It's no April Fool's Joke: McQ hits the Target Sales Racks

Pictured: McQ on sale at Target.com

This just in, what's left of the Alexander McQueen "McQ" line just hit the Target clearance racks. McQ (rhymes with McPhew) is now 30% off. That didn't take long did it. Target-Addict called this one. So if you had your heart set on the 80's look, maybe a cool one piece jumpsuit, or the skill and pirate tattoo print shirt, now is your chance to enjoy these, er "treasures" for a third off of retail.

It's no April Fool's Joke: McQ hits the Target Sales Racks

Ideeli's Gen Art Giveaway starts now plus, some great sales

Recessionista-friendly shopping club Ideeli knows there is no better way to stay on top of artistic trends than by joining the group that helps to shape them, which is why they've partnered with Gen Art for this inspiring giveaway. Three lucky members will receive a full-year platinum-level membership to Gen Art in the city of their choice. A platinum membership gives you discounted or sometimes complimentary tickets to red carpet events, like Fresh Faces in Fashion, as well as access to VIP members-only events, like the famed Cinema Circle (check your city for specifics).

While not every Ideeli member can win, everyone can join Gen Art and take advantage of this exclusive offer: enroll for a platinum membership or higher and receive 10% off the annual fee. Simply enter the code "ideeli" at checkout. So discover some new artists to love. Staying ahead of the curve has never been so stylish!

And by the way, there is some nice shopping on the Ideeli site today. Check out these chic bargains, by clicking here to shop as my guest:

Victorinox Swiss Army
Starts Tuesday 3/31/2009
Save up to 64% off
Prices start at $149

Sleek and elegant, the highly-detailed faces showcase everything from dates and calendars to alternate time zones and pressure gauges. With a classic, iconic look that will withstand any era, each timepiece is an investment you won't mind making.

Antoinette Lee
Starts Tuesday 3/31/2009
Save up to 55% off
Prices start at $169

These bags are on the cutting-edge when it comes to style, yet Lee never sacrifices sophistication or function for trendiness. Colorful leathers, roomy shapes, and luxe detailing make for looks that can transition easily from uptown to downtown or day to night--and last you a lifetime.

Ideeli's Gen Art Giveaway starts now plus, some great sales

Recessionista Shop 'n' Swap: A Great Idea Sweeping the Globe

Pictured: Recessionistas are swapping, not just shopping, photo from the Daily Mail

In addition to shopping consignment stores, sales and using coupons, I have also been engaging in some "recessionista shopping swap meets." These type of swaps have become very popular this year. Recently, I traded a handbag with a friend who no longer wanted it. I also traded some jewelry with another friend, and we both extended our wardrobe with new looks for cheap. It's a fun idea to get together with a group of friends and exchange bargains. Of course, it can be even more fun with some cosmos thrown in. Truly, I am waiting for someone to invent a Recessionista cocktail. Readers, have any of you seen this? Maybe I need to work on this over the weekend. Check the blog next week for some Recession-tinis. I'm going to get the Martini shaker fired up while I work on the taxes. I think it's a good combination:)

Now, back to the shopping. A great source for swapping is a group called Meetup. Check to see if there are any swaps in your area. Bring the stuff you no longer want, and other ladies & guys do the same. Swapping enhances every one's closet. Its' the ultimate cheap and cheerful event.

Also, in the US, check out the Recessionista Shop and Swap held Sunday March 29th in Cincinnati, OH (my hometown) to learn how people are doing swapping. This event is a great example of a shopping swap meet. It's interesting to look at their rules of engagement. It gives you a good idea how to run one of these. They have some cool videos on their site, demonstrating that sometimes you can't tell what has been swapped, and what has been shopped. Some of the swapped items look like they may have only been worn once or twice.

