Recessionista Rewards! Loehmann's Clearance Blow Out Sale

Pictured: My Local Loehmann's Clearance Red Tag Sale

Quite by chance, I had to make an emergency Loehmann's run tonight. I need panty hose (buy 12, get 1 free) for the weekend and some candles. House guests are scheduled, and I have to get everything ready. I had no idea what a pleasant surprise awaited me. Loehmann's is having a wonderful clearance event with great items for $5.00, $10.00 and $15.00 (of course some are higher), but the values are incredible. Some items are marked down as much as 90%. I had to exercise "The Courage to Be Frugal" at this sale, as I waited in line for the eternity of 15 minutes to make my purchases. It was crowded. All the Recessionistas were out tonight. I scored some great finds and found new designer arrivals that I had no idea they were now carrying.

So here is my pictorial tour of my fabulous Loehmann's finds. Join me as I skip through the aisles!

Pictured: The Recessionista's Reward: Amrita Singh Earrings Reduced to $10.00 at the Loehmann's Clearance Sale

Pictured: NEW! Tory Burch at Loehmann's Back Room (reduced, but not on clearance)

Pictured: NEW! Cynthia Steffe at Loehmann's Back Room (reduced, but not on clearance)

Pictured: Spring Forward in Coach Sandals with a Cute Flower + Gold Coach Button Center


Pictured: Betsey Johnson's Betseyville Carry On Luggage & Totes starting at $99.00 USD

To find a list of Loehmann's near you, visit them on the web. Loehmann's stores can be found in the US, Canada and Mexico. The sale includes men's, women's and children's items.

PS: The Candle I bought at the sale was : Heavenly Home, Chamomile Eucalyptus, Zodiac Sign "Aquarius." I will be going back to stock up on a few more of these. The scent is unbelievable. I think I paid $7.00 US for that Candle at Loehmann's and they retail for $30.00.

Recessionista Rewards! Loehmann's Clearance Blow Out Sale

Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg On Sale!

Private shopping club RueLaLa has two great sales of note today that you might want to check out: Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg shoes, dresses and accessories. These private sales are worth a look. Click here to join as The Recessionista's guest. The DVF sale features handbags and dresses. For more DVF on sale, visit their website sale. Enjoy!

Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg On Sale!

Thoughts on Obama's Address: Echos of the Roosevelts, the Depression and Recessionistas Past

Pictured: Obama's Speech (photo from the AP Wire)

I just watched the Obama address this evening and I can't speak for the rest of the country, but I found the address very moving and uplifting. For me, one of the most interesting parts of the speech were the echoes of the language of FDR and Mrs. Roosevelt. I felt their words coming back to us over the years in many of the things our new president said. " We will rebuild. We will recover, and the United States of America will emerge stronger than before," Obama said. Those words echo FDR's statement about the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930's. He put forward the idea of the WPA , saying, “American workers will rebuild the nation’s roads and bridges, ... Yes, we will “put people to work.” I think of those words a lot as I drive around Los Angeles through various tunnels built by the WPA and over bridges like the ones on the road to Big Sur, all built by WPA workers.

Pictured: An old poster for FDR's WPA Program

I also heard echoes of Eleanor Roosevelt, possibly the first Recessionista, tonight in his speech. When he talked about responsibility mingled with hope, that reminded me so much of Eleanor. If you look at her newspaper columns from the 1930s, responsibility and hope were some of her over arching themes. There is a great site with all her columns online that you can look at called My Day.

Pictured: Eleanor Roosevelt's "My Day" Daily Newspaper Column, the Blog of the Depression-era

Thinking about her columns today, and the echoes of her words I heard tonight, I had an interesting thought about Eleanor. Her "My Day" columns were really the first blog. In those pre-blog-0-sphere, Depression days, she connected with people on a daily basis through her columns. She also received over 300,000 letters from her readers and from children during the Depression. That's one hell of a social network. People wrote to her just as they would post comments on a blog today. I didn't realize until I " Googled" it this evening, but her column ran until 1936 to 1962. Like bloggers today, she always connected her daily tasks and thoughts with larger issues. And like Mrs. Obama before her, Mrs. Roosevelt practiced Recessionista dressing and style. When I was researching the first ladies Inaugural gowns for a previous post, I was fascinated to learn that Eleanor only had one Inaugural gown, and it was a classic, but not ostentatious, long blue dress. She passed on other Inaugural balls after the first term and had March of Dimes dinners instead. She was a lover of fine fashions, and she did buy some designer frocks, but never anything too attention getting or colorful. Her fashions definitely reflected the times.

