Stripes - for Less

STRIPES
Stripes are everywhere right now! I have always had a fear of horizontal stripes because they say that horizontal stripes make you look wider but my love of everything nautical won out!

A great option that you can dress up or even wear to the gym is this Splendid top from Bloomingdale's.  The best part is that it is made in the USA - rare to find nowadays!  The contrast between the black and blue stripes isn't as severe as a top with blue and white stripes (for those with stripeaphobia).

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=515265&CategoryID=20789

Another dressier option from Express (Extra 40% off):

http://www.express.com/crossover-v-neck-long-sweater-35126-43.pro?user_att_name=Interest&Mrsavf=SIZE_NAME&Mrsavf=category&Mrsavf=Color&Mpper=3&Mcat=43&Mpos=60&Mcatg=category_root&Mcatn=Sale&Mcatp=cat_2&user_att_value=Email&Mrsaa=*&Mpg=SEARCH%2BNAV&Mcatpn=For+Her&Mppg=0#jsLink

An even dressier classic silk top, that you can wear with jeans or under a suit for work, from Madewell (extra 25% off):

 http://www.madewell.com/AST/Navigation/Sale/AllProducts/PRDOVR~35233/99102214893/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~0~~20+17+4294966709~15~~~~~~~/35233.jsp

If you are really daring and need to add some volume to your lower half (I have opposite problem) then try this skirt from the Loft (extra 40% off):

http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=31237&N=1200042&viewAll=true&categoryId=3364&Ns=SALE_SEQUENCE_NO&Nr=AND%28CAT_SALE_FLAG%3aY%29&Nty=1&No=45&loc=slp1a&defaultColor=Deep%20Blue&defaultSizeType=Regular

And, remember, if you can't get over the horizontal stripeaphobia, you can always try vertical stripes or a striped accessory (like a scarf).

Noteworthy:
I think this trend has come about because of the new maxi skirt trend - but regardless, I have been seeing some beautiful maxi-dresses that have Grecian-inspired draping (and, no, I don't love this trend because I am Greek).  I am also seeing this draping in skirts and shirts.  MaxStudio.com has some great pieces for reasonable prices.  Here is one of my favorites:

http://www.maxstudio.com/p-tank-29441.aspx


Sales:

• Madewell (online and in stores)- Extra 25% off sale (Code: WHYNOT)
• Ann Taylor (online and in stores) - Extra 40% off purchase (Code: SPRING40)
• Loft (online and in stores) - Extra 40% off purchase (Code: SPRING40)
• Juicy Couture (online and in stores) - Extra 30% off sale (Code: SPRING30)
• Express - Extra 40% off clearance plus take $15 off every $60 (Code:1270)
• Lord & Taylor (online and in stores) - Friends and Family Event - Extra 25% almost everything, 10% off cosmetics and fragrances (Code: FRIENDS)
• AllSaints mid-season sale
• Coach Factory - 30% off purchase
• Juicy Couture Outlet - 30% off purchase

Friends & Family Events

To quote the Roots from their appearance on Yo Gabba Gabba, I Love my Family......my friends and family, that is!

I don't remember seeing so many friends & family coupons in the spring in past years but it seems as if everyone is having an event in March.  So - no picks this week, just tips.  Although a few of the events have already past, some good ones coming up are:

• Bloomingdale's - March 30 - April 3 - 20% off
• Last Call by Neiman Marcus - March 25 - March 28 - 30% off entire purchase (also applies on LastCall.com - use code FRIEND)
• Off Saks - March 23 - March 29 - 30% off entire purchase
•  Lucky Brand (online) -  March 21st -March 23  - 20% off almost everything
• Lord & Taylor - now - March 28 - 20% off (use code SALE)
• Trish McEvoy - 20% off (use code TMSPRING20)
• C & C California (online) sign up and receive 25% off your next order (also, buy more save more, buy 4 items & get 40% off)
• Stila Cosmetics (online) sign up and receive 20% off your next order
• BCBG Outlet - March 24 - March 27 - 20% off your purchase

Also, I just noticed today that they now sell Club Monaco on Shopbop.  First, if you refer a friend to Shopbop.com you get a $25 credit in your account, so why not refer a friend!  Second, if you like Club Monaco you should def check out their store in Queens Center.  It is like a secret outlet because they always have huge sales!  I recently bought a beautiful leather belt there originally almost $100 for $15!

Let me know if there are any I am missing!

I wish I had a catch phrase to put here right now!  I will try and think of one for the next posting!

