In the core of the outdoor shopping center is ‘the loop’, a quarter-mile roadway surrounding two gazebos and a playground, plus space for relaxing, performances and events throughout the year. (Courtesy of marketcommonclarendon.net)

In preparation for Valentine’s day,

visit Clarendon’s shopping soiree.

Saturday, Feb. 11, from 2-4 p.m., enjoy a shopping serenade,

and don’t worry about parking, for just $8 you can get your car valeted.

A guitarist, violinist and accordionist will play classic love songs,

that are sure to romance and entertain the Clarendon customer throngs.

Come with a Valentine’s gift for a loved one in mind,

but don’t forget about yourself, with all these great sales you never know what you’ll find.

Origins, Whole Foods and South Moon Under,

are a few examples. What are others, you wonder?

Valentine Shopping Serenade

Saturday, Feb. 11

2-4 p.m.

Enjoy a shopping serenade of soloists performing at Market Common Clarendon on Saturday afternoon. A guitarist, violinist and accordionist will play classic love songs as they stroll from store to store.

Gift Ideas:

South Moon Under – Market Common Clarendon

Charming Jewelry

Enjoy 20 percent off Dogeared and Nashelle charms jewelry from Feb. 9-14. Charms are the perfect gift for everyone. There are initial charms, birthstone charms and very festive love-themed charms with prices ranging from $30-$80.

Whole Foods Market – Market Common Clarendon

Valentine Roses & Bundles

Enjoy special savings from Feb. 11-14. Score 20 Whole Trade Roses for $20, or select a special bundle:

Bundle 1 ($39): Rose Arrangement (12 Whole Trade roses) and Lake Champlain Chocolates (six-piece heart-shaped box).

Bundle 2 ($49.99): Rose Arrangement (12 Whole Trade roses), Lake Champlain Chocolates (six-piece heart-shaped box), DeChanceney Cremant de Loire Brut.

Origins – Market Common Clarendon

Sweet Kisses

Stop by Origins to test the store’s best lip products and enjoy a complimentary mini-facial or color consultation just in time for V-Day. Choose two liquid lip minis (valued at $15) FREE with purchase of two Origins products.

The Papery – Market Common Clarendon

Luxury for Less

Treat yourself, or your loved ones, with unique luxuries like Bon Bon Lip Balms, Bon Bon Shea Butter Lotions, Perfumed Milled Soaps, Eau de Parfums, and Crushed and Distilled Soy Wax Candles. With fragrances such as Dead Sexy, Honey and the Moon, French Kiss, Gin and Rosewater, and Let Them Eat Cake, you will enjoy brilliant packaging and the finest of ingredients. Also take advantage of special limited-time promotions on stationery offered by William Arthur, Vera Wang and Crane.

NOLAS for Hair – Market Common Clarendon

Pampering for Pennies

Give the gift of beauty to a loved one or to yourself as an indulgent treat.  Purchase a hair care package that includes a Kerastase Instant Ritual conditioning treatment and an amazing blow dry for $45 (savings of $20+).  Upgrade the hair care package to include a haircut for $65.  Just mention “Hair Care Package” to redeem the offer.  In addition, get 10 percent off any retail purchase in the month of February, 14 percent off all retail purchases on Valentine’s Day.

Happy shopping!

-Hilary Adleberg

A cheery blue Marc by Marc Jacobs iPhone cover, a sweet Valentine idea for only $24, five percent of which will support local charities if you use your Saks card. (saks.com)

Hello there, shoppers!

Have something you can’t wait to buy at Saks? (Umm, remember that Valentine’s Day is just a week away.) Wait no more. Five percent of purchases made at Saks Tysons Galleria this month, using the Saks credit card, will support three local charities:

Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic

Lupus Foundation of America of DC/MD/VA

Washington Humane Society

Yes, throughout the entire month of February, getting fabulous helps out our friends who are less fortunate. You’ve gotta love shopping for a cause!

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Save 20 percent on GLAMGLOW now with code CUPID20 at skinstore.com. (Photo courtesy of skinstore.com)

At first I was skeptical. The exfoliating mud mask GLAMGLOW comes in a rather small container at 1.7 oz and sells at a leap-of-faith price of $69. And quite honestly those are the only two issues I had with this product.

Full disclosure, I thought it best to begin this product review admitting the cons in an attempt to gain your trust. This topical potion is unlike any face mask I have tried before. It left my skin feeling fresh and beautiful and not oily or dry, which are the extreme results that I have grown to expect from a “miracle mask.”

