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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

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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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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:

NY & Co. coupon

Lots more out there? What have you found so far? Post the specials for everyone here. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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:

New York & Company coupon

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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

Take 30 percent off any in-store purchase at NY and Company or 30% off a $75 purchase online.

Coupon

Get this little black dress for only $19.97!
Looks like the perfect addition to my summer wardrobe. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

"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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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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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:

Off-5th coupon

-- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

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Get 25% off one item at Victoria's Secret through March 29.

Victoria's Secret coupon

Also get a complimentary bra fitting. Hmm....why wouldn't a bra fitting be for free? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

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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

> Discuss this entry

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.

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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

> Discuss this entry

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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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

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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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With New Year's Eve around the corner, this is the time to look for evening dress sales. Macy's 50 percent off sale -- some already 50 percent off on clearance -- is a pleasant surprise. Check it out this weekend. You never know when you might need a nice dress.

Unfortunately, some thoughtless shopper played a dirty trick on me. I found a magnificent little black dress by Anne Klein on the clearance rack, tried it on and loved it. (One of those dresses that fits like a dream.) But the tag was not marked clearance. Sure enough it wasn't marked down. At $168, sadly I had to pass.

Then, I got home and checked Macys.com and the dress is marked down to $107. Should I splurge? -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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We women are certainly done with our Christmas shopping by now (well, almost), so now it's time to shop for ourselves! All the last-minute men will be wandering the malls this weekend -- poor lost souls. (Hey, another reason to go shopping for the single ladies.)

Look for the Christmas rush sales such as New York & Company's 50 percent off everything plus another 10 percent with this coupon:

10% off coupon

Unfortunately, this coupon is only good at Wellington Mall. Fine print says "not Broward Mall." Use it Saturday or Sunday up to 2 p.m.

This, and right after Christmas, is a great time to update your wardrobe for work or play. This is a cute ruffled jacket from New York & Company.

I'm on it. You? Tell me what good deals you're finding out there. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Lisa Perry, the designer who has a love of 1960s vintage couture fashion and art, will open her third boutique in the U.S. on December 17 in Palm Beach.

She has cool stuff like this multi-colored dress. Other items range from architecture, fashion and art books, jewlery, rare DVDs of movies from the 60s and vintage Heller dishware in bright colors.

No wonder she loves this stuff Her bio says: She grew up in the 'burbs of Chicago with Marimekko in her bedroom, a Saarinen filled living room and two-tone orange shag in her family room. (OMG, I shouldn't admit this, but I had two-tone orange shag in my bedroom in the 70s.)

Her Web site, lisaperrystyle.com doesn't give any prices, but expect them to be pricey in her 'hood. The store is located at 245A Worth Ave. in Palm Beach. For the holidays, it will be open 12 .m.-6 p.m. daily. Sunday hours continue only until Jan. 4.

We can still dream, can't we?

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Saks Fifth Avenue's Off 5th, located at Sawgrass Mall, is offering the oh, so cozy feel of cashmere for 60 percent off. Sweaters, hats, gloves and scarves are included.

Might be a good last minute gift for the relative up north who doesn't live in paradise.

The sale is only good until noon Saturday, Dec. 13. Off 5th also is offering 30 percent off the entire store through Sunday, Dec. 14. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Thanks to the folks at Kohl’s we don't have to search Websites for their Black Friday specials.

Better get to bed early Thanksgiving night because Kohl's opens at 4 a.m. The Early Bird specials are from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thanksgiving shoppers also will get $10 off future purchases for every $50 spent.

Here are some of the 300 specials:

Toys: 50 percent off entire stock including popular brands like Fisher Price, Playskool, Barbie, Tonka, Matchbox and Hot Wheels. This year it also covers Little Tikes, Crayola and Play-Doh.

Designer brands for misses: 40 to 50 percent off entire stock of apparel including:
Simply Vera Vera Wang – $17 to $100.80, originally $34 to $168; Elle Contemporary Collection – $8.99 to $49.99, originally $24 to $84; Daisy Fuentes – $8.99 to $35.00, originally $18 to $89.

Chaps apparel for misses (selected styles): 55 to 60 percent off; $13.50 to $75.80, originally $30 to $189.50.

High-definition video camera value pack including 2GB SD card, tripod, rechargeable batteries, cable and pouch. Records HD video and captures still images up to 12M resolution: $99.99; regularly $199.99.

