Canadian Gift Guide

Last year was all about seventies silhouettes, and this year we’re delving back into mid-century modern, Mad Men-inspired looks. Suddenly pin-up pretty and bombshell styles are all the rage, but with a ladylike, refined twist. Today’s gift picks are five truly inspired gift ideas that’ll help the ladies in your life channel this classic era.

Big Cruise Hat: $14.99 + Strapless Elegance Bathing Suit: $69.95 @ La Vie En Rose
If you’re already gearing up for summer you no doubt have that perfect swimsuit on your mind. Cut a flattering figure in this criss-cross one-piece that oozes 50’s beach bombshell sensuality: covered up and classy. Top it off with a whimsical floppy hat for a look that channels a Hollywood starlet on the beaches of Cannes. The hat makes a great, affordable gift for your best gal pal you’re planning to hit the beach with this upcoming sunny season, while your girlfriend / fiancee / wife will adore that you didn’t go for an itsy bitsy bikini if you treat her to some surprise swimwear for your anniversary.

Pin Up Balms – $4-$5 each
I honestly can’t remember where I first heard of these, but I’ve actually bought a few of them as gifts, long before this blog was ever established..so you know I more than stand by it. Anyway….Pin Up Balms come in dozens of flavours inspired by cheesecake, sweet treats, and cocktail hour, to name just a few, and every little retro tin container is emblazoned with a vintage pin-up image. Aside from the sweet packaging, you’ll be happy to know the balms themselves are all-natural and packed with moisturizing ingredients like beeswax and avocado oil. They’re a super affordable idea for a friend’s birthday, or bookmark them in your mind come Christmastime for stocking stuffers.

Nude Tulip Lace Eternity Stockings – $29 @ Dollhousie Bettie
If you want to bring the pin-up look into your everyday life, consider a pair of sexy stockings with that coveted seamed back that immediately draws attention to your stems. A classic lace garter finishes the look for a look that’s equally fun to rock during the workday as it is during those long, loving evenings with your hubby. Ladies – pick up a pair for your sister or love-you-like-a-sister girlfriend that’s craving a splash of retro in her life. Gents – got a hot date or an anniversary on the horizon? Spice things up with these sweet nothings.

Bettie Page iPhone 4 Covers – $14.95 each @ Gelaskins.com
The original pin-up queen Bettie Page is a surefire way to show your allegiance to the 50s brand of sexiness, as demonstrated with these demure-yet-dashing iPhone Gelaskins. If you’re having a hard time choosing between minty green or sky blue, keep this in mind: along with being beautiful and protective, Gelaskins are completely replaceable. The price point makes it a great pick for your pal’s upcoming party – she definitely won’t want to lose her cell phone if it’s decked out with a dashing pin-up!

Kenley Doll Bandana – $18 @ Kenley Collins
I’m a Project Runway fan, and one of my true fave designers on the show is the retro-chic, love-to-hate Kenley Collins. Known for her blunt commentary, loud laugh, and Bettie Page-inspired personal style, Kenley’s designs are brimming with girly attitude and always impeccably made. She offers a small selection of pieces in her online store (which ships to Canada), but I gravitated toward this small slice of pin-up heaven: a classic bandana ideal for pulling back pin curls or tying around your neck in a fun, doll silhouette print. Pick it up for your fellow ProjRun fan!

Sunglasses – $8-$15 each @ Tobi
When I come up with an idea for a blog post, it’s rarely written all at once. I often jot down notes about things I come across on certain themes. So I had a note to visit Tobi for retro / mod sunglasses, and figured I would only find one pair…but alas, I could hardly narrow it down to six, let alone a single set of shades. From embellished wayfarers to printed cats eye to quirky shapes and patterns, you’re bound to find a pair of retro-inspired specs to shield your eyes this summer. May I recommend a pair to go with the stunning La Vie En Rose set pictured above? Well I just did. Given the crazy-affordable price point, stock up on these and give them to your bridesmaids in a sunny day goodie bag, or shell them out to your gracious hostess when she invites you to a weekend at her lakeside cottage.