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Allrounder Teramo

Updated Dec 2, 2007

Description

Allrounder is the more fashionable, slightly more youth-oriented brand that was launched by Mephisto a few years ago. They make some cool, casual city-style sneakers and have really come a long way since the brand's inception.

These Allrounders have a nice funky look without getting too crazy. Perfect for casual days.

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Alessi Cotton Swab Holder

Updated Dec 2, 2007

1st to recommend

Description

Oh CMON. You know you want this. Very cute and playful, and makes the ear-cleaning task that much more cheerful. I wouldn't mind having this hold my q-tips. It's not so expensive (around $30), comes in three colors and is made by Allesi. Design by Stefano Giovannoni.

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iittala Lantern

Updated Dec 2, 2007

Description

iittala makes lots of nice things out of glass. I just saw this candle holder and have to say it's rather pretty. It's a simple, modern design, but has some warm, nice curves.

It holds a candle in the top which reflects it's flame through the glass. It comes in subtly dyed colors, such as Blueberry or Moss green.

By Finnish designer Harri Koskinen for iittala.

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Multi Color Dolls - by MUJI

Updated Jan 7, 2008

Description

You may have heard of MUJI - the minimalist, no-brand-name brand from Japan. They just introduced these stuffed animal dolls and I think they are, um, quite cute. They're made out of recycled yarn so they're somewhat eco-friendly to boot! Would make a nice children's gift or something for the friend who loves huggable things (and who doesn't?)

Personally, I can't decide if I like the Elephant or Dog better. Though the bunny's got a nice smile...

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Academic Superstore

Updated Dec 2, 2007

Description

Isn't it ironic that just when you probably have your most meager income, discounts are offered to you on products that you still cannot afford?

Well, if you can save up just enough to get them, Academic Superstore has some seriously deep discounts on professional products and computer software. For example, you can get the Adobe CS3 Web Design suite for only $489, as opposed to around $1400 or so list price.

Parents, if you have a child who's a student, you can purchase products for them as gifts! So go buy stuff now before they leave school. I've bought from this company before and found their selection large and their service fast and helpful.

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Giro Xen helmet

Updated Nov 30, 2007

Description

This is my bike helmet. Giro makes top-notch products that last. They also come in limited edition, cool color combinations every year.

The Xen is in their Mountain biking category, but it works perfectly well for road riding as well. It has a little more protection in the back of the head (which is important) and a useful little sun visor up front. Plenty of well spaced, well designed vents keep you cool. It also has a ratcheting lock in the back to get a perfect fit. Highly recommend.

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Clote Velcro Key Holder

Updated Nov 30, 2007

Description

Cool, funky design that would go well with a mod or 60's apartment theme. My only concern is that the Velcro strap o n the keys will pick up all kinds of gunk. But otherwise, very nice.

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Candle Snuffer

Updated Nov 30, 2007

Description

Are you afraid of candles? Not the candle itself, but the fire? When it comes time to put them out, do you flee the room in terror? Well no more!

This tong shaped device securely squeezes even the most stubborn wick, snuffing it's fire out quickly and painlessly with a minimal amount of smoke.

Made by Kurz Kurz of Germany. $40.

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Leica 8x50 Ultravid HD / Black Armored Binoculars

Updated Nov 30, 2007

Description

Ooohh, I want. Packed with solid Leica optics, this pair of binoculars goes up to 50x magnification. Additionally, it's waterproof and resists dust, smudges and fingerprints. And of course, the classic red Leica logo is tastefully included.

Only $2k. Anyone wish to buy them for me?

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4YOU - Men's apparel

Updated Nov 29, 2007

Description

4YOU is a Danish Menswear brand that is just starting to hit the states. Their collections span just about every category, from full-up suits to basic T-shirts. They have a very unique, super cool style that I haven't seen anywhere else. Best of all, their prices are good - it's more than WalMart, but they don't pretend to be Armani.

Currently they only have one store, but many of their stuff can be ordered online. I wouldn't mind getting some of their clothing as a gift :)

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Smith I/O Goggle

Updated Nov 29, 2007

Description

With rimless, interchangeable lenses and an über cool design, the Smith I/O Snow sports goggle would make a great gift for the snowboarder/skier on your list.

Comes with 2 lenses and more should be available.

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Cableman CableWrapper

Updated Nov 28, 2007

1st to recommend

Description

My new best friend! Sure, there are other cable management solutions for your iPod, but none are as cute as this little guy. He dutifully holds your excess earphone wire in his mouth and his...crotch. Maybe that's why he looks a little sad.

Anyway, it has a nice, rubbery but slippery feel to it, and they come in some nice, light pastel colors. It's a great thing to have to keep your earphones/headphones at just the right length. So far, it's been able to hold my thick, Shure headphone wires without a problem. My only complaint? The more wire you wrap around him, the less you see him :)

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9 people recommended this item

Vaja

Updated Nov 27, 2007

Description

Vaja makes ultra-fine leather items for all types of electronic gadgets. But they also have a small selection of more classic leather goods.

