Finding Stillness

This has been a summer of learning for me. A summer of growth and stillness. All my life I always felt like I had to be doing something to be productive. If I wasn't doing something I felt like I wasn't important, I wasn't worthy or I wasn't good enough. These lies I told myself meant that I always keep on going, keep proving myself. And so my wheels kept spinning and I kept finding myself feeling less and less satisfied.

When I first moved to New York City, I found myself having a bad case of FOMO (fear of missing out). I wanted to know what was going on, where to be, what to eat, what to listen to and always have the option to say no. Not that I said no often. I found myself running myself ragged to try to get to two or three events in a night, just to feel like I wasn't missing out on anything. I am realizing that while none of this is harmful it wasn't doing me any good either. At the end of the day, keeping up created a lot of mind clutter and noise to have to filter through. If you're like me and have an overflowing inbox that you never get to, you know my pain.

Until recently I had very little opportunity to stop and take a breath. I just worked. I worked to survive, to stay legal, to stay in this city. I felt a pressure to keep up with a life that wasn't necessarily sustainable. A life that I saw through bleary eyes and an immune system that started to rebel on me. After a struggle with chronic insomnia I am learning to take care of myself again.

As I get older and hopefully wiser, I am starting to say no to things that I don't  need to do in order to make room for the things that I actually want to do. I am still learning to actively create space for myself.  I want to make room in my life for creativity and the simple joys in life. Thanks to a loving and supportive husband, I am creating space. I am indulging in the luxury of time. 

I am not going to beat myself up for not doing as much I want to get done each day, for not getting to all the things I thought I'd do like drawing everyday or reading my booklist or volunteering. I am going to give myself a break that my apartment doesn't look like how I want it to and I have dirty dishes in the sink. I am going to enjoy the moments and the days and savor them. I am going to learn that it's okay to rest and find my own thoughts again. I am going to lie on the beach on a Tuesday and feel so lucky that I have this freedom.

The Big Egg Hunt

This week marked the launch of Fabregé's The Big Egg Hunt which is an ever so clever game that invited the public to hunt eggs all over New York City, in each of the five boroughs. These aren't just any eggs however, they are large sculptures that have been commissioned by over 260 artists and are beautiful, unique works of art. 

The eggs can be found using The Big Egg Hunt app on both Android and IPhone platforms where you digitally check in eggs into your basket using a QR code or Bluetooth check-in. Have you noticed any of these eggs yet? Some are indoors, while others are located outdoors. The hunt launched on April 1, 2014 and will continue through April 17, 2014 at which point all of the eggs will be gathered and displayed at the Rockerfeller Center. 

In the initial phase running until April 8th, the "egg cracker phase", eggs are to be discovered and only after 10 people discover an egg will it be added to the map. However if you aren't as much of an explorer, after April 8th you can find all of the eggs on the egg map.

While there are three prizes for the winners that include diamond and gemstone encrusted Fabregé egg pendants worth $30,000,$48,000 and $50,000, The Big Egg hunt raises public awareness of two worthy charities. Studio in a School and The Elephant Family will benefit from the eggs when the hunt is over, as the eggs will be a auctioned off and 100% of the proceeds will go to these noble causes.

Studio in a School has enriched the lives of almost 800,000 children aged 3 to 23 in New Yorks City's five boroughs since 1977. Their unique method brings professional artists into schools and community organizations to help students achieve mastery in multiple media, including painting, collage, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, 2D applied design, and media technology. Every year, 90 professional artists work with nearly 30,000 Pre-K through college students, about 90% of whom are economically disadvantaged.

Elephant Family exists to save the Asian elephant from extinction in the wild, along with tigers, orangutans and all the other animals who share their habitat. Working with local communities and partner NGOs, they currently fund 20 projects across Asia and invest where they are needed most: to protect habitat, prevent conflict and reconnect the forest homes of the endangered Asian elephant.

The Big Egg Hunt brings out the inner kid in you! I encourage you to get involved and explore the city. See more details on TheBigEggHunt.orghttp://thebigegghunt.org/.

