News: Stores Plan Huge Sales, Betsey Johnson Procrastinates, More

1. Stores are planning huge discounts for the time between Christmas and New Years, looking to that time for a surge in spending they haven’t seen yet. Get your gift cards–and check out our return policy roundup to see if you can exchange your unsavory gifts. Sign up for our newsletter–we’ll send you the comprehensive list of after Christmas sales. [WWD]

2. When Stylelist asked Betsey Johnson about her fall 2010 show, it seems she may be waiting until the last minute. She replied, “Oh man, it hit me last week! I don’t really know where I’m going with the collection.” Her show will fall on Valentine’s Day, so we’ll expect even more pink and red hearts than usual. If you’ve procrastinated for your holiday gifting, never fear. See our guides to Really Last Minute Gifts–eGift cards from cool places, and don’t delay on getting your perfect party dress for New Year’s. [Stylelist]

3. WWD predicts which lines will be especially coveted next  year, citing Sinclaire 10, Sak’s new basics line, starting at $89, Rosel, a new knits label starting at $150, and Rolando Santana, dresses starting at $89. For what’s hot right now, check out our guide to faux fur vests, little black dresses, leggings, and chic rain boots. [WWD]

4. Luxury brands are being encouraged to keep up with the times–and get their feet wet with new technology. The luxury market’s customers buy on the web twice as much as regular customers, but until now, the luxury brands have been heavily advertising in traditional media. See our guides to celebrity denim, sunglasses and scarves for more.  [WWD]

See our guide to the best online sample sales happening this week.