Discount Galore

Within the past week or so, I’ve visited literally every single mall from Miami to Jensen Beach. Call me crazy but I’m always trying to find the perfect presents for my family and if that means driving hundreds of miles, so be it. Anyway, on my Sawgrass Mills Mall trip, I stopped at Off 5th and found some fabulous items! If you’re looking for designer wear (dresses, shirts, pants and skirts) this is the place to be. Discounts are from 50 to 90 percent off and Lilly Pulitzer dresses were marked down to $24.99. Now I know your Mom or sister would absolutely love getting a Lilly dress for Christmas—they’re great for the Spring luncheons and tea parties!

Bluefly

I was watching Project Runway’s new episodes recently and noticed that the accessories room is sponsored by Bluefly.com. It was at this time that I realized I had never blogged about Bluefly! Silly me, it’s been one of my favorite websites for a few years now and I’m always buying birthday gifts for friends from this trusty discount resource. If you don’t know already, Bluefly is a website, much like Overstock, that sells designer clothing, accessories and shoes for up to 40 percent off the price that you see in department stores. For example, you’ll see Prada and Hermes handbags that sell for $2,000 marked down to $1,200. Even better is that Bluefly has a clearance section where items are marked down 70 percent.

I found this Temma Dahan bag (pictured in black) on Bluefly. Its original price was $425 but it’s selling on Bluefly for $161.99 which is 60 percent off. This item would make a great holiday gift—it’s soft leather is beautiful and the inside is trimmed in red fabric.

I also found this very vibrant Susan Monaco crochet, cotton cardigan. It’s perfect for spring or summer and is currently selling for $104.99 down from $286.

Fit for a Princess

There’s something about princess cut diamond earrings that always look stunning. No matter what you’re wearing, diamond earrings can spruce up your look, adding an elegant touch to the shoddiest of outfits. It is for this reason that I propose every college-aged girl ask their boyfriends and/or significant others for princess cut diamond studs for the holidays. I know what you’re thinking--“but diamond studs are expensive!” Well, not anymore. While browsing Overstock.com in between classes, I found a pair of 14k gold ¼ carrot princess cut diamond studs. Their original price is $430 but Overstock is selling them for $166.49. They come in yellow or white gold.

Who wouldn’t just love these beauties? After all, diamonds are a girls best friend!

New Years Eve Outfit

So I know that I’ve already done a blog concerning wardrobe for New Years Eve but I think I’ve changed my mind. Yes, us girls tend to be indecisive when it comes to cute clothes and it’s often a toss up…. for me, at least.

I found this Sequin Racerback Dress at Forever 21. Its style is simple and casual but the sequins definitely dazzle it up. I’m picturing a silver clutch, pumps and a level 5 spray tan, Ta-Da—the perfect New Years outfit! Oops, and did I mention it’s only $34.80?

So I know that I’ve already done a blog concerning wardrobe for New Years Eve but I think I’ve changed my mind. Yes, us girls tend to be indecisive when it comes to cute clothes and it’s often a toss up…. for me, at least.

I found this Sequin Racerback Dress (pictured in Black) at Forever 21. Its style is simple and casual but the sequins definitely dazzle it up. I’m picturing a silver clutch, pumps and a level 5 spray tan, walla—the perfect New Years outfit! Oops, and did I mention it’s only $34.80?

Love the Shoes

Your holiday work mixer is coming up and you’ve found a black cocktail dress embellished with black satin but you’re having a difficult time finding the appropriate shoes. Every store seems to be filled with boots in every shape and size imaginable but those pumps you’ve envisioned to match with your dress are nowhere to be found. Worry no longer, I’ve managed to find a pair of pumps that will suit just about any holiday cocktail attire!

These satin slingbacks from Arden B will add major sex appeal to any outfit and are currently on sale for $49, down from $98 and are in perfect time for the holiday season. Because of the gold detail, some gold earrings and a bracelet will go wonderfully with your outfit!

