Sale Alert: UO $5 Sale

It only happens a few times a year but, Urban Outfitters is having their big $5 sale. You can save yourself the trouble of having to deal with all the hipsters and shop it online. Here are a just a FEW of my picks. Remember sizing and selection are already limited so if you see something you like grab it now.

UO $5 Sale by She Spys The Buys

Smooth Sailing

While we are talking about swim season here's a tip on how to save money (and the environment) by making your own shaving cream!

Ingredients:

1/2 teaspoon sunflower oil
1/4 cup unscented glycerin soap
Double broiler
A cup or mug

In your double boiler, melt chunks of the glycerin soap. Stir in the sunflower oil. Move the mixture into a mug as soon as all of the glycerin chunks are melted. The “cream” will set quickly. When you’re ready to shave, simply work water against the soap until a lather builds and apply.

Not My Favorite Thing

Swimsuit season is upon us and I could not be more unhappy... I LOVE the warm weather but, there is something about putting on next to nothing and walking around that makes me less than happy. Maybe it's that fact that it's socially unacceptable to wear such little clothes in most other day to day activities so I'm not used to it? I'll keep working on the reason but, I think I found a great swimsuit option which makes me much less unhappy about the whole prospect. The ShapeFX All-Over Control (because that's what I need) Bandeau Suit.


It has a power-mesh lining controls all over, the shirred overlay slims and defines torso, and the sweetheart neckline emphasizes bust! I'm not a giant fan of the color but, peridot is my birthstone.... If you are going to go for it I recommend sizing appropriately or up because the power-mesh lining is no joke. I bought a dress from them that was on the smaller side of things and I swear I thought I was going to suffocate. Right now this (and most other) suits on the site are less expensive then they would normally be because they are doing a preseason sale so if you are interested I would pick it up. Take the plunge...

Hair Saver

I have pretty difficult hair to deal with... I know everyone says that but, seriously it is. I have relatively thick hair which used to be down to my mid back and very curly but, had recently been cropped short to my chin and straightened. Either way it is somewhat dry and frizzy and for the better portion of my life I have tried product after product to make it more soft, shiny, and generally manageable. For a while it was Sebastian Laminates Drops and Detangling Milk but, those became unavailable in stores and I was again stuck searching for a way to deal with my hair.

The end of my quest came to me as a free sample with an order from Sephora: Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment! My hair had been a bit brittle since the Keratin and no matter what I put in it vaguely resembled straw so when I read that I could use this product as an overnight deep conditioning treatment I gave it a whirl and I was hooked!! My hair went from brittle and dry to shiny, soft, and smooth and we've been together ever since. You can also use Ojon as a leave in conditioner and to tame loose fly aways. I will warn you it has an odd smell like chocolate and something else weird but, you won't notice it once it's in your hair.

I recommend if you're going to try it out get the smaller size because you really don't need much to achieve the kind of amazing results I'm talking about. I picked it up from Sephora about a year ago and am still using the same one. So on top of being effective and amazing it's economical too! If you're feeling really adventurous you can try their full line of products. I have been toying the idea of the dry shampoo. If I pick it up I will let you know how it turns out...

Zac Posen for Target Pop-Up Shop

Che Target has everything a girl could want right now including a new capsule collection with Zac Posen launching nationwide on April 25th. Luckily for the people living in NYC they will have 24 hours to shop the collection 10 days early (April 15th @ 11pm - April 16th @ 11pm) at a pop up shop located at 481 8th Avenue (at 34th Street) The whole 24 hours thing is definately a first... The event will channel the ambiance of a party, with the temporary shop offering the entire collection not just certain pieces like past shops. I know that certain sizes will sell out quickly, so if you see something you want in the lookbook stay up late or get up early to indulge!

Capsule Collection: Eugenia Kim for Target

We have talked about my love of Eugenia Kim (and hats in general) before. I am so excited about her collection for Target which will hit stores April 18th (the same day as Cynthia Vincent) and start at around $16.99! That is a drop in the bucket compared to her full price line and even the one she did with Urban Outfitter. For a look at the whole collection click here...

