Facebook is for the vain, glorifying self promoters who want everyone to know just how special they are via cyberspace. LOL, jk, lmfao, smh, lls, jkjk, omg, but every jest has an ounce of truth.

Facebook Me Cufflinks

Some people that graze this social network just get on our nerves and we wonder why. Is it because we really don’t want to know that much about someone whom we haven’t seen in eight years? Or is it the ruthless pseudo-farming, gaming, and obscure requests that fill our inbox daily?

Will you feed my chickens? Lend a nail for my barn? Harvest my crops?

Press to “Collect Wool” on Farmville

We are all guilty of being an annoying “friend” on facebook, flaunting our victories, rarely posting our defeats, and only posting the best pictures of ourselves, making sure our profile hides the semi-belly you’ve grown since highschool that is not, (I repeat, is not) a baby bump, and probably just the result of beer binges or frequent happy hours where you’ve gotten a little too happy, you beer monster, you…

Beer Monster Cufflinks

Let’s start with things we love:

1. Contrary to popular opinion, we DO like good news and pretty pictures. If you just won the lottery, we want to know, so we can call and “catch up.” If you are suddenly a raging beauty when, ten years ago, we couldn’t stand to look at you…we want to know! (Again, so we can “catch up”… and see if you are single). So if you now resemble Venus, by all means, send us a message…or give us a poke.

Venus Cufflinks, aka “sexy lady links”

2. We love it when you post something interesting/educational/inspiring. Anything from the New York Times normally counts as pretty cool, not only because of the material, but we don’t even have to do the research ourselves for the latest breaking news in the science world. Yes, I’d like to know what’s going on in Egypt right now and what the President said in his speech last night…

3. Music videos from artists we’ve never heard of (so we can go illegally download the song immediately) or practically any video that makes us laugh, giggle, think, reminisce, etc. Just please, don’t go posting ten videos a day because then it’s just…obnoxious.

Cool music is always welcome. Like this awesome song by The Knife:

Things we don’t like

1. Leave the relationship drama for the bedroom…or the front door, or the mall. Not on an abstract wall that people view and can comment on. Just please.

Love Stamp Cufflinks

2. This might have come up in another blog, but I have to reiterate: GRAMMAR. It’s so sad to see that someone, whom you’ve admired or somewhat liked (even as a friend) doesn’t know the difference between “to” and “too” and “their, there, they’re” and countless other grammatical errors that swamp this elicit site. You are judged. Not by your pictures, but by your words. Chose carefully friends. Poke j/k lmfao omg jkjkjkjk…really.

3. Bathroom pictures. Oh geesh, if you don’t have friends to take your picture, at least stand in front of something interesting, instead of a doorway with a mirror reflecting your hemorrhoid cream and toilet bowl. We do not want to see the contents of your bathroom and you shouldn’t be taking your phone in the bathroom anyways: germ central. Just nasty.

You’re a Pig Cufflinks

4. Posts about what YOU ARE EATING. People do not care, nor do they like to read, about the contents of your diet. it’s just plain ridiculous. “Mmm, eating Chipotle.” “Grubbing on some chocolate cake” “Taco bell for lunch. nom nom”

Hamburger Sandwich Cufflinks: you know you’re hungry…

If you post this kind of stuff, restaurant chains should start paying you for advertising. And not to mention it makes others hungry, specifically me.

1. IPhone (or actually any Apple product)

If you don’t want to actually buy the iphone for someone, or would prefer to surprise them (and we don’t mean by the expensive bill every month), you should consider any of the other apple products available: like the Apple iPod touch 32 GB (4th Generation) NEWEST MODEL, list price: $299.00.

Or if you’re really ready to splurge on a loved one, the MacBook Pro is a sure bet. The 13 inch starts at about $1199, which is cheaper than what the regular MacBooks used to be four years ago:

MacBook Pro, starting at $1199, from Apple.com

2. Amazon Kindle Wireless Device

You can’t deny the impact of technology on the literary world: the Kindle is the newest literary sensation, despite all the library/hardcover book lovers out there. Kindle Wireless Reading Device, Wi-Fi, Graphite, 6″ Display with New E Ink Pearl Technology is the latest available, and you can order it from Amazon for only $139. If you order it today, as in the 23rd, you can get it as quick as the 27th. So wrap a box with a print out picture of the Kindle and say “Here honey, Merry Christmas. It’ll be here in a few days, be patient.”

