New York & Company is offering a jeans promotion: buy one, get a second pair 75 percent off.
These curvy bootcut jeans are $49.95 for the first pair; the second pair would cost about $12.
Buying jeans can be confusing these days because there are so many different styles: dark denim, washed and worn denim, bootcut legs, skinny legs. Preview the styles at
New York & Company
Be comfortable, yet stylish this summer with 40 percent off shorts at Ann Taylor Stores. No code is needed online.
We can never have enough shorts in South Florida, where it is currently hot, hot, hot! But there's no reason to pay full price with so many retailers and sales around.
I like these dressy, silky shorts, but there are more casual styles available. You'll also find 50 percent off already-reduced items online and in stores at Ann Taylor.
I just returned from the Caribbean where it was -- get this -- hotter than South Florida! This TravelSmith microfiber shirt, on sale for $39 from $54, might have been a good addition to my suitcase.
Microfiber resists wrinkles and drip-dries overnight, according to TravelSmith, which specializes in travel clothes for women and men. For a beach vacation, where one is always changing from swimsuit to dry clothes, that sounds ideal.
In the Caribbean, everything happens on "island time," including drying clothes, it seemed.
The travel shirt comes in several colors and a sleeveless style. For more information, go to TravelSmith.
Get 40 percent off women's full-priced items online at Banana Republic on Friday.
If you miss the sale, you can still get 30 percent over the weekend.
Banana Republic has several colorful tops and ruffled dresses just right for summer. I liked this top for $34, though it doesn't qualify for the discount because it's on sale. With the 40 percent discount, though, you can shop new items like this dress, regularly $130. 
Bloomingdale's at Town Center in Boca Raton will hold a "pre-prom party" event from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 16.
The event includes a prom fashion show at 2 p.m., 20 percent off selected prom dresses, and help with accessories and beauty "essentials" for the big evening.
This prom season features lavendar, aqua and other pretty colors -- no black. Get colorful -- there will be plenty of time to wear black.
Shop It To Me, a shopping website you must register for to get deals, is offering an Anthropologie sundress for $79, discounted from $148.
The Paraiso dress is made of cotton with horizontal stripes of blue and yellow. Dress it up with the matching silk sash for a Sunday brunch.
For other Shop It To Me deals, go to www.shopittome.com or directly to:
Anthropologie sundress.
It's that time of the year when South Florida's weather starts to become humid, and the best thing to wear is cotton. But where does a shopper find clothes that are not polyester or rayon?
Surprisingly, at Old Navy. This weekend, at 40% off, I snagged a cotton skirt and sundress -- both perfect to stay cool at upcoming spring art and music festivals. The sundress, for less than $19, is cotton jersey so it stretches a bit for a nice fit.
I did buy one rayon top because it was too cute to pass up. Ah well, nobody's perfect.
Every year about this time I begin my search for the perfect sundress. Perhaps I'm looking in the wrong place. How about Target?
I recently saw this cute black (also in other colors) sundress from Libertine for $29.99, and many others at Target.
Target has a long list of designers for its spring dress collection that include Luella Bartley, Jovovich-Hawk, Zac Posen, and Proenza Schouler.
So step into spring and summer with a collection of sundresses. Of course, they're always the thing to wear in sunny South Florida.
Shop the affordable spring dresses and skirts from New York & Company, many wearable for work as well as fun.
This black and white print dress is priced at $59.95. There also are wrap-style dresses and ruffle skirts, all nice additions for warmer weather.
See more selections at New York & Company.
JC Penney's stores in South Florida are now featuring two new designer lines: Barcelona-based MNG from Mango and an exclusive shoe line, Call It Spring, from The ALDO Group.
I'm not surprised: Today at lunch I spied a woman wearing a flattering top and complimented her on it: "It's from JC Penney's," she told me.
Now, the department store is adding these new designer lines, and they are as welcome as spring. I spotted this cute, very South Florida, dress by MNG from Mango on its website for $87. And these Call It Spring wedges, for $39, would go nicely with the dress.
Browse the new collections at JC Penney.
Spring has sprung at Macy's with designs for INC International Concepts by Irina Shabayeva, "Project Runway’s" Season Six winner.
Shabayeva, who illustrated her mastery of fit and proportion on the hit Lifetime reality show, worked with INC on a new concept in sportswear that evolves out of movement and dance.
