Shopping for your boyfriend
MW complains that I only have stuff for chicks on my blog. Um, with the exception of MW, I'm guessing most of my readers are ladies anyway, but if you want more stuff for dudes, e-mail me, and I'll start including it. In the interest of service journalism, however, here are some gift ideas for your boyfriend.
For the metrosexual: Seven jeans. Like the ladies' version, they do wonders for your butt. (Also available online at eLuxury.)
For the Justin Timberlake wannabe: James Perse Eagle Beanie, which, I think, is actually a cool hat.
For the gadget freak: Neiman Marcus has a whole section of high-tech and sports-related gifts, including this teeny digital camera.
For the traveling guy: Jack Spade laptop bag--not that I'm endorsing Kate Spade products after the debacle of Sunday afternoon, but you can't go wrong with a classic yet funky bag like this one.
For the hipster: Urban Outfitters has a mind-boggling selection of ironic T-shirts (I can't link to them directly, sorry).
For the reluctant metrosexual: Brave Soldier Jet Set. Brave Soldier? Can we get more manly?
For the connoisseur: California Party Wine pack, and maybe he'll let you drink it with him.
For the rock star: Boss Hugo Boss Dragon Crewneck (a portion of the proceeds benefit Vh1's Save the Music Foundation).
For the guy whose wallet is bulging all over the place (pretty much any guy, really): Roadster wallet--stylish, affordable, and genuine leather.
For the kid at heart: motorized scooter. Why the hell not?
For the Mod guy: Ben Sherman Wakeman Print shirt, or any other Ben Sherman shirt, for that matter.
For the handy guy: Hummer Multi-Tool, and now he'll have no excuse not to fix stuff around your apartment.
For the Wall-Streeter (who you love a lot): Tiffany Bull and Bear Cufflinks, and pray for a bull market.
For the guy you've been dating for a month, so you're not really sure whether or not you should get him a Christmas present: Loop refrigerator magnets in hip-hop, low rider, or mod, are a very non-committal $13.
Tidbits
LVMH wonderland eLuxury is having a sale of 30%-40% off. My beloved Marc Jacobs fleece-lined lace-up boots are included, however they don't have them in brown. Oh well. Christmas is coming and I probably shouldn't be buying myself $400 boots anyway. Also, spend $100 and get free shipping when you enter the code SLED at checkout.
Language's Thanksgiving sale is still going on. Enter code THANKSGIVING at checkout for an extra 10% off.
Tomorrow is sale preview day at Loehmann's. Take 25%, plus an extra 10% off sale merchandise. This weekend, they're having three-hour specials from 8-11 a.m. Friday and 9 a.m-noon on Saturday, when you can take an extra 20% off everything in the store.
If you're still into logomania, check out City Moda for Prada, Gucci, Fendi, and others, at a discount. Enter code MODAF3D at checkout and get upgraded to UPS three-day shipping.
Starting Friday (aka, Shopping Day), BCBG stores have items for up to 50% off.
Arden B has free ground shipping until January 4.
Get a free 4.5 oz. deluxe sample of Philosophy Pumpkin Pie when you enter code PUMPKIN at checkout at Sephora.com.
LVMH wonderland eLuxury is having a sale of 30%-40% off. My beloved Marc Jacobs fleece-lined lace-up boots are included, however they don't have them in brown. Oh well. Christmas is coming and I probably shouldn't be buying myself $400 boots anyway. Also, spend $100 and get free shipping when you enter the code SLED at checkout.
Language's Thanksgiving sale is still going on. Enter code THANKSGIVING at checkout for an extra 10% off.
Tomorrow is sale preview day at Loehmann's. Take 25%, plus an extra 10% off sale merchandise. This weekend, they're having three-hour specials from 8-11 a.m. Friday and 9 a.m-noon on Saturday, when you can take an extra 20% off everything in the store.
If you're still into logomania, check out City Moda for Prada, Gucci, Fendi, and others, at a discount. Enter code MODAF3D at checkout and get upgraded to UPS three-day shipping.
Starting Friday (aka, Shopping Day), BCBG stores have items for up to 50% off.
Arden B has free ground shipping until January 4.
Get a free 4.5 oz. deluxe sample of Philosophy Pumpkin Pie when you enter code PUMPKIN at checkout at Sephora.com.
In the papers
Probably not as entertaining as Pat Kiernan's daily version on NY1, but...
The style reporters at the Post have been writing some really interesting stories lately. Yesterday, they had expert staffers from Madame Paulette's examine a variety of little black dresses and estimate the price based on the quality of the garment. Most of their guesses were within $10 of the actual price, but the big surprise? They thought a $30 H&M dress cost $250, proving that H&M uses the best overseas sweatshops. Also in the Post: My favorite swimsuit and party dress designer, Shoshanna, takes a spin at Shopaholic; colorful stripes are fun!; a lot of wraps (but no pictures); and luxury is selling this year.