Kindle Wireless Reading Device, Wi-Fi, Graphite, 6" Display with New E Ink Pearl Technology

3. Nintendo Wii

Nintendo - Nintendo Wii Console (Red) with Wii Sports and New Super Mario Bros. Wii, $199

The Wii console has undergone a change — and it’s going to paint the town red. From the beginning, Wii has challenged you to new levels of interactivity by delivering intuitive motion controls and expanding your gaming options. Now, it’s back and bolder than ever in a vibrant red color that’s turning heads around the world.

Don’t just play — make a statement with this red Nintendo Wii Console bundle. Bringing brave modern style into your living room, this console includes matching Wii Remote Plus and Nunchuk controllers to put the power of Wii’s famous precision right into your hands, with a hot new twist. Get into the action right out of the box with an included two-game pack that takes you from the sports stadium to a fantasy castle and beyond, with the winning combo of Wii Sports and New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Whether you’re swinging a baseball bat to smash a grand slam or battling your way through a classic side-scrolling adventure, one thing’s for sure, you’ll be seeing red — in the best of ways — with this bold new Wii console.

4. Gift Basket

This is a great idea because you normally don’t have to leave the house or even type in your credit card number for this one, and it can be ultra-personalized. Think: wine, nuts, packaged spices, lotions (even little ones), candles, fruit, homemade bread/cakes/pies, picture frame or miniature picture album, a pair of cufflinks, cheese/crackers, a homemade ornament…the possibilities are endless. So get creative, find an old stray basket around the house, lay down some tissue paper, and finish it off with cellophane wrapping and a glamorous ribbon.

Or if you’re too lazy to do all that yourself, you can always buy one:

Harry & David Favorite Gift Basket, $50

5. Cufflinks

Literally every man would be happy with a nice pair of cufflinks– it’s jewelry for men! Every time you turn on the television around the holidays you see a commercial for some kind of jewelery company and normally the product featured is for women. But what about buying your man some bling too?

The latest and greatest? These brand new Butterfly Cufflinks from Peru:

Aymara Blue Dream Butterfly Cufflinks

Because the widths of the black cross bars and blue colors vary, each cufflink is one of a kind and will add a hint of enchanting color to your suit jacket. Peruvian Sterling Silver is 95% pure silver and one of the best alloys of silver in world, which increases the cufflinks’ strength, as well as their resistance to tarnishing.

Aymara Green Tea Leaf Butterfly Cufflinks

Known as the “Giant Glasswings,” our Aymara Green Tea Leaf Butterfly Cufflinks come from The Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Orphanage in Peru, where butterflies live and die naturally in a unique Amazon habitat. Their life span is normally two to three weeks, during which time their exotic green wings flutter throughout the sanctuary, and then pass on naturally. The cufflinks are made from real Thyridia Psidii butterfly wings, which are then enameled over, and set in leaf-shaped Peruvian Sterling Silver. These butterflies are recognized by their translucent, glassy wings, luscious green and yellow colors, and a dark cross bar on the hindwings. The delicate green colors of the wings from these hyaline creatures will add an charming glass-look to your cuffs.

Aymara Zebra Pillow Butterfly Cufflinks

Your purchase will support the only butterfly sanctuary in Peru, The Pilpintuwasi Orphanage, whose aims are the continuation and growth of each species. 10% of all the proceeds from these Butterfly Cufflinks go to the Amazon Animal Orphanage, because we are passionate about their cause for animal protection and preservation. You can also visit their website at: www.amazonanimalorphanage.org for more information.

4. Collection of Old Memories in a scrapbook

This can consist of old pictures, ticket stubs, random notes or stories about memories and/or adventures you’d had with each other. Really the list is endless and what’s great about this kind of gift is it’s personal and you can make it your own. It shouldn’t have to take you weeks to come up with something creative, just jot down some memories you have with someone special and think of objects that are connected with those memories. Make it funny, sincere, sentimental, and humorous. Anything goes with a “scrapbook”!

Check out www.scrapbook.com for free tips and ideas on scrapbooking!

Layout from Scrapbook.com

Happy Holidays!

Stay tuned for a “Style Icon” update that will definitely surprise you…

So we didn’t make the cut for “Oprah’s Favorite Things” this year, but we’re hoping to make it next year! Her “favorite things” are not reserved for women, but branch out to men as well. And what she says is good is basically golden. Here are our Top 7 favorites of Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2010 that we think you’ll love:

Sony BRAVIA LX900 HDTV with 3D and Blu-ray player, $3,600

1. Sony BRAVIA LX900 HDTV with 3D and Blu-ray player, $3,600

Every man wants a large, flat screen, HDTV for Christmas. So go ahead and splurge! If it’s not this brand new Sony 3D TV, that is a bit pricier than most out there, you can find a lot on sale during the Christmas season.