These events are springing up all over the world this year. The Daily Mail just ran a piece on swapping in the UK.
While it's true that these events can be a savvy way to extend your wardrobe, be sure and only participate in one held by a reputable group like Cincy Chics. You want to be sure that all items that you are considering taking home are in good condition, freshly cleaned and not full of moth holes. Inspect everything carefully, because remember there is no 30 day return policy when swapping.

Some of you may want to check out the concept of Visaswap. These swapping events are sponsored by the Visa credit card company and benefit charity (as well as Visa of course.) Visa defines these as "Visa Swap: a Clothing event to encourage sustainable fashion through ethical swapping activity." The name is not exactly Fred and Ginger, but the concept sounds good to me. You can sign up from the Visaswap home page and then be alerted when a swap happens. Another source to check out is the online swap meet at SwapTreasures. This site allows you to post your stuff and trade with other members.



For more high end swapping of only clothes and accessories, check out Swapstyle. I like what they are showing on their site for fashion. I also like the concept of trading worldwide, so that you can find items that are not sold in your geographic area.

If any of you are sponsoring your own Recessionista Shop 'n' Swap please leave a comment on the blog so that other readers can join in. I'd love to hear if any of you are trading items and getting good deals from trading.

Recessionista Shop 'n' Swap: A Great Idea Sweeping the Globe

British Invasion: TopShop NY Opens April 2 and Alice Temperley on Gilt April 3

Pictured: The New TopShop store in New York is about to open it's doors.

The British are coming, the British are coming! This week offers two important shoppping e-events for Recessionstas to shout about. First up, the long awaited TopShop store will open in New York City on April 2. If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know I love TopShop because they bought Ceila Birtwell's beautiful prints to a whole new generation fo shoppers. I love Ceila and this opening will bring another treat: Liberty of London prints in the new Kate Moss Collection.

Pictured: A preview of the new Kate Moss collection for TopShop featuring Liberty

I am a big fan of Liberty prints and I own several of the dresses, scarves and even a cute little Liberty ladies' ties purchased at Trimminghams' in Hamilton, Bermuda. So, I can't wait to see what this collection will offer.

Liberty itself is having a wonderful sale on their Cacharel Liberty Print Collection on their site. You might want to check it out to experience the beauty of their prints up close and personal via the zoom feature.:)

Pictured: Liberty of London's Cacharel Print Collection on sale at www.Liberty.co.uk

British Invasion: TopShop NY Opens April 2 and Alice Temperley on Gilt April 3

Late Night Shopping Run in Pictures: Dedicated to 00000

Pictured: My late night shopping labors at Loehmann's

Last night, after a hard day working at the office, I had to make a late night Loehmann's run. With all my work chores wrapped up, I had to run over and take advantage of the 15% off for the Ovarian Cancer fund and contribute my $5.00. This post is dedicated to my fellow shopper and blogger, 00o00. ooooo is a "guy in London pondering about all the inane, frivolous and unnecessary wants in life." Across the pond, I am doing the same, except trying to stay on a budget. ooooo buys the things I dream of buying. But he doesn't have a Loehmann's nearby to help him out. So just like oooo0 shows his readers the "day in pictures", I am doing a pictorial view of my shopping " night in pictures." Above is my Loehmann's haul. I got a great lavender peasant shirt ($16.99) , a Bestey Johnson pearl headband (which can also be worn as a choker), Kiehl's Papaya exfoliant, a $2.00 scented candle, a $2.00 packet of traveler's tea bags and finally beautiful Amrita Singh bangle bracelets. And while shopping, I picked up all the brochures and good information on ovarian cancer. I have to set a calendar reminder to go get checked.

Pictured: My beautiful blue enameled Amrita Singh bangle bracelets.

The bracelets are better looking than the picture, and the picture is pretty good! These retail for $82.00, I snapped them up for $29.99 less 15% off.

