S.W.A.G
Shopping Simplified: Money Saving Mom
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, January 21st, 2011
Hello there, shoppers! One of our goals for S.W.A.G. in 2011 is to send you more apps and sites that make shopping simpler. Today, a special one for some of the busiest, most budget-minded shoppers out there: moms.
New to the mommy club, I’ve been amazed at all of the wonderful items out there for the small set and the ones who take care of them. Every day I seem to have another item to add to the don’t-know-what-I’d-do-without-it list (like the Sleep Sheep) or the adorable-beyond-words list (baby JaR products). I also seem to get ever more grateful for the fabulous friends and family with fantastic taste who introduced me to those items. But such talk is for our Sure Things posts. At any rate, it does bring me to the topic of today’s post …
Gotta-have-’em and oh-so-adorable items add up. Fast. But thankfully there are new sites all of the time that make things a bit easier on our wallets.
One of the latest with which I’ve become acquainted: Money Saving Mom. Kind of like babycheapskate.com, the site (originally started as a small blog from a woman who became a budgeting pro while her hubby was in law school) lists links to several mom-minded bargains each day. It doesn’t typically point to discounts on designer duds, though. I’d still refer to sites like The Mini Social and Zulily for that stuff. Instead it’s all about bargains on the basics from vitamins to detergent to organic food. From coupon codes to print-and-clip coupons, there are oodles of everyday deals featured from stores like Bath & Body Works, Target, CVS, etc.
Worth a look if you’ve resolved to making a game out of the whole bargain-shopping thing.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
PS. No time to get away and catch some rays? You wouldn’t know it by looking at you if you were to take advantage of today’s Specialicious deal–a discount on in-home airbrush tanning!
PPS. Don’t forget Valerianne’s White Sale starts today, with discounts up to 65 percent!
NoVA’s Newly Engaged: Today Brings Big-Day Bargains
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, January 20th, 2011
(Shutterstock)
Hello there, shoppers! Today I’m pleased to spread special news to area brides. Not only does Specialicious have a wonderful deal on bridal gowns right now but one of our favorite sample sale sites, Rue La La, is opening a special online boutique for brides, grooms and their guests today at 11 a.m.! Get ready for Style I Do!
Of course, I suggest stopping by the site before 11 for sales including Marc by Marc Jacobs (never too early to start shopping for someone’s April birthday or Valentine’s Day, I say) and Earnest Sewn among others!
Here’s your invite if you’re not yet a member.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
This Week’s Most Tempting Local Shop-ortunities
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, January 19th, 2011
Luxurious bamboo towels, starting Friday, 1/21/11, up to 65 percent off (Valerianne)
Hello there, shoppers! Getting super stoked for spring, now that you’ve received Bloomingdale’s rundown of the season’s hottest looks for men and women? Well, don’t expect your enthusiasm to wane anytime soon. Regardless of the weather, NoVA is the place to be right now, given oodles of outstanding shop-ortunities practically surrounding us this week.
A few examples:
Tired of the same old hump day happy hour? Tonight at Herndon’s Calvert Rejuvenations, voted “Best Spa” in last year’s Best of NoVA Survey (voting for the 2011 Best of NoVA Survey opens Feb. 1), beginning at 6:30, enjoy perusing a selection of over 250 affordable jewelry items for everyday and evening ensembles from Premier Jewelry as you socialize and sip champagne. The best part: No pressure to buy and the more the merrier … Bring or send a friend that has never visited the spa and receive 50 percent off any item at the Leesburg Dandelion Patch and a $20 Calvert Rejuvenations gift card!
Speaking of rejuvenation, Rejuvenations Massage, also of Herndon, is about to celebrate giving their 10,000th massage. Great for them, right? Well, this news could also be great for you. If you’re the 10,000 massage recipient (they expect to hit the milestone at the end of January, beginning of February), you’ll be surprised on the spot with a year of free massages, a $1,200 value!
Now when it comes to bargains, always delightful in the shopping world, you’re going to want to feast your eyes on Leesburg’s fabulous Madisonbelle. The shop has just increased discounts on winter markdowns — everything is now 50-75 percent off! Oh, and don’t forget about all of the outrageous discounts in Old Town Alexandria.