And with a sleek TV, you need some sleek designer cufflinks:

Tateossian Square Cushion Purple Cufflinks, $150

2. Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera, $699.95

Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera, $699.95

I have been doing photography for over 10 years and the only equipment I use is Nikon; so I was ecstatic to see that this new SLR made Oprah’s list. Nikon’s cameras are built to last, they are the most durable, and normally affordable. Especially if you’re an amateur photographer or just beginning to switch over to digital, this camera is the way to go.

Accessories to go with your new equipment? We’ve got you covered:

Sterling Camera Cufflinks

“It’s the device Oprah calls ‘the ultimate camera from the ultimate camera-makers.’ The Nikon D3100 has all the bells and whistles a camera pro would want—including hi-def video—but it can also be a simple point-and-shoot. ‘May I say,’ Oprah says, ‘it is one sexy camera.’”

3. Nike “Free Run+” Shoes, $85

Nike "Free Run+" Shoes, $85

And every man needs a nice pair of running shoes. Nike just came out with a new free-running footwear series, designed as a training tool to mimic the foot’s natural motion. It supposedly delivers extra cushioning, traction, and protection from elements, so says Ms. O.

Sterling Silver Running Shoes Cufflinks

From Oprah.com: “More than 35 years of research in the Nike Sport Research Lab, combined with feedback from elite athletes, have helped Nike to develop the Free technology, which strengthens the muscles of your feet—ultimately leading to a more efficient workout. ‘It’s the next best thing to being barefoot,’ Oprah says. ‘It weighs next to nothing.’”

4. Kyocera Ceramic Cutlery Set by Ming Knives, $74.99

Kyocera Ceramic Cutlery Set by Ming Knives, $74.99

Now, now, before you skip out of this page because we are featuring cooking utensils, wait just a minute. This new-wave knife deserves a little attention here, and secretly, we know all men love cooking knifes. You are the ones carving the turkeys, chickens, and cutting your juicy steak into succulent morsels, so maybe you should consider getting a new knife. These are made from ceramic, are ultra-sharp, rust-free, and are great gifts if you don’t want to keep it for yourself.

Ice-Slice Cufflinks by Sonia Spenser

Oprah got one of these knives as a gift from the famous chef Ming Tsai, and now she says it’s become the only knife she uses in the kitchen.

5. Elfa Customizable Closet System from the Container Store

Elfa Customizable Closet System from the Container Store

CLOSET SPACE! This is not a womanly dilemna, everyone needs organizational help! It’s a fact! Listen to us! You spend all this money on suits, ties, shirts, shoes, and accessories (like cufflinks) and where do you store them? Think about it: are they easy to get to? Can you look at your wardrobe and pick everything out without going through piles of stuff? These organizers are a great way to transform your clutter into a simple, organized array.

Mahogany Cufflinks Collectors Case, $149

Shelving always helps to– you should have a distinct shelf for separate items, such as ties, shoes, and accessories. Sort your closet according to “type,” meaning suit jackets in one section, collared shirts in another, casual shirts in another, etc. This will automatically help you pick out your clothes in the morning without the extra hassle. The key is, to be able to see everything and know where it is.

From O.com: “The elfa closet system completely customizable, but the Container Store also has designers ready online, in-store or by phone to help you design the closet of your dreams.”

6. Breville Panini Press, $100

Breville Panini Press, $100

Ahhh food! Paninis!

From the O: “This is a staple at my house,” Oprah says of the Breville Panini Press. Whether she’s using it to grill or making Stedman her original Love Sandwich, it’s clear Oprah loves this classic favorite thing. “I have personally bought 22 of these as gifts for other people,” she says.
Get the recipe for Oprah’s Love Sandwich.

Salt and Pepper Shaker Cufflinks

7. Beecher’s “World’s Best” Mac ‘N’ Cheese

Beecher's "World's Best" Mac 'N' Cheese

So this mac ‘n’ cheese is $29 a pop, which isn’t cheap for a single dish, but possibly worth it. For all your single men (or married!) out there who crave a good meal but rarely get it, the convenience and homemade aged cheese makes this worth the price. It comes shipped to you frozen, so all you have to do is toss it in the oven. And it’s the “World’s Best”! Mmm….we love our comfort food, especially around the holidays.