The line includes form-fitting dresses and separates, notably tops, skirts, jackets and denim. To finish the look, Irina for INC includes dance inspired footwear that ranges from Ponte slipper platforms and ribbon tied espadrilles.
She incorporates bold color blocking on shifts, dresses, and tunics. Vibrant jersey tops and skirts are paired with army anoraks; black and white body con dresses are embellished with exposed zippers, while flirty lace confectionary designs are embellished with jeweled beading.
The collection is now in 50 Macy’s stores including Town Center at Boca Raton. Aventura Mall, Dadeland Mall and Miami International Mall and on Macys.com.
Tops range in price from $49–$99, pants & denim range from $79–$129, skirts from $89–$119, dresses range from $99–$169 and outerwear from $119–$159. Footwear will be available at $98.
It's already spring at Nordstrom's.
Any of our blog readers know how much I love dresses, and spring is the time when all the new styles make their debut. Ruffles seem to be a theme.
This Eliza J blue dress is $138. See Nordstrom's.
Heard on NBC-TV's Today program this morning: Rent the Runway to dress like the movie stars on the Golden Globes at an affordable price.
Here's Natalie Portman in a Viktor Rolf pink satin gown. The shoes (ah, the shoes) were taller and fancier as well, with sparkle and roses and lace. Natalie wore red heels with her gown.
Of course, if you rent a runway dress from www.renttherunway.com, you do have to return it. But who wears the same fancy dress twice? (Actually, this bargain hunter does. Don't tell anyone!)
Take another 40 percent off purchases at Ann Taylor Factory stores at Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise and Dolphin Mall in Miami, Jan. 13 to 17.
I was at Sawgrass Mills a week ago and there seemed no sign of a recession. Shoppers carried multiple bags from designer shops, many offering discounts (though not enough for me.)
The Ann Taylor Factory store at Sawgrass, though, usually has lots of deals. If you're in the market to refreshen your work wardrobe, or just want to pick up some casual tops or pants, this store is a bargain-hunter's dream. Have fun!
Ann Taylor is holding its semi-annual sale, with blouses and tops priced at $19.99 and up, sweaters starting at $29.99, and pants at $39.99.
January is a great time to reinvigorate your work wardrobe, and Ann Taylor is one of the best stores for that. But at this sale, you'll also find some holiday wear on sale, such as this silver cut-in top, only $19.99. Good under a jacket or for evening wear.
Ann Taylor also has a nice choice of cardigans -- great for South Florida's air-conditioned offices. But they're not quite at the price I would buy them. I'll wait for the annual sale.
Shop now at Ann Taylor.
I'm a sucker for dresses.
Last Call by Neiman Marcus has 30% to 50% percent off all items, including dresses, sweaters, handbags, jewelry and accessories.
Here's an interesting look from Romeo & Juliet, on sale for $69 (regularly $130.)
Sale valid now through November 8, at Last Call Stores and now through November 9, at 8 a.m. at LastCall.com.
Bloomingdale's is pitching a dress line as those that can go from "day to night." I don't quite see sequins, poofy short skirts, and such for the workplace, but those are the pricey dresses, anyway.
Here's an Aqua Faux Wrap dress for only $88 that could be used for daywear and dressed up with a long chain of pearls or beads for nighttime. There are other Bloomingdale's selections as well that work well with fall's tights or high boots (even in South Florida -- maybe next week.)
Yes, there are deals at the new Nordstrom's Rack store in Boca Raton: $2.97 for women's lace and nylon underwear, $24.97 for Armani Exchange sunglasses, and designer purses for under $100.
On Sunday afternoon, it seemed like nearly everyone in Boca was at The Rack at the University Mall across from Florida Atlantic University on Glades Road. Even the men were shopping! I didn't spend much time in that part of the store, but if you're looking for a manly laptop case, you can snag one for $40 at The Rack.
Nordstrom's is all about shoes, of course, and you can find those as well at The Rack at a significantly lower price than the parent store. The Rack is a great place to find career clothes as well: lots of dresses, skirts, jackets. Much of it is a bit heavy and warm for South Florida, unfortunately, but there's also leftover summer merchandise.
With its mixed bag of prices, Nordstrom's Rack is a welcome addition to Boca Raton.
Old Navy is having a secret cami sale, and we're here to let you in on the secret!
Use this coupon to score up to 5 camis for just $2!
