For the fashionista on a budget it is definitely possible to get the big ticket items you want without paying full price. You just need patience, persistence, and to be aware of when the sales are starting and when the extra markdowns begin!
1. Barney's Warehouse Sale Spring 2011
As usual I avoided the craziness of the first day and went on the second day to check out the merchandise and the prices. As expected, there was a good variety, but prices still as high as the normal Barney's store prices, so I left empty handed but with a good preview. I went the next week on Monday when the initial markdowns were about 25% and got lucky in the "damaged" section which was 40% off lowest price and got a great Rebecca Taylor black ruched $275 dress for $36 (and it was not actually damaged - ticket said the zipper was stuck but there was nothing wrong with it!). Knowing in the next few days the markdowns would incrementally increase, I decided to go back on Wednesday March 2nd (sale ends on the 6th but this was the last day I could go due to travel). Shoes were an additional 60% off and I could barely contain myself from making a number of purchases (close calls: $1100 Chloe black leather boots for $190 but were a little bit too small; Thakoon amazing laced leather boots for $160) and finally settled on a great pair of black suede Giuseppe Zanotti leather boots marked from $795 to $120!
Bottom line: Not as much success as my last trip when the discounts were greater closer to the last day, but a great find nonetheless.
2. Berdorf's Sale Racks
Bergdorf's sale has been ongoing now for some time. When they first started the post-Christmas shoe sale I naturally had to go and see what they were offering at their 30% discount. This was one of the few times I have actually found the EXACT shoe I was looking for on sale - I had been looking for the YSL Tribute pump (the high one) in black patent at a discount FOREVER because I refuse to pay nearly $800 for shoes. Since I had a Bergdorf store credit I ended up walking away with these amazing pumps for about $439.
I have never had much luck in the sales department for apparel at Barney's but during the first week of March I had an amazing find - Herve Leger black ombre signature bandage dress for $329!! Now I have been looking for this dress for months and even at the best online or in-store sales prices I have not been able to find any for under $500. Wading through the Herve Leger sales rack most of the dresses had been marked down to around $600-$700, but this pretty little number had no tag on it at all! Sheepishly, I brought it to a sales associate to have them find a price and after a long wait and sending the dress to the basement they came back with a price of $329. Proof it never hurts to be a pain and ask for a price :)
3. Neiman Marcus, Copley Boston, MA
I always have a lot of luck finding shoes here, and doesn't hurt to get a slight break on NYC tax prices. This time I walked away with 2 fantastic pairs of shoes. 1 pair of Tory Burch signature Revas in a ruched dark metallic silver leather with dark palladium accents marked from $275 to $110. My greatest find: a $695 pair of black leather Chanel ballerina flats with CC toe caps, unique metal toe cap underplate (wish I could upload pics since hard to describe)... for $340. These are a modern twist on the classic Chanel ballerina flats, and the bottoms already have reinforced rubber taps on front and heel unlike the normal ballerinas so I saved an extra $30 needing to get them soled by my shoe guy.
My next foray at Neimans first week of March included a trip to the jacker department. I always look for classic coats on sale at the end of the season. I found a $495 Fleurette with Loro Piana soft wool fabric pea coat for $250 including tax.
4. Sloan Kettering Memorial Thrift Store Charity sale
This was my first time at the legendary event and I decided to go in the afternoon on the first day around 2pm after the lunchtime rush. I had a couple of great finds - a $40 Alice and Olivia black chiffon going out dress, and the most amazing black leather Celine belt with a gold clasp foldover detail perfect for wearing high on the waist (not to mention the exact style belt I have been looking for months!) Oh yes, it was a steal at $65, not to mention less guilt since it is all for charity!
I am anxiously awaiting the upcoming Hermes and Dolce and Gabbana sample sales on the 23rd. Hoping I can get another belt kit like last time (getting there at 6:45am to wait in line really paid off since they only had a couple of belt metal Hs and I got one!)
Friday, March 11, 2011
A Belated Post-Fashion Week Update
It has been a while and I have neglected my blog duties...guilty as charged!
Thought I would take a minute to update with the latest and greatest from my fashion week experience.
Yet again, I was able to get tickets to the Indashio show like last season (big thank you to FashionStake.com). This seasons show was an even greater spectacle than last with more celebrities: Aubrey O'Day modelling a sequin encrusted minidress on the runway, Denise Richards, Kat Deluna, and Angelina from Jersey Shore (OK - I know she isn't a real celebrity) sitting front row. The show got off to a slow start with a number of shapeless and ridiculous dresses, but ended strong with Indashio's signature glitzy sequin encrusted minidresses and more wearable numbers. This line is not for the faint of heart, but for the fierce and fashion risk-takers. Hence the number of Lady Gaga wannabe's spotted in attendance, although disappointing there were not as many drag queens in attendence as last season since they add a certain je ne sais quois to the atmosphere.