Even though the Post did an article on sample sales last week, the Times has one in today's paper, although the spin is more about the psychological and economical ramifications of sample sale-ing. The Times, God bless 'em, also has a list of sales, including a Dolce & Gabbana sale tomorow! Woo-hoo! Also, the new Bluefly store (second item).
Probably not as entertaining as Pat Kiernan's daily version on NY1, but...
The style reporters at the Post have been writing some really interesting stories lately. Yesterday, they had expert staffers from Madame Paulette's examine a variety of little black dresses and estimate the price based on the quality of the garment. Most of their guesses were within $10 of the actual price, but the big surprise? They thought a $30 H&M dress cost $250, proving that H&M uses the best overseas sweatshops. Also in the Post: My favorite swimsuit and party dress designer, Shoshanna, takes a spin at Shopaholic; colorful stripes are fun!; a lot of wraps (but no pictures); and luxury is selling this year.
Even though the Post did an article on sample sales last week, the Times has one in today's paper, although the spin is more about the psychological and economical ramifications of sample sale-ing. The Times, God bless 'em, also has a list of sales, including a Dolce & Gabbana sale tomorow! Woo-hoo! Also, the new Bluefly store (second item).
Monday, November 24, 2003
A rant
Before I go, I thought I'd complain for a bit. Yesterday I decided to check out the Kate Spade sample sale. I thought, "Oh, it's a Sunday, it won't be crowded." Wrong! I waited in line for almost two and a half hours to get in, which is probably why I'm so sick today. I will say there was still a ton of merchandise, however, the line to check out wound around the entire perimeter of the Metropolitan Pavillion (which must be at least 5,000 square feet), and I figured it would take at least another two and a half hours to get out. So I left, and the security guards seemed to think I was crazy for not buying anything. Maybe I was, but I decided to cut my losses at three hours instead of five or six.
My advice? Go to this sale only if you're a tried and true Kate Spade devotee. Or if you have five hours to kill.
Before I go, I thought I'd complain for a bit. Yesterday I decided to check out the Kate Spade sample sale. I thought, "Oh, it's a Sunday, it won't be crowded." Wrong! I waited in line for almost two and a half hours to get in, which is probably why I'm so sick today. I will say there was still a ton of merchandise, however, the line to check out wound around the entire perimeter of the Metropolitan Pavillion (which must be at least 5,000 square feet), and I figured it would take at least another two and a half hours to get out. So I left, and the security guards seemed to think I was crazy for not buying anything. Maybe I was, but I decided to cut my losses at three hours instead of five or six.
My advice? Go to this sale only if you're a tried and true Kate Spade devotee. Or if you have five hours to kill.
Limited posting this week
1) There are zippo sales this week (well, at least until the Shopping Day--i.e., the day after Thanksgiving--sales kick in on Friday).
2) Today I am at home, sick. Hopefully it's just a cold and I'll be back to work tomorrow. Still, today I think I'd rather sleep and watch dumb TV than sit in front of my computer all day--no offense to you, my dear readers.
3) Wednesday I leave for my mini-Thanksgiving vacation. I will be at my parents' house (complete with super-speedy DSL line), so, again, my postings will be limited.
But,
4) If I'm feeling better tomorrow, I'll post some shopping ideas for the guy in your life. I'll also work on moms, dads, siblings, etc. So stay tuned!
1) There are zippo sales this week (well, at least until the Shopping Day--i.e., the day after Thanksgiving--sales kick in on Friday).
2) Today I am at home, sick. Hopefully it's just a cold and I'll be back to work tomorrow. Still, today I think I'd rather sleep and watch dumb TV than sit in front of my computer all day--no offense to you, my dear readers.
3) Wednesday I leave for my mini-Thanksgiving vacation. I will be at my parents' house (complete with super-speedy DSL line), so, again, my postings will be limited.
But,
4) If I'm feeling better tomorrow, I'll post some shopping ideas for the guy in your life. I'll also work on moms, dads, siblings, etc. So stay tuned!
Friday, November 21, 2003
Weekend shopping
Get out your claws, brides-to-be--it's the Vera Wang Bridal Collection sale. Get there early and bring a whistle like Monica does in that one episode of Friends when she takes Rachel and Phoebe to the bridal sale and fights over a dress with that mean lady. Expect to tussle over dresses, headpieces, veils, and shoes at 75% off. Yikes, that almost makes me want to get married! (Don't worry, MW.) 11/22; 8-5; Penn Plaza Pavilion, 401 7th Avenue (32nd and 33rd Sts.).
Yeah, Kate Spade is kind of boring in a Waspy sort of way, but she's also very classic and, at times, kitschy. Get her bags, paper, pajamas, luggage, and Jack Spade collection (for the fellas) at wholesale. 11/23-11/25; Sunday 2-6, Monday 9-7, Tuesday 9-6; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th (6th and 7th Aves.), ground floor.
