We love green and red candles and blue and silver ribbons as much any other happy holiday-lover, but sometimes it's nice to spruce up the traditional holiday decor with something fresh and different. We've collected our favorite funky picks for the holidays — great to give, and even better to receive.
We're in love with the new holiday tabletop items from Starbucks, available November 9 at select locations. (Visit Starbucks.com for information.) The bright, fun colors hit that elusive combination of festive and holiday-neutral — so they're appropriate for giving, no matter what your family and friends celebrate. And unlike that giant inflatable snowman in the neighbor's yard, these mugs can be kept in use long after the holidays are over. Our favorite detail: The embossed pattern on each plate fits neatly into a matching inverted design on the bottom of the cup. So whether you fill your mug with coffee, candy or hot cocoa, it won't go sliding off your saucer. One clutz-proof cup of warm apple cider, coming right up.