GLAMGLOW has a legion of loyal followers who, after reading their reviews, could just as easily be believed to be talking about a religious awakening as an exfoliating mud mask. With a cult-like fan base of customers ranging from celebrities such as rock star Tommy Lee and “Vampire Diaries” lead actress Nina Dobrev to the average Joe Schmoe, GLAMGLOW gets rave reviews across the board. GLAMGLOW has even been declared a Neiman Marcus Beauty Award Winner for 2012.

The only category earning GLAMGLOW four stars, instead of the expected five star feedbacks, is the price. But since I’ve already addressed that issue, I’ll continue with the ingredients and directions.

Containing volcanic pumice rock, French sea clay and pieces of green tea leaves among other natural ingredients, GLAMGLOW advertises its gentle tingling effect, which I found to be very refreshing. I applied a single layer of the magical elixir to my naturally dry, yet oily and unevenly toned face. There are little grain-like scrubbers that gently exfoliate during application.

I let the mask harden for about 15 minutes or until I could see the color completely turn from a moist, charcoal grey to a dry, lightened shade. I washed off the mask as I would any face wash and actually felt as fresh and glowing as a Clean & Clear model. And, believe me, the effects are visible. I can finally clean out my drawer full of failed face masks with certainty that I will no longer need the combination of an oily face mask to counter the dryness caused by the harsh face mask.

GLAMGLOW, available from the GLAMGLOW website, on Amazon and elsewhere, seems to be the perfect trick to rejuvenate every skin type.  But for the best price right now, visit skinstore.com, which is offering a 20-percent-off deal right now with the promo code CUPID20.

Happy shopping!

–Hilary Adleberg

Shutterstock.com/viadek

Hello there, shoppers!

If any of you were thinking that The Dandelion Patch and the local chain’s always-energized leader Heidi Kallett would be slowing down any time soon, guess again.

Not only did the store, with locations in Vienna and Reston, expand to Georgetown and Leesburg last year but it’s opening another store at National Harbor this spring and an outlet in Tysons (8455 Tyco Road) today, Feb. 7!

How does 50-75 percent off The Dandelion Patch’s stellar selection of stationery and gifts every day sound? Thought so!

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. When the Reston Dandelion Patch reopens Feb. 16 (the store is busy moving to Library St. at Reston Town Center), from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Bella Figura will be hosting a paper party to show off their new collection of invitations at the new store. The first 25 brides to register will get a SWAG bag filled with Bella Figura goodies; one lucky winner will receive 100 free invitations; and each registered attendee will score a $25 gift card from The Dandelion Patch.

Screen shot of shopsavvy in action. (Courtesy of apple.com)

ShopSavvy gathers retailers’ locations, directions to and fro, and phone numbers. A blue dot next to the item signifies whether or not it is in stock. The app even shows the merchant’s price-matching policy to see if a closer retailer will match the lower price of a store located further away.

Shopping for a friend? Whether your’re intentionally shopping for a friend or accidentally stumble upon an item you know your friend would love, you can share the information about the product through email, facebook or twitter.

Through this application users can view shipping promotions, coupon codes, rebates, sales and available contests.

L’Auberge chez Francois (Photo Courtesy James Kim)

Great Falls’ legendary L’Auberge Chez François is the place to dine with that special someone during this romantic month. Here are some other items to get you in the mood.

Kate Apron, Hysteria, shophysteria.com, $250

Ferragamo Jeanette Lace Clutch, Bloomingdale’s, www.bloomingdales.com, $1,090

Sondra Roberts ‘Rose’ Satin Box Clutch, Nordstrom, www.shop.nordstrom.com, $98

John Robshaw Arial Pillow, Red Barn Merchantile, redbarnmercantile.com, $240

Year of Color September Ring, Kate Spade, www.katespade.com, $78

Starry-Eyed Skirt, Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.com, $128

Statement Tray by Mariposa, The Nest Egg, thenestegg.bigcartel.com, $39

Wood and Metal Wine Holder with Chalkboard, Wine Rack Station, www.winerackstation.com, $100.95

James Kim (L’Auberge chez Francois); courtesy of cape craftsman (wine rack); courtesy of anthropologie (skirt); courtesy of the nest egg (tray ); courtesy of john robshaw (pillow); Courtesy Of kate spade (ring); courtesy of nordstrom (rose clutch); Courtesy of hysteria (apron); courtesy of bloomingdale’s (clutch)

The Deuter Kid Comfort II is a child and parent's dream. (Photo courtesy of rei.com)

Hello there, shoppers!

With this gorgeous weather we’ve been having this week — in January and February, no less! — if you’re like me, you’re finding every excuse to get outside and enjoy it. And if hiking is one of your priorities in fine weather, but you’re thinking the fact that you have a little one in tow these days will make things a bit more difficult with such endeavors, it may be time for a Deuter.