Clearance Find

When I am bored I love to peruse the clearance sections at my fav stores online. If you have been perusing past entries or checking out 260 Days, No Repeats you would almost instantly realize that one of them is Target! While checking out the clearance dress section I came across this one which I have instantly fallen in love with both for it's style and it's price. It's definitely not summery but, for $13.98 I wouldn't mind sticking it into my closet until next year's chilly seasons!

Sneak Peek: Foley & Corrina Handbags 2010

When I got a glimpse of the Fall 2010 collection I could not help but, be drawn twoards this bag. It still has the classic shape of the mid city tote but, the attitude of a total bad %&^. A defintine want when the season comes to pass but, for now I am enjoying this gorgeous warm weather!

To You & Yours...

Capsule Collection: Cynthia Vincent for Target

Since the weather is getting warmer I'm super excited to bust all my strappy warm weather shoes out from hiding and celebrate the season change! In my opinion this is the perfect time for the new Cynthia Vincent for Target capsule collection. Among her many accolades, Cynthia Vincent is the designer behind one of last summer's "it" shoe, the towering, zip-front Luella wedge sandal. It has staying power for sure because the Luella is destined to be super hot this summer, too, for it's leg-lengthening, wear-with-everything brilliance. For those of us who can't drop $400 or more on the Luella, we'll be able to get our hands on Target's version for just $29.99 come April 18th. For a look at the whole collection click here.

260 Days, No Repeats

I have started a second blog called 260 Days, No Repeats. Don't worry I'm not abandoing you! I will still be posting the deals and steals that I find but, will also be talking about something slightly more practical. Because I have a pretty ridiculous amount of clothes, shoes, and accessories and I really need to put them all to good use. My goal with this is not to show off how much clothes I have or even that I can put a stylish outfit together. It is simply to show myself and others that you can make great things with what you already have not just "make-do" You don't have to go to the store and buy a whole new outfit for an event (even though that is fun) you might be able to find a dress in your closet with the tags still on it (yes, that has happened to me). And for all those times that you throw up you hands and say, "I have nothing to wear!!" I want to show that you probably do have something you haven't seen all the potential in the things you already own. Another thing that I want to show myself, and I suppose everyone could learn from it, is the use-value of my clothes (ex: basic black ballet flats that cost $12.99 are much more valuable than a prom dress that costs $199.99) I can agree that there are basic pieces that should be of higher quality because you will wear them more but, the trendy stuff that you could pay a fortune store in designer boutiques is better purchased somewhere like Target because it will be out of style next season.

Please check that and see how my experiment/challenge is going!!!!

In Stores Today: H&M Garden Collection

Just a reminder that The Garden Collection by H&M (the company's first fully-sustainable line) officially launches TODAY in H&M stores nationwide. This is under H&M's first collection made entirely from environmentally adapted materials (including organic cotton, organic linen and recycled polyester), and is made up of 80 items and 10 accessories all under $60. I am definitely tgoing to try to check it our after work. I think these pieces below are my favs. Can we say Easter Sunday with that dress? I think so... If you want to check out more pieces click here for the full look book.

Bad *&^ Bag

Serious hardware has been a major trend and I'm loving the Mary Kate Studded Messenger Bag, I came across that has TONS of it. It's perfect for both the past fall/winter and upcoming spring/summer seasons, heartily decked out with a bevy of hardware and in the latest style, messenger! What else is great about it? Well... it's huge, it zips closed, it's not too pricey for all the wear you'll get out of it and it doesn't weigh a ton even with all that hardcore hardware. Right now thank to the ladies at Fashion Pulse Daily everything (including this fab bag) on the site is 20% off with the code PULSE20 but it expires in a week (3/29/10 to be exact) so just do it!

Success!!