But don’t totally blow through that bargains budget. Friday will bring tremendous deals at the luxurious Valerianne in Vienna, as part of the store’s winter White Sale, which will run through Feb. 6. Enjoy saving up to 65 percent on 
all in-stock sheet sets, duvet covers, mattress pads, quilts, shams, towels, bath rugs, placemats and tablecloths PLUS 20 percent off any custom orders.
And, finally, did you catch a load of today’s Specialicious deal? An oh-so-tempting offer for area wine aficionados!
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Bloomingdale’s Spring Trends: Act Two (Men’s Wear)
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, January 18th, 2011
Hello there, shoppers! Considering sliding into Starbucks and ordering up a Trenta to help you get over your winter weather cranks? Well, there’s an idea, but I have one that will save you a boatload of calories — OK, not a boatload, but 31 ounces worth of them — and put even more spring in your step.
It’s a rundown on all of the hottest spring styles for NoVA’s male hotties, straight from the sartorial stars at Bloomingdale’s.
Men’s 2011 Big Spring Trends from Bloomingdale’s
Luxury with a bit of ruggedness …
Eli Tahari Basic Dress Shirt with Barrel Cuffs, Spread Collar (Bloomingdale's)
“This season the men’s department was inspired by pop culture, our favorite hot spots in New York and Los Angeles, and the stylish streets of Milan and Paris,” says Kevin Harter, vice president of men’s fashion direction. “Shoppers can expect to find a mix of tailored pieces with a nostalgic twist, as well as fashionable sportswear that feels as good as it looks.”
Suits take a nostalgic spin - Tailored clothing will continue to be a hot trend for spring 2011, and this season you’ll find a 1940s-inspired assortment with a touch of old New York City. Designers including Z Zegna, Canali, Burberry London, Turnbull & Asser, and Hugo Boss cover all aspects of the well-tailored man’s day with pieces that are perfect for spring including:
· Knit ties
· Slip-on loafers
· Vibrant colored dress shirts
· Lightweight suits
· Spread-collar dress shirts
Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit V-Neck Silk Sweater (Bloomingdale's)
Hyannis port - This trend effortlessly updates classic sailing clothes reminiscent of a young JFK with a preppy modern twist. You’ll find pieces from The Men’s Store Bloomingdale’s, Billy Reid, Michael Kors, POLO Ralph Lauren, Theory and more in this preppy and stylish collection that radiates a subtle casual air. Key pieces included in the collection:
· Linen shirts
· Cotton cable sweaters
· Summer pique polos
· The “Paul Newman” jacket
· The beach chino
Shipwrecked – Think “Gilligan’s Island” meets “Lost” – a perfect blend of classic beach with a touch of adventure from brands such as Nudie, John Varvatos Star USA and Riviera Club. Stylish beach-inspired pieces welcome in the warm days of spring, while those with functional details like extra pockets or sun protection make sure you’re ready for all the elements. Key looks include:
· Short-sleeved henley
· Long tank top
· Rolled chino
· Cargo short
· Short swim trunk
· Striped knits
· Bucket hat
Surfrider Foundation – Bloomingdale’s continues its support of the Surfrider Foundation and their efforts to protect and preserve the world’s oceans, waves and beaches, with the launch of dedicated shops in 13 stores across the country. Debuting as part of the semi-annual New York Nights event to be held in Bloomingdale’s stores nationwide on April 13, the shops will be loaded with unique apparel and accessories that are exclusive to Bloomingdale’s from top designers. Ten percent of all sales from the Surfrider shops during New York Nights will be donated to the Surfrider Foundation, as well as an additional $25,000 donation by Bloomingdale’s. Also look for select pieces on bloomingdales.com. Some of the designers creating pieces exclusive for the Bloomingdale’s Surfrider collaboration include:
· RLX Ralph Lauren
· Marc by Marc Jacobs
· Sea Bags
· Saturday Surf NYC
· Engineered Garments
· Gitman Brothers
Happy shopping! And, thanks again, Bloomingdale’s! (If there’s anything a girl likes more than sporting great spring styles herself, it’s seeing them on her main man.)
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. Brides, want to save $300 on your dream gown? Head to Specialicious!
Seeing Green at This Year’s Truly Golden Globes
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, January 17th, 2011
(film.com)
Hello there, shoppers! My, oh, my, how those stars did shine last night! Fresh after catching “The Fighter,” which deserves any award it gets if you ask me, it was my extreme pleasure, as it always is, to catch the red carpet couture of the Golden Globes. I can’t say that I’m always so impressed practically across the board, though. I mean, I can’t say I’m a huge fan of Natalie Portman’s pink and red maternity gown, but she still looked stunning. And when it comes to favorite looks, I have more than a few.
First, how fun was it too see fabulous green frocks on Angelina Jolie and Mila Kunis among others?
And when has basic black (not that you can really call it that) looked better than it did last night on Eva Longoria and Halle Berry?
Speaking of Angelina and Eva, is anything more feminine than a great backless gown? I don’t think so. And we sure saw a lot of fine examples of those.
Also, I dare anyone to try to outdo the sparkly stunners that Anne Hathaway and Olivia Wilde wore. Wowza!
And January Jones’ red hot look? Amazing! But how does one get into that? (Maybe she took advantage of Bloomers’ end-of-season sale (stop into the Alexandria gem this week for up to 40 percent off lovely unmentionables and lounge wear).
NoVA, your mission: Pick just one fave from the ridiculously amazing looks displayed on last night’s red carpet. Do dish.
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. If narrowing things down and playing favorites has you seeking some comfort in the form of food, look no further than Specialicious.
Bloomingdale’s Spring Trends: Act One (Women’s Wear)
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, January 14th, 2011
(Bloomingdale's)
Hello there, shoppers! Happy Friday!
As you know, a lot of spring styles are already out there, just begging to be purchased. Don’t want to waste your money on spring apparel that won’t really sizzle next season? Enjoy a little Spring 2011 shopping cheat sheet courtesy of the fashion brains at Bloomingdale’s!
“This spring season, Bloomingdale’s invites women to update and enliven their wardrobes after a long and cold winter,” says Stephanie Solomon, operating vice president of fashion direction. “From the new bright hues and playful prints, to the return of the 1970s with a new and modern spin, we are excited to offer the latest trends from all of the top designers.”
Today, we focus on lovely apparel for the ladies. Look for the must-buys for men and the home next week.
Without further ado, your cheat sheet:
Spring Awakening - This spring wake up your closet with vibrant and happy colors, eye-popping prints and bright whites.
Bright color and color mixing – Bright pink, bold orange, cobalt blue and jade green are just a sampling of the color tones that are making their ways from the catwalks of Milan, Paris and New York into Bloomingdale’s. Jump into the trend by mixing and matching for a color block look from Diane von Furstenberg, or simply opt for one bright shade from Marc by Marc Jacobs, either way you’re sure to shine.
Prints and re-colored stripes – Prints are a great way to express your own style. From romantic floral motifs by Rebecca Taylor to modern and polished geometric shapes from DKNY, there is the perfect print for everyone. The stripes trend continues, but this spring they are updated with doses of colorful pairings and size variations.
White for everything – Cleanse the palette in your closet with a refreshing dose of white. From shirts to pants, dresses and coats, and even suits for the office – white promises to be a star this spring. Our favorite? White lace, macramé and crochet details for the perfect amount of texture from Ralph Lauren Collection, Free People and more.
Stylish Weekend Apparel – Bloomingdale’s offer shoppers the best of both worlds with the ability to be comfortable and relaxed, yet always stylish and chic, when dressing for the weekend this spring.
The new tees and tanks – Both tees and tanks were given an instant “upgrade” with special details and embellishments like sequins from DKNY or ultra-flattering draping detail from Joie. Pair either with skinny denim capris from Seven or True Religion, or the brand new J Brand cropped flight pant (follow up to the ultra-hot Houlihan pant) – either way you’re sure to look chic, and more importantly be comfortable!