NYC Sample Sales: January 20-27, 2014

Who: Liebeskind Berlin
What: Up to 70% off women's handbags, shoes and clothing.
When:January 22, 2014. Wed 12pm—7pm
Where: 276 Lafayette St (b/n Houston and Prince St) 212-993-7894

Who: Ernest Alexander Sample Sale
What: Up to 70%+ off on mens accesories. 100% of the line is made in the U.S.A. Snag the perfect messenger bag in waxed canvas and leather.
When: January 23-24, 2014. Thurs-Fri 9am-6pm
Where: 15 West 28th Street (b/n Broadway & 5th Ave), 8th Floor

Who: Dennis Basso Sample Sale
What: Discounts will go up to 85% off the traditional furs, fur vests, cashmere coats, raincoats, gowns, clothing. The sale will also have a variety of handbags, accessories, fur throws and pillows.
When: January 25-29, 2014. Sat-Wed 9am-6:30pm
Where: Soiffer Haskin, 317 West 33rd Street (b/n 8th & 9th Ave)

Who: TWNZ Showroom
What: Up to 90% off tops, sweaters, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets, and leather accessories, with prices starting at $5. Brands include Emerson Thorpe, Isabel Lu, and Pink Stitch.
When: January 20-23, 2014. Mon-Thurs 10am-5pm
Where: 226 W 37th St (b/n 7th and 8th Aves), 3rd floor

Who: Vivienne Tam Warehouse Sale
What: Up to 80% off retail prices on vintage samples, design collections, home goods, and more.
When: January 22-24, 2014. Wed 9am-8pm, Thu 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-6pm.
Where: 260 W 39th St (b/n 7th and 8th Ave), 11th floor

Closet Refresh: Kaori's Closet

Now that January has rolled around, I am trying to clean up my closet and start replacing some of the tired basics in my wardrobe. Afterall, retail prices this time of year are pretty much amazing. So far I am thinking of refreshing my collection of basic tees and will try my luck with Everlane, as my LnA tees are starting to become holey and worn out. While I am at it, it can't hurt update a few of my underpinnings too and start the New Year feeling pretty.

Fortunately, Kaori's Closet is having a mega lingerie sale this January! They are known for their unique selection that features a wide variety of wireless bras and hard-to-find labels from all over the world in addition to exclusive Japanese bras that are available only here.

Who: Kaori's Closet Sale
What: Snag pretty lingerie at this Japanese brand's SALE! - Buy 1 Get 1 50% off with FREE matching panties!!
When: January 2, 2014 to while supplies last. Store hours Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun noon-6pm.
Where: 71 West Houston St, New York, 212-387-7788

Sample Sale Report: Suno

Last night I stopped the Suno Sample Sale the after work crowd was quiet and respectful as they navigated the racks ans there was room to move. Racks crept their way around half the room, there were a few bins for tees and swimwear, a table for shoes by Loeffler Randall with boxes of shoes below and a couple boxes of sweater knits.

Prices were good and cheaper than previous sample sales. There was an assortment of merchandise from over the last few years, evident by the plethora of pattern and color of the fabrics from Kenya and India.

The sale topped out at $175 for outerwear, $150 for Loeffler Randall platform sandals, $125 for silk dresses, $100 for jackets and cotton dresses. Everything else was priced below.

Sizes for shoes in the Loeffler Randall platforms with wooden wedge heels ran from 6-10, however the 6 ran small and I found I could fit it on my size 5 foot. There were a just a couple pairs of sneakers in the showroom that ran for $40 a pop but despite saying size 5, felt more like a 6 or 7.

Tops are $75, skirts/pants $65, shorts, swim and scarves are $50, gold jewelry and hats $40 and finally tees for $35. Sizes ranged for most part between XS-L but I noticed more Smalls than any other size. For number sizes I noticed something as tiny as a 0.

Swimwear included predominantly one-piece bathing suits as far as I could tell in signature Suno prints. They didn't have any soft cups inserted but one of the styles had nice ruching over the bodice.

