Sunday, December 30, 2007

The Classic: Painted Jean Jacket

Do you long for the days of yore when many a metal head sported the infamous painted jean jacket? Well, you may be in luck. The young lads above and I had a half-drunken brainstorm that we would bring that kind of sexyback to the masses -- utilizing the unbelievable skill and talent of Nelson DeCastro, the artist of this, the Metallica "Ride the Lightning" jean jacket painted in 1985. Twenty-two+ years later and the paint is still glowing strong!

A renewed trend the kids don't even yet know that they need...or one that should remain in the decade of Reagan? You make the call...I'm taking orders (soon).

Saturday, December 29, 2007

ABC Carpet: No More "Running" Around

I have so much stuff to buy for my new-old apartment to make it the rent stabilized palace that it deserves to be. I heard that ABC Carpet was having a sale, so I headed on over the other day to find that I was mostly overwhelmed by the volume of stuff, and a little bit hesitant about the prices. Especially when I started looking at long rugs - or "runners" - for my hallway that cost $699! Yikes! So I trotted across Broadway to the ABC Carpet rugs/carpets-only store and descended to the basement where they have all kinds of discounted odds and ends of the rug variety. And still I couldn't find anything that I liked or that didn't cost hundreds of dollars.

"My man," I said to the salesman. "I am not feeling these prices." Realizing that I was not going to be a big-ticket customer, he pointed me to a small pile of runners and suggested I might find something there.

And then I did.

This perfect-I-couldn't-have-come-up-with-a-better-runner was near the top of the pile and on sale from $99 to $49!

Moral: There's always a pile of cheap rugs in the back.

Stay tuned for more never-ending tales of housewares trials and triumphs.

GSNYC

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

HOUSING WORKS THRIFT SHOPS JANUARY WAREHOUSE SALE

HOUSING WORKS THRIFT SHOPS JANUARY WAREHOUSE SALE

WHAT: Warehouse Sale – There's no better way to ring in the New Year than with a shopping spree for gently used gems. High-fashion gowns that need a little mending. Kenneth Cole pumps that have lots of mileage left. Gorgeous necklaces that just need a little untangling. Just meander the 1,000 square feet at our overstock warehouse sale, full of clothing, shoes and accessories by well-known designers and brands—you never know what you'll bring home. We provide you an endless supply of shopping bags. You fill them with as much stuff as you can carry on the 7 train. All for a good cause.

BENEFITING: Housing Works, the nation's largest grassroots AIDS service organization, dedicated to improving the lives of homeless New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS.

HOURS: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

DATE: Saturday, January 12, 2007

LOCATION: 48-49 35th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101(Take the 7 train to 33rd Street)
718.786.6160
Maps and subway directions available at http://www.housingworks.org/thrifts/

PRICE POINTS: $20 per “all you can stuff” medium (provided) shopping bag

METHOD OF PAYMENT: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Cash

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thorpe 646-621-1805 Thorpe@housingworks.org

When you donate to Housing Works Thrift Shops, you do more than offer a new life to your used furniture, clothing or artwork. You help to raise more than $10 million annually in support of homeless men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS in New York City. Call the Donations Department at 212-366-0820 for more information or visit us online at http://www.housingworks.org/thrifts/

Sunday, December 23, 2007

Les Nanas: New Year's Eve Dresses








OK, let's make no mistake about it. Black is the new and old black. It makes life much easier because there are so many matchable options in terms of shoes, bags and other accessories. And you can make a wicked dramatic statement if you so choose.
SO! What the heck are you going to wear this New Year's Eve? I have a thought: why don't you try on one of (or all of) the above pictured dresses at Les Nanas de Gramercy? They are all tres cool (to speak French) and will certainly turn heads or at least encourage curious questions from admirers of all genders. Les Nanas also carries a wide variety of jewelry, bags, scarves, belts and so on...so you really may be able to make a whole outfit as a result of one shopping excursion.
I tried on each of the above pictured garments. The black ruffly skirt and its much shorter sister are cause for celebration alone. They are not for the wallflower type, however. Put one of these things on and you better be ready to shake it into 2008.
The other dresses are all uniquely beautiful, using a semi-shiny material that in some ways imitates leather, and then in others, metallic-esque silks. Interesting, and not a trend I have necessarily seen around otherwise. Leave it to Paris (which is where all of the apparel in the store originates).
MC & HNY!

Friday, December 21, 2007

Shiny Shoes at R Bar

I went to see my friends' band at the R Bar last night, fittingly named (well, fittingly named for the purposes of this blog anyway) "Shiny Shoes." And isn't that what we'd all like our shoes to be a little bit more of? Shiny? I mean except if they are suede.

I've been to this venue before, and while it is definitely not one of my favorites, it supplied a good space for SS to rock out - and actually sound better than perhaps I have ever heard them. But that was probably because of their awesome bass player and his lightening-fast fingers. Go Jeffy GO!

Thursday, December 20, 2007

WSJ: Latest Luxury: The Store Concierge

For those of you who have more money than you know what to do with:

Latest Luxury: The Store Concierge --- Retailers Kick It Up a Notch To Coddle Affluent Clientele
By Ann Zimmerman
20 December 2007
The Wall Street Journal

