Travelogue: Beacon Hill Wanderlust

One of my good friends Liz invited me out to Beacon Hill for brunch while I was in Boston last weekend.  Located right below Boston Common, Beacon Hill is one of Boston's most historic neighborhoods dating back to the 1600's and home to Louisa May Alcott, Robert Frost, and the more recent Tom Brady/Gisele Bundchen.  Now lined with boutiques and restaurants, the neighborhood today has an old English charm to it, making it probably one of the most picture perfect destinations for Christmas shopping.

The bad news to Beacon Hill:  finding a place to park is awful, especially with the Christmas season. The great news:  even though I parked far away from the restaurant, this meant blocks worth of exploring along the way.  

Top:  Beacon Hill on Charles St.; Left:  North River Outfitters (NRO); Right:  Cards at Black Ink.

After brunch, Liz and I managed to browse through a couple shops before I rushed off to the airport.  I think my two favorite picks (although the choice was hard given that everything was beautiful, adorable or both simultaneously) were North River Outfitters (NRO at 112 Revere St., Boston, MA) and Black Ink (at 101 Charles St., Boston, MA).  

NRO showcased mens and womens fashions, with a classic New England vibe with brands like Tory Burch, Lilly Pulitzer and Patagonia.  The decor was impeccable, resembling a 1950's smoke room.  My absolute favorite had to be Black Ink. I'm a sucker for a lot of things, but if I had to pinpoint one completely useless thing that I love it's got to be stationary.  Black Ink had an array of random knick knacks like board games and kimono thermoses.  Its greatest ware are its collection of one-of-a-kind cards, with everything from beautiful calligraphy to the odd ones like a James Franco card I managed to snag.

What do you think lovelies?  Does Beacon Hill sound awesome? I particularly have been hung up Googling engagement sessions at Beacon Hill... ignore that.  Holler at your girl down below!

Travelogue: City Shopping in Historic Boston

Once, not too long ago, I posted a blog about Boston somewhere on the aging crevices on the Internet under the misappropriated title "I Think I'll Go to Boston."  Unfortunately, I was a dirty liar and went to a nearby suburb instead.  This time around, JZ challenged me to see the real Boston, as dear man of mine is a Boston native.  Of course, our expedition was not with out it's fair share of exploring the local shops and scenes around town.  After an obligatory visit to Newberry St. and Copley Square (the city's go-to shopping corridor), we stopped by Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market for the holiday and historical sights.

View of Quincy Market from the base of Fanueil Hall

I'm in love with colonial American history.  So to walk through a 21st century mall in a 18th century setting was quite the treat, as the sides were lined with gift shops and clothiers like Banana Republic, Orvis, and Gap.  If you manage to get out there, make sure you take a walk through Quincy Market, which is Boston's equivalent to Seattle's Pike's Place or New York's Chelsea Markets.  The long building is an extended hallway filled with Asian food, chowder stalls, and Italian cannoli stands left and right.  Not to mention, if you're in the center rotunda, there's a beautiful staircase that leads to some amazing little nooks where you can eat.

Flanking the marketplace and in Faneuil Hall next door, there are some great little souvenir shops and carts with everything ranging from colonial themed snacks to kitty cat socks.  I think my favorite had to be the original Cheers gift shop down in the basement of Quincy Market... because I'm clearly a sucker for old pop culture.  Although the kitty cat socks were quite tempting, we didn't come away with anything in particular other than a nice Banana Republic scarf for JZ.

All in all, it was a great way to spend a winter afternoon.  What do you think lovelies?  Think it's worth a shot to visit?  Think I need to take better pictures?  Got any other Boston recommendations?  Sound off below!

Deals & Steals: The Day After Edition

Peace on Earth and good will to men!  Welcome back to your sporadic edition of Deals and Steals.  If you're anything like me and enjoy noticing the trend in retail pricing marketing over the last month, then this might be the post for you.  You might also be like me and have problems.  If not, then snuggle up with your glass of eggnog by a roaring fire and check out these deals before braving the cold tonight or tomorrow at the stores.  Check out these picks of the litter... since everywhere will be having a sale tomorrow...

Shoshanna Beaded Bridgette Dress - $161.70; Club Monaco Zar Box Clutch - $60.50; Cusp by Neiman Marcus John & Jenn Faux Leather Jacket - $123.00; Bloomingdales Aqua Drop Earrings - $28.50; Sephora Philosphy Grace Wardrobe Gift Set - $31.20

• Bloomingdales - Up to 75% off sale merchandise, plus extra 30% off the handbag sale and extra 20% on overall purchase.
• Club Monaco - Extra 50% off of sale items with code SAVE50 online and in stores.
• Cusp by Neiman Marcus - Up to 60% off plus an additional 25% - 30% off.
• Forever 21 - Extra 30% off sale, ends 1/2.
• H&M - Day after Christmas Sale, items as low as $5 with scratch card savings, stores open 8 AM.  
• Jewel Mint - Get 70% off of your first piece with code HURRAY.
• Madewell - Extra 30% off with code BYEBYE.
• Kate Spade - Extra 25% off of all sale items with code 25SALE before 12/26.
• Neiman Marcus - Extra 25% - 33% off of select items, and up to 60% off of items.
• Piperlime - Lime Tag Sale, up to 50% off marked merchandise.
• Saks Fifth Avenue - Up to 70% off designer sale items.
• Sephora - 20% off of already marked sale items online and in stores.
• Shoshanna - Extra 30% off sale items with code Tinsel20 online only through 12/30.
• Target - Extra 50% off holiday decor and clothing on sale, including the Neiman Marcus + Target collaboration.
• Tibi - Extra 25% off sale items with code CHEER25, plus extra 20% if you register online at Tibi.com, ends 12/26.
• Zara - Semi annual sale

Merry Christmas

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and happy holidays.