And lastly, we LOVE these “cheesy” cufflinks that can go with two of Oprah’s favorite items:

Say Cheese Cufflinks

We all know that Oprah is the most powerful woman in the world; and on top of that she seems to be a pretty stellar lady. Men adore her, even when they don’t want to admit it, and she shows them love too. Hope you like our favorite Oprah’s favorites, mingled with some of our own favorites. Stay tuned…

You gotta love those men who just embody style. It’s in their walk, their manner of speaking, the way their hair moves delicately in the whispering wind, the way their hands move coyly to their faded jean pockets…

Just kidding. On a serious note, it takes much more than fashion to make a style icon. There’s something very prolific about men with a beaming spirit and a reason to be different– this, inherently, is stylish. And these iconic men have changed the way we look at ourselves and the world around us. Don’t believe me? Well take a look at the first runner up in our little “Style Icon” competition: Jack Kerouac

“Great things are not accomplished by those who yield to trends and fads and popular opinion.”- J. Kerouac

This man single handedly changed the way we look at an entire generation of people. Writing in the 1940′s and 1950′s, Kerouac defined a generation of “beatniks,” although he never actually used that word, it was pressed upon him by agents/publishers/men in power, etc. The point is, he represented the thousands of free spirited men and women around America who were interested in a “new wave” of life, a sense of freedom on the open American road, and an enlightened vision of the West Coast…

Jack Kerouac

“I’m not a beatnik, I’m a catholic.”–Jack Kerouac

Robert Graham Blue Spiritual Cufflinks

With Ginsberg and Neal Cassidy on his side, Kerouac unwittingly turned into a star icon. They practiced Buddhism together, wondered about the expansive void of the universe, nothingness, meditation, art and life. They fed each other poetry and lines, raging in the nights together, until it was all over.

“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” —Jack Kerouac, “On The Road, The Original Scrolls”

Neil Cassidy and Jack Kerouac

It was all about jazz music, bumping, going hungry, eating too much, drinking until you pass out, wearing the same clothes for days and not caring, hiking mountains, bumming rides, buying a ticket to nowhere, living in a dream, carrying a notebook with torn out pages, building fires, visiting ladies, ladies, a cigarette and pen.

Jack Kerouac

With his quiet meditation, slicked backed hair, and dreams of becoming a real live Buddha, Kerouac wrote one of the most influential novels in American history: On The Road.

Route 66 Cufflinks

He wrote the original manuscript on one long scroll, which he placed in his typewriter, and just kept writing. I believe this added to his stream of consciousness style and breathless sentences. The new edition of On The Road, The Original Scroll, is on sale at almost any bookstore around the country.

Jack Kerouac at his typewriter

Even Ginsberg had better days in his youth. He was once a stylish looking man, before the fame, ultra hippie-LSD induced figure took over. Allen Ginsberg was a close companion of Kerouac’s, and probably even more prolific in the literary world. Here he is with Bob Dylan:

Bob Dylan and Allen Ginsberg

His numerous books of poetry include “Howl,” “Reality Sandwiches,” and others. His full collection of poetry can be purchased: Collected Poems of Allen Ginsberg, 1947-1997. Ginsberg revered Walt Whitman as a poet and mirrored his free verse style; coincidentally, Ginsberg was also a homosexual like Walt Whitman.

Peter Orlovsky and Allen Ginsberg on the rue St.-Andre-des-Arts. December 1975. c. Harold Chapman.

Fishing Hat Cufflinks

Ginsberg was an American poet who vigorously opposed militarism, materialism, and sexual repression.  In the 1950s, Ginsberg was a leading figure of the Beat Generation, an anarchic group of young men and women who joined poetry, song, sex, wine and illicit drugs with passionate political ideas that championed personal freedoms. Ginsberg was also a practicing Buddhist and was seriously involved with Krishna-ism, devoting money and time to the causes of the Hare Krishnas. This is partially due to his friendship with A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the Hare Krishna movement in the Western world:

Ashoka Pillar Cufflinks India

Ginsberg’s epic poem “Howl“, in which he celebrates his fellow “angel-headed hipsters” and excoriates what he saw as the destructive forces of capitalism and conformity in the United States, is one of the classic poems of the Beat Generation.

