Originally published in Potentials
magazine, June 2006The little things are often the hardest to get just right. Whether finding the right bag to match an outfit or choosing cuff links to add sophistication, looking like you have it all together can mark the difference between making an impression and making a good one. But because fashion accessories are an expression of personal taste, they are often overlooked as gifts. While it can be hard to choose one that will appeal to someone on your list, if the match is right, the recipient will cherish the gift much longer than a season.
FOR WOMEN:Coach Soho Leather Soft Duffle Stylish buckles and contrast stitching add a casual flair to the glove-tanned leather of this polished, urban bag. It's large enough to lose your mail in, but three interior pockets (two open, one with a zipper) ensure belongings stay organized. Available in mahogany and black, with an adjustable shoulder strap.
$258,
www.coach.comAnne Mille PE Bags This line of reusable, polyethylene bags was developed to counter plastic shopping-bag waste, but the standard floral pattern ensures they're as stylish as they are socially responsible. Even better, bags can be emblazoned with a logo or four-color image, so your company will look good on the arms of trendsetters all over town. Styles available include large and small totes, messenger bags, handbags and cosmetic cases.
Prices vary, 866-4YANS-NY,
www.yansny.comCoach Soho Mini Signature Simple, yet elegant, this small purse looks sophisticated at work, at home or on vacation. The main pocket provides adequate storage for daily carryalls, and a zip pocket can contain apartment keys or medication—anything you don't want falling to the bottom of the bag. There's also a ring to clip keys or other accessories to. Available in black, mahogany or with Coach's signature Jacquard fabric.
$198,
www.coach.comBellagio Pocket Wallet in Fuchsia or Tangerine Slim and cute to boot, this wallet is ideal for women who prefer the sleek to the carryall. Made of Italian nubuck leather, the outside is textured for easy gripping while the interior is smooth. There's space for six credit cards and folded currency, and an ID pocket will diminish time spent fumbling in security lines. Discounts available for bulk orders.
$38,
www.levenger.comFOR MEN: Newbury Billfold The nylon wallet is the mark of the amateur, but Levenger revives the maligned textile with this grown-up billfold. The leather interior has six sleek credit card slots, while the ballistic nylon exterior ensures the owner has a firm grip on his assets.
$48,
www.levenger.comLogo Cufflink Employees may balk at wearing a loud corporate message on their sleeve. But translating your logo onto a cufflink is an elegant and subtle way to keep your brand at hand. Best known for making recognition pins, Terryberry offers numerous enhancement and design options.
Prices vary,
www.terryberry.comDouble Your Money Clip For a high roller who likes to have cash on hand, this double money clip embossed with a Jacquard design will never fail. The clip slides over the bills, keeping them secure no matter how thick the stack.
$128,
www.brooksbrothers.comTextured Tie Clip This elegant tie bar will dress up his most boring tie. Ideal in winter or summer, it is fashioned of sterling silver and accented with a 14-karat yellow gold twining overlay.
$60, 800-367-8866,
www.fortunoff.comBarbell Cuff Links These Italian-made barbell cufflinks are a fine accent for French cuff-wearers. The design is distinctive, not distracting, and the silver brings out the color it surrounds and nestles gently in the sleeve.
$95,
www.brooksbrothers.comCharles Money Clip An unusual design, reminiscent of the binder clip found on most desks, sets this money clip apart from the more standard ones. The sides are hinged and, like the clips, fold back to release money from the silver-plated clip's grip. The sides are magnetized to keep bills from sliding around. May be engraved with circular monogram or up to three initials.
$40,
www.redenvelope.comMaple Pen Holder If you've already given them a pen, why not a nice place to put it. This simple solid-wood pen-holder can be engraved with a message or logo.
$3.75 each for 50 or more.
www.promopeddler.comOpal Mosaic Tie Tac This stylish tie tac combines opal and 14-karat gold to add a beautiful shimmery touch to a summer suit. The opal is best accented by the lighter colors worn in the summer months. Corporate pricing available.
$40, 800-367-8866,
www.fortunoff.com