie Hatbox Shaped Jewel Box, $93.95. Visit Bellacor.com

In the '50s and '60s, when women covered their manes while outside, it was essential to keep hats in their cases so they could stain clean and retain their shapes. And, of course, eventually the hat boxes themselves became a fashion statement. This jewelry box celebrates the shape of these vintage hat boxes.

Vintage Black Scalloped Lace Beaded Dress, $38. Visit NodtoModVintage.Etsy.com

The beaded lace sleeves on this vintage dress add a quaint touch to the basic silhouette.

 

Jade Green 60s Vinyl Vanity Suitcase, £45.00. Visit StardustOnline.com

Messenger bags and duffle bags had yet to become acceptable luggage styles in the '50s and '60s — and, while modern styles maximize convenience and comfort, they tend to lack the kind of easy style found in most vintage suitcases.

Cafe Bustelo's The Bustelo Supreme Basket, $64.99. Visit JavaCabana.com

Part of Joan's job as an office manager at Sterling Cooper involved making sure the executives always had coffee available to them (and, of course, having a few cups herself to stay alert). A modern-day Joan Holloway, then, would appreciate this Bustelo gift basket, which includes six Bustelo coffee cups and saucers, an imported coffee pot, and a one-pound bag of Bustelo Supreme beans.

Kahlua Coffee Cream, $17.99. Available at most liquor stores. Visit Kahlua.com

A gal like Joan appreciates both coffee and liquor, and Kahlua's new Coffee Cream fuses together both of these worlds. It's like a ready-to-serve White Russian — but sweeter (and minus the vodka). That means not having to worry about fetching the milk and mixing the Kahlua and dairy together.

Sicka Than Average x Pastry Giveaway -- Win A Pair Of Pastry By Vanessa And Angela Simmons "Sasha" Boots

A good friend described MTV's "Run's House" as the modern-day, reality TV equivalent of The Cosby Show. Now, that might be a bit of stretch (Rev Run us funny, but he's not exactly Heathcliff Huxtable), but I can see why she would make the comparison. After all, the show focuses on the daily life of former Run-DMC member Reverend Run and his family: wife Justine, daughters Vanessa and Angela, and sons Jojo, Diggy and Russy. Every day, the kids are up to some form of mischief, the girls are convincing daddy to support one of their newest plans, and Run has to maintain order in the household. Daughters Vanessa and Angela were crowd favorites from the very beginning (they're like the Denise and Rudy of the show) — and, as the series progressed, audiences got to see the girls take their Pastry clothing line from a vague idea to a thriving business. And what else can you expect from the nieces of Phat Farm founder (and Def Jam Records co-founder) Russell Simmons? And lest we forget, their dad is part of the reason why hip-hop lovers so fervently embraced Adidas sneakers. For them to be fashion designers, then, wasn't that much of a stretch — and getting such an early start, well, that's a family tradition too.

Personally, while I've always admired the girls' resolve, I've tended to find their designs a bit too juvenile for women in their mid-to-late 20s and beyond. Really, it's more of a juniors' line — and, as such, it's adorable an entirely age appropriate, offering such pieces as vinyl handbags and backpacks with camo, plaid, and color blocked prints in contrasting neon hues; bold sneakers in colors worthy of a Barbie set; and hooded sweatsuits and tees with cupcake and ice cream cone graphics.

Every so often though, the Simmons sisters will create a pair of shoes or sneakers that speak to a more wide-ranging audience, one that that also encompasses a slightly older crowd. And the Sasha boots (pictured above) definitely exemplify footwear with mass appeal — from their cone-shaped heels to the heart print along the knit shaft, these boots will keep your feet warm and will add a dose of cuteness to any outfit.

In the giving spirit of the holidays, we're having a giveaway with Pastry and offering readers a chance to win a pair of these lovely Sasha boots, regularly priced at $99. To enter, simply visit LovePastry.com and leave a comment here describing the designs you most like. Then, send an e-mail to contest@lovepastry.com AND celia@sickathanaverage.com with "Sicka Than Average x Pastry Giveaway" in the subject line and, in the body of the e-mail, describe why you love any pair of Pastry shoes. You must complete both of these steps to enter the giveaway. The contest is open to U.S. residents only, and the deadline to enter is December 28th at midnight EST. Good luck! Hope you get some Pastry sweetness in your life!

Toys For Boys -- Holiday Gifts For The Men In Your Life!

Does shopping for your boss, boyfriend, husband, uncle, or dad make you want to scream in frustration? Trust: you're not the only one. Whether the man in question is a dapper executive, an avid sneakerhead, a moody artist type, or a flashy don dada, this holiday gift round-up includes something to suit his tastes. Men may be from Mars, but that doesn't mean we can't find a way to understand the martians in our lives! Ha!

