Last week, Andru of Gear Live invited me to be a part of their Holiday Bash in Seattle, and give my picks in fashion, beauty and fitness for the season. Gear Live is a big tech blog based here, and since its readers are mostly male, I wanted to highlight items not just because I'm into them myself, but because they're functional and approachable. I wanted these to be the kinds of gifts Gear Live fans could easily buy online and in local stores without the fear of it being too fashionable or irrelevant to the special someone they're shopping for. I am not much for holiday guides, but thought I should put this up for those who wanted to see them:

1. The search for a sustainable, zero-waste, grippy yoga mat is over. I have this Manduka pro Lite mat on my wish list for next year's burpees in the park.

2. Scotch & Soda skyrocketed high onto my favorite stores list after I hosted an event at their U-Village store earlier this fall. I've been wearing the Maison Scotch fluffy punk scarf with everything lately. It puts the definitive Seattle touch on my outfit :) 

3. I am not into wearing a ton of makeup and spend much more of my time and money on keeping my skin healthy. That includes regular facials at skoah - and at home I use many of their products! My favorite product is the skoah Hydra Dew Mask. It keeps your face & neck hydrated and moisturized and gentle enough to use everyday (and leave on all day if you forget.) I recommend this to everyone, for the plane, in desert heat and in the harsh winter temps. 

4. I'm not a trendy fragrance person and when I find one I like, I tend to stick to it for years. I've just added Oribe's Côte d'Azur eau de parfum to my boudoir. The sandalwood, jasmine & bergamot are the perfect notes. You can find it in Seattle at Robert Leonard Salon & Spa next to Jazz Alley!

5. I love my Converse rubber All-Star hi-tops - and they're a hit with men, women and kids! They're on sale at Nordstrom if you can get your hands on a pair. They're going fast!