What I Want Now For Less - Accessories Edition

I think fringe necklaces are going to be big for the spring.  A great one I found at a great price is this Chan Luu necklace from Calypso for under $15 when you use the code FINALSALE311 to get an additional 50% off final sale:

http://www.calypsostbarth.com/Tralala-Necklace-p-17603.html















In fact, I have been seeing a lot of Chan Luu, but more bracelets and scarves than anything else.  I will keep a look-out to see if any of it goes on sale.


In terms of footwear - I am really digging a good pair of biker boots to take me from winter into spring.  These boots from JCrew have a touch of bad-ass but are also toned down.  Plus - I love the gray suede and the low-calf height.  $70 (when you use code) is not bad for a pair of great boots that will take you from now to spring.  Use code SHOPNOW to take an extra 30% off sale.

http://www.jcrew.com/womens_special_sizes/size512shoes/size5/PRDOVR~30485/99102114603/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~0~~20+17+4294966925~15~~~~~~~/30485.jsp

In terms of warmer weather options, I think Grecian sandals are back this season.  Kenneth Cole has a bunch of great pairs for an additional 50% off.  I like the ones below (under $45) because they can be casual or dressy:

http://www.kennethcole.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4044610&cp=3573954.3573966

In terms of bags, I think small cross-body bags will be very popular, and I also think they are very convenient and practical.  The smaller the better because then you carry less stuff!  For $15, the bag below from Kenneth Cole Reaction (also matches sandals above) is adorable and comes in two colors. 

http://www.kennethcole.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4411211&cp=3573954.3573966

Another great bag at a great price and with some great detail is the one below from Kate Spade.  It is big enough to use for work or as a baby carry-all!  Plus, I love the great chain detail on the handle which I think will be very big this season!

http://www.katespade.com/plisse-metallic-priti/PXRU1953,default,pd.html?dwvar_PXRU1953_color=096&start=25&cgid=sale

A good cashmere wrap is a great investment piece!  There is a great one by Lilly Pulitzer on Bloomingdales.com that comes in two great colors (personally, i prefer the green!) for under $140.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=506175&CategoryID=5305

If you are not ready to make such a big investment, Madewell has a great shawl for $15.  However, it doesnt come in bright colors, it is either cream or grey.  The benefit to getting a basic color is that it will match pretty much everything!

http://www.madewell.com/AST/Navigation/Sale/AllProducts/PRDOVR~35061/99102204340/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~20+17+4294967258~90~~~~~~~/35061.jsp

Another easy accessory for the season transition is a great scarf.   If you are looking for some great scarves - a great way to add a burst of color near your face and to introduce different patterns, like floral, stripes or paisley , into your wardrobe - Madewell.com has some great ones on sale for under $20! 

http://www.madewell.com/search/searchNavigation.jsp?eneQuery=Ne%3D1%2B2%2B3%2B22%2B4294967294%2B20%26N%3D20%2B17%2B4294967258%26Nu%3DP_productid&NUM_ITEMS=90&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441760997&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474395181138&bmUID=1299766838287 

Lastly, a girl can never have too many pairs of tights!  I have been seeing a lot of bright colored tights, but I don't think I am ready for that.  I prefer to get a neutral color, brown, grey or black, and pair them with a bright shoe.  I usually get mine at the Gap because I love the quality and when they go on sale they are very affordable!  For $5.00, you wont get mad at your dog if she rips into them!  Nordstrom Rack online also has some good options on sale from DKNY and Spanx.

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=26688&vid=1&pid=776608

As a final thought, if you are looking for a new pair of sunglasses (I'm looking for a pair of cat-eye ones) check out OffSaks.  They have great designer brand sunglasses for under $100!!!

What I Want Now for Spring - For Less

SKIRTS! SKIRTS! SKIRTS!

This weather has me in the mood for spring and I plan on wearing skirts!  Short, knee-length (mid-calf, if I find any) and especially Maxi-length!  Pair a maxi-length skirt with a great fitted top, even a simple tank top, and a great belt.  If you keep the shirt and skirt simple then go for a loud belt! 