The Messenger Bag

Hollywood’s hottest stars have been spotted wearing messenger bags and I think it’s safe to say this trend is worth keeping around for a while. Cameron Diaz, Mischa Barton and Reese Witherspoon have been walking around with Todd, Miu Miu and Gucci messenger bags that fit all essentials. The only set back: these bags retail anywhere from $800-$5,790! Shocking, I know. However; all is good (as the expression goes). I’ve found messenger bags that look like they’re designer but aren’t nearly as expensive as those Hollywood is toting around.

This Perforated Messenger Bag (pictured in black) is a great daytime or nighttime bag and is roomy enough to fit all your necessary items. The price is $462, down from $660 and can be purchased at shopbop.com.

This Mandchourie Nylon Messenger Bag (pictured in pink) from shopbop.com is another designer look-a-like bag that’s only $193 and comes in pink, red, gray and black. It’s sporty and dressy all at the same time.

Cutest Gift

If you haven’t noticed already, the cutest store ever has opened up in the University Center across from FAU. It’s called Swoozies and no, it’s not typically a store that I would blog about, as it doesn’t sell clothes, shoes or accessories. Swoozies sells knickknacks and other very memorable collectibles.

Because it’s close to the holiday’s and we all have friends or relatives who are impossible to shop for, I’ve decided to help out those of you who are at a loss as to what to buy those who have everything. Swoozies carries this line called Krinkles which makes these charming reindeer figures that are sure to make any woman in your life smile! They’re such adorable additions to any Christmas display and I, for one, will be keeping my eye out for any markdowns. They’re $45 per reindeer statue and $30 per ornament. I’ve already purchased two of these reindeer statues and will definitely buy the ornaments as gifts for friends and relatives. I’ve posted a few reindeer, they also come in other outfits—aren’t they the cutest?

Good Old Navy

I don’t usually make time for Old Navy when I’m at Town Center Mall, or any other mall for that matter. However, due to limited parking, I was forced to park in front of Sears. When you enter the mall from Sears, the first store on the left happens to be Old Navy. While walking by, I spotted some adorable knit sweaters and vests and couldn’t help but step inside and take a look. To my surprise, everything was marked down at least 30 percent.

I found this lovely, plaid pea coat—originally $88 but on sale for $44! This coat also comes in solid navy blue, green and light gray ($39). These pea coats are not too heavy and not too light, and are great for those mildly-chilly winter Florida nights. Another item to check out at Old Navy is this Toggle Shawl-Collar Pullover, pictured in red. This item is marked down to $17.70 and comes in navy blue, red, cream and gray.

Fit for New Years Eve

With a new year on the horizon, it only seems necessary to keep an extra eye out for a New Years Eve outfit, while holiday shopping. I don’t know about you but I always seem to choose something sparkly or metallic. For some reason, pieces like these keep me feeling festive and pair perfectly (at the end of a long night) with a plastic Happy New Year tiara and noise maker.

This year, I’ve decided to stick with silver metallic and have purchased this INC Metallic Cutaway Halter Top. This flashy top looks great with a pair of black skinny pants and pumps and the best thing about it is… there’s no need for a necklace! And because the cutaway halter type shirt may not flatter all body types, INC has other cute tops to choose from—all bejeweled and suitable for whichever New Years Party you may find yourself attending.

Original Price: $79

Sale Price: $59.25

See Ya Later Big, Bulky Bags

Bye, bye over-sized, ‘throw your life in them and leave bags.’ This season, clutches and small handbags are the purses to have. No longer are they used just for going out at night, clutches and small handbags with floral prints and brighter colors are being sported during the day with equally unique, intricately beaded purses for the evening.

Anthropology, in the Gardens Mall has a very elegant selection of these types of purses, and they’re all on sale. This Zora Handbag (link) will add an elegant touch to a yellow cotton v-neck dress or black cocktail dress. Its original price was $88 and it’s now marked down to $49.95.

Golden Opportunity to Buy

It’s always nice to have a 14k gold necklace in your jewelry box. I don’t know about you, but I feel this sense of security knowing that in case I need it, it’s there for me to wear. Call me silly but I guess it’s because I’m always attending various cocktail parties and events each season, that I never want to be the one sporting gaudy, fake jewelry that leaves your skin green.