Dallas -- Not long ago, Mark Krug, a concierge at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, dealt with a panicked hotel guest who had arrived at 10 p.m. in an irreparably ripped pair of pants.
The executive had an important business meeting the next morning and needed new slacks to match his suit jacket. Mr. Krug knew exactly what to do. He dialed the cell phone of the concierge at the Dallas store of luxury retailer Barneys New York. The concierge, Gary Jackson, who goes by the name Jackson, opened the locked store, scooped up some potential selections and brought them to the hotel by 11 p.m.
"It made us look good and it gave Barneys fantastic customer loyalty," say Mr. Krug. "I call what Jackson does 'making magic.'"
In the race to attract customers, luxury emporiums are doing what the best hotels have done for decades -- installing concierges. Customer service has always been the hallmark of luxury retailers. But Barneys New York (a unit of Dubai World) and Nordstrom Inc., in particular, have kicked it up a notch by stationing concierges at several of their highest-profile branches to fulfill an array of customer requests that have nothing to with shopping -- for example, obtaining seats at the best restaurants or arranging admission to the hottest clubs. In return, the stores say they gain new customers and foster deeper loyalty in their old ones. It is another way for retailers to set themselves apart in a world where even the best stores often carry similar brands.
Seattle-based Nordstrom, for instance, has concierge desks in eight of its 101 stores. They are in stores in the largest cities and serve in part as a local chamber of commerce, providing information about the city's sites, best restaurants and other areas of interest. Among other tasks, they also deliver merchandise to people's homes or hotels at no charge.
Saks Inc. has concierge service in stores in its biggest cities and tourist towns. The concierges will give customers water, take returns or help answer questions about bills and for the best customers can arrange extra-special services. A valued customer of the Manhattan Saks Fifth Avenue, for instance, uses the store's visual team to decorate her home for the holidays, according to Suzanne Johnson, general manager of the store.
The stores with concierges say the service is available to any customer, regardless of how much they spend. But clearly, the extra mile is expended on the customers who are best known to the store. Several of the concierges say not all customers know their cellphone numbers, for instance, for getting last-minute favors.
For sending them business, restaurants, hotels and clubs often comp the concierges. But the programs aren't without their risks. Mr. Jackson, the Barneys concierge in Dallas, recalls calling the VIP manager of a new private club to get a store customer on the guest list. The manager called him the next day to tell him the customer had drunk too much and started a brawl. "I made it clear to the customer I wouldn't be rebooking him in the future," he says. "Their behavior reflects on us as well."
Barneys's concierge program started about a decade ago in its store on Manhattan's Madison Avenue. Taylor Piedra, a former sales associate for Barneys, pioneered the program and now trains the others, who work in Boston, San Francisco, Dallas and its soon-to-open Las Vegas store.
Stationed right inside the entrance behind a custom-made teak and leather desk, under a sign saying Concierge Services, Mr. Piedra is sort of a ringmaster and tour guide. Like hotel concierges, he has sources that provide hard-to-nab theater tickets. And he knows exactly who to call to get his best customers into the newest, hottest restaurants.
One recent day, he gets an email from Lisa Jurick, a customer from New York's Long Island who has heard that the Waverly Inn restaurant in Manhattan's West Village only takes reservations two days in advance. Then she tells Mr. Piedra she wants reservations for two weeks hence for "five peeps." Mr. Piedra makes a note of it. "He is the love of my life," says Ms. Jurick. "When I want something, I want it now and Taylor makes it happen and with such calm."
Mr. Piedra's services are free, and Ms. Jurick says she never tips him, but does give him lavish Christmas presents. Last year, it was a Philip Stein Teslar watch, which retails for more than $1,500.
While Mr. Piedra doesn't do any direct selling, he drives sales nonetheless. His computer has bookmarked a currency converter, to help foreign customers figure out just how much money they are saving on their purchases with the dollar being so weak. "Finding out the exact savings can clinch a sale," says Mr. Piedra.
When Kevin Dyson became the general manager at the Manhattan Barneys, he asked Mr. Piedra what exactly a store concierge did. Mr. Piedra replied that he dug for answers to customer questions and didn't quit until he found them -- "like a ferret, but an elegant ferret."
During his stint, he has had to answer some far-fetched questions, once including where to find a real hippopotamus jaw. Mr. Piedra, who didn't ask why the customer needed it, found a little taxidermy store in Soho that had one.
Mr. Jackson, the Dallas Barneys concierge, plays a different role. He serves as the store host and has been essential to help building clientele at the year-old store. Barneys's previous attempt to crack the Dallas market failed in the 1990s. Jackson stocks beer, wine, champagne and the best customers' favorite liquors. He remembers every customer's name like a good bartender and is out every night finding the new chic watering hole. "Every restaurant and club in Dallas wants our customer," he says, whose background includes designing furniture and jewelry.
He has become something of a celebrity in town, invited to 50 events a month. An out-of-town customer once corralled him to squire his daughter, a local college student, and her out-of-town guests around town to the newest in nightspots.
Last week, a TV actress was shopping in the store when a man who pretended to know her threw his arms around her and kissed her. Mr. Jackson intervened. The actress was upset that the man had gotten his cologne scent on her and asked for a disposable wipe to get it off. Jackson searched all over the mall until he found one.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Adrienne Landau (fur!) sale

I know fur is bad and horrible and we should throw red paint on anyone who wears it, but I have had a recent inexplicable interest in it. So sue me.

So...from yesterday's New York magazine Best Bets Daily:

Mink jackets (now $2,000), fox-trimmed cashmere stoles (now $500 to $750), and fur scarves (now $100 to $250) are on sale at the Adrienne Landau showroom.

When: 12/18 and 12/19 (9:30–6).
Where: 519 Eighth Ave., at 36th St., 21st fl. (212-695-8362).

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Daffy's: Baby Gift

OK, so I realized that I can't really talk about what Christmas presents I am buying or the places I am buying them in, or else those who I am buying for will know what they are getting (assuming that they read my blog on the regular)! But what I will talk about, because I'm pretty sure that they don't read this blog and their newborn baby certainly does not (yet), is the fantastically cute and well-priced gift I bought in anticipation of everyone's favorite party: THE BRISS...

I should probably buy the kid a plane ticket so that he can get out of Dodge, but instead I bought him a wee winter coat (that resembles the one pictured above) by miniman at Daffy's on Madison Ave. And I had a 10% off coupon! Rejoice!

Monday, December 17, 2007

Bad Gorilla!

Yes, yes, I apologize. I have been a very bad Guerilla Shopper, especially during the biggest shopping season of the year! But I have been moving myself back into my new-old apartment and it is taking up almost all of my time. However, there shall be some good tales of new furniture and electronics shopping experiences for you to learn from...

Friday, December 14, 2007

Win a Gucci Bag

Thought y'all might like to be interactive and show your love of fashion, ability to write comedy, and interest in winning a Gucci bag...

Flypaper is having a super fun CAPTION THIS contest for their "Nothing to Wear" campaign.

Leave a comment on this post captioning the "Nothing to Wear" print ad below -- be as funny, sarcastic, or serious as you like! - and we'll award the one we love the most with a fabulous Gucci bag to strategically place over your parts. Hey, one comment for a Gucci bag priced at over $1,000.... easy enough!

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Catherine Angiel (jewelry)

OK, so advertising can work. The 1/8 page ad that Catherine Angiel took out on page 112 of the latest issue of New York magazine made me look up her Web site, and now I want a "renegade" grafitti necklace that says "Guerilla." I don't know if they can be personalized, but if anyone wants to hook me up, I'm free to discuss. :)

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Christmas Lists from Guerilla Mom & Dad

I have not yet purchased a single Xmas present. But the orders from Mother and Father Guerilla are in. See what a demanding life I lead?:

MOM
I'm thinking I could use some black leather dress gloves - the ones lined in silk not cashmere. I have the other kind but they look somewhat bulky for really dress occasions or in warmer weather. Size 7 1/2.

I might like medium blue denim jeans, no adornments, hip hugger style ok (maybe the best fit) can be straight leg and boot cut (whatever that means). Now I'm on a roll. If you have some castoffs that would fit the bill, I'd be most happy with that too.

DAD
Belt – Brown and/or black. Woven leather. Size 36. Could be expensive but price is no object.

After shave lotion or balm (not cologne). Some new expensive designer kind. Not flowery smelling.

That’s all I can think of and have room for.

Monday, December 10, 2007

Diane von Furstenberg: Sale starts today

I have been a bad Guerilla Shopper recently. My life has been otherwise occupied with less enjoyable errands and such. However, I did see this weekend that Ricky's on 27th St. and 3rd Ave. is literally on the verge of opening to the public. I also thought you might be interested in the following from last weeks' New York magazine Best Bets:

Diane von Furstenberg dresses, coats, and sportswear are 45 to 75 percent off; gowns and beaded dresses are now $300.
When: 12/10 (noon–6); 12/11 (9–6); 12/12 and 12/13 (10–7); 12/14 (9–5); 12/15 (10–3). Where: 260 Fifth Ave., nr. 28th St. (212-725-5400).

