American Apparel Warehouse Sale- up to 90% off- thru Jan. 11

 What better neighborhood than Chelsea, NYC to host an American Apparel warehouse sale? I have NEVER seen a sample sale with so much product: not just rows but aisles of clothes! Sure, there are some wacky sheer hot pink harem pants and gold pleather bodysuits, but the sale also had some sweet items I could actually wear in public.

The sale is around 26th street and 6th Avenue. Originally, it was supposed to end Dec. 27th, but it has been extended to January 11th.   There are racks and racks of clothing: from t-shirts to skirts, dresses, leggings, panties, etc.  The majority of items are priced between $4 and $20!

Most of the women's garments looked teeny tiny.  If you are a dancer or very petite, you will be in heaven.  There was an entire area for bodysuits and tights with stirrups.

I followed some fashion-savvy girls to the men's side of the sale.  It was there that I found shirts that would actually fit a human being.  They also had some comical printed Tees, such as this homage to Bert and Ernie:

I picked up some lace tees in black and navy that will be fun to layer over bright color tank tops.  Although these items were a hefty $18 each instead of the whopping $4 that most garments went for, they are much more wearable than some of the pieces there.  I scoured the whole sale, and I am a tough critic- only buying things I will wear. 

Buyer beware- all sales are final so make sure you really want that $5 sweat shirt with a neck opening that is too small, or your peach tapered trousers with pouffy crotch.  Hipsters- you will be in HEAVEN.

No matter who you are, you should at least check this sale out, if only to be amused by the crazy styles that the design team dreamed up, which are inspired by vintage garments that you can also purchase!

Enjoy!

Daphne Guinness- FIT Exhibit- Fashion Icon Alert

I have been longing to see the Daphne Guinness exhibit at FIT.  For months I have wistfully walked past the closed museum, hoping for the precious day when I would be free during museum hours.

I left work before 5 today, and finally got to cross the threshold to greatness: the free Daphne Guinness fashion exhibit at FIT. 

Daphne Guinness is a fearless fashion icon who believes in amassing quality garments that are beautiful and speak to her artistically.  Her style is bold, strong, and unique.  The exhibit is sleekly decorated with mirrored compartments and gauze curtains dividing the different themed sections.

My favorite section was "Armor."  Daphne shows how a woman can be strong and sultry at the same time.  Check out some images below of my favorite pieces, as well as some pics from a tumbler account dedicated to Daphne: http://daphneguinness.tumblr.com/

Mizhattan's Sale Hunt- 25% off Tori Burch sale items, and MORE

When I can't sleep, I surf.  Stumbled upon an awesome blog: Mizhattan.  She has sections on designer collaborations, but what really caught myeye was the "Sale Hunt" page.

25% off Tori Burch Sale items now thru Jan 2nd. Use online code: SALE25 at check-out to get the discount.

She also has a section called "Friday Frugal Finds" where she lists awesome items/ their prices/ and where to get em.

She's even got the scoop on Manolo markdowns.  This is one Miz that I intend to follow!

Wall Decals- the decal is temporary, but the chicness is permanent

NYC apartments have thick, cement walls.  Don't want to use a power drill to hang up a photo? I don't blame you.  Instead, get on trend with the security deposit friendly alternative: wall decals.  These removable wall tattoos come in a variety of shapes and colors;

I have noticed these wonderful quirky treats at several friends' apartments.  They add so much character without taking up any space. I just ordered little birdcages for my place on Dezign With a Z.  So excited!

There are many options for those with a sense of humor:

Deer heads:

Chandelier

CLEARANCE SALES

In the days after Christmas and before New Year's Eve, retailers are giving deep discounts to boost their 2011 numbers and clear out space for new merchandise.  This is the ideal time to buy sweaters/ coats/ boots, and anything wintery.

I just went to Urban Outfitters and cleaned up on sweaters.  I also have made a killing on Bloomingdales.com.  Check out your fave retailer before 12/31 and you will be sure to have a happy new year!

Mustache Mania!

The Mustache: it has evolved past facial hair to pop cultural icon.  Here's some ways to honor and embrace the glory of the mustache!

1. Talking Mustache Keychain!

2. Carstache! Why should your face have all the fun?

3. Sunstache. So many levels of cool. 

4. Moustache bandages. "Disguise your Pain"

5. Moustache Flask.  Get out there and show your dapper!

Set SALE on the BANANA boat!

