AND SO IT BEGINS...1920s Restoration / Renovation Project Take 1

Before: Bathroom

And so it begins...this little effort is why my other shopping exploits have all but evaporated.  Here are a few photos recently taken of the apartment I am now officially allowed to rebuild, and make better than before.  Like the Six Million Dollar Man.  The goal is to save as much as possible...and do as little as possible...to bring this gem into the 21st Century, while maintaining its 1920's glow.  Interesting things such as NO ELECTRICAL OUTLETS IN THE BATHROOM make this a logistical challenge, but a quaint one at that.  Right now we are still in the waiting to exhale stage, but once we get our plans finalized and approved, the real work shall begin.  And so it goes.  

BEFORE: Bedroom, when still on market.

BEFORE: Front hall closet

BEFORE: Bathroom floor, after I cleaned it yesteray.  I think I'm going to try to save it!

BEFORE: Kitchen.  Scary stove - out.  Quaint cabinets, but they don't close so they got to go...

BEFORE: French door (love) heading into kitchen

BEFORE: Giant gas meter.  Giant refrigerator.  And look, another front door!

BEFORE: ...and...the Kitchen Sink.  Love.  Am restoring, keeping, and doing a jig around.

BEFORE: Living room windows. 

Tues., Dec. 13: Filnoir Hosiery (from Italy) Trunkshow in Soho

Hi all - I can personally attest to this one, seeing how I own a pair of black textured Filnoir tights! 

I have been told that this trunk show will offer Panettone, Spumante, models, and of course the collection itself to be admired, experienced, tested, and purchased (+free sample w/purchases!). 

Check it out next Tuesday night.

Lord & Taylor - A Christmas Miracle, Home-style

I'm not sure how this got by me, but the Lord & Taylor in NYC has a relatively new "home" department on the 9th floor that is DIVINE.  It features just a few select designers like Calvin Klein, Jonathan Adler, and Ralph Lauren and I LOVE IT.  It's not overdone.  It's not overstocked.  It's tasteful.  It has bedding, furniture, housewares.  And most of all, there are some MAJOR sales going on right now.  Like they almost owed me money at the register.  It's on the same floor as the Christmas decor, which makes the whole thing a nice mix. 

Sample Sale, Dec 8&9: Jane Post Coats & Rainwear

I love coats, and this looked good, but I will admit I don't own this brand...

Zara’s Black Friday plans

From 6am to 8am this Friday the 25^th, the Zara store on 34^th St (39 West 34^th St between 5^th and 6^th Ave.)will offer free coffee and tea to shoppers. Additionally, all Zara locations will have selected items on sale for up to 50% off.

FREE TEA AND COFFEE??!  STOP THE PRESSES!!

Alessi Black Friday Sale

About Alessi

With a vast product line that includes everything from an iconic, whistling teakettle to a designer flyswatter, the Alessi company was founded in 1921 by Giovanni Alessi. The company offers products geared towards the mainstream – serving trays and everyday cutlery among them – as well as celebrated cult objects.
For more information, please visit http://www.alessi.com/

Nov. 16-19: Housing Works Fashion for Action

Brooks Brothers wool jacket
   Retail: $1900
Fashion for Action price: $800

Fashion for Action 2011 Opening Night Reception
Date: Wednesday, November 16 2011
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm; VIPs arrive at 5:30 pm for preview shopping
Place: The Altman Building 135 West 18th Street, (between 6th and 7th avenues)
Price: Tickets start at $150.  See all ticket prices.

Fashion for Action 2011 Three-Day Designer Sale
Date: November 17-19 2011
Time: 11 am to 7 pm
Place: The Altman Building 135 West 18th Street, (between 6th and 7th avenues)
Price: Sale is FREE and open to the public.
Website: fashionforaction.com

Thru Nov. 13: The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering’s Thrift Shop's Holiday Bazaar

The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering’s Thrift Shop's Holiday Bazaar is taking place Wednesday, November 9 - Sunday, November 13 on the UES in NYC. Hours for this event are Wednesday from 10:00am to 7:00 pm, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, Saturday, from 11:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Often referred to as “the Bergdorf’s of Thrift shops”, the annual Holiday Bazaar draws a big crowd in search of vintage and designer labels (Alexander McQueen, Manolo Blahnik, Missoni, Gucci, etc.) at discount prices.