Friday, December 07, 2007

Greenpoint Artist Studios: Open to Public, Dec. 15

The artists at 649 Morgan Avenue will be hosting Open Studios on December 15th from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. Ike Designs jewelry will be open from 8-10pm, in studio B16-3 on the lower level.

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Puma Loakes Clyde: Available ANYWHERE in NYC?


Does anyone know if these bad boys are available anywhere in NYC? I think not, but thought I'd throw it out there...

From "Retro To Go:"

What do you get if you ask a sportswear firm to design footwear alongside a traditional shoe company? The Puma Loakes Clyde.
Part of the bespoke collection available from Oki-Ni, the shoe is based on the classic Clyde trainer from 1972, but re-interpreted by longstanding British footwear firm Loake. Premium grade calf leather is used for the upper, with each piece cut by hand. There's also a brogue-style toe, Clyde sole and a hand-polished finish.
And there's just 100 pairs around. If you want one, they retail for £180

Seth Godin on What People Want

Thought this blog entry from Seth Godin back in August of 2006 was relevant to the shopping experience of today...and I do think it's true -- for most people, but not for you, the devoted Guerilla Shoppers. You want more than this:
What people want
The same thing everyone else is having, but different.
A menu where the prices aren't all the same.
More attention than the person sitting next to them.
A slightly lower price than anyone else.
A new model, just moments before anyone else, but only if everyone else is really going to like it.
A seat at a sold out movie.
Access to the best customer service person in the shop, preferably the owner.
Being treated better, but not too much better.
Being noticed, but not too noticed.
Being right.

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Pillows and Woodbury Commons

I just got an email from a long-lost (well not that long, but somewhat out of touch) friend, who just became reacquainted with Guerilla Shopper: THE BLOG. She gave me a couple of good tips for today:

My friend makes some really nice pillows. If you want to have a look, go to http://www.sylvie-pillows.com/events

I went to Woodbury Outlet for midnight madness/black Friday, I thought all of this was a legend but No!!!I scored two good deals though: Longchamp leather travel bag for $320 (tax included), retail price $900/$1000 and a really nice max mara coat for $600. The worst was to come, we took the bus back at 3h20am and arrived home a 6h45am...what a ride!

Monday, December 03, 2007

Some Sales:Balanciaga & Portolano

From New York magazine's Best Bets Daily (Friday)
You can easily spend a month's rent in the Balenciaga store, but for one week cut back on the financial bloodshed and save 40 percent at the sale.
When: 12/1–12/7 (11–7).
Where: 542 W. 22nd St., nr. Tenth Ave.
(212-206-0872).

Portolano Sample Sale (yes, another one)
15 West 37th St, 11th Floor
Monday, December 3 - Friday December 21
10 a.m - 6 p.m.

Saturday, December 01, 2007

New Ricky's on 3rd Ave and 27th St.

There is a new Ricky's soon opening on the southeast corner of 27th St. and 3rd Ave. where the horrendous Jennifer Convertibles used to be. And across the street from one of the better joints in town: the Rodeo Bar.

They were still in construction mode when I walked by the other day, but it seems imminent! Make up and hair products galore for MEMEME! Oh the neighborhood with no name is going to be so happy to see me return!

Friday, November 30, 2007

Fashionably Late with Stacy London

I should really hate this show, and in theory I do because it's way too bullshitty girly retarded, but I do think that there are some very useful fashion tips to be gotten from Fashionably Late with Stacy London (Friday at 10 p.m. ET on TLC)- such as a black skirt that can be worn in 13 different ways.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Subway Fashion: Sunday

Whilst trekking back uptown on the subway on Sunday, after visiting my real apt., which is about 85% rebuilt, I noticed a high level of interesting fashion going on around me. I wondered why....and then realizing that it was the Sunday after Thanksgiving, decided that it was probably full of actual New Yorkers. I.e. the tourists had all gone home and the NYers were all just returning from whence they came. Sorry to all of those out-of-towners who are offended by my NYC fashion snobbery, but 99 out of 100 times, it's the truth. I use the Sex and the City "scrunchy episode" as an example.


Anyway, the best spotting was a trio of young, very thin Asian girls who were each wearing tight stretchy jeans, Converse low tops or leather Airwalk high tops, and many layers of tops, jackets, and/or hoodies. The most interesting thing about their get-ups was that they were each wearing (real) fur "scarves" around their necks. To me, they were the epitome of modern urban street fashion. And no I don't have a photo, which is why I do this for free.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Samples for (eco)mpassion/Lauren Moffatt Sample Sales

What: Samples for (eco)mpassion Sample Sale

Alice and Trixie, Citizens of Humanity Fourtys, Chelsea Flowers, Julie Brown, Tricia Fix.
A few examples of some Finds…
-Current Alice and Trixie silk dresses starting at $99 originally $250 to $350.
-Hundreds of chic bohemian dresses and tops from Chelsea Flowers and Fourtys.
Dresses priced at $69 to $89 normally $150 to $300.
-Citizens of Humanity jeans marked way below wholesale.

When: Friday, November 30th to Sunday, December 2nd 2007 - 11am to 8pm.
Where: 201 Mulberry street between Kenmare and Spring streets.

A new sample sale event founded by the founder of Find Outlet, a chain of high quality outlet boutiques and the current founder of the new Greenfinds, your online source for a green lifestyle.

Samples for (eco)mpassion will have the same great deals and high energy and high volume designer sample sale events as Find Outlet once did but at the same time will be giving back to the environment. 5% of total sales will be donated to the environmental charity of the designer’s choice. Some of the charities are: Global Green, Charity Water, Riverkeeper, Stop Global Warming.Org, Environmental Justice Foundation and Trees for the Future.

Another sale: Lauren Moffatt Sample Sale
Tuesday, November 27 thru Thursday, November 29
10:00 am - 7:00 pm
214 West 29th St., suite 1503 between 7th and 8th Ave.

Monday, November 26, 2007

My Mundane Xmas List

The Guerilla Mama asked me for my Christmas list, so I gave her the same list I sent to my insurance company after the fire. Basically all of the things that are "no more" and must be replaced in order for me to begin living a normal life again, once I move back home:
  • Two welcome mats
  • Hallway rug
  • Kitchen rug
  • Bathroom Shelving Unit
  • Hand mirror
  • Shower curtain/liner
  • Salt & Pepper shakers
  • Microwave
  • Queen sized mattress and box spring (Simmons?)
  • Bottom sheet
  • Recliner chair
  • Two window blinds for bedroom (Wood slats?)
  • Kitchen wall clock
  • Make-up organizers
  • Kitchen garbage can
  • Kitchen recycling bin
  • Bathroom garbage can

I think much of this can be gotten from Target, which is what I shall suggest. But if anyone has any other notions of where I can get the fabulous version of any of these items, don't be shy.