Amazon.com has a great deal going in their Dockers store. Men and women's pants are up to 50% off the retail price. There are many styles and colors to choose from. These flat-front men's rousers, normally $55, are just $32.99. This could be a great way for teachers and students to save on a back-to-school staple that will last all year.
Check out the Amazon Dockers store for details and more options.
The Palm Beach Post Malled blog reports that discount fashion retailer H&M is finally opening a South Florida Location! The new store will be in The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens. Malled! reports:
"The Gardens Mall location will be a two-story flagship store, meaning that when designers team with H&M for specials lines, this store will carry them. In the past, designers Jimmy Choo, Sonya Rykiel and others have created lines specifically to be sold in H&M stores.The store is slated to open around Thanksgiving, and will be near the Brookstone in the mall."
Find out more about the new store over at Malled!
Ann Taylor is startiing off 2010 well: with a sale. Check out its latest arrivals of blouses and shirts, perfect for work, at www.AnnTaylor.com.
With South Florida's weather so changeable these days, it difficult to know what to wear in the morning. I like this "perfect shirt" from Ann Taylor that would go well with a skirt or pants, marked down to $39.99 from $50.
Dresses, pants, shorts, and jackets all are on sale as well, either in stores or online. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
It's unusual to find something affordable at The Shops at Boca Center, off Town Center Circle in Boca Raton.
So I was shocked to see a sign proclaiming 50 percent off walking by Bella Boutique. Even as I entered the store I thought, "yeah, 50 percent off of $300."
Imagine my surprise when I saw stylish holiday dresses and tops for $60 to $100, and they were all half off. Everything in the store is discounted 50 percent until Dec. 31, says owner Christina Poulos.
Warning: The dresses and tops are younger styles, fitting on the tight side.
With New Year's Eve festivities around the corner, you'll do yourself a favor by heading to Bella Boutique as soon as possible. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
With travel up north planned, I've been reviewing my sweater situation. I have some, but a few fresh sweaters are always nice.
I try to buy sweaters that could be worn on our one or two cool South Florida days or layered with a jacket up north.
New York & Company has a nice selection, up to 70 percent off in stores and online through Sunday, Oct. 25. Here's a long cardigan for $19.97. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
You would have thought everything was 90 percent off. No such luck, but great prices as always at Ross Dress for Less' new store at Hillsboro Boulevard and Powerline Road in Deerfield Beach.
The parking lot was packed today and shoppers coming out with two or three bags.
I found a few items of interest such as August Silk matching sleeveless sweater and cardigan for $12.99 and $19.99 respectively. They had several color choices including black, red, orange and purple, but mostly large or extra-large sizes.
The store is bright and large, with racks where you can actually look at the clothing. It's not all crammed in. Either wall is filled with shoes -- women's on one and men's on the other.
The merchandise seemed a mix of new and stuff I've seen in other stores, but that's always the case with discount stores. You have to look for the treasure. So happy hunting. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
This weekend might be a good one to head to Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise or the Dolphin Mall in Miami. You'll find blouses, sweaters, dresses and pants up to 70% off at the Ann Taylor Factory Store.
Ann Taylor is a great place to refreshen or fill in your wardrobe for work or everyday. This blouse is on sale for $29.99 online, but you probably can find deeper discounts at the outlet malls.
I feel Sawgrass calling.... -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
It's back to the '80s at T.J. Maxx with neon.
T.J. Maxx opens a new store in Miami Beach this Thursday, Sept. 24. Located at Fifth and Alton, the new T.J. Maxx will be customized for the Miami consumer featuring fashion trends.
The off-price retailer points out that celebs like Alicia Keys and Blake Lively have been spotted in the high wattage trend in dresses and jackets. And designer Michael Kors featured pops of hot pink from bags to dresses in his fall collection.
T.J. Maxx's grand opening hours are 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Regular store hours will be 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Doubtful if you'll find Blake's dress at T.J. Maxx, but the store's neon look is bound to be more affordable. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Last Call, Neiman Marcus' clearance center, is offering $10 to $50 off purchases $50 to $250 -- bigger the purchase, the bigger the discount.
The extra discounts are good through Monday, Sept. 21.
Last Call is at Sunrise's Sawgrass Mills and Miami's Dolphin Mall in South Florida. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Spent Sunday shopping with my friend E. who needed a dress for an event, something she could take from event to after-party.