This weekend I went shopping with a friend to find her the perfect dress for a night out in NYC you know: drinks, dinner at Mesa Grill, dancing after... the whole nine. We went from store to store unable to find anything that would suit the bill when really we should have just hit up one of our favorite places to shop, Nordstrom Rack, in the first place.

While she found a bunch of awesome and budget dress possibilities I wandered around looking for something for myself and came across a whole bunch of racks with trouser jeans!! I know, I couldn't believe it either. While the brand (Not Your Daughter's Jeans) was not what I had originally envisioned they are a great wash, decent fit (although a higher rise than I'm used to) and almost $70.00 off the original retail!!! How could I turn that down especially when my boyfriend was footing the bill?

If you are searching for trouser jeans and are not near the Nordstrom Rack in White Plains (where there are still tons of awesome jeans) like I was you can check out an alternative that I was seriously considering but, had not a chance to try on. These Trouser Dark Wash Jeans from Banana Republic are also a good fit but, unfortunately carry a hefty price tag. I'm glad I was able to avoid it this time but, since it's what I wanted I probably would have paid it... they are spot on.

Spanx for Men?!?

I love Spanx I mean what woman who doesn’t like seamless shapewear that hides their tummy? The new new Spanx swimwear, is pretty hot so since they are on a roll Spanx has announced they’re coming out with Spanx for Men! What do you think, would your guy try Manx? Be honest! Until we've unraveled that mystery check out the styles they are offering.

Payless, Get More

While flipping through the March issue of Vouge I came across some amazingly fierce Alice and Olivia sandals that I am in love with. Unfourtunately, I have no immediate need for them so I'm hoping against hope that my size will be there when the price on the black ones drops. However, that is unlikely since there are limited quantities available. So, get them while you can but, stay away from the 9.5's...

Cookie Craziness

I was wandering around the grocery store the other day looking for lady fingers to make a homemade tiramisu to no avail! Apparently they only exist in Italian bakeries and I had to settle for coffee soaked madelines but, I digress. While perusing the cookie aisle I came across these crazy designer Animal Crackers. Yes, you read right animal crackers in my soup, monkeys and rabbits... and Lily Pulitzer. Kids grow up so quickly! I wonder what's next...

An Affordable Statement Necklace

I have spent months searching for a statement necklace that won't break the bank and was really hoping that I would find a good deal at some end of winter season sales. Unfortunately, I was wrong... the most desirable pieces were so much so that they were all gone and the pickins' were slim to say the least.

I am delighted to say that all the waiting was not in vain... I found an amazing, totally unique, handmade option for a killer price. This Black Faceted Stone Bib Necklace is available on Etsy for a totally affordable $9.99!! If that isn't right for you Make This Your Own has lots of other affordable options for rings, earrings, headbands, and of course necklaces including this lace bib necklace featured on The Budget Fashionista. All of them are competely worth the price tag, beautful and unique! I can't wait to wear this great piece...

Spluge vs. Budget: Foldable Ballet Flats

After spending all day stomping around the office and all night hitting the bars, clubs, mall (whatever) in your killer heels your feet could use a break. What's a girl to do? Enter the foldable ballet flat: small enough to fit in your purse, desk, or car, comfortable enough to wear after you've been beating up your feet, and chic enough that it won't matter either way. There many different options so, which one is best (aka cheapest)?

The one on the left is by Sue London (whose claim to fame was foldable ballet flats) retailing at about $168.00 a pair or more depending on where you buy them. The ones on the left are called CitySlips and retail for $24.95 a pair. Both come with a small carrying case so you can tuck them away and keep your purse, desk, or car clean. I can hear your feet (and wallet) breathing a sigh of relief, your welcome!

You've Got This - Trends Spring 2010

Here are 20 things you can rock out for spring that you probably have in your closet already if you had jumped on the trend bandwagon when they first arose. I'll admit I didn't so there are some gaps but, making it work with what I have sounds great to me.

1. Statement Necklace - One trend I love is the statement necklace. Ubiquitous for the past few seasons, it's the quickest way to make your outfit pop.