I also want a flat-screen LCD TV, a new computer (also flat screen), and a new stereo receiver - so if anyone wants to donate any of these electronic products to my cause, I will be more than willing to blog about them afterwards :)

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Friday, November 23, 2007

Black Friday

Hi all - Today is Black Friday and I am NOT shopping. I told you so. But if anyone has any good stories to impart - either successes or mayhem, don't be shy! Send them along (schoolied@gmail.com) and perhaps I will publish some of them soon!

xoxo GSNYC

Thursday, November 22, 2007

A non-shopping Thanksgiving message

I got this today from my friend, and thought it was a very personal, heart-felt (and slightly humorous) wish that I wanted to share with my blogeees:

Yesterday my son asked me what I was thankful for...and I said the usual: family, and that we are all healthy, that we have a roof over our heads and that we don't go hungry...then I said my friends..and he asked why..I told him that they are a very important part of your life and that you need to be thankful for them...they are there to lift you up and make you laugh and to accept you for who you are, not what you have...so with that I realized that I probably don't say it often enough and that I really am thankful for each and everyone one of you...I am thankful that we have the kind of friendships that don't require any work...and that it's known that at anytime I can call anyone of you just to vent, or laugh, or cry or just to simply tell you something stupid that I did that day. So in the spirit of Thanksgiving...this is my official THANK YOU...for being the kind of friends that a person is truly lucky to have in their lives...I love you all....and yes I am PMSing a little bit : ) Hope you have a great holiday!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Black Friday: Club Monaco

I would normally tell everyone, "don't believe the hype" surrounding Black Friday shopping. It's a nightmare and you'll get as good as - if not better - deals if you wait until the last few days leading up to Christmas (never mind those post-Christmas sales!).

However, leave it to the marketing wizards at Club Monaco to pique my interest in possibly venturing outdoors on Friday, November 23.

Monday, November 19, 2007

WSJ: With a spate of new hotels, Brooklyn bets on tourism

Sorry Brooklyn, the gentrification is in full swing and appears that there's no stopping the freight train now (see y'all in Staten Island??):

Travel
WEEKEND JOURNAL
And Maybe a Side Trip to Manhattan? --- With a spate of new hotels, Brooklyn bets on tourism
By Candace Jackson
17 November 2007
The Wall Street Journal

Brooklyn, N.Y. -- At Hotel Le Bleu, rooms have 42-inch plasma-screen TVs with Bose speakers and showers with views of the Statue of Liberty. But the hotel is in an unlikely spot: sandwiched between a taxicab depot and a Pep Boys auto shop, in a former plumbing-supply building in the gritty Brooklyn neighborhood of Gowanus.
In recent years, New York's borough of Brooklyn has been luring top chefs, celebrity residents and high-end retailers away from Manhattan. Now, with a spate of new hotel openings, it's trying to take the tourists, too.
Not far from Hotel Le Bleu, the 93-room Smith Hotel is scheduled to open early next year, complete with cork floors (said to be eco-friendly) and a yoga studio. Starwood has plans to open a hotel under its aloft brand in the artsy neighborhood of Dumbo by 2009; next door will be a Sheraton. And downtown, the Brooklyn Marriott recently added 280 rooms, nearly doubling its size.
It helps that Manhattan hotels have only gotten more crowded -- running at almost 90% capacity last year, according to industry researcher PKF Consulting -- and expensive, at an average nightly rate of nearly $280.
Visiting Brooklyn right now is a chance to watch a place very much in transition. Gowanus, for example, is an industrial area sandwiched between posh Park Slope and trendy Carroll Gardens. The neighborhood is still home to blocks of abandoned old textile factories, vast truck parking lots and areas that most locals avoid after dark. The Gowanus Canal, for which the neighborhood is named, breaks up the grim landscape, but its surface is still slick and shiny with oil.
In the past few months, several high-rise condos have cropped up here. A Whole Foods Market is coming. Artists have begun renting studio space in old factories neaby. The Annual Gowanus Artists Studio Tour, which happens in October, started 11 years ago with just 15 artist lofts as stops -- this year, there were 140.
For travelers who've never crossed the Hudson River or been further east than Manhattan's South Street Seaport, a weekend in Brooklyn might seem like an odd vacation. But it's now possible to do just that. Below, a three-day itinerary.

FRIDAY
CHECK INTO Hotel Le Bleu. Don't be deterred by the gritty surroundings -- it's pretty calm inside and centrally located.
START YOUR DAY by wandering the shops of Fifth Avenue -- the one locals like to call New York's "other" Fifth Avenue, albeit without the Bergdorf's and Bendel's. Once considered scary to walk at night, the street, roughly between Flatbush Avenue to the north and 12th Street to the south, is now lined with high-end restaurants, day spas and boutiques.
Brooklyn Mercantile, opened last summer by Tamara Lee, an independent film producer and longtime resident, sells quirky items for the home like vintage spools that could double as candlestick holders and handmade silhouette cut-outs in glass frames. Some of the best shops include Eidolon for shoes and jewelry, Area Kids for hip infant and children's clothing and Cog & Pearl for unusual gifts like iPod cases made out of old vinyl records.
FOR LUNCH, grab a lobster roll and fresh oysters at Brooklyn Fish Camp, an outpost of the Manhattan restaurant Mary's Fish Camp.
IN THE AFTERNOON, take a walking tour of the neighborhood with Norman Oder, who runs the tour company New York Like a Native. Mr. Oder has an encyclopedic knowledge of the borough and can point out lesser-known sights like the corner in Park Slope where a plane crashed in 1960, killing 135 people, and the empty field in Gowanus that's destined to be a Whole Foods Market (nylikeanative.com).
In warm-weather months, more adventurous types can hop on a canoe and take a "discovery tour" of the Gowanus Canal with the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club, a volunteer organization working to revitalize the area (gowanuscanal.org).
SINCE MANY of the most popular spots for dinner are small, they tend to fill up quickly, so make reservations. One of the newest, Palo Santo, serves Caribbean and Latin food with an extensive wine list from South America. (The chef-owner lives upstairs.) Or head to a restaurant called Two Toms, a holdover from the days when Gowanus was primarily a neighborhood of Italian immigrants. It's been serving juicy pork chops, lasagna and antipasto in a no-frills wood-paneled dining room since 1948.
FOR A DRINK after dinner, go to Union Hall, a cavernous bar with fireplaces and indoor bocce courts.

SATURDAY
TAKE A SHORT cab ride (or a 30-minute walk) to Tom's Restaurant in Prospect Heights (no relation to Two Toms). Don't worry if there's a line -- it moves quickly and the waiters will bring you cookies and orange slices as you wait. The place feels like a relic from the 1930s, with an old-fashioned soda fountain vibe.
WALK A FEW BLOCKS southeast to the Brooklyn Museum, one of the borough's biggest cultural institutions. Through mid-January, a watercolor exhibit includes works by Winslow Homer and Edward Hopper.
SATURDAY MORNINGS, a farmer's market that rivals Manhattan's biggest one sets up a few blocks from the museum on Grand Army Plaza. Warm up with a cup of hot apple cider and take a walk through Prospect Park, Brooklyn's answer to Central Park, which has two-thirds the acreage and a slightly woodsier feel.
WALK ALONG the side streets leading to Prospect Park West to check out some of the neighborhood's famous tree-lined brownstone streets, most built more than 100 years ago. Montgomery Place and Carroll Street between the park and Eighth Avenue are two especially picturesque blocks.
FOR DINNER, Franny's on Flatbush Avenue serves thin-crust pizzas out of a wood-fired oven. Most have fashionable toppings like ricotta and pork sausage supplied by nearby farms.
LATE-NIGHT, Southpaw is one of Brooklyn's hippest concert venues, and on most Saturday nights a DJ collective called the Rub spins old-school hip-hop and newer hits. (Family-friendly alternative: some Saturday afternoons, the same venue hosts "Baby Loves Disco," where many local parents bring their toddlers for a few hours of socializing.)