Travelogue: At the Union Square Christmas Market

It's Christmas time!   I've been going back and forth as to how to start this post off, and that apparent statement seems to be the only one that gets the point across.  The point that it is indeed the holidays, so get out of work, get yourself in a cozy couch and drink some hot chocolate while listening to the smooth sound of Boyz 2 Men.... because in my mind nothing says the holidays like 90's Christmas songs. A couple of weeks ago, JZ and I meandered over to the Union Square Holiday Market over in the Flatiron District in New York City.

The Christmas Market is the offspring of Urban Space NYC which puts on a variety of outdoor events throughout the year all across the city, such as Madison Square Eats, the Columbus Square Christmas Market, or the Bryant Park Christmas Market.  Vendors range from ornament distributors to fresh Greek food to Brooklyn Charm's make your own jewelry booth.  While I can go on talking about how amazing it is, I think the pictures speak for themselves.  Click the next page to check them out.

Travelogue: Holiday Blow Out at NYC DryBar

Man of mine (aka, one Mr. JZ) graciously allowed me to be his date for his office holiday party in the city that never sleeps last week.  Like any good semi-stylish and transient girlfriend with a gift card in tow, I ventured off into Midtown to the original New York DryBar at the Parker Meridien to get my hair done.  Humorously enough, Man of Mine wanted to tag along too, but then stopped short of the Parker Meridien's doors and decided to set up shop there instead.  No lie, I've been excited about this appointment for a while -- boyfriend or no boyfriend.  Being of the sort-of stiff Asian hair variety, my head doesn't rear itself around any orientation other than straight or out-of-bed-hair.  As such, it was pretty impressing to see something different.

Front desk and waiting area at DryBar Parker Meridien in New York City.

After being 10 minutes late, DryBar managed to hold my appointment, which was great because I looked like a hot rain-soaked mess.  My stylist was this lovely individual named Sean, whose hair resembled a Mardi Gras parade (and I mean that in the most awesome way possible) and wore the keenest handlebar mustache.  We bonded over the awkward nature of "polite chit chat" and cackled like old friends as he washed my hair with what I assumed to be Morrocan oil shampoo (?).

Click the next page to read more about the experience and see the final result.  It's a before and after picture, like Jared in the Subway commercials only a bit more flattering.  I stress "a bit."  Long story short, just click the next page.

Deals & Steals 12/4 to 12/11

• American Apparel - $5 Blow Out Sale, select items on sale for $5 each
• Ann Taylor Loft - 50% off sweaters and tops.
• Banana Republic - Extra 30% off bags, accessories and more with code BRJOY30, ends today.
• Barney's New York - Fall Sale, up to 40% off.
• Bloomingdales - Extra 25% off online purchase with code BMERRY.
• Fabrik - Extra 30% off all merchandise, ends 12/9.
• INPINK - 50% off with Pink Perks, ends 12/7.
• H&M - In Store Sale.
• J. Crew - 30% off winter wear, ends 12/5.
• Macy's - One Day Sale, on 12/5.
• Modcloth - Extra 30% off party dresses, ends 12/6.
• Neiman Marcus - Up to 50% off new items, ends 12/6
• Ralph Lauren - Up to 50% off select styles, in store and online, ends 12/19.
• Saks Fifth Avenue - 40% off select designer items, ends 

The Sample Sale Challenge II: The Forgive & Regret List

In the however many months I've been traipsing back and forth between home and New York, I've come to develop a list of retail experiences that I would not even wish to befall on my worst enemy. Hell on Earth scenarios are what I like to call them, which may be greatly exaggerated but at the very least to the point. Take, for example, the sample sale. A fantastic place to find good quality and priced items, but with the high chance of resembling a Walmart at midnight on Black Friday... only in smaller confines with more people in sharper objects (curse you incredibly attractive leather stiletto boot trend!).  This time in tow I came with a forgive-and-regret list -- a list of all the sales I've been to and swore I'd never go to again, yet at this point am willing to reconsider, along with 4-5 other handpicked sales.

Coat and Jewelry Racks at the J. Crew Sample Sale

Case in point, the Rag and Bone and J. Crew sales of yore. Before, the lines were spilling out of the windows, the merchandise was overpriced and under quality, and the aisles resembled trenches (mind you, trenches of fashion). As expressed in this previous post, Rag and Bone was definitely out, but J. Crew managed to stay on the list out of purely because they were restocking.  Hence, the challenge:

Is a crazy sale really worth forgiving?

To read more of the ordeal, click the next page.  It's got pretty pictures of shoes, I swear.  Click!

Travelogue: Home Sweet Hotel

After a week and a half of the comforts of my apartment and stuffing my face full of home-cooked Chinese food, I'm on the road again in New Hampshire.  Frankly speaking, going from 70-degree afternoons in Atlanta to freezing cold nights in Portsmouth isn't desirable.  Nor is living out of a suitcase really, but it's a bit lovely to see in my 4-hotel tour of the township of Portsmouth what places do to make you feel at home.  Hence, if you ever find yourself in a hotel in the Northeast for an long period of time and love free tchotchkes, the Sheraton Harborside Portsmouth isn't a bad place to go.

Imagine my surprise to find a lovely, mystery box in my room.  Perfectly enough, I opened the box right before my usual "I'm tired and I don't want to go outside" jaunt to find free food in the club lounge.  Inside was a treasure trove of random Northeasterner-related snacks.  Yes, I'm on a diet, but then again, I'm not one to complain about free food.

In any case, happy holidays!  May your hearts be merry and your bellies be filled with delicious food!

