June 2008 Archives

Living a stone’s throw away from Manhattan’s Union Square Farmers’ Market has turned me into a bonafide treehugger. Aside from ‘saying no’ to bottled water (my Brita does the job just fine) and The New York Times (hey, it’s free online!), I also recently put the kibosh on plastic bags.

However, since I refuse to cram my groceries in a beige canvas carryall (too bohemian)!, I found the next best thing: the stylish, eco-friendly Beau Soleil denim tote (a.k.a. the Beau America).

Available exclusively at ShopBop.com, Beau America’s Fourth of July-inspired bag is a total steal at only $55. In case you can’t tell from this photo, the bag is emblazoned with white “Reduce Recycle Renew America” lettering across the front and comes in both light and dark-rinse denim. And yes, even the red handles are made from recycled cotton. Another cool feature about the Beau America bag: it comes equipped with patch pockets at the front, back and sides, making it ideal for stowing your keys, cash and shades.

In an effort to help reduce your carbon footprint, our friends at Beau Soleil are giving away the very same denim tote to one lucky Steals & Deals reader! To enter the giveaway, just tell us how you plan to preserve the planet this holiday and beyond, whilst showing off your new shoulder candy, of course!

Don’t be shy! Share your stories right here with the Steals & Deals community. We’ll announce the winner in one week. Good luck!

Big-footed femmes rejoice! You can finally toss those flip-flops and fugly runners into the trash (typically the only kicks available for extra-large soles). The BIGGEST breakthrough in fashionable online footwear, BarfootTess.com, has become the go-to place for high-fashion footwear in larger ladies’ sizes, including 10 through 15. That’s right… up to size 15!

BarefootTess.com carries dozens of coveted designer brands (Chie Mihari to Loeffler Randall) as well as its own stylish private label line, all of which are available in size 10 and up. No wonder big-footed babes à la Jessica Biel are disciples!

Since you can never have too much of a big (err, good) thing, BarefootTess.com is treating Steals & Deals readers to an exclusive 15% discount off any designer shoe of your choice! Having just perused the site, I guarantee you too will be toe-tally blown away by the sheer range of stylish kicks, all of which happen to be reasonably priced.

Slide into summer with sizzling styles ranging from Matt Bernson’s ‘Nouer II’ sandal in snazzy red ($169), Sam Edelman’s Indie patent-leather wedges (only $49!), Dolce Vita’s Dakoda butterfly sandal shown above ($69), Corso Como’s edgy wedgie ($149) and Barefoot Tess’s very own Susanna Heel in grey ($39), to name a few.

Just make sure to use the promo code “DEAL” at checkout to receive your discount. Happy shopping!

Calling all beauty junkies! We just got word that Nordstrom’s coveted cosmetics exclusives will be available for purchase from July 18th through August 3rd. Woo hoo!

However, since waiting sucks and no one wants to duke-it-out with other die-hards at the cosmetics counter, you can also pre-order any of these limited-edition makeup must-haves at Nordstrom.com starting today!

Click your way through hundreds of irresistible beauty boo-tay including MAC’s shimmery eye-shadow palette ($38), Bobbi Brown’s Cocoa Mauve Collection, $83 (everything you need for a fab face), Chanel Illuminating Powder, $63 (I’m a sucker for anything embossed with the signature double C logo!), Bare Escentuals In-Fashion 8-Piece Set ($127), Smashbox Socialite Beauty Collection, $59 (everything you need to get glam) and Juicy Couture’s Viva La Juicy Eau de Parfum Roll-On ($16), to name a few.

Just keep in mind all pre-orders will be shipped on July 18th. Happy shopping!

Did you know that Bliss, the pampering spa and skincare oasis, has a fully-loaded e-store that sells not just private label beauty booty, but also fashionable designer frocks?

Having just perused the site, I also discovered that you can treat yourself to sizzling summer wardrobe finds without breaking the bank! Visit BlissWorld.com right now through Friday, June 20th for savings up to 75% off the retail price!

Click your way through serious “Bliss-counts” on big name fashion brands, including a Susana Monaco Claudette Dress (slashed from $165 to $115!), a Rachel Pally Short Sleeve Lantern Dress (reduced from $202 to $89!), a Chan Luu Hematite bead necklace (originally $160, now only $96!), a Melissa Obadash Fleur Top (slashed from $205 to $99!), the Ella Moss Corsica Crochet Dress shown here (reduced from $299 to $110) and so many other steamy silhouettes.

Frugal fashionistas considering comparison-shopping for these pieces somewhere else, trust me, it’s not worth the stress.  Bliss out!

Can’t cope with the chaos of brick-and-mortar sample sales? Do yourself a favor and check out EditorsCloset.com – a by-invitation-only sample sale site that offers members FREE access to jaw-dropping designer clothing brands at up 75% off retail, sans the catfights.