Kohl's is cool. You can check out the ads now at kohls.com.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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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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Normally, we don't like to blog about dresses in the triple digits during these tough times. But this Africian orchid dress from Tommy Bahama is equivalent to the "little black dress" of the sub-tropics. You can wear it everywhere!

This sexy, strapless dress is 61 percent silk and 39 percent cotton. It sells for $225. For more info, see tommybahama.com.

PIcture wearing this little number while you are sipping a mojito with your main man.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Are you heading to Burlington Coat Factory for Black Friday specials?

Here are some of the cool things in their ads:

Hannah Montana or Spiderman jacket for $19.99

Gloria Vanderbilt twill jeans for $7.99

Diamond Accent Pendants for $29.99

You can find all of these ad scans on http://bfads.net/Adscans

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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I love these events where you can go out with the girls, shop and have a heck of a good time.

Mark your calendar from Nov. 19 and Nov. 20 for Shecky's Girls Night Out at the Catalina Hotel in South Beach. The Sheckys' folks tell us they will have designer fashions up to 75 percent off (including cocktail dresses -- If only I had a place to wear one, sigh), complimentary spa services, cocktails and munchies.

Each room of the hotel's main building will reflect the style and personality of each of the designers. You can purchase tickets to win a Goodie Bag, which will be stuffed with more than $100 of must-have products -- such as Aquafresh White Trays, Aveeno, Chambord, Dove, Good Earth Premium Coffee and Redken.

Hours are from 6 to11 p.m. You must be 21 or older to attend. The hotel is located at 1732 Collins Ave. (305-674-1160). Admission is $10. Or pay $25 for two Goodie Bag tickets including admission. See sheckys.com for more info.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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My friend E. from North Carolina was visiting this weekend for a special event. We had some time to kill so we headed to the Sawgrass outlet mall, of course.

We checked out the 50 percent sale at Coach and then Michael Kors outlet store. Coach has some great buys right now, but even at 50 percent off, their handbags are at least $100 -- too much for sensible girls like us who grew up in the Midwest.

But we soon found our bargain at nearby Michael Kors: The French rosebud dress in cream or red, for only $49.99. We liked the red version -- so we both bought it.

This may be the perfect dress. It fits like a dream and it does not wrinkle. It was wrapped up in a tiny Michael Kors bag and unrolled in perfect form -- great for travel.

Two friends shopping together can rack up deals at Sawgrass. We needed black stockings to go with the dress so we headed to Saks Off 5th. We found Donna Karan "invigorating" stockings for only $4.99. Since we bought them together, we even got half off one pair!

Now a diehard Floridian, I rarely don a pair of stockings. It's just too darn hot. But these were fantastic: I've got to go back for more.

All in all, a successful shopping day. Bring a friend with you: it can pay off in savings and laughs. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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If you are engaged and are on active duty in the military or have a fiance on active duty, you may be able to get a free designer wedding gown worth up to $1,800.

Bill South, co-owner with his wife, Patricia, of Patricia South The Bride's Choice, says to qualify you must show them deployment papers to Iraq or Afghanistan for you or your hubby to be and a military ID. Ten wedding gowns will be given away at the event on a first come, first serve basis. The event, which celebrates Veterans Day, will be held on Nov. 11. Brides do not have to reside in the area where the giveaway is taking place.

To reserve your appointment, call 954-791-6007. The shop is located at 4066 West Broward Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. See http://www.abrideschoice.com/
For other participating stores and states check out http://www.bridesacrossamerica.com/.

What a great way to show graditude for those risking their lives in these wars. We salute you, Bill and Patricia!

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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It's my 39th birthday again and all week long I've been getting cards from my favorite retailers, or at least those I signed up for discounts by mail.

White House/Black Market sent me $10 off any purchase; I just have to use it by the end of the month. Same offer with Victoria's Secret.

Loehmann's sent me a birthday postcard with a 15 percent discount valid anytime during my birthday month. And DSW sent me a $5 off postcard, but the purchase has to be $19.95 or more -- a little cheaper but I do get discounts from them all the time.

If you're concerned about giving out your birthday when signing up for these offers, use the first day of your birthday month. My friend J does that and then gets a full month to use the birthday discounts. -- 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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One of the good reasons to shop the Coldwater Creek catalog is you can save money on returns if you take the item you don't want back to the local store. No packing it up and going to the post office. That takes a lot of the pain out of catalog or online shopping.