 Memorial Sloan-Kettering Thrift Shop

1440 Third Avenue (btw 81st and 82nd streets)

212-535-1250

www.memorialthriftshop.org

I am a bad Guerilla Blogger

I know, I know.  I have been neglecting the beloved GSNYC.  However, I am enmeshed in potentially the biggest purchase of my life (think: real estate), so I:

a.  Have been busy as hell.
b.  Am not spending money

However!  I hope to have some great Guerilla Real Estate stories and pointers to relate in the near future. 

Hang in there with me...gsnyc

SKULLS! by Devora Libin Jewels

Roxy II, Blue  $125

Poppy S., Rutilated Quartz & Onyx  $80

Devora Libin Jewels' publicist reached out to me regarding their latest collection.  It's rare to get pitched something this good by a PR person. And I should know, since I have been one for longer than I will admit. 

I am a huge fan of classy punk rock style.  And these pieces are the embodiment of that.  You can slip in and out of conventional society undetected, until someone looks closely, of course. 

The pictures tell the story, but just so you know, this stuff is super high-quality. And I really dig the glittering crystal pave beads and Swarovski crystal detailed skulls.  There are skull necklaces and earrings available online too, although wearing ALL skull jewelry at once might be overkill.  So check out the handcuff and pistol pieces to break up the monotony!

Occupy Wall Street: Free Suits & Haircuts to Those in Need

Hackett

For the second weekend in a row, I ventured downtown to check out the Occupy Wall Street scene at Zuccotti Park in NYC.  This time, I stumbled upon something that hit me, touched me, moved me...One of the groups populating the park had raised money to purchase men's and women's suits that they altered on the spot in the park for anyone in need. They were also giving free haircuts. I didn't know it at first, but when I ran into my friend Chris Hackett, I learned from him that the effort was organized and executed by his group, The Madagascar Institute.  He told me that they had bought the best suits from thrift stores in Brooklyn and Staten Island and were able to alter and give away 100 men's suits before 1 p.m.  Amazing.  The ultimate in Guerilla Shopping. Power!!

Devora Libin Jewels: Sale 15% Off thru 10/16/11

http://devoralibinjewels.com/

CHANGE OF SEASON: TAKE AN ADDITIONAL 25% OFF

Starting...NOW:

Everything in store is an additional 25% off

Owens wedges go down to $370
The sale will last for 2 weeks
Rick Owens, Gareth Pugh, Maria Zureta, Margiela, and MORE!!

Change of Season, a boutique outlet
341 East 9th St. NYC

Oct 4&5: Luca Luca Sample Sale Sneak Peek

Start your engines!  Knits ($75 dollar items, and a selection of XL) in current colors like cobalt; shoes for $40; belts that could inject life into a previous season wardrobe on deep discount at the Luca Luca sample sale starting tomorrow at 9:00 am.  If you weren't at Fashion Week, you missed one of the prettiest collections.  Dress like an A-lister with one-of-a-kind leather and suede samples, or for the ticklish -- or those who like to tickle -- find a feathered piece. 
19 West 36th Street Tuesday and Wednesday.

/nanSEE brenner

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FAVORITE LEATHER COAT, JACKET OR HANDBAG

All: I just received the following press release from the Professional Leather Cleaners Association, and thought it might be useful regarding the care of your leather jackets, handbags, teddies or masks (see pic.):

Leather is one of the hottest fashion trends this Fall and consumers will have many questions about caring, cleaning, and maintaining their leather garments and accessories. The Professional Leather Cleaners Association, a not for profit trade group, provides consumers with this information and much more on their website, http://www.professionalleathercleaners.org/.
..................
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FAVORITE LEATHER COAT, JACKET OR HANDBAG

The Professional Leather Cleaners Association is here to help consumers make their valuable leathers and shearlings last a very long time

NEW YORK, NY, September 28, 2011 − Leather is one of the hottest fashion trends this Fall and the Professional Leather Cleaners Association wants to make sure your valuable leather garments and accessories look their best and last a very long time!