Pictured: Mrs. Roosevelt in an elegant, but frugal fashion choice

So just as Mr. Obama tipped his hat to the Roosevelts' tonight in his address, I want to tip my hat to them in my humble blog post. Would there even be bloggers today, writing in such an informal style, if Eleanor had not kicked it all off with "My Day?" And would anyone be able to talk about the "Audacity of Hope" during this recession if FDR had not shown us the way and connected to the nation via his "Fireside Chats?" To quote FDR, " One thing is sure. We have to do something. We have to do the best we know how at the moment... if it doesn't turn out right, we can modify it as we go along."

Pictured: FDR , pre-YouTube or TV giving a radio "Fireside Chat"

Thoughts on Obama's Address: Echos of the Roosevelts, the Depression and Recessionistas Past

Red Carpet Hair Style Tips----The Winner is YOU!

Pictured: Two of the Red Carpet's Best Looks, Kate Winslet and Angelina Jolie

If you're like me, you sat transfixed for over 3 hours Sunday to watch the Academy Awards. This year's Oscars were filled with stunning looks, amazing jewelry and old time Hollywood glamour worthy of Max Factor. How may thousands of us tune in every year to watch the show? That's because we all want to look as beautiful as the ladies on the red carpet. And it's total escapist fantasy to watch them. We aspire to their look but we don't want to pay hundreds, maybe even thousands for their styles. Fortunately, Suave® Celebrity Hairstylist Luke O'Connor, has given us a few tips on how to look fab for a whole lot less using reasonably priced Suave® hair products. Affordably priced and easily accessible at any discount store or drug store around the world, Suave products enable Recessionistas to remain stylish on a budget. This is what the new "Suavenomics" campaign is all about. In this economy, the timing couldn't be better. We asked Suave Celebrity Hairstylist Luke O'Connor to give us some tips on how to take a few of the red carpet looks and do them at home. Luke O’Connor is owner of the exclusive LuKaRo Salon in Beverly Hills and is a consultant/spokesperson for Suave. His clients include: Debra Messing, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Diane Keaton, Brooke Shields and Lucy Liu. Those are pretty good references! :) He had me at Diane Keaton. Here are his tips for some of our favorite star hair styles at the Oscars.


The Look: Half-up waves

Pictured: Angelina Jolie on the Red Carpet (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)

Gorgeous waves are always a favorite at award shows and several super stars sported this look. Angelina Jolie and Jessica Biel both radiated beauty with their loosely styled tendrils pinned half-up. To recreate at home: Apply Suave Healthy Curls Scrunching Mousse to towel dried hair to help define waves and control frizz. Flip hair over and blow dry hair until most of the moisture is gone and hair is 85% dry. Section off the top section of hair from the center of each eyebrow back to crown, and clip out of the way. Dry remaining hair completely. Use a 1.5 inch curling iron on two inch sections of hair and spiral wrap around iron, leaving waves loose and smooth. This should be about six to eight sections of hair. On the top section, use a medium round brush and blow dry back, straight and smooth. Back-comb for added volume and secure desired amounts of hair from either side of your face with bobby pins. Set into place with Suave Extra Hold Hairspray.

The Look: Fashionable Side Bun

Pictured: Tina Fey at The Vanity Fair Oscar Party (Credit Tikipeter)

Tina Fey looked so beautiful last night. I loved her with Steve Martin reading the awards for "Best Screenplay." That was one of the show's best bits. She bought back a classic retro look, the "side bun." According to Luke, it's easy to achieve this classy, modern take on Hollywood tradition. Here's how.

To recreate at home:

For smooth and frizz-free locks, prep hair with Suave® Professionals® Sleek Shampoo and Conditioner. Next, give hair body and control by applying Suave® Professionals® Extra Hold Styling Foam to damp hair. Gather the top layer of hair and pin up at the crown. Blow dry the rest of hair in sections using a medium round brush to lock in volume. Unpin hair at the crown and blow dry in 1 inch sections using the round brush. Blow dry bangs by rolling the hair around the brush away from the face and directed to the side for swooping side bangs. Keep side-swept bangs locked in place with Suave® Professionals® Extra Hold Gel. Next, take a 1.5 inch curling iron to curl the large sections of hair. Finally, gather hair into a pony tail and loosely twist down to create a low chignon off to the side. Secure with pins and let loose pieces fall naturally for a look that's effortlessly chic.