We started at Macy's at the Broward Mall, to check out its Labor Day sales and she was pleased to find a teal Evan Piccone dress that looked fantastic on her. She bought it and then we went to check out the nearby Ross Dress for Less.
At Ross, we were shocked to find the same dress, only in red, for $50 less! The teal version also was there, though a halter design, for the same price.
We're not talking a $10 difference, but $50! My outraged friend is returning the over-priced dress to Macy's.
Just a reminder that it always pays to shop around, especially the discount stores like Ross and Marshall's. Do you have similar stories? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Labor Day looks to be a big shopping weekend. With expected rainy weather, what else is there to do but stroll the mall?
Besides, there are clearance sales going on everywhere. Here are some samples:
J.C. Penney is offering 40% to 60% off its furniture.
Ann Taylor has a fall preview: Buy one, get second item at 50% off.
New York & Company: Take 20% off purchases of $50 or more with this coupon or promotion code 3556 online:
Lots more out there? What have you found so far? Post the specials for everyone here. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Just when Michelle Obama made if fashionable to go without hose, fall fashion is all about tights.
In South Florida, I would never don hose or tights unless it was for a special occasion. But these Wolford tights, around $58, at Bloomingdale's are tempting. And when you wear a black dress, dark hose are a must.
I just better not get a run in them at nearly $60 a pop! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
If you follow fashion even a little bit, you've heard that fall is all about plaid.
Plaid is not very South Florida, but Thursday, Aug. 20, is your chance to see the first of the fall fashions at Loehmann's stores. Loehmann's has several stores in South Florida including Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton, Pembroke Pines and Aventura.
Leggings are also are in for fall -- nice and toasty in 90-degree weather!
Ah well, while you peruse the fall fashions, you no doubt can pick up more Florida-esque clothing on clearance. It's that wonderful time of year when stores are trying to get rid of their summer inventory to make room for fall fashion.
For us in South Florida, it's the ultimate bargain time. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
New York and Company is offering a "buy one pant, get one free" deal, plus coupons for $25 off a $75 purchase and $60 off a $150 purchase, either in stores or online, through Aug. 16.
Print this out to bring to the store:
Or enter these codes online:
The higher price prevails so, of course, you want to choose two pairs of pants similar in price to get the best value. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
You can see the ad on this Web site: 40 percent off permanently reduced merchandise at Dillard's stores and online.
But the proof is in the product and how big the sale. So I did a run through Dillards for some potential deals. Here's what I found:
Guess Crystal logo sunglasses, regularly $65, on sale for $19.50. My kind of price for shades!
BCBGirls "Ariel" open-toe patent pumps, in red or black, regularly $89, now $35.77. Very sexy.
NightAway ruffle party dress, in red, regularly $99, now $35.54. Super cute!
You have to search, but the booty is there. The sale on some items is only until Saturday, Aug. 1, so get shopping! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
When I was a teenager, my father took me to the big city, which was Chicago for us, and bought me a dress at Saks Fifth Avenue.
I felt quite sophisticated in my Saks dress, which was probably a little too old for me. But the experience of shopping with Dad -- not his favorite pastime -- was one I'll always treasure.
Saks is not a place I normally shop because, on a journalist's salary, I can't afford to be spending $300 to $1,000 on a item of clothing. But in this recession, everything is on sale.
At Saks Fifth Avenue in Town Center at Boca Raton, many designer fashions right now are up to 70 percent off. You'll see signs saying "50% off ticketed prices" all over the store -- on items that already have been marked down!
The Elijah strapless dress pictured, for example, is on sale for $99, regularly $300.
It's also a pleasure to shop where the sale clothing isn't in a pile or jammed on racks. At Saks, even the clearance items are neatly hung.
You've got until Sunday, July 12, to get designer fashions at a discount at Saks. You might just find Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs and Prada on sale. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Macy's having a one-day sale on Saturday, July 11, (with preview on Friday) and one of the better deals is 40 percent off its bras. The sale is in stores and online at Macy's.
This Maidenform satin demi bra is marked down to $19 from $33, for example.
Lots of other sales on bed and bath, women's swimwear, jewelry (a $59 diamond bracelet?) and more. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Take 30 percent off any in-store purchase at
Get this little black dress for only $19.97!
Looks like the perfect addition to my summer wardrobe. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
"Selected" women's and men's jeans are on sale for $19.99, regularly $49.50-$69.50, at The Gap, stores only.