Top ten care tips for your leather garments, shearling garments and accessories.

Leather ages gracefully and can last a lifetime with the proper care right from the start;

Always hang leather garments on wide or padded hangers to maintain their shape. Use shoetrees in footwear and stuff empty handbags with tissue to help retain their shape.

Never store leather goods in plastic or other non-breathable covers. This will cause leather to become dry.

Allow wet or damp leather to air-dry naturally away from any direct heat source. Leather can be treated with a conditioner to restore flexibility while suede can be brushed with a terry towel to restore its look.

In winter, promptly remove salt deposits from garments and footwear by sponging with water; follow with the above treatment for wet or damp leather.

Avoid very humid and dry environments as well as direct sunlight.

Do not use waxes, silicone products or other leather preparations that will impair a garment’s ability to breathe.

Wrinkles should hang out. If ironing is desired, set iron on rayon setting, use heavy brown wrapping paper as a pressing cloth on right side of the garment and a quick hand to prevent overheating and shine.

Avoid spraying perfumes or hair sprays while wearing your garment and do not apply pins, adhesive badges or tape. Wearing a scarf at the neckline will help keep hair and body oil away from the collar.

Hems may be fixed with a tiny amount of rubber cement. For best results, see a leather care professional.

All products formulated for at-home use should be tested on an inconspicuous part of the garment.

Thrift Store on Tiemann Place

Right there on the south side of the street, a bit west of Broadway.  I didn't go in, but LOOK!  A $5 bin!

Hot Nautica Models from Fashion's Night Out

Sorry it took me to long to post these shots courtesy of Nancy Brenner...but the wait was worth it, see?

Tory Burch Greeted Revelers at Fashion's Night Out

The MePa district was mobbed with freebie hunting fashionistas following fellow goodie bag holders. Lucky Loubutin boutique fans scored free Frederic Fekkai updos or Lady Gaga like lashes. Tory Burch was game for greeting guests at her boutique. Were budgets blown in the carnival-like atmosphere in the Meat Packing District while the stock market was gyrating?

/nancy brenner

Giant Missoni Texting Chick on Mad Ave Last Night

A big huge giant lady, who wasn't even a model, was seen texting outside the Missoni store on Madison Avenue during last night's "Fashion's Night Out."

I ran into Andre Leon Talley, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana -- the people themselves -- as I walked back downtown along Madison.  I felt like I had crashed the set of the Devil Wears Prada 2.  Funny stuff.

Pre NYFW Frenzy at Showroom Seven Sample Sale

This sample sale is usually my go-to for special event costume jewelry.  Several clothing lines they rep will rule at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week including Odd Molly.  Seek out this sale for the scene alone -- pre-runway is in the air with models in for fittings, consider it a backstage pass to pre-Fashion Week prep usually reserved for insiders.  Killer cocktail dress or red feather breast plate.  anyone?

Showroom Seven
263 Seventh Avenue, 3rd floor

/nancy brenner

Kate Spade 75% Off Sale Ends Tomorrow (Sept. 1)

LEATHAAAA at ANNAAAA

A first at Anna!  Leather skirts - knee length ($375) and mini (pictured, $345).  Great, high-qual leather in a straightforward, classic shape, allowing you to be cool when it gets cool.

Chelsea's LINGO Charges Me Up as We Head into Fall...

Oh joy.  Work clothes.  But more after-work clothes.  I spend untold hours with Shin in her store, Lingo, trying on this, that and the other.  And I bought this and that, and am leaving the other until the Fall.

And a lot of it was on sale! 

Check out the shirt, the top, the skirt, the other skirt, and the two pairs of stretch denimish cotton leggings (not pictured).  They were the biggest surprise, because not only do they fit, but they don't make me look 80s hair metal at all.  Oh, and there's no annoying front zipper/button to get in the way of a sleek silhouette.

Aug 18-28: Summer and Sample Sale at Jill Anderson‏

Is it Live or is it...Pany Silk Flowers?

See these magnificent flowers?  SEE THEM?!  Well they are NOT REAL.  And they look just as real in person.  Unreal.

I have nothing left to say on the subject except that you can see for yourself at Pany Silk Flowers at 146 W. 28th St., NYC (between 6th - 7th Aves.).  212-645-9526 - Closed Sundays.