Although Calypso is best known for their long bright skirts, these two short skirts are adorable and $15 (check out their Final Sale Section for an extra 50% off Code: FINALSALE112):

http://www.calypsostbarth.com/Wool-Egg-Pleat-Skirt-p-17508.html

For more of a funky weekend skirt from Calypso see below:

http://www.calypsostbarth.com/Ruffle-Skirt-p-17499.html

Here is a white very pretty skirt from JCrew - perfect for spring/summer:

Everyone looks good in blue! This BCBG skirt is adorable and an extra 25% off from LastCall.com:

http://www.lastcall.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod500493&eItemId=prod500493&cmCat=search&searchType=GUIDED&parentId=cat000000&icid=home1a+siloE+Hers&rte=%252Fstore%252Fcatalog%252Ftemplates%252FP4E.jhtml%253FNo%253D24%2526parentId%253Dcat000000%2526itemId%253Dcat000001%2526N%253D4294967142%252B4294966257%2526icid%253Dhome1a%252BsiloE%252BHers


This skirt from the Gap is the perfect length for everyone and can go from work to play and all for under $40!

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=66074&vid=1&pid=785909


Wear this beautiful asymmetrical long skirt from Anthropologie with a fitted top and bold belt:

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=19605468&catId=SHOPSALE-SKIRTS&pushId=SHOPSALE-SKIRTS&popId=SHOPSALE&navAction=top&navCount=54&color=030&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&templateType=E


Or go for a wilder print from Arden B (bonus - includes belt):
 

http://www.ardenb.com/catalog/product.jsp?categoryId=134&subCategoryId=149&productId=43594#ClosePopup

You can also find another great simple long skirt at Express.  I would buy one in each color since they are buy one, get one half off:

http://www.express.com/maxi-skirt-34110-23.pro?user_att_name=Interest&Mrsavf=SIZE_NAME&Mrsavf=category&Mrsavf=Color&Mpper=3&Mcat=23&Mpos=4&Mcatg=category_root&Mcatn=Skirts&Mcatp=cat_2&user_att_value=Email&Mpg=SEARCH%2BNAV&Mrsaa=*&Mcatpn=For+Her&Mppg=0

I am not going to lie, I am very impressed with the selection at the Gap lately! I am planning on stocking up on some of their great cotton tops (to pair with all my skirts)!  Good quality for an even better price!  These tops are all a steal at under $25:

Find some other great tops at http://www.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=17076

Enjoy the President's Day Sales this weekend:

BananaRepublic.com - extra 25% off sale items

JCrew.com - 20% off women's items when you spend $150

Saks.com - Beauty Week

Ann Taylor - Extra 40% off sale items

Express - $15 off when you SPend $75 (Code 1084) + buy one item get one half off

LastCall.com - Extra 25% off entire purchase

Calypso - Extra 50% off final sale

Beat the Winter Blues - For Less

Sorry I have been MIA for a while - but here are the things I want now!


Lace Tops
Very feminine and perfect for Valentine's Day!  A great way to wear lace if you are not in summer shape!  Here is an adorable top from the Nordstrom Rack website:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/free-people-lady-victoria-lace-top/3132186?origin=category&resultback=2837


Belts
Accessories are a great way of revamping you wardrobe.  I have seen a lot of cute belts lately with some great details.  While I love anything with a bow detail, this belt from Anthropologie has the cutest flower details.  Wear it with a basic dress or over a sweater.

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=19603687&catId=SHOPSALE-ACCESSORIES&pushId=SHOPSALE-ACCESSORIES&popId=SHOPSALE&navAction=top&navCount=102&color=020&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&templateType=E


Anything in a bright vibrant color! 
I don't know about you, but I am pretty sick of all this snow - and what a better way to stand out in all this white than in a bright color!  Wear this bright coral dress with tights until is starts getting warmer (plus only $5.00 shipping at Arden B):

http://www.ardenb.com/catalog/product.jsp?categoryId=139&subCategoryId=160&productId=42600

And if you want to tone it down, pair it with this great layering jacket from MaxStudio:

http://www.maxstudio.com/p-ZIPPER_JACKET-377.aspx

Hair Accessories
My new obsession with hair accessories is probably a result of the new post-partum bangs I have developed and cant control.  So, because of my new unexpected hairstyle, I need anything that can pin them back until they grow out!  I like to go to Claire's and get some hair bling, but you can also find stuff at Ricky's stores and even some basic hair clips and headbands at Soap.com (and get 20% off your first purchase).  Another idea is to use a brooch you already have as a hair accessory.  Or wear an obnoxious NFL headband for this Sunday's Superbowl:
http://www.overstock.com/Sports-Toys/Little-Earth-New-York-Giants-FanBand/5219343/product.html

Since we are talking about hair, I am very excited about trying out a sea salt spray for my hair.  I have heard good things about Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Texturizing Spray.  Will let you know how it goes.  Let me know if there is one you are currently using and love!
Bonus:
Here is a great wear-everywhere comfortable sweater at a pretty unbeatable price!!
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/splendid-pepper-fleece-wrap-cardigan/3122994?origin=category&resultback=305

Sales:

• Loft (online): Extra 50% off of sale items.
• Gap: Extra 30% off online and extra 40% off in store
• Banana Republic
• Express: Extra 40% off of clearance items.
• Lord & Taylor: Extra 20% off of clearance.
• Lohmanns: Take an extra 50% off of blue stocker clearance.

