Chictopia

I stumbled across this site that apparently isn't such a secret. Teen Vogue named Chictopia.com "the next big thing." It's a place to browse for fashion inspiration, share your views on certain looks or designers, and learn about what looks good on you. You can also upload pictures of yourself and your own fashion finds. Frankly I'm a little peeved that I didn't come up with this first, but maybe Chictopia.com is just paving the way for Bargain Babe to be named "the next-next big thing". Right?? Click here to check it out.

Coupon Cabin

I really can't stand collecting grocery store coupons but I approve of these for shopping: http://www.couponcabin.com/index.htm

Um, Hello bags and shoes?

Click here for stylist Rachel Zoe's picks.

Does my fashion sense influence my job security?

If there is ever a time to exude professionalism - it's now! The philosophy I was taught in fashion school was - dress for the job you want, not for the job you have. If the job you have IS the job you want, then dress to keep it. You don't have to wear designer labels to look professional. Make sure you are covered, conservative, and chic. This doesn't mean you need to dress like a stereotypical secretary, just put a little more thought into your appearance than you normally would. If you are lucky enough to be able to wear jeans to work, you can still look professional by pairing with a blazer, and nice shoes. Don't ever take advantage of a casual dress policy. Stephen Viscusi, author of "Bulletproof Your Job" stated this is the number 2 way to ensure job security. I have listed the top ten for your information and if you want to purchase Viscusi's book, click here:

1. Arrive early, stay late, skip the two-hour lunches—this is the first defense against out-of-sight-out-of-mind syndrome

2. Look good—your superiors will note exceptional personal presentation

3. Pay attention to details—show care over the smallest particulars

4. Listen up—tune in instead of zoning out in meetings, conferences, conversations

5. Speak up—ask questions, answer questions, offer an intelligent point of view

6. Volunteer to lead—offer to head up projects, meetings, events, research initiatives etc.

7. Make presentations—a great way to put your confidence, mastery of a subject, and communication skills on display

8. Represent your company —offer to represent your company at seminars, meetings or conferences

9. Find a mentor—she can be a valuable advocate for you with other influential managers

10. Talk to your boss—make a regular habit of communicating with your boss about lots of things, not just problems

VIP Holiday Deals at the Short Hills Mall

Stop by the Guest Services desk in the Short Hills mall and ask for the Holiday Special Offers brochure. In it you will find offers at just about every store and restaurant in the mall. The savings include 20% off at Banana Republic, 15% off your purchase at Ann Taylor, and 10% off at Johnny Rockets when you spend $10 or more.

Merchandising Your Closet

I used to find myself forgetting about a shirt I love or a wrap dress because it was hidden in my closet behind bulky items like sweaters or folded over pants. While most people don't have the luxury of having a closet like Kimora Lee Simmons, we can still keep our garments organized so that we know what we have to choose from. It's important to merchandise your closet. I like to organize by purpose and color. I have a work section and a going out section. This way I am only "shopping" in one area of the closet when I am rushed to get out the door.

Un- buried Treasures

Do you feel like you have nothing to wear or you are just tired of your current wardrobe? If going on a shopping excursion is simply not an option right now, try to take a rainy day to organize your current wardrobe. Lay out all of your tops, skirts, pants, dresses, sweaters, shoes, bags, belts, hats and scarves and play dress up. Try to pair and layer pieces that you wouldn't normally have time to experiment with while getting ready for work in the morning. You may end up looking like a bag-lady Olsen twin, OR you may end up with a few free new outfits thanks to your own creativity!

A Pedi Friendly Alternative

Here is a peep-toe boot alternative that is versitile and less expensive, and pedi friendly.

<-- Nine West Iceblue Boot $99.99

Peep Toe Conspiracy

Here is a trend that I don't love. The peep toe boot; I just don't get it - are the world's boot makers in cahoots with nail salons to ensure that pedicures are perfectly maintained even throughout winter? While I DO continue my pedicures throughout all seasons, this really puts the pressure on.

