Long revered in Asian cultures for their strength, power and intelligence, elephants continue to be celebrated symbols of wisdom, longevity, royalty, happiness, and good luck.

The white elephant was chosen by Buddha as one of his many incarnations, while in Hinduism, the elephant-headed god Ganesha is worshiped as the lord of success, knowledge and wealth, among other things. As the national symbol of Thailand, the elephant is tied to the success and the prosperity of the nation.

Historically, the elephant probably made its way into the popular culture of the West around the time of British colonialism in India. Later on in the 1930s, lucky elephant charms and figurines were all the rage in the United States, Canada, and Europe.

In recent times, however, it is the elephant who has needed our protection as an endangered species. For me, therefore, the elephant represents perseverance, and seems to encompass all the majesty and beauty of the natural world in their soulful eyes, floppy ears and curious trunk.

Add it all up, and it's clear to see why the elephant is the perfect animal to artfully adorn your wardrobe in the form of a treasured piece of jewelry. Who knows, an elephant trinket might just be your ticket to good luck - and good style - in 2008! Here are ten suggestions to fit every budget:



[1] Rhinestone elephant necklace, $7.80
[2] Kenneth Jay Lane elephant necklace, $59.00
[3] Janna Connor gold/silver elephant necklace, $60
[4] Lucite elephant necklace, $6.80
[5] "Life" necklace, $4.80
[6] Jade-look elephant charm necklace, $6.00
[7] Lacquer elephant necklace, $7.80
[8] J. Crew elephant charm bracelet, $125
[9] Aldo elephant necklace, $15.00
[10] Wood and metal elephant necklace, $12.50

Someone must have been an especially good girl in 2007, because this past Christmas, the man in the red suit gifted me with a gorgeous red coat. While red is perfect for the holidays, it's also a classic, eye-catching shade that never goes out of style and looks fabulous on every complexion. Try the look for yourself this chilly winter season by bundling up in one of these affordable options.


What to wear it with: Everything! Red actually acts like a versatile neutral. Pair red with basics like white, black, camel or cream for a timeless look. Or take an unconventional approach and mix red with colors like pink, purple, or teal. Houndstooth and plaid pashminas or scarves look especially posh with a red coat. Share your styling tips in the comments.

[1] Mixit wool belted coat, sale $36.99
[2] Mango wool coat, sale $73.99
[3] INC International Concepts ruched-collar coat, $139.00
[4] McQ By Alexander McQueen wool toggle coat, sale $289.99
[5] Ann Taylor Loft funnel neck swing coat, sale $69.99
[6] Calvin Klein trapeze coat, sale $165.90
[7] Lux Bauhaus coat, sale $39.99

Over the weekend, I went to my local Tar-zhay to run a few errands - pick up some paper towels, scope out the new Global Bazaar section, hit the sale racks in clothing and accessories, try on a few pairs of shoes, mosey through the makeup aisle...ya know, the usual chores. So much to shop for, so little time - yet with so much still on clearance, so little money was spent! Here's what we bought...

Heavily Discounted LBD: When I spotted this Isaac Mizrahi for Target Taffeta Couture Bodice Dress on sale for just $12.48 (marked down from $49.99), I tossed it into my cart without hesitation. Tried it on at home and the fit is perfect. Made me feel like a ladylike Audrey Hepburn, although I plan on giving it some edge with layers of pearl necklaces, hot heels and bold makeup.


Fond Farewell: The Erin Fetherston for Target collection seemed to fly by, didn't it? Feeling nostalgic for this retired line - as well as the pull of a great deal - I decided to give this lovely Bonjour L’amour shirtdress a home. It was the very last one on the rack, you should have seen the look it gave me ("Pleeease take me! Don't leave me here all by my lonesome!") Originally $49.99, I paid just $12.48.


Puppy-Proof Boots: My boyfriend and I recently became the proud parents of the most adorable boxer puppy ever! Therefore, I was on the lookout for some cheap boots that I could wear during our many oftentimes messy walks in all kinds of crappy weather. Thankfully, I found just the ticket: These Mossimo Gillian Riding Boots are comfy, stylish (at least from a distance), and for just $17.48 (marked down from $34.99), they can take a beating (claws, mud, rain, slush, drool, chewing) and I won't have to worry one bit.

Say what you will: I love rhinestones. And I especially love the ongoing trend to embellish everything from handbags to headbands with these colorful, shiny faux gems. Some might say this clutch (left) was attacked by an overzealous 10-year-old armed with a Bedazzler - but I just say it's young and fun! Especially if paired with a otherwise understated ensemble, this clutch will give people a glimpse of your inner rhinestone cowgirl.

Rhinestone embellished clutch, on sale for $14.98 at Aldo

Find styling ideas for a mid-winter vacation or next spring by taking in these sweet new looks from Anthropologie.


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