This is the second time I have returned clothing to the store at The Terrace at Town Center in Boca Raton. No problems. Everything went smoothly

The problem was the jacket I loved was cut too small in the sleeves. And the fitted blouse was way too fitted for my taste. (See them at right.)

Anyhow, my refund was minus the initial shipping charge, and I lost the $10 coupon that I used to make the purchase. But the saleswoman gave me this good advice: If you place a catalog order at the store, you don't have to pay shipping, and it will be sent to your home, not the store.

I called Coldwater Creek to make sure she was giving me the right info and it is correct. But when I checked on the coupon to see if I could get a new one, she informed me that it wasn't refundable. My best advice: Use those coupons to buy something in the store, if possible. You know the clothing is right and you won't lose the coupon's value.

You may want to check out the online specials at coldwatercreek.com. My jacket, which was $89.50 is now $43.99.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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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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A trunk show Thursday from 4pm-7pm...have a look at the unique hair accessories in the Evita Peroni line. Jeweled holiday pieces, leather headbands, gorgeous clips and barrettes...

Joann, the national trainer for Evita Peroni, will be at the trunk show to demonstrate simple techniques that transform our look from OK to fabulous.

Evita Peroni

In the Harbor Shops at 17th Street Causeway in Ft Lauderdale.

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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

> Discuss this entry

My friend and shopping diva Kathy told you about Filene's Basement opening Oct. 15 in Aventura. The other important date she left out is Jan. 16: The annual "running of the brides" sales event at Filene's Basement, this time in Aventura.

Many a movie and TV show have captured the scene: Brides-to-be wading through yards of white to find their dream wedding dress at a bargain Filene's Basement price. It's the only day of the year Filene's has bridal dresses, on sale for $249 to $699. (Yeah, guys, they do cost that much -- usually much more!)

Me? I wouldn't be caught dead there. But, knock yourselves out, ladies. -- 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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Suck it in girls, it's nearly the season for little black dresses and evening gowns. Thanks to Spanx founder Sara Blakely, you don't have to hold your breath all evening.

And thanks to Neiman Marcus Last Call at Miami's Dolphin Mall, you can buy the Spanx original design -- tummy control and flab smoothing to just below the knee -- for only $12, regularly $20.

Since inventing Spanx -- why didn't we think of that? -- Blakely has expanded her line to many varieties including textured tights, slimming apparel, bras and socks. Her black pencil skirt, a retro favorite this fall season, has a built-in liner to smooth and shape you. The "Bod-a-Bing" skirt, at right, is $68 at Spanx.com.

You go Sara. Women everywhere thank you. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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You can always count on Ann Taylor for work dress -- or play. Work and casual tops are on sale at Ann Taylor stores this week for as little as $19.99.

I snapped up two tops and a matching skirt at Ann Taylor store at CityPlace.

What I also like about Ann Taylor is the saleswomen are actually helpful. I found out, for example, that I fit in a medium/petite size top. I never thought a petite size would fit me, but many are not that different from a medium, one saleswoman told me.

That opens up a whole new world on the sales rack. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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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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Have you been eyeballing a particular pair of Nine West shoes.....don't want to pay retail?

I'm with you, I have a serious aversion to retail. It's not as good as a great sale, but if you can't wait, here's a coupon. Until October 31st you can save $10 on a purchase of $65 or more when you pay with a Visa card, in Nine West stores and online.

Use coupon code NWVIS8 online or print the page in the link below and present at time of purchase.


NineWest Coupon

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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 ashamed to admit I was watching the 60th anniversary Emmys' red carpet last night. What a waste of an evening just to see "who" celebrities are wearing. Let's chalk it up to guilty pleasure.

I was not impressed by most dresses. What I did notice is that nearly all of them, young and old, had luminescent skin -- it just glowed. This was especially true on Sex and the City's Cynthia Nixon and others who wore strapless or off-the-shoulder gowns.

No doubt they spent all day at a spa -- in fact celebrity admitted it in a TV interview.

So what are we non-celebrities to do for such skin? An occasional spa visit helps.

"Spa Chic" treatments for $99 are available until Sept. 30 at Fort Lauderdale area spas. Some of the ritziest spas are included such as the Contour Spa at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood.

Check it out at Spa Chic. It's a promotional event through the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. Maybe you can look like a celebrity, too -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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We South Floridians have a fashion advantage: When everyone else is scurrying to keep up with fall fashions, we can buy summer fashions on sale -- as long as they're not too summery-looking.

