Dara Fleischer: February 2008 Archives

Attention shopaholics! Better clear your calendar for one of the biggest buying extravaganzas of the season: Intermix’s blowout end-of-season warehouse sale.

Not one, but four fun-filled days of discount designer shopping with some of the biggest names in the biz at up to 75% off, all under one roof!

Shop outrageous steals and deals from Theory (flirty frocks for work and play), Vince (amazing tops), Anlo, DSquared, Luciano Padovan and many, many more. And don’t forget to check out the chichi designer-only area for irresistible merch from Stella McCartney, Matthew Williamson, Valentino and more.

Can’t cope with the pressure of duking it out with other hardcore shopping divas? Don’t sweat it… Intermix staff will be on-site to help you find frocks for your body and budget.

If you have a fashion emergency or need some retail therapy, drop the iVillage team a line anytime at stealsanddeals@nbcuni.com!

The Retail Details!
What: Intermix Warehouse Sale
Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th St., NYC (btw 6th & 7th Aves.)

Thursday, February 28th (9am-8pm)
Friday, February 29th (9am-8pm)
Saturday, March 1st (9am-8pm)
Sunday, March 2nd (10am-6pm)

See you there!

Craving an online community where you can talk “shop” 24/7? Look no further than StoreAdore.com – a new web portal designed for shopaholics, including yours truly.

Conceived by Meredith Barnett, a former fashion editor, and Cristina Miller, a management consultant, as a resource to assist avid shoppers and tourists throughout North America, Store Adore profiles new stores as well as long-time favorites in a fun and easy-to-navigate, interactive environment.

Surf the site for exclusive deals from the hottest boutiques in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, as well as the hippest e-stores. Plus, the site’s free membership feature lets you create Shopper Profiles where you can post pictures of items you've bought (or want), email messages to other like-minded shoppers, and receive special notices about your favorite stores. I adore the Notepad blog, which features shopping news, obsessions and the latest trends from all your favorite boutiques.  

Visit Store Adore right now for 20% off designer labels at otteny.com (my fave Manhattan boutique), UrbanChicOnline.com (luxe contemporary brands like Alice + Olivia), Pink Olive (Havaiana flip flops to baby frocks) and so many others.

If you have a fashion emergency or need some retail therapy, drop the iVillage team a line any time at stealsanddeals@nbcuni.com!

Can’t cope with the chaos of brick-and-mortar sample sales? Better check out HauteLook.com - an invitation-only sample sale site that offers members FREE access to dreamy designer clothing brands at up 75 % off retail, minus the catfights.

Sign-up for their email list and you’ll gain instant access to one-of-a-kind reconstructed frocks from The Great China Wall, starting this Tuesday, February 26th from 8am to 11pm.

Other cool membership perks include behind the scenes designer videos, backstage fashion show footage, designer interviews and previews of upcoming collections.  

Additional sales scheduled for this week: Orion London (funky bold striped dresses) and Katy Rodriguez (pretty cocktail frocks).

Well, what are you waiting for? Join the hautest shopping club in cyberspace… I just did! Visit HauteLook.com for more information. Happy shopping!

Looking for something fun to do in the Big Apple tonight? Grab the girls and head to Té Casan - a haute footwear haven that happens to be hosting a FREE shopping event, “Fashion with Compassion.”

Stop by the SoHo-based boutique tonight from 7-9pm for VIP access to dreamy designer footwear, schmoozing and sipping cocktails.

Glam up your gams with Natalie Portman’s new vegan line (shown here), which includes a chic assortment of metallic gold and silver fabric sandals with dainty rhinestone buckles, black satin ballet flats to faux red patent pumps. Also not-to-be-missed are the chunky wooden platform sandals by Fay Baldock (my personal faves) and the cobalt blue Grecian-inspired flats by Niki Robinson. And don’t overlook the slightly reduced fall/winter stock, which can also be previewed online.

You can shop without the guilt, knowing your donation is going to a worthy cause. A portion of the proceeds from the evening will go to LESC Foundation dba Angel Street Thrift Shop, to benefit people affected with HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, mental illness and Bridge2Life Camp, a LES Foundation youth initiative. 

The Retail Details!
What: Fashion with Compassion
When: Thursday, February 21, 2008
Time: 7pm-9pm
Where: Té Casan, 382 West Broadway (between Spring and Broome)
RSVP: scipriani@lesc.org or call 212-566-7781

As a Shopping Editor, I’ve come across a lot of innovative clothing and accessory concepts over the years. But nothing compares to the knockout knit hunting cap I recently spotted from designer Lara Kazan.

