SNEAK PREVIEW: Sonia Rykiel pour H&M

Pictured: Sonia Rykiel for H&M Holiday Lingerie

Looking for something naughty and nice? Then you're in luck. We have a preview for your of the forthcoming goodies from Sonia Rykiel for H&M. The pictures remind me of classic vintage lingerie. Take a look and let me know what you think. The launch is coming up at the Grand Palais in Paris, but you can watch it all online. Tune in to www.hm.com on Tuesday December 2 at 5p.m. EST/2 pm PST to see the whole event. I can't wait to see the collection. This is the perfect foundation for my Jimmy Choo wear from H&M! :)

Pictured: Pretty in Pink, this is not your grandmother's garter belt :)

Pictured: Lacey n' Racey

Pictured: The Striped Chemise

Pictured: The bra avec rosette with lounging pants or shorts

Look for the collection to be in-stores on December 5, 2009. The collection will be launched in 1,500 H&M stores worldwide and at the same time, Sonia Rykiel will make this lingerie collection available in Sonia Rykiel’s major boutiques around the world - another first for H&M.

SNEAK PREVIEW: Sonia Rykiel pour H&M

Cyber Monday Beckons: Tips for Shopping Safe and Deals

Tomorrow is technically the start of the shopping holiday known as Cyber Monday. This year I would say Cyber Monday is almost a "non-event." Why you may ask? Because so many of the stores started their online sales last week, at the same time as the in-store Black Friday sales.

Having said that, there are a few things for you to think of before you start full-on Cyber shopping. The primary concern is safety. As a survivor of various cyber attacks and viruses, I can tell you first hand that you do need to be careful where you shop. The CyberMonday.org site recently provided some helpful tips for your consideration. Here's the 411 from Scott Silverman of the National Retail Federation and Shop.org.

Safety Suggestions:

• Be sure to shop on reputable, trust-worthy sites such as CyberMonday.com and its retail partners
• Just as you’re more careful when shopping in busy malls during the holiday, be more careful online as well
• AVG offers free downloads of virus scan and link scan here: www.shop.org/shopsafely and http://free.avg.com/us-en/download-avg-anti-virus-free-edition
  

Cyber Security Tips:

• Look for the “S” for Security: Make sure the sites you are shopping from are secure and have “HTTPS” in the URL. The “S” ensures security. Also, look for the padlock symbol and research shopping sites at locations such as shopzilla.com and pricegrabber.com.

• Stay Current on Security Software: Make sure you have the latest virus protection software updates from your provider before you start your holiday shopping.
• Think Before You Link: Employ a URL scanning tool to ensure you’re not clicking on links that lead to infected websites. Free tool here: http://free.avg.com/us-en/download-avg-anti-virus-free-edition
• Keep Your Private Information Private: Make sure you keep your personal information private. Create a separate e-mail account just for shopping and use a unique password. Keep records of your online shopping by printing confirmation pages and e-mail confirmations.
• Mix Up Your Passwords: Each e-mail, bank, credit card account should have a unique password. Write them down and store them in a secure location.

Now that we have that silly old security and safety stuff out of the way, let's talk savvy shopping! Here are a few top picks.


NEW LOOK: They have a great holiday selection and they ship to many countries (UK, US, France, and more). The Sequin Jacket just went on sale online. I love it. Click here to check it out. Sign up for their email list to receive additional discount codes.

Pictured: New Look's Holiday Sequin Jacket just reduced.

If you missed out on some Jimmy Choo at H&M, then check the sequin jacket and of course, Giles GOLD. The Giles Holiday collection is amazing. Click here to see all the New Look special offers.

Macy's: free shipping on orders of $75 or more when you enter code CYBER at checkout.

Kohl's: The more you shop, the more you save. 15% off any order when you enter code CYBER15 at checkout with no minimum purchase, 15% off AND free standard shipping on your $75 order when you enter code CYBER15 at checkout and 20% off AND free standard shipping on your $100 order when you enter code CYBER20 at checkout

Bloomingdales: The Big Brown Sale is on. Look for the bargains on their website of 30-40% off.

JCrew.com: Mrs. Obama's fav chic n' cheap store is offering an additional 20% off holiday sale items with code EXTRA20, plus free shipping on purchases of $150 or more.