I bumped into a sale of Evan-Picone dresses -- both casual and formal -- at Jones New York's stand-alone store in Hollywood, Fla. It's in the shopping plaza off I-95. You can take either the Hollywood or Sheridan exit to get there.

After trying on several no-sleeve and cap-sleeved print dresses, I chose two for $100 total: a blue and green geometric print and a black and brown print. Both lightweight dresses just below the knee.

The Jones New York store also has a great choice of short black dresses -- but not too short. Most are a longer length -- some too long for my height. And I'm no shrimp at 5-foot 6-inches tall (unless you compare me to my considerably taller sisters).

Dresses are $79.99 to $99.99 with another 40 percent off. We don't have fall weather but there are plenty of dress-up events in the fall and winter here. Time to stock up! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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If you don't know about dailycandy.com, check it out. You can sign up for local shopping info, national or both.

Here's a great tip of an event this week: toffmiami Sale 7-10 p.m. today (Sept. 11) at 4434 N. Bay Road, Miami Beach. It's more than just shopping for 20 percent off designer duds from Anna Sui, Jill Stuart and Krelwar. There will be cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

To show you what toffmiami sells, I checked out toffmiami.com and found this sexy Geren Ford dress in a cotton/linen blend.. The regular price is $246 and it's on sale for $73.80. That's even a better bargain than the 20 percent off sale.

Make it a girl's night out! Have a drink for me.

XOXO Shopper Girl

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Since I've been watching Michael Phelps record-breaking achievements in the Olympics this week, I've been curious about Speedo's new LZR Racer suit that he and others are wearing.

According to Speedo, "the Fastskin LZR Racer is the result of some of the most extensive research in swimwear history. Made from an ultra lightweight, low drag, water repellent, fast drying fabric, unique to Speedo, called LZR Pulse, the LZR Racer is the world’s first fully bonded swimsuit."

The benefits, they list as:
5% better oxygen efficiency, enabling swimmers to swim faster for longer**

4% faster in starts, sprints and turns**

Internal core stabiliser supports and holds the swimmer in a corset-like grip and helps them to maintain the best body position in the water for longer. The result...faster performances.

Reduces muscle oscilation and skin vibration through the world's lightest, most powerful and water repellant swim fabric. The athlete has complete freedom of movement.

I doubt whether the suit is responsible for Phelps' magnificent performance and I don't think we'll see the LZR on South Florida's beaches anytime soon, but interesting stuff. Parents, may be worth noting for your budding Olympian. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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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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A friend was driving to Vero Beach to check out a house -- under $200,000, by the way -- and invited me to tag along to go outlet shopping.

Vero Fashion Outlet is about an hour and a half away from where I live in Palm Beach County. Is it worth the price of gas? It was for me, because someone else was driving, and because the sales were fantastic: 50 to 70 percent off at most designer outlook shops.

My best buy: a $49 Max & Cleo dress marked down from $188 originally at the BCBG Max Azria outlet. I also found two tops I can wear to work for only $11.99 apiece at Calvin Klein and Van Heusen and buy-one-get-one-free jewelry at Jones New York.

Moreover, my mother benefited because I found her unusual narrow shoe size at Clark's outlet. If the shoes don't fit, I was told I could take them back to any other regular store closer to home. So I don't have to pay for any extra gas to return them. What a good deal!

Vero Fashion Outlet: Worth the trip, especially if your friend is driving. You might want to check out the houses, too. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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I stopped by Marshall's on my lunch hour and was amazed to hear a saleswoman hawking a new selection of purses from Italy. "Don't miss these ladies," she called out to women shoppiing the purse aisle.

You never know what treasures -- or junk -- you might at find Marshall's, and that's the fun of it for the real shopper. Today I found an Anne Klein dress marked down to $20.

I purused the Italian purses, from Francesco Biasia, but they were too expensive for my taste at $99 to $120. Most be older models because they don't look like any purses on Francesco Biasia

As I was checking out, I noticed Dooney & Bourke large-sized bags behind the counter for $250. Is Marshall's going upscale?

Other finds were more down to earth or back to school: Cayman or Earl & Wilson cotton quilts in either a blue or red patterns for $39.99, plus matching sheets and pillows available. Also kids' school uniforms, lunch boxes and clothes for that almost here first day of school. Happy hunting. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Don't you hate when your friends tell you about all the money they saved at a great sale, as in "these Stuart Weitzman shoes were only $19.99," but they don't tell you until wayyyyy after it's over?