If you are a Suno fan or like lively colors that will make a statement, the sale is worth stopping by. One of my favorite pieces were these yellow silk pants that had me wishing I was just a little bit taller. Guess that is what those Loeffler Randall wedges are for.

Update: Club Monaco Sale

At the Club Monaco sale  there are just 3 days left. Yes, there are no fitting rooms and it is credit card only but this sale is one that has proved to be worth it in the past. Now that they've just reduced prices it is time to hit it up as nothing tops $75! Since you will be without fitting rooms, use your best judgement and go with a friend and make sure you know your Club Monaco size.

Past sales have yielded a high proportion of sample sizes which is a 6/Small for women and 32/Medium size for men. Make sure you go early because this sale gets wiped out!

Clothing
basic tees / tanks / polos now $8
fashion & embellished tees / tanks / polos now $15
blouses now $20
cashmere sweaters now $40
all other sweatshirts / sweaters now $20
shorts now $10
skirts now $15
pants now $20
dresses now $25
blazers now $40
outerwear now $75

Bags
non leather bags & clutches now $15
wallets / small accessories now $15
leather bags & clutches now $25

Accessories
tights / socks / pocket squares now $3
scarves / hats / gloves / belts / ties now $5
jewelry now $10

Who: Club Monaco
What: Steep discounts on men's and women's clothing and accessories, including stock and samples.
When: October 28-November 1, 2013. Mon 1pm-7pm, Tues 8am-7pm, Wed-Fri 11am—7pm.
Where: Clothingline, 261 West 36 St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave), 2nd Floor

More NYC Sample Sales to Shop

Who: Fred Perry
What: Deals on men' and women's clothing, footwear, and accessories. Polos are $40 to $60 (four or more at $30/each), sweaters are $60 to $120 (or three or more for an extra 20% off), and outerwear is $80 to $350.
When: October 16-18. Wed 10am-7pm, Thurs 10am-8:30pm, Fri 10am-5pm.
Where: 547 W. 27th St b/n 10th and 11th Ave, third floor

Who: Fenton/Fallon
What: 60-80% off bold statement jewelry. $100 credit card minimum.
When: October 17-18. Thurs-Fri 9am-7pm.
Where: 347 W 36th St (b/n 8th and 9th Ave), suite 1204

Who: Catherine Malandrino
What: 65-85% off women's ready-to-wear.
When:October 17-20. Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 12pm-7pm.
Where: Openhouse Gallery, 201 Mulberry St (b/n Spring and Kenmare St)

NYC Sample Sales: August 19-25, 2013

Who: Alexander Wang

What: Up to 70% off retail prices for men's and women's apparel, shoes, bags, and accessories.
When: August 20-24, 2013. Tues-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-6pm.
Where: 131 Greene St (b/n West Houston and Prince St)

Who: Ruia Crazy Warehouse Sale
What: Snag shoes from exclusive European designers for up to 75% off. Find brands like
Missoni, Loriblu, Baldan and many more for $100-350.
When: August 19-September 1, 2013.
Where: 65 Mercer St (b/n Spring & Broome St). 646-449-8464

Who: Sachin + Babi
What: Up to 80% off retail and stock items for women.
When: August 21-22, 2013. Wed-Thurs 9am—5pm.
Where: 225 West 39th St (b/n 7th and 8th Ave) 4th floor

Who: Charm & Chain
What: Up to 70% off retail prices on jewelry. The Alexis Bittar Cordova Necklace is $495 (from $995), the Dannijo Tullia Necklace is $447 (from $745), the Jules Smith Viva Glam Cuff is $40 (from $100), the Lulu Frost Immortality Necklace is $170 (from $285), and the Tom Binns Electric Color Earrings is $225 (from $375).
When: August 21-22, 2013. Wed-Thurs 10am—7pm.
Where: 611 Broadway (betwee/n Bleecker and Houston St), Suite 816