Trenches – What to wear on a chilly spring evening? One word – trench. Ideal for topping off your lady like ensemble or adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit – the trench is the “it” coat this season. Keep it classic with a neutral tone from Burberry, or get playful with bright candy color hues from Kate Spade, your options are endless.
(Bloomingdale's)
1970s – Bloomingdale’s caught the 1970s fever that dominated the runways with the introduction of new lengths in dresses and skirts, a fresh silhouette for pants, and the return of peasant blouses.
Longer lengths – Opt for the midi (translation – hits at the calf, hiding knees and accentuating the ankles and fabulous shoes!), or the longer maxi length, both of which you’ll see in both dresses and skirts, and for every occasion both daytime and evening.
Wide-leg pants – The pant silhouette eases up with wider legs in everything from denim, to trousers, and even leggings. Slightly raised waistlines also return. Look to designers like Paige, BCBG and many more for the perfect new pant.
Peasant blouses – Add just the right balance of sweet and sexy to your wardrobe with a blouse this season. Floral prints paired with wide leg pants is a Bloomingdale’s favorite, but they look equally as elegant paired with a pencil skirt for the office.
Accessories
The status scarf – From New York City to Milan, all of the runways were wrapped up in the return of the scarf. Proving to be the essential “must-have” accessory for spring, Bloomingdale’s will be the place to find every color and print imaginable from Aqua, Burberry, Vera, Echo and Pucci to name a few.
Wide-brim floppy hats – Whether you’re looking to protect yourself from the sun, or just want the perfect piece to top off your 1970s-inspired fashionable ensemble, you’re in luck – the wide-brim hat is back! The look ranges from neutral straw to bright and bold versions, proving that every style and age can enjoy this trend.
Retro round sunglasses – When it comes to sunglasses for spring it’s all about retro inspired plastic frames in a neutral palette. The round lens shape is key for this vintage chic style that designers such as Tom Ford are mastering.
Emphasize the wrist – This spring is all about bringing attention to your wrist with all of the right accessories. Key pieces include –
· Friendship bracelets
· Rose gold watches
· Scuba inspired watches
Ladylike handbags – Spring 2011 brings structure back to handbags. Look for the perfect ladylike bag from designers such as Rebecca Minkoff, Tory Burch, and Z Spoke by Zac Posen – a new collection offered at Bloomingdale’s this spring.
Crazy for clutches – An oversized clutch is a must-have in your handbag collection for spring. You’ll find the perfect clutch to go from day to night from Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kooba, Fendi, Lauren Merkin, and more. Really dive into the trend by opting for a saturated color like bright orange.
It’s all about the perfect heel – The right shoe is key in order to pull off all of the new clothing lengths this season, two trends you can find at Bloomingdale’s include:
· Wedges
· Ladylike heels
Woven ballet flats - Yet another nod to the 1970s mood, woven ballet flats are a top choice for adding a bohemian flair to your linen shorts or denim cropped pants that you’ll be wearing this spring.
Happy shopping! And thanks, Bloomingdale’s!
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. Don’t miss today’s new specials on Specialicious!
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, January 13th, 2011
(shopposhboutique.com)
Ladies who love Posh Couture, designer fashions hand-picked by the fabulous Jewell Green, get ready to get your posh on from the comfort of your pad!
Posh Couture is opening up an online store on Feb. 1, and if you sign up for alerts from the site now, you’ll get sneak peek of the web boutique before others and snag a special gift!
Happy shopping, indeed.
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. Last call for half-off Korean cuisine at Specialicious!
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, January 12th, 2011
Redeem through Jan. 13
Hello there, shoppers! So, we’ve all got a a new iPhone to buy soon, right? To keep that wallet in check even as you add some awesome new apparel to your closet, check out some of today’s unbelievably good deals.
First, how about that coupon on the right, for additional savings on top of the delightful everyday savings at Crystal City’s Gossip on 23rd, good through tomorrow?!