My family has the Deuter Kid Comfort II child carrier ($239 at REI) and we all love it! The Sure Thing fits my husband and I both perfectly with minor adjustments made to the straps, and our little girl, now about 24 pounds, doesn’t hurt our backs at all, even after long hikes.

That was not the case with the Sherpani Rumba, which we tried first. Of course, we’re both tall — he, 6′ 2″; me, 5′ 10″ and change — and I believe that played into our Sherpani dissatisfaction; we just couldn’t get the bottom straps to sit on our hips correctly.

Back to the Deuter, my biggest fear with these types of carriers is that they can be dangerous when it comes to getting in and out of them, but the Deuter’s foldout stand feels really secure. I usually sit on the landing of our stairs, about five inches off the ground, with my feet, five inches below, and I have no trouble at all getting up to a standing position with baby girl on my back.

Another great feature: There are all kinds of pockets for hiking or everyday accessories. But it gets even better. The Deuter Kid Comfort II has a chin pad that’s removable and washable; its materials are all very breathable; the adjustable child seat has a five-point harness system that’s a cinch to hook up and unhook — not a puzzle like some carriers — and it holds children and gear up to 48.5 pounds.

But don’t just believe me; check out the reviews on REI – five stars, baby!

Happy shopping — and hiking!

–Natalie Kaar

Amy Clements attended Robert E. Lee high school in Springfield. (Courtesy of facebook.com)

Though fashion isn’t stereotypically one of the areas of expertise for a Deloitte accounting firm consultant, Springfield-native Amy Clements of Deloitte is an exception. Today she veers from her typical daily consulting assignments to give advice on a more stylish subject.

Q: What is your fashion mantra?

A: My fashion mantra is shop by brand (Nanette Lepore, Theory, and Burberry are my favorites) and always ask your mother, especially if she is as stylish as my mother is.

Q:  Name some of your fashion icons.

A: I love how the Olsen Twins command the business, and Heidi Klum looks amazing all the time.

Q: Where did you get your love for fashion?

A: I received my love for fashion from my eldest sister and my mother. When we were younger my sister would make these massive collages for the walls in her room from fashion magazines. I was inspired (aka copied her) to make similar collages in my room in high school. She is also an artist, and her fashion sketches were my favorite pieces. Her hilarious blog might inspire you at k8 the gr8. My mother successfully dresses her three girls, and my father practically on a daily basis. She has a great eye for color, fit and what looks best on all of us. She is also what I like to call a bargain huntress—oh, you found a Burberry trench for $1,000 in tan, my mom can find it for $500 and in red. She is also stunningly beautiful, and Eileen Fisher should ask her to be a model because she wears their collection well.

Q:  Which do you think is more important, creative thought or good style sense? Can you have one without the other?

A:I think creativity is more important than having a good sense of style, and you can have one without the other. People can have a classic style but not be creative enough to take risks or try new looks. Creativity allows you to push yourself and redefine as you wish.

Photo matte with love quote. (Courtesy of Clements)

Q: You’re not only a fan of fashion but totally hooked on DIY. Have you always been interested in the latter?

A: Yes, I have always been a fan of DIY. However, “Do it yourself” should never mean just by yourself. I would like to coin the term DIWH, “Do it with help.” Big projects and events are always more fun with support from my friends or my family.

Q: You recently incorporated DIY in your sister’s wedding. Where did you get the idea to do so?

A: DIY (now DIWH) was a theme at my sister’s wedding because my sister’s vision for her wedding is not yet sold in stores. We had a lot of help from the talented Jessica Bailey, graphic designer from the blog Jessica Bailey has something to Show and Tell. Once the six-color wedding palette was determined, we were able to focus everything. We also made several inspiration boards (poster board with magazine pictures glued on it of what things the bride likes best) and referenced 100 Layer Cake often.

Q: What are some of your favorite trinkets that you constructed for the wedding?

A: The wedding was spectacular and beautiful. My favorite pieces were the bride and groom wreaths for the back of my sister’s and her husband’s chair, the handmade pennants, and the matted pictures with my sister’s favorite love quotes.  We also made all of the centerpieces with blue mason jars, ranunculus flowers and with a picture of the bride and groom. The table number matched the age of my sister and her husband in the photo on the table—it was adorable. And how could I forget the DIY invitations?! They can be seen on Jessica Bailey’s Blog.

Bride and groom wreaths. (Courtesy of Clements)

Q: What are some of your favorite websites for creative inspiration?

A: My favorite websites are the blogs mentioned above, Kendi Everyday for a quick fun look, and Etsy. Also, Pinterest is becoming a new fun way to see fashion and inspiring websites!