Pictured: J. Crew's Velvet Flower pin is now reduced to $14.99. This reminds me of a certain other flower pin. The style is similar to Chanel's classic Camellia Flower Pin Brooch below.

QVC: Jacqueline Kennedy jewelry reproductions. You can enjoy her exquisite taste for much less. The online reviews for the pieces are amazing! Check the collection here.

Pictured: Jacqueline Kennedy Flower Gate bracelet from QVC

Overstock.com: Savings in every category. And they ship almost worldwide, so everyone can enjoy the savings.

Amazon and Endless.com: Amazon is offering 60% off retail outerwear for Men, Women, and Kids, plus 15% off select Swiss Military Hanowa watches! Endless is featuring $30 off select $100 orders! (check site for details.)

Ann Taylor: 30% off, code is MONDAY.

DSW Shoes: Receive 25% on all items when shopping online. www.dsw.com Use code: SAVE25

Shopping Clubs (click one of the invites under The Recessionista's Top Picks)

Pictured: Free Scarf at Beyond the Rack today with $50 USD order

BeyondtheRack.com (code BTRACCESS): With every minimum $50 order placed on CyberMonday, the member receives a free Janie Besner scarf, which has a retail value of $40. Beyond the Rack ships to many countries outside the US, check the site for details.

GILT Man: 70% off retail value, brands such as Helly Hansen and Jan Leslie
GILT: Kate Spade Handbag sale starts at 9 am PST, noon EST.

HauteLook: Rachel Pally on sale.

For more deals, check my Black Friday list. Most of the deals (excepting doorbusters) are still going on.

One last Cyber Monday tip, if you are interested in a free gift certificate until Nov. 30, 2009, check out the Cyber Monday Facebook group to enter to win.

Cyber Monday Beckons: Tips for Shopping Safe and Deals

August Silk Homage to Chanel available at Macy's for under $50.00

Pictured: What do Beyonce, Victoria Beckham & I have in common?
Only one thing: Love for Chanel

As my regular blog readers know, I am a Chanel lover. My search for Chanel has taken me to consignment and thrift stores around the world, DecadesTwo in Los Angeles and numerous eBay listings. The search for Chanel for less is not for the faint of heart. Today I own six original Chanel pieces, all purchased pre-owned. Countless hours were expended in the search. And truly, this is the way the founder Coco wanted it. She wanted Chanel to be an exclusive luxury brand, not one accessible to the masses, and not one that anyone could own. Even in the midst of World War I, with many designers facing clothing shortages, Chanel was still selling at a premium price out of her exclusive boutique in the seaside town of Deauville, France. Just to get to Deauville to buy Chanel you had to be in a certain social strata. You had to be wealthy to enjoy this seaside town and Chanel's beautiful garments.

Pictured: Coco Chanel and Suzy Parker in LIFE Magazine in 1957. The Chanel garments in the photo still look fresh.

Today, things are different. Although Chanel is not budget priced, there are many Chanel "inspired garments" available for less. My find du jour is this August Silk cardigan at Macy's for less than $50.00! If you live outside of the US, look for August Silk at your local department store.

Pictured: Channeling Coco, August Silk Sweater at Macys.com is newly reduced to less than $50.00 USD. If you have a savings pass for Macy's, you can get a further discount.

Of course, there is no substitute for the beautiful tailoring of Chanel garment, but if you can't afford Chanel, its nice to be able to enjoy the look for less. I call it Coco-less. Earlier this year, Chanel successor Karl Lagerfeld noted the upside of the recession downside: an end to over the top excess. "Bling is over. Red carpet-y covered with rhinestones is out. I call it 'the new modesty.'" Or to state things more precisely, Le bling-bling, justement, est en disgrâce. Viva la Recessionista!

So I have to ask, will there ever be another H&M Lagerfeld collaboration, or at some point a real Coco for Less line?

August Silk Homage to Chanel available at Macy's for under $50.00

Black Friday Shopping: Float Like a Butterfly Sting Like a Bee for a Knock-Out Shopping Punch

Bargain shoppers, if you are out at the mall revelling in "Midnight Madness" shopping, I salute you. I'm here sitting quite comfortably in my jammies, just surfing the net, pointing and clicking. After last year's 5 hour Black Friday family shopping marathon, I am enjoying the comfort of this year's online shopping. For those of you gearing up for tomorrow, or maybe even out tonight, here are a few tips.

