Francesca's Collections at CityPlace in West Palm Beach holds a 30% off sale on its dresses, tunics and outerwear this week through Sunday, Sept. 27.

If you haven't been to the store before, it's worth a trip (one also at Mizner Park in Boca Raton). Though younger styles, the boutique has lightweight clothing from around the world that's perfect for South Florida. This colorful dress is $26.60 at Francescas Collections

It also has fun knicknacks and jewelry including two necklaces for $40; two bracelets for $30 and two rings for $25. These earrings are only $9.99 online.-- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Beautiful and unique jewelry, bags and wallets and other reasonably-priced gifts are available through Made By Survivors, an organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking and modern-day slavery.

Besides helping the international organization, you can find some gems for gifts or yourself. Here are two samples of the survivors' hand-crafted jewelry: Susan Six Strand Stone necklace for $60 and pearl earrings for $22.

Made By Survivors is a non-profit that works to prevent slavery in at-risk and refugee communities by creating jobs for adults.

Of course, you should check out any organization before you buy its products or give money. But Made By Surivors says in its press release that artisans receive full-market value for their products and are paid up front. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Accessories often make the outfit. Add the right necklace to a plain top and you're more dressed up, more professional.

Ann Taylor can help with its 30% off sale in stores and online on jewelry, belts and sunglasses.

Here's a necklace on sale for $55, but there are others for much less. Some nice choices in belts and sunglasses as well. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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ColdwaterCreek begins a sale Thursday (June 11), with up to half off on "selected merchandise," and an additional 25% off new and sale items.

Not sure how that works out exactly, but it means many of Coldwater Creek's clothing and accessories will be marked down.

I particularly like Coldwater Creek's jewelry. It's colorful and can help make an ordinary outfit pop. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Everybody loves 'em. Get your 20% off Steinmart coupons right here for the store's big summer sale, through Sunday, June 7:

Steinmart coupons

I found this cute sundress on their Web site, Steinmart

Also check out Steinmart's 50% off on home clearance items! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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I recently got an invitation to join Borders Rewards Perks, open to any one who is a member of Borders. No membership fee for either club.

I found discounts on South Florida restaurants through Restaurant.com, 15 percent off Bluefly apparel, discount movie tickets, and 25 percent off patio furniture at Home Depot. Some good deals; some not so much. Forty percent off of Nordstrom's, for example, is still often $100-plus pricetag.

But worth checking out. Sign up at any local Borders store. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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These DKNY stretch jeans, my fav, are on sale for $29 at Macy's clearance sale through March 1. Jeans, dresses, sweater, jewelry and handbags can be found on the clearance shelves.

If I keep bringing my lunch to work (apparently my key to losing weight), I might even look that good in them. -- Marcia "Not as Many" Pounds

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Even if it's not in the budget to buy a new outfit, picking up some accessories can do the trick.

I just love this Stretch Wide Filigree Bracelet. It's 3 inches wide and has a pattern of brushed silver filigree. It was $34 and is now only $19 at Ann Taylor Loft

And there's a good deal right now: Buy one and get 50 per cent off a second item of equal or lesser value.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Ugh! Don't buy me this or anything like it.

I have a collection of heart necklaces. One is an expensive marcasite heart; it's beautiful and was probably expensive, but it's still a heart. I've kept that, but any other heart-shaped jewelry sits unused in my jewelry box. I've given the occasional gem to a niece.

This is the time of year all the heart shapes come out and poor, unwitting men plunk down good money for "hearts" in gold, silver or worse. Don't do it! Red roses would be better. A candlelight dinner cooked by you would be great. Take your love dancing or to hear romantic music.

What do you think, girls? Do you dislike the heart-shaped jewelry as much as I do? What would you prefer for Valentine's Day? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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No matter what age we are, we feel the pain of the desperate women in the new movie, He's Just Not That Into You.
We love. We lose. But did we get any jewelry out of the romance? And do we still want it, or do we cringe every time we see it?