Deals & Steals 11/21 - 11/28 Black Friday Edition

Alright there, insanity.  I see you coming.  I've been putting off this post for a while, trying to judge how to efficiently present these too you.  Point blank, it's too much.  It's so much.  Not to mention, every website is posting a sale, every new email comes with something missing from the websites, so on and so forth.  It's like a job in and of itself.  At this point, you're probably thinking, "Enough bibble-babble, Vivian, just take me to the sales."  Well then, without further ado, here are links to tens and even hundreds of sales in the form of guides released by Racked, Refinery, the Cut and more.  Why?  Because I looked for them, so you wouldn't have to.

Enjoy and happy Turkey day, ya'll!

• The Cut:  Complete Black Friday Guide
• Daily Candy:  November Sample Sales
• Racked:  87 Massive Black Friday Sales
• Refinery 29:  18 Cyber Monday Sales

I'll be posting up my picks of the litter later tonight.  Happy browsing!

Travel 101: 5 Drugstore Staples to Live by

The holidays are fast approaching this week, and as such hundreds, thousands, and millions of people will be packing into their cars, buses, trains and planes to make it home for the holidays.  More likely than not, you probably will need to stop by your local drug store or grocery store for a supply or two.  Here's a list of some things that never leave my suitcase when I'm on the road:

NEUTROGENA MAKE UP REMOVER CLEANSING TOWLETTES:

I'm a huge fan of these as a form of make up remover.  Not only do they eliminate the need for liquid make up removers and cotton pads, but they're small, portable, and effective.  One towelette can clean up your entire face, and remove even the most water proof of eye make up.  These should complement your daily skin care routine, and not rid of it.  As such, use it before you use your face wash as an added level of facial clean.  I'm a big fan of the night cleansing variety which smells a little like lavender.

OLAY COMPLETE ALL DAY MOISTURIZER:
Yes, I spelled "moisturizer" wrong in the graphic... but I'm also too lazy to open up Photoshop again and fix it.  What I'm NOT too lazy to do is moisturize.  Every beauty magazine or dermatologist will tell you that the secret to great skin is a good moisturizer with SPF.  I have sensitive combination oily/dry skin so finding a good one is a bit of a task.  Fortunately, my dermatologist recommended pretty much everything from Olay's skincare line, and this has been the first and only thing that's worked on me.  Put it on when you wake up in the morning and before you go to sleep at night, and you'll have great, tight skin to last you through the day.

REVLON TRUE PRECISION STEEL TWEEZERS:
A good pair of tweezers can come with a myriad of different uses for them.  You can use it to open plastic wrap on something you've bought, opening it up a stuck battery compartment, and heck... as a beauty tool.  For me, the sharper and more precise the tweezer, the better.  Revlon makes  a great sharp tip tweezer that's helped me get rid of the tiniest of hairs, and comes with a plastic cap to make sure the tip stays sharp.

ALTOID SMALLS:
Historically, I'm a notorious gum chewer, but ever since a stick of gum fell into one of my purses and damaged the interior, I've tried my best to keep away from it.  Fortunately for me, these have been my latest go-to when it comes to fresh breath.  It's about 2.5 inches by 1.5 inches, and you can put it everywhere.  I've got a pack in my car, a pack in my purse, and a pack in my work bag.  Did I also mention, that they're curiously strong?

MAKE UP BRUSHES FROM DUANE READE:
This is probably the hardest to find of the items, given that Duane Reade is a NY/NJ limited drug store. Fortunately, Duane Reade is starting a trend with their make up counter the "Look" boutique, so who knows where this can go?  (I think CVS has started their own beauty club?).  In any case, I'm a cheap skate when it comes to everything besides the actual make up.  As such, you probably won't see any make up tools over $25 in my bag.  I've seen some terrible brushes (i.e. anything from Target and CVS), but my hands down favorite has got to be Duane Reade's.  Their selection of brushes are affordable, and they don't shed.  The coverage on them is amazing as well.  It's an item constantly on my list to restock whenever I'm in New York... as such, if you ever get a chance, go grab yourself one or two or three!

What do you think?  What are some of your drugstore staples?  Holler at your girl down below!

New Additions: Bracelets from INPINK

A couple weeks ago, I won a $30 gift certificate from fellow blogger, Bedknobs & Baubles, from INPINK jewelry.  Naturally being a lover of free things and deals, I obliged.  INPINK is an up and coming online jewelry retailer, host to a wide variety of fashionable basic and costume pieces for great prices.  Variety is the key word here.  Seriously, the range of styles is as wide as the Equator... forgive me, that simile embarrasses me too...  

Bracelets courtesy of INPINK.

In all honesty, I've been wandering around the site for a while, trying to find the right time to buy.  For a constant traveler, I'm not much of an online shopper.  I found two items that struck my eye (the Gold Tone Hammer Stretch cuff and the Purple Pave Beads Drawstring bracelet).  When I came home on Thursday, it was like Christmas day at the Viv-Kath household.  The final package was surprisingly impressive.  I mean, firstly, who packages a regular online order like this?  That's real beads and wrapping for free, folks.  Not to mention, came a plethora of scrunchy confetti in the box.  Would it be wrong if I called it a party in a box?

As per my love of all things friendship bracelet related, I fell in love with the purple drawstring bracelet.  The gold plated cuff proved to be a great early Christmas present for Kathryn, as her eyes twinkled as I handed it over for her... so much for a full Christmas tree this holiday season at our apartment.  In any case, it's the start to a happy weekend at home.

What do you think readers?  Sparkly enough?  Worth a look-see?  Find anything you like?  Share with me!  I'm at home and need some more pretty things to look at!  As always, holler at your girl down below.

Deals & Steals 11/6 - 11/13: Election Edition

Did you vote today?  I did not... because I voted last week!  Not to be imparting any sentiment or what not, but you should vote!  If you didn't and couldn't, you can still register for next year, for fear of the severe public shaming I will give you if you have the opportunity and do not!  I don't care if you're red, blue or green, it's a civic duty!  Uphold that thing!

