Archive for November, 2008

Put On Your Game Face: Black Friday Is Upon Us

It's finally Friday, and if you're not already out and about, we suggest taking it easy today and brushing up on your online shopping skills with these amazing Black Friday deals. This way, you can run to the fridge to replenish your Thanksgiving leftover plate as many times as your little stomach desires.

At the Endless Cashmere Sale at Martin+Osa, all cashmere is $79 with free shipping and free returns. This cashmere v neck sweater ($79, was $140) looks, and feels, delightful in any color.

Saks is having a mega-huge Designer Sale with 70% off Marc Jacobs, Moschino, Thakoon, and Zac Posen, among others. This sophisticated MaxMara dress is marked down from $560 to 335.90.

Take home the coveted Foley+Corinna Mid City Tote in Cranberry ($260.10, was $444) during the Shopbop sale. This style was featured in our latest Sold Out Guide and is sure to remain a hot commodity for Xmas. Enter THANKS2U at checkout and receive better discounts the more you spend.

Score a sleek Jawbone 2 Bluetooth Headset for 25% off its original price ($120, was $160) at AccessoryGeeks. And, as always, free shipping.

At J. Crew, spend $150 and get 20% off (or 25% off $200, 30% off $250) when you enter TURKEY at checkout. Their jewelry section never disappoints, which is where we found this elegant flower pearl bracelet (now $120).

Bare Necessities has a sale on a variety of brand name bras, undies, camis, and men's for up to 70% off – which means this Hanky Panky Bra is marked down from $50 to $15.

With your $85 purchase at Kérastase, receive one of four deluxe sample collections (a $24-$27 value) absolutely free.

At A Little Something, receive 20% off items like this Caroline Tote ($56, was $70) when you use code shefinds20.

Score another discount of 20% at Luxual Boutique with code SHEFINDS. This long sweater ($100, was $125) would make an ideal holiday gift.

Treat yourself to a pair of CC Skye Bamboo Hoop Earrings ($92, were $132) from Manhattanite. 20% off when you enter BlackFriday at checkout.

Get 40% off all outerwear at Lucy, where you'll find puffy coats like this one ($108, was $180) that certainly don't make you look fat .

Find that unique cocktail dress ($106.40, was $152) you've been looking for at Velvet Maven. And take it home at a discount when you use code MAVEN.

You can never own too much denim, and now with Anonymous Venice offering a discount with code SHEFINDS, there's no reason not to stock up on some classy trouser jeans ($88, were $110).

Get 20% off the highly entertaining Games For Dames when you enter promo code SHEFINDS at checkout.

Peruse our special Black Friday mailer to find exclusive deals for SheFinds readers, and make sure to check the amazing sales we posted about yesterday – many of the discounts are good through December 1st.

November 28th, 2008 12:00 am

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SheFinds Solution: Lavand Distraction bra

Anna Nicole is nothing special these days thanks to the most deceptive and entertaining push up bra to date.
The aptly named Lavand bra not only managed a martini on the house, but also accolades from a model.

“They’re so big and up there!” She gawked. “And you’re not exactly big yourself. How are they so perky? “

“I don’t know,” I winked and looked down at my lifted cleavage.

Go on. Don the Distraction. Believe in the force that god didn’t give you!

November 28th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
bras
fashion

Get the Most out of your Online Shopping Dollar

Since your going to spend the next few weeks shopping for gifts make sure you have our top tips for bargaining down or negotiating a lower price on anything from handbags to housewares. Whether you're shopping in stores or scouring the internet, these tips will help any shopper get the most for their hard-earned money:

Ask for an after-the-fact markdown. If the item you bought goes on sale within the week or the month, many stores will pay you back the difference. Keep your receipts!

Comparison shop. Some retailers offer a price guarantee over 100% – that means if you find the item cheaper anywhere else, prove it to the retailer and they’ll beat that price.

Sign up for stores’ e-mail lists. Stores will often e-mail subscribers first to tell them about sales, and may give them exclusive coupon codes.

Shop now, buy later. There are a bunch of websites – shopstyle.com, savvycircle.com, and shopittome.com to name a few – that will allow you to bookmark certain items, then alert you when they go on sale.

Use eBay and set up searches that will email you when new items from your favorite brands are posted. I also like to do a quick search on eBay from my Blackberry or Treo – then I know if there's a better deal online. Auctions can get you cheaper stuff!

Before you check-out online, Google “promotion code” or "coupon code" and the name of the product to find additional savings or free shipping.