• Check the Store circulars, The Recessionista's list and www.theblackfriday.com website for the best deals. Make your list from the circulars and websites. Do the Doorbusters first (4 am to 5 am) then move on to the rest.
• Check your email before heading to the store, or from the store on your "crackberry" or other device. The stores are still e-mailing discount codes and posting to their Facebook groups with special deals.
• Have a look at the Washington Post's aggregated deal list from Twitter. This list has amazing information from all the retailers tweeting.
• Form your own team Recessionista. In the past, my sister-in-law and I have traded off various sections in the stores to get the Doorbusters. She goes for toys, I go for fashion/clothing.

Then next challenge is what to wear on the journey. Here are some things to think about. Some of the challenges a Black Friday shopper faces include:

• Going from cold temperatures outside to warm temperatures inside
• Trying on clothing efficiently
• Weaving your way through an overcrowded store
• Comfort for long hours

To help you survive, here are a few suggestions:

• Dressing in layers is the key to holiday shopping success. Get ready to wear take off sweaters and jackets in store. This will make it easy to stay cool in the store and warm in the parking lot.
• Wearing a puffy vest frees up your arms - easier to push the cart, reach for deals. You're also not trying to fight your way through a crowd in an oversized jacket.
• A slim fitting tank is a great piece to wear when out shopping. It layers well and is great for trying on blouses, jackets, blazers and more....just in case you spot that perfect holiday gift for yourself.
• Shoes are the key to staying comfortable for the entire shopping day. (Tip: check out the shoes at Kohl's for numerous options from slip-ons to flats.) My niece wears her Sketchers and I have been known to wear my PJ Clarks.

Pictured: Sketcher's comfy Mary Janes, available at Kohl's on sale.

• Just because you're up early, it doesn't mean you have to look like it - some foundation, mascara and lip gloss goes a long way.
• Don't let bedhead rule you! Wear a cute hat or scarf around the head. H&M, Kohl's Simply Vera and Kmart's Jaclyn Smith (even a French Beret) offer chic n' cheap chapeaus.
  

Remember, float like a butterfly and sting like a bee. Swarm in early for the savings, get in, be safe and get home to go back to bed. Don't spend all day at the mall buying stuff you don't need, that wasn't on the list.


P. S.: Try not to waste precious time in the mall lot looking for parking close to the storefront. This eats up doorbuster time. Just park it and go!

Black Friday Shopping: Float Like a Butterfly Sting Like a Bee for a Knock-Out Shopping Punch

Happy Thanksgiving

Pictured: A Vintage Thanksgiving Card from 1924

Happy Thanksgiving Dear Readers! Its time for relaxing, watching the Food Channel, cooking and maybe even wearing some expandable eating pants :) and loose clothes. I hope you have a wonderful day with your family and give thanks for the good things in your life!

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,

MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.

MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP.

MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS.

MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you're looking for Black Friday deals, click here to see the latest list.

Happy Thanksgiving

Black Friday Deals: A Man Made Monster Is On The Loose

Yes, friends a man-made monster is indeed on the loose and is coming to a city near you. Look out, its Black Friday, coming this Friday, Nov. 27th. This shopping catastrophe of in-store overcrowding is on the rampage. It will leave carnage in its wake and shoppers sleeping in their cars overnight. Although many stores already started their "Black Friday" deals early (ala Sears), many more are still to come. The contagion known as Black Friday takes over the mild mannered, luring them out to malls in the US at 4am and 5am, in a mad rush to get into the store early for door buster specials and promises like "the first 50 customers in the store will receive "...... fill in the blank.

Although the economy is still wobbly, and an overall wallet clampdown has been going on, many won't be able to resist the siren's call of Black Friday. If you are thinking of rousing yourself from a tryptophan (sleep inducing) turkey coma to head to the store, here is a little list of deals compiled via The Recessionista's radar system. I'm breaking it down into categories, to try to bring you the best savings. Here we go!

