There’s no use pretending that the time for this annual gift guide snuck up on me once again. I’ve been ignoring the reality for weeks, and now that it’s December 19 I’m scrambling to deliver these gift ideas to your inbox. Hopefully, the procrastinators among you will be relieved to find something here in the CWE for everyone on your list.
Big Muddy Adventures Guide Shop, 4662 Washington (behind Bowood Farms)
While it’s not exactly what you might expect to see on my list in wintertime, why not go huge for the outdoorsman/woman on your list and consider a fiberglass canoe. The CWE’s Big Muddy Adventures is the only outfitter in the U.S. to carry Clipper canoes, which are made in Canada. There are 11 different designs and sizes available, ranging in price from $1300 to $3000. Check out the website for more information, or just stop by to chat with the staff. All are experienced river guides who can offer great advice.
As I looked around for other ideas at Big Muddy, I realized that the items below aren’t necessarily just for camping. Some of these suggestions may come in handy, given all the upheaval caused by both the pandemic and the weather. Perhaps a portable solar shower would qualify as more practical these days (see below), and could be stacked next to that first aid kit we’re supposed to have ready to go.
Big Muddy Adventures Guide Shop, 4662 Olive St., Weds. through Mon. 9 to 5.
Another new shop in the CWE, Pass the Past Vintage Goods, 4744 McPherson, stocks a well-curated selection of Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency Style decor and vintage (40’s to 90’s) clothing for men and women in pristine condition.
According to co-owners Erica and Eugene Tsinerman, who have been in the fashion business for years, during times of societal turmoil there is a revival of classic American style. People search out interesting patterns and colors, classic striped shirts, cardigans, plaids from labels such as Pendleton and Woolrich.
Here are just a few of the many items that caught my eye:
From left, Pendleton and Sag Harbor women’s blazers, $50. Right, Men’s Zero King hunting jacket, $100.
From left, a Paul Levy coat, $100, and a Hot pink wool coat from Montaldo’s, $325. Years ago, Montaldo’s and Saks 5th Avenue were mainstays on Maryland Avenue.
Both a shearling coat, $350, and a cashmere coat, $200, were eye catchers.
Pass the Past, 4744 McPherson, Thurs-Sun. 12 to 4 p.m., on Instagram & Facebook.
Next door at The Silver Lady you’ll find a beautiful selection of sterling silver jewelry including
a stunning one-of-a-kind necklace created by a Mexican artist, $169.
A classic 18” ball necklace, $189.
and a lovely handmade moon and stars sterling silver bracelet, $292.
The Silver Lady, 4736 McPherson, 12-5 pm everyday ‘til Christmas.
At The Vino Gallery, 4701 McPherson
From left, Borsao, a Spanish Rose, $16.50; Blue Rock “Baby Blue” Sonoma 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, $30; Jed Steele’s Shooting Star Mendocino County Chardonnay 2019, $16.50; 2018 Saint Hilaire Sparkling Wine, $17; and In Sheep’s Clothing, 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dundee, Oregon, $24.
The Vino Gallery, (314) 932-5665, Mon. – Fri. 3 to 11, Sat. 1 to 11, Sun. 11 to 10. Special opening on Christmas Day at 6 p.m.
At Centro Modern Furnishings, 4727 McPherson
Eames “Hang It All” by Herman Miller in black, as shown, $245; black with walnut knobs, $295; and a new Eames Pride Hang It All (not shown) with white frame and 14 multi-colored knobs, $295.
“Elevated” aluminum bowls from Brooklyn-based Fort Standard have food safe powder coated finishes for every day use. The larger shapes can be used for centerpieces, $92 to $150. The large round white bowl is $230.
Back by popular demand are Conway Electric cast iron and aluminum outlets with 6’ or 12’ cotton-covered cords. They now include phone chargers, $69 to $149.
Centro Modern Furnishings, 4727 McPherson, (314) 454-0111, Mon. – Sat. 10 to 6.
Next up: Part II Holiday Gift Guide