Allen Ginsberg

The Opening of “Howl”:

I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by
madness, starving hysterical naked,
dragging themselves through the negro streets at dawn
looking for an angry fix…

“Put on your yamaka, here comes Hanukkah…”

Everyone has their own way of celebrating the holidays. Some people sing ancient hymns over a plastic baby Jesus in a Nativity scene, some people light a Menorah and possibly wish they had a tree in their living room, others celebrate Kwanzaa (we’ll explain Kwanzaa later in case you don’t know about it…), and the rest just over decorate their living spaces with fat old men in red suits and overstuffed snowmen. Of course we’re just poking a little fun at age old traditions, because you have to add some levity in the world. So whichever is your way, Merry Christmas, Shalom or Happy Chanukahm , and Happy Kwanzaa!

For all you Gentiles out there who need an explanation of what Hanukka is, here ya go: Also known as the Festival of Lights is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the re-dedication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE, Hanukkah is observed for eight nights, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar.

Israel 10-Agorot Menorah Cufflinks

Of course there is more to it, but if you’re  interested, go ahead and research it. Here are some Ramla Stamp Cufflinks that would make a perfect gift for your Jewish cousin, neighbor, Rabbi, or any other non-gentile companion:

Ramla Stamp Cufflink (Israel)

Or these Israeli Big Menorah Coin Cufflinks, which are absolutely stunning for the holidays:

Israeli Big Menorah Hand Painted Coin Cufflinks ($139)

Now, on to Kwanzaa: Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration held in the United States honoring universal African Heritage and culture, marked by participants lighting a kinara (candle holder). It is observed from December 26 to January 1 every year. Kwanzaa consists of seven days of celebration, featuring activities such as candle-lighting and libations, and culminating in a feast and gift giving.

Hand Painted South Africa Coin Cufflinks

Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa in 1966 as the first specifically African American holiday. Karenga said his goal was to “give Blacks an alternative to the existing holiday and give Blacks an opportunity to celebrate themselves and history, rather than simply imitate the practice of the dominant society.”

Although there is no religious basis in Kwanzaa, its purpose was meant to steer off from the traditional “dominant” norms, to celebrate culture and history.

Banded African Jade Cufflinks

And now on to Christmas: Observed on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus, the central figure of Christianity. Although nominally a Christian holiday, Christmas is also widely celebrated by many non-Christians, and many of its popular celebratory customs have pre-christian or secular themes and origins. Popular modern customs of the holiday include gift-giving, music, an exchange of greeting cards, church celebrations, a special meal, and the display of various decorations; including Christmas trees, lights, garlands, mistletoe, nativity scenes, and holly.

Personalized Merry Christmas Ornaments ($19.99)

In addition, several similar mythological figures, known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas and Santa Claus among other names, are associated with bringing gifts to children during the Christmas season.

Santa Claus has been the topic of many popular songs, including this lovely tune by Eartha Kitt:

For Christmas this year,  we offer personalized gifts, such as this Paisley Praise Cross, just under $25:

Personalized Paisley Praise Cross

The practice of putting up special decorations at Christmas has a long history. From pre-Christian times, people in the Roman Empire brought branches from evergreen plants indoors in the winter. Decorating with greenery was also part of Jewish tradition : “Now on the first day you shall take for yourselves the foliage of beautiful trees, palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. ” (Leviticus 23:40)

Enamel Christmas Tree Cufflinks

Stay tuned for more Holiday extravaganza talk! Peace, love, and happiness.

Cyber Monday was coined about five years ago, to signify the largest online shopping day after Black Friday. In late November 2005, the New York Times reported that “The name Cyber Monday grew out of the observation that millions of otherwise productive working Americans, fresh off a Thanksgiving weekend of window shopping, were returning to high-speed Internet connections at work Monday and buying what they liked.” So to show our support of CYBER MONDAY, we are offering 25% off all orders $100 and up!! Type in “MONDAY” at the checkout. Discount ends at 12am 11.29.10. Yes, yes, thank us later… 

And NOW we present you with some great deals and stylish gifts for the whole family!