I had a few spare moments this weekend while visiting family in Atlanta, did my usual sale check at Dillards, love their 75% off sales, but nothing much there right now. Then on to Macy's, and lo and behold, the signs were up! An extra 40% off the 75%!! My kind of sale!!!

I bought some great basics: khaki pants and navy shorts for practically nothing.

I called Macy's here, and YAYYY! they are a week behind Atlanta. The Super Sale starts here tomorrow! Thursday.

Take an extra 40% off sale prices in Mens/Womens Apparel starting Thursday July 17th though Sunday. Extra 50% off womens clearance shoes. The handbag sale (50-75% off) starts today thru the 31st.

Let the savings begin!!!

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Remember the Arab oil embargo of 1973? Apparently, all the politicians forgot. So, as we struggle with gas prices over $4 a gallon, many of us are planning our shopping trips more than ever before.

We on the shopping blog promise to make your lives easier and to save you gas by letting you know about all the new store openings.

Here goes: A new 4,200-square-foot Lilly Pulitzer store will open on June 27th at The Terrace in Town Center at Boca Raton. The new store will have women's, men's and children's collections as well as gifts and accessories, including bags, shoes, jewelry and eyewear.

Palm Beach's Lilly Pulitzer no longer owns her namesake label, but the designers have taken her bright colors and fun patterns and updated them. I just love the look. Perfect for Florida -- then and now.

XOXO --- Shopper Girl

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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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The last time I was in Talbots was to buy a gift certificate for a friend's brithday. She lives in Philadelphia and could be in a Talbots' advertisement. Don't you just hate people like that?

Anyhow, yesterday the store sent me a postcard announcing the "Summer Sale: Save up to 50 percent off original prices." It said supply is limited and "when they're gone, they're gone." So hurry, girlfriend.

For those of you who are mall-o-phobic, you can also get the deals on the Website (www.talbots.com). My closest Talbots is at Town Center in Boca Raton. Check the Web site for more locations.

To let you know what the deals are like, here are two good buys with Talbots' simple chic that I found on the Web site.

Scoop neck cabled sweater --- was $38 and is now $18.99.

Two-piece linen dress -- was $158 and is now $78.99.

Have fun...Remember most stores are finished with summer clothing by mid-July. Then they stock winter clothes that we can't wear unless we travel up north. I never did understand that marketing. You'd think more SoFla stores could stock summer stuff yearround.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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It's no surprise that I would choose one of my favorite stores for my first entry. With at least ten South Florida locations for your shopping delight, White House I Black Market http://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/home.jsp
is a must for classic clothes and accessories that fit so well it's like the pieces are custom made.

What's even more attractive to me is the store's sale rack, I'm talking up to 50% off . The website has a constant supply of sale items.
If you sign up to become Black Book member, you get an extra 5% off all purchases plus free shipping. Then there's the extra 5% off you get for your birthday.

Here are a few of my favorites from the website's sale items.
This Watersberry Bustier is 100% silk and only $39.99.

Or how cute is this Grand Scales Bracelet, priced at $19.99

Let me know what favorites you find for yourself.

Heather.

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Remember when I told you about ordering some stuff on line and finding great bargains?

Well, the order came and everything fit except one pair of cropped pants. The legs were huge. The waist was huge. Just not a good fit.

So last weekend I tested the Coldwater Creek policy and attempted to return the merchandise to the Boca Raton store in the Terrace at Town Center. The experience couldn't have been better. The return went easy and I found another pair of pants that I never would have ordered on line.

The reason? My salesman -- Rene. Yes, that's Rene as in a man's name. He is one of the store managers and one of the most savvy sales people I have encountered in years. He gave me a great lesson on which style pants fit different body types. I ended up with a zipper front pant that fits like a charm.

The funny thing is Rene told me that the female customers often don't want a guy to help them. This is utter sillness. He doesn't go into the dressing room with you. He just gives his expert advice. And, to tell the truth, he was better than any of the female sales people I have come across in any clothing store.

Even my husband was impressed.

"I really enoyed that something experience," he said. "It's great to meet a sales person who knows what he is talking about. That's the way it used to be when stores cared about service."