The Look: Glamorous Curls

Another great look came from one of my favorites, Sarah Jessica Parker. She was living in Cincinnati, Ohio at the same time I was. I always heard from people at the School of the Arts how very talented she was, and how nice she was. Judging by her behavior on the Red Carpet, that has not changed. I loved how she stopped to compliment Anne Hathaway on her gown.


Pictured: Sarah Jessica Parker on the Red Carpet, with her cascading curls and Matthew Broderick (Photo: AP)

According to Luke, Sarah Jessica Parker was wearing "structured curls" with a middle part that gave her " a modern edge" and that you can do at home for a special evening out.

To recreate at home:

Stock your shower with Suave® Humectant Shampoo and Conditioner so curls will have added shine and brightness. Next, apply Suave® Professionals® Extra Hold Styling Foam to damp hair to give body and control. Be sure to blow dry hair upside down to achieve maximum volume. Once hair is completely dry, flip back up and create a center part. Take 1 to 1.5 inch sections of hair and spiral wrap around a 1 to 1.25 inch curling iron to create neat curls. For superior style and control, lock in the look with Suave® Professionals® Freeze Hold Hairspray.


The Suave products that Luke recommends are the following listed below with their prices. I was shocked to learn how reasonable these were:

• Suave Healthy Curls Scrunching Mousse: $2.99
• Suave Extra Hold Hairspray: $2.99
• Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo and Conditioner: $2.49 for each
• Extra Hold Styling Foam: $2.99
• Suave Professionals Extra Hold Gel: $2.99
• Suave Humectant Shampoo and Conditioner: $2.49 for each
• Suave Professionals Freeze Hold Hairspray: $2.99

To learn more, and try the beauty profiler, visit www.suavenomics.com

I want that Tina Fey side bun up do!! It's fabu. Drop us a note and let us know what your favorite look was.

Red Carpet Hair Style Tips----The Winner is YOU!

Oscar Fashions for Less: Get Ready for the CFDA Red Carpet Sale at Gilt on Feb. 23rd

If you're like me, you just enjoyed the 81st Annual Academy Awards show and the fashion parade on the Red Carpet. There were some really beautiful dresses on display this year. In honor of the show and the fashions, Gilt Groupe will be offering a CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Red Carpet sale tomorrow at noon EST, 9 am PST. To shop the sale when it opens, click here to join Gilt as my guest. The sale will include both accessories and eveningwear at discounted prices. The accessories will range from stone cuffs and lucite pendants to clutches. The accessories are from CFDA favorites Anthony Nak, Alexis Bittar, Mimi So, Kara Ross and Lambertson Truex. The Oscar worthy dresses and evening wear will include gowns and dresses from CFDA designers Brian Reyes, Badgley Mischka, Carolina Herrera, J. Mendel, Oscar de la Renta, Peter Som and Vera Wang.

From what I saw of the sale preview, there will be beautiful dresses, many in the unique one shoulder style worn by some of the nominees. Who was your favorite actress/dress on the Red Carpet? Mine was Kate Winslet in her Yves Saint Laurent gown. She reminded me of Grace Kelly with her slicked back hair and her beautiful one shoulder gown. See for yourself.

Pictured: Kate Winslet at the Oscars. photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Pictured: Grace Kelly in her 1950's Red Carpet Look

Oscar Fashions for Less: Get Ready for the CFDA Red Carpet Sale at Gilt on Feb. 23rd

Shopping Club Ideeli's Hollywood Bollywood Gift Bag Giveaway Just Started

Pictured: Ideeli's Hollywood Bollywood Gift Bag Giveaway

If you're like me, you're counting down to the Oscars in 24 hours. But now, there is something else for Recessionista's to countdown to. Shopping club Ideeli's Hollywood Bollywood Giveaway just started. One lucky winner will be drawn at random around the same time as the Oscar show. And the winner....could be YOU! Click here to join Ideeli and enter the contest as my guest! The goodie bag sounds sumptuous and I have already placed my entry into the magic hat. The timing is appropriate as Slumdog Millionaire is many movie goers' choice to win Best Picture. (Personally, I am torn between Slumdog and Benjamin Button. I loved Benjamin Button!)

Here's what's in the Bollywood Bag of goodies bag:

The package includes five DVDs of top Bollywood-inspired films including:

Monsoon Wedding,

The Namesake,

Yuvvraaj,

Om Shati Om

The Guru (starring Heather Graham).