When planning a trip to the store, find printable coupons online for preferred stores – we list a bunch at shefindscoupons.com.

Ask sales associates for advance notice of sales. Then shop the night before the sale and ask to have full price items put on hold until the sale starts.

Check each retailer’s drop-dead shipping date for delivery before December 25. You will be able to find the drop-dead shipping dates for most major retailers at www.freeshipping.org.

Look for free shipping and free returns. This will save money for you and makes it easy on your giftee should the item not be the right fit.

Score deals by regularly visiting the sale sections of online department stores like Saks.com and smaller boutiques located across the country like trendy ShopRapunzels.com based in Palm Beach, but shoppable for anyone with a web connection.

Also check out our latest guides for that ideal holiday gift. Pick up a personalized token in our Custom-Made Guide, or score the much sought-after Wii Fit in our Sold Out Guide.

November 27th, 2008 12:00 am

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Even Oprah Feels The Pinch With This Year’s Favorite Things For The Thrifty

Oprah’s much-anticipated Favorite Things episode premiered this afternoon, just in time for the upcoming shopping frenzy. Unfortunately, it was re-named ‘How to Have the Thriftiest Holiday Ever’ and nobody took home obscene amounts of gifts and gadgets, thanks to Oprah’s decision to remain sensitive to our economic climate. Although we understand her reasoning, we’d still feel secretly miffed if we were a member of that audience.

Our new Queen of Thrift showcased swapping parties as an excellent and savvy way to score gently used clothing by exchanging unwanted items with friends. We already know what a stellar idea this is, having mentioned it a month ago.

In terms of gift-giving, Oprah was big on personalizing your present. She suggested a box of endearing letters, but we think a special necklace from our guide would be much more fashionable.

Although they weren’t featured on the show, The Jo Malone bath oil set ($85) and Philosophy’s Hope In A Jar ($15-$60) made Oprah’s list of great gifts under $100 in O Magazine.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
beauty
fashion

Prepare For Black Friday With Virtual Armor And A Strategy Of War

Black Friday is almost upon us. The day when some stores open their doors at 4am (Kohl's what are you thinking?) and others like H&M remain open an entire 24 hours. But how can you make the most of your shopping experience and avoid wandering aimlessly amidst the retail-hungry crowds? ReadWriteWeb has offered up some essential online resources that will prepare you for the craziest day of the year.

Sites such as Black Friday 2008 are dedicated to giving you up-to-the-minute info on discounts already being offered on products. For example, this Nintendo DS Lite was just listed today on Amazon for only $135, and this Canon Digital Camera is now on sale for $150. The site also lists store hours so you can plan your route accordingly.

Another way to get a leg up if you are online shopping is to take advantage of comparison sites like PriceGrabber and Shopping.com. These sites compare the prices of the same item from multiple retailers so you can find the best deal. Shopping.com has an extensive UGG category, but you can also peruse our UGG Guide for great deals.

Lastly, don't forget about Cyber Monday. If you can't find the item you want while pounding the pavement on Friday, you can always search for it from the comfort of your cubicle next week, when stores promote big sales online.

Good luck out there brave soldiers.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
fashion

Deal Of The Day: Up To 42% Off Party-Ready Wedges At Piperlime

Infinitely easier to walk in than stilettos, high wedges are perfect for a night out.

The sculptural heel makes thse croc-embossed patent wedge ($60, were $98) look appealingly modern.

This metal-trimmed pair ($130, were $225) has enough height for a night out, with a shape that’s conservative enough for the office.

Jessica Simpson’s Pensly wedges ($60, were $89) are flat-out sexy, with a side cutout and ¾” platform.

More sales and deals on the web:

Up to 75% off handbags at 6pm.

Now through Friday, get 20% off your order at Kerastase-usa.com by entering coupon code GIVING at checkout. Five percent of what you spend will be donated to Dress For Success.

10% off or free shipping on any order at Havaianas.

The sample sale scoop – shop these sales today for huge discounts:

Adrienne Vittadini at Editors’ Closet

Melissa Odabash and Pencey at Hautelook

Abaete and Kevia Jewelry at Gilt Groupe

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
sales and deals
shoes

It’s Brown Thursday (Thanksgiving For Traditionalists): Get Ready For Lots Of Sales, And Food

It's Turkey Day, otherwise known as Brown Thursday, and as much as my colleagues have tried to convince me to come up with a witty yet tasteful comment about this new nickname, I can't successfully do so without blushing like a seventh grader at the lunch table. I will leave you to your own jokes – and these fantastic Poo Thursday sales.