Take my advice: If you go to Coldwater Creek in Boca, ask for Rene. You won't be sorry.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

P.S. By the way, Coldwater Creek sales people work on salary, not on commission.

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Betcha that some of you would have loved to buy the Norma Kamali suit that Miranda wore in the Sex and the City movie (see below), put cringed at the triple-digit price. Me, too.

Cringe no more, fashionistas. While flipping through a Lands End catalog this weekend, I came across this "Slender Tunic" suit. It isn't exactly like the Miranda's, but it has been dipping in the same gene pool. And better yet, this one can hide body flaws -- with its shirring and draped front. It claims to make you look a size smaller. If you buy it, let me know if the claim is true or just hype for all of us bathing suit phobics.

It comes in several sizes, incuding regular torso, short torso, women's, women's petite and women's mastectomy. Colors vary by size and include blackberry, agave, rich brown, black and black/ivory lotus print.

Better yet, the price is right. Depending on size, it ranges from $82.50-$92.50. See www.landsend.com for details.

See ya at the beach.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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The Sex and the City movie is out today. Will you be there?

The girls are back! When you see Miranda, aka Cynthia NIxon second from right, on a getaway with her Sex and the City gal pals in Mexico, she'll be wearing this red hot swinsuit from Norma Kamali.

Just love that sexy style that reminds me of something Marilyn Monroe would have worn. I found the info in an email from InStyle.com.

The magazine Web site says the Mio swimsuit is $350 (kind of pricey) from normakamalicollection.com.

Wonder how many gals will be seen on SoFla beaches wearing this number? What do you think?

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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I was totally disappointed in the Memorial Day sales this year, Charlyne did better online than I did in the mall!

I DID find some great knit t's on serious markdown at Ann Taylor. When I find a black 3/4 sleeve top for $6.86, watch out! I bought all the black size mediums at the Galleria store. It came in other colors, too, bright pink for one.

Nothing worse than hearing about a sale when it's over, so I called Ann Taylor to make sure they were still on sale and there were still some in stock. As of this posting, Wednesday May 28th, there are some left, still at the $6.86 sale price.

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My colleague Kathy Haines just blogged about great consignment stores in the Fort Lauderdale area. Thanks for the segue, Kathy. In this Sunday's Shop-o-matic section in Lifestyle, we feature The Prissy Hen in our Divine Find column. (And isn't it a small world...The Prissy's Hen's owner Diane Bosler used to own Hibiscus, the store Kathy was writing about!)

Here are the details from contributor Bonnie DiPacio:

The Prissy Hen
1825 Cordova Road, The Harbour Shops, Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-4484; Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m; Sunday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Owner: Diane Bosler. .

Quote: “A lot of folks just drop by to see Maxie,” says Bosler. Maxie is Bosler’s 2-year-old Havana bred Havanese pup, the shop’s official “greeter.”

Wow Factor: The bright raspberry, lime green and yellow decor accented with yellow and green daisies is a whimsical backdrop for the plethora of vintage and “previously worn” items that fill every inch of this delightful consignment store. Bosler says the fine quality of items available, especially the designer and couture apparel, has drawn in some “well-heeled clients” who not only drop off items to sell, but pick up some great buys themselves.

Don’t miss: Pashmina wraps (shown at right), in a wide variety of colors for $15; Cynthia Rowley sunglasses for $26; and jewelry that ranges from $12 to $600 (estate quality). There is also a big selection of gift items (note pads, magnets, frames, etc.) that Bosler calls the “fun stuff.”

Editor’s picks: An incredible necklace made up of triple strands of genuine turquoise for $45. A darling little yellow handbag dotted with tiny green palm trees and topped with rattan handles for $19. Emilio Pucci 1970’s blouses that sell on eBay for $400, yours for $125.

Design for less: Designer shoes and handbags from Manolo Blahnik, Kate Spade and Gucci, to name a few, priced from $75 to $250. All in pristine condition. Have a big charity event coming up? There are $650 couture gowns (some with the tags still on) for $99.

Trivia: Bosler, the former owner of Hibiscus vintage consignment store on Las Olas Boulevard, named her shop for the girlfriend of legendary cartoon rooster Foghorn /Leghorn. The Prissy Hen definitely lives up to its motto: “We make our customers smile.”

--K.V.W.

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We girls just love to shop, don't we? But gas and food are eating into disposable income.

Well, if your budget is tight, get some vicarious shopping through this video.