While you watch these classic movies, indulge in Dean & Deluca's "A Taste of India" Tea Sampler (to remind you of Bollywood), and Dean & Deluca's Candy Set (packed full of deluxe American movie snacks). And of course, since one of the best parts of movies is the fashion, we wouldn't leave you without something fabulous to wear! Wrap yourself in Pashma's vibrant pink and amethyst Indian-inspired scarf as you curl up on the couch-or as you head out for your own Oscar-worthy adventures!

This year, the Academy Award goodies aren't reserved just for Oscar insiders. Ideeli brings you a taste of the SWAG usually reserved for the presenters!

If you love the movies, don't forget to check out check out Amazon's Academy Award winning films on sale for 50% off.

Bon Fetes Recessionistas!

Shopping Club Ideeli's Hollywood Bollywood Gift Bag Giveaway Just Started

Oscar® Countdown: Despite the Recession, Hollywood Glamour Will Go On

Pictured: A mock-up of the stage for the 81st Academy Awards

In New York the buzz is all around Fashion Week. But here on the "left" coast, the buzz is all around the Oscars®. And Recession or not, the show must go on. Just as they did during the Great Depression, the movies provide a welcome escape for everyone from troubling news in the world. For a few hours, you sit in the dark looking at the big screen and you are transported to another time, another place and a whole different situation than your own unique present. It's truly magical. And the Oscar ceremony is an extension of that magic and escape. I've seen so many "movie stars' out and about in Los Angeles running errands, at the gym, even at the grocery store. In their day-to-day garb, they are much like us. But all that changes on Oscar day. That's because each star is typically working with a stylist, trainer, make-up artist and designer to look at fabulous as possible. That's because the eyes of the world are watching. No pressure :)

So will it be a Recessionista like Oscars? I think not. Even in the Great Depression, despite bread lines and soup kitchens, there was great fashion at the Oscars. Check out this beautiful dress and think Jean Harlow.

Pictured: Great Depression Oscar worthy style from the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University

Pictured: Helen Hayes with her Oscar in 1932, Photo from the Oscar website

Above is a great picture of Helen Hayes from the Oscars in a timelessly elegant black dress for her win in 1932. This dress could be worn today, without the corsage of course :), and still look contemporary.

So here's the Oscar buzz around town. Reem Acra is one of several important designers in town this week working out of a hotel suite with her beautiful gowns to offer potential clients. I hope we see alot of her tasteful designs on the red carpet.

Pictured: A Reem Acra Evening Gown from her 2009 collection, photo from: Reem Acra.com

I loved the dress she did for Jill Bidden for the Inauguration. Designers like Randolph Duke, Dior, Carolina Herrera, Atelier Versace, Chanel and Giorgio Armani will certainly be represented. Most of the well know designers have already sent their creations to the star's stylists for consideration. Rachael Zoe is probably working around the clock this week.

Pictured: One of my past favorites, Helen Mirren from 2008 in Georges Chakra Photo from the Oscar website

Even in this economy, style will still shine forth at the Oscars. That's the business of Hollywood. What the Recession will most effect will be the surrounding ceremonies. There will be fewer parties this year, and sources report that even the Vanity Fair party will have fewer invitees and attendees. The round of screenings and advertisements financed by studios to market films to academy voters has been sharply curtailed. It's certainly not tragic to hear that the gift bags will also be cut back. Many retailers just don't want to contribute free high-end items anymore. The catering will also be affected by the economy. I was shocked to read that the menu at the Governor's Ball won't feature the usual exotic gourmet fare. Instead, the menu will include more comfort foods like Chicken Pot Pie. Seems like everyone should just run over to Musso and Frank's restaurant on Hollywood Boulevard. Their menu hasn't changed much since 1919 and they were around for the very first Academy Awards dinner held at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

Hollywood Jeweler to the stars Neil Lane notes, that despite the Recession, he believes viewers "want a moment of respite and happiness and joy. They want to go `Wow!' and have their eyes open. They want to dream." (Source: Despite economy, the show must go on in Hollywood , By Christy Lemire )
I know I do. I can't wait to see the Red Carpet fashions this year.

Of course, there could be a few Recessionistas on the Red Carpet. Remember gorgeous Sharon Stone in her Gap mock turtleneck and Armani skirt from 1996? Just in case you forgot, here's a pic from the Recessionista Historical Society.

Pictured: Oscar's Recessionista Moment , Sharon Stone in a Black Shirt from the Gap

To shop Nicole Miller sunglasses today for less join Haute Look as our guest. Click here to check out fashions from this designer whose clothes have graced the Red Carpet. Another star favorite is designer brand Alice + Oliva on sale today at RueLaLa. Click here to shop that sale as our guest.

