Savvy Shopping

Gilt Fuse

2009-08-12T09:07:00.004-04:00

Gilt Groupe is launching a new site today called Gilt Fuse, which will also hold sample sales. Gilt Fuse is exclusively for women and will feature more unknown and up and coming designers. If you belong to Gilt Groupe, you automatically have access to Fuse. To join now, click here.

Today's Gilt Fuse sales:
Modern Amusement
Kova & T
Generra

Upcoming Gilt Fuse sales:
Kelsi Dagger
Larok

Diana Warner Double Dulce Choker

2009-08-09T19:22:00.004-04:00

I recently ordered the Double Dulce Choker from Diana Warner Studios. This is my first piece of jewelry from her, and I am really loving it. I adore how basically everything on her site comes in a variety of metals (I ordered my necklace in rose gold and silver), so you will always get exactly what you want.

This necklace is part of her "Obligato" collection which all feature the signature rings. Obligato is Portuguese for "something one cannot live without." Money from the Obligato necklaces goes to helping provide clean water for Africans.

I have received so many compliments on this necklace, it's so wearable and goes with everything. It's just the perfect accent piece. I am so happy with it.

Sales this week

2009-07-27T13:55:00.001-04:00

Sample Sales this week:

MONDAY

Gilt Groupe:Heidi Weisel scarves, Mellinda Maria and Carolina Bucci jewelry, Zac Posen clothing

Editors' Closet: Francesco Biasia handbags

The Top Secret: Denim of Virtue clothing

Beyond the Rack: Boxfresh clothing, Scanty sleepwear

Hautelook: Delman shoes, Zoe Chicco jewelry, Beyond Yoga, Designer ready-to-wear blowout sale

Billion Dollar Babes: Priorities Clothing & Wren

Rue La La: Casadei shoes, Dream Society clothing

ideeli: Donald J Pliner shoes, Heartlooom clothing

TUESDAY

Gilt Groupe: Warren Tricomi haircare, Casadei shoes & Helmut Lang

Editors' Closet: Sequin jewelry

The Top Secret: CC Couture clothing

Hautelook: Doris Panos jewelry, Lancome makeup, Philip Stein watches

Rue La La: Furla handbags, Invicta watches

WEDNESDAY

Gilt Groupe: Rachel Roy clothing, Perricone MD Cosmetceuticals, Inhabit knitwear, Carlos Falchi handbags, Gara Danielle and Rosena Sammi jewelry

Editors' Closet: Dolce & Gabbana and Burberry sunglasses

Beyond the Rack: Michael Stars clothing, Techno Marine

Hautelook: Gold Hawk clothing, Vix swimwear

Rue La La: Cosabella underwear, D & G jewelry

ideeli: Mac & Jac clothing

THURSDAY

Editors' Closet: Love and Thorn jewelry

Gilt Groupe: Dana Davis shoes, Marc by Marc Jacobs swimwear, Susan Hanover jewelry & Behnaz Sarafpour

The Top Secret: Christian Dior sunglasses

ideeli: Sweet Pea clothing

Beyond the Rack: Parasuco clothing

Hautelook: Gorjana jewelry

FRIDAY

Editors' Closet: Designer blowout sale

Beyond the Rack: Kenneth Colee glasses, Joe's Jeans

ideeli: Nicole Miller clothing

Hautelook: Sweetees clothing

Rainy Summer

2009-07-24T09:51:00.002-04:00

It has been an extraordinarily rainy summer this year in New England. Though the rain is dreary, I love my rain gear: Pucci boots and a Davek umbrella, both shield me from the rain and have yet to fail me (this umbrella seems to be indestructible, even with heavy winds unlike my previous Burberry umbrella which only lasted two years), and the boots are beyond adorable. I've never seen anyone with the same ones. What's your rain gear like?

Beyond the Rack

2009-07-23T12:36:00.003-04:00

A new sample sale site has just started up: Beyond the Rack.

Sign up for Beyond the Rack now!