Don't forget, the Steven Allen, Kieselstein-Cord, and Alice Roi sales are still going through tomorrow. Also, a girl in my design class said that Bloomingdale's is having a good sale. Since the lovely Jenny sent me a Friends & Family 20%-off coupon (thanks, Jenny!), I'll be checking it out.
Have a good weekend, everyone!
Get out your claws, brides-to-be--it's the Vera Wang Bridal Collection sale. Get there early and bring a whistle like Monica does in that one episode of Friends when she takes Rachel and Phoebe to the bridal sale and fights over a dress with that mean lady. Expect to tussle over dresses, headpieces, veils, and shoes at 75% off. Yikes, that almost makes me want to get married! (Don't worry, MW.) 11/22; 8-5; Penn Plaza Pavilion, 401 7th Avenue (32nd and 33rd Sts.).
Yeah, Kate Spade is kind of boring in a Waspy sort of way, but she's also very classic and, at times, kitschy. Get her bags, paper, pajamas, luggage, and Jack Spade collection (for the fellas) at wholesale. 11/23-11/25; Sunday 2-6, Monday 9-7, Tuesday 9-6; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th (6th and 7th Aves.), ground floor.
Don't forget, the Steven Allen, Kieselstein-Cord, and Alice Roi sales are still going through tomorrow. Also, a girl in my design class said that Bloomingdale's is having a good sale. Since the lovely Jenny sent me a Friends & Family 20%-off coupon (thanks, Jenny!), I'll be checking it out.
Have a good weekend, everyone!
Three is a magic number
There are three excellent store openings tomorrow. What did I do to deserve such bountiful gifts?
The Container Store is finally coming to Manhattan, with a huge store across the street from Bed Bath & Beyond, on Sixth Avenue between 18th and 19th Streets. They'll be giving away prizes every hour, including $1,000 Elfa dream-closet makeovers and hotel stays at the W Union Square and the Giraffe Hotel. Plus, 10% of opening-weekend sales will be donated to DIFFA.
Designer bargain wonderland Bluefly is opening a physical, brick-and-mortar store at 43 W. 24th St. (5th and 6th Aves.). Hooray! The merchandise will be similar to what's offered on the website. Hours are 11-8 Tuesday through Friday and noon-6 Saturday and Sunday. Half-price Prada, here I come!
After you've bought your organizational supplies and designer clothes, head out to Dumbo for the West Elm store opening at 75 Front St. (at Main). Act like a diva and with a dramatic flourish, say, "I'll take it all!"
There are three excellent store openings tomorrow. What did I do to deserve such bountiful gifts?
The Container Store is finally coming to Manhattan, with a huge store across the street from Bed Bath & Beyond, on Sixth Avenue between 18th and 19th Streets. They'll be giving away prizes every hour, including $1,000 Elfa dream-closet makeovers and hotel stays at the W Union Square and the Giraffe Hotel. Plus, 10% of opening-weekend sales will be donated to DIFFA.
Designer bargain wonderland Bluefly is opening a physical, brick-and-mortar store at 43 W. 24th St. (5th and 6th Aves.). Hooray! The merchandise will be similar to what's offered on the website. Hours are 11-8 Tuesday through Friday and noon-6 Saturday and Sunday. Half-price Prada, here I come!
After you've bought your organizational supplies and designer clothes, head out to Dumbo for the West Elm store opening at 75 Front St. (at Main). Act like a diva and with a dramatic flourish, say, "I'll take it all!"
Thursday, November 20, 2003
Tidbits
Loehmann's has Robert Lee Morris 14K gold and sterling silver jewelry, originally $995-$11,111, for $172-$1,879.
Crazy dutch company Oilily is having a fall sale of 30%-50% off, starting today. I used to get my party dresses here when I was a kid, and while they now have women's clothes, the kids' stuff is still the cutest. You can't shop online, but you can preview the collection, then go to their store at 820 Madison Ave.
Polo.com is having a sale of up to 50% off, plus free shipping when you spend $125 or more.
Bluefly misses me, apparently. Do they miss you? Enter MISSEDYOU987 at checkout and get 15% off through 11/29.
Loehmann's has Robert Lee Morris 14K gold and sterling silver jewelry, originally $995-$11,111, for $172-$1,879.
Crazy dutch company Oilily is having a fall sale of 30%-50% off, starting today. I used to get my party dresses here when I was a kid, and while they now have women's clothes, the kids' stuff is still the cutest. You can't shop online, but you can preview the collection, then go to their store at 820 Madison Ave.
Polo.com is having a sale of up to 50% off, plus free shipping when you spend $125 or more.