Who: Lee Angel
What: 70% off retail prices for accessories. $5 bins.
When: August 21-22, 2013. Wed-Thurs 11am—7pm.
Where: 524 Broadway (b/n Spring and Broome St), 6th floor

Who: Hunter Dixon by Hunter Bell
What: Womenswear from the Spring/Summer 2013 collection is priced from $50 to $75, Fall samples are $50, and older merchandise is $25.
When: August 21-22, 2013. Wed-Thurs 10am—7pm.
Where: 152 West 36th St (b/n 6th and 7th Ave), Suite 801

Who: Ted Rossi
What: Up to 75% off retail prices on cuffs, bangles, and clutch handbags.
When: August 21-23, 2013. Wed-Fri 11am—6pm.
Where: 15 East 30th St (b/n Madison and 5th Ave), suite 300

Who: Bird Warehouse Sale
What: 40-70% off retail prices on womenswear. APC color denim biker jeans are $59 (from $250), the Demylee cashmere Rory striped boatneck sweater is $79 (from $270), and an Étoile Isabel Marant star jean jacket is $119 (from $435).
When: August 23-25, 2013. Fri-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm.
Where: 316 5th Ave (b/n 2nd and 3rd St). 718-768-4940.

Who: Honey In The Rough Closing Sale
What: Up to 70% off retail prices for womenswear, and 20%-50% off retail prices for jewelry.
When: Now through Sunday, August 25, 2013. Mon-Sat 12pm-8pm, Sun 12pm-7pm.
Where: 161 Rivington St (b/n Suffolk and Clinton St), 212-228-6415.

Who: The Bridal Garden
What: Take an extra 35%-50% off already-reduced bridal gowns. Prices range from $495 to $1495. Designers include Vera Wang, Ulla Maija, Junko Yoshioka, Angel Sanchez and Lela Rose. Proceeds benefit education for disadvantaged children in NYC. By appointment only.
When: August 22-23, 2013. Daily noon-6:30pm.
Where: 54 West 21st St (b/en 5th and 6th Ave), Suite 901. 212-252-0661.

Ongoing Sales:
Who: Scoop NYC Warehouse Sale
What: Up to 85% off retail prices on menswear and womenswear. Women's brands include Rag & Bone, Helmut Lang, IRO, Alice and Olivia, Phillip Lim, Roberto Cavalli, Current Elliot, Alexander Wang, Ved, SEA, and Pierre Balmain. Men's brands include Gant by Michael Bastian, Paul Smith, Rag and Bone, Dsquared, John Varvatos, Martin Margiela and Etro.
When: August 15-September 2, 2013. Mon-Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 11am-7pm.
Where: 430 West 14th St (b/n 9th Ave and Washington St) 212-633-6535. Also online at http://www.scoopnyc.com/sale.html

Who: Dalaga
What: Up to 80% off retail prices on women's clothing and accessories. Designer brands on sale include Alexandra Grecco, Krystalrae, BB Dakota, and Ark & Co. Receive a free Dalaga-exclusive leather necklace handmade by owner Michelle Mangiliman with purchase of more than $100, August 9-11 only, or while supplies last.
When: August 9-31, 2013. Mon-Sat 12pm-8pm, Sun 12pm-7pm.
Where: 150 Franklin St (b/n Kent St and Greenpoint Ave) 718-389-4049

More NYC Sample Sales

Who: W118 by WALTER BAKER Sample Sale
What: Discounts on super versatile womenswear basics with a high-fashion twist. Make the brand's printed dresses and chiffon shirts
your go-to for effortless everyday style.
When: August 15-18, 2013. Thurs-Sat 10:30am-7pm. Sun 10:30am-5pm
Where: Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Avenue (b/n 15th & 16th St)

Who: Bespoken Sample Sale
What: Menswear for up to 75% off. Shirts $45-80, Shoes $100-150, Trousers $50, Knits $30-60, Blazers $120-175, Jackets $80-150.
When: August 15-17, 2013. Thurs-Sat 9am-7pm
Where: 50 East 57th Street, 6th Floor (b/n Madison/Park)

