Best of the Web 2011

This matchless site has sensational choices from hard-to-come-by (Cire Trudon and Carrière Frères) to crowd-pleasers (Diptyque and Seda France). There’s even a well-stocked men’s section with smoky musk, amber, and absinthe scents. Reader perks! 10% off select items and free shipping and free gift wrap on orders of $85 or more. Code: instyle11

Expect a glut of delectable—and gorgeously packaged—specialty ingredients (dandelion honey, quince paste, elderflower syrup), plus boutique wines that’ll give you instant gourmet cred. (Don’t miss hostess gifts, like Kauniste linens from Finland.) Be sure to sign up for sale alerts. Reader perk! 25% off.Code: instyle25

For the person who is a kid at heart, or the party that needs a bit of helium oomph, seek out oversize balloon sculptures festooned with silk ribbons and hand-cut paper, all made to order in the jazzy colors of your choice. Reader perk! Free shipping on orders of $125 or more. Code: instyle

Find over 200 handmade, artisanal varieties from around the world, with all the accoutrements—olives, charcuterie, knives, wood planks—you need to serve up an unparalleled cheese plate. (Baskets and samplers too!)

It’s time to embrace your inner decorating junkie! Click on to the well-organized site of this N.Y.C. shop for delicate horn finger bowls, glossy ceramic bud vases in poppy hues, and opalescent glassware (with prices start- ing around $20). Then settle in once you receive your goods and toast your excellent design taste!

For every bar of this adorably packaged eco- friendly soap sold, another one is donated to help an impoverished child in Haiti ward off deadly infections that can often be stopped by simple hygiene. Soap packs start at $16. The first donated bars will be sent to the island early next year. Orange Blossom soap, $16/2 bars; handinhandsoap.com.

This Seattle-based shop is a treasure trove of rare seasonings from faraway lands, all ground to order to ensure freshness. We’re also hooked on its recipe section for its inspiration. Tikka Masala, anyone? Reader perk! 15% off. Code: instyle15