Banana Reupblic Chain Link Scarf $41 without discount; Tory Burch Logo iPhone Case $34; Native Union  Pop Phone $70; Rugby by Ralph Lauren Dark Wash Jeggings $65.

(ignore me, I have drank and ate to my heart's content tonight)

On to the sales!  Since election day is almost over, there's a bunch you can probably try to find before midnight tonight.  Here are just a taste.  As well, the world of sample sales and such are alive and well, since Racked has posted their list of November sample sales.  Peruse and enjoy, chickadees.

(did I mention I've been drinking a bit... listening to a whole lot of Lana del Rey and Taylor Swift?)

Online & In Store

• Anthropologie - 30% off select items in furniture and clothing.
• Ann Taylor - 30% off everything.
• Banana Republic - 30% off purchases of $125 or more with the code BRELECT30, ends 11/6 midnight.
• Bloomingdales - Designer Sale, 25-40% off select merchandise, ends 11/11.
• J. Crew - 25% off merchandise in store and online, ends 11/8.
• Last Call by Neiman Marcus - Up to 50% off on online merchandise, ends 11/7.
• Madewell - 25% off sale styles with code YIPPEE, ends 11/6
• Neiman Marcus - First Call Sale in store & online, up to 50% off, ends 11/13.
• Nordstrom - Half Yearly Sale, 40% off select merchandise, ends 11/11.
• Old Navy - 25% off any purchase with code ONTAKE25, ends 11/7.
• Rugby by Ralph Lauren - Insider Sale, 40% off fall styles in store and online, ends 11/7
• The Outnet - 80-85% off designer labels with registration, ends 11/13.

What do you think lovelies?  Worth the trouble?  What's on your Election Night playlist?

Lookbook: Last Rites of Autumn

Firstly, it is COLD right now in New Hampshire.  Seriously, I'm so wishing I was back in Atlanta like I was last week, because 70 degree weather beats 30 degree weather any day.  As such, usually I am incredibly lazy and self conscious about actually posting up pictures that could constitute as a "fashionable."  Then again, because nothing says you've been stuck at home all last week like forcing your roommate to take pictures of you prancing around HomeGoods, I was otherwise bored and obliged.  Thanks Kathryn!

Banana Republic black leather bag (old - similar); Madewell painted pleated mini; Banana Republic Knit Boyfriend Sweater (old); J. Crew Factory sleeveless popover blouse; J. Crew Factory statement necklace (old - similar); Tory Burch Caroline Ballet Flat (similar)

Alright, there's reason for the sheer ridiculousness of taking photos inside a HomeGoods, other than my sheer love for the store.  While Atlanta was a picture of the last remnants of Indian summer with its warm temperatures and cloudless skies, the one point I decided to venture outside of my apartment marked the only time the weather decided to rain.  There were two plus sides to being back home this week.  For one thing, I've finally been able to fully unpack since moving to my new apartment.  As such, I've been able to rediscover all these old things in the back of my closet, like this amazing leather bag from Banana Republic.  Two, I get to actually "live" in Atlanta, a feat that hasn't been accomplished since July.

I paired some old pieces like this cardigan from Banana Republic with my newly acquired flats from Tory Burch (which I swear cost an arm and a leg) with a mini skirt from Madewell.  Topping it off, I added my two go-to work pieces from J. Crew Factory.  Unfortunately, shilling too much money on clothes meant I could only go with the bare necessities on our HomeGoods trip.  Alas, at least we'll always have these pictures to show for it.  Ridiculous.

What do you think readers?  Ever do a impromptu photo shoot at a discount home goods store?   No?  I really recommend it if you want to get some laughs ever.  What?  Oh, well, what do you think of the outfit?  Holler at your girl if you want to judge, admire or express your mutual love for home decor or the suburbs.

Deals, Steals, & Indoor Diversions 11/1 - 11/7

The last few days have been horrendous.  I've been wanting to blog, primarily because I've been working from home this week due to being displaced by Hurricane Sandy, but unfortunately, work responsibility and figuring out where the hell my best friend, my sister, and my boyfriend kind of took precedence over JET.SET.GO.  Looks like this jetsetter is going to be landlocked for a little bit to say the least.  I'm happy to say that I finally got in contact with all three by this morning.  My heart pours out for those in the hurricane-affected areas, especially having it hit so close to home.  It's crazy to think that a week ago, New York was so sunny and bright like this.  I'm only posting a couple sales that I've seen around.  It appears Sandy's caused a bit of a snafu as far as deals go, but I've also posted a couple of diversions as well as a plea to give back!  Give back, ya'll!

Online & In-Store

• Anthropologie - 30% off fall furniture, 
• Banana Republic - The Anna Karenina Event, 25%-35% full priced items in store and online, on 11/1.
• Last Call by Neiman Marcus - Up to 50% off on online merchandise, ends 11/7.
• Madewell - Extra 25% off sale merchandise online with the code YIPPEE, and extra 30% off sale merchandise in store, ends 11/4.
• Neiman Marcus - Presale event in store

Diversions

• Ways you can help Hurricane Sandy Relief at New York Magazine
• Garance Dore on how to shop at Zara.
• Mini fashionistas Bryan Boy, Man Repeller, and Rachel Zoe on the Coveteur's new relaunch ad.
• Cat Bounce!  Your new favorite addiction.

Enjoy.

Eats & Treats: Rainy Day Afternoon Brunch at West Egg

It appears I'm stuck in Atlanta for the week, due to Hurricane Sandy ravaging the Northeast.  As such, it's a sweatshirt, hipster glass, rainbow shorts wearing kind of day while I sit on my kitchen table and ponder when is a good time to fix lunch.  It's 4:44 PM.  Hence, blogging and catching up on Gossip Girl seems to win ahead of making food.  While today appears sunny and cloudless from my window (this girl still has to work), Atlanta faced the lesser brunt of Sandy yesterday with strong winds, cold weather and misty skies.  One of my best girl friends from college Kyra was in town for our alma mater's homecoming game.  To commemorate her return, we brunched at one of the greatest Sunday Atlanta establishments of the last decade, West Egg Cafe.