Fashion

H&M : Most H&M stores will open at 6am; some will open as early as 5am
Black Friday Specials:

• 25% off any item of your choice from opening until 10AM
• Fashion finds starting at $5 (example pricing included below)
• Select outerwear styles at 50% percent off

What you can expect at H&M:

• Ladies: Knitted shrugs from $24.95 to $5.00, Knitted dresses from $34.95 to $10.00, Party dresses from $39.95 to $15.00
• Men's: Patterned shirts from $29.95 to $10.00, Merino wool sweaters from $39.95 to $15.00, Knit pullovers from $24.95 to $10.00
• Kids: Little girls sweaters $17.95 to $5.00: Little Boys trousers from $17.95 to $5.00
• Ladies/Men's (Unisex): Winter knit accessories $14.95 to $5.00

Kohl's: Literally there is something for everyone at this sale. Clothing and accessories for the entire family and all ages. There are 300 Black Friday preview deals posted at Kohl's.com. Click here to check them! Look for discounts on Simply Vera, Dana and more.

Martin + Osa: On Thanksgiving weekend, Martin + Osa will be offering all denim (regularly priced at $89.50 - $120) and cashmere (regularly priced at $130 – $170) at a special promotional price of $59 each. The in-store sale starts on November 27 and at 12am on November 26 on the website. I don't own any Martin and Osa denim, but they sent me a sample of one of their silk scarves, and it is 2die4! :)

Ann Taylor Loft: Sale already in progress. Check out their $29.50 style steals and use code TURKEY at checkout. There is lots of holiday bling jewelery ala Heidi Klum. And if you missed the Jimmy Choo sequined tank top at H&M, then Ann has something special for you. Check out this Sequin tank (available in silver, gold and black) for $59.50 USD.

Pictured: Holiday Cheer from Ann Taylor Loft ($59.50 )

Loehmann's: Their sale is early, Nov. 25th. You'll save an extra 20% off of their already low prices. Click here to see the coupon. Love me some Loehmann's. I wore an Alice Temperley dress I picked up at Loehmann's to the Stevie Awards.

Tracy Porter: The website is having a 50% off clearance. Check her beautiful designs for the holidays. Some are truly amazing, and her prices have never been lower.

Macy's: Savings throughout the store. Also, clip the savings pass on their website. Check their website to see 250 items that will be on sale at 5 am at Macys.com and in-store. More deals are coming the week of Dec. 2nd. Did you get your friends and family discount cards in the mail today? I did. I am going to Macy's next week for that! I have my eye on this INC. Cardigan. Does this not look like Coco Chanel?

Pictured: Coco-Less, Macy's INC. Fringe Trim Cardigan Sweater is $89.00

JCPenney: Savings on Nicole Miller, Ronson and Bisou Bisou. Check their Facebook contest for a chance to score a shopping spree.

GAP: The Gap will offer a buy-one, get-one-free sale for adult sweaters, kid's fleeces, and pajama pants beginning November 25.

BCBG: Check the online final cut outlet. Look for savings in-store too, on quality items.

Espirt: Esprit Retail Stores will be opening early and offering 50% before 12pm and 40% off after. Check the Espirt website for details.

Betsey Johnson: 40% off everything in the online store (excluding jewelry, and select other items, check restrictions) from November 27-30.

Nordstrom's Rack: Take add'l 25% off women’s & men’s sweaters. 11/27 only. Handbags & small leather goods. Select styles from best brands, 29.97–249.97, compare @ 55.00–495.00.

Check their Facebook page for details.

Saks Fifth Ave: 8 AM - Noon in Saks stores (all day Thursday and Friday at saks.com)-Up to 60% off original prices on selections for her & him, Get a $25 Gift Card when you spend $100 on cosmetics/fragrances. Get $100 off when you spend $400 in women's contemporary, 40% off select coats and 50% off holiday food.

Shoes & Handbags

Nine West is offering great savings in stores and on site. Beginning at 5am online on Friday November 27th, the Bonfire, Polen, Husky and Mezmorize styles (NW.com) will be 50% off until 11 am. After 11 am, the styles will still be 30% off. Additionally, Nine West is partnering with St Jude Children's Research Hospital for the 6th consecutive year. Donate $1 or more in store or at NineWest.com, you'll receive a coupon for 20% off your next purchase in January.

Endless.com: 30% off Reg. Price Boots, Slippers, and Accessories – over 9,000 styles from over 100 brands!

Big Box Stores:

Walmart: Check their online site for the post on the coming savings. Most of it will be offered online, as well as in-store. Look for the Norma Kamali collection in-store. There are new swimsuits and holiday items online now. This is the best of Wally, the NK stuff.