A clever Internet site, www.exboyfriendjewelry.com, allows you to sell those painful memories and to find good buys from others who have loved and lost.

It also means good reading. this from a woman selling a ring from her ex hubby

"I discovered that my husband was cheating on me and did not tell him that I knew right away. Instead I let him do what he had to do to ease his guilt, buy jewelry for me. So now we are separated and I am trying to pay bills by selling the rings.None of them have been worn, and most still have the retail tag on."

Here's her description: Brand New Beautiful Ring With 22.35ctw CZ. Made with 11.9 grams of 925 Sterling Silver, Size 6, Retail Price: $160, Her Price: $60. Click to buy ring

Love "em, leave 'em and sell "em.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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For my birthday I received this lovely Brighton bracelet. I wore the bracelet to a Christmas party and all of a sudden it fell off my arm. I didn't think much of it, but then an hour or so later it fell off again.

Then I got worried: I certainly didn't want to lose this bracelet.

I took my bracelet to a Brighton store. One associate told me to buy a jewelry guard. I went to the nearby jewelry repair kiosk where I was told a guard would help. I went back to Brighton to see if they could send the bracelet into Brighton for repair. No go. "Brighton doesn't modify its bracelets," I was told.

But this associate did make a helpful suggestion: Go to a jeweler and replace to toggle closure with a lobster claw closure.

I remembered an art and custom jewelry store I had visited in Pineapple Grove in Delray Beach and decided to bring my bracelet there. Stacey, the jewelry designer at Spotted on 2nd, chose a lobster claw that matched my bracelet and replaced the toggle in 5 minutes.

The best surprise: Only cost me $4 plus tax. What a deal! Stacey also restrings necklaces and modernizes old jewelry.

Has anyone else had the problem I described with Brighton bracelets?

BTW, Spotted on 2nd gallery is having a 20 percent sale on it jewelry, art and crafts during Art & Jazz on Thursday, Jan. 29. So just don't spend your time on Atlantic Avenue; take a short walk down 2nd to visit Stacey. Well worth your while. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Did you go see Marley & Me and testify that it's a three tissue movie? Is your dog a family member? Or do you know someone who fits these descriptions?

I just learned about a company that can do custom, handcrafted watches with your pet's name,and photo. Whimsical Watches has 700 designs to chose from in a variety of categories -- such as hobby, holidays, professions, music. Most include minatures in the watch face.

This is not the present for the person who is a label lover. They are somewhat kitschy, but perfect for the person who likes this sort of thing. The price is reasonable at $44.95. Buy two and get $5 off, three gets you a $15 discount and four saves you $25. See www.whimsicalwatches.com.

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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When my sister had a business trip to India last year, she turned to Chico's travel collection for clothes that would cover tall frame, not wrinkle and look professional.

Besides being wary about travel conditions and restrictions, women need to be careful not to offend the culture they are visiting. Often that means covering up.

Chico's is having its winter sale, up to 75 percent, off on many items: sweaters, buttoned shirts, pants, jackets, and its travel collection. The store's jewelry is also discounted, with some 50 percent off if you buy one item at full price.

The Chico's bright colors and leisure look is not for everyone, but its store on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale has plenty of choices for the more conservative dresser as well. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Heading to the snowy north? I hope not, but if you are, swing by Saks Off 5th before you go.

From 8 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 26, Saks Off 5th is offering 70 percent off cashmere sweaters, outerwear, boots, hats, gloves and other seasonal items.

Saks Off 5th stores are located at Sawgrass Mills and Dolphin Mall in South Florida. Most Saks apparel is too pricey for me, but you do find the occasional jewel on sale. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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J.C. Penney has put up its after-Christmas doorbusters online. The department store's doors open at 5:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 26th. Doorbusters include this guy's fleece hoodie for $17.99.