Banana Republic Mad Men Collection - Casting Call Contest

For all those fans of Mad Men, Banana Republic is offering a chance to win a walk-on role on the show as part of their annual “Mad Men” Casting Call contest.  Fans can submit photo entries at http://www.madmencastingcall.com/ for the chance to win a walk-on role on the award-winning program and a $1,000 Banana Republic shopping spree.

Tam fan I am - Sample sale

Downgrade Doldrums? Vivienne Tam sample sale is like buying an under-priced equity. Thirty dollar samples offer best value at fire sale prices that will yield divine dividends in term of compliments.  Tam's selections are current and vintage, both are timeless. Petite have most picks, but many larger sizes available too. If there were a Zagat rating for sample sale staff and clothing quality, Vivienne Tam would score an A.

260 West 39th Street today (Weds.) 9a-8p, Thursday 10a-7p, Friday 10a-6p

/nancy brenner

Banana Republic | MadMen Collection

PRESS RELEASE ALERT (I'm taking this pretty much from press material directly, so sue me)...

Banana Republic’s first-ever “Mad Men” inspired collection has arrived. Designed by Banana Republic Creative Director Simon Kneen in collaboration with “Mad Men” Emmy Award-winning Costume Designer Janie Bryant, this collection offers a modern take on the best of 1960s stylish American sportswear through the Banana Republic lens of affordable luxury and quality. The collection will be carried in Banana Republic’s North American stores and online at http://www.bananarepublic.com/ starting Thursday, August 11.

Banana Republic Facebook Fans will have exclusive access to shop the collection first, before it hits stores and online. An early access Facebook boutique goes live on the Banana Republic Facebook Fan page (www.Facebook.com/BananaRepublic) on Wednesday, August 10th, allowing fans to beat the crowds and shop the collection first.

Banana Republic MadMen Collection

Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty Exhibit at the Met: This is the Last Weekend!

I went and waited in very long lines. All in, it was a 3-hour endeavor.  But it was oh so worth it.  Curated brilliantly, and well...the work speaks for itself.  I was fighting back tears for the first 25 minutes.  Took my breath away.

Crowded as all hell, but I'm glad I went - you will be too.  CLOSING SUNDAY (Aug. 7) NIGHT!  RUN!

Coviello Sale: 70 Orchard Street

Items start at $50 at this in-store sale, with a relatively small selection. Some are stained and hark back to previous seasons.  If you're in the area anyway, it's worth a peek, less so if your closet is already packed.  True finds are the plumage headbands at $56, which isn't even a markdown.

/nancy brenner

July 28: CHANGE OF SEASON HOSTS AMERICO 1919 TRUNK SHOW

Change of Season, a boutique outlet
341 East 9th St. NYC

Proenza Packed sample sale line

If you are not already at 495 Broadway, it's unlikely it will be worthy of your Metrocard swipe or cab fare.  Friends and family who had a head start on Monday are back for more and shoppers were stocking up on dresses in the $400-$500 range, and bags were going, going.... and they were checking the list at the door, so no sneaking or peeking. There is always the Bloomingdale's across the street for the 100 or so fans on the queue to get in. 

/nancy brenner

Ralph's Ice Cream & Italian Ices on E. 24th St.

I'm not entirely sure why this place isn't the most mobbed spot in town, but for now I am happy that it's not.  Located out a window right across from Baruch, Ralph's offers tons of flavors of ices, as well as ice cream, smoothies, something called an "iceberg," and sundaes (how about a toasted marshmallow crunch?). 

I had a medium passion fruit water ice (as opposed to a 'cream ice,' e.g. cannoli or banana), and it was super awesomely delicious and didn't cost both arms and a leg (it was $3.50). 

I just dig how this place is set up, what they offer, and the fact that it seems to be still flying under the radar.  The only issue I have is that they sometimes use Styrofoam cups. 

Follow @ralphsicesnyc on Twitter.

Shooting for suede? Leather lovers lap up samples

If you can perish thoughts of humidity, and imagine a sweat-free future, swing over to In Suede for suede samples ($25-35) or perhaps a leather trench for fall or white lambskin leather jacket for air-conditioned environs. Today through the 29th. 10a-6p.