My take: Up and coming designer with a flair for the ridiculous and statement-worthy designs. Pick and choose wisely to avoid making the wrong kind of statement!
Thought I would take a minute to update with the latest and greatest from my fashion week experience.
Yet again, I was able to get tickets to the Indashio show like last season (big thank you to FashionStake.com). This seasons show was an even greater spectacle than last with more celebrities: Aubrey O'Day modelling a sequin encrusted minidress on the runway, Denise Richards, Kat Deluna, and Angelina from Jersey Shore (OK - I know she isn't a real celebrity) sitting front row. The show got off to a slow start with a number of shapeless and ridiculous dresses, but ended strong with Indashio's signature glitzy sequin encrusted minidresses and more wearable numbers. This line is not for the faint of heart, but for the fierce and fashion risk-takers. Hence the number of Lady Gaga wannabe's spotted in attendance, although disappointing there were not as many drag queens in attendence as last season since they add a certain je ne sais quois to the atmosphere.
My take: Up and coming designer with a flair for the ridiculous and statement-worthy designs. Pick and choose wisely to avoid making the wrong kind of statement!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Barney's Warehouse Sale - The REAL Deal
Ok, so every New Yorker seems to know when its that time of year again... that's right the Barney's Warehouse sale!
Depending on your ability to withstand crowds and disorganized racks it is DEFINITELY possible to get some really great deals here if you know how to navigate properly:
1. If you are looking for the best selection but not the BEST sales prices go early on the first day. Yes you will likely wait in line, but if you were pining after something you saw on sale at the store but couldn't manage their sales prices then you may be able to find it on the first day.
2. Bring a small purse only. Any medium or large purses will need to be checked at the door and there is usually a long line to check items.
3. They have only open air dressing rooms - best to wear a long skirt, tank tops or leggings - avoid sheer underwear unless you don't mind exposing yourself.
4. For the summertime sale dress for the heat - despite their fans it gets rather hot inside
5. Go during the week. Weekends are largely bridge and tunnelers coming to shop which = poor selection and LONG lines to check out.
6. They do put out new stuff every day supposedly; if you are able to I would suggest going several times. I went the 2nd day and then a couple of times during the last week of the sale when further reductions were taken
My Steals:
Citizens of Humanity black jeggings: $50
Marc Jacobs booties: $120
Manolo Blahnik full length black leather stiletto boots: $130!!!!
Maloles gray leather orchid boots: $50
Since the sale ends tomorrow I may just try and make it out there one last time :)
Depending on your ability to withstand crowds and disorganized racks it is DEFINITELY possible to get some really great deals here if you know how to navigate properly:
1. If you are looking for the best selection but not the BEST sales prices go early on the first day. Yes you will likely wait in line, but if you were pining after something you saw on sale at the store but couldn't manage their sales prices then you may be able to find it on the first day.
2. Bring a small purse only. Any medium or large purses will need to be checked at the door and there is usually a long line to check items.
3. They have only open air dressing rooms - best to wear a long skirt, tank tops or leggings - avoid sheer underwear unless you don't mind exposing yourself.
4. For the summertime sale dress for the heat - despite their fans it gets rather hot inside
5. Go during the week. Weekends are largely bridge and tunnelers coming to shop which = poor selection and LONG lines to check out.
6. They do put out new stuff every day supposedly; if you are able to I would suggest going several times. I went the 2nd day and then a couple of times during the last week of the sale when further reductions were taken
My Steals:
Citizens of Humanity black jeggings: $50
Marc Jacobs booties: $120
Manolo Blahnik full length black leather stiletto boots: $130!!!!
Maloles gray leather orchid boots: $50
Since the sale ends tomorrow I may just try and make it out there one last time :)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Summer Vacation ends and Fashion Week Begins!
So after a long hiatus on account of school and summer work, NEWBIE in NYC is finally back to blogging!
Summertime officially ends in NYC with the coming of Spring fashion week (yes, spring shows are in the fall)
Now unless your "in the biz" ticket invites to these shows are EXTREMELY hard to come by... that being said I was able to score tickets a couple of different ways:
1. Sponsor some young designer on www.fashionstake.com - $50 for 2 tickets... I am hoping to a good show - will let you know!
2. Sorority connections - no joke my friend is a Kappa and their email chains were sending me invites to a couple of off site shows (plus the opportunity above). Too bad my sorority isn't quite as good with their emailing!!