Two coupons, $10 off a $50 purchase and $15 off a $75 purchase, are available:

J.C. Penney coupons

The store is advertising online 75 percent off its holiday trim and decor as well as 60 percent off many other items. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Salvation Army, which usually is in the business of collecting money for its good causes, is marking down its acquired furniture and other items at all its Broward County stores on Dec. 24.

Everything will be 50 percent off for this one day only at the six Salvation Army Family Super Stores, open from 9 am to 4:30 pm. The stores have clothing, furniture, household goods, sporting equipment, books, electronics and more.

The best reason to buy: All proceeds from sales at the Salvation Army Family Super Store go directly to the operation of The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers.

Here are the Broward County locations:

1791 W Broward Blvd. 888 N University Dr.
Ft Lauderdale Pembroke Pines
954 463-3725 954-433-2160

310 N State Rd. 7 7707 W. Commercial Blvd
Margate Tamarac, FL
954 979-6999 954-721-0705

2300 SW 56th Ave.
Hollywood
954 961-7523

451 E Copans Rd.
Pompano Beach
954 782-3925

Shopping and doing good -- now that's a great concept. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Thanks to Lauren for directing us to istorez.com, a great Web site for all kinds of deals for that forgotten Christmas present.

For children, find "Deal of the Day" coupons for: ToysRUs. Just today, Dec. 22, there's $20 off the Rock 'n Go Pony, for example.

For that man in your life, what could be more welcome than the Festival of Corona Gift Basket featuring Coronas and other goodies fo $59.95 from Beergifts.com. Unfortunately, shipping will make it quite a bit higher at this point.

But istorez.com also offers free shipping deals. For the woman you're still trying to buy for, click on Talbots through the site and look at their 65 percent off items. Order by 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, to get free shipping.

So all is not lost and you don't have to pay extra for shipping if you look around. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Still haven't bought anything for mom? or your sister or best friend in New York?

Hurry and order online. Some ideas:

At Overstock.com, there's one day left for free shipping and delivery by Christmas Day. Lots of ideas for women, especially. Check out the jewelry section. I like this sterling silver "Peace" necklace from Indonesia, only $35.99.

Have the holidays brought out the romance? Order that engagement ring or diamond stud earrings quick before it fades at Bluenile.com.

If all else fails, mom or grandma certainly would appreciate Christmas flowers. (Guys, remember that women want anything they can show off others: "See the flowers my son sent me?") Order this nice combo of Godiva and roses from FTD.com for $39.99.

Relax now: You've saved your relationships with the click of your mouse and your credit card. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Need a last-minute holiday present for your sister, mother or bff? Check out AnnTaylor.com's jewelry sale, many items 40 percent off.

Here's a bronze and jet-coated stone necklace marked down from $59 to $35.40. Matching earrings on sale for $21. Many other jewelry and women's clothing gifts for under $50.

AnnTaylor.com guarantees delivery by Christmas Eve for $15 third-day shipping, but you better get going. Your time is running out, you procrastinators! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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When I heard that Miami-based Michele Barouh was going to make an appearance at Boca's Bloomingdale's my reaction was a big yawn.

Mea culpa. I shouldn't have let my subscription to W lapse. How can I be your fashion guide if I miss a watch designer whose designs are worn by celebs such as Jennifer Aniston and Paris Hilton?

Michele, namesake of Michele Watches and Creative Director for the brand, will be at Bloomie's today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Fashion Accessories on Level 1. She will help you design your own Michele Watch and she'll sign your watch purchases during the event.

Bloomingdale’s Boca Raton is located at 5840 Glades Road in Town Center at Boca Raton.

Better hurry. She's there is a few minutes

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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Ann Taylor always has stylish clothing and accessories that never cross the line into too trendy. But their offerings are always fashionable.

Here is a great find: This 16-inch long bib necklace features a cluster of rectangular faceted jet stones bordered by faceted jet beads on a silver link chain. It was $59 and is now only $19.44.

One caveat: It is a final sale and cannot be returned.

