Assorted Shopping Sweets: New Collections, New Stores & More

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Friday, March 23rd, 2012

Crocs Nautical Navy and Oyster Melbourne II Short Vamp, one of Crocs' new spring styles. (Photo courtesy of crocs.com)

Hello there, shoppers!

In addition to these blissful temps, the shopping world is practically exploding with great news. Oh, happy Friday!

The sugar-free — and sugar-filled — shopping sweets SWAG’s really eating up today:

Kiehl’s, brimming with must-have skin care, has set up shop in Tysons Corner Center, level 2. A grand opening celebration is planned for April 24 from 5-8 p.m., benefiting Newsbabes, a breast cancer charity founded by local anchorwomen.

Crystal Boutique in Arlington has begun offering a new loyalty program, CB-Points. Customers will earn one (1) point for each dollar spent on regular price merchandise and two (2) points for each dollar spent at one of the store’s trunk shows. The next trunk show will be Lafayette 148, May 3-19. For every 2,000 CB-Points accumulated a $25 shopping reward is available. 

Crocs, loved by many for the comfort they provide, loathed by many others for what they consider to be disastrous designs, are now available in all sorts of styles, like maxi-ready wedges and boat-ready loafers, you wouldn’t believe were Crocs just by looking at them. Yet they feature the same innards as the original clogs. 

And this weekend Tysons Galleria is hosting Let Them Eat Cake, featuring six of the culinary world’s all stars — including “Top Chef” finalist and co-host of ABC’s “The Chew” Carla Hall of Alchemy by Carla Hall; renowned White House Pastry Chef Roland Mesnier and RAMMY’s Pastry Chef of the Year 2009 Kate Jensen, co-founder of Willow – as judges of a wedding cake competition among the area’s top pastry chefs. Orchestrated by Les Dames d’Escoffier International Washington, D.C. Chapter, the two-day event will raise funds for Les Dames scholarship, grants and education programs.

Perhaps the biggest highlight of the competition, at least in a fashionista’s eyes … At 10 a.m. on Saturday in Tysons Galleria Center Court, chef contestants Marilyn Mueller of terracocoa, Padua Player of Susan Gage Caterers, Leslie Poyourow of Fancy Cakes by Leslie and Laurie Alleman Weber of The Swiss Bakery will begin decorating their cakes in line with new Spring Fashion trends. Judging will begin at 5 p.m. The event is open to the public, so join the fun at Tysons Galleria Center Court  and get inspired, cast your ballot for the Popular Vote competition, enter the raffle for some very sweet prize packages, and sample cakes and Starbucks coffee at the CakeWalk Café. 

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Celebrating Spring, Valerianne to Host First-Ever Color Sale

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, March 22nd, 2012

Hello there, shoppers! 

With all that spring cleaning you’ve been doing, isn’t it about time for a reward? It seems at least one area store is thinking along those lines.

Vienna’s Valerianne is hosting its first-ever Color Sale March 24-April 1. What this means: You can save up to 40 percent off on all in-stock items for atop the bed (duvet covers, pillows, coverlets, shams) and save up to 20 percent on special-order bedtop beauties. 

To take advantage of the exclusive sale, all you have to do is “like” Valerianne on Facebook. 

It looks like we’re all in for some sweet dreams.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

“Jeans Whisperer” Brings Huge Designer Denim Deals to NoVA

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, March 22nd, 2012

Paige Premium Denim "skyline ankle peg," regularly $179, $98 at The Jeans Whisperer, newly opened in Clarendon. (Photo courtesy of The Jeans Whisperer)

Hello there, shoppers! Get ready to read some news that sounds too good to be true, but rest assured this is not an early April Fools prank.

A new store in Clarendon, cleverly named The Jeans Whisperer (3101 Wilson Blvd.), sells designer denim from must-have brands like J Brand, 7 for All Mankind, Joe’s, Paige, William Rast and more for $59-$99! Yes, you read that right.

The store also sells dresses and tops in sizes small to extra large from indie New York and L.A. designers plus locally made jewelry, travel bags and shoes with interchangeable tops from Onesole.

So how did this all come about? Following 18 years as a commercial leasing agent, Jan Forman of Great Falls began taking advantage of a great family connection in New York’s garment district seven years ago and started doing trunk shows and fundraising events at college campuses and vendor shows around the country. Not only was Forman, earning the nickname “the jeans whisperer,” able to offer discounted premium brand jeans, but she found she had a knack for fitting women and putting them in the right pair of jeans.

Building on her success, she added other clothing and accessories to complement the jeans and enjoyed a great deal of success selling those as well. Having eventually tired of traveling, however, Forman decided to open a shop and let her customers come to her, and also make all of her lines available on the store’s website.

