Hidden Treasures at Hester Street Fair: Report From the Front

I cruised through this spot a couple of weeks ago and was completely unmoved.  But leave it to Nancy Brenner to unearth that which should be treasured:

Open Saturdays and Sundays at Hester Street off of Essex Street, lots of booths looked like discarded junk drawers tossed on a  table and priced at whim.  Which is why one potential buyer mistook the price of a collectible Kenneth Jay Lane frog from the 70s at a $1plus change at Treasures & Pleasures.  Educated consumers and converts to collectibles will discern a fetching couture Jean Patou 1940s blue clutch from the 70s, a 50s lucite Koret handbag that evokes Fontainbleau poolside with cosmo in hand.  There was a 50s bronze beaded beauty with the original Saks tag still attached. Also spotted, Judith Lieber.  Vintage handbags and jewelry mainly from 40s through 70s.

Be prepared to splurge, as most items are $50 and up, but talk to Rafael, and mention you read the Guerilla Shopper... If you are in the market for an original Mother's Day gift, this is the spot. Prices are
lower than their uptown store at 1050 2nd Avenue (near 56th St.), Gallery 20. Check out their website at tpleasures.com.

Saks Fashion Fix

Nancy Brenner pontificates...

The Fix is who got the 36 items that were limited to e-mail subscribers.  Great buys, but gone faster than you can say Rue La La - one Alexander McQueen Eiffel Tower Lace Top [MSRP $225.00 - Event Price $67.50] sold out within minutes, as did anything else lustworthy.  For those looking for cheap pick-me up mid-Winter blue accessories - see Kenneth Jay Lane earrings for $12. Shipping will probably cost as much as the earrings.

From the editor:
Visit this link to sign up for Saks emails, including access to "The Fix" and other special events and exclusives, including 10% off your first order and get entered into a Palm Springs resort getaway for two!

Dome Ring: $165

I have to hand it to The New York Times' Urban Eye for finding this one - the Dome Ring by Kenneth Jay Lane for just $165. "Faceted Swarovski crystals line domed curve of faux hematite paved ring. Inner tab adjusts to fit. Choose from green or crystal. Measures 1" wide."

I think this would make for an excellent fancy pants ring. Or even if your pants aren't that fancy, this ring will crank up your cool and/or groovy factor exponentially.