SUNDAY
ON SUNDAY MORNING, walk a few blocks east to Carroll Gardens, a leafy neighborhood that used to be known for Italian groceries and social clubs. In recent years it has become known for high-end restaurants and boutique shopping along Smith and Court streets from roughly Atlantic Avenue to Ninth Street.
EAT BRUNCH at Israeli restaurant Miriam in Cobble Hill on Court Street. Try the burekas, puffed pastries stuffed with olives and feta served with organic eggs.
SMITH STREET'S boutiques rival Fifth Avenue's for both quirky home goods and high-end apparel. When you hit Atlantic Avenue, make a right, and you'll find rows of antiques stores (many more affordable than those in Manhattan's Garment District) and Middle Eastern groceries selling scented oils, incense and robes.
FOR DINNER, try Saul, a Michelin-starred restaurant on Smith Street that offers seasonal dishes such as spiced crusted loin of venison with ginger pear chutney and desserts like spiced pumpkin souffle.
IN THE EVENING, head toward Fourth Avenue to Brooklyn Lyceum, a former bathhouse that's been converted into an event space with live jazz Sunday nights.
---
Along the Route
Hotel Le Bleu
370 Fourth Ave., 718-625-1500
Brooklyn Mercantile
335 Fifth Ave., 718-788-1233
Cog & Pearl
190 Fifth Ave., 718-623-8200
Eidolon
233 Fifth Ave., 718-638-8194
Area Kids
45 Fifth Ave., 718-230-7495
Brooklyn Fish Camp
162 Fifth Ave., 718-783-3264
Palo Santo
652 Union St., 718-636-6311
Two Toms Restaurant
255 Third Ave., 718-875-8689
Union Hall
702 Union St., 718-638-4400
Tom's Restaurant
782 Washington Ave., 718-636-9738
Brooklyn Museum
200 Eastern Pkwy., 718-638-5000
Franny's
295 Flatbush Ave., 718-230-0331
Southpaw
125 Fifth Ave., 718-230-0236
Miriam Restaurant
229 Court St., 718-522-2220
Saul
40 Smith St., 718-935-9844
Brooklyn Lyceum
227 Fourth Ave., 718-857-4816

Sunday, November 18, 2007

New New York Times Building

I shot this immediately after they put the sign up outside the front door of the new New York Times building this weekend in the neighborhood that refuses to improve: Port Authority (Po' Ho'...?)

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Kenneth Cole Kicks


So on my travels southward last week I encountered a younger (not by much!) male version of yours truly, the Guerilla Shopper.

I first noticed his shoes in the airport (it's the shoes money, it's gotta be the shoes) and didn't yet know that he and I were going to the same place! When I ran into him later on, I took the opportunity to admit my shoe admiration at which time I learned there was another pair that would make its debut the following day (brown/tan). Don't they look lovely against the puke-carpet that covered the entire hotel? I haven't seen a worse floor covering since I was in Reno in the 80s.

Anyway, he explained that he made his "kicks score" at an 80% off sale at Kenneth Cole store at the Chestnut Hill Mall in Mass. A man after my own wallet saving initiative, indeed!

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Calypso Cashmere Sale


Calypso Christiane Celle
Warm up this winter with cashmere
Enjoy 30% off all Women's cashmere accessories and apparel

For example:
Cable Turtleneck Dress (pictured)
Regular $ 275.00 SALE $ 192.50

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Simon Showroom Fall 07 Sample Sale: 11/14-11/16

One of the top showrooms in the city is opening its doors for its annual blowout sample sale.
Find your next cocktail dress from Parisian sensation PAUL & JOE, comfy tees from cotton wear giant C&C CALIFORNIA, and your favorite jeans from CITIZENS OF HUMANITY.

Simon Showroom Fall 07 Sample Sale
***Wholesale prices or less!
Wed Nov 14th-Fri Nov 16th 11AM-7PM
CASH ONLY
Located at Simon Showroom
95 Fifth Ave (at 17th St), 4th Fl

Actor Crafts Fine Art and Crafts Sale: Sat. Nov. 17

Benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids
Actor Crafts featuring: IKE DESIGNS JEWELRY BY DORI O'DEA (AKA Dori Eisenhauer) can be found at Actor Crafts A Fine Art and Craft Fair featuring the work of New York Theatre Professionals

• One Day Only •
Saturday, November 17th, 2007

Holy Cross School
332 West 43rd Street (between 8th and 9th Ave.)
10 am to 6 pm

Over 40 Exhibitors!

Featured items include:
Jewelry · Sculpture · Paintings · Photography ·· Dolls & Bears · Clothing & Hats · Knits & Crochets ·· Vintage & Handcrafted Furniture · Handmade Cards ·· Picture Frames · Soaps & Sachets · Rubs & Scrubs · and much, much more!
Don't miss this one-of-a-kind tradition
held only twice a year in the heart of the Theatre District!

FREE ADMISSION

Monday, November 12, 2007

BLUMARINE BLOW OUT SALE Tues, Nov 13

BLUMARINE BLOW OUT SALE
Where: Blumarine Showroom
37 West 57th (9th Fl)
12-920-1128
When: Tuesday, Nov 13th
10am-6pm
What: Bargains Starting At $60
Tops...Pants...Dresses
One Day Only

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Cole Haan, Eileen Fisher, stuff

Hi all. I am likely not going to be online much in the upcoming week so I am going to throw a few tidbits out there for you to chew on in the interim.

First, I haven't tried these on (and my hulking calves will probably prevent me from fitting into them), but as an urban walker, I am thinking that I need to work these Cole Haan/Nike technology shoes. Not cheap, but possibly well worth it if you are able to combine style and comfort.
Also, the Eileen Fisher boutique (314 E. 9th St. b/t 1st-2nd Aves.) is having its Holiday Sample Sale on Saturday, November 17, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday, November 09, 2007

Another Portolano Sample Sale: Nov. 12 - Nov. 16

And yet another Portolano Sample Sale next week:
Monday Nov. 12 - Friday Nov. 16 (10 a.m. - 6 p.m.)
15 West 37th St., 11th Floor, NYC.

Major credit cards accepted

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Roberto Cavalli at H&M Today

Roberto Cavalli's collection for H&M goes on sale there today. As reported in today's New York Times' Urban Eye:

"There are dozens of graphic pieces for men and women, including sharp military jackets, leopard gowns and spangled little dresses, priced from $20 to $350. The divo himself will make an appearance at the flagship store at Fifth Avenue and 51st Street."

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Spanx Expands

Did you guys know that Spanx doesn't only make gut-and-ass firming underwear of various lengths and sizes, but that the company also has lines of bras, socks, pantyhose and even pants and tops?

