BlogCatalog

Here's a little shopping secret for you: when you sign up for sale email alerts, you know about hot fashion sales before everyone else does. Rather than sign up to receive the email newsletters of various retailers and wind up with many emails in your inbox, you can instead sign up for sale alerts through a third party provider and receive the bargain information of all your favorite retailers in one email. Best of all, the service is FREE.

There are two top services that provide great fashion sale information: Shop It To Me and ShopStyle. At Shop It To Me, the service locates your favorite brands on sale in your specific size. Just create a profile at Shop It To Me and select your favorite brands, retailers and your sizes. You then receive daily or weekly (depending on your preference) Shop It To Me Salemail which lists the sales of your favorite brands and designers in your specific size. So, let's say you love Diane von Furstenberg, as I do, then when a DVF dress in your size suddenly goes on sale at Nordstrom, you receive an email from Shop It To Me Salemail. Pretty cool, huh? My Shop It To Me Salemails have led to some awesome bargains including Diane von Furstenberg, Custo Barcelona, MICHAEL by Michael Kors, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Free People. See the sample Salemail below.

ShopStyle is a wonderful fashion search engine. Sorry, Google, but when I'm shopping for a cute pencil skirt, I type "pencil skirt" into ShopStyle's search engine and get way more awesome options. But if what you seek are sales, then you must sign up for ShopStyle Sale Alerts. As is the case with Shop It To Me, you have to set up a profile including your favorite brands and sizes. Then set your email preferences and you're good to go. My personal Sale Alerts bargain finds include Juicy Couture and Betsey Johnson. Check out the Sale Alert email example below.

So, which is better and which sale alert service should you sign up for? My most sincere advice is to sign up for both. While some of the selection overlaps, I have found that the two services offer a sale selection with more differences than similarities. If you truly want a vast amount of sale information and bargain finds, then you would do best to sign up for both Shop It To Me and ShopStyle. You won't regret it, and you'll find your wardrobe growing and growing with great designer bargain discoveries while still saving money.

Times are tough, and shoppers are cutting back. But, that doesn't mean consumers have stopped their holiday shopping all together. Americans are still giving and getting presents. In today's economy, being able to give the "right" gift can be a challenge, especially if the recipient is a high-maintenance, fashion-loving, trend-setting diva (that's a lot of hyphens). Being that I fit that description, I must share with you some tips and tricks for satisfying the designer demands of your favorite fashionista while sticking to your Walmart budget.

Speaking of Walmart, did you know you can buy designer fashion at this often chastised mass market? Norma Kamali has been designing since the 60s and is known for being innovative and creating functional, yet fashionable, pieces that can often be worn in various ways and in various settings. One of her most classic designs is the puffy sleeping bag coat, which is now available at Walmart for only $28. Her collection for Walmart even includes organic pieces. The entire collection ranges from a mere $4 to $28, so you can definitely find something stylish and inexpensive.

Norma Kamali for Walmart. Image from Walmart.com.

Of course, you must be familiar with Target's success with showcasing designer fashion. Currently at Target, you can find the Anna Sui for Target collection (price range: $20.98 - $104.98), Carlos Falchi for Target (handbag price range: $19.99 to $49.99) and Anna Sheffield for Target (jewelry price range: $13.99 - $34.99).

Anna Sheffield® for Target® Charm Bracelet. Image from Target.com.

Kohl's currently features a line from reality star turned designer Lauren Conrad. Named LC Lauren Conrad, the line includes jeans, leggings, tops and even pretty party dresses. Styles are trendy without being too young and junior-ish, so even the mature fashionista will appreciate the designs. Prices range from $13.99 - $44.99.

LC Lauren Conrad Shaker Cardigan and Asymmetrical Dress. Both images from Kohls.com.

It's become a tradition, hasn't it? The holiday gift-giving season seems like the best time to give the gift of personal fragrance. Why is that? I hypothesize there are two reasons for this. One, people rarely buy a fragrance for themselves. Men never think to buy cologne, unless it's something they saw advertised on television for $9.99. And women often think of fragrance as a romantic gift. We wait for our significant other to make the purchase for us. The other reason personal fragrance is a popular gift during the holidays is that it's so easy to buy and give. Even when giving to those people who have everything, a bottle of perfume or cologne always seems to work out.