The Euro wallet is made out of their famous, sleek leather and is customizable in color and engraving. It has a divided billfold compartment, 10 card slots (lots!) 2 utility pockets, and a coin pouch (very useful for Euros!)

I would love to get one of these. Their bags look very nice as well.

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JOOP!

Updated Nov 27, 2007

Description

Joop! (pronounced youp) is the fashion and design brand of German designer Wolfgang Joop. He makes very casual, but very cool clothing for men and has a special collection of super-flashy styles for both men and women.

Unfortunately, their boutique stores are all located in Europe, and Joop! products are hard to find in the states. But if you have a friend going overseas, ask them to get you a nice shirt!

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snowrental.com

Updated Nov 27, 2007

Description

LIke skiing and snowboarding, or just want to try it out on a winter trip? Snowrental.com lets you book your equipment rentals in advance - eliminating the fuss of trying on and picking up stuff when you'd rather go to bed, or you're eager to hit the slopes.

They also provide mountain maps, snow reports and even some webcams, so you can know what to expect. Interesting idea.

Go rent a package for someone and teach them how to ski!

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Customized Starbucks Card

Updated Mar 5, 2008

Description

A cute new idea from Starbucks. You can order online or buy a nice little red box with either the words 'Create' or 'Dream' on it. Inside is a basic white gift voucher. It costs $25.

You are supposed to give the whole box as s a gift. The giftee goes to the website and customizes a card for themselves. It's not REALLY custom, as you are stuck with 4 themes and sub-themes. But you can play around a nice amount and get something unique.

You can also order for yourself online, and each card can be personalized with some type of message. Of course, they do screen it and reserve the right to reject certain messages....I wonder what you could slip past... :D

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40 people recommended this item

Wooden Memory Stick

Updated Nov 26, 2007

Description

Ha ha, I think it's been around awhile but I'm sure there are tons of people who still haven't seen it.

"What's that??"

"It's a memory stick, why?"

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20 people recommended this item

Fish 'n Flush

Updated Nov 26, 2007

Description

Against my better feelings, I feel I must recommend this, if only to further my fascination with the wondrous things our society can produce. This would make a great gift for that certain type of person who likes these types of things (know what I mean??)

I just feel bad for the fish - can you imagine? "Uh-oh, here he comes again, looks like he's a little sick..."

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Initial Wax Seal Ring

Updated Nov 26, 2007

Description

Cmon, you know you want this. Verify that you are indeed sender of the envelope containing instructions to launch ICBMS at North Korea. Or send your friends letters and slip into Shakespeare - I could just imagine saying "Yea, so it shall be" as I seal my letters.

I have a little kit with a stamp (instead of ring) and candles to create hot wax to impression with. If I find it online I will post it.

This ring discriminates against the letters O, Q, U, X, Y, and Z. They aren't available for order!

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19 people recommended this item

Staple Free Stapler

Updated Nov 26, 2007

Description

I got this and it's actually pretty cool! It does staple 3-5 pages pretty securely by punching a hole through them, then folding back the punched paper to grasp all the pages.

It doesn't work as well as a real stapler - if you use the papers a lot, it will probably come apart. But it's a neato idea and a cool gift for kids - no more staples in your fingers! (that actually happened. Do not ask why. I am ok with only minor psychiatric tramua.)

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4 people recommended this item

Blackberry Pearl 8130

Updated Nov 26, 2007

1st to recommend

Description

Once again I join the ranks of fans of an already popular product instead of recommending it first. But I have no shame :) !

Verizon has been upping their phone selection recently, and their latest entry is the Blackberry Pearl 8130. This is the real Pearl - instant email to and from your phone, 3rd-party applications can be installed, and it comes with a calender, web browser, etc. It also has Bluetooth, but only for certain things: You can use a headset, send a picture or output the audio, but that's about it. There is a cool built in GPS, BUT Verizon (gotta love them) disabled it - it only works if you pay them $9.99 a month.

This is my first blackberry and I am very happy with it. Be warned though - it does take a few days to get used to the menus and all.

Overall, slim, cool and super functional - what more could you want in a phone?

Currently $199 with a new 2 year contract.

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Burberry Check-Trim Jacket

Updated Nov 25, 2007

Description

Conservative but a a bit more laid back. Nice and toasty with a wool and cashmere blend. Quality zippers and buttons (as you would expect) and the classic Burberry check is lined inside and under the collar. Just lift it to add a little flair.

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Loro Piana Horsey 20K Jacket

Updated Nov 28, 2007

Description

While the Loro Piana Horsey 20K Jacket may not be the most stylish of the company's offerings, it certainly is practical and downright warm. Made with a delicious blend of pure cashmere and a light layer of the finest down feathers, the Horsey will keep you warm even in winter's worst. The fabric contains their StormSytem technology, which maintains all the normal textures of the coat while making it waterproof.

This coat really works and is perfect for any man who braves the those cold winter days. Will last for a long time, and you get what you pay for.

The 20k does not refer to price, though it's not that far off :)

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