Anyway, for those of us who can’t necessarily afford to buy an expensive piece of gold jewelry on a whim, SAKS has pretty good sales on theirs. Take this cute Emily and Ashley Crown Pendant as an example—I fell in love with this piece in the store. I absolutely adore the little etched crown in the center of the pendant. It’s so delicate looking and adds a sophisticated yet fun look to any outfit. It’s original price is $560 but it’s currently down to $279.90… not too bad.

Quest for Denim

Every girl should own a pair of designer jeans…. Wait, let me rephrase that, a well-fitting pair of designer jeans are essential to every wardrobe. That’s better. Because of their versatility, a fabulous pair of sleek and simple jeans can be worn for a day of shopping in conjunction with sandals, thrown on for a day of relaxing around the house or paired with some stylish pumps for a night on the town. No matter what their purpose, every woman should make it her quest to fit the most perfect pair of jeans. As long as they're not embroidered with floral prints, paints or glitter, jeans will last forever and stay in style for years. Because jeans last for ages and can stay in style for seasons, they’re among the few items that should be a splurge. Recently, while shopping in South Beach, I walked into the True Religion store on Collins Avenue. Everything in the store is expensive. In sticking with my theory that jeans should be a splurge and because True Religions have always been my ‘go to’ jean of choice in years past, I decided to take a look around. For me, they’re the perfect fitting pair of jeans and I can wear them anywhere and for any occasion. On this outing, I found these Bobby Basic Denim Drifters (pictured) and let me tell you… I’m in love with them. At $192, they weren’t the most expensive jeans in the store but were still a bit of a splurge for me. If you’re planning to shop the sales at True Religion, you won’t find many (if any at all). However, if you ever find yourself New Hope, Pennsylvania on a Tuesday or Saturday, please make your way to Rice’s Flea Market. They sell every pair of True Religion Jeans known to man. Those that sell in the True Religion store from $100 to $400 are all at Rice’s for $40 per pair!!

Clothes for a Cause

This Saturday, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure takes place at Bayfront Park in Miami. In conjunction with the foundation, FordCares.com has created a line of clothing called Warrior Gear, to support the cause. I found out about this line recently and to my surprise, 100 percent of all net proceeds are donated to the Susan G. Komen for the cure.

If you’re always searching for a cute little outfit to wear to the gym, the Warrior Gear is a good match. There’s a pink touch to each piece designed for women which includes baby doll shirts, cotton tee’s, zip-hoodies and hats. There’s also a line for men—the warrior logo is implemented in various masculine colors on t-shirts and hoodies. Each piece is unique and prices are very low starting at $5 for a hoodie upwards to $20 for the men’s black long sleeved thermal. These items are perfect for working out in and there’s no better way to help a cause quite like this, while spreading the word while sporting the logo.

La Vie en Rose

I’m definitely a stickler for pink… but what girl isn’t! While browsing the sale racks at our local Nordstroms in Town Center, my eyes couldn’t help but catch this bright pink Velvet Torch v-neck, drawstring dress. It’s perfect to throw over a bathing suit and pairs well with a few chunky bangles and a pair of flats. Even thought it’s no longer available online, you can still walk into Nordstroms and find this cute little number among the sale racks in the Juniors Section.

Available online, but not in the stores, is this Velvet Torch v-neck kimono sleeve dress. Remember my past posting on kimono sleeves being the ‘it’ item for fall fashion? I’ve found another piece sporting this new trend (pictured in jade) and available in mocha, berry, black and jade. It’s only $22.90, down from $78!

Fingers Crossed

I'm going to apologize ahead of time for this blog because I'm posting something that I typically wouldn't think twice about after seeing the price tag. But, because I'm such an optimist, I'm posting this anyway in hopes that we will soon see this fabulous item marked down AT LEAST 80 percent.