Pictured: An item I lusted after, but did not buy, a Betsey Johnson tote with gold bows, reduced to $289.00

When I turned the corner and saw this fabulous Betsey bag, I literally gasped at it's beauty and it's $289.00 price tag (reduced from $500.00) . This bag isn't in the Recessionista budget. As 00000 notes on his blog, if I bought something like this then I might be "working part-time stacking the shelves with baked beans at your local supermarket." I had to exercise the courage to be frugal and walk away with sweating palms. But, this is on my Recessionista radar tracking system and of course I will be watching for further reductions. It's absolutely beautiful and so classy looking. And, I think it could be carried for years. I also had to pass on a beautiful Tory Burch tunic top. Even though the price was right on that one, the sleeves on it were way too long on me. Mournfully, I had to return it to the shopping racks. The words of Johnnie Cochran rang in my ears, "If it doesn't fit, you must acquit" Why that popped into my head whilst shopping , I will never know. But I had to realize the truth of the statement. Even though it's tempting sometimes to find a great designer and a great price, if the garment doesn't fit you properly, then there is no point owning it. Regrettably, I never did get the item I went to the store for, the Besteyville luggage. I will use my beat-up luggage a little while longer. I had to have those bangles....no one sees the luggage except an airline baggage handler who abuses it ! :)

My final stop of the evening was my local Target, because they are open until 10:00 pm and I needed a copy of Turbo Tax to do my income taxes (due in 2 weeks!) Turbo Tax is actually on price cut this week, which is helpful. However, on my way to the Turbo Tax, I e-spied....the new Felix Ray handbag collection. Although not due in stores until March 29th, my local Tar-jay had the entire collection displayed on the racks. Check out the pictures. These are great looking summer bags. I have my eye on the blue tote with the sea shell on the front. It's perfect for beach living!

Pictured: The new Felix Ray handbag collection from Target, in early at my local store.

I agree with Target-Addict on this one, it looks wicked cute. I will return to more thoroughly evaluate it and shop the collection. But heads up to my readers, be on the look out for this one. It looks great!

Pictured: The new Felix Ray bucket tote with seashell clasp from Target, in early at my local store.

Late Night Shopping Run in Pictures: Dedicated to 00000

Shopping for a Good Cause: Loehmann’s Fashion Funds Hope Event Today Thursday, March 26th

Big saving news for today, Thursday, March 26th. ! Listen up fashion-savvy, budget-minded shoppers. Today only you can support cancer research while receiving special savings on leading designer apparel , at any of the sixty-three Loehmann’s stores across the US and Canada. Early detection raises the five-year survival rate to 92%.

Loehmann’s customers will be able to pick up information about ovarian cancer at tables set up inside the stores today. The information will cover everything from risk factors to symptoms It's not just about shopping today. If you stop in at a Loehmann's you'll gain some good information about what to look for and what ovarian cancer symptoms look like. Remember the old adage, knowledge is power. If you know what to look for, you can possibly detect it. This information can benefit either yourself or someone you care about. Chances are that you know someone or will know someone in your life that will need this help.

“Every contribution from this special in-store event delivers hope,”says Elizabeth Howard, chief executive officer, OCRF. “We are thrilled Loehmann’s is helping us reach out to educate women and their families across the country. By improving detection, treatment and prevention, we make a real difference together.”

In addition, Loehmann’s will make a contribution to OCRF of 5% of total purchases by donors. This is a very generous offer on the part of Loehmann's. Today is the day I am heading back over to the store to look for savings on the Betseyville luggage I coveted in my earlier post! It's a good to time to restock my pantyhose from Loehmann's with their buy 12 get 1 free offer. And remember, Loehmann's now has clothing for men and children too. Everyone can enjoy some savings today!

If you're shopping online today, check out shopping club Ruelala. They are having their final clearance sale today. Click here to shop as my guest.

