Chicago's Porte Rouge: Closing Sale, May 2-3

I came across Porte Rouge when I was in Chicago last summer and loved loved loved it. Unfortunately it is closing down. But somewhat fortunately for the good people of Chicago there is a final weekend sale, May 2-3. They have really quality, classy selections of tableware, store fixtures, and antiques, including a vintage butcher block that has been hidden in storage for three years (I can't guarantee it's still there, however). Good luck and let me know if you get anything great (and how much you got it for)!

Friends Don't Let Friends Wear...

THESE SHOES.
These shoes by Guillaume Hinfray are for sale on Ideeli today - prices start at $199. But that's not important right now. What is important is that the sight of these shoes has moved me to finally ask the question that has been swirling in my brains of late, which is...When did shoes that came right out of transvestite-hookerville become normal everyday shoe fashion? I know that these towering infernos of shoe have been kicking it up and down the runway for several months now, but ladies: that is SHOWBUSINESS (and shoebusiness). Unless you get paid for "it," my suggestion is to not buy white patent leather platform shoes with 5" heels (or more). And if you can't help yourself, please don't wear them to work. Well unless "it" is your line of work. And if it is, you can sign up for Ideeli here: http://www.ideeli.com/invite/guerillashopper.

However, so as not to throw Mr. Hinfray under the bus, I am LOVING the Isadora and Giselle flats.

Louboutin at Saks

The price and the height of these shoes hurt my feet already, but I thought it my duty to let you know that there is a plethora of Christian Louboutins at Saks. And like the Coneheads, they are also from France.

Everyone Loves Delman - Sample Sale May 6-8

DELMAN SAMPLE SALE

what: Flat Sandals, Gladiators. Metallics, Ballets and Much More! - ALL SHOES $89 to $109 up to 75% off Retail Prices

when: Wednesday, May 6th and Thursday, May 7th 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Friday, May 8th 10:00 AM - 3:00PM

where: 145 West 18th Street New York, NY 10011 (6th - 7th Avenues)

why: Shop for beautifully crafted yet innovative flat sandals, gladiators, metallics, ballets and more - All for $89 to $109!

examples: Metallic Gladiators and Sandals – originally $295, sale $89; Printed Floral Flats – originally $295, sale $89; Supple Leather Wedges– originally $350, sale $89; Brightly Colored Classic Ballet Flats – originally $195, sale $89; Snakeskin Heels– originally $365, sale $109/

Matt & Nat's New Vegan Line: samsāra

Canadian outfit Matt & Nat has just created a new line of bags - the samsāra collection.
Even though not available in the U.S. until mid-July (and in NYC?...TBA), I thought I'd let y'all know because the collection is not only produced with the environment and animal welfare in mind, but also one dollar from each bag is donated to charity - helping to affect change globally. So far more than $15,000 has been raised and will be donated to four charities working on issues such as international aid, domestic violence, animal welfare, and environmental issues.

But back to the wares. The collection includes a range of bags, wallets, clutches and belts. Prices range from $40-$140. The bags are 100% vegan so there's no tanning process, and they don't use any leather.

Other interesting note: the photos you see here were shot by famed fashion photographers Leda & St Jacques.

Macy's Can be Useful: Mattresses & Ugly Shoes

I went mattress shopping the other day at Macy's. They were offering 10% off all mattresses and free delivery if said mattress cost more than $750. So being the dutiful Guerilla, I ran downstairs, called 1-800-Mattres (yes, I remembered to leave off the last "s" for savings), and also ran into a nearby Sleepy's in an effort to get a better deal. Long story short, I ran for my life back to Macy's and bought the overpriced mat. Why? Because they weren't scary used car salesmen at Macy's. I felt that for the service and "normal" experience, I would be willing to possibly fork over an extra $100 or so. I don't get the mattress 'til May 2, so we'll see how it all works out.

BUT! While I was there, I also came across an entire ladies' shoe section devoted to "comfort." I know I am getting old and enfeebled because I actually took a look around for a good 20 minutes. I am having an internal battle and recalling the days when a doctor ordered me to get orthopaedic shoes...but I may have to give in and buy some Naturalizers or something equally as hideous (see pic, HAWT!!). Tears are already streaming down my face. :(

In other completely unrelated news...a "side bar" if you will...

Openhouse Gallery, a pop-up retail events space, is looking to host more sample sales in its venue, for those who have overstock and no place to sell it. Openhouse is a 2,500 square foot location in NoLIta, right off the 6 train at Spring Street. They also have a huge storefront window that receives foot traffic of 1,000+ people per day. For more information, check http://www.openhousegallery.org/.

MaxMara Sample Sale, April 26-29

MaxMara, Max&Co., Sportmax. 'S MaxMara, Marina Rinaldi and Weekend - Prices up to 70% off retail

when:
Sunday, April 26th 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM; Monday, April 27th 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday, April 28th 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Wednesday, April 29th 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

where:
Metropolitan Pavilion
123 West 18th Street
New York, NY 10011
(Between 6th - 7th Avenues)

why:
Elegant, timeless, ready-to-wear pieces synonymous with this venerable Italian fashion house. Look for tailored suits, the perfect LBD (little black dress), swimwear and accessories such as handbags, belts, scarves and jewelry.

examples:
MaxMara Black Double-breasted Long Raincoat - originally $1262.40, sale $379
MaxMara Sleeveless Grey Silk Top - originally $320, sale $96
MaxMara Black Linen Drawstring Pant - originally $470.40, sale $142
Weekend Black Cotton Long Pant - originally $242.40, sale $73
Max&Co. Dress - originally $175.26, sale $53.00

Ooooooo Canada! mo851 Sample Sale April 23-26

April 23-26

Thursday & Friday 10-9; Saturday 10-8; Sunday 12-8

106 Wooster Street (Spring-Prince Streets)

212.431.3069

http://www.m0851.com/

m0851 is a Canadian design house with shops in New York, Paris and throughout Canada. At their annual sample sale savings will be 50% to 70% off regular prices. High-end full grain leather accessories: weekend bags, totes, shopping bags, computer bags, travel pouches, wallets, agenda cover, belts. Full-grain calf skin outerwear: leather jackets, bomber and vests. Summer clothing: cotton voile camisoles, sun dresses, camisole knits.

Major credit cards accepted.

In honor of their downtown sample sale, they will be offering 20% discount on all regular collection in their shop at 748 Madison (64th -65th Streets).

Information about this week's sample sales ... http://www.lazarshopping.com/

Crazy Old Kodak Camera from Circa 1923

This was the other heirloom that we inspected with some level of detail. Again, it's in its original box and all pieces seem to be present. Says in the instruction booklet that it's a Kodak from 1923. The booklet is possibly more interesting than the camera itself. Don't know if it works, but anyone know what it might be worth...or know where I can go find out? Regardless, I thought it was way cool. Like from a Marilyn Manson video or something.

GS Asks: "Anyone Know What These Are?"

Mother Guerilla and I were going through some family heirlooms, of which we have about six, and came across these, in the original JL Hudson's box. Anyone know what they are? Some guesses have included shoe buckles/adornments or a shoulder/scarfy holder thingy. I know, very specific descriptions. If you know or have any ideas, please tell me! I am ready to take on the Antiques Roadshow with this stuff!