Eye-4-Style

Check your area Macy’s. This is a great opportunity to add to your work wardrobe! My sale bulletin shows clearance suits originally $200- $340 on sale 2/$99 for morning specials (9am-1pm) Feb 7 & 8th. Also offerings at $79.99. Pantsuits, skirtsuits and more. 

Don’t forget to check pumps Bandolino Zazie pump

and Easy SpiritQuota Pump

Freshen up your work wardrobe at prices you’ll love!

I’m a curious person and like to know what people think and what their habits are. I find it interesting that shoppers can be very rigid in their shopping habits; they may never set foot in Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus. They don’t buy from catalogs because of returns. They only shop at certain retailers because they think they can’t afford or won’t find anything in a boutique or higher-end store. I say, don’t limit your choices. There are possibilities everywhere!

I like seeing clothing on models as it’s easy to visualize the outfit on my body, so catalog or on-line shopping is good for that. The larger retailers have made returning items very easy. You usually have a return label and an amount is deducted from your credit. When I calculate time and gas, the amount to return the item is less than what I’d spend on the streets. Just be sure to try on the items right away, keep the original packaging, carefully repackage the item and return as quickly as possible if it doesn’t work.  It is worth it to me when the stores I’m ordering from are further away or “on-line” has sales.

I enjoy going to the boutiques on Oak Street in Chicago.  They are fun to visit and there’s a limited amount of square footage, but you’ll find items there you won’t find elsewhere. If your time is limited, I’d go to Nordstrom or Saks, Macy’s, Bloomingdales. They have your favorite designers under one roof. When visiting Chicago, I plan my time carefully with boutiques and department store shopping. While some labels are out of reach for the average consumer, it’s an adventure to touch and see the fabrics and designs. Believe me, you will see that filter down to your price level in a different fabric, but it makes you aware of what is out there and a better-informed consumer. Try on different brands and designers to find what works for your body type.   Also watch for the “clear it out” sales – I’ve made great purchases at 75% off!

I like wearing dresses: easy to wear and care for and they elevate your everyday look. Last weekend I ran to the grocery store – slipped on one of my “everyday” or what I call “lounging” dresses and flats. Amazingly 3 compliments while shopping.  Responded “Thank you” while thinking “ this cost me $30.00!” You don’t have to spend a lot to look good!

Shopping the deep discount sales, Macy’s is a sure bet in checking out items for this purpose. Last Fall, I bought 4 dresses that had been $100-$139. With sale discounts and my Star Rewards and newspaper coupons, the most I paid for a dress was $34. Alfani, Rachel Roy, INC, DKNYC were my picks. It took 90 minutes to peruse the racks and try on my armful of choices and I came away more than satisfied.

During my cousin’s recent  visit,  we shopped at Macy’s during one of their big sales. We went our separate ways for a bit and when we met up, she hadn’t purchased anything. Not being one to easily give up, we returned to the racks, narrowed down a brand that works best for her (Jones New York) and found $700 worth of work clothes for $198.00!  She was ecstatic and I was happy: “mission accomplished!”

Keep in mind when shopping, get into your “hunt and gather” mode. With lots of shoppers, not all the items are returned to their proper size racks. Also, if you’re not sure which size you take with a certain brand, don’t be afraid to  “eye it up.” I can take anywhere from a small to large, depending on brand and style of dress. And if I’m buying “out of season,” I look for styles and colors/patterns that are timeless. I can always “trend it up” with accessories.

Macy’s has an on-line sale going on right now. Take a peek!

http://www1.macys.com/shop/womens/sale-clearance/dresses?id=50016&edge=hybrid&cm_mmc=MCOM-_-20110803_MCOM_RTWFashionSale-_-50016-_-MB&cm_em=lisa@lisa-rae.com#!fn=SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DCasual%26pageIndex%3D6%26sortBy%3DORIGINAL%26productsPerPage%3D40&!qvp=iqvp

Gwyneth is getting a lot of flack about her spring fashion advice. Tooting high-end fashion designers with pricey clothing, this isn’t fashion advice for the masses…or is it?

First let me say, we’re addicted to The Real Housewives of ________(insert city here). While spectators to the drama, we’re also watching women who have lots of cash to spare for grooming, maintenance and their closets. Before that, Sex and The City was a must-watch successful TV show- again drama but ahh, THE FASHION! Fashionistas realized that purse cost $2,500, or how many Manolo Blahniks are priced under $600 a pair? So what’s the difference? Does the drama in these shows diminish the price tags attached?

And what about William and Kate’s shindig? Hats and outfits that carried hefty price tags (the hats alone… yikes), and probably would be worn once? Oh wait, it was The Royal Wedding (of the century), and the British who keep those secrets ….well…under their hats so to speak.

So why do we beat up on Gwyneth? Is it because she’s beautiful, successful, lives a privileged life or has such a cool husband, COLDPLAY’s Chris Martin? (ok a little jealous ).

I believe she’s created a niche market for her website. She’s upfront on her choices and the price tags. While those who can afford and have access to these choices appreciate her style sense, those who are recovering from the economy say “come on now, really?” But being a shopper and blogger, from Saks to Target, Bergdorf to Macy’s, I say – let’s take this a step further.

Years ago I had a persistent salesperson trying to convince me that the $800 LBD (little black dress) was an essential for my wardrobe. A basic I could use for years to come. The cost of the LBD amortized over the number of uses (yes, she was good). But $800 for a LBD  wasn’t realistic for me. And what if the drycleaner ruined the dress or I wanted to change it up after a year or two?  So I took that idea and put it in line of what was in my budget. I bought a LBD for $100 and had several good years with it. My “cost per wear” went from $80 to $10.

