Guerilla Shopper NYC

I'm the Demolition Man

2012-01-28T00:25:00.000-05:00

Hi all - week one came to a close and I made my first visit to the homestead and took a bunch of shots of empty messed up rooms. And closets. And here they are:

Kitchen. Left the door and the sink.

Other side of kitchen. Left radiator; window.

Inside of closet with shelves ripped out.

Front entrance/doorway/foyer looking into living room.

Living Room closet with shelves removed.

Living room. With bathroom sink.

Living Room. With garbage.

Doorway from living room to back hallway.

Bathroom. Where the sink used to be.

Bathroom. Tub coffin.

Bathroom floor; opposite wall.

Bathroom pipes and stuff.

Bathroom Radiator.

The tub beneath.

Bedroom.

Bathroom sink shelf.

Bedroom, other wall.

Door/hallway looking into living room.

Hallway Floors: Just Like Can-day

2012-01-21T14:23:00.000-05:00

These are the floors in the common hallways in the new building. The first time I saw them I wanted to eat them, which pretty much sealed the deal, even before I saw the inside of the apartment.

And luckily there is no wandering sax player in the video of my life (2:51).

GE Cafe Has a Red Logo...

2012-01-18T22:15:00.000-05:00

French-door refrigerator: internal

French-door refrigerator: external

Over-range microwave w/exhaust fan

Dishwasher

Gas slide-in range

...and I like it!

I've been searching high and low for the best prices on some of the lower-end models in this line of kitchen appliances (counter-depth French-door 'fridge, gas slide-in range, over-range microwave w/exhaust fan and dishwasher). I looked around, compared/contrasted, and decided they had the high-end look of the really high-end brands, but were more "affordable" (I use that term loosely, however, as they aren't cheap). GE also seems to get strong reviews for quality and service. So I think I'm gonna go for it. Will let you know where I get a good deal.

OH! Also, the co-op board of my building gave us the green light to start work asap, as long as, and I quote, "the plumber and electrician are licensed and you don't use a jackhammer."

Oh well, they've dashed my jackhammering dreams.

I'm taking three light fixtures with me

2012-01-15T19:32:00.000-05:00

I need about eight light fixtures throughout the new pad. I am taking three with me. If my math is correct, that means I will need five new ones. Here's what I'm starting with:

Chandelier currently in my kitchen, may end up in new bedroom.

Chandelier 2: Currently in bedroom, may move to desk area in new kitchen. And yes, that's Timmy.

Glass fixture currently in hall outside bathoom. May take same position in new apt.

Same fixture turned on. Let there be light!

Apartment Reno: STAGE II

2012-01-14T19:06:00.000-05:00

Hi y'all. Yes, the process toward making the apartment a magical palace with a nod to the 1920's is taking longer than one would expect. Except I was told to expect that. So I guess it's expectedly unexpected. So here are the likely candidates for tile, paint, countertops and cabinets...Can you guess which cabinet and countertop I am leaning toward?

Check 'em out:

Kitchen cabinet contenders: all cherry woods

Kitchen countertop contenders: Ceasarstone

Kitchen floor tile. White tile from Nemo. Brown accent tile from American Restoration Tile.

Paint colors: Harmonious by BEHR for kitchen door; Antique Pearl for bedroom and Marilyn's Dress for bathroom by Benjamin Moore.

Black & white subway tile for bathroom all from Nemo.

AND SO IT BEGINS...1920s Restoration / Renovation Project Take 1

2011-12-17T12:38:00.001-05:00

Before: Bathroom

And so it begins...this little effort is why my other shopping exploits have all but evaporated. Here are a few photos recently taken of the apartment I am now officially allowed to rebuild, and make better than before. Like the Six Million Dollar Man. The goal is to save as much as possible...and do as little as possible...to bring this gem into the 21st Century, while maintaining its 1920's glow. Interesting things such as NO ELECTRICAL OUTLETS IN THE BATHROOM make this a logistical challenge, but a quaint one at that. Right now we are still in the waiting to exhale stage, but once we get our plans finalized and approved, the real work shall begin. And so it goes.

BEFORE: Bedroom, when still on market.

BEFORE: Front hall closet

BEFORE: Bathroom floor, after I cleaned it yesteray. I think I'm going to try to save it!

BEFORE: Kitchen. Scary stove - out. Quaint cabinets, but they don't close so they got to go...

BEFORE: French door (love) heading into kitchen

BEFORE: Giant gas meter. Giant refrigerator. And look, another front door!

BEFORE: ...and...the Kitchen Sink. Love. Am restoring, keeping, and doing a jig around.

BEFORE: Living room windows.

Tues., Dec. 13: Filnoir Hosiery (from Italy) Trunkshow in Soho

2011-12-07T16:44:00.000-05:00

Hi all - I can personally attest to this one, seeing how I own a pair of black textured Filnoir tights!

I have been told that this trunk show will offer Panettone, Spumante, models, and of course the collection itself to be admired, experienced, tested, and purchased (+free sample w/purchases!).

Check it out next Tuesday night.