Featured here from Macy's: Marc Fisher "Zadie" Ankle Boot $129.00 -->

Loehmann's news!

Click here for your Loehmann's discount.

Discount Alert

Bargain Hunters,
Click here to access Nordstrom's 40% off sale. (Thanks for the tip Sarah!)

Jewelry for the Masses

I have always loved but have never owned Adina Jewelry. It's a bit pricey depending on what you are looking for, but it uses classic lines and design elements that will never go out of style.

http://www.adinadesign.com/ (Above left- Snake ring. Above center - Snake necklace. Above right - Circle ring.)

Here is a tip on Shoosing Shoes (get it?)

When choosing a heel, opt for one with a small platform in the front. It will keep you foot balanced as you walk and create less tension on the ball of your foot throughout your busy day. Try something like this from Aldo -->

My Shoe and Bag Secret

More and more people are asking me where to go for boots that fit just right. I have also been asked "where did you get that BAG? What designer is it?" I usually have the same response to both questions, and that's Bakers Shoe store in Livingston or Rockaway. I would say 8 out of 10 times I will find an expensive looking piece here for less than $100 and sometimes less than $40.
http://www.bakersshoes.com/

Surveying the Bargain - Is it a steal?

Quick Tip:
When bargain hunting, here are some questions that I like to ask myself to determine whether I should buy a garment or not.

1. Will this last if I wash it at home or will I need to spend on dry-cleaning?
2. Are there quality fastenings and is the finishing done properly on this piece (buttons, zippers, hem, etc)?
3. What other pieces can I pair this with that will make the outfit look complete?
4. Will this work with the belts, shoes, jackets that already I own?

Hope this helps! Do you have any tips on how to survey the bargain? Share with the Bargain Babe.

Shopping 101 - Saving Strategy

Say I am looking for a high-waisted pencil skirt but I don't need a Zac Posen design. It just needs to look expensive right? Here is my strategy. I will go to Norstrom for a piece like this since I know that they have several departments that I can search through. I will start on the top floor, Brass Plum. Yes - I know, it's a Junior department and I'm 27 years old. I'm not in denial and I'm not delusional. It's worth trying because I would rather get a larger size here and save $40-$100. If the quality of the garment isn't up to par then I venture to the next department.

Let me give you another example. If I need a long sleeve tee, I will go to Old Navy first, then the Gap, and then Banana. I am not going to start at the top of the pricing hierarchy if I can get what I need at the lowest price point.

Have a garment in mind that you are looking for and don't know where to start? Ask Bargain Babe!

Quick Links to Shopping Splurges and Savings

If you feel like a splurge here is your one stop shopping destination for clothing, accessories, shoes and more:

http://www.couturecandy.com/

If you have hours to kill on a rainy Saturday or Sunday try out one of my personal faves on the third floor of Century 21 Department store. (Don't miss the shoes either) I know the hot spots in the store, so skip the digging and ask the Bargain Babe where to shop within the store before you go. I'll save you time and energy.

http://www.c21stores.com/

Some of my girlfriends and stylish moms that I know prefer Loehmann's. For me, it's hit or miss - and I'm NOT a fan of the open style fitting room. If you have no shame, or no need to try on altogether, check it out:

http://www.loehmanns.com/

Another old fave is Fox's. This store caters to a 35-60 demographic, but if I am looking for something Cache-ish, this is my store.

http://www.foxs.com/

Do you have a favorite store? Let me know about it!

Fashion Tips to be Thankful for

Thanksgiving tip: If you are having a casual dinner with family at a relative's house, or at your own home, keep it simple. Chances are you will be surrounded by activity and you may be helping in the kitchen at times (if not the entire day).

I like to wear a simple sleeve with no hanging elements. Avoiding a dip into the gravy when passing it across the table is something to be thankful for.

I also recommend a low heel, or none at all. I will opt for a pair of riding boots from Century 21 department store, and a Banana Republic Dress that I got on sale for $50.00 the other day.

Need help with your Thanksgiving Outfit? Ask Bargain Babe!