Q:  What is your job title and how does it shape your style?

A: I am currently a consultant with Deloitte. I love to wear high heels (with a work-appropriate toe), feminine cut suit (darts, capped sleeves, and pleats) and classic accessories (never forget earrings or a watch in a professional setting).  Also, when no one is around, I pretend that the corridors of the office are a runway—stomp walk to the printer to get papers, and it will empower you for the rest of your day!

Q:  Do you think creativity is an important accent that enhances your life? Have you ever considered exploring the fashion world professionally or do you enjoy it more as a hobby?

A: I try to bring creativity to every aspect of my life and think it is an important enhancement to my life. I considered a career in fashion while I was in high school but discovered a passion for consulting while in college. I still get an array of fashion magazines in the mail, and I love to talk fashion with my friends and family.  I do not feel pressured to follow trends — I just want to look great and have fun with fashion!

Happy shopping!

–Hilary Adleberg

Today, Feb. 1, 2012, is a fabulous day! TOMS ballet flats have officially arrived, and are just $79! (They will debut at Nordstrom Feb. 18.)

Cupid, if you’re paying attention, a few faves:

Lina (all photos courtesy of TOMS)

Burlap Alessandra

Brown Gisele Leopard

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

It’s almost Valentine’s Day! Whether you go coo-coo for all things Cupid or are all “Bah Humbug” about the “Hallmark holiday,” the pressure is typically on to buy something special for that special someone come Feb. 14.  Let’s face it, in some circles one can also be expected to spread the love to far more people than just that significant other.

No sweat this year, though, because SWAG’s out to prove that you don’t have to go overboard and break the bank to bring on a big smile — hopefully, in that significant other scenario, followed by a kiss. And you don’t have to possess Bakerella’s beyond-perfection baking skills.

SWAG’s 2012 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Awesome Gifts Around $30

(We’ve skipped the flowers and chocolates route, as we’re pretty sure you can swing that on your own.)

FOR THE FASHIONISTA

Guys, if you have a fashionista on your hands, first we suggest hightailing it to the Old Town Boutique District Warehouse Sale this Saturday (just know your lady”s sizes). Or be among the first at Target Feb. 5 to wow her with a bargain Jason Wu beauty.

If those aren’t reasonable options, considering your schedule or fright over such shopping scenes, here are a few more fab options for you:

Fire Ring Drops, $32, at Anthropologie (also come in green and cream)

These dangles are practically guaranteed to delight her, and for very little dough. (Photo courtesy of anthropologie.com)

 Aqua Enamel Ethnic Hinge Bracelets, $28-$32 each, Bloomingdale’s

These bangles hit on several spring trends, also for very little bank. (Photo courtesy of bloomingdales.com)

FOR THE HOPELESS ROMANTIC  (MALE OR FEMALE)

There’s always writing something really sweet; that’s something that’s always welcomed with open arms. Or maybe you could whip a romantic meal or snag a spot at an ultra-romantic resto. But we have two inexpensive ideas that could make things even better.

 Acacia Bed Tray, $24.99, Bed Bath and Beyond

This plus a promise to make breakfast in bed more of a habit than a holiday thing ... we're talking bonus points. (Photo courtesy of bedbathandbeyond.com)

Josie Natori for Target Print Push-up Bra, $13.98, Target

These lovely bras and panties from one of the most esteemed names in nightwear are gorgeous bargains that will bring something special to the bedroom, time and time again. (Photo courtesy of target.com)

FOR MISS OR MR. FUNNY PANTS

You know your love’s sense of humor, so you know what would tickle his or her funny bone the most, but here are two items that we found particularly funny, especially in this politically obsessed area.

Disappointmints, $3.95, Paper Source

If your special someone leans far to the right, this could really hit it out of the park, for practically pennies. (Photo courtesy of paper-source.com)

 Bumper Sticker, $4.95, Zazzle

And here's something for the lefties in love. We don't choose sides. (Photo courtesy of zazzle.com)

FOR THE LONG-DISTANCE LOVE

You don’t get to spend nearly enough time together, and you’re dying to give a gift that will keep the fire burning across the distance. Don’t think grand gestures like a trip to Tiffany’s are the only option.

A Message in a Bottle, from $22.95, timelessmessage.com

Taking it back to the old school is so cool. A little corny, but so sweet. (Photo courtesy of timelessmessage.com)

A Photo Book from Adoramapix, 10″ x 10″ from $34.95

I used to think mypublisher.com ruled the roost in terms of photo books, but I'd argue this site is the winner these days. Each book is made on pure photo paper, with lay-flat pages, and the lustre and vibrancy is unbelievably good. (Photo courtesy of adoramapix.com)

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar