All That Glitters...

Whether you're looking for an excuse for a little self-indulgence, or you want to pamper a loved one, I'm sure you'll find some wonderful ideas to get you in a holiday mood!


Contents

1. Get some holiday "bling" with a right-hand bling ring.
   
2. Cashmere is the must-have accessory this season. Check out some great cashmere buys for you and your man!
   
3. Indulge in the ultimate Christmas treat - a pampering, luxurious day-spa treatment.
   
4. "Sex and The City" may be over, but you can still shop for wonderful SATC-inspired jewelry online.
   

The right-hand bling ring is the latest status symbol for women who no longer feel they have anything to prove.

Women are earning more, marrying later and have more disposable income than ever before, leaving them with plenty of room for a little self-indulgence. And it goes without saying that the newest status symbol should encompass the ultimate status symbol, diamonds.

In fact, the trend has become such a major force it's been given its own (albeit lackluster) terminology - "self-purchaser".

According to Greg Distefano, a spokesman for the Diamond Information Center at J. Walter Thompson, "The self-purchase market is now a $3.75 billion business in the United States. Rings are the single largest type in this market. They account for two out of every five pieces of self-purchased jewelry."

Eager to get in on the action, DeBeers, the world's largest diamond producer, has produced a series of ads to tap into the hearts and wallets of this enormous, previously ignored, consumer demographic.

"Your left hand is your heart. Your right hand is your voice," croons their recent print ads. "Your left hand says 'I do.' Your right hand says 'I did what?' Your left hand knows the answers. Your right hand asks the questions. Your left hand rocks the cradle, your right hand rules the world. Women of the world, raise your right hand."

To read this article in full, go to the website article Right Hand Bling Rings.

As Bradley O' Brian, Design Director at Ralph Lauren so aptly puts it, "A day without cashmere is a day without sunshine."

Warm, sensual and soft against your skin, it's perfect for those cold winter days. When you think that it takes the average cashmere-producing goat almost four years to produce enough fiber for a cardigan, it's no wonder cashmere is associated with all things luxurious.

And unlike leather and fur, no animal is harmed in the process. Now doesn't that make you feel good?

Rated by the fashionistas as up there with the little black dress, every girl needs at least ONE item of cashmere in their wardrobe, so why not indulge yourself in a little cashmere this season?

Bare Necessities have a wonderful range of cashmere accessories, ranging from a wonderfully cosy cashmere robe at $350 to a pair of cashmere slippers for $89.

And if you crave real luxury at an affordable price, imagine the feel of blended silk and cashmere in a colorful cami or boyleg shorts? You can experience the luxury of cashmere and the indulgence of silk from as little as $28.99.

While you're checking out their site, make sure you have a look at the fabulous range of men's underthings. If you've been searching for stocking-stuffers for your man, you can't go past a pair of satin designer shorts!

As the days grow bleaker and the year draws to a close, it's time for some well-deserved stress relief.

I suggest the ultimate in sheer indulgence -- pamper yourself or someone you love with a day, or at the very least a couple of hours, at a luxury health spa.

The harsher climate at this time of year can play havoc on our skin, so what better way to tone up than with a luxury facial?

Or experience the pleasure of a soothing full body massage, Japanese shiatsu massage or hot stone therapy, followed by some maintenance with an expert manicure or pedicure.

For our UK readers, Days to Amaze are offering a range of "Pamper Days" for you to choose from, catering for both women and men. Their packages range from a professional manicure through to the ultimate full-day spa treatment at a luxury resort.

What better gift is there this Christmas than the gift of relaxation?

If you've been living in the dark ages for the past eight years, and didn't become addicted to the antics of four sassy single women trying to make their very individual mark on the Big Apple, then this next article isn't for you.

"Sex and the City" took New York fashion style to a new level. Carrie Bradshaw's eclectic mix of designer chic and flea market treasures influenced the way women wanted to dress and her penchant for Manolo Blahnik stilettoes saw women everywhere tottering precariously in their 4-inch heels.

The individuality of each of the four characters was expressed perfectly in their choice of outfits. Carrie's whimsical thrown-together look, Samantha's sexy confident style, Charlotte's sweet, preppy accessories and Miranda's chic corporate suits added another dimension to each of the women being portrayed.

Sex and the City was responsible for igniting trends for the to-die-for stiletto, must-have designer handbag, street chic, bobby pins, and unique, quirky jewelry.

If you loved the jewelry on Sex and the City, Emitations.com has a fabulous range of SATC-inspired jewelry. Would you like to own the horseshoe-shaped necklace just like the one worn by Sarah Jessica Parker in the final series?

Emitation's jewelry is designed with cubic zirconias and rhodium-plated sterling silver, so it's great way to get all the bling without the sting!

Look out for the next issue of "All That Glitters". I'll be letting you know about the new trends in engagement rings, influenced by Tiffany's latest Lucida setting, and the resurgence of interest in colored diamonds, plus lots more.

And if there's anything you'd like to see in an upcoming ezine, please write to me at alex@engagement-rings-guide.com and I'll see what I can do.

Stay safe!

Alex Miller http://www.engagement-rings-guide.com