1. Gifts For Dad (or a special man in your life)

Izod Shirt, Striped Pinpoint Oxford, $19.95, from macys.com

Izod Shirt for men, $19.95, from macys.com

Sport Cufflinks:

Yankees Limited Edition Cufflinks, $52

Stafford® Everyday Flat Front Pant, $24.99, JCPenney.com

For the humorous ladies man, give him these Drinking Hand Cufflinks:

Drinking Hand Cufflinks, designed by Sonia Spenser

And to add some classic accessories, these Robert Graham Green Painted Wheat Penny Cufflinks will look great on any cuff:

Robert Graham Green Painted Wheat Penny Cufflinks, $167

And for the man always on the go and in a hurry, we love this elegant, black dial watch from Citizen:

Citizen Mens Eco-Drive Dress Watch with Black Dial and Leather Band, $123, Sears.com

2. Gifts For Mom (or a special lady in your life)

This sleek peacoat comes in a variety of colors, ranging from red, yellow, and olive green. St. John’s Bay® Cashmere Blend Classic Peacoat from JCPenney.com:

St. John's Bay® Cashmere Blend Classic Peacoat, $49-59, JCPenney.com

The layered look is in, and so is saving money. These east 5th sweaters from JCPenney.com are only $9.88:

east 5th® Layered Look Sweater-Petite Only, $9.88, from JCPenney.com

And for the lady in action who loves a little bling, this Citizen Watch is absolutely stunning and seriously on sale:

Citizen Ladies Eco Drive Swarovski Crystal Watch w/Mother-of-Pearl Dial and ST Band, $187, from Sears.com

3. Brother/Sister

This year, give the kids what they want: video games. For that ornery brother of yours, get him a classic throw-back for the wii:

Nintendo® Wii™ Sonic Unleashed, Sale $18.99, from JCPenney.com

Nintendo® Wii™ Sonic Unleashed, Sale $18.99, from JCPenney.com

And for his Sunday’s best, add a little fun and color to his shirt sleeves, with these

Yellow Moto GP Racing Bike Cufflinks, $49.95

And for your sweet little dancing sister (or niece, granddaughter, etc), get her a game that will get her moving: Dance Sensation!

Nintendo® Wii™ Dance Sensation, $18.99, JCPenney.com

Personalised Children’s Art Cufflinks, by Sonia Spenser

4. Gifts for Grandma and Grandpa

Don’t be fooled by this hot lady sporting these Ambrielle Flannel Pajamas. Flannel Pj’s are for just about everyone, but especially for grandma. She will appreciate the comfort and the fact that you only spent $12.88:

Ambrielle® Flannel Pajamas, $12.88, JCPenney.com

And for that hip, nostalgic Grandma, give her these James Dean Cufflinks to remind her of better days. Maybe she can wear them will her over-sized blazers from the 80′s:

James Dean Cufflinks, $75

And for the man who never likes to stop and ask for directions, this Garmin nuvi 265W 4.3″ Portable Bluetooth GPS is on sale for only $99 at walmart.com:

Garmin nuvi 265W 4.3" Portable Bluetooth GPS, $99, walmart.com

For the Papa who is always fixing stuff, even when “it ain’t broke,” give him these Handy Man Cufflinks:

Handy Man Cufflinks

And for the grandfather who is a proud veteran, these Veteran Stamp Cufflinks are the perfect gift:

Veteran Stamp Cufflinks, $75

And every Pa-Pa loves comfort too, especially while he’s reading the Sunday paper and eating pancakes. These Route 66 Men’s Jordan Trapper Moc Slipper in Grey are only $9.99 at sears.com:

Route 66 Men's Jordan Trapper Moc Slipper in Grey, $9.99, sears.com

So don’t forget folks, Cyber Monday only comes once a year, so grab the deals while they’re here. Also remember we at Cufflinksman.com are offering 25% off all orders $100 and up!! Type in “MONDAY” at the checkout. Discount ends at 12am 11.29.10.

Stay tuned kids. Keep the economy going, keep shopping..

Thanksgiving is only a day away, so if you need some extra help in the kitchen for ideas on how to impress your guests (or simply indulge yourself), here are some of our holiday favorites:

1. Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider

Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider

Ingredients

• 2 quarts apple cider
• 6 cups cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

Waldorf Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 or 4 granny apples, unpeeled, cut from the core, and chopped into bite size pieces (about 3 cups)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 2/3 cup chopped celery
• 1/3 cup walnuts (optional)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/3 cup of marshmellows

Cut up 3 or 4 of the apples, until you get about 2-1/2 or 3 cups of chopped apples. Sprinkle the lemon juice over the apples. The acid in the lemon juice prevents the apples from turning brown. The raisins will taste best if you plump them first. Do this by measuring them into a cereal bowl and adding enough warm tap water to cover them completely. Allow them to sit for a few minutes, absorbing the water, and softening up. Drain them very well when you need them.  Chop up the celery, it should take about 2 stalks or so. Add walnuts. Mix everything together in a medium sized bowl with the mayonnaise and sugar, coating all of the ingredients with the mayonnaise. It is now ready to serve, or you can chill it overnight and serve it tomorrow instead. This recipe serves 6.