And if you just love the movies, and not necessarily the fashions, check out Amazon's Academy Award winning films on sale for 50% off.

Oscar® Countdown: Despite the Recession, Hollywood Glamour Will Go On

Movie Star Chic in Beverly Hills: The Recessionista Steps into Gavert Atelier

As some of you readers may know, Los Angeles is getting ready for the 81st Annual Academy Awards this Sunday. Over on Hollywood Boulevard, the Red Carpet "Fashion Walk" has already been built for the stars to walk upon on their way into the Kodak Theatre. This is a whole week of preparations, not just for the attendees but for the fashion and beauty industry here. It's also a week of great expectations. Hair, skin, brows, fashion and jewelry must all be attended to. The stars and attendees are expected to look fabulous, economic downturn or not.

To kick-off our week of Academy Award preparations, we wanted to visit a salon that the stars frequent. We choose Gavert Atelier/Nagomi Hair Spa in Beverly Hills. This is the salon that stars from Friends (TV show) and major motion pictures like Twilight have turned to for stylish cuts, perfect eyebrows and even skin treatments. Salon owner Stuart did the hair color for the stars of the movie TWILIGHT. From this, he recently launched a concept of color on color highlighting called “Twilights.” After all, even Vampires need to look good :)

In order to access the salon, The Recessionista recently spent a pleasant afternoon there trying their services. It was a nice surprise to find the staff friendly and down to earth. Most clients were greeted like old friends upon their arrival. I have visited several salons in Beverly Hills, and friendliness and service are not always to be found there. It's been my experience that a few of them act as though they are doing you a favor by allowing you to come in for an appointment and then charging you hundreds of dollars without delivering true customer service or value. Let's face it, in a tough economy, service becomes a key differentiator. People are still willing to pay for personal care, but they want to be treated well for the money they spend. Galvert offers the service that some other salons lack. From owners Stuart and Cody to the staff, I was impressed by the amount of time each stylist spent with their client. The salon offers facial and body hair waxing, full hair services including color and cut plus facials using the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System.


Let's start with the facial and body hair waxing. Michelle O'Neil (aka Michelle of Beverly Hills) did my brows before my recent TV appearance. She is Magic! My brows have never looked better. Best of all, the cost was $40.00. Well worth it. Michelle offers facial hair waxing, body waxing and permanent make-up application. She trained with the Hollywood legend, Anastasia. If I was going to walk the Red Carpet this Sunday, I'd be scrambling to see her this week. Her work frames my eyes perfectly and it is very natural looking. She took the time to study my brow line, and work with what I had. Best of all, I didn't wince with pain when she tore off the wax paper. The Recessionista doesn't like to pay for pain :) It hurts the wallet and the psyche.

Pictured: Gavert is the home of Michelle of Beverly Hills, expert brow, face and body waxing. She has rescued my brows from their Frida Kohler "unibrow" look :)

Gavert also offers a unique facial using the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System II EX Spa. The Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System II includes a patented, handheld device that uses self-adjusting, low-level galvanic currents to help transport "key" ingredients to the skin for a revived and rejuvenated appearance. While the salon recommends that you come in for the first treatment, they also sell the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System II EX Spa Beauty At Home introductory kit. The kit includes the galvanic instrument and treatment products for approximately US $300. If you like the treatment, over time, doing it at home can save you money on expensive facials at salons. Gavert Atelier Owner Stuart told me he uses the system at home every day and enjoys it. He views it as time he takes to pamper himself in the midst of a busy routine. If you are interested in non-surgical anti-aging treatments, it's definitely worth checking out,. The treatment took about 20 minutes and left my skin pleasantly tingling and refreshed. I enjoyed a "rosy glow" from the enhanced circulation and application of the various enzymes. For me, non-surgical is the only alternative I would consider, so I was anxious to check out this new treatment and Gavert Atelier is one of the first to offer it. “Consumers in every economic category are spending money on anti-aging products," notes Ashok Pahwa, chief marketing officer at Nu Skin Enterprises. It's understandable, even in this economy we all want to look our best.

Pictured: Gavert's Facial equipment, the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System

Of course the mainstay of the salon is hair services and the special hair/scalp massage that some clients have called almost "orgasmic." If you're looking for hair care, check out Matthew Burton at Gavert Atelier. He does a fantastic job and gives a great cut starting at $90.00. Although hair cuts at Gavert can be pricey (ranging from $90.00 to $450.00), Matthew's prices fit our Recessionista budget perfectly. And he proved an important point, Gavert is nice to all their clients, even those who haven't achieved renown as a blogger or a movie star :) He was perfectly charming to our secret reviewer, even when there was some confusion about her appointment and "who" she might be. Truly a class act.