As you know from yesterday’s Bulga handbag giveaway post, I’m all about fun surprises. Continuing with this trend, I’ve arranged a FREE membership to EditorsCloset.com exclusively for iVillagers! Once you’ve signed-up, you’ll receive an e-vite to weekly sample sales (from Betsey Johnson to Diesel), even the coveted “red carpet” ones - special bi-monthly sample sales featuring barely-worn designer couture items.

In fact, the very first red carpet sale kicks off this morning and features haute couture dresses like the one shown here by elite Italian fashion house, Moschino. Plus, when you register, you’ll automatically get $40 off any item of your choice. Expect gorgeous fabrics, earthy colors and stellar detail, making Moschino a must-have in every closet. 

Just don’t ponder those purchases for too long! The red carpet sample sale only runs ‘til Wednesday, June 18th at midnight. Happy shopping!

FYI: make sure to use the promo code ”iVillageMoschino” at checkout to receive your $40 discount!

Have you been invited to shop at Ideeli.com yet? In case you haven’t joined the club, Ideeli is a members-only, luxury sample-sale site that’s the biggest thing to happen in the sport of shopping since the Internet.

Since I’m all about sharing the love, I’m arranged a FREE membership to Ideeli.com exclusively for Steals & Deals readers. Once you’ve signed-up, you’ll receive an e-vite to a new designer sale each day, from deeply discounted Bulga handbags (my personal fave) to Missoni shades!

In fact, when you register at Ideeli.com, you’ll automatically be entered to win this stunning Bulga satchel! Valued at $800 retail, this Bulga handbag giveaway is something you simply can’t afford to miss!

Not familiar with Bulga handbags? Created by former model-turned-designer Natalia Konovalova, Bulga bags tread a perfect line between utility and glamour. They’re sturdy, lightweight, and gorgeously adorned with opulent hardware like the one shown here. This purple stunner is crafted from super soft Italian leather, making it the perfect all-purpose bag. Another hidden benefit: Bulga’s signature, hand crafted details include multiple zippers, exquisite silk lining and hidden interior pockets (perfect for safely stowing your valuables).

As the proud owner of a Bulga, I honestly can’t say enough good things about this bag collection. But don’t take my word for it… log onto Ideeli.com right now to see for yourself!

All you “Friends & Family” sale fanatics will be thrilled to know that I just received yet another irresistible invite! This one’s from Té Casan, a to-die-for Big Apple-based footwear emporium.

Starting today through Sunday, June 15th, Té Casan’s regular priced shoes are all being discounted by 30% off! Plus, you can even apply that same discount towards already reduced stock, for a total savings of up to 70% off!

Some highlights of what you’ll find: killer hot pink open-toed pumps adorned with rhinestones (reduced from $295 to $177.50!), red suede ballet flats (slashed from $255 to $153.50!), funky black flats embellished with studs (slashed from $295 to $177.50!), chunky wooden wedges with citrus-colored straps (originally $265, now $159.90!) and haute metallic snakeskin heels from Natalie Portman’s coveted eco-friendly collection.

Dying to take advantage of this promo but don’t live in the New York metro area? Don’t fret… simply place your “Friends & Family” order over the phone to receive the same great discount. Just make sure to ask for the store manager when you call. FYI: Té Casan does have an e-commerce website, but the Friends & Family promo isn’t applicable online.

Happy shopping!

The Retail Details!
What: Té  Casan Friends & Family Sale
When: Friday, June 13t – Sunday, June 16th
Where: Te Casan, 382 West Broadway, NYC 9@ Broome)
Phone: 212-584-8000
Website: tecasan.com

With Father’s Day only 4 days away, now’s the time to buy those last-minute gifts! Rather than buy Dad yet another predictable tie or golf shirt, why not surprise him with something he really needs, like a “man-scaping” kit from Kiehl’s - the coveted skincare apothecary.

Lucky for you, Kiehl’s just happens to be hosting a friends and family fiesta that kicks-off this weekend. And since I’m all about sharing the love, I’m extending this exclusive invite to my Steals & Deals family! Shop online at Kiehls.com from Saturday, June 15th though Wednesday, June 18th and you’ll save 20% off all of your purchases!

If you’re new to Kiehl’s, some popular picks for Dad include the “Ultimate Father’s Day collection” – a pampering gift set filled with best-selling products such as Brushless Shaving Cream, Facial Fuel (a soothing blue face wash), Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap, Lip Balm and much more. If Dad’s the outdoor type, you can’t go wrong with Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15, a lightweight skin savior that happens to my personal fave. In fact, with a deal this irresistible, I might as well throw in a few bottles for myself!  

Just make sure to enter online promo code “FAMILY” at checkout to receive the discount. And if you happen to visit a free-standing Kiehl’s store, don’t bother heading home ‘til you’ve scored some samples - a great way to test-drive their latest skincare before you buy!