Perfect for forgetful femmes like me, the haute Lara Kazan cocoa-colored hat (shown here) comes with a handy conjoined scarf, ensuring maximum warmth and style. Better yet, the neckwear can be detached, giving you two killer accoutrements for the price of one. How cool is that? And yes, the extra-long scarf looks just as chic when worn solo.

A New York-based designer who kicked-off her hand-knit accessory line in 2000 with “Lara Legs,” a funky, vintage-inspired collection of hand-crocheted legwear, Lara recently added a jaw-dropping assortment of clothing and other cutting-edge accessories.

My personal faves: a pair of chocolate knit cuffs with detachable mittens, Lara’s signature ‘80’s-inspired legwarmers (much more fashionable than the Flashdance kind), arm warmers in edgy checkered-color combos like charcoal and violet, chic riding hood capes, cozy cocoon sweaters (the electric blue ensemble is to-die-for), fitted vests with contrasting piping and leather saddle belts.

Since Lara is about to debut her spring line (wait ‘til you see the stunning crochet shrugs!), she’s graciously offering iVillage “Steals & Deals” fans 30% off all her Fall/Winter ’08 merchandise while supplies last. Woo hoo!

Visit LaraKazan.com to preview the current knitwear collection and place your order by emailing info@larakazan.com or by calling 212-594-6646. Make sure to mention iVillage “Steals & Deals” to redeem your discount. Happy shopping!

Before you even think about splurging on your spring wardrobe, you’d better save some cash for Otteny.com’s irresistible end of season clothing and accessory sale.

Known for stocking a well-edited mix of both established and emerging independent designers, Otte New York is my go-to spot for casual items such as Vince cardigans, high-rise James jeans and dressier, to-die-for frocks from Philip Lim (think strapless silk dresses) and See by Chloé.   

And now, with savings of up to 70% off (I repeat, 70% off!), Otte New York is practically giving away designer wardrobe staples that suit every body type and budget.

Some items on my radar screen: Smythe’s mariner jacket (reduced from $604 to $151), Corey Lynn Calter’s sheer balloon-sleeve blouse (slashed from $182 to $42.50!), Tashkent’s burgundy suede platform booties (originally $576 and yours for only $144!), Tom Ford’s over-sized shades (reduced from $360 to $90) and Kale's buttery-soft mushroom brown leather handbag (was $668, now $167).

If you happen to live in Brooklyn, you might want to stop by Otte NY’s swanky Williamsburg store for some of the same irresistible bargains. Happy shopping!

The Retail Details!
What: end of season clothing and accessory sale
Where: shop online at Otteny.com; in Brooklyn, NY at 132 North 5 Street (Bedford Avenue-Berry Street) or NY's West Village at 121 Greenwich Ave.
When: February 12-27, Mon-Fri 12-8; Sat-Sun 12-6
Phone: 718-302-3007 (Williamsburg location) and 212-2299424 (West Village location)

Although I wear black quite often, it doesn’t exactly do wonders for my pasty white complexion. Since I clearly need to brighten things up a notch but can’t afford to splurge on an entirely new wardrobe, I found the next best alternative – Rimistyle.com’s head-turning baubles, belts and handbags.

A one-stop shop for a variety of fashionable and affordable accoutrements, Rimistyle has become my go-to place for pieces that are classic, funky or delicate. My personal faves: the vintage shell heart charm bracelet shown above ($22), Cupid’s Arrow earrings ($11.99), a gleaming gold basket weave cuff ($22), an edgy metallic chain cutout belt ($12) and a must-have patent red croc clutch ($29,99).

In honor of Valentine’s Day, Rimistyle.com is offering “Steals & Deals” readers 15% off all merchandise from February 14th through March 15th, 2008. To redeem this special offer, simply enter the promo code “ivillagedeals” upon checkout.

Happy Valentine’s Day!
xo

Calling all you bodacious babes! If you have dangerous curves, Smart Ass – a “cheeky” line of inspirational lingerie, has got a deal for you!

Buy 2 large or extra-large Smooth Operator or Everyday Sexy items and receive 50% off your total purchase with Smart Ass Intimates. FYI: items are normally priced between $16-$38.

For Valentine’s Day, I’m surprising my hubbie with the flirty ‘n feminine Everyday Sexy pink heart thong (shown here) and matching cami. The fabric is so comfy and sheer, it practically disappears under clothing. By the way, the same Everyday Sexy pattern also comes in a butt-lifting bikini bottom and boy short. But if you’re not into hearts, there’s also an ultra chic paisley pattern (a.k.a. black scroll).  

Should you want something a little less risqué, Smart Ass’s Smooth Operator, a micro-fibre and laser cut panty/cami line, is sure to save the day. Available in nude and black, SmoothOperator includes a cami with built in shelf bra and adjustable straps, a gal short, a bikini with scalloped edge and an ultra-comfy thong. Buy Smooth Operator and kiss those VPLs goodbye!