Make-Up Freebies:

• Estee Lauder at Neiman Marcus
• Lorac at LoracCosmetics.com
• Lancome at Macy's

What I Want Now - For Less

SUSPENDERS:
The first thing I wanted to mention was that I am looking for a great pair of suspenders.  The only pair I found is this pair from Urban Outfitters for under $10.  I would wear them with a great pair of straight leg trousers and a simple long-sleeve t-shirt.  What do you guys think?

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=19309681a&navAction=jump&navCount=45&parentid=SALE_YARDSALE_LASTCHANCE&relatedstyleid=&itemsadded=l19309681a&pushId=SALE_YARDSALE_LASTCHANCE&popId=SALE&prepushId=&&rollOverMessage=1+BDG+Skinny+Elastic+Suspenders+&_requestid=27784

DRESSES/SHIRTS WITH CUT-OUT BACKS:
I also think that dresses/shirts with cut-outs on the back are going to be big this season.  There is a really cute dress with a great back on Bloomingdales.com.  I like the dress because the front is very simple which let's the back of the dress get all the attention.  (Note: New email subscribers to Bloomingdales.com receive an extra 10% off their first online purchase) http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=507372&cm_mmc=Froogle-_-n-_-n-_-n

5 COATS/JACKETS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE IN HER CLOSET:
What I desperately need right now is a new puffy coat.  My girlfriend Jeana was telling me how she got a great bargain on a new jacket, which got me thinking and noticing that this is the best time to buy a new coat/jacket.  Almost all coats and jackets are on sale right now and there is still a lot of cold weather left.  Plus, if you buy a classic style, it is something you can use for seasons to come.  So, I made a list of the five Coats/Jackets every woman should have in her closet.

1. Puffy/Down Coat: I probably use this coat more than any other in the cold months.  It is comfortable and most importantly very warm.  This one from Lord & Taylor is so cute because it nips at the waist, so you don't lose your shape.  Plus, don't forget the extra 20% off (see code below)!

http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/womensapparel-coldweathershop-forher-Faux_Fur_Trimmed_Hooded_Walking_Coat-lordandtaylor/158053

2. Trench Coat.  Nothing tops a Burberry trench coat - but they are pretty pricey.  I got lucky and found a great one at a great price a few years ago around this time in Bloomingdale's.  I have also heard that the Woodbury Commons outlet will have some great deals sometimes.  If the Burberry trench coat is out of your price range I would recommend getting one in a classic color, but with an interesting lining if you can find it.    http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.aol_refer.false.tpl.detail.msn_refer.false.item.A198839.ref.GBA?cm_ven=GOOGLEBASE&cm_cat=Fashion&cm_pla=Outerwear&cm_ite=A198839
This DKNY trench is a very classic and simple cut and a very good price. 

http://www.overstock.com/Clothing-Shoes/DKNY-Womens-Belted-Rain-Trench-Coat/4379723/product.html?cid=123620&fp=F&mr:trackingCode=FB747235-52C1-DF11-98FF-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA

3. Blazer.  A blazer is a wardrobe staple.  There are so many to chose from.  I would buy one as a part of a suit that you can also wear with jeans.  If you aren't in the market for a suit, this one from Madewell is pretty basic and will go with everything.  Plus, you get an extra 20% off until January 11 (Code: MWCUG7GNB)
http://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/JACKETSCOATS/PRDOVR~30277/99102107389/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~20+17+4294967287~15~~~~~~~/30277.jsp
J.Crew also has some great basic blazers.  Plus, the extra 30% off of sale items is finally here (see code below)!
http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/Sale/AllProducts/PRDOVR~29928/99102113563/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~20+17+4294967088~90~~~~~~~/29928.jsp

