Non-Cheesy Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day...one of those days that people either love or they love to hate.  It's totally filled with all of those gimmicky "Hallmark" things and February 14th can be a painful reminder that one is more single than single this year but this holiday is also totally sweet with all the cutesy heart-shaped decorations, candy and let's not forget wine!  Valentine's Day doesn't require a significant other to be celebrated.  Celebrate the best girls in your life, your family, pets, or even yourself!  Of course, it's easy to run by Walgreens and grab a stuffed bear holding a heart (it is the thought that counts), but if you're searching for a more thoughtful gift for your S/O (or treating yo-self), here's some non-cheesy gifts that they will LOVE.

Personally, my boyfriend and I prefer experiences over gifts for this holiday.  Last year, we went to a concert at an intimate venue here in STL and it was hands down the best Valentine's Date.  Tickets to a concert, sporting event, play, movie, or any experience (cooking class, pottery making), the list could go on always make a great gift.

You've seen them drop their phone more than once.  The roses on this phone case will last much longer than the Valentine's bouquet and the case will help protect from any mishaps.

Casetify - Red Roses Phone Case

It's all in the signs.  Zodiac rings that are cool, minimal, and she'll want to wear every day.

Mejuri - Zodiac Ring

Men often have a hard time shopping and spending money on themselves so why not treat him to some new shoes so he can toss the old, worn out ones away?

Nordstrom - Vans 'Authentic' Sneakers

What's Valentine's Day without a little poetry?

This Valentine Taco shirt (plus many, many more tees) are available at Gabriel Clothing Co.

Gabriel Clothing Co. - Roses are Red Tee

Nobody prints off photos nearly as much as they should these days.  This small, portable photo printer is perfect for girls nights, parties, and of course date nights.

Amazon - HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer

A charming coffee table book for romantics who are crushing, committed, or anywhere in between.

Amazon - I Like You, I Love You

Heart-shaped glitter earrings will have her all heart-eyes.

Macy's - kate spade new york Gold-Tone Heart Glitter Square Stud Earrings

This mug says it all, "You're my person".

Target - 15oz Porcelain You're My Person Stackable Mug

Because home is where the heart is...how adorable is this heart print welcome mat!?

Etsy - Black & Wheat Co Heart Doormat

♥ always

Allison

Photo Sources:  Casetify, Mejuri, Nordstrom, Amazon, Gabriel Clothing Co., Macy's, Target, Etsy

Trending Now: Rainbow Bright

Normally I stick to a pretty basic wardrobe color scheme: black, white, and gray.  I find it easier to mix and match, and you can easily look put together in a neutral.  But as of lately, I've been really crushing on this multi-color stripe, "rainbow" trend.  Honestly, I think this style inspiration really stems from Taylor's little sequin rainbow number in "Big Reputation".  Ever since I laid eyes on it, I'm pretty much like GIVE ME ALL THE RAINBOW AND SEQUINS.  So there's that.

Image via Marie Claire

Am I wrong to feel like this!?  I didn't think so...so I've searched the internet high and low and rounded up what I've found to be my favorite on-trend rainbow inspired pieces that will surely make you smile.

Insert salsa girl emoji here!  This rainbow dress makes as many statements as possible!  The color palette, ruffle detailing, and one shoulder silhouette makes this dress a no-brainer option for a wedding or backyard BBQ alike.

Vici | Rainbow Bright One Shoulder Dress

This vintage cut dress from Modcloth has a more muted, darker color combination that will easily transition into early fall.  Pack this number in your suitcase when traveling and you have a no-fuss option to throw on and go exploring during the day.  Best of all, it has POCKETS!

Modcloth | Halter Midi Dress with Ruffle Hem

Date night?  Dress = Check

This playful number will be the talk of the town...AND it's 50% OFF!

Grab it before its gone! (There are also 7 other patterns and colors to choose from!)

Nordstrom | Surplice Maxi Dress

Heading to Mexico or anywhere with a beach?  This cheery kimono sleeve maxi dress is easy to throw on for dinner after lounging (and perhaps sipping on one too many cocktails with cute little umbrellas) by the pool all day  :)

Love, Fire | Kimono Sleeve Maxi Dress

Heading out for a night of dancing or perhaps (ahem) to the Taylor Swift concert?  This Topshop rainbow sequin bodysuit will have everyone complimenting you with, "YASSS, QUEEN!" all night long.

Topshop | Rainbow Sequin Bodysuit

This jumpsuit just became your new birthday suit because it was definitely designed for celebrating something.

Topshop | Rainbow Sequin Jumpsuit

Every day is Sunday Funday, weekend vibes in this rainbow-printed graphic tee.

Nordstrom | BP. Weekend Graphic Tee

Dress up a tee and jeans ensemble or dazzle in a dress!  This spectacular style piece will enhance your day, night, and life!

Modcloth | Life's But a Gleam Statement Necklace

This modern rainbow V-shaped pendant necklace is the ultimate finishing touch to add a splash of color to a little black dress.