Don’t delay! Visit smartassgals.com today and enter the promo code “babes2” upon checkout. Offer expires March 31, 2008. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Since my hubbie is conveniently traveling for business on Valentine’s Day, one of the most obligatory and saccharine of Hallmark holidays, I’m treating myself to a soothing spa-ahh afternoon.

Rather than pay top dollar for a last-minute mani, pedi and deep tissue massage, I’m taking advantage of “Love You” – a luscious beauty bonanza featuring popular treatments at top spas and salons across the nation for just $59!

A special Valentine’s Day promo brought to you by PrettyCity.com and The Heart Truth, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease, Love You was created to remind women everywhere to take charge of their own heart health and treat themselves.  

Well, what are you waiting for? Go on and book your guilt-free day of beauty! Click here for nation-wide spa listings.

You MUST mention that you are requesting a "Love You" treatment when booking. No coupon necessary.
These special rates are only valid until February 15, 2008. Happy spa-ahhing!

When it comes to shopping for clothes, I’ve always favored small, boutique-y environments over busy chain stores. Call me high-maintenance, but I like getting special attention from sales staff such as frequent phone calls informing me about all the latest merch, free alterations and the ability to buy anything on layaway. Judging from the friendly vibe at Leelush, a hip Lower East Side East hideaway in New York, which recently popped-up on Ludlow Street, I’m hoping to get even more of the same star treatment.

Stocked with a well-edited mix of girly gear with an urban twist, Leelush is a true shopper’s paradise thanks to prices that won’t break the bank. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, proprietors Zarie Muelle and Elinor Arzt are throwing a red-haute sale on all their merch, with prices reduced up to 75% off!  

Stop by Leelush this Tuesday, February 12th from 5-10pm for irresistible deals on Vancouver-based designers Dace (a trendy cobalt tunic was reduced from $194 to $97!) and Chulo Pony (the fitted red jacket shown above was slashed from $314 to $157!), along with mind-blowing bargains on new spring clothes, vintage shoes, boots and handbags.

Another reason to sprint to Leelush this Tuesday night: FREE drinks and sweet treats, along with psychic readings and complimentary makeovers. See you there!

The Retail Details!
What: Leelush Shopping Party
Where: 29 Ludlow Street, NYC (btw Canal & Hester)
When: Tuesday, February 12, 5-10pm
Phone: 212-431-4433
Website: shop online at leelush.com

The Shoe Box, one of my favorite Big Apple boutiques, just called to inform me that I’m on their “preferred” customer list (woo hoo!). I know I’m a likeable gal, but what could I possibly have done to deserve this? Then again, perhaps it’s because of the Luba J. patent leather bag and Loeffler Randall platform shoes I impulsively splurged on last month.

Whatever the reason, one of the many exciting perks I’m now be privy to is access to  “VIP” Shoe Box events such as this weekend’s friends and family sale. Sure my closet is full to the brim, but with 20% off any Spring '08 shoe or handbag, how can I possibly resist? And since I’m all about sharing the wealth, I’m happy to extend the same VIP treatment to my new iVillage family. Yes, that means you!

Head to this friendly, family-run biz for an insane selection of high-fashion footwear and handbags your wardrobe deserves. Glam up your gams with Marc Jacobs (suede booties), Nanette Lepore (peep-toe pumps) and so much more. Also not-to-be-missed are the dreamy Rebecca Minkoff shoulder bags, Lauren Merkin clutches and Anna Corinna totes.

But don’t take my word for it… sprint on over and see for yourself! When you arrive, ask for Fama (the adorable store manager) and she’ll enter you in a drawing to win a killer pair of kicks and shoulder candy. Happy shopping!

The Retail Details:
Who: The Shoe Box Friends & Family Sale
What: Includes Spring items and sale merchandise
When: Saturday, February 9th & Sunday, February 10th, 10am-7pm
Where: 77th and 3rd Ave
Phone: 212-535-9615

In case you haven’t guessed by now, I have a bit of a footwear fetish. One of my favorite New York-based stomping grounds for cool kicks is Clarabella - a cozy store-cum-gallery space that also sells a jaw-dropping assortment of stylish bags, belts, jewelry and even art.

During one of my recent FashionJunkie shopping tours, I discovered that Clarabella is holding an insane end-of-season footwear sale. Since all their current Fall/Winter stock must go (Spring shipments are already trickling in), now is your chance to score some major deals. Read: 40% off all boots and 25% off all shoes.