Banana Republic- 50% off sale! Adorable short sleeve/ sleeveless sweater cardigans: perfect for work layering.  Flattering silk dresses/ scarves/ shoes, deep reds, purples, leopard, and some BLING. Get on it before the prices go back up!

To give is better than to receive?

'Tis the season to give to others.  While all the generosity of the holidays leaves me with a warm and fuzzy feeling, I can't help but notice the killer sales happening now, or the fact that stores are FINALLY open late enough for me to visit after work!  It is as if they designed the holiday shopping season for my own personal convenience.  So while I'm out shopping for last minute gifts for others, I may have to treat myself.  Especially when I see something this enticing:

Just My Type

Spotted: type-writer inspired handbag.  Sure, it's $495 because Kate Spade made it, but defunct technology made into fashion never looked so cute!

And check out the telephone bag as well!  The lining is circled classified adds! So retro! I LOVE IT!   

Animal Instincts!

There seems to be an explosion of animal-themed knit hats.  I am all about the trends, but some people are looking gosh darn silly.

This cute little number is suggestive without being obnoxious.

If you know how to knit, you can get the pattern on Etsy for $5.00.



 And then, there's stuff that makes me think people have lost their minds... like this:

Blame Celebrities! 

URBAN SPACE- OUTDOOR HOLIDAY MARKETS IN NYC

Ho ho ho holidays.  If you  have never been to the Union Square Holiday Marketplace, it is definitely worth a trip.  If you only have a few minutes, take a brisk stroll through the splendor that abounds in the form of unique gifts and delectable morsels.


I had 10 minutes to dash through today, and I found these super cute hand warming gel pacs by Wonder Warmers and scarfed down a cinnamon raison soft pretzel.

In my haze, I passed soup vendors, tea shops, a Momofuku Milk Bar outpost, craft items, unique bags, scarves, jewelry and mini cannoli.  There is a wide range of prices and merchandise.  Support your local vendors and buy some one of a kind gifts!  Click here to see a map/ guide.

The company that holds this market is called Urban Space.  They also were the organizers of Mad Sq. Eats, the scrum-diddly-umptious outdoor eating experience in Madison Square Park this past fall.

Urban Space also has a market in Columbus Circle.  I hope it is half as funky and festive as the Union Square outpost.  Click here to learn more!

Happy shopping!

Chi-Town finds: Akira & Francesca's

I visited Chicago for the first time in 11 years.  Bar scene= college frat party worthy.  Shopping= surprisingly unique.

My friends brought us to a store called Akira, based in Chicago.  So many stylish, trendy outfits for very reasonable prices.  I only bought a few things, but I'm shopping online to grab some more.  Standout items: backless/ cut-out detailed dresses and tops.

The second hot spot is Francesca's Collections.   This quirky store sells jewelry, cute gift items, and some unique clothes.  The quality is great for the prices.  They also have a website so I can continue my shopping online.  Standout items: feather earrings.

 

Style Crush on Kreayshawn

Gucci Gucci Louis Louis Fendi Fendi Prada...them basic b****** wear that ish so I don't even bother. Crass words by a young, gutsy rapper.   Kreayshawn's style is anything but basic.

Love the nerd glasses, giant hoop earrings, and all her bold make-up.   Girlfriend is not afraid to mix patterns, bling, and prints.

Watch her break down her eclectic kick-ass style, and get inspired to thrift shop.

And watch the video that started it all!  Who else can make a Minnie Mouse bow look badass?

Grand Central Holiday Fair- 2011

Tis the Season: Pop Up Holiday Shopping has commenced.  Grand Central Station has sprouted a holiday fair with some stylish and intriguing gift items.

I rushed through the booths to take in all the splendor.  Here were my favorite stops:

1. Corrente

-I was immediately attracted to the cute and creative styling of the leather goods at this booth. Designed locally and sold on the Lower East Side, Corrente bags are made of super soft, lightweight Italian leather for a nifty price.  I got a super cute black on black wristlet for $65.  It is perfect for a night out, or for stuffing in your purse.  It has a separate zipper pocket and a cute polka dot lining.

The designer was very chill and approachable and I could tell that she is passionate about her bags.  Great gift items include mini clutches and leather pouches.

Check out her website, and save 15% with the coupon code: "iheartcorrente"

2. Victoria Bekerman Studio

-Jewelry with clean lines that mixes vintage and new chains (can give a girlie girl some edge).  Necklaces vary in length: great for layering! I bought a necklace for $95 made of silver (great for people who are allergic to brass/ nickel). Designed by hand and sold at boutiques in the NY area.  

Check out her products here.