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!