Pictured: The master stylist at work, Matthew Burton styles a perfect cut.

Pictured: Matthew Burton's Precision Cut

Matthew also offered some great tips for keeping your hair in shape or jazzing it up for a great night out after you've visited the salon. It's good advice to get a great haircut for a reasonable price, and then maintain it in an economical fashion. He advises that there are things you can do on your own to keep your hair looking great. Here are a few of his tips for our Recessionista Readers.

• Keep your hair looking great after treating yourself to a good cut by visiting a local beauty school for an economical shampoo and blow dry for a special night out. Just do a Google search to find a beauty school near where you live.
  

• Buy yourself a set of hot rollers from any discount store. You can give yourself a special look at home by setting your hair with the hot rollers for 20 minutes and then brushing it out and applying a quick spritz of hair spray to keep it in place.

To learn more, visit www.gavertatelier.com or take a look at their reviews on YELP!

Pictured: "Salon to the Stars" Owners Stuart Gavert and Cody Kusakabe.

PS--if you're looking for Oscar worthy fashions, check out Badgley Mischka Platinum on sale today at the Gilt Groupe. Many past nominees have walked the red carpet in Badgley Mischka Platinum. Click here to join as our guest!

Movie Star Chic in Beverly Hills: The Recessionista Steps into Gavert Atelier

Michael Kors and Laundry by Shelli Segal today at RueLaLa

Private shopping club RueLaLa has two great sales of note today that you might want to check out: Michael by Michael Kors and Laundry by Shelli Segal. If you're like me today, you're struggling to stay out of the rain in California :) These private sales are worth a look. Click here to join as The Recessionista's guest. The Michael Kors sale features handbags, outerwear (including rain coats) and sunglasses. The Laundry sale features some beautiful dresses. Enjoy!

Michael Kors and Laundry by Shelli Segal today at RueLaLa

The Recessionista Report: Target Previews McQ with a Private Sale in NYC

Target held a VIP preview of their upcoming Alexander McQueen "McQ" Target Collection Friday the 13th in downtown Manhattan. Always interested in the lower priced versions of designer lines, The Recessionista decided to cover the event to give our readers a first-hand look at the collection. With high hopes we sent our photographer and NY correspondents to take a "first look." Some of you may remember that back in November, Target announced McQueen as their inaugural designer to introduce their new "Designer Collaborations" line, which is similar, but not to be confused, with it's "GO International" line. This new "Collaborations" line promises to be sized for women, and not just juniors. This will be a welcome change for all the fashion forward who shop these collections but would prefer regular sizes.

Pictured : Recessionistas queue up for a Preview Shopping event for Target's new Alexander McQueen "McQ" collection on Friday the 13th in New York City

The show, which was billed as a "private shopping event" gave viewers the opportunity not only to see what the collection looked like, but also a chance to purchase the goods right there. Sticking with their tagline "Expect More, Pay Less," Target delivered trendy fashions such as colorful dresses, leather vests, hip graphic tees, and pants for reasonable prices. Regrettably, there were no reported sightings of the designer, Mr. McQueen. The clothes were set up in different "boutiques" around the floor where shoppers could pair up different looks. The McQ for Target Collection looked to be well-received by many of the attendees, as the line for the changing room was about 50 plus people deep ! The wait was so long that some jumped off the line and started to change in any corner they could find. Amazing, huh? Seems in this economy changing rooms are being downsized too! That is a shopping indignity that you don't expect to see at a "preview party."

Pictured: One of the McQ for Target One Shoulder Dresses on the rack at the Manhattan warehouse, Photo: Steven Pena

Target invited several celebrities to this little soiree, but we are not showing that here. The reason is, we don't think shoppers should be influenced by what a celebrity is wearing, that most probably, was give to them free of charge. Remember Recessionistas, since you have to pay for these fashions out of your hard-earned dollars, you want to choose clothes that will flatter your shape and will make you feel good wearing them. Don't make your fashion choices based on what a star from a TV show wears at a party for her "PR" photo opportunity.