RueLaLa.com will host ‘THE FINAL SALE ’ offering 30 brands in one boutique
starting today, 3/26 at 8 am PST, 11 am EST

And one last sale of note, Kate Spade is having a friends and family sale of 30% off, including sale items. This could be some great pre-Mother's day shopping. Above is the coupon for your use if you want to shop the sale online or in the stores. The sale reminds me that I need to go buy my Kate Spade 2009 calendar refills--it's March already!! I have the pocket calendar book that I carry in my handbag. It's a great back-up plan when I can't access a PC.

Shopping for a Good Cause: Loehmann’s Fashion Funds Hope Event Today Thursday, March 26th

My, My, My Merona: The Collection Full of Pretty Things for Spring

Pictured: Target's Merona Collection of Handbags and Scarves for Spring

Last Friday night, I had to do a little Target run to get a variety of items for my family. I promised my little niece a new Pokemon toy and a DVD for a sleep over. We also needed some grocery items. So off to Target we went. What other store can you get such a variety of things at in one stop? It's just way too convenient for those who love to shop. As we browsed the store for the items on our list, we were greeted with the most wonderful surprise...wait for it, it's the new Merona collection of handbags, accessories and shoes. When I was in the store two weeks ago, I noticed the Merona collection jackets, coats and dressed and praised them in a previous post, but somehow I missed all the accessories. Check out the display above of the fabulous shoes and handbags. This collection is so high-end looking, it out does past designer collaborations (I'm thinking of Grayson) that Target has spent alot more money promoting. Check out the beautiful blue and white handbag below and the gorgeous pink, white and blue silk scarf above. I snatched up that pretty pink and blue 100% silk scarf for my mom pronto. I was already thinking Mother's Day when I saw that one!

Pictured: Target's Blue and White Merona Collection Handbag

This blue and white purse really does look as good in person as the photo from the Target website. Check Target's stock photo above compared to my own photo of the bag below. It looks much more expensive than the $39.99 price tag.

Pictured: Up closed: Target's Blue and White Merona Collection Handbag with expensive looking hardware

And just when I thought it couldn't get any better, I discovered there were Merona shoes in this collection too.
Check out these fab-u-less flats. These remind me of Coco Chanel's ballet shoe style with the padded front toe, and the blue and white color pattern.

These elegant looking shoes come in the two different patterns to match the navy and pink dresses in the collection. Priced at only $29.99, these are on my list of The Recessionista's Top Picks for spring.

I have to give it up to Target for this collection. I got my niece's Pokemon toy, a gift for my mom and some great fashion finds in under 20 minutes. That's just the type of budget-friendly Friday shopping run that every fashionista/recessionista needs!

To see more of what Target's got in house for spring style, check out this player from FlipGloss of the Target Spring Collection. There are 31 images here for you to enjoy. Target prices are listed in the player for you to check out.


For more details go to FlipGloss

If you're reading from outside the US, enjoy the show and look for the Target items on eBay. Most of them will find their way there. :)

My, My, My Merona: The Collection Full of Pretty Things for Spring

Where Recessionistas Go To Pray: Sponsored Spa Events

At the Altar of the Spa: Where Recessionistas Gather to Pray to Receive Free Spa Services. (All photos by M. Hall)

Recently, I attended the Pamper Me Fabulous Spa event held in downtown Los Angeles, California in a unique venue: St. Vibana's Cathedral. How fitting, and ironic that in these recessionary times, the restored former church would host a new type of prayer gathering: ladies praying for complimentary spa treatments. I have read several surveys noting that even in these tough times, people might be cutting back on dining out and clothing, but they are still investing in personal care, spa treatments and gym memberships. As a result, I see a trend of these types of events springing up all over the globe. Having attended a few of these now, I think these are a good idea. You pay a flat rate for a ticket to enter the event and wander from spa station to station hoping to get an appointment. Pamper Me Fabulous offered skin care, hair care, massages and some facial treatments. All appointments were offered on a first come first serve basis. The event was sponsored by Spa Magazine and Pasadena Magazine among others. My advice to Recessionistas looking to make the best use of an event like this one is two fold:

1) Get there early, because if you arrive late all the "free treatments" will be booked up and you will have to go without. If the event starts at noon, get there at noon. If you are more than 45 minutes in arriving, you may loose the opportunity to get your treatments and wander around reading magazines and sipping cocktails.