See anntaylor.com.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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You probably don't watch Gossip Girl. But betcha your teenagers are watching the perils of Serena, Blair, Chuck and the gang every Monday night at 8 p.m. on the CW. I'm not the demographic, but I just love these underparented, overfunded Upper East Side kids.

But I digress -- once again. Sorry. Anyhow, if you don't want to spend a fortune, but want to make your kids happy in their Gossip Girl fantasies, check out this link.

One of my fave items is Blake Lively's Sky Blue Cocktail Ring. It features an attractive smoky chalcedony blue hue surrounded by pale blue enamel. It contains small clear, aquamarine, and sky blue colored rhinestones in the enamel. And the cost is only $40.

Tell your own Gossip Girl that you wish her only blue skies like the ring. XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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If you're foolish enough, like me, to head to frigid New York City on a winter holiday, at least visit the many holiday markets the city has to offer.

I went to the one at Union Square where I found painted cooper earrings by Bora from Greece for only $20 and a lovely silk-strewn necklace with a cascade of small gems for $47. You'll also find Christmas decor, unique leather goods and lots of fun gifts for children at the Holiday Market.

Similar markets can be found at Bryant Park, where you also can ice skate, Grand Central and Columbus Circle. So, wherever you land in the city, there is a holiday market to shop.

The markets feature booths from stores around Manhattan as well as the outreaches and independent vendors. While I wouldn't count on a return policy, I found the shopping experience more fun and interesting than the overcrowded department stores with faux sales (20 percent off and only $800!).

South Florida retailers might do well to copy this NYC idea. After all, our weather is much more conducive to outside shopping. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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On my shopping list this weekend are some warm jammies. Not only has it been a little chilly lately for this reborn Floridian, I occasionally head north during the holidays where I know I'm going to be freezing my fanny off.

No Victoria's Secret here. Something solid like J.C. Penney. My mother bought me a pair of pajamas a few years ago from JC Penney or Sears -- two department stores reliable for relative gift giving because items can be returned in other cities.

These PJ's look cute, for $24.99 to $28.99. I may look at these and possibly use JC Penney's $10 off coupon this weekend for items $25 and over.

I want to be warm, but since I fully intend to return to better weather, I don't want to pay a lot for it! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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No time to shop when we have lines to stand in to vote!

But after you cast your ballot today, check out Kohls.com for 15 percent off everything with only 99 cents shipping per item (unless there's special handling involved.)

Enter the code Election15 to get the special discount.

If you're a Phillies fan -- or know one, you could buy this World Series T-shirt through Kohls.com.

You also can enter to win a $10,000 grand prize in a Kohl's sweepstakes. First prize is a family vacation for four at a Disney World resort and tickets to Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba show in Orlando.

Let's see I've voted, so what shall I buy? Maybe I'll just enter the sweepstakes. It's my birthday week; maybe that's lucky. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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I had to go to the place "where bargains were born," Filene's Basement, now that it has opened in Aventura.

It's nothing like the flagship store in Boston. I remember going there with my friend Lynn. It was a mess but a fun mess. Clothes on racks all over the place. I found a slinky black dress for some ridiculously low price.

Aventura is a bit more tame. Clothes are nicely organized on racks sporting designer names. The prices? A bit more steep than I remember in Boston.

Still, there are bargains to be found. The biggest is probably Filene's choice of designer jeans, many for less than $40. A variety of earrings and necklaces are easy pickups as well and designer sunglasses such as a pair of Oscar de la Renta's for $12.99.

Fantastic prices on women's and men's suits, if you're in the market for that.

I fell in love with a wrap dress from Barney's New York, but it was still too pricey for this bargain hunter at $130. But I'll be back. It's worth the drive. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Here's an easy gift for mom, the sisters or a good friend: Sterling silver jewelry, earrings, necklaces and bracelets, on sale for 65 percent to 70 percent off at Kohl's in Boynton Beach.