2. Boyfriend Blazer - Last season's must-buy, the boyfriend blazer, still looks fresh layered over dresses and skirts, or paired with jeans and shorts.

3. Belts - Thick or thin, belts continue their run as an important accessory, instantly transforming virtually anything in your wardrobe. Wear yours to cinch cardigans, jackets, t-shirts, blouses, dresses and more.

4. Florals - A top trend for more than 4 years in a row florals for spring always look fresh.

5. Ruffles - Another trend that has been hot for several seasons, there's no need to put away your ruffled pieces just yet.

6. Trench Coat - The one piece on every Top 10 list year after year is the classic trench. Hopefully you've gotten the hint and have at least one in your closet, bonus points if it's in a bright color. Don't own a trench? Get one - now.

7. Bangles - Cuffs may be the big trend for wrists this season, but it's still chic to pile on your chunky bangles.

8. Grecian or Gladiator Flats - For the third year in a row, Grecian flat sandals are a summer footwear favorite.

9. Hobo Bag - You likely have a slouchy bag in your closet from seasons past and, thankfully, it's still in style.

10. Cargo Pants - A staple of your casual wardrobe for several years, the military inspired pant looks fresh again this season. Wear yours with pretty printed tops and heels or wedges for a fresh look.

11. Denim Skirt - Whether mini or pencil, it's time to dust off your old denim skirt.

12. Wedges - A mainstay of spring wardrobes for several seasons now, you likely own a pair or two, lucky you!

13. Skinny Jeans & Boyfriend Jeans - Both denim silhouettes are still favorites this season, I own neither but, we all know how hard it is to find the best jean.

14. Turquoise Jewelry - Every few years, turquoise jewelry regains its must-have status proving to be a wise investment for your collection. Odds are you've got at least a piece or two in your jewelry box.

15. Nautical Striped Top - Timeless navy and white or red and white striped tops are still trendy.

16. Scarves - Whether you invested in last summer's lightweight scarf or have an old printed silk scarf in your closet, drape yours over tees, tanks, cardigans and more.

17. Fringed Handbag - The fringed boho accessories that were so hot last spring still look great with denim and florals this season.

18. One-Shouldered Dress - Asymmetrical tops and dresses were hot last spring, were still hot in the fall, and continue to make a statement this spring.

19. Leggings - Love 'em or hate 'em, leggings are still in style.

20. Shorts - Shorter length shorts are one of the hottest trends of the season.

Four Eyes

I've been wearing glasses or contacts since I was in the second grade... paying for years to make my eyes do what they are supposed to. It's total BS if you ask me! Lucky for me I've come across www.warbyparker.com where some genius has cornered the market on affordable (yet attractive) eye wear for the vision impaired. Head the site and browse the collection of 27 not-too-modern styles in a plethora of different colors. You can also upload a photo of yourself, and try out different looks from the collection. All are custom made from cellulose acetate (more durable than plastic) with antireflective, antiscratch polycarbonate prescription lenses. A pair costs just $95, lenses included!!! If you’re not satisfied, return them for a refund. To make it even better they will donate one pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair sold... This sounds too good to be true! Un-Lucky for me it is, I am too ocularly challenged for them to fill my prescription. I guess that what having glasses for 15+ years will do to you, darn you eyes! For those of you who are less challenged head to you eye doctor and get your prescription!

New Color For Spring

We have all been looking for way to save money here and there which might include frosting your own tips (nails not hair). But, with spring coming it is time to consider a polish other than Wicked to make your nails pop in the warmer weather. Enter new Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure. While I wouldn't be brushing it on without a base or top coat this new formula makes do it yourself manicures a breeze.

There are a plethora of colors to pick from but, my choices from the line besides the sheer nude-ish shades are Commander in Chic and Pat on the Black. The latter is fine for riding out the rest of the chilly weather but, not very spring appropriate. While, Commander in Chic is all the rave among fashionistas everywhere for spring 2010.