Anuja Tolia | Rainbow Pendant Necklace

Chunky crystals radiate from the center of this striking statement pendant necklace.

Hespera Jewelry | Crystal Hoop Pendant Necklace

A colorful yet subtle approach to the rainbow trend with these delicate jewel tone crystal earrings.

Estella Bartlett | Linear Rainbow Stud Earrings

Playful tassel statement earrings are perfect for summer months when you wear your hair up!

Mad Jewels | Dolce Tassel Earrings

Totally on trend are these rimless mirrored lens aviator sunglasses!

Nordstrom | BP. 60mm Oversize Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Embrace the hue-heavy accessories with this striped clutch that pairs with pretty much anything!

Modcloth | Take Color Straw Clutch

Are you embracing the colorful trend or sticking to a more neutral wardrobe!?

♥ always
Allison

Five Things Friday

Happy Weekend and National Pizza Day!  In case you didn't know, this celebratory holiday known as National Pizza Day falls on February 9th...as if we need another reason to eat pizza.  Whether you prefer thin crust, hand tossed, or deep dish, pizza is something everyone can enjoy.  Today on 5 things Friday, all 5 things will involve PIZZA.

Express your love for pizza with this adorable heart-shaped clutch by Studio DIY.  This is available with the Can't Clutch This subscription where you'll receive a brand-new clutch exclusively designed by Kelly each month.  

Get yours here:  Can't Clutch This

Isn't everyone motivated by pizza and puppies!?  This relaxed basic tee is available on Etsy!

Pawmiscuous:  Motivated by Pizza & Puppies Tee

Grab a slice!  This cute pizza necklace would make a perfect gift for the pizza lover in your life!

PowHiSo:  Pizza Necklace

How about we do pizza for dinner and dessert today?  (Afterall, healthy New Year's resolutions ended a few days ago, right!?)  This decadent Sinful Chocolate Pizza recipe has a soft baked crust topped with Nutella, three types of chocolate, and toasted marshmallows...seriously a chocolate lovers dream come true.

Get the recipe here:  Cleobuttera - Sinful Chocolate Pizza

Lastly, we have my favorite pizza place in St. Louis.

Pizzeoli Wood Fired Pizza

Are you celebrating National Pizza Day today!?  I'd love to know how you're conquering the holiday in the comments!

♥ always
Allison

11 Eco-Friendly Fall Fashion Items to Celebrate Fair Trade Month

October is Fair Trade Month, so why not celebrate by shopping ethically?  You're updating your wardrobe for fall anyways and with choosing sustainable fashion, you're choosing to help create better lives for Artisans around the world.

Kaylana Scarf

Wrap yourself up in the bold patterned Kaylana Scarf, handmade in India.  The perfect transitional fall accessory for those gloomy, damp, and chilly mornings.

Shop the Kaylana Scarf:  Kaylana Scarf - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Peten Clutch

The Peten Clutch is handmade from traditional Mayan blouses.  Each one is unique, so you'll be guaranteed that no one will be seen with the same clutch.  Made in Guatemala, the artisans are able to invest their earnings in things we take for granted such as smokeless stoves, organic farming, and water filtration, in turn improving the entire community.

Shop the Peten Clutch:  Peten Clutch - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Nadi Ring 

The Nadi Ring is made in India.  Modern straight lines, the Nadi is distinctive with its open design and brushed silver metal texture.

Shop the Nadi Ring:  Nadi Ring - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Nakki Earrings

The Nakki Earrings, also created by Artisan Partners in India, feature the Lotus Flower, a symbol of patience and calmness. 

Shop the Nakki Earrings:  Nakki Earrings - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide 

Tarqui Necklace

The gorgeous teal blue and grey Tarqui Necklace is a stunning accent piece for fall.  The blue beads are sustainably made from the tagua seed and are secured with slate grey leather.  Created in Ecuador, artisans are able to make a living for themselves without leaving their villages, keeping their families together and allowing them to invest in education for their children and themselves.

Shop the Tarqui Necklace:  Tarqui Necklace - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide 

Pangani Keychain

Add some flair to your keys or clip on your handbag!  The Pangani Keychain is made in Kenya from sustainably-sourced leather.  Female artisans in Kenya are able to earn a living wage to provide their children with a healthy nutrition and education.

Shop the Pangani Keychain:  Pangani Keychain - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Nisolo Frida Loafer

Classic, chic, the loafer is currently one of the hottest trends (and may never really go out of style).  The Nisolo Frida Loafer is handcrafted in an ethical factory in León, Mexico.  

Shop the Nisolo Frida Loafer:  Nisolo Frida Loafer

SLUMLOVE The Vee Tee

You can't get by without a go-to basic white tee.  The Vee Tee from SLUMLOVE is the perfect shape for everyday wear with favorite jeans or throw on a leather jacket the casual-cool look. 