Bluefly misses me, apparently. Do they miss you? Enter MISSEDYOU987 at checkout and get 15% off through 11/29.
In other undergarment news
The Daily News has a 1400-word story on thong backlash. I don't think this is "news," really, since there have always been girls who find thongs uncomfortable, gross, etc. Although one-sided (the reporter appears not to have interviewed any pro-thong sources) the story does make several good points, which I shall interpret:
1) Unless you're trying to seduce Bill Clinton, do not let your thong peek out of your pants.
2) Do not wear a thong if you have butt cellulite that will be visible (e.g., if you're wearing a tight, light-colored bottom). In this case, visible panty lines are preferred.
3) If you hate thongs, shut the fuck up and buy some boyshorts. Or go commando.
The Daily News has a 1400-word story on thong backlash. I don't think this is "news," really, since there have always been girls who find thongs uncomfortable, gross, etc. Although one-sided (the reporter appears not to have interviewed any pro-thong sources) the story does make several good points, which I shall interpret:
1) Unless you're trying to seduce Bill Clinton, do not let your thong peek out of your pants.
2) Do not wear a thong if you have butt cellulite that will be visible (e.g., if you're wearing a tight, light-colored bottom). In this case, visible panty lines are preferred.
3) If you hate thongs, shut the fuck up and buy some boyshorts. Or go commando.
Heaven must be missing an angel...
...because God knows there were way too many of them on the runway (and in the air) at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Yes, I watched it. My comments:
*Enough with the angels. Remember when Victoria's Secret had the faux-British theme? That was so much classier, and wittier, considering the allusion to Queen Victoria, who was even more of a prude than Queen Elizabeth. I digress. Sending models down the runway with eight-foot feathered wings extending behind them does not make them look like sexy angels; it makes them look like Vegas showgirls.
*What was up with the Batman theme song running throughout?
*My favorite part of the show: Sting "dressing" Giselle and grabbing her ass. Good thing Giselle is such a good sport.
*Also, did anyone notice Sting was wearing a muumuu-like dress? Is this a Tantric thing? Still, he doesn't hold a candle to Vin Diesel in a skirt.
*I also loved the gay Eurotrash dressers backstage.
*God bless Naomi Cambpell, the only Supermodel who still does runway on a fairly regular basis. Just seeing her makes my face light up.
*Ah, the models. What do you need to wear a bra? Breasts! So, we have Giselle, Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks (more on her in a minute), even Liya Kebede. Great. But Jacquetta Wheeler? And Carmen Kass? I had bigger boobs than theirs when I was eight. Were they there for fashion-industry cred? Were they the butt girls? Now, before all the A-cups out there knock me (with all due respect, I would die to go one day without a bra), let's look at the big picture: How are you going to sell a bra if there are no boobs in it? Look at the catalogue--it's all busty chicks. You're an average B-cup; you see Giselle in the Dream Angels demi-cup whatever with cleavage up to her neck; you think, "maybe i can have cleavage up to my neck, too;" and you shell out $40. So, again, you're an average B-cup; you see 105-pounder Jacquetta strutting down the runway with zippo boobage. Do you buy the bra she's wearing? Hell, no! See?
*More on breasts: Wondering how some of those models got implant-like globes? Toupee tape and what stylists refer to as "chicken cutlets," otherwise known as huge silicone boobs that you stick in your bra (and, yes, they bear an uncanny resemblance to chicken cutlets). Check them out here.
*Poor Tyra Banks, the model whose body is probably the closest to the average American woman's (although, again, she's still a model and she's like six feet tall and gorgeous). They gave Tyra all of the "big butt" outfits--there was always a skirt or wrap of some sort disguising her derriere.
*All in all, I'd estimate that there was only about 15 minutes of actual runway time, much like a real fashion show. Did we really need the awful Sting/Mary J. Blige duet and the "backstage cam" that, incredibly, didn't show the models smoking and swilling champagne?
*Still, all of this bitching and you can bet your bippy I'll watch it again next year.
...because God knows there were way too many of them on the runway (and in the air) at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Yes, I watched it. My comments:
*Enough with the angels. Remember when Victoria's Secret had the faux-British theme? That was so much classier, and wittier, considering the allusion to Queen Victoria, who was even more of a prude than Queen Elizabeth. I digress. Sending models down the runway with eight-foot feathered wings extending behind them does not make them look like sexy angels; it makes them look like Vegas showgirls.
*What was up with the Batman theme song running throughout?
*My favorite part of the show: Sting "dressing" Giselle and grabbing her ass. Good thing Giselle is such a good sport.
*Also, did anyone notice Sting was wearing a muumuu-like dress? Is this a Tantric thing? Still, he doesn't hold a candle to Vin Diesel in a skirt.
*I also loved the gay Eurotrash dressers backstage.