4. Jean Jacket.  There is so much to say about a jean jacket.  It is a spring/fall/summer time basic.  And you can even wear it in the winter, under your winter coat, as part of your outfit.  You can even do a denim blazer and kill two birds with one stone.  This one from Banana Republic is an extra 25% off (see code below).

http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=791799002&tid=brfr1r
 
5. Leather Jacket.  When the weather starts getting better you will be surprised at how much you will wear your leather jacket.  I have worn mine to so many different occasions, I have worn it with Jeans and a T-Shirt and even over a formal dress at a wedding.  Some of my top picks include these classic, well-made jackets from AllSaints that are half-off.

http://www.us.allsaints.com/women/leathers/kadian-jacket/taupe/wlh010-75

http://www.us.allsaints.com/women/leathers/kadian-jacket/taupe/wlh010-75


















Another cheaper option is this Laundry jacket from LastCall.com.  It is a great website by Nieman Marcus.
The jacket is on sale, with an extra 40% off and then another 25% off (plus free shipping - see code below).

http://www.lastcall.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtmlitemId=prod1590005&eItemId=prod1590005&cmCat=&searchType=GUIDED&parentId=&icid=src_HERS+OUTERWEAR&rte=%252Fstore%252Fcatalog%252Ftemplates%252FP4E.jhtml%253FNo%253D0%2526parentId%253Dcat000000%2526itemId%253Dcat000001%2526N%253D4294967142%252B4294966997%2526icid%253Dhome1%252BsiloE%252BHers

 Bonus Coat:  If you have room in your closet for one more coat, I would go with something a little trendier and dressier.  This one from French Connection is absolutely adorable and looks even better on and is at a great price.  It is like an updated trendier pea coat (and nautical is always in!)!!!

 http://usa.frenchconnection.com/product/woman+Collections+coats+and+jackets/70AI4/WINTER+SUN+WOOL+COAT.htm

SALES:

• Sephora.com: Free superzied sample of Caudalie's new Premier Cru Eye Cream with any order (Code: PCEYE)
• Piperlime.com: Extra 20% off sale items (Code: ENJOY) (plus free shipping and returns)
• LoracCosmetics.com - Free gift and free shipping with $50.00 purchase Lorac Gift with Purchase, online only, while supplies last.
• Lord & Taylor: Second Take Store Wide Clearance plus take an additional 20% off (exclusions apply) (Code: SAVE)
• Gap.com: Extra 35% off of sale items (Code: GAPSALE35)
• BananaRepublic.com: Extra 25% off entire order (CODE: JANBR25)
• Madewell.com: Extra 20% off entire order (Code: MWCUG7GNB)
• LastCall.com: Extra 25% off entire order (no code necessary) plus free shipping (Code: LCJANFS) 
• JCrew.com: Extra 30% off of sale items (CODE: MUSTHAVE) - stock up on those cashmere sweaters!!!
• Saks.com: Fashion Fix starting at noon today http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/fashionfix.jsp?id=2534374306561444&rremail=dmstroumbos@aol.com&email=dmstroumbos@aol.com&site_refer=EML3181D

Friday, January 7, 2011 Update

I love after-holiday shopping deals!

One of my new favorite brands, AllSaints (based in Europe) has some great bargains right now!  Their look is a very Distressed Trendy-Grunge.  You can shop on their website (free shipping), their store in Soho and they also carry the line in Bloomingdale's.  The deals are all the same, up to 70% off!
http://www.us.allsaints.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=allsaints&utm_campaign=Brand_Exact

One of my favorites is this Adonis Cardigan for $42:

Worthwhile sales going on today:

• Ann Taylor (online and in stores) - Buy one full-priced item, get the second half off (code: PRIVATE)
• Intermix (online and in stores) - Extra 50% off of sale items
• UrbanOutfitters.com has sale items starting at 9.99!

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?itemdescription=true&itemCount=80&startValue=1&selectedProductColor=&sortby=&id=19704568&parentid=SALE_YARDSALE_14&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,+product.marketingPriority&navCount=45&navAction=jump&color=&pushId=SALE_YARDSALE_14&popId=SALE&prepushId=&selectedProductSize=

Outlet Shopping

• Coach Factory Stores - extra 20% off your purchase
• Kate Spade Outlet - Extra 30% to 50% off selected collections and an extra 30% off of jewelery
• BCBG Outlet - extra 50% off almost all apparel until January 9th (I bought some great tops, dresses, pants and even a wear-anywhere with anything denim blazer for under $20 each piece)  Some of the best deals you will find!  Check out the $39 and $19 racks that are an additional 50% off!