As easy as it is, one must put some thought into the purchase. After all, a bottle of White Shoulders may make a great gift for your Grandma Mae, but it would make a terrible gift for your twenty-something sister. So take some time to look in magazines, watch some television ads and read some blogs to learn about the personal fragrance options available on the market today before you shop. Once you realize what an easy and rewarding gift it is to give, you'll find yourself giving perfume and cologne to all your loved ones every holiday season.

Ready to begin shopping for personal fragrances? Start here by reading the following perfume and cologne blogs. They're very informative and helpful, covering modern fragrances available today.

Polish, Platforms, Perfume – With a name like that, you can imagine this perfume blog is my favorite! Blogger and Blog Catalog member, Lindsey, writes thorough blog reviews that include her editorial opinion, personal voice and, of course, details about the notes. Lindsey's' reviews are so clear and strongly descriptive that you begin to smell the fragrance as you are reading.

Perfume and Cologne Reviews – If it just hit the market, you can bet Blog Catalog member Armondo is on it. On his blog, Perfume and Cologne Reviews, you can get background information on the brand, details on the notes, pricing and even a fragrance education. For example, Armondo's blog post on Floral-Based Perfumes gives insight as to why one may prefer floral-based fragrance and lists recommendations.

The Smell of Bliss – If you're tired of smelling like everyone else, or you're shopping for someone who is, then niche fragrances are for you. When this Blog Catalog member isn't studying, researching and writing about the Gainesville, Florida Apartments market, she's reviewing and blogging about niche perfumes. That is, perfumes that are not manufactured for the mass market. If you're looking for something truly unique to give this holiday season, turn to The Smell of Bliss for guidance.

It's almost here. Are you ready for it? Black Friday is November 27 and Cyber Monday is November 30. These are  THE shopping days of the year – the two days when eager shoppers can take advantage of fantastic sales and special offers and quickly complete their holiday shopping lists.

But to really benefit from these special shopping days, you need a plan and you need to work that plan to its fullest potential.

1. Who's on your list? By now, you should have a written list of all the people for whom you are shopping this holiday season. If you don't, make one now!

2. What's on your list? Next to each gift recipient's name, note gift ideas for each one. In a separate area, list the holiday items you need for yourself, such as a party dress or home decorations.

3. Where will you shop? Now that you know what you need to buy, write down where you need to go to make your purchases.

4. How will you shop?Will you hit the brick and mortar stores on Black Friday or shop online on Cyber Monday? Or, will you do both? Decide now.

5. How much money can you save? Do your research. Look for scheduled sales and special offer. For example, if you plan on shopping at Banana Republic to purchase a dress shirt for your Uncle Bob, find out if BR is having a sale. Maybe there's even a promotion code you can use online to save money.

As you complete your lists and do your research, you may find yourself altering your original shopping strategy. This is to be expected, especially if you're trying to save money this holiday season. Be flexible. But in the end, come up with a plan and stick to it. Do what works for you, whether it's saving money or getting all your shopping done in one place for the sake of efficiency. Whatever your needs are, devise a strategy.

To stay ahead of the shopping game and help you save money, visit the following blogs for coupons, news and information on sales. Happy shopping!

Black Friday Sales 2009 – The blog title says it all. Visit this site for huge store sales, price cuts and more.

Queen of Clearance – Secrets to saving money while still living like royalty.

Christmas Store: Overstock Clearance, Gift Shopping Online, Free Shipping Offers – Clearance outlet deals.

I Love a Good Sale – The SOURCE for exclusive coupon codes and sales to most major retailers.

The Bargainist – Hand-picked deals, sales and coupons.

(Banner from Blog Catalog member Black Friday Sales 2009.)

There are things you need and things you don't need. And just because something is advertised on television, creating a buzz on the Internet or comes highly recommended by your Aunt Josephine, doesn't mean you need it.

Jen Benz, trendsetter, blogger and creator of Prom Mafia agrees, presenting a handful of things you don't need in her blog post appropriately title, "5 Things You Don't Need." Seriously, let's face it. If you don't need it, but you buy it, you're just wasting your money. And Jen aims to save you from that.