Left to Right:  Coca Cola Cupcakes, Red Velvet Cupcakes, Oreo Cake & Pecan Pie; Banana Pudding

Located at the recently gentrified west side of Midtown at West Foundry Provisions, West Egg is not an easy miss on weekend mornings with a line ebbing out into the rest of the shopping center.  And naturally so. Any meal at West Egg combines southern comfort food with an East Village charm.  If you're looking home style breakfast and are willing to wait upwards of an hour and a half, then this is your place.  Like most Sunday mornings here, the scene was packed into the bakery and cafe area with Atlanta's fair share of fashionistas and hipsters, avoiding the chill.

West Egg Cafe at 1100 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, GA

To read more, click to the next page!

Travelogue: Musings on a Sunday in SoHo

At this point, I can probably go around traipsing like I'm a real New Yorker -- whatever that means.  I'm a fake New Yorker.  It's been a while since I've been back in this fair city.  So much so, that I acted like a deer in the headlights the moment I hoped into the taxi from the airport as my usual address slowly came back to me.  For a moment, I forgot where JZ lived, which would have in turn made for a homeless start to the weekend.  Fortunately, the ease and knowledge of the city crept back like the feeling in your fingertips when you just wake up.  It's like riding a bicycle.  Only, that bicycle is more like a state of mind.

Outdoor Market at Prince St. in SoHo; Manhattan Map cuffs.

Closing a successful weekend of rooftop welcome-back parties (aw shucks, you shouldn't have) and eating my feelings (bloat), we took one of my good girlfriends from home out to a New York Sunday brunch.  Given this is New York on a Sunday and us being early 20-somethings, no one showed up on time.  Not a single person.  This fortunately gave way to some exploration through right south of Houston St., or what you may know as the neighborhood of SoHo.  Yes, glorious SoHo.  The land of designer/hipster boutiques and where I assume pretty, famous people go to buy their goods.

While there were no pretty, famous people to be found, we did manage to stumble upon some amazing little shops and a street market on the way to the Tumi store to replace this monstrosity:  see "monstrosity."  For further elaboration of what we found, click the next page.  Click!  It's something interesting, I swear!

Deals & Steals 10/22 to 10/29

Here's the way I see it, by posting these sales, I'm helping spur retail sales by other people.  By helping spur retail sales by other, I'm helping improve the economy?  Nonsensical pish-posh, I know, but one, I'm in a political mood and two, this is what I happen to tell myself when I rock myself at night knowing that I can't spend too much money this month.  Then again, that promise never actually comes to pass.

Club Monaco Celine Cropped Parka, Anthropologie Onyx Scalloped Blouse; J. Crew Edie Calf Hair Wallet; Jewel Mint High Noon Necklace

In-Store

• Anthropologie - 25% off all sale clothing
• Ann Taylor - up to 60% off original prices
• Bloomingdales - 25% to 50% select sale merchandise, ends 10/28.

Online

• Anthropologie - 25% off all sale clothing.
• Ann Taylor - up to 60% off original prices
• Bloomingdales - 25% to 50% select sale merchandise, ends 10/28.
• Forever 21 - 50% off select outerwear
• J. Crew - Extra 30% off sale items, ends 10/26
• Jewel Mint - $15 off your first piece of jewelry with code JMFALL15
• Lord & Taylor - 25% of select merchandise and 10% off cosmetics with the code FRIENDS, ends 10/23
• Tory Burch - Private Sale, up to 60% off merchandise.

New York - Sales

• Club Monaco - Sample Sale, prices below $65 for apparel, 10/23 - 10/25, 261 W. 36th St. between 7th and 8th Ave.
• YSL - Sample Sale, bags, heels and apparel on sale, 317 W. 33rd St., between 8th and 9th Ave, 10/23 to 10/25
• Zadig & Voltaire - Sample Sale, up to 80% off apparel, 260 Fifth Ave., between 28th and 29th St, 10/25 to 10/28

Deals, Steals, & an Early Christmas Wish List

The good news?  I'm going to New York this Friday!  The bad news?  By the time I get there, most of the sample sales are almost done or picked over, which is terribly unfortunate since I've been gunning for new work clothes for a while.  There is a silver lining however.  Along with your usual rundown of sales and deals going on for this week, Target's blog "A Bullseye View" just released preview photos of their latest collaboration with Neiman Marcus.  First off, what?  Target has a blog.  Yes, I'm surprised too, darling.  Two, Neiman Marcus?  That's amazing.  Why yes, I agree as you probably tell by my deep obsession.  Target is working with designers like Jason Wu, Diane von Furstenberg, Lela Rose, Tracy Reese, Marc Jacobs and heaps of other designers in designing everything from Rodarte gift wrap to Oscar de la Renta dog bowls.

Left to right, Top to bottom:  Neiman Marcus for Target Rodarte Christmas Ornament, DVF Jewelry Box, Tracy Reese Sequin Blouse, Rag + Bone Flask, Lela Rose Dress

You can read more at A Bullseye View here.  The collection is supposed to be released to Target on December 1st, and I could not be any more excited.  I'm in love with the Rodarte Christmas ornaments and the Lela Rose dress.  Not to mention, the Rag & Bone flask would make a great gift for any special gentleman.  Maybe it's a good thing I'm not shopping too much this weekend after all?

Oh well, click the next page for a taste of what's going on in the sale world today.  I'll probably add more as the week progresses or if things turn up.  There aren't terribly much as far, but I'm sure with some digging starting Thursday, there will be much more.