*God bless Naomi Cambpell, the only Supermodel who still does runway on a fairly regular basis. Just seeing her makes my face light up.
*Ah, the models. What do you need to wear a bra? Breasts! So, we have Giselle, Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks (more on her in a minute), even Liya Kebede. Great. But Jacquetta Wheeler? And Carmen Kass? I had bigger boobs than theirs when I was eight. Were they there for fashion-industry cred? Were they the butt girls? Now, before all the A-cups out there knock me (with all due respect, I would die to go one day without a bra), let's look at the big picture: How are you going to sell a bra if there are no boobs in it? Look at the catalogue--it's all busty chicks. You're an average B-cup; you see Giselle in the Dream Angels demi-cup whatever with cleavage up to her neck; you think, "maybe i can have cleavage up to my neck, too;" and you shell out $40. So, again, you're an average B-cup; you see 105-pounder Jacquetta strutting down the runway with zippo boobage. Do you buy the bra she's wearing? Hell, no! See?
*More on breasts: Wondering how some of those models got implant-like globes? Toupee tape and what stylists refer to as "chicken cutlets," otherwise known as huge silicone boobs that you stick in your bra (and, yes, they bear an uncanny resemblance to chicken cutlets). Check them out here.
*Poor Tyra Banks, the model whose body is probably the closest to the average American woman's (although, again, she's still a model and she's like six feet tall and gorgeous). They gave Tyra all of the "big butt" outfits--there was always a skirt or wrap of some sort disguising her derriere.
*All in all, I'd estimate that there was only about 15 minutes of actual runway time, much like a real fashion show. Did we really need the awful Sting/Mary J. Blige duet and the "backstage cam" that, incredibly, didn't show the models smoking and swilling champagne?
*Still, all of this bitching and you can bet your bippy I'll watch it again next year.
Anything you wear can and will be used against you
In this week's E! Fashion Police (sorry, I'm a day late): Why don't I have a body like Halle Berry's? She looks good even in orange. I can't say the same for Britney Spears: Hey, Britney, lose the hats. Sarah Jessica Parker, however, is fabulous as usual; it looks like Penelope Cruz is wearing some sort of back harness (does she have scoliosis?); Sandra Bullock channels ancient Egypt, to semi-disastrous results; and Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis go for a matching '20s gangster-and-moll look, which, although E! knocks, I think works for them.
In this week's E! Fashion Police (sorry, I'm a day late): Why don't I have a body like Halle Berry's? She looks good even in orange. I can't say the same for Britney Spears: Hey, Britney, lose the hats. Sarah Jessica Parker, however, is fabulous as usual; it looks like Penelope Cruz is wearing some sort of back harness (does she have scoliosis?); Sandra Bullock channels ancient Egypt, to semi-disastrous results; and Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis go for a matching '20s gangster-and-moll look, which, although E! knocks, I think works for them.
Wednesday, November 19, 2003
Oh no you dih-n't
In a "Ding-dong, the witch is dead" reverie, The Village Voice's Lynn Yaeger hits Chinatown to scope the Gucci knockoffs, then Century 21 for the real thing, discounted. I love Lynn Yaeger and think she's refreshingly outspoken, but her main criticism of Tom Ford seems to be that his clothes are made for skinny women in stillettos. Um, almost all designer clothing is made for skinny women, or at least is designed with a skinny woman in mind. (The sad fact you're taught in design school is that clothing looks best hanging off of a six-foot, 110-pound model.) So if you're gonna criticize one, you gotta criticize them all, Lynn.
In a "Ding-dong, the witch is dead" reverie, The Village Voice's Lynn Yaeger hits Chinatown to scope the Gucci knockoffs, then Century 21 for the real thing, discounted. I love Lynn Yaeger and think she's refreshingly outspoken, but her main criticism of Tom Ford seems to be that his clothes are made for skinny women in stillettos. Um, almost all designer clothing is made for skinny women, or at least is designed with a skinny woman in mind. (The sad fact you're taught in design school is that clothing looks best hanging off of a six-foot, 110-pound model.) So if you're gonna criticize one, you gotta criticize them all, Lynn.
Camp for beginners
In this week's Observer, the ever-cheeky Simon Doonan tells us how to achieve Gracious Living. Think Joan Crawford.
In this week's Observer, the ever-cheeky Simon Doonan tells us how to achieve Gracious Living. Think Joan Crawford.
Tits and ass will change your life
Get ready for some jigglin': The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is on CBS tonight at 10 p.m. Beforehand, watch 60 Minutes II at 8 p.m. They're doing a story on my boss, Felix Dennis, and I might be on TV! (Well, I at least had the camera up my nose on several occasions while I was blabbering away at a staff meeting.)
Get ready for some jigglin': The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is on CBS tonight at 10 p.m. Beforehand, watch 60 Minutes II at 8 p.m. They're doing a story on my boss, Felix Dennis, and I might be on TV! (Well, I at least had the camera up my nose on several occasions while I was blabbering away at a staff meeting.)