Who: Ligne Roset Sample Sale
What: Up to 60% off the renowned French furniture and lifestyle brand. Snag floor samples, overstock and discontinued items. Discounted items include the Hybride sofa, was $6850, now $3995. Vide-Poche, was $925, now $429. Finn dining chair, originally $630, now $299. Confluences four seat sofa, was $8575, now $5495.
When: August 16-18, 2013
Where: 250 Park Ave South, (b/n 19th & 20th St) 212-375-1036

Sample Sales NYC: August 12-18, 2013

Who: BaubleBar End of Summer Sample Sale
What: BaubleBar is cleaning out their studio with statement jewelry at a deep discount. Must RSVP at http://bbsohosale.eventbrite.com/
When: August 12-14, 2013. Mon-Wed 10am-8pm
Where: 131 Greene St (b/n Prince & Houston)

Who: ABC Carpet & Home Bronx Summer Warehouse Sale
What: Up to 75% off retail prices on furniture, rugs, lighting, linens, and accessories.
When: August 10-September 8, 2013. Mon-Sat 10am—7pm, Sun 11am-6pm.
Where: 1055 Bronx River Ave (b/n Watson Ave and Bruckner Blvd) 718-842-8772

Who: Lauren Merkin
What: Up to 70% off retail prices on handbags, clutches, and accessories. Sydney totes $225 (was $525), Mini Marlow denim and camel clutches $175 (was $325), and the Vivi Coral Shimmer Croco clutch is $125 (was $295). New small leather goods start at $15, and items in the bargain boxes start at $20.
When: August 13-15, 2013. Tues-Thurs 11am-7pm
Where: 231 W 29th St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave), suite 201, 212-239-2459

Who: Cynthia Rowley Summer Sample Sale in Montauk
What: Snag the NYC based designer's clothing at a great price. Crew Neck Sweaters were $295, now $109. Confetti Shorts were $145, now $99. Jeweled Collar Trophy Dress was $595, now $99. Double knit dresses are buy one for $99, get a second style for $49.
When: August 14-18, 2013. Wed-Sun 11am-8pm
Where: 696 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY. 631-668-8077.

Who: No. 6
What: Up to 70% off retail prices on vintage womenswear and shoes.
When: August 15-17, 2013. Thurs—Fri noon-7pm, Sat noon—5pm.
Where: 6 Centre Market Place (b/n Broome and Grand St). 212-226-5759.

Who: Scoop NYC Warehouse Sale
What: Up to 85% off retail prices on menswear and womenswear. Women's brands include Rag & Bone, Helmut Lang, IRO, Alice and Olivia, Phillip Lim, Roberto Cavalli, Current Elliot, Alexander Wang, Ved, SEA, and Pierre Balmain. Men's brands include Gant by Michael Bastian, Paul Smith, Rag and Bone, Dsquared, John Varvatos, Martin Margiela and Etro.
When: August 15-September 2, 2013. Mon-Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 11am-7pm.
Where: 430 West 14th St (b/n 9th Ave and Washington St) 212-633-6535. Also online at http://www.scoopnyc.com/sale.html

Who: Kisan Sample Sale
What: Up to 70% off on their Spring/Summer '13 collections. Women's brands: Vanessa Bruno, Tsumori Chisato, Giada Forte, Pas de Calais, Pedro Garcia, Jerome Dreyfuss and much more. For kids: Bonpoint, Bonbon, Simple Kids, Finger in the Nose and much more… Shop in store and online.
When: August 2-14, 2013. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-6pm.
Where: 125 Greene St (b/n Prince St & Houston) 212-475-2470.