Travelogue: A Champagne Wedding Day

Much to the point of mockery from some of my friends (and even a bit of point of avoidance by a certain someone -- I jest), I love weddings.  Then again, it's probably the Disney princess in me talking, but I love the dresses, the decorations, the flowers, the mustaches on sticks, lit up mason jars,and photobooths... alright, scratch that, I love a good hipster wedding.  While it wasn't quite that hipster, my cousin played bride to a gorgeous wedding at the B.R. Cohn winery in Sonoma Valley California.  For the sake of respecting their privacy and that I want to watch the debate, I'm just going to post some pictures of some knick-knacks from the wedding that I particularly enjoyed.  Enjoy the pretty, fall romance of it all.

BR Cohn Winery

Travelogue: Adventures in Hipstergram

Starting earlier this week, I'm going to be away from home for three weeks.  Of course, there's the obligatory trips to New Hampshire for work, but I'll be headed to California, Boston and then New York before the month's end.  Part of me is thinking it's about time since I haven't been outside of my normal routine for more than a month now.  Then again, I could use another weekend living in my own apartment.  It also didn't hurt that last weekend was my birthday.  In any case, here are some super hipster pictures made even more super hipster from Instagram from what could have been deemed a super hipster weekend that consisted of the Neiman Marcus Sale, a birthday plane ride courtesy of my friend Salvador, and a coincidentally stumbled upon food truck fair in the hipster part of Atlanta (Inman Park).  Oh, did I relish in it...

Left to Right, Top to Bottom:  (1) J. Crew Factory Camp Shirt and Joe Jeans; (2) Black Vince Sheath Dress at Neiman Marcus; (3) View of Spaghetti Junction on Sal's plane; (4) Work dress line-up at the Neiman Marcus sale; (5) My friend Eric and I looking chic in our air-wear; (6) Filipino street food and bubble tea from FlipOne; (7) Hello Kitty band-aids; (8) Inman Park's "Atlanta Streets Alive" festival; (9) View from the plane of Lake Lanier Islands

To check out my of my hipstergrams (if you are at all interested, which I'm guessing you're not), check out my Instagrid.  Also, if you have any good recommendations for places to check out in NorCal, Boston, or New York, let me know.  I'm all ears.  Holler at your girl down below in the comments!

Weekly Deals and Steals 10/6 - 10/12

I know, I know.  Technically, the window of shopportunity (yes, that's a pun and yes, I'm ashamed I just pulled that one) has not ended since the last post, but there are way too many deals going on for me to be silent. Alright, well, not terribly many, but some really good deals if you search hard.  I think the best I've seen is Ann Taylor Loft's jewelry selection, with earrings and necklaces as low as $12.  Check it out.

Online

• Ann Taylor - Extra 25% off sale items
• Ann Taylor Loft - Extra 50% off sale items
• C Wonder - Extra 50% off sale items
• French Connection - 25% off any purchase with code AW12CD, ends 10/8
• Neiman Marcus - 40-65% off sale items, with 10% off two select sale items and 20% off three or more select sale items, ends 10/9
• Tory Burch - Extra 25% off with the code TBFRIENDS, ends 10/8

In-Store

• Madewell - Extra 25% off sale items, ends 10/8
• J. Crew Factor - Extra 40% off pants at J. Crew Factory stores

Travelogue: Inside the Spanish Shopping Scene

In retrospect, I realize that writing about a 10-day trip chronologically more than a month after the trip occurred can get a bit strained.  One, because I never had very good memory to begin with.  Two, because it's almost October so what really is the point to talk about summer clothing when the leaves are changing colors and the days become shorter?  As such, why not change how to approach the situation and jump around by what's most interesting.  As a mentor in the paper biz once told me (yes, college newspaper now officially counts as "the biz"), "write about what you know and what you love... the rest will flow from there."  As evidenced by about 70% of this blog, you know what I'm talking about.

Zagora in the Alfalfa neighborhood of Sevilla.

About seven days into the trip, we finally had some time to do some real-honest-to-blog shopping in Sevilla, which is this gorgeous, romantic city in the south of Spain.  Known primarily for its winding roads and beautiful Islamic-influenced architecture, Sevilla also had quite the shopping district, almost unmarred by the pickpocketers and riff-raff commonly found in other major European cities.  While wandering through the streets of Sevilla, you can encounter any standard international brand like Zara, H&M, and MANGO, but I think my favorite part was finding little gems like the ones in the Alfalfa neighborhood of Sevilla.

Inside of Zagora

Zagora had to be one of my favorite picks as far as small independent shops go in Sevilla.  Filled with enough vibrant fascinators to make Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice a little jealous.  Not to mention, the dresses had a fun Anthropologie style to them, and were rather nicely priced at about 40-60 euros a piece.  My favorite had to be the tote bags on the right, straight from Japan.

I've got more where that came from.  Looking for the Spanish version of Zara or Mango?  Wait... Zara and Mango are already Spanish?  Darn, well, I've got some more.  Just click the next page.

Weekly Deals & Steals 9/30 to 10/07

Looks like I dropped the ball a little bit on this post.  It's been a busy weekend, ya'll.  What with moving, reclaiming my social status at home, managing through the 5-car wreckage of an Outlook calendar at work on Friday...  A girl can get exhausted.  In the midst of all that, there is a small glimmer of hope that I'll actually be able to do some real shopping (for work clothes, boo) this afternoon.  Fingers crossed.  To make up for it, I'll give you the low-down on the near-ending sales and some ones that might be coming up in the next two weeks (again, sorry, boo).

Some choice steals for the weekend and into the next week definitely at Bloomingdales.  I loved the tech accessories they had for sale like their tablet and laptop cases from Marc Jacobs and Rebecca Minkoff.  Definitely worth taking a look.