That's my hand below after a few days with two coats of color plus base and top... barely any chipping to speak of even with my keyboard heavy job.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Who Needs a Man When You Have Coffee?

Sale Alert

Creepiest Gift Ever?

While checking email (and being bombarded by Valentine's Day gift ideas) I came across these absolutely ridiculous boxers.



I'm so curious...

poll by twiigs.com

FYI my answer is Hell No! Because, my boyfriend would think I was crazy. And honestly, who takes V-Day this seriously anyway?

20 Best Vintage Clothing Sites

If you are into shopping vintage then take a look at this listing of the 20 best vintage clothing shops here:

20 Best Vintage Clothing Sites

Vintage is a great way to go if you are looking for something specific or want to channel a certain era. Or, maybe just to match what was popular then with what has come back now. Hello new 80's! What I really appreciate about vintage shops (or even the plain old salvation army) is that you can find some awesome items and keep them out of landfills because some fabrics will live longer than you will. Has anyone seen Wall-E?!? But, I digress...

Those are just some of the pro's but, let's not forget the con's before we go vintage crazy! (and by we I mean me) Sometimes the can be overly pricey depending on the site so, try not to rationalize it... yes, I know you are saving the planet and the dress is fabulous but, you need to buy groceries. Also, try not to buy unless you are sure of your size because the return policy is generally no returns. This is one of my biggest problems with shopping online in general. Hi, my name is "10 in one store, 14 in another"! Again, I digress...

The bottom line is that if you can make it work, this is a great option and now you have a plethora of new stores to chose from!

Capsule Collection: Sonia Rykiel pour H&M

H&M is doing well despite recent bad press. Hennes & Mauritz AB (full professional business name) posted a 20.9 percent increase in net profit in the fourth quarter, with a 15 percent increase in sales in December 2009 versus the previous year, and a 13 percent increase in sales in January 2010.

Retail analysts expect that the jump will allow the company to reinvest in expanding its high-fashion offerings, like its recent collaborations with Jimmy Choo and Sonia Rykiel. On that note, if you loved the Sonia Rykiel lingere collection that H&M carried over the holidays then I'm sure you're counting down the days to the launch of her knitwear collection. Febuary 20 for those of you who are not...

I will admit although the lingere was super cute I was not moved to run and purchase it. This collection, however, is totally different! You can check it out at H&M but, definately watch the video! You'll get a great look at the thinking and collaboration that went into the collection. I learned I have been pronouncing her name wrong (embarrassed face). Also, you'll get a peek at the little yellow dress I am lusting over... hopefully it's not too expensive.

Project Runway: The Video Game?!

I'm just as shocked as you are but, it's true. On March 2 you'll be able to turn your living room into a catwalk, when Atari releases this new fierce video game exclusively for Wii. If you spent all last season watching the contestants thinking "I could do so much better than that," here's your chance. The game puts players in their roles, taking on theme challenges and designing the garments, getting their models dolled up with hair, makeup, and accessories, and eventually taking on the role of catwalk queen as they strut down the runway in their own creations (with the help of the Wii balance board, ick!). Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors, and Heidi Klum are all part of the game as are the top eight contestants from last season (which I did not see boo Bravo). The game also has "an interactive garment studio" and "a feature where the player can take part in high-profile fashion shoots and take on the role of a fashion photographer." If you can't wait you can check out the trailer or pre-order yours now!

Sale Alert

I've been trying to resist the call of this Ann Taylor Loft sale but, I think I'm going to have to check it out after work...

Not Your Average Rain Boots

I remember when I thought rain boots were the coolest...

I think I was still in the single digits of age and I was totally into jumping around in puddles and making a splash. There was a hiatus until later on (as an adult) I will admit I purchased a pair of really snazzy Coach ones but, have not worn them in literally years. What is a girl to do when she's searching for a way to keep her feet dry that does not involve a rubber knee high boot. Enter these totally awesome rain booties! Totally chic... I think they would look fabulous with tights and some skirts or slacks. They are a little pricey so I'm going to be searching for a cheaper alternative but, if this works for you I would totally get them and keep your feet dry in style!

