Chic at 60ish!

I adore the holidays. Always have. Carols, cards and crackling fires. Decorations and dressing up. All some of my favorite things! I adore shopping for presents or thinking of a fabulous experience—searching for the perfect gift, pleasing those I love when I find it. Though life never seems busier, as the song goes, for me this is “the most wonderful time of the year.”

THE BEST GIFT OF ALL: Magical NYC holiday weekend with my daughter Lauren & granddaughter Margot, making memories to last a lifetime! The thumbs up came after a scrumptious hot fudge sundae in The Regency Hotel dining room–pretttty good!! 🙂

My favorite gift is an experience–a memory, creating a sparkly smile–and my second favorite is jewelry or something lasting, true sparkle. This season, jewelry–real or faux–is a must. Dangly diamond earrings. An armful of gold bracelets. I also love ropes and ropes of lustrous pearls or chunky beads. Another great way to dress your outfit up or down—just don’t forget this is the season of glam!

GIFTS WITH MEANING: My beautiful pearl choker is my favorite piece of jewelry; I received the first three strands when Lauren was born & the second three when my son Jonathan was born–sentimental & sensational at once, from Jeff Kellmer, Haverford

Think of me as your personal elf, here to help. Running through store after store, I spy lots of gifts I’d like to give or get. My eye immediately goes to great-looking watches—for either a man or woman—undoubtedly the perfect present. Yes, you can tell time on your phone, but who wouldn’t want a stunning watch? Top-of-the line to tons of very reasonable copies, this is a gift that’s sure to please. Dress watches, everyday watches; a gorgeous addition to any wardrobe.

WATCH OUT: Bulgari gold & diamond snake watch at bulgari.com

If you read my blog often, you know I like a little sparkle on the neck, ear and wrist. Necklaces are layered. Bracelets should be multiple. A drop earring or hoop flatters all. More is better! Gold, silver, diamonds, or colored stones, real or faux, there is no such thing as too many pairs of earrings. No woman should leave home without them.

LOVE A DROP EARRING & A CHUNKY NECKLACE: Yvel golden pearl & diamond earrings & gold link necklace, both from Jeff Kellmer, Haverford

If I could choose one special gift to receive, it would be a long strand of diamonds. I have a dear friend who has the most exquisite diamond necklace I’ve ever seen—one diamond after the other, practically to her waist. So gorgeous, so simple—she wears it with a black dress or a black sweater. This is the true meaning of “White Christmas!”

MY DREAM GIFT: A long strand of diamonds & matching hoop earrings & ring, at Tacori.com

If real diamonds are beyond your budget, this look can also be bought “faux,” just remember long necklaces of every variety are a must-have. Yellow gold, rose gold, and silver chains, or strands and strands of beads. Try turquoise and coral. Worn alone or with a pendant. Wear them in layers, wrap them around your neck, pair them with pearls. Fashionable and fun—also an easy way to go from day to evening in an instant.

MAKE A STATEMENT: Margot McKinney pearl & gemstone necklace & earrings at bergdorfgoodman.com & neimanmarcus.com

Cocktail rings are huge. Big stones to be worn on whichever finger you prefer. Expensive or cheapo—another fabulous must-have for the holidays. The bare neck is out, very five-years-ago. Chunky “statement” necklaces of every variety look super chic. It really doesn’t get better than this.

RING IT UP: Cocktail rings in an array of stones from SuzyLandaNewYork.com

As the holiday season peaks, surround yourself with family and friends, then shower them not only with gifts, but also with the glow that comes from feeling fabulous. The real meaning of radiance. Count your blessings. Celebrate. To each and every one of my readers, my warmest wishes for a wonderfully chic Christmas week!  Ellyn Golder Saft

ps. If you have some down-time & are looking for an excellent TV binge, try “Anatomy of a Scandal” with Sienna Miller & Michelle Dockery (from Downton Abbey) on Netflix. An addictive mystery, Sienna Miller’s wardrobe is filled with Stella McCartney & The Row–a must-watch for fashionistas!