Best Buy: I haven't looked through their entire ad, but I have to mention their Apple Mac sale. Tomorrow, Nov. 25th, is the last day. The prices on Macs are cheaper than at the Apple store. And if you are a teacher/educator, ask if you can receive an additional discount :) The Macs are cheaper today and tomorrow, than they will be on Black Friday! Check for instant discounts across the entire Mac product line.

Sears: Black Friday deals start at 9pm EST Nov. 25th on their website.

Kmart: Check out the cashmere in the Jaclyn Smith collection just top-rated by Real Simple Magazine. Their website is offering extra savings of 50% off of Toys, specials on Electronics and more. Check the Kmart site homepage for details.

Kohl's: The store's entire stock of videogames will be discounted 20% to 30%. Items normally $19.99 to $24.99 will be $15.99 to $19.99.


Cosmetics:

JC Penney has Sephora Door Busters starting at 4 am. They have a gift set for just $15.00 chock full of goodies.

Avon: They just sent me some sample of their Couture Color Cosmetics from their U by Unargo line. Who knew Avon had Unargo cosmetics? I am loving the face powder. There are also lipsticks, but they only come in 3 colors right now. The prices are reasonable and the quality is good, on the level of more expensive brands like Estee Lauder and Clinique. There is a special offer of a key fob with purchase.

Pictured: Avon's U by Unargo face powder. Luxury for Less.

Doorbusters:

Loehmann's: Doors open 6am on Friday & 8am on Saturday (Paramus, NJ stores open at 7am on Friday.) Expect Thanksgiving deals at up to 84% off department store prices. The first 400 customers in store Friday & Saturday receive a $25 coupon good on a purchase of $50 or more!* (Check Loehmann's website for details.)

Old Navy will offer doorbusters, including a free Rock Band guitar for the first few customers in line on Thanksgiving Day, $15 sweaters, and 50 percent off outerwear.

Victoria's Secret will have "Pink Friday" specials beginning at 5 a.m. on Black Friday, with select stores opening at midnight. A "free" Victoria Secret tote is offered with a $60 purchase.

Bath & Body Works will offer a VIP Bag that contains over $100 worth of products for $15 with a $40 purchase in its stores. The doors open at 6 a.m.

Toys "R" Us: $50 gift card with the purchase of an iPod touch. Be prepared for long wait times in store and at the register if you do this one. It takes longer to purchase than to get your doorbuster item, that is how long the lines are! If you are willing to face it because of love for the kids, then visit the Toys "R" Us Facebook page at midnight on November 23 or take a look at 100 additional "Mystery Deals" on Toysrus.com at midnight on November 25. Get prepared. You need to check the deals before you stand in the cold in line at the Toys R Us with the "dedicated" eBayers.

Outlets:

Los Angeles: Midnight Madnesss

Camarillo and Desert Hills Premium Outlets Kick Off Black Friday

With Stores Opening at Midnight on Nov. 27th.

For a complete listing of promotions for the whole weekend visit: Camarillo and Desert Hills outlet websites.

Check for Premium or Chelsea Outlets in your area to see if they are having midnight madness specials.

Sponsored Links:

FREE PEOPLE: Holiday Outfits Shop and Sale Items

KOHL's BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

• 40-50% Off Entire Stock Dana Buchman Collections
• 40-50% Off Entire Stock Apt. 9 Sportswear
• 10-50% Off Entire Stock Sharper Image
• 10-25% Off Selected Kitchen Electrics
• 40-50% Off Entire Stock St. Nicholas Square Trim-A-Tree

AMAZON Black Friday Deals, November 23 through November 30.


Barnes and Noble:

• Hundreds of the hottest DVDs at Special Black Friday prices - most 50% off or more! Dates: 11/24-11/30
• Holiday Gift Guide - Save up to 45% on the season's best gifts!

Arden B: Enjoy Free Shipping on all orders over $15 at Ardenb.com
End Date: November 26, 2009 - December 18, 2009



AVON:

• Bernard the Polar Bear Holiday Stocking $1.99 with any $10 purchase
• NATURALS Pomegranate & Mango 5pc Bath Set: All 5 for $10!
• GLAZEWEAR Lip Gloss Regular: $6.00 Lowest Price EVER: $2.49

Endless: Free Shipping & Returns


That's all folks!