I overheard a man shopping for a birthday present for his wife. He was going to get her a Citizens watch -- also on sale. I wanted to scream at him: No! No! Something romantic, stupid. But I just let the saleswoman gently suggest a more elegant watch instead.

But back to the jewelry: lots of choices, both traditional and modern. Great for gifts for others -- or yourself! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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If you have an overwelming appetite for accessories, For Love 21 is your destination.

The sister store to Forever XXI is at the Dolphin Mall in Miami. As my shopping sister Kathy recently wrote, we had a great time picking up jewelry, belts and other items -- mostly under $10 -- at For Love 21.

I tried on a cute hat and bought some belts, but passed on some really fun boots (why didn't I get those! Only $36.) What's great is that anything in this store won't do too much damage to your wallet.

Great place to find holiday gifts for the young fashionistas in your life. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Looking for a fun afternoon with girlfriends?

Hit Delray Beach. Not the famed Atlantic Avenue, but NE 2nd Avenue, the entrance to Pineapple Grove.

I discovered that many great little shops and restaurants have opened up along Pineapple Grove. The street is a bit like Atlantic Avenue used to be: Full of unique shops and friendly and less expensive restaurants.

My friend M. and I had a fine breakfast of frittatas and french toast at Joseph's Wine Bar. After buying my quota ($20) of craft fair jewelry, I checked out the shops.

I found upscale jewelry and art at Spotted on 2nd, unique gifts at Conversation Pieces, Fatboy outdoor cushions at Museo (see right), and monogramed gifts for baby and children (lunchbox, $25, or backpack, just under $40). Pricey, but a unique present for the doting aunt or grandmother.

Met up with two friends, C and A, on Pineapple Grove and they also had a find: Kismet, a consignment shop with "gently worn" clothes. C found the little black dress she has been looking for, $35. Big shipment of designer dresses coming in Nov. 13, the shop told C.

So hit the boutiques in Delray Beach for an enjoyable day and you'll also be supporting small business, which makes the South Florida economy go 'round. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Last week I promised to let you know about the Miami mall a cute hip young fashion writer recommended. We thought we'd check it out first. It's an easy drive if you follow the Homestead signs driving south on the Turnpike. We didn't...don't ask.

Hardly an undiscovered gem, the huge parking lot was full, full, full. But, wow, well worth the drive. It's huge....and doesn't seem as picked over as local Sawgrass Mills.

It has some of the same big flagship stores as Sawgrass: Neiman Marcus Last Call, Off Fifth Saks Outlet, Burlington Coat Factory, T J Maxx, Marshalls, Bed Bath and Beyond. In total there are over 240 stores and restaurants.

Fellow blogger Marcia and I only had a few hours...we could have spent the whole day! Heck, you could spend a week there! We happened to walk in the entrance that took us to For Love 21, the Forever 21 accessory store. Huge selection, amazing prices. I bought a beaded necklace with a cheap charm on it, intending to replace their charm with an old locket I've had. Marked $4.95...scanned in at $1. Like a treasure hunt!

We ran out of time after Neiman Marcus Last Call...walking out for a previous engagement was sheer torture. The store signs were like the mythical sirens summoning us: Michael Kors, Coach, Calvin Klein, DKNY, DSW, Ann Taylor.....

But we'll certainly go back. And soon!

Dolphin Mall

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Ready to save more money? Then sign up today at Shopittome.com.

This cool site is like having a personal assistant who browses the Web for you looking for the best sales and coupon alerts, including codes. You can get an e-mail alert daiily, twice a week or weekly.

You'll find discounts on brand names like Ralph Lauren, Prada, Jones New York, Addias, Dana Buchman, Jimmy Choo, Liz Claiborne and Ann Taylor.

Ask for e-mail delivery on Fridays, when most online retailers mark down clothing, ShopSmart magazine suggests.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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My hair stylist, Francesca Guerrera at Echo, lives in my condo complex. She's a glamorous Italian gal I often pass in the parking lot when I'm coming home from work tired and bedraggled. She's usually headed out, looking like a million: great dress, hair and makeup perfect, accessorized to the max.