Who knows if these jeans are wide bellbottoms or so skinny tight you have to squeeze into them? But it's worth a look at that price! Besides, jeans are The Gap's specialty so they have a big variety.
Of course, It's hard to think of wearing jeans in this 90-plus degree heat. Jean shorts, maybe? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
If you didn't go today, hurry to Macy's on Sunday (June 21) for its big clearance sale.
First, I found the white leather belt I've been looking, marked down to only $9. Then I moved on to clothes, trying on many 50% off tops. I was about to give up when I spied a black-and-white Alfani dress on the 75 percent off rack.
After trying it on, there was no question: I had to have it. It's that kind of dress that will go anywhere and look great.
When I went to buy it, the Macy's saleswoman began her spiel about Macy's credit card. I haven't had a department store credit card for years -- too expensive. But with an extra 20 percent off on anything I buy over the next two days, I succumbed.
Besides, the dress ended up being discounted by about 80 percent. Heck, it was practically free, as long as I pay off my credit card. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
Saks Fifth Avenue's discount store, Off-5th is offering its employee discount, 30%, to customers. Not bad, since it also applies to clearance merchandise, giving you a savings as much as 50%. Discount applies Wed, June 10, through Tues., June 16.
Check out the stores at Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise and Dolphin Mall in Miami.
Here's the coupon:
-- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Everybody loves 'em. Get your 20% off Steinmart coupons right here for the store's big summer sale, through Sunday, June 7:
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
White is an essential part of a summer wardrobe. Get this white top, perfect for the office or casual meeting, for only $9.98 from Ann Taylor.
Ann Taylor is having a "must have" 60% off sale. Among the marked down items are a few gems under $10.
Before you head to a store or online, check your closet and see what you're missing. Does that white shirt you had still look clean and crisp, or is it time to replace it? Now's your chance. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Tracy Feith's collection at Target stores made me ooh and ahh. Fun, flirty and full of bold colors and patterns. Just what a girl needs for her summer wardrobe.
I gravitated toward a cute floral strappy dress that wasn't available in my size. Alas, the fashion gods weren't in my favor and my wallet thanked them.
Though skirts, shorts, dresses and shirts in Feith's collection were affordable, they were a little more than I expected to dish out during my trip to Target.
Here's a sampling of his collection: a seafoam, bow trimmed bikini dotted with a tiny floral print for $16.99 per piece (I'll be back for that one); an airy white summer dress accenting the waistline for $44.99; and an embroidered ebony thigh-skimming dress for $39.99. Check out Feith's collection here.
Keep in mind, it's a limited time selection available online and at stores through June 20.
What I did buy: a $9 bohemian inspired tissue tee from Mossimo. The ethnic print shirts come in nice hues of yellow, purple, orange and blue. I bought this racerback tank that is light and comfy-- perfect for a lazy summer Sunday.
--Erika "Frugal Fashionista" Pesantes
You know you love looking sleek. Go ahead, add a little sheen.
Save 25 percent off cotton sateen dresses, skirts, shorts and pants from Express. Get a sateen tube dress like this banana yellow one perfect for summer nights for $52.12, down from $69.50. Check out those deals here.
And for deeper discounts "Shop the Box Sale" for up to 70 percent off hip clothing. Rummaging through cardboard boxes full of goodies at Express stores is always worth the dig.
But for an instant discount, check out the website here.
The heat's coming on, but offices are always a few degrees too chilly. Warm up and look stylishly cool with a cardigan like this aquamarine one on sale for $19.99 down from $49.50.
And for a casual soiree slip on this silk lace cami, yours for $9.99. You can't say being a fashionista is tough in this recession. Happy shopping.
--Erika "Frugal Fashionista" Pesantes
I'm about to visit my aunt and no doubt we'll end up at JC Penney's or some other fantastic sale. Bargain hunting is in our blood starting with my grandmother. My mother, aunt and I definitely have the genes.
JC Penney is advertising it's "biggest sale of the season," and from a look online, there are some great prices, such as $17.99 for this chocolate brown St. John's Bay top.
Doorbusters 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. That's where you can find the best deals.
If you shop online, take 40 percent off of regular prices and 10 percent off sale prices. But the stores might be worth perusing as well; my aunt and I have found some gems on the clearance racks. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Gotta have shorts in South Florida. Fortunately, shorts come in all styles and lengths these days. I like shorts that are comfortable and not too short.