Lord & Taylor - A Christmas Miracle, Home-style

2011-12-03T17:43:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure how this got by me, but the Lord & Taylor in NYC has a relatively new "home" department on the 9th floor that is DIVINE. It features just a few select designers like Calvin Klein, Jonathan Adler, and Ralph Lauren and I LOVE IT. It's not overdone. It's not overstocked. It's tasteful. It has bedding, furniture, housewares. And most of all, there are some MAJOR sales going on right now. Like they almost owed me money at the register. It's on the same floor as the Christmas decor, which makes the whole thing a nice mix.

Sample Sale, Dec 8&9: Jane Post Coats & Rainwear

2011-12-02T15:57:00.000-05:00

I love coats, and this looked good, but I will admit I don't own this brand...

Zara’s Black Friday plans

2011-11-22T22:06:00.000-05:00

From 6am to 8am this Friday the 25^th, the Zara store on 34^th St (39 West 34^th St between 5^th and 6^th Ave.)will offer free coffee and tea to shoppers. Additionally, all Zara locations will have selected items on sale for up to 50% off.

FREE TEA AND COFFEE??! STOP THE PRESSES!!

Alessi Black Friday Sale

2011-11-15T16:45:00.000-05:00

About Alessi

With a vast product line that includes everything from an iconic, whistling teakettle to a designer flyswatter, the Alessi company was founded in 1921 by Giovanni Alessi. The company offers products geared towards the mainstream – serving trays and everyday cutlery among them – as well as celebrated cult objects.
For more information, please visit http://www.alessi.com/

Nov. 16-19: Housing Works Fashion for Action

2011-11-13T21:03:00.001-05:00

Brooks Brothers wool jacket
Retail: $1900
Fashion for Action price: $800

Fashion for Action 2011 Opening Night Reception
Date: Wednesday, November 16 2011
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm; VIPs arrive at 5:30 pm for preview shopping
Place: The Altman Building 135 West 18th Street, (between 6th and 7th avenues)
Price: Tickets start at $150. See all ticket prices.

Fashion for Action 2011 Three-Day Designer Sale
Date: November 17-19 2011
Time: 11 am to 7 pm
Place: The Altman Building 135 West 18th Street, (between 6th and 7th avenues)
Price: Sale is FREE and open to the public.
Website: fashionforaction.com

Thru Nov. 13: The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering’s Thrift Shop's Holiday Bazaar

2011-11-09T23:22:00.000-05:00

The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering’s Thrift Shop's Holiday Bazaar is taking place Wednesday, November 9 - Sunday, November 13 on the UES in NYC. Hours for this event are Wednesday from 10:00am to 7:00 pm, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, Saturday, from 11:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Often referred to as “the Bergdorf’s of Thrift shops”, the annual Holiday Bazaar draws a big crowd in search of vintage and designer labels (Alexander McQueen, Manolo Blahnik, Missoni, Gucci, etc.) at discount prices.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Thrift Shop

1440 Third Avenue (btw 81st and 82nd streets)

212-535-1250

www.memorialthriftshop.org

I am a bad Guerilla Blogger

2011-11-09T09:37:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. I have been neglecting the beloved GSNYC. However, I am enmeshed in potentially the biggest purchase of my life (think: real estate), so I:

a. Have been busy as hell.
b. Am not spending money

However! I hope to have some great Guerilla Real Estate stories and pointers to relate in the near future.

Hang in there with me...gsnyc

SKULLS! by Devora Libin Jewels

2011-10-23T18:41:00.000-04:00

Roxy II, Blue $125

Poppy S., Rutilated Quartz & Onyx $80

Devora Libin Jewels' publicist reached out to me regarding their latest collection. It's rare to get pitched something this good by a PR person. And I should know, since I have been one for longer than I will admit.

I am a huge fan of classy punk rock style. And these pieces are the embodiment of that. You can slip in and out of conventional society undetected, until someone looks closely, of course.

The pictures tell the story, but just so you know, this stuff is super high-quality. And I really dig the glittering crystal pave beads and Swarovski crystal detailed skulls. There are skull necklaces and earrings available online too, although wearing ALL skull jewelry at once might be overkill. So check out the handcuff and pistol pieces to break up the monotony!

Occupy Wall Street: Free Suits & Haircuts to Those in Need

2011-10-15T22:18:00.000-04:00

Hackett

For the second weekend in a row, I ventured downtown to check out the Occupy Wall Street scene at Zuccotti Park in NYC. This time, I stumbled upon something that hit me, touched me, moved me...One of the groups populating the park had raised money to purchase men's and women's suits that they altered on the spot in the park for anyone in need. They were also giving free haircuts. I didn't know it at first, but when I ran into my friend Chris Hackett, I learned from him that the effort was organized and executed by his group, The Madagascar Institute. He told me that they had bought the best suits from thrift stores in Brooklyn and Staten Island and were able to alter and give away 100 men's suits before 1 p.m. Amazing. The ultimate in Guerilla Shopping. Power!!