So, what are these five things you don't need?
1. The Bra Strap Clip - According to Jen, "You can get the same result by clipping a safety pin around your straps, which is what I’ve been using for years."

2. The Snuggie - I hate the Snuggie. I find it offensive, not only to my sense of fashion but also to my intelligence. I own blankets. I own a robe. That's enough. And Jen posed this smart question to Snuggie users, "Do you really need a hybrid of the two?"

3. Shoes that get you in shape - I agree with Jen on this one. I mean, is there really any data out there to prove that I can get rid of my cellulite by wearing flip flops or sneakers with that extra thick sole?

4. The Kindle - "Technology is great," explained Jen, "but there is something special about holding a real book."

5. The Cookie Diet - Um..., yeah. I think this one is pretty self-explanatory.

So, what are some things you DO need? I turned to Jen for help with this one and here are her recommendations:

1. Makeup Remover - Soap and water just isn't enough. "Makeup remover is formulated to quickly and easily remove makeup with minimal wiping," she said. Minimal wiping means less damage to your skin. Jen has sensitive skin and suggested women with the same issue use Neutrogena Ultra Soft Eye Makeup Remover Pads.

2. Dr. Scholl's Gel Insoles - Don't let the annoying commercials throw you off. Jen and I are both a big fan of these lifesavers. "They soothe your feet and help you get through the day in a pair of not-so-comfortable shoes," Jen said. "You can use them over and over again and switch them in and out of different pairs of shoes." Dr. Scholl's Gel Insoles can run you about $10, but Jen suggested you visit the Dr. Scholl's website and print out the $2 off coupon for the insoles.

3. isABelt - Jen described isABelt as "The ultimate fashion fix-it item." This invisible belt is designed to fix back pant gap and help fashionistas from flashing their panties.

So whether you're shopping for yourself or purchasing gifts for this holiday season, keep in mind the things you need and the things you don't need and avoid the latter. Then check back with Prom Mafia to stay up to date with all the things you need... or at least, want.

This fall season is a strong season for fashion jewelry trends. Maybe it's because of the recession. Think about it. If you decide not to update your apparel and shoe wardrobe at all, you could still update your style and appear on-trend by spending less than $100 on fashion jewelry. Go ahead and wear your military jacket, painterly dress or your slouchy pleated trousers from last year. These looks still work. But now update them by incorporating the following three fashion jewelry trends.

Layered Necklaces
Pile it on! According to Ellen and Barbara Zenter The Gals at SoHoAccessories and creators of the blog by the same name, this is a trend where less is not more. In fact, think more, more, more. However, you should vary lengths. "Include all different links from 16 inch (or even shorter) all the way to a nice, long 24 inch," the jewelry experts advised. Lengths longer than that look too costume-y and are better saved for celebrities.

"If you dabble in different weights, it's best to throw in just one chain that is really chunky and keep the rest near the same weight.  Also, mixed media is very chic!  In other words try a satin ribbon necklace with a strand of pearls and metal chains thrown in," suggested Barbara. Ellen and Barbara also said you should keep in mind your audience. It's okay to wear layered necklaces to work, but keep the layers to a maximum of four. Of course, if you're painting the town red, then go for broke and wear six, seven, eight layers or more.

Statement Pieces
Last fall, statement necklaces were a big hit. They still are, but this fall, your statement piece could potentially be on your ears, around your wrist or on your hand.  Just not all at the same time, of course.

Wear your statement piece on the area of your body where you would like to draw attention. If you have great eyes or love your smile, wear statement earrings. Like your neck or want to show off your décolletage? Wear a statement necklace. Don a statement wrist cuff or bracelet if you like your arms, but if you have great hands, wear an oversize statement ring.

"A statement piece doesn't always mean it is big, it could be something that has a bright flash of color or movement to it," Barbara said. "Don't be afraid to wear your statement piece at any time!  A statement piece is about conveying a message to others whether it's day or night," she added.