A Tee For Work

I love T-Shirts but, when you work a 9-5 HR gig a flashy t-shirt with an awesome message just doesn't cut it for everyday wear. Enter J Crew's Textured Jersey Ribboned Collier Tee.

This is the perfect work t-shirt because of the intricate beading and sequined design on the front and continued embellishment on the back. I have already purchased it and worn it to work and no one was the wiser. I fooled them all with my really fancied up cotton tee! As a word of advice, it is very thin so you busty girls want a good bra or a thin tank top underneath. Now, with the code EXTRA30 at checkout you will get an additional 30% off an already low sale price. I'm jealous you will have done better than me!

FYI

Coming this spring Spanx will be making swimwear! Exciting, I know. Frankly, I'm surprised they didn't think of it sooner! Their patented shapwear materials and designs are already so popular for wearing under our clothes it only seems natural that it be put to even better use: the dreaded bathing suit–just in time for spring break vacations. Loving the middle one... can't wait to try it on!

Things For Spring

Everyone is talking about the trends for spring and the uncommonly warm weather has definatly had me thinking about it as well.

A lighter colored scarf is definately on my list because I love them. I saw this while I was in the mall today and I liked this scarf. Love the ombre, love the color, love love love it.

I know I don't need anymore shoes but, when I saw these all I could think was what an amazing punch they would add to my spring/summer ensembles. Don't you agree? If you do you can pre-order them here... and then I will be jealous.

I will definately be on the look out for more because by the time the real warm weather hits these things will all be on sale...

For Your Friend Who Has Everything...

Just in time for random Christmas gift giving Christian Louboutin has collaborated with Barbie to create this limited edition 'Cat Burglar' doll. In a black catsuit and Differa sandals, she is the perfect gift for fashion lovers. She comes with a collection of 4 red-soled Louboutins, each with their own shoe box and bag. What a great way to get little girls started on their shoe obsession early... or surprise a friend who loves the red sole.

Several pieces from the Rodarte for Target collection will be available at Target To-Go Holiday Pop-Up, a limited-time-only walk-up holiday shopping event, before it hits stores nationwide on December 20th, from Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, at Gansevoort and Washington Streets, at the High Line entrance in New York City. Pop-ups will also launch in San Fran and DC. You can get some pieces from the collection including:

• Sequin ribcage dress, $49.99
  
• Black halter dress, $39.99
  
• Coral slip dress, $39.99
  
• Bow belts, $12.99

In addition to scooping up pieces from the Rodarte collection before the line's official launch, shoppers can dash up and dash off with the hottest mix of 50 holiday gifts at everyday low prices, wrapped and ready To-Go.

Stay Fabulously Warm

As the first major chill begins to set in I can't help but thinking of ways to keep myself toasty. Sure, I can bundle up in a goose down parka and wait out the winter but, I feel there has to be a better way. Enter a new collection of fleece-lined products called Plush, a collection that includes leggings, tights, knee-high, thigh highs, all with a thin fleece lining (the packaging is made of partially recycled paper, btw.) Looking at them, you can’t tell they are any thicker than regular hosiery, yet the difference is immediately felt once you venture outside. Although they are a little thicker in the foot area, you can still manage to easily slip on any heels, and be off! Priced from $22-$70, the items at Plush can easily be worth the invest, and I have a feeling you won’t be able to wash the items fast enough for the amount you’ll be wearing them! So long, paper-thin leggings!

Keep Going International

Zac Posen will be the next limited edition designer of Target's Go International series. His Go International collection will be available at most Target stores nationwide and online from April 25 through May 30. Expect prices to range from approximately $14.99 to $149.99 (yeah things are getting a bit pricey now aren't they?) In the meantime, don't forget to check out Rodarte for Target, which launches on December 20th! Hopefully they will be pulling out all the stops!