2) Team with a favorite gal pal so that you can have someone help you scout the event and sign-up for as many appointments as possible. Go with a definite plan of attack. This is a guerrilla operation. You need to have all your Recessionistas or BFFs with you and working it. For example, have one Recessionista sign you up for hair treatments while another compadre runs to sign you up for massages, and another runs to get you all slots at the facial table. You need to work as a team to get the most out of your paid admission price for the event. Pamper Me Fabulous ticket prices ran to $100.00 for VIPs , who received priority sign-ups for treatments. Those who paid the general admission $35.00 ticket price had to scurry to get appointments, as they were first come, first serve.

Pictured: Lucky Recessionistas who scored Massages take over St. Vibiana's confessional area. Is this the new Recession Confession? I'd love to know what the Pope thinks of this. As someone raised in the Catholic Church, I was surprised to see a former Cathedral as a spa event venue.

Pictured: Pamper Me Fabulous attendees wait in the vestibule for their appointments.

Pictured: Tell me your hair care sins, and all will be forgiven. A stylist works on a client at the old confessional station in the transformed St. Vibiana's.

To learn more about sponsored spa events in your area, there are a number of good resources you can consult. First up, take a look at the SpaFinder event website listing. They have a good listing of events from around the globe. They have listing for events on their international sites for France ,Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Another great resource is Google, just run a search for spa events in your city and review the results. You'll be amazed how these events are springing up quicker than our investments are dropping! :)

If you are reading from the US, Sassy City Chicks will be offering some upcoming Fashion Events featuring complimentary spa treatments. The next upcoming event is March 29, in Marina Del Rey, California.



To learn more about Sassy City Chicks' schedule of events in New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas, check their website. If you find a good spa event in your city, please post it in a blog comment so that all Recessionistas can benefit!

Where Recessionistas Go To Pray: Sponsored Spa Events

Loehmann's Launches "Loehmannomics " and Dior Sunglasses Go On Sale

As some Recessionista readers may remember, last month I took you on a guided tour of my local Loehmanns' store. I was literally skipping through the aisles of fashionable bargains. There was everything from great jewelry, to Betseyville luggage to high-end designer clothing from Tori Burch and Cynthia Steffe. This month Loehmann's has even more fashions including Jill Sander, Carolina Herrera, Stella McCartney and Theory (check their website for locations.) And best of all, they are offering a 15% off coupon good until March 22nd. How good is that? Perfect for a little weekend recreation. Attached is the coupon for your use. Check Loehmanns' website for store locations across the US and Canada.

Pictured: Loehmanns' 15% off coupon

If you're reading from a country without a Loehmann's , The Recessionista doesn't want you to go into discount fashion withdrawal. Check out the Dior sunglasses sale at Beyond the Rack. The sunglasses are offered for as much as 65% off retail and they are for men and women. Beyond the Rack ships worldwide, so this sale is not exclusive to readers in the US and Canada. I have to let my favorite shopper and fellow blogger 00o00 know.

Pictured: The Dior sunglasses sale at Beyond the Rack

Good savings and good shopping!

Loehmann's Launches "Loehmannomics " and Dior Sunglasses Go On Sale

March Madness: Special Events, Sales and More

As we spring forward into March there are some great sales and events I want to let readers know about.

First up, Bobbi Brown cosmetics is having a 25% off sale. Check their website for details. I've been using their products for years. I started using their lipstick a couple of years ago when they were not on the list of brands with lead in lipstick. If you use their cosmetics, now is a good time to restock and get some savings.