Ongoing Sales:
Who: Seize Sur Vingt
What: Up to 80% off retail on menswear. Jackets now $150-$400 (was up to $2500), suits $200-$800 (was up to $3500), shirts $60-$90 (was $150-$400), sweaters $60-$160 (was $180-$380), pants are $80-$120 (was $240-$450), polo shirts $55 (was up to $130), ties are $45 (from up to $140), shoes are $120-$150 (from $340-$580). Full suits also available.
When: From August 2-15, 2013. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 12pm-6pm.
Where: 78 Greene St (b/n Spring and Broome St) 212-625-1620

Who: Dalaga
What: Up to 80% off retail prices on women's clothing and accessories. Designer brands on sale include Alexandra Grecco, Krystalrae, BB Dakota, and Ark & Co. Receive a free Dalaga-exclusive leather necklace handmade by owner Michelle Mangiliman with purchase of more than $100, August 9-11 only, or while supplies last.
When: August 9-31, 2013. Mon-Sat 12pm-8pm, Sun 12pm-7pm.
Where: 150 Franklin St (b/n Kent St and Greenpoint Ave) 718-389-4049

Upcoming Sales:
Who: The Bridal Garden
What: Take an extra 35%-50% off already-reduced bridal gowns. Prices range from $495 to $1495. Designers include Vera Wang, Ulla Maija, Junko Yoshioka, Angel Sanchez and Lela Rose. Proceeds benefit education for disadvantaged children in NYC. By appointment only.
When: August 22-23, 2013. Daily noon-6:30pm.
Where: 54 West 21st St (b/en 5th and 6th Ave), Suite 901. 212-252-0661.

NYC Sample Sales: July 29 - August 4, 2013

Who: Giulietta
What: Up to 70% off women's ready-to-wear from past collections, and up to 60% off spring 2013 inventory. RSVP to studio@giulietta-­newyork.com
When: May 30-July 31, 2013. Mon—Fri 10am—7pm.
Where: 137 Grand St (b/n Crosby and Lafayette St), 5th floor

Who: JACHS Sample Sale
What: Effortless, American clothing for everyday wear including women’s shirts, dresses, tunics, bottoms, denim vests and jackets and men’s shirts, non-denim pants, knits, polos, varsity jackets. Everything at $39!
When: July 29-August 4, 2013. Mon-Sun 10am-8pm
Where: Chelsea Market, 75 9th Ave (at 16th St)

Who: Oonagh by Nanette Lepore
What: Deep discounts on womenswear. Snag tank tops, knit dresses, printed silk shorts and linen pants priced from $15 to $50.
When: July 30-31, 2013. Tues-Wed 9am—7pm.
Where: 225 West 35th St (b/n 7th and 8th Ave), 4th Floor

Who: Jen Kao
What: Up to 70% off retail prices on women's ready-to-wear, summer knits, and accessories from the spring 2013 and resort 2013 collections.
When: July 30-August 1, 2013. Tues-Thurs 9am—7pm.
Where: 160 Varick St (b/n Charlton and Vandam St), 10th floor

Who: Coye Nokes
What: Markdowns on women's shoes from this NYC based designer. Samples start at $50.
When: July 30-August 1, 2013. Tues-Thurs 6pm—9pm.
Where: 545 8th Ave (b/n 37th and 38th St), Suite 1020. 646-213-7465

Who: Condor
What: Up to 80% clothing and accessories, including brands like Mara Hoffmann and We Are Handsome. Dresses start at $99 for Cut 25, shoes start at $55 for Vivienne Westwood.
When: July 30-Aug 1, 2013. Tues-Thurs noon-8pm.
Where: 259 Elizabeth St (b/n Houston and Prince St). 212-966-4280

Who: Wes Gordon
What: 60-85% off womenswear from Spring/Summer 2013 Fall/Winter 2012. Includes Red Crushed Satin Twill Plunge Tee & Pant $200/$300 (was $825/$1095), Ice Asymmetrical Bias Dress priced $400 (was $2250), Ormolu Print Silk Faille Seamed Keyhole Dress $425 (was $2450), Wide Leg trousers for $200 (from $825), and gowns from $700.
When: August 1-2, 2013. Thurs-Fri 10am—7pm.
Where: 64 North Moore St (b/n Hudson and Greenwich St)