The Botkier store is running yet another bags-in-bin sample sale, this time with more hot house hues. Beware scratches on bags, particularly brights - priced particularly well as compared to their online offerings.

/nancy brenner

Jul 30-31: Butter by Nadia's Sample Sale Spectacular

Sample Sale at House Of Butter July 30-31 in Bkly'n
CASH MONEY ONLY
...it's like butter it's like butter baby

http://www.butterbynadia.com/contact.html

Culture Object - New York Spaces - June 2011 - New York, NY

Culture Object - New York Spaces - June 2011 - New York, NY

Norma Kamali's "Bill" Swimsuit Giveaway

The Bill swimsuit, with style influenced by classic films of the 1930s and 40s, debuted in 1976 and remains true to its design today—"a classic American movie star style" with a sweetheart halter neckline, feminine skirted silhouette and flattering ruching and seams. Last summer, Norma Kamali introduced a $98 version of the Bill, which is now available in a range of colors exclusively through her flagship store in New York and online.

Throughout the month of July, to celebrate the one year anniversary of the $98 Bill style, Norma Kamali will be giving away four of the iconic swimsuits on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Foursquare:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/normakamali
Twitter: http://twitter.com/normakamali
Tumblr: http://normakamali.tumblr.com/
Foursquare: https://foursquare.com/venue/993472

Summer Sales Start Today at My 2 Favorite Stores

Summer Markdowns have begun:
LINGO
257 W. 19TH STREET
212-929-4676
TUES-SAT 1-8 PM
SUNDAY 1-7 PM
CLOSED MONDAYS
Say hi to Shin, she owns the joint!

30% off (today thru Sun.):
Anna
150 E. 3rd St. b/t Aves. A&B
212.358.0195
Open, like, all the time.  Except in the morning.  GOD NOT IN THE MORNING!

Congrats Derek Jeter!

New Mantra: SHOP DURING THE WEEK!

OK, I can't ever shop during the week either.  But I took advantage of my staycation (sorry for using that overused term...I haven't yet come up with an alternate) and shopped like it was my job. Well, at least the one I get paid for.  The stores are empty!  The salespeople are nice(r)!  And during the summer you get to take advantage of free A/C!

So between gift cards, coupons, and sales, I was able to get almost everything I need.  I'm still looking for that perfect khaki-colored summer pencil skirt, but in the meantime was able to score the following:

-Narrow, stretch, longish black shorts at Anthropologie (see pic). Yes, I buy the only thing that is black in that entire store. And on sale for $40!  I also picked up a sweet smelling candle-in-a-tin.  And this all cost me $3.02 because I had a $50 gift card.

-Carmen MarcValvo swimsuits at Paragon Sports? And 30% off! I have tons of trouble finding bathing suits that fit and don't make me look like a corpse. But this suit fits, is comfortable, makes me look fancy, and is in a color I never thought I would ever buy (but is the perfect anti-corpser, see pic). At $101, this suit is still pricey...but when you find a suit that doesn't make you cry, you buy it.

-Quality tank-tops, 2 for $25 at Madewell...white, grey, black. They snap back into shape!  I can't stand when my tank tops stretch out in the humid summer heat and then suddenly, I'm schlumpy.  I bought two white ones, for layering purposes (see pic).

-Flats, sneakers, socks...isn't this what DSW is really for?  I had a $10 off coupon, and somehow ended up spending $90+.  But I have already worn everything that I bought, so t'was well-worth it.  I spied a pair of black suede stretch Stuart Weitzman boots with very low heel. WOW. THE ultimate find. Unfortunately, these booties, even at DSW, cost two legs, and therefore you can't ever wear them ($450, on sale from $650).  But if you're not mega-rich, just really damn rich, you might think this is well worth it.  And as of Tuesday, there several pairs - including a 9.5 and an 8.5.

