Let’s face it: It’s all about the accessories. There’s nothing so mundane or everyday that cannot be dressed up with a little glamour, a little humor or even just a little color. And what could be more everyday than morning coffee?

If you’re an espresso drinker like me, this is a no-brainer. Illy not only makes some of the best brew, but also the cutest and most collectible cups on the market. I’m a big fan of the Rufus Willis collection, wryly playing on traditional Delft designs by depicting gritty, industrial landscapes in the blue background. Illy commissions many famous artists to design cups, like Jeff Koons. Or, if you’re looking for something a little edgier, check out these stainless steel sippers.

Granted, steel coffee cups do sound a little perilous on the lips. We’re all about form as well as function, and ThisNexters have brought up a bevy of beverage holders designed to keep your fingers cool and your coffee hot. The Bodum Canteen Cup comes with or without a mug handle; the double-wall construction protects your digits either way. The Eva Solo thermal cup does much the same, only in a more designerly way.

If you’ve ever been to New York or even watched Seinfeld, you’ve seen those takeaway coffee cups with friezework and a chipper “We are happy to serve you” in faux Greek lettering. Now you can bestow this piece of New York cultural history on someone in ceramic cup or mug form. After all, who needs disposable cups?

Well, some people do, we suppose, so in a pinch there are compostable cups made from corn plastic. They biodegrade, reducing the guilt of waste. Still, it pays to be eco-minded, as this global warming mug illustrates. When you add hot liquid, the sea on the map rises, and coastlines and islands disappear.

Of course, coffee doesn’t need to be taken so seriously all the time. Give the gift of a morning chuckle with the “Drink Coffee, Do Stupid Things Faster” mug.

Sweeten the pot with stylish sugars, like compressed sugar handles that convey your cup to your lips … at least until you stir them in. And sugar hearts will remind your sweetie of you with every sweet sip.

Got the jitters to go shopping? Check out my list of coffee cups and accessories on ThisNext for more.