Given all this hot ‘n humid weather we’ve been having, next Tuesday’s Shoshanna sample sale is not a day too soon! That’s right… all of Shoshanna’s sizzling swimwear (think sexy string bikinis) and sundresses will be marked down to 75% off retail prices!

Designed by Shoshanna Lonstein Gruss, the coveted collection includes feminine ‘n flirty pieces with whimsical prints that flatter both petites and voluptuous body types alike. Even better, everything is available in 12 different top and bottom sizes, all of which are meant to be sold as separates.

So if you’ve been cursed with cherry pits on top like moi but have a curvier caboose (bummer!), simply mix ‘n match the swimwear sizes accordingly. And as a special bonus for the well-endowed: all of Shoshanna’s bikini tops are designed with a hidden, yet comfy underwire inside the fabric, ensuring superior support. Even the sizing is similar to that of a bra (ranging from petite/small A to DD or medium/large A-DDD). But I digress…

Stock up on flirty ‘n feminine Shoshanna overstock before your next beach getaway! Highlights include signature floral halter sundresses (slashed from $350 to $150!), casual cotton tops (reduced from $250 to $100),
colorful string, halter and bandeau bikini’s (slashed from $165 to $65!) and adorable items from Baby Girl Swim (was $75, now $35!).


Happy shopping!

The Retail Details!
What: Shoshanna Sample Sale!


When:
Tuesday, June 17th & Wednesday, June 18th,
10am-6:30pm
Where:
231 West 39th Street, Suite 422
, NYC
Payment Type: Cash and Credit Cards Accepted
Website: shoshanna.com


I don’t know about you, but I’m sick and tired of in-your-face designer logos emblazoned on bags or anything else for that matter. With the looming recession, flaunting labels just seems a tad tacky and ostentatious. But maybe that’s just me?...

Caveat: there is one particular logo-adorned item I’m contemplating purchasing - those Tory Burch ballet flats (a.k.a. the Reva). You know, those patent-leather skimmers with the round gold logo on the front that every twenty-something fashionista on the planet sports? At  $225 a pop, I initially thought it would be best to buy a pair of Canal Street knockoffs. But cooler heads prevailed when I remembered two important words: blisters and Band Aids!

Clearly there must be a higher power, because the Tory Burch Big Apple store in NoLita is hosting a private shopping soirée next Wednesday with 10% off all purchases (think vintage-inspired frocks with bold graphics and prints). Plus, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to Girls Quest, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to nurturing girls from low-income families in New York City.

Since I’m all about sharing the love, I’m inviting YOU, dear reader, to attend this can’t-miss event! Should you decide to drop by, please contact events@girlsquest.org. Hope to see you there!

The Retail Details!
What: Tory Burch & Girls Quest Shopping Event
When: Wednesday, June 11th from 6-8pm
Where: Tory Burch, 257 Elizabeth Street, NYC (btw Houston & Price)
Why: receive 10% off all purchases! Plus, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Girls Quest
RSVP: events@girlsquest.org or call 212-532-7050, ext. 20

Fashionistas, get your credit cards ready! Scoop, my favorite multi-label clothing chain, is throwing a sale at each of their 10 nation-wide locations starting today! Women’s, men’s and even kids apparel will be discounted by up to 70% off retail!

My personal faves: Diane von Furstenberg’s signature print wrap dresses, Kooba’s killer handbags and their stylish private label beachwear line, which includes safari-inspired tunic tops, floor grazing Maxi dresses and metallic gold flip-flops.

With dozens of drool-worthy items available at deeply discounted prices, you’ll wanna “scoop” up everything!

For a Scoop location near you, visit scoopnyc.com

Happy shopping!

I have to admit, when I started blogging for “Steals & Deals” back in January, I was a bit concerned there wouldn’t be enough sales-worthy content to continually deliver.

But with today’s shaky economy, unsold designer goods are piling up in retailers’ stockrooms like never before. And since major department stores and independent boutiques are so desperate to sell stock before the arrival of next season’s shipments, online and on-land sales are inevitable.

The latest of these recession-buster sales comes courtesy of Winknyc.com, a sassy e-boutique that carries of-the-moment designer clothes, handbags, shoes and baubles.

Winknyc is selling all their remaining Spring ’08 merch for up to 50% off retail! So, if you’re looking to update your warm-weather wardrobe on a bargainista budget, here’s your chance!

Click your way through dozens of in-demand designer brands including Gryphon (a timeless ivory trench was slashed from $550 to $329!), Alisha Levine (the stunning color block dress shown here was reduced from $298 to $178!), Luba J (a navy, patent-leather shoulder bag was slashed from $634 to $380!), Fornarina (leather motorcycle boots were $240 and can be yours for only $120!) and Lenora Dame’s chunky wooden bangles for a paltry $28!

By the way, Steals & Deals wants to know what you think about all the sales we’ve been posting. Don’t be shy… please share your thoughts with the Steals & Deals community.