-Urban Zen. I have been trying to get into this place for years, but it's closed on Sundays, which seems to be the only day I find myself in the West Village.  So, today, I got inside and learned that it's affiliated with a Donna Karan foundation and anywhere from 10%-100% of the proceeds go to worthy causes, such as to artisans from Haiti. Interesting.  So after they gave me some samples of magical eye and face lotions from Morocco, I felt obliged to buy a heart-shaped rock to benefit Haiti for $15...which actually ended up being $16.33 with sales tax, which struck me as odd, but I have put it next to my bed and decided it will bring me great good fortune.

-Who knew there was a Ted Baker in the Meatpacking district?  Probably lots of people.  But I didn't - I always go to the one in Soho. Anyway, I like the store, though nothing really fits me. But if the brand fits you, run in there because they are having a 50% off sale right now.

-And in closing I finally got to the Alexander McQueen store on 14th St., which reminded me of a museum and also reminded me of the stores of yore in Soho. I'm pretty sure the salespeople in there hated me in my over sized army pants and canvas Nikes, but it kind of makes it all the more fun, frankly. 

Those are the highlights as I rode the urban retail heatwave...burning in my heart.

Starting Sat. July 23: Housing Works' BUY THE BAG is Back!

Housing Works wants you to BUY THE BAG! You give them, $25 and they will give you a bag to fill up with clothes, accessories and everything in between from their warehouse in Long Island City. Shopping starts at 11:00 am, but if you want first dibs, join for Power Hour from 10:00-11:00 am for just an additional $5 donation per person. NOTE: Power Hour availability is limited.
Free General Admission begins at 11:00 am.

WHAT: Buy the Bag

WHEN: Saturdays, 7/23, 8/6, 8/13, 9/10, 9/17
11:00am-2:00pm

WHERE: Thrift Shops Warehouse
4849 35th St., Long Island City

BENEFITS: Housing Works provides lifesaving services, including housing and medical care, to low-income people living with HIV/AIDS. Proceeds from this sale go to those services.

New STUFF at Change of Season

Clinton at Change of Season has been away procuring more pieces for the shop in London & Italy...here's the update from the fabulous horse's mouth:


THEY SHOULD BE IN-STORE THURSDAY JULY 7th, Fed Ex willing.

RICK OWENS: JACKETS, MEN'S PANTS, DRESSES, AND AN ASSORTMENT OF OTHER FINDS.

WOMEN'S SHOES WILL ARRIVE IN A FEW WEEKS!

GARETH PUGH: TOPS, DRESSES, AND ONE STYLE OF WEDGE (LATER WITH THE OWENS SHOES)

NEW ONE-OF-A-KIND NECKLACES FROM MARIA ZURETA, LONDON

AND AN ASSORTMENT OF PIECES FROM DIOR, BALENCIAGA, SEE BY CHLOE, & COMME DES GARCONS, & the original rubber TABI BOOT from MARGIELA.

MoMA Design Store Summer Promotion

MoMA Design Store Summer Promotion


Starting Thursday, July 7, the MoMA Design Store will offer 10% off already reduced prices. Featured items include kitchenware, electronics, personal accessories, home decorative accessories and furniture

The sale will take place at the MoMA Design Store in midtown (44 West 53 Street) as well as the MoMA Design Store in Soho (81 Spring Street). A wide selection will also be available online at MoMAstore.org.

MoMA Design Store, http://www.momastore.org/

EVERY PURCHASE SUPPORTS THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

While you're waiting...

...for me to post something one of these days, you can follow me on Twitter at @GuerillaShops!

I haven't been shopping that much, really...but I did buy a great "watermelon" colored dress at ANNA (my favorite store) yesterday....

Botkier Bargain Bin: Report From the Front

Summer can be full of unexpected surprises like a quiet sample sale bin with buttery lambskin leathers primarily priced at $75 and $100 at Botkier's store at 246 Mott Street. Fans should head to Noho tomorrow at 11 am before handbag fanatics pillage the pickings.
 
/nancy brenner

Made in New York: Anni Kuan Preview

Shop and help save the Garment District by shopping at this carefully curated collection of brights and neutrals with prices starting as low as $30 for jersey. Seeking solutions for humid nights of Shakespeare in the Park, a hot hike to the subway or climate challenged cab rides? Look for light linens and silks in perfect proportions for petites.
262 W. 38th Street #703. Cash only. Today and tomorrow.
http://www.annikuan.com/

/nancy brenner