Tibi Diamond Jacquard Circle Skirt at $269.50; Marc by Marc Jacobs Dreamy Logo Neoprene Tablet Case at $40.60 without the extra 20% off at Bloomingdales

Online

• Bloomingdales - Extra 20% off regular and sale items with the code FANDF, ends tomorrow.
• Diane von Furstenberg - 30% off new fall items with the code SURPRISE, ends Wednesday
• J. Crew Factory - Extra 25% off, ends today.
• Tibi - Pop-up Sale, up to 40% off plus free shipping, ends today.
• Urban Outfitters - 50% off fall womens and mens items.

In-Store

• Bloomingdales - Save 20-30% off regular priced and sale items, ends tomorrow.
• Gap - Extra 40% off all sale items, ends today.

Sales - New York

• Rent the Runway - Sample Sale, up to 95% off of gently worn designer dresses, at 260 Fifth Ave between 28th and 29th Sts, ends Oct 5.
• Scoop NYC - Closet Clean-Out Sale, up to 85% off designer clothes such as Philip Lim, Alice and Olivia and more, 430 W. 14th St. between Washington St. and 9th Ave, ends Oct 22.

Lookbook: Red, Red, the Color of Your Heart

Alright.  I'll admit that ever since graduation last December I've been missing school like crazy.  College is fun.  College is freeing.  College is where you can wake up for an 8 o'clock class, crawl right back into bed afterwards, and still not have any of it matter.  I ventured again back on campus this weekend for my sorority's annual Red Dress Gala fundraiser, which benefits the Alpha Phi Foundation and the American Heart Association.  For a brief moment, my current sorority sisters allowed me to pretend that I was still in college.  Decked in our best red (and sometimes black) dresses, the event was a combination of a casino night/silent auction.  As such, the event made for not only a great lookbook entry for the blog, but to showcase how sexy, adorable, amazing, and downright stylish these girls look.  Too many compliments?  I'll let you be the judge of that.

Trina Turk Dress (similar in green), J. Crew Suede Heels (old)

Being the ever-so future-conscious bargain shopper, I found this amazing Trina Turk dress at Bloomingdales at winter clearance last year for under $80.  While Trina Turk is known for some of her more bold patterns and designs, I love her basic pieces.  The cuts are incredibly feminine and have a bit of a 1950's/1960's Mad Men vibe to them.  I particularly love how this is a great fall/winter dress as well, with its denser and comfortable material.  Seriously, I had been waiting to wear this dress for a while.

I paired it with some old J. Crew nude suede heels purchased for under $60 dollars, which complemented the bright red well while providing some textural contrast to the entire outfit.  That's potentially less than $150 (or at least estimated) for a fun, stylish night with my favorite ladies!  Other than some of the fabulous fashions that were demonstrated by my girls, it also didn't hurt to end the night on a great note.  I managed to snag a free Dry Bar blow out in the raffle, which I will probably document in lengthy detail right here.

Before I go, I have two side notes.  Side note number one is a huge shout out to my girl Sarah Z, who looked stunning in a draped tank dress.  I didn't get a picture with you, but I sure as heck wish I did.

Side note number 2, the Alpha Phi Foundation raises money and awareness of women's cardiac healthcare.  Heart disease is one of the leading killers of women in the United States.  If you could take the time to either read, educate, or even donate to the cause, it would be greatly appreciated on behalf of myself and all my sorority sisters.  You can donate at foundation.alphaphi.org.

Deals & Steals 9/22 to 10/1, plus a Sample Sale Preview

By the way, did I mention I was back?  And with a force!  I'm going to do a little something different this time around, and focus on one grand sample sale that's coming up before I go off posting the low-down on what's going on in retail world.  Why?  Because, I do not want you to miss out on this great opportunity.

Left to Right:  BCBG Mazazria; Monique Lhuilier; Badgely Mischka; Elizabeth and James

There are moments where I wish with all my heart of hearts that I was back in New York.  Next Monday begins one of those moments.  Rent the Runway, which you may know as the smash designer dress rental website, is hosting their sample sale starting 10/1 to 10/6.  If you're in New York and you haven't been, you are truly missing out on gently (and I mean gently) worn fashions for 95% off.

This had to have been one of my favorite sample sales I went to last spring.  Located in Midtown, the organizers make it a point to keep everything neat and organized at the end of every sale day, which is an astonishment given the racks on racks of designer goods that's there.  While some items may be damaged or stretched, a majority is still in good condition, albeit a slight discoloration or two.  The prices themselves make it worth it.  I managed to snag a Lela Rose dress with an original price at $1200+ for a mere $125.

Rent the Runway will sell some of their sample jewelry and accessories, but those pale in comparison to the dresses.  The line to the dressing room is a bit of an organized disorder, and you will have people sneaking peaks at what you're trying on as your dressing.  However, in my experience, most of the shoppers have been rather polite about it.  If you're in town, go for it.

Starts 10/1, ends 10/6.  Located at 260 Fifth Ave., NY, NY

Online

• C Wonder - 30% off sale items with code EXTRAEXTRA and 15% off full-priced items with coded PJ15.  Ends 9/30.
• DVF - 30% off entire purchase with the code SURPRISE.  Ends Wednesday 10/3.
• Old Navy - Extra 15% off with code ONEXTRA15.  Ends Sunday.
• Theory - 25% off entire purchase by registering at this address.  Ends Sunday 9/23.
• Tory Burch - Extra 40% off purchase of pre-fall clothing.  

In-Store

• Banana Republic - Extra 40% Off Sale Merchandise.

New York City - Sales

• Armani - Sample Sale, up to 80% off womenswear.  Prices range from $99 to $600, which according to high fashion world, is a steal.  Ends Sunday 9/23.  At 407 W. 13th St.
• Dolce and Gabbana - Sample sale, prices at 80% off.  Prices range from $50 to $400.  123 W. 18th St.  Ends Sunday.
• Hester St. Fair Stylist Tent - Tent Sale, with prices as low as $10 for designer goods like Barneys and Prada from the wardrobe of personal stylists.  Ends today.  At the corner of Essex St. and Hester St.
• The Row - Sample Sale, deep discounts on ready to wear and handbags.  Ends Sunday, 9/23.  At 317 W. 33rd St.