Macy's not only hosts the parade, but also a superb sale, with savings on over 25,000 items including retro-inspired outerwear. Use code PERK at checkout and receive free shipping plus an extra 15-20% off purchases of $99 or more.

This week only, Old Navy is selling essential staples for $15 a pop – stock up on cardigans, camis, and simple turtlenecks for when the temperature inevitably dips.

Tobi is offering a sitewide discount of 30% when you enter code WEGOBBLE (how appropriate), which means these Citizens Jeans would set you back a mere $88.

At blissworld.com, receive a Two Scents Set plus free shipping with every purchase of $50 or more. Just enter 118915 at checkout. Buy the Best of Bliss and you're already over the $50 mark.

At Banana Republic, you can score sleek winter apparel, accessories, and handbags for up to 40% off, including this Robson Clutch ($96, was $160).

Looking for an authentic gift for that special someone? In our Custom Made Guide, you can shop for personalized gifts like this metal necklace from Uptown Studio. Get a 20% discount at checkout when you enter SHEFINDS.

For the hottest selling accessories, shoes, clothing, and gadgets, check out our annual Sold Out Guide. We tell you where to find this year's must-have items, like the coveted Blackberry Storm.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
fashion
sales and deals

Fashion Top Five: Wear Your Wine (It Makes The Spills Less Obvious)

While red seems to rally during the holiday season, sometimes it can be a little too…red. Its deeper, mellower cousin – the makers of the products below call it “burgundy” and “spilled wine” – is quietly sophisticated, but not buttoned-up. See our party-ready picks below, all under $100.

The exposed zipper at the back of this strapless dress ($40) is a simple but eye-catching detail.

The brown tones in this croc-print pump ($91) bring down the brightness; the hidden platform means you can keep dancing a bit longer.

The relaxed fit of this racer back tank ($47.60) would pair well with fitted denim, or even satiny black trousers.

This satin and patent clutch ($12.50) would look just right with almost any evening outfit that incorporates black.

This sequined chiffon tank ($23) has a flapper feel; go with the flowiness, or tuck it into a high-waist skirt for a sleeker look.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
fashion
top five

Nice Coat, Ms. Michelin. Try Some Puffy Options That Don’t Make You Look Like A Marshmallow

Michelin Man coat? Bad. Puffy coat that still shows your curves? Good.

For those in need of a demonstration, behold the dos and don'ts of donning winter's favorite puffy jacket.

Exhibit A: Short Coats

I'm not sure what was going through the minds of the designers when they created this LaRok Puff Breaker jacket ($268), but it reminds me of Missy Elliot's Supa Dupa Fly get-up–you know, the black Hefty bag?

A better (read warmer, more sophisticated and stylish) option is the Nine West Cropped Puffer jacket ($80). It has long lines and plenty of warmth, but the unique wrap shape gives the impression that you still have a figure under all that polyfill.

Exhibit B: Medium-Length Coats

I understand Helmut Lang is a very prestigious designer. This $500 coat, however, looks like a big, ugly sack. Who wants to spend all that time at the gym if your new-found size 4 looks like a 16?

If you're going to wear white–which looks uber-chic in winter–at least make it a crisp white with pretty accents and a tailored fit. This Juicy Couture Angel Button Puffer Coat ($400) is a fine example. For girls on a budget, check out this longer-length Mossimo look-alike at Target ($50).

Exhibit C: Long Coats

Why? That's all I can say. Kira Plastinina seems to have gotten a little carried away with the pouf in this black camo puffer coat ($118). Much preferred is this streamlined Kenneth Cole New York Long Puffer ($228) with a cinched waist and high collar.

I rest my case.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
fashion
outerwear

Who Needs A Fireplace When You’ve Got Cozy Fall-Scented Candles?

The whole multi-sensory fireplace experience – with the warmth and the crackling and the smell and the orange-y glow – adds up to a very comforting, very Fall feeling. But if you don’t have a fireplace, you can approximate the whole thing with one of these candles, which all smell different, but definitely all evoke fall.

Each burns for at least 50 hours, enough to get you through an entire season of cocktail gatherings and movie nights.

Smoky: Diptyque Feu de Bois ($60)
The name translates to “firewood,” a perfectly apt characterization – this minimalist candle smells just like burning wood.