Who: Anthem Wares
What: Up to 70% off retail prices for men's and women's accessories brands including Benedetta Bruzziches, Bonastre, Emm Kuo, Etudes, Iosselliani, Maria Francesca Pepe, Mawi, Robert Geller, Seth Sobek, Soulland, Steve Mono, SuperDuper, TL-180, Wanderluster, Yvonne Kone
When: July 29-August 4, 2013. Mon—Sat noon-8pm, Sun noon-7pm.
Where: 175 Mott St (b/n Kenmare and Broome St)

Bauble Bar Pop-Up Shop in Soho

Have you been to Bauble Bar's pop-up shop in Soho yet? Before wedding madness took over I had a chance to stop by last month to take a peep at the online e-tailer's spacious set-up on Greene Street.

Whether you're looking for that great statement necklace or just some every day essential, there's a lot to covet at at the pop-up. If you have questions about buying costume jewelry online, this is your perfect chance if you're in the NYC area to see the goods in person. The pop-up shop will be featuring the same items that are available online through August 13, 2013. 

In addition to jewelry, there are a number of fun events happening and the next one features one of our favorite crafty ladies, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY. So if you're around this Wednesday, July 17th, stop by for a chance to DIY with Jenni, sip Godiva cocktails and receive a complimentary leather pouch for attending. Just make sure you RSVP to rsvp@rmo-weatherly.com.

If you can't make the event, the pop-up is open Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm and Sundays 11am-7pm.

Sample Sale Report: Be & D

While I struck out in my attempt to make it to the Yigal Azrouel sample last night because they closed early, here is a look from the Be & D sample sale. If you are a size 36 or 39 you're in luck because it's sample size and you can pick up some uber tongue-in-cheek sneakers for just $25 a pop! If you're not a sample size, don't fret, I saw shoes ranging from a 36 all the way to a 41 although the greatest concentration of sizes was between a 36 and a 39 1/2.  There also were a few size 43 Men's sneakers if you're so inclined to pick up a pair of skeleton printed shoes for the man in your life for $25 as well. Stock sneakers are $45, Other shoes ranged from $60 to about $140.  Rainboots all appeared to be a size 8 and samples are $45 a pair. Belts are $30 and come in both small and medium size.

Sample Sale Report: Cosabella April 2013

I went to the Cosabella sample sale early afternoon today and the scene was busy but still civil. There was a modest line of a 10 or so ladies eager to get into the discount and happily exclaiming about the great prices when they saw the price list posted on the entry way while we waited to get in. Apparently quality of Cosabella is unparalleled and the underwear lasts for years, so it's what you would call investment lingerie.

Once inside the sale, while you're allowed to keep your purse and coat, if you have any large tote bags staff will politely ask you to keep it by the check out tables. Since no one is really keeping an eye on your belongings, make sure you don't bring any valuables in a large tote.

Sample Sale Report: Bettye Muller

I stopped by the Bettye Muller Sample Sale on my way home from work last Friday. The sale was just expecting a shipment of 200 more pairs of shoes and staffers were busily organizing the boxes of shoes. The designer, a native New Yorker describes her shoes as, “...like Hitchcock Blondes. Like Kim Novak and Grace Kelly, they have a distinct look that is mysterious and beautiful. Each one
tells a story.”

With the wide selection of styles, well chosen materials, there is a slight vintage feel to some and a more ecclectic look to others. All shoes are priced to sell at just $50 a pop, $100 for boots and booties - even those that include genuine fur trim.

Sample Sales NYC: Feb 11-17, 2013

Who: Kiton Sample Sale
What: Italian men’s clothing, sportswear & accessories. Sale includes suits, jackets, outerwear, pants, shirts, knitwear, ties & shoes.Up to 75% off retail. Mostly size 50. Also a selection of women’s clothing & sportswear. Credit cards only (American Express, Visa or MasterCard). All sales final. Strollers not allowed. No children under 12 will be admitted.
When: Feb 10-12, 2013. Sun-Tues 9am-6:30pm
Where: 317 West 33rd Street (Just west of 8th Ave). 718-747-1656

