I saw the light
Lindsey Adelman Studio ( www.lindseyadelman.com ) has a line-up of chandeliers and similar items that are genuine conversation-starters. However, be prepared to pay a little for the works of art—but they're worth it: A custom chandelier commissioned by Rogers Marvel Architects runs $14,700, and Burst ( pictured ) is $33,000.
Super Annie
Annie Lennox has a voice that appeals to millions, and she only reinforces that love on the modern classic A Christimas Cornucopia ( www.amazon.com; $11.38 ) . On the CD, Lennox—who has moved people physically and emotionally on songs ranging from "Sweet Dreams" to "No More I Love You's"— unveils interpretations of 11 traditional festive songs, concluded by a new composition, "Universal Child."
Art and soul
Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art ( www.mcachicagostore.org ) has a store with some of the most undeniably cool items I've seen in some time. Swedish designer Nina Jobs is the mastermind behind the Barbara carafe ( $79 ) , which can be a container or a vase. The Sorgente tumblers ( $40 ) have a unique texture that makes the objects look like they're made of crumpled glass. There's also the Banksy Magneto Diary 2012 ( $15.99 ) , which has eight of Banksy's most iconic images.
Jet real
For the truly indulgent, Magellan Jets ( www.MagellanJets.com ) —which specializes in domestic and international private jet travel—is offering gift cards. Magellan Jets offers a variety of flexible private-jet membership programs as well as point-to-point services. However, with flights costing in the four figures at a minimum ( depending on factors, such as the jet size you want ) , a gift card might come in handy—although the experience will be dreamlike.
The rain event
The luxury "Westminster" umbrella ( www.ArcherAdams.com; $265 ) , made famous by designer Archer Adams, can almost make standing out in the rain fun ( although in Chicago, we also have to contend with the wind ) . The hand-crafted, silver-handled Westminster is available in two sizes ( long classic and collapsible ) , and comes in eight different designs, including a lion's head, snake and Labrador. You can also add a Swarovski crystal head, if you so desire.
Soap and glory
Treat loved ones to a luxurious at-home spa experience with the Sothys Perfumed Soap Trio Box ( www.sothys-usa.com; $20 ) . Made in France, each soap is engraved with the Sothys logo and individually wrapped—and with fragrances such as lemon and petitgrain ( an oil from the bitter orange plant ) ; orange blossom and cedarwood; and vanilla and sandalwood, can you really go wrong?
Mirror, mirror
The Andersonville home-furnishings store Cassona ( www.cassona.com ) has some very interesting items—and in this case, "interesting" is a very good thing. In addition, the offerings are affordable. Check out the ck mesh metal mirror ( $125 ) , the striation clock ( $99 ) and Hayden table lamp ( $69.95 ) .
Here's mud in your eye
Borghese Fango Ristorativo Restorative Hydrating Mud Mask For Face and Body ( www.amazon.com; $47 ) is formulated with Acqua di Vita to hydrate and energize skin, and even contains Tahitian sea water to help nourish and replenish skin with vital marine nutrients. You'll feel like a new person—or you can keep the one you have. ( Sorry, I couldn't resist. )
Geek chic
I love the many offerings available at ThinkGeek.com ( www.thinkgeek.com ) . Among the various items are the Doctor Who TARDIS Talking Cookie Jar ( $29.99 ) , bottle-opener cufflinks ( $49.99 ) , the Electronic Music Synthesizer Shirt ( $24.99 ) , Star Wars Vader's Dark Side Roast Coffee ( $14.99 ) and the Etch-A-Sketch iPad case ( $39.99 ) .
Showing heart
If you want to give something meaningful to a total stranger, consider the items in Heartland Alliance gift catalog ( www.heartlandalliance.org/howtohelp/giveagift/ ) . The local agency allows you to donate $25 for a child's books; $50 for a child's winter outerwear; and $100 for a check-up and prescription medication.
Over ( stock ) and under
Overstock ( www.overstock.com ) has been helping millions of people ( including yours truly ) save loads of money. ( What's really cool when you buy something on clearance, and have the free shipping. ) Among the myriad items you can purchase are a book on Oprah Winfrey, a piano cutting board, Barska binoculars and a glitter heart jewelry box. ( By the way, be selective about the recipient of the binoculars. )
To your health
The Yonanas Maker ( www.yonanas.com; $49.99 ) takes the healthful and makes it decadent. Taking fruits and vegetables ( anything from peaches to pumpkin ) , the item creates a creamy frozen treat that looks and tastes like soft-serve ice cream. In addition, there's a recipe book to help you create flavors such as lemon raspberry and even mint chocolate chip. Also, these sounds like concoctions I can actually make.
Pong and short of it
With the love of all things i ( e.g., iPads and iPhones ) reaching a zenith, it's only natural that people would want items to protect their high-tech investments. Pong ( www.pongresearch.com ) just doesn't have any old cases, however. Not only are they attractive, but they are the only protective cases on the market that have been proven effective in FCC-certified laboratories—pretty impressive in our book ( or iPad ) .
In the quirks
Quirky ( www.quirky.com ) is for anyone who's a fan of the innovative. I'm practically in love with Pivot Power ( $29.99 ) , a power strip that can be molded in a variety of configurations. Also, the Mantis clip-on task lamp ( $29.99 ) is a cool item that you could put at the bottom of your computer screen or have stand on its legs that have rubberized end pieces.
Fifty and fabulous
Five decades after its historic debut, a timeless classic returns to dazzle audiences young and old. West Side Story: 50th Anniversary Edition ( www.amazon.com; $29.99 ) has made its Blu-Ray debut. Featuring the famous songs "Maria," "America," "Tonight," and "I Feel Pretty," This edition showcases performances by Best Supporting Actress winner Rita Moreno ( The King and I ) , Best Supporting Actor winner George Chakiris ( Two and Two Make Six ) and Russ Tamblyn ( How the West Was Won ) . Just don't blame me if you start singing or dancing.