I will update when and if my final shenanigan works to get me another ticket...
***Keep in mind that Fashion Night Out is open to the public almost everywhere***
There is a public fashion show for the first time ever where you can purchase tickets also....may be a bit expensive though!
Summertime officially ends in NYC with the coming of Spring fashion week (yes, spring shows are in the fall)
Now unless your "in the biz" ticket invites to these shows are EXTREMELY hard to come by... that being said I was able to score tickets a couple of different ways:
1. Sponsor some young designer on www.fashionstake.com - $50 for 2 tickets... I am hoping to a good show - will let you know!
2. Sorority connections - no joke my friend is a Kappa and their email chains were sending me invites to a couple of off site shows (plus the opportunity above). Too bad my sorority isn't quite as good with their emailing!!
I will update when and if my final shenanigan works to get me another ticket...
***Keep in mind that Fashion Night Out is open to the public almost everywhere***
There is a public fashion show for the first time ever where you can purchase tickets also....may be a bit expensive though!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Good Eats
Kosher:
Azuri Cafe (51st & 10th): Some of the best tasting entirely homemade kosher food I have had thus far in the city. The schwarma (while expensive at nearly $8) is delicious and tender; the falafel is crunchy and considerably cheaper (around $6). Even though these pita sandwiches do not look big, you will be full by the time you are done eating. I suggest getting each with EVERYTHING on them - I have no idea what some of the sauces and vegetable combinations are but they combine with the pita to form something out of this word. Definitely delicious enough to offset the "falafel-nazi" owner who I have yet seen to crack a smile or stop scowling.
Food Score: *****
Price Score: **
Pita Express (downtown financial district, Ann St?): Perhaps since I am spoiled by the delicious Azuri cafe, this glatt kosher eatery specializing in Mediterrean foods is overpriced and rather bland and disappointing. Their schwarma is not only expensive but the meat is dried out and chewy in a bad way and entirely lacks the special sauces and salad toppings hallmark of most of these sandwiches. The same thing applies to their Falafel - completely ordinary and boring. Their babaganoush is the only item I find palatable; I had to request it spicy and the overly creamy texture does take some getting used to.
Food Score: *
Price Score: **
Azuri Cafe (51st & 10th): Some of the best tasting entirely homemade kosher food I have had thus far in the city. The schwarma (while expensive at nearly $8) is delicious and tender; the falafel is crunchy and considerably cheaper (around $6). Even though these pita sandwiches do not look big, you will be full by the time you are done eating. I suggest getting each with EVERYTHING on them - I have no idea what some of the sauces and vegetable combinations are but they combine with the pita to form something out of this word. Definitely delicious enough to offset the "falafel-nazi" owner who I have yet seen to crack a smile or stop scowling.
Food Score: *****
Price Score: **
Pita Express (downtown financial district, Ann St?): Perhaps since I am spoiled by the delicious Azuri cafe, this glatt kosher eatery specializing in Mediterrean foods is overpriced and rather bland and disappointing. Their schwarma is not only expensive but the meat is dried out and chewy in a bad way and entirely lacks the special sauces and salad toppings hallmark of most of these sandwiches. The same thing applies to their Falafel - completely ordinary and boring. Their babaganoush is the only item I find palatable; I had to request it spicy and the overly creamy texture does take some getting used to.
Food Score: *
Price Score: **
Nights out, Continued
Been a busy last couple of weeks, just wanted to update with a few new spots I have hit up:
Rivington Hotel (Thor?): Nice atmosphere for a small hotel lounge in the heart of the Lower East Side. Gets pretty crowded and since there was only one bar with two bartenders it took forever to get drinks... plus their Diet Coke mix was off. At least they had a coat check though!
Thanksgiving Happenings: NYC nightlife was pretty subdued since a lot of the younger crowd seemed to be "home for the holidays" on Friday night.
The night started off at Abe & Arthur's a hip "steakhouse" plus; the tuna tartare tacos and garlic mussels were amazing. The beet and goat cheese salad, while delicious does not have any salad greens and is barely appetizer portioned. Try to get a booth table, since maneuvering through the middle of the restaurant is tricky enough for the slim hostess, let alone people wearing jackets coming in from the cold!
Next stop for the night was Simyone, a Meatpacking hotspot. The doormen was rather rude and standoffish since obviously his small degree of power at the door is the only thrill he gets and it has clearly gone to his head. Since we arrived around 11:30, the place was pretty empty so we got to enjoy a table seating in the back room. The atmosphere of lowlighting and x-rays on the walls was novel and rather charming; the tight clothes and miniscule skirts on the waitresses was not. The bartenders were polite and fast (possibly since it was pretty dead) and made a good stiff vodkda tonic. Will need to revisit this lounge on a different night to properly review the crowd.