Black Friday Deals: A Man Made Monster Is On The Loose

Norma Kamali All in One Top Facebook Giveaway: HOW MANY WAYS CAN YOU WEAR THE ALL IN ONE?

Pictured: The Normal Kamali Contest for an All in One Tunic has begun!

The Norma Kamali All in One Top/Tunic/Dress has been a classic for years. Its easy to see why. The top is versatile, comfortable and chic. To celebrate the holidays, Norma Kamali collection is holding a contest on their Facebook page. To enter, you need to show NK all the ways you can wear your fabulous All in One Top by uploading a photo on Facebook. Check out the video on my YouTube Channel for some pointers. Here is the contest information.

1. POST PHOTOS OF YOURSELF ON THE NORMA KAMALI FACEBOOK FAN PAGE SHOWING HOW MANY WAYS YOU STYLED THE ALL IN ONE. FEEL FREE TO SHOW THEM WITH DIFFERENT ACCESSORIES.

2. ENTER THE CONTEST AND YOU WILL RECEIVE A WELLNESS GIFT FROM NORMA KAMALI WITH YOUR PURCHASE OF THE ALL IN ONE TUNIC. GET IT NOW ON www.normakamalie.com

3. NORMA WILL PICK THE WINNER FOR BEST STYLIST SHOWING THE MOST CREATIVE WAYS TO WEAR THE ALL IN ONE TUNIC, FROM www.normakamalie.com

4. THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE A $500 CLOTHING GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR ANY STYLE ON www.normakamalie.com

5. NORMA WILL PRESENT THE GIFT CERTIFICATE VIA SKYPE. THIS WILL BE A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO ASK HER QUESTIONS AND OFFER SUGGESTIONS.

Contest Ends

December 16, 2009 @ 09:32 am (PST)

Need more Details?

Read the Official Rules

Pictured: The All in One Jersey Dress from Norma Kamali for Walmart. Price is $24.99 USD.

Norma Kamali All in One Top Facebook Giveaway: HOW MANY WAYS CAN YOU WEAR THE ALL IN ONE?

The Recessionista Recovery Program Holiday Survey: How do you Buy? One for you, Two for ME?

Pictured: Tis the season for shopping addiction, cartoon from comments Junkie.com

Hello readers, my name is Mary, and I've been shopping for 30 yrs..... I come here every holiday season. I continually face the struggle of trying to shop smart and stay within my budget. This blog is my own The Recessionista's Recovery program. Everyday I work on this here at The Recessionista. As you know, my shopping struggle is never-ending. Temptation abounds as sale signs scream out to me, and try to lure my money out of my wallet. Sometimes I simply can not look away as the prices continue to fall.

Sound familiar? Have you ever gone to the store fully intending to shop for others, but ended up instead, shopping for yourself. Do your palms sweat sometimes as you collect the coupons and flip the Black Friday ads. Recessionistas, have you had to STEP AWAY from the Sales Rack ? :) If so, you have come to the right place! Even in a tough economy sometimes it can be difficult to curb our appetite for bargains and fashion in order to focus on the giving part of the season. A site called LifeTuner, is working to develop financial guidance, tools and tips for young adults plus monitor holiday shopping habits. To help us access our habits, the site is taking a survey called Shopaholic Shock Therapy. Naturally, this is a collection of data that is near and dear to my heart. You can take the survey, by clicking here. Below are the sample questions. You do not need to enter any personal information to take the survey. When the results are in, I'll be sharing them here on The Recessionista to let us know how we are doing with the eternal question: Is it better to give or to receive?

Here are the questions. Let us know you thoughts!

1. Do you tend to spend more money shopping online or in stores during the holidays?
* Online
* In stores

2. Do you buy more for yourself or for family and friends on Black Friday?
* Myself
* Family and friends

3. Do you ever buy something just because it's a good deal?
* Yes, I sometimes buy things I may not need because they are good deals.
* No, I never buy things I may not need just because they are good deals.

4. Do you ever spend more than you originally intend to shopping at Black Friday or holiday sales?
* Yes
* No

5. Do you plan to shop on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?
* Yes
* No
* Both

6. How are you going to pay for your holiday shopping? (This is the toughest question)!
* Put it on a credit card and pay-off next year
* I have money saved up
* Not sure


Feel free to post a comment too and let us all know your thoughts.