Now back to the collection. Pink and black dominated the color palate of this collection, although there were also some blues, greys and dark greens spattered about. The collection included a few swimsuits, one all black bikini with metal rivets, a cream and black striped bikini. Edgy touches like metal rivets and zippers were prevalent. One of our favorite pieces was a black leather cropped vest ($139). We asked shopper Jorli, what she thought of the vest. " I am really picky about leather and abhor cheap feeling fabrics, " reports Jorli. "But, I must say I was impressed by the quality of this vest." Some of the other top picks:

• A fitted, studded grey jacket (pictured below)
  
• A one piece, off the shoulder pink and black dress
• A strapless blue "tattooed dress" pictured below

Pictured: One to the McQ Collection's Key Pieces, a denim studded jacket, Photo: Steven Pena


The one-shouldered look was repeated throughout the collection on tunics and blouses as well as on one of the clearly most popular items - a dark green and black mini dress. That dress was flying off the shelves, and looked even cuter on than it did on the rack.

Pictured: The McQ Black Jumpsuit, not our favorite piece

The biggest miss was a one piece black jumpsuit - not even the hordes of fashion forward peeps were really touching that one.
Another dress winner was a multi-blue strapless full skirted mini - very 1950s meets the 80s.
Pictured: The McQ "Blue Tattooed" Strapless Dress on the shopping racks and a model The blue tattooed print is also offered as a T-shirt which can be worn on its own or with the jackets from the collection. We interviewed one attendee and long time Target aficionado about the collection. Here was his take, "Most of the clothes shown are very trendy and I believe they're great buys at that price. As with all fashion, there will be some misses and critics might knock the workmanship quality of the items, but for the most part, Target shoppers will like the clothes and eat them up."

Pictured: Target McQ Blouse and High-Waisted Skirt with Belt

The entire McQ for Target collection will hit Target stores nationwide on March 4, 2009.

If you live in New York/New Jersey area, you can still check out out the McQ preview sale today, Sunday 2/15/2009.

Here are the details:

TARGET McQ PREVIEW TODAY Sunday 2/15/2009

Where: St. John’s Center
330 West Street
West Houston Street New York, NY

If you head over there, send us a comment and let us know what you think!
A preview of some the looks is available on the Target website for you to check.

One piece I will be looking for is this one:
Pictured: The Target McQ Zipped Shoulder Sweater in a beautiful blue, retails for $44.99

If any of you are looking to check out President's day sales today, check my previous post.

Good values abound at high-end retailers, BCBG, Ted Baker, Bendels and more.

Happy Sunday! Hope all my dear readers had a great Valentine's Day 2009!

The Recessionista Report: Target Previews McQ with a Private Sale in NYC

President's Day Sales of Note to Help Last Minute Valentine Gift Giving

As some of us scramble to get our last minute Valentine's gifts, it's important to know that some great sales are starting tomorrow to help those looking for gifts or a special outfit stay within their shopping budget. Here are a few items of note to help your gift giving efforts:

Loehmann's is kicking off their secret sale starting Feb. 13th. President's Day Secret Sale: Friday, February 13th through Monday, February 16th. Pick up a secret sale coupon at your Loehmann’s while supplies last. You could save 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% or 50% off the retail price.

Kohl's is having a sale, including my favorite, Simply Vera: Receive 15% off on all purchases when using your Kohl's Credit Card with coupon code: TAKE15FEB.

Pictured: Simply Vera Vera Wang Sterling Silver Clear Crystal Star Pendant, on sale

Gilt Groupe : Check out the Gilt Groupe today for sales on Lucy Sykes girls' dresses and Theory Men's. Click here to shop as our guest. I just bought the Recession-Niece-sta ( my niece) another Lucy dress at a deep discount. They also have Amber Hagen for children on sale today.

Marshalls and TJ Maxx have a great assortment of gifts and bargains for everyone in the family.

Macy's has another great sale going on, with additional coupons for saving in your local paper.

H&M: Check their website for details.

Now, let's take a moment to look at one of the non-obvious choices for value. One of my favorite retailers is having a wonderful sale. If you live in New York, run over to the beautiful Henri Bendel historic store on Fifth Ave. for their "NOW AND LATER SALE." If only I was there now with my favorite shopper Oooo. :) I love the experience of shopping there because it's such a beautiful place. It just make me feel good to be in the store. And every now and then, even as a Recessionista, I require some customer service and attention. So, when Henri Bendel has a sale, I hear its siren call. I have already sent my New York Recessionista posse over on "orange level" alert to check it out.