Sweet: Slatkin & Co. Leaves ($16.50)
This one, on the other hand, does not smell at all like leaves. Instead it’s spicy and seasonally fruity, like hot spiced apple cider.

Christmas-y: GloSpa Cheer Ambiance Candle ($22)
Every time my roomate walks in while I'm burning this candle, she says, "It smells like Christmas in here!" Notes of evergreen and clove – plus a snowflake-adorned, frosted-glass holder – make this one totally appropriate for the holidays.

Rich: Malin + Goetz Dark Rum ($48)
With notes of bergamot, plum, leather and of course, rum, this mahogany colored candle is complex but subtle, lending a pleasant scent to a room without taking it over.

November 26th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
beauty

News: Williamson Up Next For H&M, Pucci Prints Now Easier To Get, And More…

1. Matthew Williamson will be the next designer to create a collection for H&M. Could he cause the same craziness that ensued over Comme des Garcons? [VogueUK]

2. Pucci launched its online boutique this week, which offers a full range of goods from eveningwear to jewelry. Although the prices aren't exactly wallet-friendly, it's definitely worth a look. [CatwalkQueen]

3. Kérastase and Cynthia Steffe have teamed up to create cosmetic bags for Dress For Success. Now we're even bigger fans of Kérastase. [Stylelist]

4. Shop designs for Count Me In and support women entrepreneurs. Purchase green tea flavored lip balm from Pin Up Balms or peridot and labradorite earrings from A Pretty Rock.

November 25th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
fashion
news

Bare Necessities Gives Us Ten Reasons To Eat More This Thanksgiving

Top 10 Shapewear from BareNecessities.com

For every shape. For every budget. For every outfit. Bare Necessities has your Shapewear. Check out our picks for this season's Top 10 Shapewear.

1. Best All-Over Shaper: SPANX Slim Cognito Shaping Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
This style attaches to your bra as it shapes your tummy, thighs, and rear!

2. Best for Slinky Dresses: Cass Luxury Shapewear Camisole Shaper Slip
This is the smoothing gem we'd pair with our Little Black Dress.

3. Best Waist Nipper: Body Wrap Firm Control High-Waist Panty
If you're looking for a whittled waist. Look no further than this style.

4. Best Body Shaping Hosiery: SPANX All The Way Super Control Pantyhose
It's not called All The Way for nothing; This hosiery shapes from waist to toes!

5. Best Back Bulge Buster: Sassybax Torso Trim Camisole
Back Bulge? What Back Bulge? We adore this sleek Sassybax style!

6. Best Curve-Defining Style: Miraclesuit Inches Off Waist Cincher
This season's look? An enviably slim waist. It actually accentuates your curves.

7. Best Thigh Trimmer: SPANX Higher Power® High-Waisted Power Panties
This high-waist shaper gives us a more sleek look under our high-waist jeans!

8. Best Rear-Lifting Style: Sassybax Bottoms Up Long Leg Control Brief
Give your bottom a boost with this smoothing, Sassybax shaper.

9. Best for a Flatter Tummy: Yummie Tummie Hip Length Shapewear Tank
This brief offers firm tummy control. It's the perfect style for so many outfits!

10. Best Seamless Style: SPANX Hide & Sleek Hi-Rise Panty with Thong Back
You'll love the soft, seamless fabric as much as the body-shaping power.

See all shapewear at BareNecessities.com.

November 25th, 2008 12:00 am

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Categories:
cool sites
fashion
lingerie

Archive for November, 2008

Put On Your Game Face: Black Friday Is Upon Us

SheFinds Solution: Lavand Distraction bra

Get the Most out of your Online Shopping Dollar

Even Oprah Feels The Pinch With This Year’s Favorite Things For The Thrifty

Prepare For Black Friday With Virtual Armor And A Strategy Of War

Deal Of The Day: Up To 42% Off Party-Ready Wedges At Piperlime

It’s Brown Thursday (Thanksgiving For Traditionalists): Get Ready For Lots Of Sales, And Food

Fashion Top Five: Wear Your Wine (It Makes The Spills Less Obvious)

Nice Coat, Ms. Michelin. Try Some Puffy Options That Don’t Make You Look Like A Marshmallow

Who Needs A Fireplace When You’ve Got Cozy Fall-Scented Candles?

News: Williamson Up Next For H&M, Pucci Prints Now Easier To Get, And More…

Bare Necessities Gives Us Ten Reasons To Eat More This Thanksgiving

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