Stay tuned this week as I attempt to guide you to the best deals and savvy spending. Watch for posts on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Designer Deals, Midnight Madness and more!

Pictured: Note Pad from Henri Bendi summarizing my shopping struggle: One for you, two for me. It happens :)

The Recessionista Recovery Program Holiday Survey: How do you Buy? One for you, Two for ME?

Anna Sheffield for Target Goes on Sale! Plus Cythia Vincent and Eugenia Kim announced for Spring 2010

Pictured: Patience is a Virtue: Anna Sheffield Jewelry Hits the Target Sales Racks

I've always said that patience in shopping is a virtue. I really liked the Anna Sheffield jewelry when it originally hit Target shelves, but I have a problem paying $50.00 for jewelry from Target. So good news, the whole collection has just gone on sale as part of a bigger Target jewelry sale slashing prices until Dec. 26th. Check out some of the items. I can just see this on a Bronte heroine (think Jane Eyre).

Pictured: Anna Sheffield's Target Scissors Locket. I could see this on Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte or any of their heroines. The retails price was $49.99, it's now $34.99.

Pictured: Anna Sheffield's Target filigree earrings are now $17.49.

Check the reviews on the Target site before you order. Its always good to see what other reviewers think, before you purchase.

Next up from Target designer collections, two new designers are signed for Spring 2010 collections for shoes and hats.

• Cynthia Vincent : Target is partnering with designer Cynthia Vincent to launch a limited-edition footwear collection, Cynthia Vincent for Target. The Cynthia Vincent for Target collection will be available at Target stores nationwide and online at April 18 through July 1, 2010.
• Eugenia Kim: Target is partnering with accessory designer Eugenia Kim to launch a limited-edition hat collection, Eugenia Kim for Target. This collection is the first hat launch in a series of limited-time-only accessory designers at Target. The Eugenia Kim for Target collection will be available at select Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com from April 18 through June 20, 2010.

Anna Sheffield for Target Goes on Sale! Plus Cythia Vincent and Eugenia Kim announced for Spring 2010

Jimmy Choo Holiday Contest: You, Your Shoes and 72

Jimmy Choo and Elton John AIDS Foundation have launched a photo competition to support the launch of Project PEP, a charity collection that donates 25% of sales to the Simelela Rape Centre in South Africa . The money goes towards providing the HIV-preventative treatment PEP (which must be taken within 72 hours of exposure to HIV) and counselling to victims of rape in South Africa, which has the highest count of rape in the world. To help raise awareness Jimmy Choo is asking readers to enter a competition on a special website, and upload pictures of them in their favorite Jimmy Choos. The theme of the photo competition is ‘You, Your Shoes and 72.



The offer is a Grand Prize of the ultimate Jimmy Choo VIP experience – the winner will be invited to spend a day of luxury and the Jimmy Choo HQ and choose 7 pairs of shoes and 2 handbags to keep. Plus over 100 exclusive Jimmy Choo prizes will also be awarded. How is that for a fabuless holiday present to yourself? :) The overall winners will be announced after the competition closes on the 7^th December, in just a few weeks’ time.

The contest is a nice follow-up to all the excitement generated by the Jimmy Choo for H&M Collection. May the best Recessionista win! There's nothing like the combination of fashion and charity to warm a frugal fashionista's heart!

Jimmy Choo Holiday Contest: You, Your Shoes and 72

Kohl's Power Hour offer Holiday Savings

Pictured: The Simply Vera Holiday Collection is in during the Power Hours Sale

Quite innocently, I stumbled into a sale at Kohl's tonight when I ventured out to get a present for my little niece. To my surprise, the store was buzzing and the holiday shoppers were out. They had a good reason, Kohl's power hours are on this weekend. Its a good time to save throughout the store pre-Black Friday Madness. The Power Hours started today, but they continue tomorrow, Saturday. Here's the 411. Shop Saturday, Nov. 21 online from 12am to 4PM (EST), in-store 6am to 1pm (local time) and enjoy 60% off on select items for men, women and juniors. Look for Power Hours to continue throughout the holiday shopping season on Fridays and Saturdays.

One of the best discoveries at my Kohl's is the new Simply Vera holiday collection. There are sequined tops, gorgeous handbags, green and red holiday jewelry and some great dresses. New items have also been added to the Lauren Conrad (LC) and Dana Buchman collections. Here are a few highlights.