The next item I want to let my readers know about is Hayden-Harnett's upcoming "Spring Sip, Shop, and Style event." Their NY store is offering Recessionistas the opportunity to get styled by the designers, sip mimosas & bubbly, enjoy appetizers and take 20% off all purchases this Saturday March 21 2009
From 12-6pm at Hayden-Harnett, 253 Elizabeth street. This is my kind of event, where ever there is free Champagne or Mimosas my name is ON the guest list!!!



And finally, the Piperlime week of treats continues with an offer of Rachel Zoe's Style Guide book with purchase. I recently received a copy of the book and although I would not say all the styles shown are Recessionista friendly, it's definitely a source of ideas and information. And, I have to admit it's fun light reading. There are so many pretty pictures in it that it's interesting to flip through. If you are interested, check out Rachel Zoe's Style Guide on Amazon to see what reviewers have said. If you think it's of interest, and there is a great item at Piperlime you love, this is a good opportunity to double dip from their sale and get a free style book.

And just for a smile, check out the news that Oasis' Liam Gallagher is starting a fashion label. This I can't wait to see. I'm such an Oasis fan. In the words of Noel, "the little things they make me so happy." I look forward to a runway show!



Enjoy!

March Madness: Special Events, Sales and More

The Recessionista's Op-Ed: In Defense of the Recessionista Nation. Don't Hate, Congratulate!

Recently, on the ides of March to be precise, The Washington Post printed a fascinating Op-Ed piece entitled: "I'm Not Buying Recession Chic ." Then today, another riffle shot in the dissing of the good Recessionista name rang out via the NPR Talk of the Nation show via a segment entitled "Frugal Chic' Shouldn't Be For Everyone." Naturally, the hair on the back of my neck stood up as I listened to the bashing of the good Recessionista moniker via this esteemed US radio program. Normally, I stand unflappable on matters of who is a fashionista and who is a recessionista and who is frugal and who is not. After all, these are individual choices. I have made a choice to go Recessionista here on my humble blog and share my opinions. However, I do find it humorous when a leading newspaper takes the time to discuss it. I enjoyed Kelly Marages' piece immensely. She's a very good writer. There's nothing more stimulating than a good lead in about using Tupperware. However, I was surprised by her characterization of Recessionistas. She writes, "Enter the "recessionista." Whereas a year ago this person may have attended the gala du jour in a brand new designer frock, she's now wearing one recycled from the back of her closet" in her piece, " I'm Not Buying Recession Chic."



So, I must respectfully dispute this definition of Recessionistas. I was never one to go to the gala du jour in a new designer frock. However, I was one who cheerfully paid retail and ate out at restaurants on a regular basis. I didn't do this because I was a spendthrift. I made these choices because I was busy working a demanding full-time job with very long hours. I didn't want to take the time to cook, or hunt around for the best deals or stand in line to get a better price. My whole philosphy was , I am tired from working so I want to do what is easy for me when shopping. How many professionals can relate to that choice? If you're tired from a 12 to 14 hour work day, it's so much easier to breeze into Nordstroms, get your goods, and get out in about five minutes. And forget clipping coupons, I was too busy to do any of that. I traveled about 50,000 frequent flyer miles a year for business.


But the times they are a changin' in this pesky old recession. I decided to go Recessionista because I want to do a little more saving. By looking for better prices on items I commonly buy, whether it's fashion, wine or a great dinner, I am indeed able to save a bit more. So before you give me a heaping serving of "hater tots" for this ephipany, hear me out.



There's a new set of consumers now thinking of going frugal, and I say "don't hate, congratulate." It doesn't matter how people come to being frugal. What matters is that we give them some tools and pointers to practice smart saving, that don't leave them feeling deprived in tough economic times. My goal is to make it easy for people to find coupon codes and bargains via the magic of the Internet. The idea is to encourage people to put back INTO the economy, but to be smart about their spending. This is the purpose of my blog, The Recessionista.

After all, if everyone stops buying everything, there will be no economic stimulus. Think about it, this economy needs the Recessionistas as surely as the desert need the rains. Frugal Chic is indeed for everyone. Bring it Recessionistas!