Here it goes-- I was in Neiman Marcus today and found this beautiful Dolce & Gabbana Short Belted Trench Coat made of red satin with black buttons. This coat goes great with a pair of black slacks and pumps or pairs very nicely over a short dress. The fabric is stunning and the overall look would make any fashionista die! It's perfect in each and every way except... it's $1,295. Sigh. Maybe we'll see this on sale during Thanksgiving weekend? My fingers are crossed... and yours should be too!

Attention Sale Shoppers!!

Oh my goodness, a sale shoppers dreams have just come true! There’s actually a website that shows what stores in the Wellington Mall are having sales, on which days and how much everything will be. On http://www.findyourgo.com, you can choose from different categories such as Women's Fashions, Kids, Health & Beauty, Electronics, Home, Jewelry & Gifts, Men’s, Athletics and Food. Once you click on whichever category you choose, a listing of sales appear!

Since I’m obsessed with fashion, I of course clicked on ‘Women’s Fashion.’ Here, it says that Abercrombie & Fitch is selling their regularly priced $59.50 shorts for $14.90 and shirts for $12.90. Aldo (one of my favorite shoe stores) has marked down their accessories and is offering an additional 50 percent off, in addition to their fall shoe sale. New York & Company, where I recommend buying professional work attire, has marked down their items on top of their take an extra 60 percent off sale.

I had to see these sale for myself. Low and behold, I walked into Abercrombie & Fitch a few days ago and bought three pairs of shorts and a skirt and each item was under $15. What a deal!

Check Your Local Stores First

So I overheard a girl in one of my classes talking about how she flies to New York City JUST to shop at H&M because it’s 'cheap.' How ridiculous is that? Not only does H&M have an easy to navigate website, but you can make purchases and have them shipped to you. Furthermore, H&M is becoming increasingly more expensive with each passing year.

Don’t get me wrong, I always make time for H&M when I find myself in the city however I’m not one to make a quick trip thousands of miles away JUST to hit up H&M. Forever 21, which is located in Town Center carries almost the same items as H&M and it’s always at least $5 cheaper. Take this plaid skirt for example (link), it’s perfect for a Florida fall and it’s $24.50 at H&M (pictured and paired with yellow pumps and a black cardigan) this same skirt can be found at Forever 21 for $19.50 (pictured).

Bottom line, why travel thousands of miles out of your way to find an outfit that can be found at your local mall?

Keep it Simple

It’s gala season again! And, you know what that means… ball gowns and cocktail dresses are a hot commodity. This year, I’m attending the International Red Cross Ball at Mar-A-Lago, Denim and Diamonds for the American Cancer Society in Wellington and the March of Dimes gala at The Breakers. I’ve attended these same galas for the past two years and through my experiences have found that women who attend never wear the same dress twice. Each party is chalked full of gorgeous, thousands of dollar Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta and Chanel dresses.

Being a college student, it’s difficult to buy three different dresses in the matter of a few months, let alone three designer dresses totaling well over $10,000. If you’re in the same boat as I’m in, I’ve got your solution. Last year, I purchased all of my dresses from Dillard’s and spent roughly $400 on all three. The key is to keep it simple. Dillard’s may have some pretty tacky dresses with sparkles that shed or uneven hems but if you choose simple gowns with solid colors, you’ll fit in perfectly. Once you’ve found your solid colored gown, you must accessorize. I raided my mom’s jewelry box and came across very elegant, vintage pieces that I was able to incorporate into my look. When it came time for the gala, I got many compliments from a number of women wearing designer gowns.

Take this black, Jessica McClintock dress ($180 at Dillards) as an example-- it's solid colored and looks gorgously-elegant with dripping diamond earrings!

Daily Dose of Fashion

According to TJ Maxx, “scientific studies prove getting an amazing deal on fabulous fashion creates the same feeling of elation as the rush of your first skydive and the joy of falling in love.”