Pictured: Simply Vera Red Floral Dress for Holiday Parties.

Pictured: The Simply Vera Red Dress paired with the Dana Buchman Gold Tone Crystal Necklace. The necklace is $22.50.

Pictured: Tres Chic, the Simply Vera Sequin Top Shimmers.

Pictured: New Lauren Conrad Dolman Sleeved Black Sweater, wearable year round.

Pictured: The Kohl's Candie's Piped Trimmed Colorblock Coat. Black and White never goes out of style.

Pictured: No, it's not a Chanel Quilted Bag, but Candie's Quilted Bag at Kohl's for $19.99. Coco-less.

Click here to see further bargains during Saturday's power hours. If you're an early riser, you can definitely benefit by savings at the store in the morning hours. Or you can point and click from home in your PJs, either way you can save a little.

Check their website, but most Kohl's are opening early throughout the holiday season, and closing late. Some stores are open until midnight throughout the season!

Kohl's Power Hour offer Holiday Savings

Frugalicious Holiday Treats: Lighten Up the Thanksgiving Table But Not Your Wallet

Tonight the folks that enclose those helpful coupon supplements in the Sunday newspapers, RedPlum, treated a group of bloggers to a party featuring frugal holiday ideas for decorating your Thanksgiving table and later your Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year's celebrations. Some fabuless wines, all under $20.00 , were also featured. Naturally, I felt it was my duty to sample these wines and give you all an update. Not all the featured goodies were Recessionista worthy, but there are a few standouts that are definitely worthy of consideration. Here's the inside scoop on a few of these frugal delights.

First up, the beautiful Lindsay Wreath, made from olives leaves by the Lindsay Olive company. This wreath smells delicious, looks beautiful and is $30.00. Best of all, proceeds from sales go to benefit Meals on Wheels, a group that delivers meals to those in need.

Pictured: The Giving Wreath made of Lindsay Olive Leaves, available online for $30.00.

If you love olives, as I do, be sure to check out all the great recipes for Olives on the Lindsay site. We always serve them in the relish try at Thanksgiving, but there are many great uses for them in pasta, salads and couscous. Another great holiday centerpiece idea is Ikea's "set the scene" Candle center piece. Potpourri surround a vanilla candle, inside an elegant glass sconce.

Pictured: Ikea's Holiday Centerpiece, priced at $25.00.

Ikea showed off some beautifully decorated holiday tables adorned with glasses, plates, silver and dishes. Two tables were presented, one for adults and one for kids. Check them out. You could chose a few pieces, or just what you need as everything is priced ala carte.

Pictured: Ikea's Holiday Table for adults, all pieces come to approximately $200.00. Of course, you may have a few place settings already :)

I fell in love with the children's holiday table. If I could squeeze my knees under it, this is where I would be eating my turkey. My little niece and nephew would feel like royalty at this table with all the bright colors.

Pictured: The Ikea colorful children's table. All the plates, table decorations, table cloth and glass ware are available in-store or on Ikea.com.

Now onto the most the most important part of the evening, the wines for under $20.00.

Pictured: Six Wines under $20.00, Burgans Rias Baixas Albarino (Chardonnay?), 75 (Sauvignon Blanc ), Peter Lehman (Riesling), Ercavio (Tempranillo), Layer Cake Primativo (Zinfindel) and Navarro Correas (Malibec).

Six wines were presented for tasting, but the two that I will drink again and recommend are:

• 2005 Ercavio Roble La Mancha: A delicious red wine produced from 100% Cencibel (Tempranillo). This full bodied wine has overtones of blueberries and blackberries. I am eager to get a few bottle of this approximately $8.00 bottle of vino onto my wine rack.
  
• Navarro Correas Colección Privada Malbec: A nice rich, spicy red that would go well with turkey or beef.
  

Pictured: Two great red wine picks, Navarro Correas and Ercavio

For more holiday tips, check the Red Plum website and look for the coupons in the Sunday paper. The savings are literally at your fingertips. Red Plum features deals on Restaurants, Groceries, Style and Home. Check out their Black Friday Survival Kit before you head out to the stores post Turkey coma!

RedPlum's Best 30 Holiday Gifts Under $30 might give you a few ideas for your own frugal holiday gifting.

Frugalicious Holiday Treats: Lighten Up the Thanksgiving Table But Not Your Wallet