The Recessionista's Op-Ed: In Defense of the Recessionista Nation. Don't Hate, Congratulate!

Everybody Put Your Hands-Up: Target Clearance and Piperlime's Week of Treats!

March Madness is really kicking off this week with a couple of great sales. First up, Piperlime is kicking off a full "week of treats" for their readers with 20% off everything in the online store. Just enter the word "Treat" at check out the sale and enjoy the savings. The sale includes items for Women, Men, Girls and Boys. Of special interest to Recessionistas are all the great shoes and Rachael Zoe's picks. Take a look at the real steals sections with everything under $60.00. Be sure to check the Gap site for more great deals. I don't know about you, but I'm shopping for a cheap and cheerful green item for St. Patrick's day (3/17) tomorrow.

More great March deals can be found over at US retailer Target. I just snapped up this pair of Dean Harris earrings for $9.99!!! What a great deal. They are sold out online, but look for them in Target stores where the entire Dean Harris collection is on clearance.
Pictured: The final sale on Dean Harris jewlery at Target stores around the US. I bought these earrings.

Also hitting the clearance racks at Target are the Hayden-Harnett items. Everything in the collection in now reduced by 30%. I finally picked up the cute little umbrella for $16.99 that I had my eye on. The handbags are also reduced, although some are no longer available online, but can still be found in store.

Pictured: Hayden Harnett handbags and umbrellas now on sale for 30% off at Target stores around the US.

If you're reading from outside the US, check the Gap and Piperlime sites in your geography for savings.
The Hayden Harnett items can already be found on eBay, where sellers are shipping worldwide.

Everybody Put Your Hands-Up: Target Clearance and Piperlime's Week of Treats!

Beware the Ides of March: Two Sales of Note

Pictured: The James Jeans sale from International shopping club Beyond the Rack.

Good morning Recessionistas around the globe! It's March 15th, also known as the "Ides of March." Some of you may remember the soothsayer's warning to Julius Caesar from Shakespeare, "Beware the Ides of March." I would rephrase this for my dear readers to say "Beware the sales of March! ":)

There are two nice sales today that you might want to check out on casual clothes and jeans. First up, International shopping club Beyond the Rack is selling high-end jeans maker James Jeans today at a nice discount. The club ships to customers in the US, Canada, Europe (including the Netherlands, France, UK) and beyond. Click here to shop the sales and join the club as my guest. I routinely receive requests from my readers about where to find good jeans. This is especially of concern to readers outside the US, where the prices on jeans are much higher than the prices in the United States. So, I want to pass on this jeans sale to readers around the globe.

The next Ides of March sale of note, is the 30% off sale today at Gap stores.(Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic.)

Pictured: a 30% off coupon good for today's sale at Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic.

Today is the last day to use the 30% off coupon, so if there is something that you'd have your eye, today might be a good day to snap it up and receive extra savings. Check the Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic websites and stores in your geography to see if the coupon is good. Gap sells around the globe in the US, Canada, the UK, Europe and Asia. I'm going to be shopping some of Patrick Robinson's Gap dresses today for additional savings. The Rosette V-neck T that I recommended for Valentine's day has been reduced. and have many of the sweaters, jeans and floral tops. I also like this double breasted sweater on sale today.

Let me know if you find anything you like at either sale. Good luck and good shopping!