There are no words, except Hallelujah! And thank you.

–Natalie Kaar

Swimwear on Sale

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, March 21st, 2012

Trina Turk Mirage Gold Buckle Bikini, $184.50 before 20-percent savings. (Photo: South Moon Under)

Hello there, shoppers!

Like it or loathe it, it’s almost swimsuit season, especially if you’re gearing up for spring break. Fortunately, bargains on suits already abound.

South Moon Under is offering 20 percent off all swimwear through April 9 online with the code SWIM20. Plus, “like” the store on Facebook, and enter to win a Nanette Lepore bikini; use the code SPRING20 online to save 20 percent on purchases worth $150 or more; and try any swimsuit on in store to be entered to win a free one!

Victoria’s Secret is offering up to 40 percent off on 125 different swimsuit styles.

Everything But Water also has over 100 styles on sale.

Neiman Marcus has more than a handful of adorable kids’ swimsuits  discounted 25 percent.

And Gap is offering 20 percent off purchases throughout the day online with the code GAPEVENT.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Thursday Plans: The 13th-Annual Toast to Fashion

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, March 20th, 2012

(PHOTO: The Campagna Center)

Hello there, shoppers!

Spring has sprung, and it’s time to fully embrace spring fashion. What great timing for the 13th-annual Toast to Fashion benefiting The Campagna Center, to take place at Alexandria’s Belle Haven Country Club this Thursday, March 22, from 6:30-10 p.m.

The annual can’t-miss event features a fashion show, marketplace, raffle and cocktail reception with 100 percent of proceeds supporting The Campagna Center’s programs, all which benefit area youths in myriad ways. That’s from early childhood education to tutoring and enrichment programs for elementary and high school kids, including T.C. Williams’ Building Better Futures program, as well as a new adult literacy program, New Neighbors.

ABC7′s Britt McHenry will emcee the fundraiser for the second year in a row, makeup will be provided by Bellacara, and model’s spray tans will be provided by Bronzed Berry. 

Participating vendors in the marketplace:

Tickets will be $60 at the door. Say hello to Northern Virginia Magazine at the event; we’re proud sponsors along with Volkswagen Group of America, Queen Bee Designs, Rich Rosenthal Brincefield Manitta Dzubin & Kroeger and Storm King Strategies.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Sure Things: Cetaphil DERMACONTROL Oil Control Foam Wash

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Monday, March 19th, 2012

Use this new oil-control foam wash with Cetaphil's DERMACONTROL Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 (Photo: Cetaphil)

Hello there, shoppers!

With the summer-like weather we’ve been blessed with lately, not to mention the fact that tomorrow is the first official day of spring, signs everywhere are suggesting we switch up our skin care routines. And that doesn’t mean change moisturizers and, voila, shine-free, blemish-free, supple skin! It all starts with cleansing. And leave it to dermatologist- and beauty enthusiast-loved Cetaphil to come up with a new oil-control face wash that hits the mark: Cetaphil DERMACONTROL Oil Control Face Wash.

First, who doesn’t love a foaming face wash? With a few pumps of this stuff, expect lots of suds — and, unlike many cleansers for oily and acne-prone skin, a noticeable lack of stinging. This may make you think the stuff isn’t strong enough to deep clean and help prevent pimples and shine. Guess again. I’ve been using the wash in the mornings, and even after long walks with my toddler strapped on my back in nearly 80-degree weather, am still shine-free. And, trust me, my T-zone typically gives me all sorts of trouble. 

That brings up another fine point about this new winner from Cetaphil. Even though it works to prevent excess oil from building up in pores, it does’t dry out the parts of the face that typically aren’t as oily, such as the cheeks.

The foam wash was designed to prepare for Cetaphil DERAMACONTROl Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30. I’ve been using the wash with Cetaphil’s Daily Moisturizer SPF 15, and it has still done wonders for my skin.

And at roughly $12, the price isn’t bad either. Here’s just wishing face washes for acne-prone skin will someday smell really nice, but that may be asking for too much. At least the Cetaphil DERMACONTROL Oil Control Foam Wash doesn’t have much if a smell at all as opposed to a very chemical scent.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

DVF for babyGap, GapKids Bouncing in and out of Stores

Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Thursday, March 15th, 2012

Hello there, shoppers!

The wait is over. Well, for some. DVF’s lovely line of spring rompers, dresses, onesies, swimsuits and more for the small set debuted online today, and many sizes and selections are already sold out. That means, mamas, if you want the iconic prints for your kiddos, better act fast and high-tail it to your nearest mall. Or log on to eBay later.