Big Apple Cufflinks, Designed by Sonia Spenser

3. Sugar Coated Pecans

Sugar Coated Pecans

Ingredients

• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 pound pecan halves
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Grease one baking sheet.
2. In a mixing bowl, whip together the egg white and water until frothy. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add pecans to egg whites, stir to coat the nuts evenly. Remove the nuts, and toss them in the sugar mixture until coated. Spread the nuts out on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake at 250 degrees F (120 degrees C) for 1 hour. Stir every 15 minutes.

*Recipe from allrecipes.com*

4. Hot Crab Dip

Hot Crab Dip, Recipe from Allrecipes.com

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 (6 ounce) cans crabmeat
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• paprika, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Cheddar cheese, crabmeat, lemon juice, hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Transfer to a shallow 9×13 inch baking dish. Garnish with paprika.
3. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

*Recipe from allrecipes.com*

Hand-Painted Crab Cufflinks

5. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole, Recipe by allrecipes.com

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans

  Designer “Potato of Doom” Cufflinks, by Sonia Spenser

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, salt, 1/3 cup butter and vanilla. Mix together and pour into a greased 13×9 inch baking dish.
2. To prepare the topping, combine in a separate bowl the brown sugar, flour, 1/3 cup melted butter and pecans. Mix together and crumble over sweet potato mixture. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 35 to 45 minutes.

1. Style Icon Number 1: Tom Waits

Known for his raspy, deep voice, which has been described by critic Daniel Durchholz as sounding “like it was soaked in a vat of bourbon, left hanging in the smokehouse for a few months, and then taken outside and run over with a car,” Tom Waits is an iconic singer, actor, and composer. He always plays these seedy, shady characters in films such as “Down By Law” and Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” but is also known for his immense cult following:

Tom Waits, Photo by Henry Dlitz

Tom has been a trend setter for years, especially for Brooklyn Hipsters, with his cigarettes, whiskey, old beaten hats, and worn suit jackets. He is experimental in both his music and his fashion choices. Waits recorded Small Change (1976), which is more lyrically cynical and pessimistic than his previous albums, l with many songs such as “The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) (An Evening With Pete King)” and “Bad Liver and a Broken Heart (In Lowell)”.

Tom Waits, Photo by Adrian Boot

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In response to the heavy drinking that ensued while making the album Small Change, Waits said that he “tried to resolve a few things as far as this cocktail lounge, maudlin, crying-in-your-beer image that I have. There ain’t nothin’ funny about a drunk [...] I was really starting to believe that there was something amusing and wonderfully American about being a drunk. I ended up telling myself to cut that shit out.”

Tom Waits, Photo by Danny Clinch

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Style Icon Number 2: Al Pachino

Al is best known for his horrifying role in Scarface as Tony Montana and Micheal Corleone in The Godfather Trilogy. He showed a much softer side in Frankie and Johnny, alongside his former co-star in Scarface, the beautiful Michelle Pfeiffer. Throughout the years, we’ve seen Pacino evolve as an actor, taking on the best of roles and giving it his all. Trained as a Method Actor, under the guidance of the famed Lee Strasberg, Pacino developed a passionate intensity in just about every role he played.

Photo of a younger Al Pacino

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A native New Yorker, Pacino dropped out of school at 17, and took on a series of mundane jobs in order to pay for his acting classes. At the Actor’s Studio, Pacino studied method acting, which is a phrase that loosely refers to a family of techniques by which actors try to create in themselves the thoughts and emotions of their characters in an effort to develop lifelike performances.

Al Pacino, playing Tony Montana, in Scarface

Brown Cigar Cufflinks

Director Francis Ford Coppola took a risk in casting the relatively unknown Pacino in The Godfather, yet Pacino’s acting earned him an Academy Award Nomination, which he boycotted because of his anger at being labeled a “Supporting Actor.”

Al Pachino (Michael Corleone)

So “Say hello to my little friend…” with these Pistol Cufflinks:

Pistol Cufflinks

Throughout all of his films, the man has a certain simple, yet poignant style that we all secretly admire. Women love him and men want to be him. He has played those dominant character types that men around the world wanted to imitate, and they loyally re-played their favorite scenes on VCRs at home, reenacting many famous lines and scenes.