When most people think of TJ Maxx, they think “last season’s rejects” or “malfunctioned clothing.” However, I had the pleasure of working with TJ Maxx and their marketing and promotions department this past weekend and to my surprise, most people’s assumptions about this major discount chain are absolutely incorrect. And, I’m here debunk such suppositions. In fact, more than 85 percent of clothing found in TJ Maxx is in season, the remainder isn’t current but it’s definitely not malfunctioned. Designer brands such as Marc Jacobs, Coach, Kenneth Cole and more can be found here. And, if you shop on a Wednesday or a Friday, you’ll be browsing the new shipments!

I was actually in TJ Maxx recently and found a Juicy Couture Tracksuit-- $40 for the top, and $40 for the bottom, as opposed to well over $200 for the two. A wide variety of Juicy Couture bathing suites can also be found here and at very low prices.

So the bottom line is, savings found at TJ Maxx (or any other discount store for that matter) is good for you! My advise to everyone—get your daily dose of fashion and nothing’s better than a sale!

Columbus Day Sale!

Holiday’s are notorious for sales… and so is Macy’s! Combine the two and that makes for a day of super sales—we’re talking 10 to 50 percent off already discounted items.

Because Columbus Day falls on a Monday, Macy’s has decided to extend their Columbus Day Sale this year from Friday, Oct. 5 until Tuesday, Oct. 9. Tons of fabulous designer items, from shoes and jewelry to handbags, dresses, tops and jeans are sporting huge markdowns. I must advise you, however, shopping in the store, as opposed to online, can save you even more! Take this INC International Concepts® Silk Shirtdress, (pictured in Purple Orchid) it’s marked down to $44.62 from $119. Nice deal to come across. But, I happened to have stopped by Macy’s today after my morning workout and found this adorable item marked as $44.62 with an ADDITIONAL 20 percent markdown… and, you don’t have to pay anything for shipping. The greatest part about this little purple number— for fall, purple is the new brown!

Betsey Johnson Sales

Ok, so I’m obsessed with Betsey Johnson shoes, jewelry and handbags. Now that I got that off my chest, I need to tell you something incredibly important. If you’re shopping at the Betsey Johnson boutiques, don’t expect to get any of these items on sale. It’s once in a blue moon that you find a markdown at a Betsey boutique. However, just because Betsey doesn’t markdown, doesn’t mean that department stores can’t! That’s right, you can find Betsey jewelry and shoes on sale at Macy’s (the best place for Betsey Johnson jewelry shopping—especially when all sale items are an additional 40% off, which happens all the time). Just last month, I bought the cutest pair of Betsey pumps (originally $150) for $16.99!

I was in Nordstrom’s at Town Center today and found this Betsey Johnson 'Sweet Romance' Large Oval Stretch Bracelet and couldn’t help but share this cute item with everyone. It's currently on sale for $36.90, down from $75. This bracelet would add a vintage touch to a solid colored white or off-white dress. So elegant!

Take Out Your 2008 Calendar and Save the First Week of May for Some Serious Shopping

When the younger, part-time residents of Palm Beach fly in for the season (October – first week in May, generally) there is one place they have to hit up, Eye of the Needle. This very classy boutique is for the prepster who craves accessory and color. Everything is handpicked and unique. From tank tops to handbags, lingerie, shoes and exceptional gifts for your best girlfriends, Eye of the Needle is the perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind outfits that will leave others asking, “Where did she get that?”

Like most places on the island, Eye of the Needle is completely overpriced. However, I'm here to let you in on a little secret. If you go at the right time, you will end up saving at least 70%. That time happens to be the beginning of May, right after the Kentucky Derby (the Derby is May 3, 2008). I know it’s months away, but Eye of the Needle is definitely something to look forward to—plus, if you start saving now, you can end up walking out with tons of Diane Von Furstenberg, Dolce & Gabbana, Cosabella and more!

Eye of the Needle has also opened stores for Men and girls too. When you shop the sale, make sure to bring your boyfriend so you can both update your wardrobes with the hottest designer names.

Markdown Mania

Talk about discount! Loehmann’s in Boca Raton is the place to be for designer wear at a very discounted price—especially this week. On Tuesday, I went into Loehmann’s thinking I’d have to dig through the racks (my regular practice at this unorganized store) to find something that I liked. To my surprise, a new shipment had just arrived the day before and was out on the floor, in a somewhat organized fashion.