Pictured: The atrium view of my favorite historic store, Henri Bendel New York

So here's the low down on the Bendel Sale. The sale is on for 4 days, through Feb. 16th. SAVE 25% ON SELECT SPRING MERCHANDISE THROUGHOUT THE STORE, INCLUDING:

HENRI BENDEL SPRING KNITWEAR, CONTEMPORARY HANDBAGS & SPORTSWEAR, LINGERIE, SWIMWEAR, FRAGRANCE* (some fragrances are excluded, ask at the store). Plus take an ADDITIONAL 25% off already reduced Spring apparel & accessories. RECEIVE A $25 HENRI BENDEL GIFT CARD FOR EVERY $150 YOU SPEND, Valid towards future shopping March 1-31.

If you are looking for a last minute gift for your wife or girlfriend, and you live in NYC, trust me you need to go up to Jewelry on the second floor and look at the Yummi Glass heart necklace. It's breathtaking and a perfect Valentine! If there are any past or recent "faux pas" that you are looking to overcome, trust me, the heart will do the trick.

Pictured: The Yummi Glass Heart Necklace Makes a Perfect Valentine, sold at Henri Bendel

Recently Time Out New York mentioned the word "Recessionista" and my blog in the same sentence with Henri Bendel. I wrote back to them promptly to express my absolute delight to be mentioned in the same phrase with this high-end retailer. After all, The Recessionista leaves no stone unturned in the quest for value. Quality + Price can be found in all the best places, especially when the sale sign is up :) Click here to check for a Henri Bendel near you.

And my last tip, is about one of my favorite topics, fine wine. Chateau Julien in Carmel, CA is a fantastic little gem of a winery. For a limited time, they are offering shipping on their wines for 68 cents!!! Unbelievable. They must've been tipped off that The Recessionista was looking to get some of their wine. They make an excellent Port, a delicious Carmel Sherry and a not to be missed Syrah. I can't wait to taste them all:)

President's Day Sales of Note to Help Last Minute Valentine Gift Giving

Beauty on a Budget for Valentine's Day: Frugally Fab for Less

Pictured : The old Max Factor Make-Up Studio off of Hollywood Boulevard

Here in Los Angeles, the town is getting ready for two important upcoming events that will require true glamour. Up first, is Valentine's Day on Feb. 14th followed by the Academy Awards Feb. 22nd. Recessionistas are getting ready for parties, dates and stay at home dinner dates. Regardless of the activity, there is one common denominator: the desire to look "Frugally Fabu-Less." So, where can you go to look great for the first upcoming event, Valentine's Day? A few salons of note are having specials that we want to pass onto our Recessionista readers:

First up, Los Angeles Prive is offering a "Single Girl Beauty Package" that includes Hair Cut, Blow Out, Makeup Makeover $150! This is the great way to pamper yourself and prepare for a Valentine's" Night on the Town ". The treatment comes complete with champagne to enjoy while you are pampered.

In Santa Monica, The Shampoo Lounge is offering a fabulous deal that extends to Valentine's Day and beyond. The Shampoo Lounge offers a Hair Cut, Style and Makeup Application for $130 for the entire month of February. Simply mention the promo from The Recessionista Blog when you call to make an appointment. Please make your appointment at least 1 business day in advance. Ask for David Jensen to do your hair if you go there :)

Pictured: A Beauty Salon, circa 1920

If you want to look like a movie star, but not pay movie star prices, check out Gavert Atelier/Nagomi Hair Spa in Beverly Hills. Michelle O'Neil (aka Michelle of Beverly Hills) did my brows before my recent TV appearance. She is a Magic! My brows have never looked better. Best of all, the cost was $40.00. Well worth it. If you're looking for hair care, check out Matthew Burton at Gavert Atelier. He does a fantastic job and gives a great cut for $90.00. I'll be featuring more about Gavert Atelier salon in my upcoming Oscar week coverage. Stay tuned.

For our readers in both Los Angeles and New York, check out the Lifebooker website offering beauty specials in your area. You can even choose the salon of your choice and then search for the best deal.

For beauty deals around the world, check out Spafinder. For more deals in the US, Canada and the UK, check website YELP. I rely on their reviews for honesty and value. Just a few tips to get you on your way to looking and feeling great!

For specials in New York, click here.
For San Francisco, click here.
For Toronto, click here.
To look for other cities in Canada, search Yelp.ca
For London, click here.
To look for other cities in the UK, search http://www.yelp.co.uk

P.S.: If you're interested in some shopping today, check out Miu Miu handbags and one of my favorites, Tracy Reese Plenty at Ruelala. Click here to join as our guest.

Pictured: Tracy Reese Plenty on sale at Ruelala today.

Beauty on a Budget for Valentine's Day: Frugally Fab for Less