The Gap has all varieties and they're on sale, marked down 25%, through Sunday, May 17. Stock up! It has already hit 90 degrees. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
If this summer is as hot as today in South Florida, you better get your wardrobe ready.
Lightweight pants and capris at Gap can help get you through these sweaty months. I bought a pair of dress capris today at CityPlace's Gap for only $17. They were marked down to $27 and then another 40 percent off!
I left lots of choices for you in pinstripe, tan, black and other basics. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Everything is up for grabs on New York & Company's "buy one, get second style 50% off" online sale. See New York & Company.
Here's a snazzy swimsuit for only $19.95. The second style you choose needs to be at or under that price or the higher price applies.
There are also tops, pants, dresses, jackets and accessories. Great time to stock up before that summer vacation! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
If you visit Mizner Park in Boca Raton tonight for its Cinco de Mayo celebration, stop by the Francesca's boutique near Starbucks. I recently discovered this store, unusual for Mizner Park, in that the clothing and jewelry in the store is different and isn't expensive.
I liked many of the colorful tops, such as the one above, and dresses, as well as $12 belts and two for $20 earrings. Dresses are $34-$44 and tops around $30-$35. The shop has lots of fun gifts as well. I spied a bride-to-be picking up some fun items for her bridesmaids for wedding shower fun.
If you're not drinking $5 Margaritas tonight offered at Mizner's Cinco de Mayo celebration, then check out their clothing online at Francesca's Collections. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Can't decide how to accessorize an outfit? Don't know what really works for your body type?
Try the free personal shopping service at Filene's Basement, 17651 Biscayne Boulevard
in Aventura. Filene's says it is offering a "budget-friendly" makeover to shoppers with fashion expert Maysa Barrial, the store's new personal shopper.
Maysa holds a degree in fashion design and is member of the Image Consultants of America.
"Looking great has nothing to do with the amount of money you spend. It's about being creative, finding deals, and styling them well," Maysa says. "This year it's about reviving what you already have and building upon it with bold, versatile, feel good pieces."
All of us can use a little help, especially when it's free. For an appointment, call
Schedule your free session Monday- Saturday at Filene's Basement in Aventura by e-mailing her at personal.shopper@filenesbasement.com or calling 305-936-2497. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I was chatting with friends yesterday evening about traveling. Oh, how I love to travel. I have wonderful memories of trips with my son and friends to Spain, France, Italy and England.
If you're planning a trip this spring or summer, one necessity for the suitcase is a basic travel dress. This is the dress that you can roll up and it doesn't wrinkle. It looks good for the leisurely walk around town in an afternoon as well as for dinner in the evening, dressed up with a scarf or jewelry.
TravelSmith is a great source for such clothing and it's travel dress is marked down from regular $79 to $69. Color choices include black, garnet, poppy red, sage, french roast (brown) and midnight navy. Hey, go crazy, and buy two. And send me a postcard. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
It's spring and time for outdoor activities including softball, soccer and rugby.
If looking fashionable is important to you, check out the rugby line at Ralph Lauren. Better yet, get it 30% off with this coupon online and in stores: Ralph Lauren coupon.
The 30% discount is available at Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Stores, Ralph Lauren, RRL and Rugby stores in the U.S. and online at RalphLauren.com and Rugby.com from March 31 through April 14, 2009. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
T-shirt, push-up, convertible, full support -- you name it, all kinds of bras are on sale for $12.99 and up at Gap. The sale is online only.
GapBody, which is the underwear line at Gap, offers comfy bras, underwear and sleepwear. If you're looking for super sexy, this probably isn't the place.
We women are pretty much stuck with bras. Don't think we're going to return to the '60s anytime soon. So you might as well be comfortable. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Caught the Today show this morning and a Glamour magazine editor was showing where to find affordable brands from retailers.
One was a military-type jacket that could be worn to the office or anywhere from the Topshop, a British retailer.
There was a strapless red flowered dress for $39 at Newport News, which often has great discounts.
And Madewell, which is owned by J. Crew, but no stores in South Florida.
And Liz Claiborne New York, renvented by Issac Mizrahi. I liked the wear-anywhere $99 dress with a black top and striped skirt from Liz Claiborne.
Bargain fashion worth checking out -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I love Tommy Bahamas clothes, but they're a bit pricey. The solution? Go to a sample sale.