I didn't know, but I learned when I received the Spanx catalog a couple of months ago. I've not tried anything new, but the "undershorts" definitely changed my life...I won't tell you when or where, however, the secret is mine!

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Former CBGB's Club To Be Men's Clothing Store

While I love good fashion, this kind of thing ills me (and in the meantime, keep your fingers crossed for all of the big NYC Banks to continue to fall to pieces):
Former CBGB's Club To Be Men's Clothing Store
November 05, 2007
Rock and Pop
By Chris M. Walsh, N.Y.

The space of New York City's former seminal music club CBGB will be reopened as a men's clothing boutique from John Varvatos."This store is going to be totally unique, different from our other boutiques," Varvatos said. "We're going to make it a great way to look back at this remarkable history but also forward to what's happening in music today." A stage permanently integrated into the store design, along with an in-store performance series are among the unique plans intended to honor the space's history. CBGB closed in October 2006 after 33 years. The Bowery club served as the launching pad for the Ramones, Television, Blondie, Talking Heads, the Patti Smith Group and dozens of others that would become synonymous with punk rock and its many offshoots. The club's founder Hilly Kristal died in August at 75, following a battle with lung cancer.

Monday, November 05, 2007

te casan: jeweled pumps

I have not seen these shoes available at te casan in person, but I am really digging the colors. Also, the embellishments are interesting and not in the "bedazzler" camp.

Sunday, November 04, 2007

Street (un)Fair

After the gym this afternoon I strolled through a street fair on Broadway near Union Square. Oftentimes, street fairs are all alike and have the same jewelry, bedding, makeup, lemonade and New York Post subscription stands. But this one had more than its fair share of artisans, so I decided to check some of them out. I encountered one interesting stall that featured groovy cotton stretch dresses and handbags seemingly made from upholstery. I began to touch and admire one, and ran my fingers along the be-chained hand strap at which time the woman (owner? designer? salesperson?) became EXTREMELY annoyed with me and gave me a disgusted glare shaking her head and saying, "oh no...we don't do that..." Um, do what? Actually touch the MERCHANDISE that I might purchase inside the stall of a public street fair in the middle of New York City? I am still annoyed at the sheer ridiculousness of it all. Needless to say I floated on out of there without buying a thing.

And thus ends another street fair season. Stay tuned until March 2008!

Thursday, November 01, 2007

Crumbs Cupcakes: The Artie Lange


Once in a while I discover that I am no different than most other women. I love cupcakes. I love them so much. And with the cupcake bakery explosion, the competition for cupcake customers is fierce. I've been uptown, downtown, and all around the town on a quest for the best cupcakes ever. Last night, I went into my neighborhood Crumbs and learned two things:

1. My favorite cupcake is the "Cookie Dough"
2. Call me late to the party on this one, but Artie Lange from the Howard Stern Show has a cupcake named after him, i.e. the "Artie Lange Cupcake." Details include:
  • Designed and created exclusively by Artie Lange of the Howard Stern Show
  • Vanilla sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream covered in vanilla cream cheese frosting and topped with chocolate fondant icing w/white and chocolate sprinkles on the sides!
  • Retail: $3.75 per cupcake
  • Portion of the proceeds benefit LIFEbeat - dedicated to reaching America's youth with the message of HIV/AIDS prevention. LIFEbeat mobilizes the talents and resources of the music industry to raise awareness and to provide support to the AIDS community.

Shelly & Renee Big Sale: Nov. 4 - 14

Shelly & Renee's famous big fall sale starts this Sunday, Nov. 4 and runs through until Wednesday, Nov. 14. (it's closed on Saturday).

Starting at 10 a.m., head on over to 140 W. 57th St. (b/t 6th-7th Aves.), 9th Floor.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Top Shop - Coming to Soho




Hi all and Happy Halloween. First, please enjoy some great costumes I encountered at a party in Williamsburg this past weekend. Nothing like a late-night taco and PBR.

Second, excuse my continued laziness. I am sicker today than I was yesterday, so I am allowing my friends at Racked.com do the talking for me today:

Thought you might be interested in the news that British retailer Topshop, long rumored to be planning an NYC store, has decided to open in Soho at 278 Broadway. http://racked.com/archives/2007/10/31/exclusive_topshop_coming_to.php

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Prescriptives Lash Finder

OK, I admit I am being totally lazy today, but I have a wicked cold and everything seems to be going wrong at my day job, so bear with me as my creativity wanes. However, I am eyelash-challenged, so this is actually a topic of interest --

Prescriptives, the cosmetics brand that embraces all women, all skins, and all ages has created a fantastic tool to help find your PERFECT mascara. Prescriptives presents LASH FINDER, the interactive site that will help you create the look you want with the mascara that's best for you.
Four “how-to” videos featuring Prescriptives’ Director of Artistry and QVC® spokesperson, Jillian Veran will help you choose the right lash look:

  • 24-Hour Lashes (featuring Here To Stay 24-Hour Longear Mascara)Long
  • Luxe Lashes (featuring Lash Envy Volumizing Mascara) Curled, Conditioned
  • Lashes (featuring False Eyelashes Plush Mascara)
  • Beyond Long Lashes (featuring Beyond long Maximum Length Mascara)

Monday, October 29, 2007

My Hat is Dead! Long Live My Hat!

I recently learned that my two favorite hats in the world were lost amongst all of the post-fire craziness. They made it to Fabric Renewal for cleaning, and were - in theory - delivered to me with my initial "RUSH" items...but I never got them and didn't know it until last week.

So I did what any normal clothes-freak would do. I freaked. And I searched. I called everyone. I even sent emails to the stores where I bought them hoping that I could get replacements. But no dice...

Well not exactly. This weekend I visited Barbara Feinman where I purchased two hats. The pictured lid may arguably best the one that was lost in transit. Although the photo does little to depict that. I am slowly coming out of my lost-hat-depression. Rejoice!

Friday, October 26, 2007

WSJ: Fashion Bullies Attack -- In Middle School

Wow. The meanies are meaner than EVER these days. Back when I was in middle school the kids who wore lots of expensive clothes actually got MADE FUN OF for it. At the time the main culprit was Guess, which goes to show you the difference between then and now (Dolce & Gabbana for kids?!).


When I was still in elementary school, designer jeans a la Jordache and Sassoon were all the rage (yes I am tragically dating myself), so the moms in the neighborhood made a pact that NONE of us would have them. It was a noble cause, but when one girl's aunt bought her hot pink Gloria Vanderbilt's, then all bets were off and my mom bought me some Jordache as well as my own purple GV outfit. Yes, purple pants and a lavender "woolly mammoth" shirt. But she got them as discounted prices, I assure you.