In other blogs...
Daily Candy has an '80s trend that I can actually stomach: Bianca White's metallic tote, reportedly carried by the likes of Britney Spears and Cameron Diaz. They're available at Intuition, an L.A. boutique.
New York Magazine's Best Bets Daily has neon-colored, mod votive candle holders (they're great if your home is more more Kartell than Anthropologie), from Garnett Hill. Price: an amazingly cheap $24 for a set of four.
Hint's Shop Tart column has Adidas cleats (great for traction in slippery weather), mysterious new store Nom de Guerre (640 Broadway), and more.
Style.com has editors' spring accessories picks: more clutches (die, clutches, die!) and the return of the clunky heel. My reaction? A big, resounding yuck (with the exception of the Prada bag, the Louis Vuitton bag, and the Viktor & Rolf shoe). Clutches are not practical, and clunky heels make for clunky legs, especially if you have chunky legs to begin with. Continuing with the ugly theme, Candy Pratts Price picks gold shoes for the holidays. Since when did Christian Louboutin start making platforms that rival Steve Madden's?
Yesterday's MUG has umbrellas: ShedRain and GustBuster are city-wind-and-rain-resistant, and for presumably the city's best umbrella selection, check out Rain or Shine, 18 W. 55th (5th and 6th Aves.). An umbrella store? As Cindy Adams would say: Only in New York, kids, only in New York.
Daily Candy has an '80s trend that I can actually stomach: Bianca White's metallic tote, reportedly carried by the likes of Britney Spears and Cameron Diaz. They're available at Intuition, an L.A. boutique.
New York Magazine's Best Bets Daily has neon-colored, mod votive candle holders (they're great if your home is more more Kartell than Anthropologie), from Garnett Hill. Price: an amazingly cheap $24 for a set of four.
Hint's Shop Tart column has Adidas cleats (great for traction in slippery weather), mysterious new store Nom de Guerre (640 Broadway), and more.
Style.com has editors' spring accessories picks: more clutches (die, clutches, die!) and the return of the clunky heel. My reaction? A big, resounding yuck (with the exception of the Prada bag, the Louis Vuitton bag, and the Viktor & Rolf shoe). Clutches are not practical, and clunky heels make for clunky legs, especially if you have chunky legs to begin with. Continuing with the ugly theme, Candy Pratts Price picks gold shoes for the holidays. Since when did Christian Louboutin start making platforms that rival Steve Madden's?
Yesterday's MUG has umbrellas: ShedRain and GustBuster are city-wind-and-rain-resistant, and for presumably the city's best umbrella selection, check out Rain or Shine, 18 W. 55th (5th and 6th Aves.). An umbrella store? As Cindy Adams would say: Only in New York, kids, only in New York.
Tuesday, November 18, 2003
Assorted holiday shopping tidbits
I'm starting to get tired of holiday shopping e-mails and it isn't even Thanksgiving yet. Still, here's what's out there:
Can you fit anything in this Marc Jacobs key pouch? Probably not. But it's $95 and it's damn cute.
If you're not a big fan of clutches but still feel the need to carry one since everyone else is doing it, check out this Ferragamo clutch, a veritable bargain at $110.
For a truly indlugent purchase, the Prada Lip Tint Set is $65, which is a lot, considering you're getting basically six samples and a pouch that you can't really do anything with.
The above gifts can be purchased at Saks.com. If you spend $100 or more, get free shipping by entering the code FREESHIP3 at checkout.
I can't link to specific items on the Barneys website, but if you go to "Holiday Catalog," then "Other Fun Stuff," there are some great cashmere pillows that say "Lucky," "Snob," or "Chic" for $125 (although why is "Chic" brown and orange? Hello, Cleveland Browns!). For the Chosen People, there's a modern $98 menorah with crazy $28 candles. And that's about all that's affordable at Barneys.
Crate and Barrel has a Holiday page with links for Christmas, Hanukah, and Thanksgiving. I like the red-striped bowls, the twist double old-fashioned (with generous capacity), and the sequins placemats. My mom would probably like the snow deer dessert plate. In fact, if your mom is semi-cheesy like mine, this is probably a great place to look for Christmas gifts for her.
Net-a-Porter has a nifty new "Tell Santa" feature. Click on the item you want, such as this Rick Owens wrap cardigan, then click on "Tell Santa", and you can e-mail the link to Santa, your boyfriend, your sugar daddy, or whomever else you think will shell out $1100 for it. By the way, does anyone happen to have Santa's e-mail address?
Click here to preview Bluefly's holiday gift guide (it goes public on November 19). It's a lot of gloves and scarves, with some nice Italian leather accessories thrown in.