Splurge vs. Budget Fringe Necklace

With the overwhelming amount of metallic accessories this fall there are alot of choices out there. But, why spend a ton of money on something that is overwhelmingly trendy and bound to be out of style as quickly as it came. Here are choices for you... which one if more expensive?
The left one is the $34.50 Ann Taylor Loft version while the right one is the marked down $9.99 Urban Outiftters version. The best part about our budget choice is that it's are having free shipping right now with the code FREEBIRD. While you're at it you can pick up one of my favs from Fab Collabs on super sale!

Do It Yourself

Maybe you are the make everything yourself type, or perhaps you prefer to pick it up at the store... either way, you don't need to be Martha Stewart to use this recipe! Stray away from the chemical additives in normal lipgloss and make your own. This beautiful shade will take you through the end of fall and carry you through winter in style!

Beet Lip Gloss
10 minutes; makes 1/2 ounce

What You Need:
(local and organic whenever possible)

• 1 beet (light-colored red beets yield a red shade; darker ones get you a merlot color)
• 3 drops olive oil
• 2 Tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 capsule of vitamin E oil
• Repurposed lip gloss container or pillbox

Directions:

1. Remove beet from stem, wash, and chop into 1-inch pieces.

2. Place chopped beet in microwave-safe container and heat on high for 1 minute until it releases juice.

3. Pour beet juice and the rest of the ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly (add sugar by the teaspoon until it reaches your desired thickness).

4. Empty the finished blend into a small jar, preferably a repurposed lip gloss container. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 hours to thicken, then apply as you like. It'll keep for 6-8 months.

If You're Going To Do It

Then do it right!!! Black Friday shopping can be a majorly amazing way to save some money and knock alot of people off your shopping list. On the other hand... it can be a total headache! My recommendation to avoid the stress that comes along with venturing out on Black Friday is to only go if you have a plan. Check out the some deals from your everyday favorite stores and be out of there by brunch.

Get Some Culture

We should all go see the Design for a Living World exhibit at the Cooper-Hewitt. I'm planning my weekend around it right now. It shows how 10 top designers put their pins and needles on sustainable materials and made beautiful things. Check out Kate Spade's woven totes with FSC-certified hardwood handles and jipijapa, a fun-to-say fiber made from palm leaves; Isaac Mizrahi's salmon-leather shoes, made with re-purposed materials and fewer toxic chems than regular leather; and Ted Muehling's veg-ivory jewelry, like bangles and earrings, carved from ivory-nut palm tree seeds.

Design for a Living World at Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum,
2 E. 91st St. (212-849-8400). Tickets, $10/adult.

Green Your Holiday

	Shop eco jewelry from Yania Creations, Jeeyun Ha & Real Jewels, home decor from Humble Collection & Tilonia Artisans, sustainable shoes from Charmone, accessories from Kaija Handbags, First World Trash & The Hand of Fatima, baby wear from Positively Organic, organic pet treats from Get Lick'd, organic beauty products from Spirit Beauty Lounge, Lee Lai, Nima Nyima & She Essential Beauty, gourmet food and drink from Guyaki and more... All under one roof!

Grrrrrrrrowl!

How cute are these simple round toe ballet flats? They are trimmed with ribbed grosgrain at the rim and bow made of cording. The printed design has a patent glossy finish while the sole features a flat, kitten heel. Yes, you are seeing the price correctly....$7.50! Get them now before they sell out!!!

Smart and Sustainable Shopping

via College Candy

As you may have gathered from my previous articles, I am a shopaholic. Even if I have no money, I can’t help but scour the internet for deals at the online sample sales (seriously, check out Ideeli, it’s amazing). And even though I can’t always buy sustainable products, I still try to buy in sustainable ways.

Here are my favorite shopping tips to don’t just save the environment, but they can also save you money.

Read on, my fellow “Frugalista” (thank you, Target.)

Shop in stores. Preferably ones you can walk or carpool to. Retailers get their shipments in bulk, which decreases the amount of packaging material used to deliver the products. When you shop online, shipping costs (and all that wasted paper and cardboard) can add up quickly, so spare yourself and hit the local mall (with your reusable tote!). Be sure to try on before you buy so you can avoid the extra gas needed to return something to the store.