An aspiring Ford model, Desiree, and her friend shop vintage at Zachary's MIle in Soho.

Even a fashionista can learn something. Did you know that anything before 1980 is considered vintage? News to me.

Enjoy!

-- XOXO Shopper Girl

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These are really cool looking sunglasses -- for you or your mom.

Designer Edward Beiner, a native Brazilian, says he was inspired by Steve McQueen, Elvis, Audrey Hephurn, the sunny skies of Miami and Celtic designs for his new eyewear collection.

Beiner, who has lived in SoFla more than 20 years, is considered a design guru to stars such as Lindsay Lohan, Thalia, Alicia Keys, Gloria Estefan, Shaq, Jennifer Lopez and Sarah, the Duchess of York. But you don't have to be a star to afford his cool shades. They sell for $380. For more, see edwardbeiner.com.

The latest in his nine SoFla shops is at The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens.

Love them. Too bad my birthday has already passed. Hint. Hint.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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I have been looking for months for the perfect bag to go with my pair of gold tone, snakeskin shoes with a wedge heel.

Everything I found was either too glitzy or the wrong tone until I found this bag at Giovagio at the Town Center Mall in Boca Raton. My gold tone leather bag has pockets on each side for a cell phone or phones, two open pockets and a zippered compartment inside. It looks like a designer creation and sells for far less -- $75. Giovagio also sells jewelry and belts.

Joan Leger and her mother, Florence Leger, operate the kiosk located near Nordstrom and in front of Lucky Brand in a kiosk. It is open every day except Sunday. For information, call 786-873-9331.

I finally trained my husband. He no longer asks "Do you need another handbag?" He knows now that need has nothing to do with it. A new handbag is what a new hat was to another generation.

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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I’ve been shopping for an outfit for an annual St. Patrick’s Day party and I’m never ever able to find quite the right green. Kelly green seems most St. Pat’s-day-like, but it doesn’t flatter me. I look better in blue-green, but that’s like I'm not trying hard enough.


Another problem is I never know whether people are going to dress up or go casual for this March 17 celebration. One year it was outside and my green T-shirt was fine. The next year, the party was inside and women were wearing green cocktail dresses. I was back in my green T-shirt.

So I was determined to do better this year. I've looked at so much green apparel I'm dreaming in green.

I’ve settled on this “blade green” – is that like grass? – sundress from Ann Taylor Loft -- an in-between dress in a shade of in-between green. ($39, at right) After all, I’m only part Irish.

What are you wearing for St. Paddie's Day? Have you found anything fun out there?

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I have a confession: I was reading CBS Soaps when I discovered that soap opera star Eileen Davidson has a line of cool clothing. (My soap opera addiction is limited to The Young & The Restless, a sister soap that used to feature Davidson.)

Davidson, who plays Ashley Abbott on The Bold and The Beautiful, teamed with her niece, Devon Martt, a graduate of the Otis School of Art and Design who just happens to be married to Mike Martt of the cult favorite Sweet and Low Orchestra.

Anyhow, the two women, who are working moms, decided that other moms like them also wanted to look feminine and "put together" so they started a fashion line that looks sexy instead of stoggy. Their label, Femmeology is starting to show up in boutiques around the country.

It's really cool stuff, like this halter top (at right) that dresses up a pair of jeans. For more info, see www.femmeology.com. If you call 310-281-3387, you get a recording of Davidson's voice that promises to call back.

I'll let you know as soon as I find out about South Florida locations. What do you think? Does it work for you?

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

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By Marcia Heroux Pounds

Liz Claiborne, please look down upon the retailers from your perch in heaven and gift them with your common sense. There’s nothing to buy to wear to work anymore.

Claiborne, who died last year, noted as the designer of professional work-wear, yet affordable for women. There’s been a dearth of it of late.

I’ve scoured the racks of Macy’s, Loehmann’s and smaller mall stores in a desperate search for work clothes. Instead, I’ve found shirts and blouses that sport plunging necklines. Who are they designing for?

Quality is also lacking: The design is laughingly young and the material wears out with a few washings. And don’t get me started on finding a dress - a near impossibility.

Designer clothing is one way to go: The quality is better, but the price tag steep.

Last Saturday, persistence paid off: I finally found a pair of work-suitable Michael Kors’ straight-legged gray dress pants at Macy’s marked down to half price and then another 40 percent off.

Anybody else having trouble finding decent clothes to wear to work?