Coming next week: Gifts for boys.
I'm starting to get tired of holiday shopping e-mails and it isn't even Thanksgiving yet. Still, here's what's out there:
Can you fit anything in this Marc Jacobs key pouch? Probably not. But it's $95 and it's damn cute.
If you're not a big fan of clutches but still feel the need to carry one since everyone else is doing it, check out this Ferragamo clutch, a veritable bargain at $110.
For a truly indlugent purchase, the Prada Lip Tint Set is $65, which is a lot, considering you're getting basically six samples and a pouch that you can't really do anything with.
The above gifts can be purchased at Saks.com. If you spend $100 or more, get free shipping by entering the code FREESHIP3 at checkout.
I can't link to specific items on the Barneys website, but if you go to "Holiday Catalog," then "Other Fun Stuff," there are some great cashmere pillows that say "Lucky," "Snob," or "Chic" for $125 (although why is "Chic" brown and orange? Hello, Cleveland Browns!). For the Chosen People, there's a modern $98 menorah with crazy $28 candles. And that's about all that's affordable at Barneys.
Crate and Barrel has a Holiday page with links for Christmas, Hanukah, and Thanksgiving. I like the red-striped bowls, the twist double old-fashioned (with generous capacity), and the sequins placemats. My mom would probably like the snow deer dessert plate. In fact, if your mom is semi-cheesy like mine, this is probably a great place to look for Christmas gifts for her.
Net-a-Porter has a nifty new "Tell Santa" feature. Click on the item you want, such as this Rick Owens wrap cardigan, then click on "Tell Santa", and you can e-mail the link to Santa, your boyfriend, your sugar daddy, or whomever else you think will shell out $1100 for it. By the way, does anyone happen to have Santa's e-mail address?
Click here to preview Bluefly's holiday gift guide (it goes public on November 19). It's a lot of gloves and scarves, with some nice Italian leather accessories thrown in.
Coming next week: Gifts for boys.
Stuff and nonsense indeed
In today's Times, David Brooks discovers Lucky and makes some strange comparisons to de Toqueville and democracy that I don't quite understand. In the fashion department, where you don't have to think so hard, Guy Trebay examines the relationship between fashion and social consciousness.
In today's Times, David Brooks discovers Lucky and makes some strange comparisons to de Toqueville and democracy that I don't quite understand. In the fashion department, where you don't have to think so hard, Guy Trebay examines the relationship between fashion and social consciousness.
Even more sample sales
This sounds too good to be true, but the so-called Multidesigner Sample Sale has clothing, shoes, and accessories from YaYa, Three Dots, Michelle Mason, Frou, Hardtail, Seven, Frankie B., and others, below wholesale. 11/18-11/21; 10-7; 230 W. 39th St. (7th and 8th Aves.), 7th floor.
Barry Kieselstein-Cord's handbags, jewelry, and accessories--all coveted by ladies who lunch--are $80 to $900. 11/20-11/22; weekdays 10-6:30, Saturday 10-4; 20 W. 57th St. (5th and 6th Aves.), 6th floor.
For the boys: Hugo Boss suits, sport coats, trousers, sportswear, and golf gear are wholesale and below. 11/17-11/21; Monday-Thursday 9-6:30, Friday 9-5; 560 7th Ave. (40th and 41st Sts.), 2nd floor.
Aubade, maker of girly French lingerie, has bras for $20 (were $79-$99) and panties for $15 (were $55-$85). Cash and checks only. 11/19-11/21; Wednesday and Thursday 11-8, Friday 11-6; 40 E. 34th St. (Park and Madison Aves.), suite 607.
While you're in the same building, check out the ultra-fancy Simone Perele sale. Bras are $25; panties are $15 (cash only, yet again). 11/19-11/21; 10-5; 40 E. 34th St. (Park and Madison Aves.), suite 1107.
The Wrights has leather skirts and jackets for $200-$300 (were $600-$850) and knits for $60-$120 (were $220-$350). Cash only. 11/19-11/21; 10-7; 110 W. 40th St. (Broadway and 6th Ave.), suite 1002.
Satya's "yoga-inspired" jewelry, found at Anthropologie, J. Jill, and other stores, is up to 70% off, starting at $10. Cash only. 11/21-11/22, 11-8; 330 Bleecker St. (at Christopher St.).
Another for the guys: Britain's Ben Sherman and Japan's Evisu Genes are having a joint sale. Ben Sherman items are $10-$100; Evisu items are $45-$100. All sizes are available. 11/20-11/26; Thursday and Tuesday 10-7, Monday and Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-4, closed Sunday; 261 W.36th St., (7th and 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Believe it or not, there are even more sales starting this weekend. Check back Friday for details.