Current and upcoming sales include: Gucci Sunglasses, Bruuns Bazaar, Energie, Miss Sixty, Pure & Simple, Fendi Handbags, Criminal, Kenneth Jay Lane, Seychelles, Boxfresh and U.S. Polo Assn.

Tory Burch Private Sale starts today!

2009-07-23T12:26:00.002-04:00

Jewelry Sales

2009-07-23T10:28:00.005-04:00

Lots of discount codes lately on some beautiful, unique jewelry:

Diana Warner - had beautiful pieces, and almost all of them available in a wide assortment of metals for reasonable prices. I ordered a rose gold and silver necklace, hope it arrives soon!
http://www.dianawarnerstudio.com
30% off with code dailycandy30

Wendy Mink - ordered a pair of hammered silver hoops, again, lots of reasonably priced stuff.
http://www.wendyminkjewelry.com
35% off with code luckybreaks5

I'll share pics when the goods arrive.

Happy Shopping!

2009-07-23T10:03:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry for neglecting my blog! I'm really going to try to be better about updating!

Hautelook coupon code

2009-02-19T20:18:00.001-05:00

20% off at hautelook.com
code: INSTYLE09
expires: 3/31

Sephora Brand Daily Brush Cleaner To Go

2009-02-05T09:25:00.000-05:00

Description from Sephora:

What it is:
A travel-size, anti-bacterial spray for your makeup brushes.

What it does:
Sephora Professionnel introduces a better way to care for your beauty tools. Just spray this daily anti-bacterial formula cleaner on your powder, blush, eye and lip brushes after using, and they'll be refreshed and ready to go for your next application. It comes in a portable size, easy for anytime cleaning.

What else you need to know:
Disinfecting and protecting your brushes prolongs their life!

My review:
I know that keeping makeup brushes clean is important. I usually give them a good cleaning with the MAC brush cleaner when I think about it (bad habit), but then I have to wait for them to dry. I saw this at Sephora and thought it was a great idea. It's simplicity seemed to make it foolproof; it's a spray.

Honestly, I don't know if it does anything. It has a fresh smell, and I think it helped on my powder brushes, but did nothing for liquid/cream brushes (like concealer brush). It definitely isn't a deep clean like when using a more intense cleaner, I guess it's more of an in-between maintenance item- like using face masks in between facials.

Stila Convertible Mascara

2009-02-03T12:19:00.005-05:00

Description from Sephora:

What it does:
A smudgeproof mascara that defines, lengthens, curls, and strengthens.

What it does:
Stila Convertible Mascara contains an innovative polymer formula that encases each lash with a smudgeproof, water-resistant "tube". The "tubes" bind to each lash and leaves you with long, lush, defined lashes that can weather any storm without flaking or smudging. The double-ended brush allows this product to work overtime: One tapered large brush volumizes and defines top lashes while one smaller narrow brush defines the lower and harder-to-reach inner lashes,

What else you need to know:
Due to the thermo-sensitive technology, Convertible Mascara is easily removed with warm water only. Simply splash your face with warm water and gently wipe your lashes clean.

My Review:
My Sephora order arrived yesterday (look forward to No Frizz Living Proof Hair Products and Brush Cleaner reviews) and I was thrilled to finally have this tube of mascara in my hands, it seemed so smart, and I had heard lots of good reviews of it. I was excited for two different sized brushes and easy removal with only water and how my lashes would look.

This mascara gives a ton of oomph! I flick the brush over my top lashes once and there's a huge difference, they're full, long and dark. They hold a curl nicely; my lashes are nicely separated, no weird spider eyes. Perfect. So I open the lower lash side and try it out. Bad. I think it's because my lower lashes are too long; it just didn't look right since the mascara seemed to lengthen a bit too much (which is why it's amazing for the upper lashes). The small brush is still good for the little lashes in the corner of my eye, but I was sad about my lower lashes. The one thing I find is perfect for lower lashes is Neutrogena Lash Tint; this darkens and enhances without lengthening or thickening, which I guess is all I need for my bottom lashes.

It does however come off incredibly easy with only water and minimal scrubbing. I am so happy about that. I tend to be lazy about eye makeup removal, so this is a dream come true to me.