Travelogue: The Madrileña Part II - Of Churros and Toros

In the vain hope of actually documenting my trip, you'll see some entries interlaced in between ones of actual life back in the States.  I apologize for the chronological confusion that is about to occur, but hopefully pretty pictures will allow you to forgive me.

Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas in Madrid

Lesson one about Madrid is that it may not be for the faint of heart.  It's rich, yes.  Both in culture and in cuisine, which we apparently learned the hard way when wandering through the Museo de Jamón (Museum of Ham) or watching an actual bull fight at Las Ventas.  For the sake of not disturbing you too much, I'll probably forgo from the discussion of the bullfight.  It was gory.  Fortunately, I was so exhausted from jet lag that I actually fell asleep in the middle of the bullfight.  The plus sides?  The bull fighting ring was beautiful, and the toreadors have some cute tooshes.

Left:  Anita and I in front of the Chocolateria de San Gines; Right:  Devouring the churros.

Lesson two?  The extent of how gory the bull fight was was made up for in the deliciousness of Madrid's markets and local staples.  One of the must-go-to places on my list was the Chocolateria San Gines.  The store specializes in churros con chocolate.  Now, these aren't your run of the mill churros from Taco Bell or Costco, which I'll be honest were the only churros I had eaten at that point.  These are hot, funnel cake-like, melt in your mouth sticks of deliciousness, dipped in a soup-like chocolate.  The chocolate was not too sweet, but had a delicious dark bitterness to it.  Needless to say, they were eaten very quickly.

I've got more pictures of food where that came from.  You should click the next page to see it!  It'll make you hungry, I'm just going to warn you.  Click next to read more!

Lookbook: Layers into Football Fashion

Needless to say it, but the beginning of fall has meant a very long pause away, be it for vacation, for work, for training or for the ever-so-lovely mister visiting Atlanta with only three days notice.  Then again, I'm not a girl to complain about having more than a week's notice about visitors, especially of the male suitor variety.  Since JZ had never really explored the South before and with the coming of a new football season, it meant a fun filled weekend of tailgating, the Georgia Tech - Virginia game, and grits.

Left:  Bobby Dodd Stadium at the start of the Georgia Tech vs. Virginia game; Right:  one of the only two photos of which I was coherent enough to take.  Sorry to my friend Maz for cutting off his face.  It's too beautiful for the masses to see.

The one thing to know about college football in the South (for the average sorority girl and the occasional fabulous man-friend) is that it is as much of a fashion statement as it is about the sport.  Yes folks, we dress up for football just like we'd dress up for church.  The men are dressed in what could be their Sunday best, and the women don their school colors in skirts, sundresses, and short combos.  While recycling old game day outfits it perfectly acceptable, those who still can't afford a brand new outfit every game can re-mix and match.  This of course was my very predicament as I decided to go less than 24 hours before the game.  Let's call it, the 1-hour challenge for the quest for the perfect white and gold combination (with navy being an acceptable contrast color).

Madewell Perfect Racerback Tank; Madewell Serenade Tank; Crafts and Love Fringe Necklace

The result?  A fortunate trip to Madewell that resulted in a two-for-$35 tank deal for their perfect racerbank tank and their Serenade tank on sale.  I loved how the racerback's nude color paired well with my skin tone, and managed to make my wobbly bits not show.  Paired with an three-year-old navy Banana Republic miniskirt and a Crafts and Love layering necklace, the outfit was a touch of old gold and vintage charm.  

Sorority sisters both new and alumni, which also is picture number two in which I was coherent enough to take.

Lastly, big props to my sorority sisters looking super fine, and the girl who I managed to catch on the right side.  Cowboy boots at a football game deserve major style props.  Go, whatever your name may be.  Let your style ring out into the corners of the Internet.

What do you think readers?  A welcome post after weeks of not being here?  Got a tale of game day glory you want to share?  Holler at your girl down below.

Travelogue: The Portable Madrileña Part I

Remember when I said that I would be posting often on this trip?  Clearly, I was very much incorrect, as evidenced by the fact that I am clearly at home right now.  After arriving, we spent two days in Madrid before departing for Toledo for a day en route to Barcelona.  Surprisingly enough, Madrid proved to be the very definition of calm and quiet, with a large amount of its population being on holiday.

Lunch at Dolores Promesas at Sant Pere in Madrid

As tired and hungry tourists, our introduction to the city was through food.  As with a majority of Spanish cities (especially those frequented by tourists), tapas dominate the culinary scene.  With the aid of some guidebooks (namely "Rick Steves"... or as my friend Ashley lovingly calls him "Rick"), we found an amazing little canape (toast with meat, cheeese or sauce on top) bar a couple blocks down from our hotel called "Dolores Promesas."

Above:  Book stands on the side of the Cuesta de Moyano; Below:  Parque del Retiro

With the streets being mostly empty -- aside from tourists and the few locals we did spot -- we had plenty of room to wander around before the art museums became free of charge.  The Old Quarters of Madrid seemed to be a treasure trove for the intellectual, with used books peddlers with goods from as early as the late 1800's in great abundance.  Wandering through a mostly empty park with unobstructed views didn't hurt too much either.

Somehow through all of the wandering and our tired stupor, we managed to hit both the Prado and the Reina Sofia art museums.  Unfortunately, I got a stern talking to when I attempted to take a picture at the Prado, but fortunately, the Reina Sofia museum was a little bit more relaxed about me pulling out my camera phone.

In any case, it's my first weekend back in Atlanta before I fly off to Dallas for training.  More Spain recapping to be done later!  Holler at your girl!