Michael Corleone, and his transformation

The fascination with the mafia/mob world had become exponential after Pacino’s performances. He brought the underworld and grime of Mafia life out in the open, added a touch of sophistication and swagger; namely he glamorized the life of a mobster- something no one else could do.

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Al Pacino in NYC (1992) Photograph by Herb Ritts

Stay tuned folks for more icons..

Weekly Trend, Numero Uno:

Get Creative with layering- in this cold, it’s okay to mix a collared shirt, sweat shirt, and a suit jacket, with an overcoat. The key is not to add too much bulk, so make sure your sweat shirt and jacket are fairly thin and not heavily insulated. Jason Sudeikis does a nice job with his layering and the green sneakers add a contrasting pop of color:

Jason Sudeikis in NYC

To amp up this layered look, adding some button covers  could completely transform your old winter coat this season. Try these Celtic Cross Button Covers:

Celtic Cross Buttons

Weekly Trend Numero Dos:

Leather Jackets- the key with the leather jacket is it should be fairly form fitting and not too bulky. We’re not especially fond of the trench coat leathers (think Blade here….and no), but any other style will work. Try to find a jacket with really soft and/or aged leather, to ensure quality. (*Tip: scratch the leather with your finger so it makes a small mark, then lick your finger and smooth out the mark. If the scratch disappears, then it’s good leather…)

IIaria Urbinati and Giovanni Ribisi at the GQ Style Manual Celebration in LA

And with this rocker look, add a hard edge to your shirt cuffs with these Nut and Bolt Cufflinks:

Nut and Bolt Cufflinks

Trend Numero Tres:

Toggled, Hooded, heavy-weight duffel coats- they are a great transition for the recent college graduate to professional working man. And they will definitely keep you warm and stylish this winter. Eric Decker, who plays for the Denver Broncos, was recently featured in GQ Magazine wearing a variety of these trendy coats:

Eric Decker, wearing a coat by Nautica ($298), Rugby Shirt ($125), and Boat Shoes by Sperry Top-Sider

Denver Bronco Cufflinks

And with these toggle coats and rugby shirts, these English Rugby Cufflinks are another great winter accessory:

English Rugby Cufflinks

Stay Tuned Folks.

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Bob Dylan has been a style icon since, well, the day he was born. He is the epitome of an artist, constantly evolving in his musical style, and never looking back. He is known for his lyrical, poignant poetry, paintings, and drawings as well as his music. His autobiography, “The Chronicles,” has sold millions, and spent 19 long weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list for non-fiction.

Bob Dylan’s famous hits, like Tangled up in Blue, Blowin’ in the Wind, Tamborine Man, Just Like a Women, Don’t Think Twice, I’m not There, A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall, and so, so many more, have made their way into our lives over the years, and we have adapted them as a part of our “life soundtracks.”

Vintage Jukebox Cufflinks

Most of us have poignant memories attached to these tunes, replay them over on our ipods,  and every time we listen we find something new, something different, something that reminds of us of so many yesterdays. In short, his music has a power that is continuous, ephemeral, and yet lasting. It lingers in our ears, weighs over us like a rolling stone, all while the times are a-changing.

Guitar Cufflinks

And when he switched over to the electric guitar, it caused a big scandal. People frantically asking, or booing, “Is he forgetting his roots? Is he leaving folk music behind? Is he caving in for corporate America?” No, the music only evolved and so did the man.

Red Guitar Cufflinks

Influenced by the poetry of the Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, Bob’s writings focused on oppression, the American dream, war, love, despair, protest, and spirituality. The Pulitzer Prize jury in 2008 awarded him a special citation for what they called his profound impact on popular music and American culture, “marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary poetic power.” Frankly, the man is a musical force and poetic genius.

Peace Cufflinks

He is one of the only true voices we’ve had to represent the true American spirit. He fought through music, cried through music, celebrated through music, lived through music; all this accumulating to an giant American force, using only that strange voice of his, raspy and electrifying, and a guitar, piano, and/or harmonica.

Silver Microphone Cufflinks

Now Mr. Dylan, with all his revolutionary success, concentrates on his own personal spiritual journey, and occasionally makes trips to his son’s school to play some guitar and sing for the children. They all stare and wonder who the hell this strange, rough looking man is in their perfect classroom, banging out chords and belting out lullabys…asking their teachers afterward, “Who is that guy?” If they only knew…