Penfield Summit Color Block Coat in Army/Chocolate/Black, $299. Visit PenfieldUSA.com To Buy Or For Additional Retailer Information.

Colorblocked garments can be tricky to pull off (if you're a dude, that is), but the subtle contrast between the colors of this goose down jacket make the feat a cinch. Besides, it's the type of jacket that makes you feel warm just from looking at it.

John Hardy Black Sapphire Ring, $750. Visit NeimanMarcus.com

Even the most macho dudes want to rock some fine jewelry — and you've got to let them know there are way more options than medallion pendants and ridiculously thick rope chains. This John Hardy ring manages to be an attention grabber while still looking luxurious and tasteful.

Creative Recreation Cesario Lo in Black/Wool/Khaki, $85. Visit RevolveClothing.com

It's amazing what a sneaker upgrade can do to boost a man's swag. Hook him up with a more polished pair of kicks he can wear during days when he wants to look extra official.

 

Kenneth Cole Vintage Black Eau de Toilette Spray, $67.50. Visit KennethCole.com or Zappos.com

Billed as a scent for the confident modern man, Kenneth Cole's Vintage Black features notes of green lime, pink grapefruit, dewy greens, white pepper, icy tequila accord, lavender buds, oak and sandalwood.

Aveda Men Carry-On Companions Gift Set, $26. Visit Aveda.com

Is he the type to fuss over his hair constantly? Is he always looking out for mirrors or glass windows where he can assess his reflection and straighten up his hair? Then this Aveda gift set will definitely come in handy. The Carry-On Companions set features miniature bottles of shampoo and conditioner, as well as a tiny jar of grooming clay and a mini tube of gel.

D&G Buckled High Boot, $595. Visit BergdorfGoodman.com

Sick of those duck boots or those raggedy Timbs? Get him a pair of boots with function and style. These D&G buckled boots look streamlined and sleek, while still maintaining their rugged masculinity.

Comme Des Garçons Shirt Blue/Brown/Orange Hooded Coat, $329. Visit Farfetch.com

Does your man appreciate Pop Art? Cubism? Graffiti? Then give him a bold jacket that speaks to his daring approach to color and form.

Nike Dunk High Supre Black Sail, $135. Available at Wish in Atlanta (447 Moreland Avenue). Call 404.88.0402 or visit WishATL.com

Hardcore sneakerheads are always looking for that extra special pair of kicks that will make people stop and ask, "Where'd you get those?" These Nike Dunks are a true conversation starter.

Skullcandy The Lorider Mic'ed Headphones, $39.95. Visit Karmaloop.com

When it comes to headphones with superior sound quality and innovative design, Skullcandy takes the crown. Their Lorider style celebrates the handiwork of all those talented hydraulic-loving, candy paint-using car aficionados along the West Coast.

G-Shock Men's DW6900SW Watch in Purple, $170. Visit 80spurple.com

G-Shock deserves some serious kudos for managing to consistently reinvent its image and maintain its relevance. This purple watch, with its metallic strap and contrasting violet face and magenta display, illustrates why G-Shock is a great option for G's.

Versace Collection Modern Fit Dress Shirt, $295. Visit Nordstrom.com

Throwback jerseys went out the door as soon as Jay picked up the mic and declared that 30 is the new 20. Now, it's all about the grown and sexy look — and you better believe that includes some crisp dress shirts. To look like a true made man, every guy needs a sexy black shirt, so help him add the perfect one to his rotation.

Ted Baker Woven Silk Tie, $79.50. Visit Nordstrom.com

The reason why there's such a stigma about giving ties at Christmas time is this: usually, men get stuck with some pretty hideous ties (like random red ties with Christmas tree prints). Were they receiving ties like this Ted Baker one, you can rest assured that there would be no complaints filed.

Jack Black Jet Set Traveler Set, $25. Visit Sephora.com

This perennially popular brand offers a nifty skincare trio that's ideal for the traveling man. Packaged in a lightweight tote, the set includes the Supreme Cream, Face Moisturizer, and Facial Cleanser.

Nike SB Dunk Mid Elite (Triumvir), $120. Visit Ubiqlife.com

The optical print of these Nike Dunk Mids alone will provide him with hours of amusement, and the black and white color palette will make these a mainstay in his wardrobe.

Tommy Hilfiger Good Riddance 2009 Leather Embossed Flask, $58. Available at Tommy Hilfiger Fifth Avenue Flagship Store (681 Fifth Avenue) in NYC. Call 212.223.1824.