My big Las Vegas wedding is this weekend, so I went in to get a last minute haircut. I was whining about my recurrent problem...my hatred of shopping for cocktail dresses, especially for weddings. If you read this blog, you already know about my problem. Once again, I'm out of time, and no new dress!!

You'll never believe...she let me in on a little secret of hers. "Take a plain simple dress and load up on jewelry from Forever 21 at the Boca Town Center. It's so cheap, even if it discolors in a few months, who cares? It'll look good at the wedding. Wear lots pearls and chains, all shapes and lengths, you'll look fabulous, and no one will ever know."

Forever21

I thought Forever 21 was for kids. Anyone else shop there? Have you been holding out on us?

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I'm sharing this with you because the jewelry looks beautiful and the discount is good, but I'm also warning you that the Web site is kind of a mess to navigate.

I got an email from steelcouture.com announcing that you can get 35 percent off your entire purchase until Labor Day. The jewelry choices look fab -- everything from trendy cuff bracelets to chandelier earrings.

Here are a few tips for using the Website:

When you first open the Web site, it looks like nothing is there except a side rail. Scroll down a page view to see the choices.

Click through to "I want it" to see the price of the item clearly.

Your discount isn't clear until you go to the checkout and enter the code "Summer 35".

The model at left is wearing items form the Cyd Collection. Regular price of the cuff is $70 and the earrings are $68.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Are you as addicted to big, chunky jewelry as I am?

Thank goodness it's easier to find now that the fashion gurus have anointed it as "in style for fashionistas." But, knowing how fickle this industry is, I am stocking up on the big stuff while I can still find it.

So, as an ode to Vogue, Bazaar and WWD, here is one of my fave finds. I haven't bought it yet, but wanted to share this cool necklace I discovered this past weekend.

This mult-gem (faux and real, of course) bib necklace includes a combo of natural stones and turquoise resin with metal. It sells for $79, but looks ike it costs far more. Check www.bananarepublic.com and click on jewelry.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Summer sales are in full swing at Town Center in Boca Raton this weekend. Here are some items worth checking out:

Belts, thin and wide, on sale for $19 and up, at Nordstrom's. Ralph Lauren and Italian-made leather can be found in the sale section.

50 percent off leather purses at Clark's for a sale price of $50-$60. Nice styles and colors available.

70 percent off jewelry at Coldwater Creek. I picked up a shell necklace threaded with gold for only $19.99 -- my indulgence of the weekend.

Stopped by Bloomingdale's "final sale" but found nothing. Even at 50 percent off, $100-plus for a blouse is over this shopper's budget. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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I'm a fan of InStyle magazine http://www.instyle.com/instyle/
I'm a much bigger fan of any help that gets me to that state of fabulosity (Kimora, thank's for coining that word). So when I heard that the magazine's editors created Instant Style, I had to buy.

Although I know what looks good I don't always do justice while shopping or getting dressed (there have been a few fashion faux paux). If your fashion impairment has to do with putting an outfit together, then start turning these pages.

The book's useful layout is full of pictures and explainations on what works for different body types. There are tips on wardrobe pieces that are a must.

These suggestions won't be soon outdated because as every fashionista knows, classic pieces of clothing, shoes and accessories are timeless. Not that your wardrobe doesn't need the occasional update, but if you invest wisely, purchases go a long way.

The book retails for $29.95 at major book stores like Barnes & Nobles http://www.barnesandnoble.com/index.asp but there is currently an online offer for $23.96 and members pay $21.56. Check Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/ for prices ranging from $19.77 or less for used copies.

Wishing you a stylish life,
Heather.

