Wish List

It is autumn, the excitement of the holidays is in the air, and my twentieth birthday is fast approaching. Fast approaching. As in, before I even know it I’ll be heading home for the weekend to reunite with my hometown friends and celebrate with my family. Unfortunately I’ve been so busy lately I haven’t even had time to think of what I want for my birthday! That being said, below I’ve comprised the ultimate wish list of birthday gift ideas – even if some items on the list are a little unrealistic. Hey, a girl can dream.

photo source; minneonkamoccasin.com

Elizabeth from my favorite blog, Delightfully Tacky, rocks her Minnetonka moccasins in all seasons and can make them work with virtually every outfit. She's got me craving my own pair of Minnetonka Thunderbirds. Moccasins seem to be that perfect transition shoe, because I don't think I own anything between sandals and boots.

photo source; alexandani.com

I'm very in love with my Alex and Ani compass bangle, which I bought on a sort of impulse over the summer but has definitely inspired me to start focusing on my direction in life. Not surprisingly, now that I have one of these bangles, I want more! I'm a little superstitious, so I like jewelry that feels like it has a meaning behind it. While there are lots of beautiful bangles to choose from, I think the Alex and Ani Nautical Charm bangle will remind me of my recently-found love of the beach and also remind me to stay grounded.

photo source; nordstrom.com

Just for the record, I own way too many (3) pairs of brown/tan boots. Cognac is sort of my signature shoe color, and it's taking over my closet. That said, I've never met a Steve Madden creation I didn't like, and these stacked-heel suede booties caught my eye immediately. Aren't they adorable?

photo source, amazon.com

As an English major and a lover of literature, I'm particularly fascinated in the Lost Generation, the American expatriates who made their home in Paris and lamented the disillusionment felt by the era's youth. As you can imagine, when I found this book, I was thrilled. Americans in Paris: A Literary Anthology contains the writings of not just my favorite writers, but Americans from Thomas Jefferson to Jack Kerouac and countless others in between as they describe their Parisian adventures. 

photo source, amazon.com 

Okay, no, I don't yet have the courage to use a camera tripod in public. I still get pretty embarrassed when people see my friend taking pictures of me for my "fashion" posts. But it would be pretty great to be able to take outfit pictures whenever I want, without needing to drag my roommate outside with me. Plus I'd get more use out of the great Nikon camera I got for Christmas last year. 

photo source; Nordstrom.com

Every girl needs a little black dress, and this one from Nordstrom seems to be ideal. It's not too short, tight, or low-cut, but it has a flattering v-neck and cinched waist. Plus, the sleeves are a fun length, and this looks like it can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion.

photo source; tiffany.com

Has anyone seen the beautiful holiday advertisement on the Tiffany website? It's adorable. I've been a Tiffany girl ever since I first caught a glimpse of the brand's iconic blue box, and while I'm personally holding out for a Tiffany engagement ring, these initial necklaces are gorgeous. It's my fantasy wish list, so I can throw a piece of Tiffany jewelry on here, can't I? If you're buying into the materialistic, commercial side of the holiday season, nothing shines as brightly as Tiffany & Co. in New York City during Christmastime. 

My birthday will be here (November 22!) before I know it, but Christmas won't be far behind! What's on your wishlist as the holiday season approaches?