Last stop for the night was The Gates, a hotel lounge. Beautiful atmosphere replete with old-school opulence in the form of numerous chandeliers, antiqued mirrors paired with modern furniture gave the lounge a really unique vibe. Downside was the one bar and two bartenders, although the service was speedier than expected. Also, sitting at a table we were surprised to find the servers bringing an ice bucket, cups, and mixers yet not asking us to move which was a bit uncomfortable, so we elected to move aside on our own. I was also told the crowd was sub-par that night, and I was pleasantly surprised by the politeness of the doorman/bouncer after the previous experience at Simyone.
Rivington Hotel (Thor?): Nice atmosphere for a small hotel lounge in the heart of the Lower East Side. Gets pretty crowded and since there was only one bar with two bartenders it took forever to get drinks... plus their Diet Coke mix was off. At least they had a coat check though!
Thanksgiving Happenings: NYC nightlife was pretty subdued since a lot of the younger crowd seemed to be "home for the holidays" on Friday night.
The night started off at Abe & Arthur's a hip "steakhouse" plus; the tuna tartare tacos and garlic mussels were amazing. The beet and goat cheese salad, while delicious does not have any salad greens and is barely appetizer portioned. Try to get a booth table, since maneuvering through the middle of the restaurant is tricky enough for the slim hostess, let alone people wearing jackets coming in from the cold!
Next stop for the night was Simyone, a Meatpacking hotspot. The doormen was rather rude and standoffish since obviously his small degree of power at the door is the only thrill he gets and it has clearly gone to his head. Since we arrived around 11:30, the place was pretty empty so we got to enjoy a table seating in the back room. The atmosphere of lowlighting and x-rays on the walls was novel and rather charming; the tight clothes and miniscule skirts on the waitresses was not. The bartenders were polite and fast (possibly since it was pretty dead) and made a good stiff vodkda tonic. Will need to revisit this lounge on a different night to properly review the crowd.
Last stop for the night was The Gates, a hotel lounge. Beautiful atmosphere replete with old-school opulence in the form of numerous chandeliers, antiqued mirrors paired with modern furniture gave the lounge a really unique vibe. Downside was the one bar and two bartenders, although the service was speedier than expected. Also, sitting at a table we were surprised to find the servers bringing an ice bucket, cups, and mixers yet not asking us to move which was a bit uncomfortable, so we elected to move aside on our own. I was also told the crowd was sub-par that night, and I was pleasantly surprised by the politeness of the doorman/bouncer after the previous experience at Simyone.
Monday, November 16, 2009
What a Weekend!
I started the weekend off early -
Thursday: Went out for drinks with a friend. First hit up Buddha in Meatpacking and it was pretty dead. Considering the location and the atmosphere was really cool, I expected a hipper crowd - but mostly older crowd and even though it was fairly empty the bouncer made us wait at the door.
We then went to Juliet - 539 W21 st. Crowd was hipper, younger and energetic, dancing and also table seating. Expect to pay typical Meatpacking drink prices; 2 cocktails for $31. Wasn't extremely crowded but pleasantly stocked with goodlooking people.
Friday: Met up with 5 girlfriends for dinner at Cafeteria on 17th and 7th. Had a dinner reservation for 10pm, but since we were running late they would only hold the reservation until 10:15. Scene was very hip and young; especially since this is open all night. Cocktails were innovative (lychee options!) and more reasonably priced than many restaurants. The truffle mac and cheese is to die for although I advise against eating the whole thing yourself. The fig salad was delicious and unique; filling yet very healthy.
We then met up with some people in Meatpacking to go out at Tenjune. Don't count on getting in unless you know someone. Luckily, since my friend knew the owner we were able to get in. Some of the best looking and well dressed people in Manhattan, although there were a few creepy old men thrown in th mix. It was EXTREMELY crowded on the dance floor and got pretty warm... however, it was totally worth the discomfort because it turns out Peppa of Salt n Peppa was celebrating her birthday there and gave an impromtu performance of "Push It". When the crowding was too much to handle we went across the street to Buddha and was suprised that yet again it was dead! More so than on Thursday, and a strange older crowd. But it was nice in that my girlfriends and I were able to sit at a table, converse and relax since the tempest at Tenjune. Getting tired, my girlfriends and I left Buddha and ran into Peppa on the street while waiting for a taxi. She was with a couple of friends and right next to us, so one of my friends ask her "Are you really from Morristown, NJ - I am from there?!" to which she replied excitedly "Yes I am!" and sweetly posed for pictures with us.