So if you’re not offended by Gwyneth’s fashion tips, note her suggestions and take those to the stores that are in your budget. Those items are out there…believe me. Retailers cater to their clientele, whether you have $18K or $200 to spend. I bet you can find a $1,295 Chloe Bow clutch “look-alike” from $25-$50. This is the “hunter and gatherer” in all of us…..oh wait…we call that shopping!

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So the message of this Blog is this: If you like it, copy it within your budget. Or just enjoy the eye-candy like we do with our TV shows. Or when the Porsche Carrera or Ferrari go rolling by….geez I don’t have one of those parked in my garage but damn…love the roar of that engine!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, which means great fragrance gift sets are available saving $$ and nicely packaged. Whether replenishing your fragrance or gift giving, here’s a few Macy’s offerings:

Lancome makes the best mascara: I’ve been using it for years.  The mascara alone is $25, and this bonus pack gives you two shadows, travel Aquatique (eye color base) and an eye pencil for an additional $14.50. If you don’t buy one for mom, be sure to get this for yourself. WOW! 

Lancome Hypnotic Eyes Set – A Macy’s Exclusive

A $94.00 Value
Only $39.50  Click

A delightful fragrance set –

Lancome Tresor in Love In Bloom Collection Value Set

A $71.00 Value
Only $55.00  Click

……..OR……….

See gift with qualifying purchase:

Lancome Tresor In Bloom Collection Value Set

A $131.00 Value
Only $89.00  Click

…..spend $65 and over to receive free watch…..

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NEW! FREE Watch with $65 perfume purchase!

If Ralph Lauren Romance is on your list, get the free watch and tote:

FREE GIFT with $78 Ralph Lauren Romance Fragrance Purchase!

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NEW!

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Ralph Lauren Romance Gift Set

$79.50 

To view other fragrances that offer “Gift with purchase,” click HERE

Note: Macy’s Friends and Family event April 27-May 2nd. Extra 25% off clothing, shoes – 10% electronics, furniture. See details.

Still searching for that special dress for the upcoming holiday season? Here are great choices from BCBGMAXAZRIA!

NEW!

BCBGMAXAZRIA Dress, Sleeveless Illusion Top Evening

$398.00

A sophisticated yet sexy style, this  dress features a beaded illusion top for a dramatic look.

NEW!

BCBGMAXAZRIA Strapless Tulle Dress

When the occasion calls for true glamour, dial up the drama with a show-stopping strapless gown.

NEW!

BCBGMAXAZRIA Dress, Strapless Ruffled Evening Gown

$278.00

A long cascading ruffle creates a supremely feminine look on this glamorous gown.

NEW!

BCBGMAXAZRIA Dress, Feather Neckline Gown

$548.00

Lighten up in this fabulous gown with a whimsical feathered neckline, contrast banded waist and graceful drape.

BEADED TULLE DRESS

NST6C446-001

$478.00 Capture glamour and elegance on a special occasion with this beautiful beaded tulle dress

PLEATED LACE DRESS

NST6K756-001

$378.00 Beautful lace and flowing tulle make a sweet, elegant impression with this inspiring dress.

PLEATED SILK GOWN

LUB6D989-996

$298.00 Make a sweeping entrance at a special occasion with this beautiful flowing gown.

I’ve said time and time again, INC International Concepts is a great brand to spice up your wardrobe without breaking the bank. My recent visit to Old Orchard Mall  had me going through their offerings for the upcoming season. Glitter, glam, classic – you’ll find it all here.

The dress and coat outfit below is a dazzler. Full price was about $260 for the two pieces. Great cardigan with skirt too. 

Karen Kane had nice options.  I liked this display for the “Hostess with the Mostess” for the holiday season. Stylish yet comfortable for your entertaining needs.

I wish I had allowed more time for shopping at Macy’s when there recently. I believe this store has been a work in progress since taking over the closed Lord & Taylor space in Water Tower. This visit was a delightful surprise as I feel the store is getting better and better.

Here’s some pictures of the extensive INC International Concepts line Macy’s has to offer.

As I’ve said before, INC is a fun collection for a wide range of ages and body types at a great price point!

If you haven’t heard, Friday Sept 10th is Fashion’s Night Out. Good idea. Why? I don’t know how it came about but I say let’s put a little energy and merriment into our lives as we begin the fall season. Lift our spirits as we remember September 11th. Check your stores for events or click on hyperlinks below. There are several chances to contribute to charities with purchase of particular merchandise. 

Have fun!

Window on 57th & 58th Street

BERGDORF GOODMAN  For events, click HERE

FOR SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, Click HERE

MACY’S  STORES

NORDSTROM EVENTS, Michigan Avenue

BLOOMINGDALE’S EVENTS

The eye-4-style site is under maintenance and I’m in the process of moving, but there’s so much talk about! Chicago’s Michigan Avenue; Worth Avenue in Palm Beach; The International Plaza in Tampa; The Waterside Shops in Naples, and today, The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. I could have spent the day at Nordstrom! Macy’s and Saks, Bloomingdales and Michael Kors just to name a few others, are presenting great fashion for all body shapes and budgets. Fabrics, colors and styles are amazing! Cosmetics and skin care are just getting better. Always have to stop by the NARS counters and Elemis for skin care.  I’m also delighted by the sales personnel. Always feel free to talk to them about merchandise and products. They are knowledgeable, pleasant and very helpful in taking care of the customer to find what they’re looking for. Smiles all around!

More soon………………!