Read on for why money is not a good thing in more ways than one - fashion should be about personal taste and style and not about being beaten down because you don't wear the right label...unless of course you are wearing Skechers, and then you should be beaten:


Fashion Bullies Attack -- In Middle School --- As More Designers Target Kids, Label-Consciousness Grows; The Snarky 'Nice Clothes'
By Vanessa O'Connell
25 October 2007

The Wall Street Journal

Aryana McPike, a sixth-grader from Springfield, Ill., has a closet full of designer clothes from Dolce & Gabbana, Juicy Couture, True Religion and Seven For All Mankind. But her wardrobe, carefully selected by a fashion-conscious mother, hasn't won her friends at school.
Kids in her class recently instructed her that she was wearing the wrong brands. She should wear Apple Bottoms jeans by the rapper Nelly, they told her, and designer sneakers, such as Air Force 1 by Nike. She came home complaining to her mother that "all the girls want to know if I will ever come to school without being so dressed up."
Teen and adolescent girls have long used fashion as a social weapon. In 1944, Eleanor Estes wrote "The Hundred Dresses," a book about a Polish girl who is made fun of for wearing the same shabby dress to school each day. The film "Mean Girls" in 2004 focused on fashion-conscious cliques among high-school teens. But today, guidance counselors and psychologists say, fashion bullying is reaching a new level of intensity as more designers launch collections targeted at kids.
As a result, an increasing number of school and community programs focused on girl-on-girl bullying are addressing peer pressure and the sizable role clothing plays in girls' identity. In Pennsylvania, California, Maryland and several other states, for instance, community groups and some schools have started Club or Camp Ophelia, a pair of programs developed by Penn State professor and author Cheryl Dellasega that teach girls relationship skills. A "Bully Quiz" the girls take asks, "Have you stopped being friends with someone because she wore clothes you didn't like?"
Dorothy Espelage, a professor of educational psychology at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, who has studied teenage behavior for 14 years, says she has seen an increase in "bullying related to clothes." She attributes that to the proliferation of designer brands and the display of labels in ads. In the more than 20 states where she has studied teens, she has been surprised by how kids revere those they perceive to have the best clothes. Having access to designer clothing affords some kids "the opportunity to become popular -- and that protects you and gives you social power and leverage over others," she says.
Over the past three years, numerous designers have targeted the lucrative children's and teens' markets. Little Marc, the kids' clothing label by New York designer Marc Jacobs, expanded its line this winter and dropped its price, making it more accessible to a greater number of shoppers. The French luxury label Chloe, Milan-based Missoni and Italian designer Alberta Ferretti are launching new kids' labels for spring or summer next year. Other designer kids' lines include Dolce & Gabbana, Armani and Burberry, while Michael Kors, Coach, Dooney & Bourke and Dior have been targeting teens or kids with accessories.
Retailers, too, have rushed to cash in, opening offshoots of their boutiques specifically for children. Cantaloup and Scoop, which sell designer clothing for women in New York, now have Cantaloup Kids and Scoop Kids boutiques that carry a similar selection of designers for their customers' daughters and sons.
The greater focus on fashion in teen magazines and on TV has increased girls' awareness of designer labels. "The market has become more sophisticated," says Fiona Coleman, children's trends editor for WGSN, a fashion-consulting service. Kids today follow not only what celebrities wear, but also what their children wear, she says. Brooklyn Beckham, the son of soccer star David Beckham, was photographed wearing Junior Dolce & Gabbana in magazines as a toddler, propelling the brand into the limelight. Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon, who has her own stylist, has appeared in magazines wearing Juicy Couture tracksuits.
School guidance counselor Angie Dooley sees the love of labels at Lawrence Junior High School in Fairfield, Maine, where some girls wear the same few brand-name items they own again and again. "They don't want anyone to know that's all they have," Ms. Dooley says.
In one study, more than one-third of middle-school students responded "yes" when asked whether they are bullied because of the clothes they wear. Susan M. Swearer, associate professor of school psychology at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, surveyed a total of more than 1,000 students at five Midwestern middle schools from 1999 to 2004, with about 56% of the sample female. While the prevalence of fashion bullies was greater in wealthy cities and towns, where more designer clothing is available, she found the problem is significant in poorer communities, too.
Teens and adolescents are expected to wear not just any designer brands but the "right" ones. "The better brands you wear, the more popular you are," says Becky Gilker, a 13-year-old eighth-grader from Sherwood Park in the Canadian province of Alberta. "If you don't wear those things you get criticized." In many schools, the most expensive designer goods, such as those by Chanel or Louis Vuitton, have the highest social ranking among girls. But popular teen brands such as American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch and Aeropostale are also important. Miss Gilker says Hollister and Roxy are big logos at her school.
But even the wrong color can bring put-downs, Miss Gilker notes. When she wears pink, she says, "I get the snarky 'Nice clothes!' when people walk by in the halls." Her mom, Karin Gilker, who is 44, says she has tried to explain to her daughter that she should ignore such comments and wear what she likes. She also has tried explaining that "pink looks wonderful on her -- she's a blonde -- and she looks really good in it."
Several new programs are trying to help parents, teachers and girls cope with bullying. In Maine, a nonprofit called Hardy Girls Healthy Women has developed a curriculum that has caught on at a number of junior high schools and is being adopted in after-school programs in Florida, Ohio, New York and other states. The program encourages young girls to build coalitions and gets them to look more closely at the messages they get from the media, including those about fashion and clothing.
In June, a national conference on "Relational Aggression, Mean Girls and Other Forms of Bullying" in Las Vegas drew more than 800 teachers, educators and counselors. Many of the sessions focused on the role the media plays in putting social pressure on girls regarding fashion and appearance.
Susan Bowman, vice president of Developmental Resources, a Chapin, S.C., educational consulting firm that put on the conference, told the audience that for many girls, the answer to the question "What do I wear?" seems to define who they are. In 2005, Developmental Resources began holding a series of "Mean Girls" workshops for educators around the country. The workshops, she says, explore why fashion is such an important part of a girl's identity, and how that, in turn, "creates even more social pressure on the 'have nots.'"
Some psychologists believe that fashion bullying is happening at younger and younger ages. Megan Flynn, director of children's services at Westchester Jewish Community Services, says she has recently begun using an anti-bullying program with girls in the fifth and sixth grades, as well as with older students. The program, she says, provides "a process where they can take a closer look at the messages they get" in the media.
Aryana's mom, Ava McPike, feels it is important that Aryana not be pressured to conform to the dressed-down standard at her school. She believes that generally other people favor those who "look good -- the cute kids," says Ms. McPike, who drives to Neiman Marcus in St. Louis, Mo., with her daughter to help pick out clothes. But Ms. McPike does give in every now and then. She recently bought two Ralph Lauren dresses, in pink and green, and her daughter rejected them, because, her mom suspects, they wouldn't pass muster with her classmates.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Doc's Cider at Bar Great Harry

Have you been to Bar Great Harry on Smith St. in Brooklyn? Well, if you are a beer aficionado you need to go. I am actually not. But I love cider (such a girl, I know). I have asked the fine proprietor of the Bar at least 12 times what the cider they carry is called, because it is the best dern cider I have ever had. He writes, and I quote:

"The cider you like is Doc's. It's the only one we carry. It's a bit expensive, but it is good as hell."

Doc's Draft® Hard Apple Cider
This cider is semi-dry and wonderfully effervescent with a remarkably fresh apple nose. Its crisp, fruit forward taste and a clean, refreshing finish, have won our cider countless awards and praise. (4.5% alcohol)

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Sample Sale: Chaiken, Oct. 23-26

The time for sample sales is certainly upon us. I haven't checked this one out yet, but while standing on line for the Elie Tahari sample sale yesterday a woman urged me to check out the Chaiken sale as well.