Shop 'til you drop
Sometimes, the best items are right in front of you—or at least on State Street or Water Tower Place. At Macy's ( www.macys.com ) , you can find everything from Betsey Johnson wine stoppers ( $35 ) to a Michael Kors watch ( $250 ) to a Polo Ralph Lauren Bowl ( $50-$90 ) .
Brief encounter
Here are a couple hot entries in the underwear market. A graduate of the International Academy of Design, Richard Dayhoff ( www.facebook.com/richarddayhoff ) has designs that have been sold for the past 20 years in more than 300 retail establishments nationwide. Also, you might want to check out the Jack Adams Ranger Fly X jockstrap ( www.10percent.com; $23.95 ) designed to lift and make you look sexy—although we can't guarantee you'll like the model.
Made in the shades
Ellison Sunglasses ( www.EllisonSunglasses.com; $95 ) is a unisex label that will not only help you look chic but be charitable. Ellison—founded by Patrick Stanley, 23—has teamed with the Himalayan Cataract Project, which assists in life-changing eye care for the impoverished; 50 percent of Ellison's proceeds are donated to the cause.
The spirit world
elit by Stolichnaya ( www.elitbystoli.com; $59.99 ) recently was awarded the 97 "platinum" rating and is considered "The Best Tasting Vodka in the World." The website talks about the process it takes to get the final product, but forget the words: You can't argue with its taste.
Gaiam gifts
Gaiam ( www.gaiam.com ) states that it focuses "on personal development, health & wellness and global consciousness." Apparently, it also focuses on saving you some green, as items such as the natural silk beaded capelet have been discounted substantially ( $29.99, down from $68 ) . However, you may also be surprised by the wide variety of objects available, such as a teak-carved wine rack ( $149 ) and the deep penetrating light therapy device ( $369 ) , using a technique first researched by NASA for use in the space program.
Being naughty
Get that naughty girl Wet for Her ( www.wetforher.us; $39-$115 ) , erotic toys from a lesbian-owned company. Products include Four More, which has three speeds; and Three Luxe, which has 10 speeds and a remote that can work from up to 23 feet away. It could certainly make that PTA meeting more interesting.
Soft touch
There's nothing like the feel of cashmere. To that end, Cashmere Boutique ( www.cashmereboutique.com ) has a full line of items, including scarves, robes, pajamas, coats, throws and sweaters. However, some really unique offerings include the pashmina wrap with Swarovski crystals and the leopard-print throw. Also, keep in mind that there are faux items for the fur-phobic.
The Mills are alive...
Are you familiar with Forman Mills ( www.FormanMills.com ) ? If not, you may want to, especially if you're looking to save a few bucks. However, if you do, you'll have to get off the couch; you can look at items but in order to buy, you'll have to visit the actual locations. In Chicago, Forman Mills stores are at 4520 S. Damen Ave., 122 W. 79th St. and 1450 N. Cicero Ave.
Hail to the beef
Previously available exclusively to professional chefs at leading restaurants around the country, Meyer Natural Angus ( www.meyernaturalangus.com ) is offering its artisan cuts and premium ground beef delivered to your doorstep within 24 hours. By the way, Meyer is the only major beef brand that has earned both the Certified Humane designation for its animal-husbandry processes and the American Culinary Federation's Seal of Approval for superior quality.
Sweet sensation
Sweet Shop USA ( www.sweetshopusa.com ) has a variety of handmade chocolate goodies to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can choose truffles, chocolate-covered Oreos or even something called "Fudge Love"—which sounds like something I encountered last Saturday.
You do know Jack
Jack Mackenroth: 2012 Calendar for the Cure ( www.jackmackenroth.com; $14.95 ) is an autographed, glossy 15-month calendar. A variety of top-notch photographers capture the very cut former Project Runway contestant in some delectable poses. Also, your lust will be rewarded, as 100 percent of the proceeds from the calendar will go directly to amfAR, The American Foundation for AIDS Research.
Chair apparent
No doubt the Chaheati All-Season Heated Chair ( www.chaheati.com; $89.99 ) will come in handy in cooler climes. The seat is called "All-Season" because it has four temperature settings ( including "deep-fry," we imagine ) , and is resistant to the element. Better yet, the chair has a replacement battery for purchase, so you can go camping or tailgating for years in comfort.
Soy to the world
Having seen the soy lights at the Ohio-based Candle Lab ( www.TheCandleLab.com; $15 ) , I can tell you that they smell amazing. They also come in more than 120 fragrances, including rainbow candle, lemongrass, mango, spiced rum, brown sugar, chai tea, cannabis and Dad's den. Yes, you read those last two correctly. ( For those who want alternatives, there are also room sprays and diffusers. )
Gaydar detection
If you find yourself confused, and feel that your gaydar's a little off, maybe you'd like to invest in a Gaydar Gun ( www.GaydarGun.com; $29.95 ) . This toy tells it all via 650 "Oracles of Truth" that has fun with everyone, no matter where they fall on the "Homo-meter" scale—and it has male and female settings. What's more, the gun transforms into an alarm clock featuring the Gaydar theme song sung by Gwen Stewart, who starred in the original Rent. ( By the way, people can use the code word "SEXY" to knock $5 off the price. )
Ize here
The company NiteIze ( www.niteize.com ) —"night eyes"—has a variety of items for those who get around in the dark. ( You know who you are. ) The units ( all of which incorporate "LED illuminating functionality" ) include the SpotLit for keychains; BikeLit for cyclists; SlapLit for joggers; and even light-up flying discs for pets ( or college students ) .