This year has definitely had some ups, but boy have there been a lot of downs! From the Bernie Madoff fallout to the recession woes to Michael Jackson's passing to the Tiger Woods saga, it's been one thing after the other. Most likely, he'll appreciate the "good riddance" sentiment on this leather flask — and it will come in quite handy when it's time to pour the drinks on New Year's Eve!

Sean John Unforgivable Classic Gift Set With Travel Bag, $57. Visit HSN.com

Diddy's best-selling Unforgivable fragrance always makes for a great gift — especially when it's packaged in a box alongside a scented deodorant and tucked inside a roomy, black Sean John bag.

Tokens & Icons San Francisco Transit Token Cufflinks, $60. Visit Elsewares.com

Does he shout his city out every chance he gets? Then get him a pair of transit token cufflinks from Tokens & Icons. The round, gold-tone cufflinks are designed to resemble the old-school tokens previously used as subway/bus fare and they're available in a series of styles pertaining to various metropolises.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Engravable Gift Set, $249.95. Visit WineBasket.com. Engraving is available nationally at 877-JW-Blue-Label or at JohnnieWalker.com/Engraving

Not only are you blessing him with some Blue Label, but you're going the extra mile with an engravable case. When he looks at this initials on that case, there's no way he'll be able to resist a smile.

Block Headwear Carrington Caps, $42 each. Visit Lids.com or VillageHatShop.com

Let him channel rapper/actor Common with a plaid drivers' hat like Block Headwear's Carrington Cap.

LAB Series Smooth Shave Set, $65. Visit LabSeries.com

Does he have sensitive skin? Does he worry about razor bumps? Make sure he gets a fresh shave and that his skin stays nice and smooth with LAB Series' 4-piece Shave Set.

PF Flyers Quilted Center Hi Sneakers, $100. Visit Zappos.com

For holiday, PF Flyers added an urban twist to its Center Hi kicks, incorporating a quilted pattern that's simple but fun.

AKOO Descended Blazer, $201.99. Visit DrJays.com

Unlike so many "streetwear" brand, TI's new clothing line Akoo isn't all big logos and gawdy embroidered signatures. Instead, he blends the street with the suite, creating a collection that ranges from hoodies and denim to blazers with prep school-worthy patches.

Graf Von Faber-Castell Intuition Fountain Pen, $395; Intuition Ballpoint Pen, $225; and Intuition Rollerball Pen, $295. Visit FahrneysPens.com

Sure, he probably uses his laptop and iPhone more than he does any writing utensil, but he still has to physically sign those checks, so make sure he does so with an authoritative pen worthy of a true boss.

Passman Galleries Slice Grain Cuff Links Handmade From Black Coral And 18K Gold, $485. Available at Passman Galleries at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. Visit Passman.com

The right set of cufflinks can pull together an entire ensemble — in some ways, they're what earrings are to women. Make sure he brings it home with a gorgeous set of links, like the black coral and gold pair pictured above.

Paul Smith Black Glenplaid Carry-On Bag, $748. Visit Bluefly.com

If he's got more frequent flier miles than you can count, you may want to consider giving him a carry-on bag he can feel good about, well, carrying on. With its muted color scheme, sophisticated trimmings, and clean plaid print, this Paul Smith bag will have him showing off at the terminal.

Patrick Dempsey 2 Eau de Toilette Spray, $35. Visit Avon.com

McDreamy has done it again — for his second scent for Avon, the Grey's Anatomy star went for a slightly bolder, even more irresistible scent. Patrick Dempsey 2 features top notes of mandarin and nutmeg,  mid notes of spiced wood, green fig and citrus, and base notes of olibanum, patchouli, and musk.

 

Marine Layer The Original MLT, $35; Classy Polo, $60; and Introductory V, $29. Visit MarineLayer.com

Marine Layer's environmentally-friendly garments are made in California, using Pima Cotton and MicroModal, a bio-based fabric derived from beech wood, and ensuring that 95% of production materials are recycled and reused. But Marine Layer's appeal isn't limited to its environmentally sound practices — these tees are so soft, you'll want to steal them from your boyfriend's/husband's closet.

Grey Goose Gift Set, $29.99. Available at most liquor stores. Buy online at MarketViewLiquor.com

Who doesn't like to let loose with some Goose? Whether you're shopping for a relative, co-worker, or friend of the family, this is the type of gift you know will be put to use!

 

AKOO Maximo Cardigan Sweater, $59.99. Visit DrJays.com

Who knew TI had such a preppy side to him? The Grammy-winning rapper's debut collection includes this country club-worthy, orange-and-white striped cardigan sweater.

Old Spice Holiday Swagger Gift Set, $8.99. Visit Target.com

An oldie but goodie, Old Spice is still a reliable standby for most men (especially those over the age of 30-35). This affordable gift set is perfect for Secret Santa exchanges at the office.