Devora Libin Jewels: Sale 15% Off thru 10/16/11

2011-10-14T15:48:00.000-04:00

http://devoralibinjewels.com/

CHANGE OF SEASON: TAKE AN ADDITIONAL 25% OFF

2011-10-13T18:38:00.001-04:00

Starting...NOW:

Everything in store is an additional 25% off

Owens wedges go down to $370
The sale will last for 2 weeks
Rick Owens, Gareth Pugh, Maria Zureta, Margiela, and MORE!!

Change of Season, a boutique outlet
341 East 9th St. NYC

Oct 4&5: Luca Luca Sample Sale Sneak Peek

2011-10-04T00:26:00.000-04:00

Start your engines! Knits ($75 dollar items, and a selection of XL) in current colors like cobalt; shoes for $40; belts that could inject life into a previous season wardrobe on deep discount at the Luca Luca sample sale starting tomorrow at 9:00 am. If you weren't at Fashion Week, you missed one of the prettiest collections. Dress like an A-lister with one-of-a-kind leather and suede samples, or for the ticklish -- or those who like to tickle -- find a feathered piece.
19 West 36th Street Tuesday and Wednesday.

/nanSEE brenner

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FAVORITE LEATHER COAT, JACKET OR HANDBAG

2011-09-28T15:23:00.000-04:00

All: I just received the following press release from the Professional Leather Cleaners Association, and thought it might be useful regarding the care of your leather jackets, handbags, teddies or masks (see pic.):

Leather is one of the hottest fashion trends this Fall and consumers will have many questions about caring, cleaning, and maintaining their leather garments and accessories. The Professional Leather Cleaners Association, a not for profit trade group, provides consumers with this information and much more on their website, http://www.professionalleathercleaners.org/.
..................
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FAVORITE LEATHER COAT, JACKET OR HANDBAG

The Professional Leather Cleaners Association is here to help consumers make their valuable leathers and shearlings last a very long time

NEW YORK, NY, September 28, 2011 − Leather is one of the hottest fashion trends this Fall and the Professional Leather Cleaners Association wants to make sure your valuable leather garments and accessories look their best and last a very long time!

Top ten care tips for your leather garments, shearling garments and accessories.

Leather ages gracefully and can last a lifetime with the proper care right from the start;

Always hang leather garments on wide or padded hangers to maintain their shape. Use shoetrees in footwear and stuff empty handbags with tissue to help retain their shape.

Never store leather goods in plastic or other non-breathable covers. This will cause leather to become dry.

Allow wet or damp leather to air-dry naturally away from any direct heat source. Leather can be treated with a conditioner to restore flexibility while suede can be brushed with a terry towel to restore its look.

In winter, promptly remove salt deposits from garments and footwear by sponging with water; follow with the above treatment for wet or damp leather.

Avoid very humid and dry environments as well as direct sunlight.

Do not use waxes, silicone products or other leather preparations that will impair a garment’s ability to breathe.

Wrinkles should hang out. If ironing is desired, set iron on rayon setting, use heavy brown wrapping paper as a pressing cloth on right side of the garment and a quick hand to prevent overheating and shine.

Avoid spraying perfumes or hair sprays while wearing your garment and do not apply pins, adhesive badges or tape. Wearing a scarf at the neckline will help keep hair and body oil away from the collar.

Hems may be fixed with a tiny amount of rubber cement. For best results, see a leather care professional.

All products formulated for at-home use should be tested on an inconspicuous part of the garment.

Thrift Store on Tiemann Place

2011-09-26T10:33:00.000-04:00

Right there on the south side of the street, a bit west of Broadway. I didn't go in, but LOOK! A $5 bin!

Hot Nautica Models from Fashion's Night Out

2011-09-16T15:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry it took me to long to post these shots courtesy of Nancy Brenner...but the wait was worth it, see?

Tory Burch Greeted Revelers at Fashion's Night Out

2011-09-09T16:57:00.000-04:00

The MePa district was mobbed with freebie hunting fashionistas following fellow goodie bag holders. Lucky Loubutin boutique fans scored free Frederic Fekkai updos or Lady Gaga like lashes. Tory Burch was game for greeting guests at her boutique. Were budgets blown in the carnival-like atmosphere in the Meat Packing District while the stock market was gyrating?

/nancy brenner

Giant Missoni Texting Chick on Mad Ave Last Night

2011-09-09T15:51:00.000-04:00

A big huge giant lady, who wasn't even a model, was seen texting outside the Missoni store on Madison Avenue during last night's "Fashion's Night Out."

I ran into Andre Leon Talley, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana -- the people themselves -- as I walked back downtown along Madison. I felt like I had crashed the set of the Devil Wears Prada 2. Funny stuff.

Pre NYFW Frenzy at Showroom Seven Sample Sale

2011-09-06T17:05:00.001-04:00

This sample sale is usually my go-to for special event costume jewelry. Several clothing lines they rep will rule at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week including Odd Molly. Seek out this sale for the scene alone -- pre-runway is in the air with models in for fittings, consider it a backstage pass to pre-Fashion Week prep usually reserved for insiders. Killer cocktail dress or red feather breast plate. anyone?

Showroom Seven
263 Seventh Avenue, 3rd floor

/nancy brenner