Mixed Metals
"Mixing metals is a trend that comes and goes and tends to follow the fashion cycle," Barbara and Ellen explained this popular trend, "When fashion is more conservative we tend to go conservative with accessories as well and it becomes taboo to mix metals.  But we are going through a period of liberal fashion and it's all about expressing our individuality by going against the grain." The ladies also clarified that it's an easy and affordable trend to follow because women can just use their current inventory of jewelry and put something together. "This is part of the reason why layering is so popular," they said, "Both trends are serving us really well in these tougher economic times because they are easy to create without having to buy something new.  Now combine the two by layering your mixed metals!"

Ready to get started? Visit Ellen's and Barbara's Soho Accessories web store and check out the affordable options. And bookmark and visit their blog at Blog.SoHoAccessories.com for ideas, suggestions and more tips.

Must fashion and style be completely sacrificed when one becomes a mother? According to Sarah-Jean Ballard, Editor-in-Chief of The Fashionable Housewife, the answer is a firm no.

"I became a mother a little over two years ago and while I absolutely love my daughter and try to give her everything she needs in life, I also make sure I take time for me," explained Sarah-Jean. "In order to be the best mother you can be to your children, you have to take a little time for yourself," she finished.

At The Fashionable Housewife, readers get their dose of tips and suggestions for staying comfortable while remaining fashionable. So, even non-moms who find the need to combine comfort along with good style will find this blog useful and entertaining.

"Gone are the days when comfortable shoes meant granny shoes. With brands like Sofft, Born, and Clarks on the cutting edge of fashion while focusing on comfort, there is no reason to settle for ugly shoes just because they are comfortable, ever again!" Sarah-Jean exclaimed.

This is good news for all fashionistas. Being beautiful doesn't have to be painful. "In this day and age, there is no reason to compromise style just to be comfortable," advised the editor, herself a fashionable housewife. Sarah-Jean recommended women re-think the concept of being comfortable. She questioned, "Do you really think you are comfortable going out in public in your sweats? Your butt might feel comfy, but your dignity sure doesn't."

Sarah-Jean offered great comfort fashion advice. She suggested moms buy jeans with a bit of stretch like NYDJ Cashmere Denim and pair them with a gorgeous, yet super comfy structure shirt like XCVI Happy House Voile top.  Throw on a pair of Softspots Paxton Wedge with a cute scarf and the transformation to becoming a fashionable housewife is now complete.

With two best girlfriends who have just had their first child, I see how challenging it can be to spend one's days as a new mom. Surely it's too difficult to be stylish and a good mom? Right? Sarah-Jean said otherwise: "The most important thing to remember when it comes to staying stylish is not to feel guilty about taking time out for yourself. Sometimes it can be hard to even get in a decent shower! Make sure you have some help and take a few minutes in the morning to fix your hair, throw on a little mascara and lipgloss, and put on some decent clothes you didn't pull out of the laundry pile. You'd be amazed at how much of a difference it can make in your day. Staying stylish can actually help you be the best mom you can possibly be!"

Inspiring, insightful and encouraging -- readers will find all this and more at The Fashionable Housewife. Being that Sarah-Jean is quite the fashion diva, I just had to find out what she's shopping for right now. "I'm still on the search for the perfect pair of Over The Knee Boots for under $100.  I'm also in the market for a motorcycle jacket, skinny ankle jeans with zippers, and something in hounds tooth," she answered. Coincidently, those are also my personal favorite fall trends, too. I guess great minds think alike. If you find you can't rock over-the-knee boots, Sarah-Jean offered an alternative, "Opt for another tall boot like the Born Nenna that will work for absolutely everyone."

Sarah-Jean Ballard
Editor-in-Chief of The Fashionable Housewife

The style-educated fashionista knows the importance of incorporating vintage fashion into her wardrobe. Vintage fashion evokes the romance or excitement of another era while keeping your personal style fresh and unique.

Today, American teens are scouring thrift stores and their parents’ closets for 1980s leotards, acid wash denim and concert t-shirts. Meanwhile fans of the hit television show “Mad Men” are searching for the sleek, sexy styles of the early 1960s. Let’s face it. Vintage fashion is in demand.

But, there’s something else we must face – vintage shopping is totally intimidating. Sure, you would love to dress like Don Draper, but what if you end up looking like Fredo Corleone instead? Before you go on the hunt for vintage fashion, you’ll need a bit of education. Your resource? The Past Perfect Vintage blog.