Sunday: I had a wedding to attending in Long Island. Navigating the subway for a newbie is difficult enough, but the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) was a whole new experience. Apparently the unlimited Metrocard does not apply for LIRR - and once on the train they accept cash only (which obviously I never have and got a ridiculous look from the conductor when I asked if they would take my credit card). I was told I would have to fill out some paperwork, but the guy never came back with it so I ended up getting a free ride!
After the wedding my friend from school who was an entertainment writer for the LA Times (he recently struck out on his own blog) had invited me to a film screening and dinner for '500 Days of Summer'. I had already seen the movie so I just met up with him at Casa Lever on Park Avenue for the dinner. The main course of Risotto left my stomach in shambles all night; the appetizer of field greens was nothing to write home about; the flourless chocolate cake was the sole saviour of an otherwise blase meal. Zooey Deschanel was beautiful as expected and graciously fended off the journalists questions as she navigated through the room. I got to meet and shake hands with Joseph Gordon-Levitt who is even more adorable in person (and politely makes eye contact when meeting people). Had a great conversation with a New York Times Style contributor sitting next to me who shared my pain in trying to find a reasonably priced black Chanel handbag. Overall, the experience was great but I would never again eat at Casa Lever!
Thursday: Went out for drinks with a friend. First hit up Buddha in Meatpacking and it was pretty dead. Considering the location and the atmosphere was really cool, I expected a hipper crowd - but mostly older crowd and even though it was fairly empty the bouncer made us wait at the door.
We then went to Juliet - 539 W21 st. Crowd was hipper, younger and energetic, dancing and also table seating. Expect to pay typical Meatpacking drink prices; 2 cocktails for $31. Wasn't extremely crowded but pleasantly stocked with goodlooking people.
Friday: Met up with 5 girlfriends for dinner at Cafeteria on 17th and 7th. Had a dinner reservation for 10pm, but since we were running late they would only hold the reservation until 10:15. Scene was very hip and young; especially since this is open all night. Cocktails were innovative (lychee options!) and more reasonably priced than many restaurants. The truffle mac and cheese is to die for although I advise against eating the whole thing yourself. The fig salad was delicious and unique; filling yet very healthy.
We then met up with some people in Meatpacking to go out at Tenjune. Don't count on getting in unless you know someone. Luckily, since my friend knew the owner we were able to get in. Some of the best looking and well dressed people in Manhattan, although there were a few creepy old men thrown in th mix. It was EXTREMELY crowded on the dance floor and got pretty warm... however, it was totally worth the discomfort because it turns out Peppa of Salt n Peppa was celebrating her birthday there and gave an impromtu performance of "Push It". When the crowding was too much to handle we went across the street to Buddha and was suprised that yet again it was dead! More so than on Thursday, and a strange older crowd. But it was nice in that my girlfriends and I were able to sit at a table, converse and relax since the tempest at Tenjune. Getting tired, my girlfriends and I left Buddha and ran into Peppa on the street while waiting for a taxi. She was with a couple of friends and right next to us, so one of my friends ask her "Are you really from Morristown, NJ - I am from there?!" to which she replied excitedly "Yes I am!" and sweetly posed for pictures with us.
Sunday: I had a wedding to attending in Long Island. Navigating the subway for a newbie is difficult enough, but the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) was a whole new experience. Apparently the unlimited Metrocard does not apply for LIRR - and once on the train they accept cash only (which obviously I never have and got a ridiculous look from the conductor when I asked if they would take my credit card). I was told I would have to fill out some paperwork, but the guy never came back with it so I ended up getting a free ride!
After the wedding my friend from school who was an entertainment writer for the LA Times (he recently struck out on his own blog) had invited me to a film screening and dinner for '500 Days of Summer'. I had already seen the movie so I just met up with him at Casa Lever on Park Avenue for the dinner. The main course of Risotto left my stomach in shambles all night; the appetizer of field greens was nothing to write home about; the flourless chocolate cake was the sole saviour of an otherwise blase meal. Zooey Deschanel was beautiful as expected and graciously fended off the journalists questions as she navigated through the room. I got to meet and shake hands with Joseph Gordon-Levitt who is even more adorable in person (and politely makes eye contact when meeting people). Had a great conversation with a New York Times Style contributor sitting next to me who shared my pain in trying to find a reasonably priced black Chanel handbag. Overall, the experience was great but I would never again eat at Casa Lever!
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