261 W. 36th St. near Seventh Ave. 2nd Fl.
They take credit cards.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Elie Tahari SAMPLE SALE: Oct. 23 - 27

Git over there now! NOW. The Elie Tahari sample sale is taking place now at 510 Fifth Ave. @ 43rd St. (entrance on south side of 43rd St.). They take credit cards!

There is a long line of mostly women waiting on the sidewalk. This is seemingly annoying at first, until you finally get to enter the sale and realize it's probably a good idea - minimizing the number of people inside makes for a much better sample sale shopping experience. However, you have to hand over everything upon entry and you will also end up waiting on line to get in the dressing room for about 10-15 minutes.

BUT IT IS WORTH IT.

I just spent $766 on pants, coat, jackets (2), top, skirt. Not a small sum, but would have cost me at least double (nay triple!) that at retail. And as a result, I would have bought nothing.

I find that Elie Tahari's sizing isn't exactly made for a guerilla like me - I need bigger tops (size 12) and smaller bottoms (size 8) than my usual - and they still tend to run a little too small on top and big on bottom. This is sort of the story of my sizing life. Bottom line is sample sales - shoot any sale - damn ANY SHOPPING - is usually best for those of you in the skinny size 6 or smaller realm. Of course you will never look as Marilyn-Jane-Pamela hot as I do. So there.

I will try to get some pics of my finds to post soon. I may even go back again later!

Monday, October 22, 2007

Closet Envy




OK, not only do I still not have my own apartment, but the apartment I am living in is about as big as my friend's sister's closet, pictured here. I almost fainted. Or moved in. I NEED THIS CLOSET. Look at the shoe racks! And the amount of clothes this woman has (many with the tags still on them)? Far more than me, the Guerilla Shopper! I think it is only fair that I am allowed to set up my own closet/clothing charity for the benefit of ME. Who else is more deserving?

Friday, October 19, 2007

Delman Shoes Sample Sale: Nov. 1-3

It's that time of year for the overcrowded, overpriced Delman sample sale. But I know lots of you are into that kind of thing, so...

Delman Sample Sale
When: Thurs., Nov. 1 - Sat., Nov. 3; 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th St., 4th Floor (between 6th - 7th Aves.)
What: Fall and Winter 2007 styles. All sizes.

Be warned: No strollers or large bags. All items must be checked before entering

Payment options: AmEx, MC, Visa & CASH. No checks.

-All Sales Final-

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Portolano Sample Sale: Oct. 22 - Oct. 26

I think a lot of you are clamoring for the latest word on the Portolano sample sale, where you can get designer gloves, knits, small leather goods, handbags, ties, cashmere coordinates, hosiery - however, in my mind, the only real reason to go is for the leather gloves.

Well, here are the 'tails:
15 W. 37th St., 11th Floor
NYC
Monday Oct. 22 - Friday, Oct. 26
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
212-719-4403 ext. 112

No refunds or exchanges. Major credit cards accepted.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Olga Kapustina Sample Sale: Oct. 18-20

I really want to keep this one all to myself, but I'm trying to spread the good karma! See all details above.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

HOUSING WORKS THRIFT SHOPS' 4th ANNUAL FASHION FOR ACTION BENEFIT


HOUSING WORKS THRIFT SHOPS ANNOUNCES FASHION FOR ACTION

WHAT: A three-day charitable event commencing with a VIP reception—hosted by honorary chair Rashida Jones and featuring exclusive preview shopping and a silent auction—followed by an incredible three-day sale of $1 million worth of brand-new merchandise from Adam + Eve, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach, Charlotte Ronson, Diesel, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Dsquared, Energie, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fendi, Hugo Boss, Issey Miyake, Jane Mayle, Juicy Couture, Libertine, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Narciso Rodriguez, Paul Smith, Theory and dozens more.

WHEN:
VIP RECEPTION- Thursday, Nov. 8, 6:30 PM to 9 PM
SHOPPING- Friday and Saturday, Nov. 9 and 10, 10 AM to 7 PM Monday, Nov. 11, Noon to 6 PM

BENEFIT INFORMATION:
Exclusive preview shopping, cocktails,hors d'oeuvres, silent auction, DJ Tickets: $100 to $1,000, 212-645-8111 x164 or http://www.fashion4action.com/

WHERE:
BENEFIT- The Rubin Museum150 West 17th Street, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues
SHOPPING- Housing Works Thrift Shops Chelsea flagship, 143 West 17th Street, 212-366-0820

BENEFITING:
Housing Works, the nation's largest grassroots AIDS service organization, dedicated to ending the twin crises of AIDS and homelessness.

PRICES:
Merchandise 70-80% off retail price

METHOD OF PAYMENT:
MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Cash

Monday, October 15, 2007

Get Your Credit Reports (for free)!

If you never have, or haven't yet this year, go get your credit reports. Just visit AnnualCreditReport and you will be guided through to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion where you can get your credit reports for free. AnnualCreditReport is a site set up by the big three credit reporting agencies in the United States to furnish free annual credit reports as required by federal law. There will be pages along the way asking you if you want to buy your credit score, or sign up for a subscription - doing so is up to you. But to get your report you don't have to pay a thing.

Why is it important to do this? Mainly to check and see if there's any misinformation about you or your credit history on record. Any negative information can impact your credit score, which can in turn impact your ability to get credit. And God forbid this ever impacts on your ability to shop for bargains!

I just got mine and am wondering what the heck a couple of credit cards listed under my name actually are...I have no idea.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

My First Consignment: Designer Resale

In a continued effort to fit all of my apparel into the smaller, temporary dwelling, I did some real sole-searching and parted with a few items that I have been hanging onto for various (strange) reasons. For the first time in my life I thought I'd give the consignment route a shot - I mean why not make some cash on the side? So I pulled out shoes, a suit, a dress, skirt, pants and a shirt and hustled them over to Designer Resale Corp. on 324 East 81st St. Cutting to the chase - the above pictured Betsey Johnson flats were the only thing they accepted. Haha... I guess this is what happens when you are so fashion-forward that the labels you are a slave to are unappreciated by the masses. So I skipped myself on over to the Spence-Chapin Thrift Shop at 1473 Third Ave. and donated the rest...

Well-Dressed Man: Video

Do you know any? I didn't think so...

Well I've recently been informed that ShopVogue.TV's "60-seconds to chic" fashion video series offers tips on how to become the Well Dressed Man. I think I may have even figured out how to download the video right here on Guerilla Shopper NYC!

What's ShopVogue.TV? You might ask...Well, they tell me it is the first-ever broadband network for fashion, beauty and culture. Viewers can make purchases as they look at more than 500 ads, shop while they watch episodes of exclusive interviews and trade secrets, and share photographs of their own great finds and fashion inspirations by posting them on the site’s FashionUShare channel.

Friday, October 12, 2007

DSW Shoe Sale: Starts Oct. 18

DSW is offering up to 50 percent off select styles starting on Thursday, October 18. And for those of you foresightful enough to be a DSW Rewards Member, you will receive 500 bonus points on every purchase, during the first four days of the sale.