A Tommy Bahama Sample Sale is being held this Saturday and Sunday (March 21 and 22), from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Miami Seaquarium on Key Biscayne. I spied this deal on SocialMiami.com.
The site says the sale features men's t-shirts and woven shirts in size large only and shorts and pants in waist size 34. There is no charge to attend the event, and shoppers will receive $7.50 off the price of admission to Miami Seaquarium. So take the kids!
A portion of the sale proceeds go to benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet. For more information, call 305-749-1842. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
There it was on a rack with yesterday's fashion news: a dark brown Elie Tahari structured jacket, marked down from more than $200 to $58 with another 60 percent off!
I should have grabbed it and ran to checkout at Loehmann's yesterday in Boca Raton, but my new-found sensiblity caught hold. Do I really need the jacket? Did I have anything to wear it with? Wasn't it really too warm and dark for South Florida?
So, sadly, I returned it to the rack and bought what I went there for in the first place, discount hose.
But the clearance sale goes on at Loehmann's. Hmmm...maybe I should check another store today. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Get 25% off one item at Victoria's Secret through March 29.
Also get a complimentary bra fitting. Hmm....why wouldn't a bra fitting be for free? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I once thought of Talbot's clothing as something my mother would wear, but now I think of it as great career and casual wear. And as Carrie once said on Sex & The City, even at certain age it's time to "cover up."
Talbot's is holding its "One Sweet Sale," with blouses, sweaters, pants, jackets and other items 40% to 70% off through March 31. Here's a geometic skirt on sale for $34.99.
I may come away from Talbot's feeling a bit like Mom, but then she's still pretty sharp looking in her later years.-- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I have a weakness for dresses. Ross Dress for Less is having its annual dress sale this weekend, March 6-7. At Kohl's, the Simply Vera line is on sale.
I went to Ross just last week to find a green outfit for a St. Patrick's Day party. I bought an emerald green print dress that I can wear anyday, not just St. Paddie's, for only $19.99. Guess I have the luck of the Irish! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Free bridal gowns are available for up to 25 women who are serving in the military or are fiancées of men serving overseas. Bridal Couture of Boca Raton is donating the wedding gowns, worth from $800 to $1,000, in a range of sizes.
In order to qualify for a free wedding dress, the brides must be engaged, be on active duty, or have a fiancée on active duty. A copy of deployment papers, orders, an ID, or any other documentation indicating active duty is required for the free gown.
Brides who are enlisted or are fiancés of men serving “are having a hard enough time as it is,” said Nicole Hochman, store owner, in her announcement. “A wedding dress should be the least of their worries.”
Bridal Couture is located at 8212 Glades Road in Boca Raton. Visit Boca Bridals or call 561-470-1140 for more information. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
We wouldn't live in South Florida if we didn't love the sea. So why not wear sea-themed clothing if it's not too hokey?
If you've got the figure, Anthropologie has the pencil skirt. It's cotton with an acetate lining and features a lassos circle.
It sells for $198, but you can wear it almost everywhere -- if you dress it up or down. It could look just as fine with stilletos or sneakers. Go to Anthropologie.
XOXO --Shopper Girl
My sister bought me the Sophie Kinsella series that begins with Confessions of a Shopaholic and she knows me well. Need I say more?
I am a shopaholic. Like Rebecca (Isla Fisher) in the movie, I love the smell of Italian leather, the neat piles of new clothes in stores and the display windows of NYC. Unlike Rebecca, I get scared away by a price tag in triple digits.
The movie is hardly a personal finance lesson. In fact, it has set off a blog craze. Other shopaholics have got to have that green scarf!
(Rebecca must have a green scarf for a magazine job interview but her credit cards are nearly maxed out. She's saved by a man at a hot dog stand who hands her $20 to get rid of her so he can get his lunch. The man turns out to be the interviewing editor.)
Yahoo! Answers says Patricia Field used a sample scarf from Dolce and Gabbana for the movie. Patricia Field
announces hold on, the green scarf is in the making! Film critic Caryn James says the movie makes her want to buy a green scarf: Huffington Post
Do I need a green scarf? Well, St. Patrick's Day is coming up.... -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite from all the beautiful dresses on the Oscars last night. It's an escape from reality to admire fashiondom's finest on the red carpet. Did you notice this year, there were no Swans or Gap t-shirts to start tongues wagging?