I found Michael Kors items starting at $9.99, Chinese Laundry shoes for $16.99 and Betsey Johnson accessories for $9.99. I was in heaven.

I even found a gorgeous patent leather, Michael Kors satchel for $199.99, down from $398! This beautiful purse is ideal for those traveling within the next few months and can be used as an everyday work or school bag. Gotta love Loehmann’s!

Move Over UGG

They were few and far between last year— simply because girls in Boca seemed to be stomping around in over-sized, Frankenstein-looking UGG Boots! Hopefully, the UGG bug has been squashed and those in Boca have regained their sense of style this season. For Fall 2007-2008, it’s time to jump on the Ankle-Boot Bandwagon! That’s right, stylish, patent leather or suede ankle boots are in full force. These adorable boots aren’t overly overwhelming, like knee-high boots tend to be. Ankle boots are the perfect compliment any outfit.

Because going to the mall may not fit in our daily work and school schedules, online shopping easily can! In fact, it usually takes me between 10 – 15 minutes to find something I like, pay for it and get confirmation of shipment. Easy as pie, and certainly fits into a lunch break. I’m about to share a secret that not many people know about. It’s called www.gojane.com, it’s as cheap as can be and sells quality shoes for a fraction of the price. I found this site while at the library in between classes, browsing for some new ankle boots—when they came, I was so impressed with the quality (for the buck) that I ordered three more pairs.

Take these black ankle boots for instance. They’re $22.99 and come in black, (pictured) brown and pewter. Boots like these in Nordstroms or Neiman Marcus go for $200 and up.

Kimono Dress For Less

During the Fall 2007 preview in New York, Milan and Paris, each designer introduced at least one piece, with one similar component—kimono sleeves. From form-fitting jackets to simple, solid colored dresses, these Origami-inspired kimono sleeves were an essential. Vera Wang, Derek Lam and Lyn Devon are among the many designers leading this trend in women’s wear for Fall 2007.

Lauren Conrad, rookie designer and star of MTV’s reality TV show “The Hills,” has introduced a collection of kimono dresses—perfect for work or a night on the town. In fact, this little number (pictured in burgundy) is not only stylish, it’s also very flattering on almost all body-types. It’s perfect in almost every except… it’s $145. Bummer. What’s a college girl to do?

Upon seeing Lauren Conrad’s new collection and being completely disappointed at the prices, I decided to turn to Forever 21 at the Town Center Mall. No matter what the trend, it seems as though this very economical store carries everything I’m ever looking for. No more than five minutes in the store had passed when I found a dress that was very similar to Lauren Conrad’s Kimono dress. And, it’s price tag? A pocket-smiling $22.80 (pictured in magenta). Good ole’ Forever 21, we can always count on you!

What a Steal!

Just because the winter months are approaching, doesn't mean that those in Florida have to succumbed to wearing over-sized, loosely-fitting down comforters each and everyday! Luckily, short sleeve shirts, mini-dresses and skirts are acceptable almost all year long. The advantage for us Florida girls lies within our ability to shop end of the season blow out sales-- buying super cute, super cheap, designer wear to complete our 'Florida Winter Wardrobe.'

Right now, LF Stores, located in Mizner Park is the place to be. Typically, all items in this store go anywhere from $100 - $800—not so good for the pockets of a college student. But this week, fear no more, everything is marked down 80 percent or more! Those $250 jeans you wanted last month… $48 dollars. And, that adorable Heather Shrake belt (a favorite of singer Rihanna) $18, down from $75! Plus many, many other adorable shirts and skirts, now $14- $28—some with an original price tag of a whopping $178!

Buy of the week:

This sophisticated, cropped satin-looking jacket is perfect to pair with jeans or dress up with a vintage dress. Originally $256, now $38.

View here: http://store.nexternal.com/shared/StoreFront/default.asp?CS=lf&BusType=BtoC&Count1=798031032&Count2=715171456&CategoryID=213&Target=products.asp