This sounds too good to be true, but the so-called Multidesigner Sample Sale has clothing, shoes, and accessories from YaYa, Three Dots, Michelle Mason, Frou, Hardtail, Seven, Frankie B., and others, below wholesale. 11/18-11/21; 10-7; 230 W. 39th St. (7th and 8th Aves.), 7th floor.
Barry Kieselstein-Cord's handbags, jewelry, and accessories--all coveted by ladies who lunch--are $80 to $900. 11/20-11/22; weekdays 10-6:30, Saturday 10-4; 20 W. 57th St. (5th and 6th Aves.), 6th floor.
For the boys: Hugo Boss suits, sport coats, trousers, sportswear, and golf gear are wholesale and below. 11/17-11/21; Monday-Thursday 9-6:30, Friday 9-5; 560 7th Ave. (40th and 41st Sts.), 2nd floor.
Aubade, maker of girly French lingerie, has bras for $20 (were $79-$99) and panties for $15 (were $55-$85). Cash and checks only. 11/19-11/21; Wednesday and Thursday 11-8, Friday 11-6; 40 E. 34th St. (Park and Madison Aves.), suite 607.
While you're in the same building, check out the ultra-fancy Simone Perele sale. Bras are $25; panties are $15 (cash only, yet again). 11/19-11/21; 10-5; 40 E. 34th St. (Park and Madison Aves.), suite 1107.
The Wrights has leather skirts and jackets for $200-$300 (were $600-$850) and knits for $60-$120 (were $220-$350). Cash only. 11/19-11/21; 10-7; 110 W. 40th St. (Broadway and 6th Ave.), suite 1002.
Satya's "yoga-inspired" jewelry, found at Anthropologie, J. Jill, and other stores, is up to 70% off, starting at $10. Cash only. 11/21-11/22, 11-8; 330 Bleecker St. (at Christopher St.).
Another for the guys: Britain's Ben Sherman and Japan's Evisu Genes are having a joint sale. Ben Sherman items are $10-$100; Evisu items are $45-$100. All sizes are available. 11/20-11/26; Thursday and Tuesday 10-7, Monday and Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-4, closed Sunday; 261 W.36th St., (7th and 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Believe it or not, there are even more sales starting this weekend. Check back Friday for details.
It's never too early...
...to think about spring shopping! According to WWD, the top accessories trends for spring will be:
* Lots of color, especially pink and orange.
* Jeweled embellishments on handbags, hair accessories, and scarves.
* Handbags made of rubber, PVC, or plastic coating.
* Bold and graphic silver jewelry, sometimes paired with leather or suede.
* Zodiac motifs.
* Pearls, especially oversized ones.
* Cargo bags.
Many of these sound like holdovers from last spring (pink, cargo bags), although, thankfully, there is no mention of the clutch purse, which, if you ask me, is a dead donkey. As for the rubber handbags, Jelly Kelly, here I come!
...to think about spring shopping! According to WWD, the top accessories trends for spring will be:
* Lots of color, especially pink and orange.
* Jeweled embellishments on handbags, hair accessories, and scarves.
* Handbags made of rubber, PVC, or plastic coating.
* Bold and graphic silver jewelry, sometimes paired with leather or suede.
* Zodiac motifs.
* Pearls, especially oversized ones.
* Cargo bags.
Many of these sound like holdovers from last spring (pink, cargo bags), although, thankfully, there is no mention of the clutch purse, which, if you ask me, is a dead donkey. As for the rubber handbags, Jelly Kelly, here I come!
Monday, November 17, 2003
Shopping for a cause
Not to be confused with shopping with a cause, this is a way to be charitable while doing something you do anyway, i.e., buying stuff online. So, courtesy of the lovely Brie, here's how your reckless consumerism can benefit EngenderHealth, a women's global healthcare nonprofit:
1. Click here.
2. Hit the purple Join Now link and fill in relevant info.
3. Shop at your regular haunts, like eBay, L.L. Bean, Barnes and Noble, Target.com, Cheap Tickets, NetFlix, Travelocity, and more.
How does this work? Most of these places give 2%-6% to EngenderHealth if you access from IGive. Best of all, this is totally free--the donation is made by the company, not by you. So shop to your heart's content and help out the ladies in the rest of the world.
Not to be confused with shopping with a cause, this is a way to be charitable while doing something you do anyway, i.e., buying stuff online. So, courtesy of the lovely Brie, here's how your reckless consumerism can benefit EngenderHealth, a women's global healthcare nonprofit:
1. Click here.
2. Hit the purple Join Now link and fill in relevant info.
3. Shop at your regular haunts, like eBay, L.L. Bean, Barnes and Noble, Target.com, Cheap Tickets, NetFlix, Travelocity, and more.
How does this work? Most of these places give 2%-6% to EngenderHealth if you access from IGive. Best of all, this is totally free--the donation is made by the company, not by you. So shop to your heart's content and help out the ladies in the rest of the world.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