The morning of the Oscars, fellow blogger Marcia and I made the trek over to the Miromar outlets on the west coast, between Naples and Ft Myers, a one hour drive across Alligator Alley. I was down to the wire looking for a dress for a wedding I'm attending Friday night.
My reality is that Marcia found for me, tucked away in a clearance rack in the Jones of New York outlet, an Evan Picone black dress marked down to $29. Not something I would have bought if I waited for the dress, but I was out of time, and for $29, who cares?
I couldn't help but chuckle as I watched the red carpet and the Oscars when I got home, with my $29 dress hanging in its plastic garment bag on my bedroom door in the background.
BTW, this is not necessarily a recommendation for that drive to the outlet mall, I probably would have done just as well at nearby Sawgrass Mills. The part of the trip I would recommend is watching the sunset with a Pina Colada at HBs on the beach behind the Naples Beach Club Hotel after a hard day of shopping. That place is hopping on Sunday evening.
Macy's must be clearing inventory for spring.
Regular items are 30 percent to 85 percent off and clearance items 40 percent to 50 percent off starting Friday , Feb. 20, (preview day) and going through Saturday, Feb. 21.
Catch the morning specials both days until 1 p.m. Shoes are $10 off for every $50 purchase, but you might find some on clearance for less. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
I just discovered a Website that has everything from designer names like Badgley Mischka, Anna Sui and Nicole Miller to great looking dresses for under $100.
You have to check it out for yourself, but here are a couple of the lower-priced dresses with style.
The flared print jersey dress, right, is $92, and this strapless beauty is on sale for $80.75.
Find them at Dresses under $100
XOXO -- Shopper Girl
Ann Taylor sale spotted on CheapCheapCheap.com
Buy one top for 20 percent off; two tops for 30 percent off. There are some nice choices for spring, such as this crisp lace-trim top.
This top and another at $49.99 would cost you about $69 for two at a 20 percent discount.
Not exactly "cheap," but not bad for a quality top. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
J.C. Penney's is offering a buy one, get one free deal on clearance items. Preview is today and Thursday with advertised sale Friday through Sunday, Jan. 25. So the time to go is today or Thursday before items are picked over.
The buy one, get one is a great time to pick up staples: exercise clothes, underwear, tops that go with everything.
Bring a relative or friend to a clearance sale. It's great fun. I remember one J.C. Penney sale with my Aunt J. from New York, one of the ultimate bargain hunters of the family, and when an item on a sale rack wasn't marked down, she talked them into dropping the price.
I'm betting Aunt J. will be at J.C. Penney's this week. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
Ok, I know you have been blinded by the gold of Michelle Obama's inauguration outfit by one of her fave designers Isabel Toledo. The pale-gold embossed coat had a matching shift dress with a blingy geometric, diamanté neckline.
But how about the shoes? Carrie Bradshaw alert. She was wearing Jimmy Choos 'Glacier' leather pumps in a striking shade of green, according to the Telegraph in the U.K . They are $695 on dsw.com.
So what do you thnk of the outfit? And is Michelle the "New Jackie Kennedy" or not? I agree with fellow blogger Kathy. She's tall and attractive but she isn't Jackie. Come on, let's start a discussion.
XOXO -- Shopper Girl
It might be time to freshen up your bathroom with new towels and rugs. If so, Bloomingdale's has put many of its designer towels on sale for 20% to 50% off. These Charisma towels are on sale for $6.39 to $35.99. Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren towels also are included in the sale.
More select items are on marked down 25% to 40% on Bloomingdales.com. But I'd stick the the towels unless you must have Juicy Couture sweatpants. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
Well, I was really tempted to get that black Anne Klein at Macys.com; it was online for about two minutes for $107. But I hedged and now it's back up to $168.
But that's OK. I found two dresses at Macy's Wellington store today and bought both for less than $100. Neither is black, which is a surprise, but both are more versatile than the Anne Klein, anyway. Each was 50 percent off the retail price plus I got another 15 percent off with Macy's coupon in the Sun Sentinel on Sunday and Monday.
This Evan Picone red dress at right is marked down from $99 to $69 online. I got it for $45 with my coupon in the store.
That coupon is still good through Tuesday, Dec. 30, so don't throw it -- or the newspaper -- away! I left plenty of dresses there for you. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds
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
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:
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
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
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