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Just heard about Christabelles Closet, an online consignment shop and am itching to give it a try.

Why?

How about a Marc Jacobs leather bag (which normally retails for $1200) for $500.

Or a BCBG black dress for $18.

Or a Lucky Brand swim cover up for $18.

The website gets daily additions and the merch looks like good quality (and good prices.) Customer feedback on the site says they package and deliver things beautifully.

One caveat: There is a no return policy. So you better be sure that the items will fit you.

K.V.W.

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Our team's tennis season has started (I play weekly in a Broward league) and this year's uniform is anything black and white. Haven't refreshed my tennis wardrobe in several years, so I headed over to Match Point Tennis on east Oakland Park Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a little look-see.

Oh my, it was heavenly. If you watched any of this year's US Open, you've seen how fashion forward tenniswear has come. Serena's black A-line with a pink bow accent. Maria's fab red Nike "evening"' dress. (Too bad she lost so early and didn't get to wear it much!)

Anyway, the choices are endless, the fabrics are amazing and Match Point has a great selection. I fell in love with this black outfit [YOC tank &skirt] by Adidas (I did get it for 10 percent off, but still pretty pricey) and also bought an Adidas white tee (it has great cutouts and cap sleeves) from an even more marked-down sale rack.

Should keep me styled all season, which goes till next May. (Let's hope my game will be as dazzling.)

--K.V.W.

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A little bit of retro, a little bit of bohemian, and a whole lot of everything in between, Babygirl Boutique (babygirlboutique.com) offers a huge selection of clothing styles in everyday basics.

But they also have an extensive a huge dress selection for fancy events.

Need a Halloween costume? They’ve got plenty of those, too. Whether you dream of being a fairy princess or something slightly more risque, there’s guaranteed to be something that suits your style.

One of the best parts about the site is ease of navigation. If the retro look is your thing you can narrow your selection down to just that style. Or just view pieces by a if you crave threads by a specific designer you can view just their pieces. You also can cast a wide net, searching by category: skirts, shoes, shirts & tops, etc.

Prices range from extremely affordable to more upscale (think: dropping $180 on for a handbag).

Our picks include:
Red stretch jersey polka-dot-print retro day dress with gathered bust ($39.95). (This is the dress shown at left.)
Rockabilly cherries velveteen corduroy low-waisted short shorts ($39.95).
Leg Avenue five-piece Rainbow Brite costume ($29.95).

(This info comes from the Sun-Sentinel's wire service)

-- K.V.W.

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Love this yoga tank, from the new company BuddhiWear Organics.

I'm not a yoga expert by any means, but I do know that the Savasana is the best part of the yoga class. It comes at the end and is generally known as the "corpse pose." Basically you lie down and let your entire body sink in the ground. And you breathe and relax (and try not to fall asleep.)

So, it would be funny to walk into a class wearing this.

There are other cute slogans ("Powered by Om" and "Tree Hugger") and all the tees are made of soft organic cotton. (There's also a line of baby and toddler wear.) The company is commited to being entirely eco- and green-friendly.

-- K.V.W.

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I drive a Hyundai so I'm totally entitled to wear this T-shirt by Green Label Organic clothing, which I found at the Whole Foods market in Plantation. It's $19.99 and there are other eco-friendly colors and designs. The Green Label Organic shirts are sweat-shop free, made in the USA, use low-impact reactive dye, printed without the use of plastics, preshrunk and 100 percent organic (natch).
-- G.G.S.

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From the very beginning Sarah Jessica Parker's retail mantra has been, "fashion is not a luxury, it's a right."

Big talk for a woman who gets her red carpet designer duds gratis from every top designer in the known hemisphere.

But with the debut of the style icon's own clothing line - called Bitten - Parker has put your money where her mouth is.

Every item retails for $19.98 or less at Steve & Barry stores, one of which opens August 1 in The Mall at 163rd in North Miami Beach. The summer collection includes belted shirtwaist dresses, drawstring capris, woven shirts, nightgowns, swimwear, graphic tees, denim and a full array of accessories. By the time the fall line hits store racks in August, there will be 500 apparel and accessories pieces ranging in sizes from 0 to 22.

"Women should be able to wear great clothes and not lie in bed at night feeling guilty about how much money they've spent," said Parker in a statement. "Steve & Barry's has made me a believer: High quality, luxurious clothes do not need to cost as much as we've been led to think."

-- R.S.H

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