Overall, I really like it, not sure if I'll repurchase, but will keep using before I make my final decision.

Free Bliss

2009-02-02T14:52:00.008-05:00

Bliss is giving out a free full size bottle of their Love handler ($36 value) lotion with any purchase this month. I have not tried this, but it has some fantastic claims and good reviews on their site, which leave me curious about it:
bliss the love handler
A liquid workout for lazy abdominals!

Why we love it
•stimulates skin surface for improved firmness and contour
•energy releasing amino acids firm and burn with creatine
•caffeine stays active for up to 8 hours!

Want to whittle your wiggly waist, tone tummy pudge and keep back fat at bay? Wage war on those not-so-hard 'core' areas with this genius gel, formulated for extended 8-hour caffeine release. With cooling mint oil and naturally-derived amino acid ingredients.
clinical studies show:*
• 54.5% saw a reduction in the appearance of bloating in the abdominal area
• 50% reported an improvement in tone and contour
• Testers saw a trimmer waist in just 2 weeks
*Results reported from an independent clinical study conducted over a 6 week period.

Just add anything to your cart, and this will show up for $0.00

Enjoy!

ShopBop.com

2009-02-02T10:52:00.002-05:00

15% off select hanky panky at shopbop.com with code BEMINE. I'm a hanky panky addict, so I thought I'd pass this along.

Click here for info and available styles

Upcoming Sales

2009-02-02T09:42:00.004-05:00

Many sample sale sites post info in advance, here's what is coming up this week.

Editor's Closet:
Bjara (now open)
Judith Jack (now open)
Swatch (now open)
Fendi Sunglasses (2/3)
Hawke & Co (2/4)
Gucci Watches (2/5)
Antoinette Lee (2/6)

Gilt Groupe:
Marc by Marc Jacobs Ready to Wear, Accessories & Men's (2/2)
Be & D (2/2)
Jan Leslie Cufflinks (2/2)
Alexander McQueen (2/3)
Dana Rebecca (2/3)
Sofia Cashmere (2/3)
Lamberston Truex (2/4)
Slane & Slane (2/4)
Natori (2/4)
Monica Rish Kosann (2/4)
Acne Jeans (2/4)
Lingerie Essentials - On Gossamer & Cosabella (2/5)
Ports 1961 (2/5)
Pour la Victoire (2/5)
Robin Rotenier Cufflinks (2/5)
White & Warren (2/6)
Lagos (2/6)
Jill Stuart (2/6)

Haute Look:
Genetic Denim (2/2-2/3)
The Pursuit of Harmony (2/2-2/3)
Styla (2/2-2/3)
Yaya Aflalo (2/3-2/4)
Elizabeth Showers (2/3-2/4)
Lesa Wallace Handbags (2/3-2/4)
Christopher Fischer Cashmere (2/4-2/5)
Mimi and Coco (2/4-2/5)
Autumn Cashmere Accessories (2/5-2/6)
Ratna Kids (2/5-2/6)
Carmen Marc Valvo (2/6-2/9)
Samson Martin (2/6-2/9)
Diaper Dude (2/6-2/9)

ideeli:
Abaco (2/2)
Morra Designs (2/3)
Natori & Josie (2/3)
Mauboussin (2/5)
Tom Ford (TBA)
Gianfranco Ferre (TBA)
Missoni (TBA)

Rue La La:
Pink Tartan (2/2-2/4)
Judith Ripka (2/2-2/4)
Life is Good - 100% of proceeds go to Life is Good Kids Foundation (2/3-2/5)
Penguin (2/5-2/7)

The Top Secret:
Kenneth Cole Watches (2/2-2/3)
Antik Denim (2/2-2/3)
Rampage Handbags (2/5-2/6)
Ellen Tracy Dresses (2/5-2/6)
Andrew Marc Handbags (2/9-2/10)
Essentials By ABS (2/12-2/13)

Rue La La Loot

2009-01-30T12:14:00.019-05:00

Bought a new Stila palette at the Rue La La sale, I always want to get the gift sets with a ton of stuff, but I realize I won't use at least half of it and it's never worth it. I ordered the Stila "Scarlett's Deluxe Palette" which I remember seeing at Sephora and liking, but never bought it, so I'm glad I got it today. I always love a palette: they're easy to travel with, the colours always compliment each other, and they normally have nice packaging. Here are some stock photos, I'll post real photos and a review when it arrives.