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Pier 1 Imports has re-invented itself once again. It has returned to its roots as a great place to buy small gifts as well as decor items. When I visited last weekend, I found a lot of things that would make great Mother's Day gifts.
Here are a few of them:
These snakeskin bangles look like they cost far more than $7 each. At his price, you can buy mom three or four and a few for yourself.
Check out the faux flowers like this peony arrangement in a ceramic vase for $20. It's perfect for a small area like a powder room or mom's dressing table.
There are also other cool objects like this glass purse than can be used as a decorative object or a planter. It's $25. You may also find some decorative frames for $12 or three small jewel boxes for $10.
For more ideas, see pier1.com.
XOXO--Shopper Girl

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Jay Strongwater doesn't design as much jewelry since he decided to concentrate on the home. But I go crazy over the limited pieces he does create.

I bought a beautiful Strongwater pin in Charleston that gets tons of compliments. It looks like a piece I inherited from my grandmother, who wore it in the 1920s.

Your mom is special so why not give her something like this "Suzette" Pave Pansy Pin? It is handcrafted enamel over metal with gold trim and his trademark multicolor Swarovski crystals. The pin is 1 1/2 inches high and 1 1/2 inches wide. It sells for $150. See jaystrongwater.com.

It's so cool I may order one for myself.

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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What I love more than anything is finding something on a shopping trip that looks like it costs more than I paid for it. How about you? Isn't it a rush?

This past weekend I went to Town Center at Boca Raton. (And, yes there was security all over the place -- inside and out to put us shopoholics at ease).

I went into Talbot's to get a gift card for my friend in Philadelphia, when, of course, I spotted something for myself. Isn't that always what happens? I compare it to finding the man of your dreams when you weren't looking.

Anyhow, my find is a silver bracelet with a Greek key pattern for only $35! It has earrings to match, but they were out. They do have them at www.talbots.com. Tempting, isn't it?

By the way, the gift card at Talbot's doesn't expire.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Love to sparkle and shine?

Then check out the bedazzling baubles at House of Lavande.

 It's a new Palm Beach shop chock full of vintage couture jewelry. 4,000-plus pieces, in fact.

 And a long list of designers -- Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli among them. Very cool stuff. Hot enough for celebrity clients -- Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox and Carolina Herrera.

 Everything from '30s Bakelite bangles to Christian Lacroix ’70s earrings and tons more. Prices: $300 to $6,000 or so.

 And you should see the shop. Yards and yards of white silk, rather like a Parisian boudoir, which is intentional. It's like diving into your own personal jewelry box only a lot more fun -- and with a lot better jewelry.

 The shop is at 317 Peruvian Ave., Suite 201, Palm Beach, 561-802-3737. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Weekends by appointment.

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Check out our latest Divine Find -- it appeared in Sunday's Sun-Sentinel.

MUSHKA

180 NE 39th St., Buena Vista Building, Miami; open by appointment and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month for the neighborhood gallery walk; www.mushkadesigns.com

Owner: Sarah Wilson

Wow factor: Discovering this tiny glass-walled shop on the second floor of a Design District building feels almost magical. Inside, display cases are loaded with the hand-made designs of the 27-year-old Wilson, whose work is clearly inspired by the natural world. Almost all of the metal in her designs has an oxidized or brushed finish.

Editor’s picks: In the Blossom collection check out the sterling bud vine necklace ($97) and earrings ($95) — part Japanese, part old-fashioned feminine. Her new Love Tags (starting at $120) are miniature dog tags that can be customized with the names of your children or with Wilson’s ready-made endearments: doll face, cupcake and love bug. Sterling pendants from her Earth collection ($45 to $300) feature a bit of nature dangling from a chain. The Antique Earth collection includes a striking piece inspired by a ginkgo leaf and fabricated in red brass ($72-$147).

Design for less: Many pieces are less than $50. But almost everything can be made in sterling silver, red brass, bronze or 14-karat gold. Wilson rarely used precious stones.

Trivia: Mushka is the nickname given to Wilson by her Polish-speaking grandmother. It means “little fly.”

--J.T.

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