Look for local labels. Try to buy from companies that are based in the your state to cut down on energy needed for transportation. If that’s not possible, look for brands that produce their products within the United States. American Apparel, C&C Cailfornia, Splendid, J.Crew, Lucky Jeans, Joe’s Jeans, True Religion, Juicy Couture, 7 For All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, and Rock and Republic (just to name a few) all manufacture their clothing in the U.S.

Shop smart online. If you’re going to shop online, be sure you do it in an ecologically responsible manner by using the following tips.

Buy in bulk. Wait until you have a large order before ordering online or combine with friends to save on the environmental and financial costs of shipping.

Ditch the rush order stress. Plan ahead so you don’t have to choose expedited shipping over standard shipping rates. This also gives the Postal Service a chance to fill up their trucks with packages before shipping them out. More packages = fewer cross-country trips = a happy planet.

Choose your delivery address wisely. Be sure to have your packages delivered to a convenient address. If you have them delivered to your apartment, for example, be sure that your roommates will be around to pick it up for you. If they aren’t available, leave a note on the door telling the postman that he can just leave the package on the doorstep without a signature. This avoids the annoying and fuel-guzzling trips back and forth to the Post Office.

Switch to Paperless Statements. Once all your earth-friendly shopping is done, you’re going to have to pay that credit card bill. But make Mother Earth proud and do it all online. No more 5-page bills coming to you in the mail. No more wasted paper (and money!) on mailing that check back to the company. It’s the greenest way to pay.

Updates

As I mentioned back in June Carlos Falchi is doing a collection for Chez Target. The wait is almost over! It will be launching November 1st in stores and online. Hobos, satchels, shoulder and messenger bags in great fall colors can be found in the collection, with a price range of only $19.99 to $49.99. I think the price is a little steep but, maybe it's just because I'm not overwhelmed by anything. Check out the images below, what do you think?

Sale Alert

Sale Alert

Who Up Next For Target?

Jean Paul Gaultier is doing a Target collection, reports The Cut via WWD. The over-the-top designer's collection will be available at more than 250 Target stores across the country and naturally Target.com on March 7 through April 11.

Following Alexander McQueen and Anna Sui, Gaultier is the third established designer to do a collection for the mass retailer under the Designer Collaboration series. His chosen muse? The American woman, "celebrating the forces of style both past and present in American pop culture," a Target spokesperson says.

I'm looking forward to seeing what he comes out with but, I take the whole thing with a grain of salt. Anna Sui was a little bit disappointing.

Participate!

In a Save the Garment Center demonstration! On Wednesday October 21 at 12 p.m. on the corner of 39th Street and Seventh Avenue, the fate of the Garment District is in your hands. The Save the Garment Center initiative is hosting a rally to stir discussion about the industry's (and neighborhood's) current state. Supporters to take to the podium include Nanette Lepore, CFDA executive director Steven Kolb and Simon Collins, the Dean of Fashion at The New School for Design.Designers, CDFA members, factory workers, Workers United Union employees, as well as Parsons and Pratt students, will assemble to coax Mayor Bloomberg and city officials to reconsider the effort to rezone New York City's Garment Center. The current statistics are staggering. "I'm concerned. I want to preserve and build on the 5% on manufacturing that is left here in New York City," said Nanette Lepore Monday evening during the screening of Marc Levin's documentary Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags, which will premiere on Monday the 19 on HBO. Community members will gather outside the Button and Needle Statue to fight for the district so that it does not literally fall apart at the seams.

Private Sale

I know, it sounds so exclusive! I will let you in on a little secret. Tory Burch is having an absolutely awesome private online sale. I love the casual easy feel of her classic styles but, normally they are way out of my price range. The sale is definitely a good one but, still a little pricey. If I see something I am absolutely in love with though it's the perfect reason to pick it up because this is probably the best you are going to get.