PastPerfectVintage.Blogspot.com is the blog for the vintage shop of the same name. Holly Jenkins-Evans owns Past Perfect Vintage and writes for the blog. At Past Perfect Vintage, Holly features quality vintage fashion from the Victorian and Edwardian eras to the 1970s, including selected designer clothing. A founding member of the Vintage Fashion Guild, Holly has supplied fashions to theatres, design houses and museums in US and Europe. A costume designer and draper by training, her theatrical credits include both design and production for approximately 200 productions around the US. So, let’s just say Holly knows her vintage.

“As a general rule, I do not recommend wearing pieces that are pre-1930s, as most vintage of that age is simply too fragile,” advised Holly. She suggested that beginning vintage shoppers should start small. “Learn about what you buy before you invest serious sums,” said Holly, “For those who are shopping for wardrobe needs, I suggest mixing vintage and modern fashions. This avoids the 'dress up' look.” As for care, Holly said fashionistas should start with washable cotton or sturdy wool. “They are the easiest to care for,” she explained. Interested in becoming a collector? Read “Preserving Textiles: A Guide for the Nonspecialist” by Harold Mailand.

Holly also suggested that vintage shoppers do a bit of research and familiarize themselves with the fashion periods so they can tell what they like and what they’re buying. Two great resources are the Vintage Fashion Guild and a new book just released, titled “The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping” by Melody Fortier. Holly contributed a section to this hot-selling book.

If vintage designer clothing is what appeals to your shopping sense, Holly claimed that studying your favoritedesigners’ history is crucial. “If the buyer knows their working dates, labels and their style, he/she will be ahead of the curve,” she said.

You may be tempted to attend estate sales and auctions on your own, searching for great vintage attire, but Holly warned that these adventures are often time-consuming and unsuccessful. In addition, most of these types of sales are ‘as is’ or do not allow returns. “As a vintage dealer, I search out great pieces, then clean, repair them appropriately, research, date, measure and provide a condition report for all items I sell. My customers can take their time and consider what they want and ask as many questions as they wish. And rest assured they will get a garment in the best possible condition,” Holly clarified.

Another thing vintage shoppers should keep in mind is that the sizing from “way back then” differs from modern sizes. Holly cautioned that shoppers must be prepared to go up several sizes. “A 1950s size 8 and a 2009 size 8 simply do not relate,” Holly said. Whether shopping online or in person, vintage shoppers should keep with them their exact measurements, including shoulders, arm length, bust/chest, waistline, hips and inseam. Shopping for vintage hats? Definitely measure the circumference of your head.

As for eras, know that each had its own unique styles and silhouettes. Holly explained that the 1920s look is for the straight-figured woman, while the 1930s is ideal for the shapely, but toned figure. The 1940s silhouettes are nicely shaped and allow for bust, waist and hips, but also provide fullness to hide figure flaws. The 1950s are perfect for the curvy fashionista and the 1960s are best for boho-chic ladies with a thin figure. “Having said that, I find that although I can't wear 20s and 30s clothing well, I can wear the shoes, shawls, hats and jewelry of those periods just fine! So you can find something from any period,” said Holly.

Optimism aside, Holly did convey one firm vintage shopping rule: “If you were alive during a time period, it's best not to try to wear it again. For example, I look silly trying to wear the 1960s again. It looks like reliving the past instead of re-discovering the past!”

Re-discover the past with Holly and the Past Perfect Vintage blog. Gain advice and obtain tips on becoming a knowledgeable vintage shopper. One of Holly’s most educational blog post is a three-part article called Buyer Beware, in which she addresses labels, dates, secret alterations, reproductions and so much more. She also reports to her readers of vintage shops she discovers while traveling, the newest additions to her own vintage store and “neat examples” from other sellers she knows and trusts.

True fashionistas are constantly on the hunt for unique pieces that help them express their own original and distinct style. Sure we love a pair of L.A.M.B. heels and saving money by nabbing a trendy little number at Forever 21. But in order to avoid looking like everyone else, we enjoy incorporating one-of-a-kind and vintage pieces into our wardrobe and accessories collection.