Item details:

Palette with an eye base color, lid color, liner, cheek color, and lip color
Eye shadows: Soft Pink (base), Silvery Rosy Pink (lid), and Shimmery Pink Grey (liner)
Cheek: Shimmering Mauve Pink Peach
Lip: Grapefruit
Includes lip brush
Case decorated with delicate Swarovski crystals

The Top Secret

2009-01-30T10:08:00.005-05:00

I recently got invited to The Top Secret; this is yet another invitation only sample sale website. I only just registered this morning, so don't know very much about it yet, and haven't ordered from there, but thought I would mention it in case there are people who are interested.

Current and upcoming sales:
Christian Audigier
Eco-Friendly Fashions
Kenneth Cole Watches
Antik Denim
Rampage Handbags
Ellen Tracy Dresses
Andrew Marc Handbags
Essentials By ABS

Sample Sales

2009-01-29T11:39:00.006-05:00

Haute Look now has a bunch of designer perfumes up, I ordered some YSL Babydoll for part of my mom's birthday gift. They're four miniature bottles in an adorable box (pictured at right), it's one of her favorite perfumes, so I know she will love it. Plus they're the perfect size for travel. Tomorrow they are having Borba, which is a skincare brand, I've never tried it, but have heard great things, so I may try something out.

ideeli has Marc by Marc Jacobs today, but it's mostly watches and things I don't need, although they're all very cool looking. Gucci tomorrow.

Gilt starts at noon with Vera Wang and Botkier, I'm really excited to see what Botkier they have and the deals. Though I should probably try to restrain myself.

Tomorrow Rue La La is having Stila! Very excited about that. Haute Look had a Stila sale a few months ago and I got some awesome stuff for so little. I'm a bit of a makeup junkie, so it's good to save some cash. I love Stila products, and know I'll be picking up something from that sale.

Does anyone need invites?

New item I'd like to try

2009-01-27T21:26:00.001-05:00

I'm intrigued by this product. Anyone try it? Thoughts? Opinions? Reviews?

Gift With Purchase

2009-01-27T15:20:00.004-05:00

I recently stumbled across the GWP Addict Blog, and love it! This blog compiles beauty gift with purchase promotional codes into one neat space. It's ingenious and so fantastic to have a go-to for beauty promos. I love freebies, and will definitely be checking this out before making a purchase in case I can get some extra goodies.

Just wanted to pass the good word along. I just placed a Sephora order with the NOFRIZZ promo code, can't wait for it to arrive, will post when it does!

Happy Shopping!

Today's Mail

2009-01-26T20:21:00.018-05:00

Love for Love Quotes Scarves!

Today in the mail was my latest addition to my small Love Quotes scarf collection. Love Quotes are these gorgeous Italian Linen scarves in an amazing assortment of colors. They're huge (35 inches wide and 72 inches long), delicate and luxurious. When I ordered my first one (after reading a lot of hype about them on The Purse Forum) I feared it would be rough because of the linen, but it turned out to be just the opposite, these scarves have a lovely smooth texture that is hard to describe. They're incredibly versatile and can be worn in so many different ways. My latest choice was Bordeaux, a gorgeous deep red wine color, I completely adore it. One of the best parts is the tag with a quote about love on them; I keep them on my bulletin board at work. Revolve's shipping is incredibly fast too, and I had a 30% off code (I have more to give out too, let me know if you need one), so I couldn't resist adding another piece to my wardrobe.

New Scarf in Bordeaux:

My Love Quotes Scarf Collection
Colors (from left to right):
Cosmopolitan, Violet Frost, Bordeaux, Porcini

Tags:

Etsy Love

2009-01-24T10:42:00.002-05:00

I adore Etsy, for those who don't know, it's basically an online marketplace for handmade goods, a lot of it is one of a kind, and unlike things you'll find in your usual shopping ventures.