Some styles worth noting:

Suede wedge heel booties with lamb fur lining like the ones shown here (Tashkent by Cheyenne, originally $420, now $252!), brown suede and knit over the knee boots (Tashkent by Cheyenne, originally $540, now $324), black suede over the knee wedge heel boots with fur lining (Tashkent by Cheyenne, originally $560, now $336), striped leather peep-toe heels (Marcello Toshi, were $320, now $240), red patent leather flats with side cutouts (Faryl Robin, were $130, now $97.50) and brown suede slip-on boots (Marcello Toshi, were $460, now $276).

Having shopped at Clarabella dozens of times, I guarantee you won’t head home empty-handed. That is, assuming there's anything left. Better hurry!

The Retail Details:
Store: Clarabella
Address: 279 East Houston Street, NYC (@ Clinton Street)
Hours: Tues-Sat, 12-8pm; Sun, 12-7pm; Closed Mondays
Phone: 212-979-0270
Website: clarabellanyc.com

Calling all vintage junkies! Mark your calendar for the biggest sale of the season - the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show!

Grab the girls and head to the Metropolitan Pavilion this Friday, February 8th and Saturday, February 9th for a fun-filled shopping extravaganza you won’t wanna miss. Set aside at least an afternoon for sifting through 80 (yes, 80!) of the nation’s top vintage clothing and accessory dealers. Sounds too good to be true? Better check out this list of treasure troves:

Pump it up! Hot designer pumps and stilettos from the ‘60’s and ‘80’s, never worn and in mint condition, are from $75-$125. Killer stiletto-heeled calf-high boots in suede and leather are only $165-$245.

Belt it! Three-inch wide cinch belts in leather, crocodile or suede from the ‘60’s and ‘80’s are $95-$165.

It’s in the bag! Designer tote and clutch handbags in exotic skins, including crocodile, leopard, giraffe and snake-skin are $68-$128.

Call 518-434-4312 to RSVP or visit their website, manhattanvintage.com

The Retail Details!
What: Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show
Where: The Metropolitan Pavilion
Address: 125 W. 18th Street, NYC (btw 6th and 7th Aves.)
Phone: 212-691-7297.
Hours:  1-8pm on Friday, Feb. 8; 11-6pm on Saturday, Feb. 9th
Tickets: $20

Yesterday morning I sprung out of bed at the ungodly hour of 6:00am - way before my annoying alarm ever goes off. Why the outlandish behavior? Showroom Seven’s Spring sample sale was scheduled to begin in three hours and I couldn’t bare the thought of being tardy for all the best bargains.

For the next two weeks, Showroom Seven is unloading deeply discounted designer sportswear and accessories (read: wholesale prices!) and you, dear reader, are invited to be a part of all the action. Woo hoo!

Stock up on A&G’s cashmere v-neck mini tank dress with Swarovski trim (slashed from $1000 to $400!), Erickson Beamon’s “Techno Deco” neon Lucite bangles (retails for $360-$475, but can be yours for only $142-$191), Issa London’s silk jersey halter dress with a pretty butterfly print (reduced from $700 to $308), Orla Kiley’s funky floral print laminated shoulder bag (sells for $184 retail, but can be yours for only $90) and Tee Party’s tie knot striped cotton dress (reduced from $108 to $41).

Just don’t forget to bring photo ID – it’s required for building access. Happy shopping!

Sample Sale Details:
Where: Showroom Seven
Address: 498 Seventh Avenue (btw 36th & 37th Streets)
24th Floor
When: Monday, February 4th – 15th
Hours: 9am-7pm
Phone: 212-643-4810
Website: showroomseven.com
Payment: Cash, Visa, M/C and Amex

There are a slew of insider retail events, sample sales and exclusive iVillage deals to divulge this week. Since I can’t share everything at once (you’ll have to tune-in daily!), I’m starting my first post with a snippet for all you Project Runway fans.

New York-based designer Emmett McCarthy of Bravo’s hit TV show, Project Runway, is holding a special “Fashion Week Florals” sample sale at his hipster Nolita boutique to get YOU geared-up for Spring!

Stop by the chic Elizabeth Street shop today through Sunday for sizzling Spring clothes and accessories at seriously reduced prices. Plus, you’ll get to meet the man behind the brand, Emmett McCarthy, himself!

Work your Spring wardrobe with flirty ‘n feminine floral print dresses
(including the stunner shown here), billowy tops in ultra bright colors, cutting-edge coats, killer kicks and other must-have accessories.

The Retail Details!
What: Emmett McCarthy Sample Sale
When: Monday, February 4th - Sunday, February 10th
Where: 240 Elizabeth Street (btw Prince & Houston)
Why: In Celebration of Spring & NYC Fashion Week
Phone: 212-431-4134
Website: emmettmccarthy.com
Price Range: $75 (tops, dresses, coats + accessories) - $600 (cashmere coats)
Store Hours: Mon-Sat, 11-7; Sun 12-6

Hope to see you there!