It used to be that we raided the closets and jewelry boxes of our mothers, aunts and grandmothers, shopped estate sales and thrift stores, and scoured the pages of Ebay in search of something special. But now we have Etsy, which gives us the convenience of shopping online and makes us feel as though we've stumbled upon an interesting combination of a craft show and antique shop filled with wonderful treasures. Etsy.com genuinely fills a shopping void that previously existed in the lives of fashionistas whose mission it was to appear originally styled.

From handmade pieces to vintage designs, unique items are in abundance at Etsy. Shoes, handbags, apparel, outwear, jewelry and more – you'll find it all. You'll even find pretty supplies, if you're interested in designing your own indie creations. Currently the amount of Etsy sellers spans the globe with buyers and sellers coming from more than 150 countries. Etsy sellers number in the hundreds of thousands, so there are plenty of options for the particular fashionista.

Because of the many options, shopping Etsy can be an overwhelming process that may be simplified by using the Etsy search engine. However, Etsy shoppers should also consider bookmarking and actively visiting the following Etsy-enthusiast blogs.

Indie Finds on Etsy
Find the best of Etsy supplies and tutorials and read interviews with Etsy sellers.

Etsy Profiles
Discover individual Etsy sellers, learn about what they make and sell and read their profiles.

Love Etsy Feedback
This blog focuses on Etsy sellers who have outstanding feedback and great products. Featured artists often post discounts and giveaways, too.

Etsy Twitter Team Blog
The Etsy Twitter Team blog is designed to help sellers by bringing together Etsy sellers who use Twitter together to become the Twitter authority on all things handmade. But as a shopper, you benefit from reading this blog and discovering Etsy sellers and their unique items.

European Street Team
Discover an array of designs and creations from around the world.

Handmade Vintage Necklace with White Glass Pearls
designed by ebruck Supplies from Istanbul
and featured on European Street Team.

Big girls like looking good, too, but the fashion industry doesn't seem to either understand that or care. Many people don't realize this, but most bridge labels and high-end fashion designers do not create outfits larger than a size 10 or a size 12. And in the United States, the average woman's size is14. Some designers, such as Diane von Furstenberg, design for up to size 14, but for the most part, what is a size 16, 18, 20 or above woman to do when she's desiring a bit of hauteness in her wardrobe?

Plus-size women adore the designs of Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana and Tory Burch as much as size 6 women do. The plus-size market is a market of fashion-loving and savvy shoppers that the fashion industry is missing out on. But, thanks to outspoken bloggers and curvy celebrities who love their bodies and inspire women to do the same (Christina Hendricks of Mad Men, for example) the media is finally catching on. Hopefully, the fashion industry will follow suit.

In November's issue of Glamour magazine, Glamour features an array of diverse and plus-size models as well as a promise to continue to feature more full-figure ladies and support those designers and brands who create stylish pieces for this often ignored market. Cheers to Glamour for the effort and for recognizing what their readers truly want to see among the pages of this glossy magazine. Women everywhere, of all shapes and sizes, can't wait to see what happens next with all fashion magazines and the fashion industry as a whole. If we're bound to see more plus-size models, perhaps we'll also begin to see more racial diversity, women as short as 5'4" walking the runway and maybe even models who have never spent a moment on the table of a plastic surgeon. Wouldn't that be refreshing?

Until the day arrives that a size 22 can purchase a chic Michael Kors dress, know that there are stylish options out there. Liz Claiborne carries a wonderful array of plus-size fashion. And at Silhouettes.com, plus-size divas can find trend-setting and stylish looks at affordable prices.

PlusSizeClothing4Me.com is an informative and helpful blog that offers wonderful tips, ideas and links to plus-size shopping. Managed by two women whose mission is to share their own experience and knowledge of online, affordable fashion for real, full-body women, plus-size shoppers will find links to sexy, plus-size lingerie, plus-size junior fashion, wide-width shoes and even plus-size Halloween costumes. Filled with useful articles and money-saving coupons, PlusSizeClothing4Me is a one-stop blog for everything plus-size fashion making shopping so much easier for the full-figure fashionista.

(Screenshot from PlusSizeClothing4Me.com)