My recent purchase is Nina Gibson's Penny For Your Thoughts Ring, and it is amazing. Nina makes every item to order (you can even specify a year of penny you want, I asked for one of the old wheat pennies, I just think they're cooler) She takes a penny, molds it so it's more comfortable for finger wearing and puts a band on it, stamped with "penny for your thoughts," and then sends it off to you. The whole process takes less than a week, I got mine in about 5 days. I get so many compliments on it, and love having something so unique.

My ring:

Intro

2009-01-23T11:06:00.001-05:00

I'm a fashion conscious 20-something living in Boston. I love to get a great deal. I'm going to use this space to photo-blog and review various things, places, etc...

Invitation Codes - Haute Look, Gilt Groupe, Rue La La, ideeli, Editor's Closet, The Top Secret, Glam List, Beyond the Rack, Shop it to me...

2009-01-23T10:36:00.055-05:00

When I'm in NYC I try to hit up sample sales to score great items on the cheap. However, I reside permanently in Boston, where sample sales are a bit harder to come by. I turned to the web and found a plentiful supply of only sample sales - best part is the lack of crowd and fighting over the last of something.

Sample sale websites are a great way to get designer items at really low prices. I'm completely addicted and belong to quite a few. If you'd like an invitation code to any of the following, just comment with your e-mail address and which one(s) you'd like an invite from and I'll send you an invite to join in the fun!

Beyond the Rack
www.beyondtherack.com
click here to sign up for Beyond the Rack now!

Billion Dollar Babes
www.bdbshop.com
click here to sign up for Billion Dollar Babes now!

DD Push
www.ddpush.com
click here to sign up for DD Push now!

Ebates
Get money back on purchases you were going to make anyway! It's an amazing thing. And they are almost always running a promotion for new members where you can get $5 or a free gift card after you make your first purchase.
click here to join Ebates now!

Editor's Closet
www.editorscloset.com
click here to join Editor's Closet now!

Fab
fab.com
click here to join Fab now!

Gilt Groupe
www.gilt.com
click here to sign up for Gilt Groupe now!

Glam List
www.glamlist.com

Gomatta Girls
www.gomattagirls.com
click here to sign up for Gomatta Girls now!

Groupon
www.groupon.com
Get e-mails to sign up deals on things in your area, they have site for most major cities, as well as some other areas. They often have restaurant discounts and special deals for fun things in your area!
click here to sign up for Groupon now!

Hautelook
www.hautelook.com
click here to sign up for Hautelook now!

ideeli
www.ideeli.com
click here to sign up for ideeli now!

Joss & Main
www.jossandmain.com
click here to sign up for Joss & main now!

One Kings Lane
www.onekingslane.com
click here to sign up for One Kings Lane now!

Open Sky
opensky.com
click here to sign up for Open Sky!

Rent The Runway:
It's kind of like the netflix of dresses, but no membership fees- you just rent designer clothes and send them back when you're done. It's brilliant!
renttherunway.com
click here to sign up for Rent The Runway now!

Rue La La
www.ruelala.com
click here to sign up for Rue La La now!

Secret Style
www.secretstyle.com
click here to sign up for Secret Style now!

Shop it to Me:
It's basically like having a personal shopper find your favorite brands and your sizes on sale, and then they e-mail you as often or little as you like.
click here to sign up for Shop it to Me now!

Shopping Paris Mode
www.shoppingparismode.fr
click here to sign up for Shopping Paris Mode now!

Sole Society
Started by hautelook. You answer some style questions and get your 'style bio,' then they recommend amazing, unique, high quality shoes for you for just $49.95. It's a lot of fun.
click here to sign up for Sole Society now!

StyleMint
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's members only site featuring personalized picks for new t-shirts every month. Just $29.99 each
click here to sign up for StyleMint now!

SWIRL by DailyCandy
www.swirl.com
click here to sign up for SWIRL now!

The Top Secret
www.thetopsecret.com
click here to sign up for The Top Secret now!

Just comment with your email and preferences and I'll send invites!

Happy Shopping!

Lori