Shop the SLUMLOVE Vee Tee:  SLUMLOVE The Vee Tee - White

Krochet Kids Naomi in Organic

Classic on the front, cute cutout on the back.  The Krochet Kids Naomi, created from 100% organic cotton in Peru, is a staple long sleeve top perfect for cooler temperatures. 

Shop the Krochet Kids Naomi:  Krochet Kids Naomi in Organic

Alternative Apparel Fifty Yardliner Printed Burnout Vintage French Terry T-Shirt

I'm crazy about camo this fall, so this Alternative Apparel French Terry T-Shirt HAD to make the cut.  The athletic-inspired, ultra-soft crewneck sweatshirt is a great option whether you're hitting up a yoga class, relaxing with friends, or watching Sunday football.

Shop the Alternative Apparel Fifty Yardliner T-Shirt:  Fifty Yardliner Printed Burnout Vintage T-Shirt

Everlane Mid-Rise Skinny Jean (Ankle)

Remember those loafers from above?  Cropped denim jeans are almost essential for a pair of loafers and this pair from Everlane is designed with ease from premium Japanese denim with a touch of stretch for a flawless fit.

Shop the Everlane Mid-Rise Skinny Jean:  Everlane Mid-Rise Skinny Jean (Ankle)

Which items are you adding to your wardrobe this month?  I'd love to know!

♥ always

Allison

Fair Trade Fashion: Mangal Bracelet

The Mangal Bracelet is the Threads Worldwide piece featured in this post and let me tell you, this thing is gor-geous.  The Mangal Bracelet is a Threads Exclusive and features 3-strands of multicolored beads with soft yellow tassels. The colors are PERFECT for fall, but the section that completely drew me in was the turquoise-green square beads in it. They seriously had me mesmerized.  This bracelet is also adjustable, so it'll fit wrists of all sizes! It's a great piece to layer with others or totally makes a stand-out statement on its own. 

Handmade in Guatemala, our Artisan Partners use techniques inspired by Mayan culture to create fascinating beaded jewelry.  With the income that they earn, they're able to invest in smokeless stoves, solar technology, organic farming, and water filtration to benefit their entire communities.

Mangal Bracelet

Mangal Bracelet 1

The Mangal is a great accent to a mustard yellow toned blouse, really highlighting the tassel detailing.  Throw on your favorite jeans, and a pair of booties and you're good to go for those still sorta warm, not really sure how to dress fall days.  Featured here with the Toluca Stud Earrings, which you can shop here:  Toluca Earrings - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Mangal Bracelet 2

Add a pop to a solid colored dress with the Mangal Bracelet.  Throw on a pair of flats, crossbody bag, Mulki Scarf, and you're all set for a day at a festival, whether it's a Craft Fair or Oktoberfest :)
Shop the Mulki Scarf here:  Mulki Scarf - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Mangal Bracelet 3

For a night out, add a splash of color to a monochromatic look with the Mangal.  Featured here with the stunning Indravati Necklace, three strands draping of gold-tones glass beads.
Shop the Indravati Necklace here:  Indravati Necklace - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Shop the Mangal Bracelet here:

Mangal Bracelet - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Photo Source:  Threads Worldwide

♥ always

Allison

Fair Trade Fashion: Pankha Necklace

The Pankha Necklace is a Threads Worldwide exclusive handmade by our artisan partners in India.  Not only is it the perfect statement piece for fall, but every sale from the Pankha empowers the artisans to advance socially and economically, allowing them to send their children to schools rather than beg on the streets.

Back in June, the Threads Worldwide conference took place in Denver, CO.  The Fair Trade Partners that were there were able to have the first look at (and model!) the fall pieces.  Once the BIG REVEAL came, I immediately had my hands on the Pankha Necklace.  The fan-fringe detailing is huge right now and the gray-blue thread flawlessly falls into the neutral trend.  Bottom line, this necklace is a modern and fun must-have for fall-winter.

 Pankha Necklace 

Pankha Necklace 1 by missallierae

I'm totally crushing on the army print trend at the moment.  The Pankha favors greens like no other.  I paired the Pankha with another Threads Exclusive piece in this set, the Mangal Bracelet.  The Mangal is handmade in Guatemala, and let me tell you, this thing is gor-geous.
Shop the Mangal Bracelet here:
Mangal Bracelet - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Pankha Necklace 2 by missallierae

The perfect transitional outfit, a sundress and booties.  This look is featuring the Toluca Earrings.  Handmade by artisan partners in Mexico, the Toluca Earrings feature gold-toned brass pyramids on sterling-silver posts and are perfect for everyday wear.
Shop the Toluca Studs here:
Toluca Earrings - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Pankha Necklace 3 by missallierae featuring a high heel bootie

And lastly, the Pankha pairs with a boho blouse like a match made in accessory heaven.

Shop the Pankha Necklace here:
Pankha Necklace - Allison Young, Threads Worldwide

Photo source:  Threads Worldwide

♥ always
Allison