If you don’t make it there in time, at least the store is packed with plenty of other to-die-for selections. Too many.

Good luck!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. In brighter news, Gap’s sister brand Athleta is opening a store at Reston Town Center soon, according to Reston Patch.

Hump Day Shopping Headlines

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, March 14th, 2012

Spring stunners at Old Town's Diva (Photo: Specialicious.com)

Hello there, shoppers!

Heading out to happy hour tonight — imbibing alfresco, anyone? — and wanting to prepare for what are sure to be tonight’s hottest topics? When it comes to the shopping world, here’s the news, mad and marvelous, you need to know now.

First, last night brought the highly anticipated premiere of NBC’s “Fashion Star,” hosted by Elle Macpherson and starring Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and John Varvatos as mentors to designers given the opportunity to present their creations to buyers from Macy’s, Saks and H&M. Buyer-chosen items are made available for purchase online the night of the show and in select stores the next day. And like any good reality TV competition, especially one involving fashion, there were moments that left everyone in awe. (Word to the wise: Don’t mess with Jessica Simpson.) But the real shock came when Saks announced the price of a clever zip-away-overlay skirt designed by Orly Shani: a whopping $350 for a skirt that many, myself included, predicted would be purchased by H&M instead. At any  rate, guess there wasn’t too much sticker shock. The skirt is already sold out. Same goes for the teal dress H&M purchased; the winning men’s jacket, however, is still available. As for the designs picked up by Macy’s last night, better news: As of 10 a.m. today, all three are still available. 

This morning brings an alert from the FDA about beauty products that could be poisonous — a warning about skin lighteners and anti-aging products that may contain mercury. Also in FDA news: a discussion of “Spanx Syndrome.” Yes, those Spanx. The article suggests they could be doing harm to your system as they help you look svelte. 

Tomorrow, March 15, is a huge day for fashionable mom shoppers: DVF for GapKids finally hits stores!

We’re just over a month away from the Alberta Ferretti Impulse collection at Macy’s. There’s a special preview in the April issue of InStyle–amazing!

And did you see the fashionista-approved deals on Specialicious this week? How about major discounts at Misguided Angels in Ashburn and Diva in Old Town Alexandria?!

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Stellar Weather, Stellar Shops, Stellar Sales

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, March 13th, 2012

One of the spring Undeniable Boutique stunners (Photo: facebook.com/undeniableboutique)

Hello there, shoppers! As if this week were calling for improvement with all of this amazing weather, local shops are offering all kinds of can’t-miss deals on marvelous spring merchandise.

A few examples:

Today, Imperfections (1210 King St.) in Old Town Alexandria is offering 15 percent off all garden accessories. Similarly in Old Town, Arts Afire is offering 10 percent off Majolica pots. That is to those of you who receive the Old Town Boutique District emails.

But there are even more deals to delight you along those cobbled streets this week: The Little Monogram shop is offering 25 percent off Embellish Your Story products throughout the month; this weekend spring fever is heading to Treat where you can save up to 30 percent Friday through Sunday; and Vintage Mirage is having a moving sale (the store is moving to a new Old Town location soon) with 15 percent off all regular-priced jewelry and accessories plus 20 percent off all clothing. 

In search of baubles and live/work further to the west? Undeniable Boutique at Fairfax Corner is hosting a Stella & Dot trunk show tomorrow, March 14, starting at 2 p.m. And we’ve already seen some of their amazing new apparel in stock. 

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Fun Finds: RingStix

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Monday, March 12th, 2012

Hello there, shoppers!

While springing forward may have taken a little spring out of your step, SWAG’s guessing this week’s weather forecast has you bouncing off the walls with anticipation. That is if you’ve had time to come down from yesterday’s cloudless sky and mild temps. Glorious!

Fact is there is no amount of pollen to keep an active Northern Virginian indoors when Mother Nature is otherwise being one sweet mama. So it’s definitely time to overhaul the ol’ lawn games arsenal. Ready for a real winner? While corn hole isn’t going anywhere, how about throwing some swords into the situation?

Enter RingStix, a new lawn game ($49.99-$34.99) “for ages 10-100,” featuring “stix,” or swords, that are used to toss rings back and forth. The company claims you can hurl the rings 50 yards, and still manage with up to 25 mph winds. Simple? yes. Guaranteed to bring laughs? Yes. Floatable? Yes. Glow-in-the-dark options? Yes. Really, can one ask for more of a lawn/pool game? Well, maybe a beverage holster … but it looks like you won’t mind not having one. 

Have fun!

–Natalie Kaar