Beware the Ides of March: Two Sales of Note

From Los Angeles with Love: LA Fashion Week Kicks off on Friday the 13th

Pictured: The skyline of downtown Los Angeles and the announcement of LA Fashion Week

Tomorrow is Friday the 13th, traditionally an omen of bad luck for the superstitious. But not for a Recessionista like me. There's nothing unlucky about the start of LA Fashion Week. Yes, Recessionistas we have our very own fashion week twice a year (March and October) to highlight all the cool creations from the left coast. Although this year's menu may feature McDonald's McCafe as the beverage of choice rather than sparkling champagne, it's very much worth checking out. There are a couple of reasons. One is just the spectacle of beauty in the art of fashion. Some of my favorites like Cynthia Steffe will be showing. There will also be up and coming designers showing. These talents bring us refreshing ideas about how to spruce up for spring. And once you have those ideas, well then you are off an running to look for lower priced versions if you like the look but don't like the price. Or, if you have the courage to be frugal you can just wait until the following season when some of the stuff will show up at Loehmann's Back Room. Check the calendar of events to see what coming up for the next week. LA Fashion District where the event occurs is a rather special place and holds some excellent deals for locals. There's the California Mart (open at special times to the general public) and the overall Fashion District always open on Saturday for retail shopping. The LA Fashion District is a bargain hunter's paradise, with over 1,000 stores that sell to the general public at discounted prices. Shoppers can expect to find bargains of 30% to 70% off of retail prices on apparel and accessories for the entire family, plus textiles and flowers. If you are reading from Los Angeles, you should go check out the deals downtown. Click here to learn about sample sales in the district.


Another surprising Friday 13th event that will be available online to Recessionistas all over the US, is Gilt's sale of Perricone MD skincare products tomorrow. My sister and I both use Perricone products and take the vitamins. If you have used Perricone, you know the product can sometimes be pricey. So I'm excited to see what the Gilt Groupe will offer tomorrow. Click here to join Gilt to shop the sale as my guest.

Pictured: Gilt Groupe's Friday the 13th Sale on Perricone MD Skincare Products

If you're reading from outside the US, check out the Perricone website for deals. Perricone ships internationally, so you will be able to enjoy the products. When shopping their website, use the coupon code offered for additional discounts.

Pictured: A coupon code from the Perricone MD website

Today's Gilt sale also features LA designer favorite, the fabulous Trina Turk.

Pictured: Trina Turk fashions at today's Gilt Groupe sale.

Bon Fetes Recessionistas.
Don't let a black cat cross your path on Friday the 13th. Remember, stick closely to the sides of the bargain aisles :) for safety's sake.

It's Friday the 13th after all. Superstition is the way!

From Los Angeles with Love: LA Fashion Week Kicks off on Friday the 13th

The Shoe Stimulus Package: Special Sales for the Shoe-a-holic

Pictured: The Hayden-Harnett shoe sale and special order code: "shoe me"

Shoes are something I haven't really talked about a lot on the blog. That's because I'm very picky about my shoes. After all, they must not only be fashionable but comfortable for walking. That's why I have to give a special shout out to the Hayden-Harnett shoe sale. These are good quality shoes with styles in flats, heels and boots. The sale is on from now until the "ides" of March, that is March 15th. Use the special code "shoe me" to get an extra 25% off.

Recently, I scored one of the best pairs of shoes in the world at The Yellow Brick Road Consignment Store in Carmel, CA. This store is such a treasure trove. I just picked up a wonderful and well cared for pair of Salvatore Ferragamo shoes at the store. The previous owner obviously cared for these with love.

Pictured: A consignment store treasure, navy Salvatore Ferragamo pumps.

Pictured: The price is right: classic navy Salvatore Ferragamo pumps "pre-owned" for $14.00 US.

These shoes feature heel taps and front "plates" which kept the soles in like new condition. Remember Recessionistas, if you care for your shoes, you can extend their life (it helps if they are good shoes like Ferragamo, don't try this on synthetic leather.)

So here are a few simple shoe tips :

1) Shop a great sale like Hayden-Harnett and then double dip with a coupon code. Also, watch for Hayden to go on sale at Target soon, since they are officially departing mid-March.

2) Where ever you are in the world, look for good shoe deals at upscale consignment stores near you. Run a Google search in your area to find them, then check their reviews online with a source like Yelp!

The Shoe Stimulus Package: Special Sales for the Shoe-a-holic