Second, for the little ones in your life, don’t miss the sale on winter items and spring apparel at Hanna Andersson, in Tysons and online. As a new mom, this is now one of my favorite stores. I was smitten as soon as I spied this little snowsuit (makes me like snow again) and adorable sweaters like this during my Christmas shopping. Fortunately the stuff even washes up great, too. (Seriously fighting the urge to embark on a big ol’ shopping spree for baby girl.)
Speaking of snow again, no matter how pretty the stuff is, doesn’t it put a little spring in your step to think of spring? Well, don’t wait to save on spring styles for you, now on sale at calvinklein.com. And back to the little ones … Car seats are a necessity, but why pay full price? Through Jan. 16, select car seats are 20 percent off at diapers.com with the code SAVECARSEATS, and you’ve gotta love their super-fast free shipping.
Of course bagging a bunch of bargains can make a shopper hungry. If this happens to you, log onto Specialicious.com and scoop up some serious savings on authentic Korean fare and sushi.
Oh, and since you’ll need more room to hold all of that cash you’ll be saving, how about a haute new handbag for less? Lastcall.com is ready to heed your call.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. THE local sale event of the winter takes place Feb. 5: the practically legendary Old Town Boutique District Annual Warehouse Sale, featuring up to 70-percent savings from our favorite Old Town shops!
All Eyes on Verizon, Home Design Sales & Tips
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, January 11th, 2011
Mezzo Couch (boconcept.us) *25 percent off through 1/31/11
Hello there, shoppers! Here’s hoping you’re good at multitasking. First, there’s all that speculation that today Verizon will finally introduce their very own iPhone (oh, how long I’ve been dreaming of the day!). Could it really be true this time? Here’s hoping.
Then there’s one absolutely incredible sale at Bo Concept, 25 percent off their most popular couches! For instance, the Grey Sofa in Sazza fabric was $1,195 and is now just $895, and the Camel Sofa in Salvador leather was $10,990 and now just $8,240.
Yet another distraction: Red Barn Mercantile in Alexandria just announced a 2011 Design Trends Workshop that you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendar now for Jan. 20, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Owner Amy Rutherford and her special guests, Terri Sapienza of the Washington Post and Dayana Yochim of the Motley Fool, will be discussing the latest design trends and how you can incorporate them into your own personal style. Extras: free cheese and wine.
Sign up today!
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, January 10th, 2011
Hunter Regent Savoy Black Boot (zappos.com)
Hello there, shoppers! A new year is all about newness (as you may have gathered from life if not our January issue), and SWAG is no exception. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be rolling out several new ongoing SWAG series, one of which is very dear to this shopper’s heart: Sure Things.
From the time we’re babies, we come to love certain objects as if we couldn’t live without them. We could have a million blankets, but there’s that one that is just so snug, so soft, the perfect pattern to keep us entertained. That one blanket somehow achieves perfection, at least as close as we can come to it. Well, when we grow up, it may not be a certain blanket (though, who doesn’t love a high-thread-count warmer?) but surely there is that one mascara, that certain brand and style of jeans, that one spatula, that particular bag that makes life just that much better.
I’ve shared my affinity for Hudson jeans (long, lean, soft fabrics, gorgeous hues). But when it comes to what to wear over them, one foot accessory that I just love, love, love — seriously, I wonder how I ever did winter without them? — is my Hunter Wellies, specifically the Hunter Regent Savoy Boot pictured.
Why? First, the design is fun, and less just-rolled-out-of-bed than Uggs (not than I’m an Ugg hater). Second, they’re practical — totally waterproof and easy to wipe off. Third, they’re comfortable. Plus, you can make them go with just about anything. At least certain stars seem to prove that. At roughly $175, I’d say you get a lot of bang for your buck. Of course some Hunter boots (in all kinds of fun colors, styles and lengths) cost as little as $115. And if you watch sample sale sites like ruelala.com and gilt.com, and you’ll often spot them for around $75.
Gotta love something that does far more than just double duty! Agree? What’s one of your wintertime or anytime sure things?
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Ps. Don’t miss today’s Specialicious very-special specials!