Who: Devi Kroell
What: 80% to 90% off retail prices for in-season samples. Must email appointment@devikroell.com to set up a time.
When: Feb 11-15, 2013. Mon-Fri. By appointment only.
Where: 55 Fifth Ave (b/n 12th and 13th St) - 17th Floor

Who: Mai Cashmere
What: Up to 90% off retail on cashmere. Prices range4 from $100 (small accessories) to $250 (scarves) to over $1000 (robes).
When: Feb 12-14, 2013. Tues-Thurs 11am-6pm
Where: 49 West 38th St. Fl.12A

Who: Fjällräven Sample Sale
What: Save up to 75% on functional all weather outerwear, sweaters, shirts, pants, and adventure gear for men, women, and children.
When: Feb 7-24, 2013. Mon-Fri 11am-7pm, Sat-Sun noon-5pm
Where: 21 Howard Street (nr Crosby St)

Sample Sale Report: Vera Wang Bridal

Last night I dropped by the Vera Wang bridal sample sale. It seemed that they had a VIP sale the night before and it was utter madness in the morning but as I shopped it was very quiet with only a few other shoppers accompanied by their loved ones as they scoured the racks looking for that perfect dress. Unlike regular sample sales there was a wide range of sizes I spotted from 4 to 14 but they were not available in every style. Some dresses I spotted one or two of while others were more plentiful at the sale. The majority of styles are A-line cupcake or cupcake with cinched waists and huge skirts with multiple layers of fabric in place to hold the shape of a dress. The dresses themselves were surprisingly heavy for most part but staffers ensured that you take no more than 3 dresses at a time to try on. The unfortunate part is when they offer to take your dresses to the fitting room they don't account for nasty ladies who might like to steal your dress, which happened to me. I spotted dresses from just $600 all the way up to $3000. There was a woman on a megaphone announcing limited time deals including an additional 20% off all dresses for the next 10 minutes or all shoes for $20 (although those satin shoes didn't appeal to anyone). Don't pay much heed to her unless you are actually all set to check out because there is nothing worse than a time pressured shopping decision made on what may be your life's most important fashion decision. The staffers were really nice helping try on dresses, tell you how much alterations you might need and where and even taking pictures for shoppers. Ultimately I didn't end up finding anything but if you plan on going, bring a friend. Better yet, bring two, one to help you look and another to guard your finds.

Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.9

Sandy: The Aftermath

Sandy is a messy one.  Clearly she didn't get the memo about picking up after herself.  Hope you all stayed safe/dry last night!  My area in Williamsburg was pretty lucky - everything stayed intact (power, gas, water) except for a brief stint with the internet last night.  Overall, definitely can't complain.  It's day 2 of being under lockdown and I had to go out to get some air - I can only watch the same news broadcasters so many times and eat so many cookies....

Sample Sale Report: Bonpoint Childrenswear

While I don't usually check out childrenswear sample sales, I just happened to be in the same building as the Bonpoint sample sale, so I thought it wouldn't hurt to pop by fo a quick look around. Adorable childrenswear in sizes 3 months to 10 year old boys and 12 year old girls could be seen throughout row on row of well organized rolling racks and perfectly folded tables of luxe cashmere onesies, sweaters and other cute clothing all marked at about 60% off retail.

Prices at the sale were not exactly intuitive by product category, you really had to look at the tags on each item and compare it to the list on the wall to know what price you were getting for each item. There was also a small selection of children's shoes in a variety of sizes. I happened to notice quite a few size 32 shoes.

Go: Meet Rachel Comey

The New York City based designer has developed someone of a cult following when it comes to well crafted shoes for both men and women. Now is your chance to meet her as you shop her newest shoe collection! She will be at Saks this Friday, October 19th from 6pm-7pm. 

What: Meet Rachel Comey! Plus, receive a complimentary Rachel Comey x Hansel from Basel sock as a gift with purchase.
When: October 19, 2012. Fri 6pm-7pm
Where: Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave (at 50th St). 212-940-2401.