Annie Goes Shopping

What to Shop for in August: Get More for Less!

2010-08-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

What's a Gorilla doing in a shopping blog? Why he's standing on the roof of this car dealership telling you this is the month to look for deals on new cars. Are you going to deny him? August is when the newer models come in and the car dealer wants to move this year's models off the floor. So take that Godzilla!

August is a good month to look for bargains--from barbecues to White Sales. Happy Shopping!

This is the 9th post in a series of posts on how to get more for less. If you follow the retail sales calendar, you'll find the best bargains each month.

In August to get value for your money look for deals on:

Air Conditioners/Fans
Barbecues
Bathing Suits and Beachwear
Camping Gear
Cars (newer models coming in)
Clothing: School/Fall
Computers
Curtains and Drapes
Furniture
Gym Membership
Garden Tools (Sprinklers)
Lamps
Linens/Towels (White Sales)
Mowers
Pool Equipment
School Supplies
Sunglasses
Tires

Each month I'll preview the next month's sales. Look for my next blog post in the series,"What to Shop For in September: Get More for Less!" Check out last month's post. You'll also like: 10 Shopping Tips: Getting More for Less.

p.s. I'd like to say I was out shopping, but that's not the reason this post was delayed. It's summer time, the weather was nice and well, let's just say I hung a sign on the door that said, Gone Fishin!

But I'm back!

photo credit: Peter Kaminski:http://www.flickr.com/photos/peterkaminski/11843486/

For the Pet Lover: Dog Figurine Soaps (Plus a Cat & a Bunny!) from Gianna Rose

2010-07-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

These soaps from Gianna Rose are soooo cute. Do you own a lab? A poodle? A cat? Or are you an unabashed pet lover? Then these soaps are for you!

The soap comes in many scents--from a westie with a vanilla, melon, passion flower, and rose petal fragrance to a pug with a clean woodsy-floral.

And for the cat lover there is the chat sophistiqué cat soap with an attitude! This keepsake, triple-milled, vegetable-based soap has a tulip and hyacinth fragrance.

And don't forget the bunny!

More Gianna Rose...

Modern Kitchen Linens from Tikoli: Add a Little Pizazz!

2010-07-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

These modern kitchen linens from Tikoli will really brighten up your kitchen. The designs are influenced by Japanese prints and mid-century modern design.

On one hand...they are almost too nice to use. On the other hand...why not add a little pizazz to a dull task? Plus they make wonderful hostess gifts.

Tikoli is located in the San Francisco Bay area. Their eclectic, designs "reflect both the relaxed California lifestyle and the freshness and innovation of California cuisine."

Click on photos to see more information and to order:

100% cotton fabric: kitchen linens: $9.50

Deal of the Week: Smashbox Cosmetics

2010-07-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

Smashbox Cosmetics are the epitome of style and elegance.

Smashbox Cosmetics was conceived by the great-grandsons of the legendary Max Factor. The great- grandsons, Dean and Davis Factor, created the makeup line to fit the needs of their famous clients at SmashBox Photo Studios Los Angeles.

The studio is a place where celebrities, supermodels and top makeup artists come together. Now you can be a part of it too!

It's my deal of the week for you.

More Smashbox...

Illustration credit: noemi manalang @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/92119253@N00/4077834060/

What to Shop for in July: Get More for Less!

2010-07-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

July is a good time to buy a sofa. Furniture sales are big this month. The newer styles arrive in August. And how about a rug to go with that comfy couch?

This is the 8th post in a series of posts on how to get more for less. If you follow the retail sales calendar, you'll find the best bargains each month.

In July to get value for your money look for deals on:

Air Conditioners
Bathing Suits
Camping Equipment
Children’s Clothing (Summer)
Electronics: Radios and Stereo Equipment
Furniture: Sofa, bedroom sets etc.
Fuel (oil)
Handbags
Lingerie
Luggage
Major Appliances
Men’s Shirts
Men’s Shoes
Rugs
Sports Equipment
Sportswear
Used Cars

Don’t forget the "After 4th of July" Sales!

Each month I'll preview the next month's sales. Look for my next blog post in the series,"What to Shop For in August: Get More for Less!"

Check out: 10 Shopping Tips: Get More for Less! and What to Shop for in June: Get More for Less! for more money-saving tips.

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagobart/3684667717/

Deal of the Week: Trendy Yellow Satchel

2010-06-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

How about a little color in your wardrobe this summer?

"From sunshine to mustard, yellow is turning heads this season," said Elle. Yellow also showed big on the Fall 2010 runway. So you can take this bag from summer right into fall.

Yellow is my favorite color, so I'd love to give it a try.

This satchel adds a little pop to your style.

It's my deal of the week for you.

Nine & Co. Satchel: was $48.00 now $22.99 Sorry the yellow sold out!
Also available in Espresso and Black.

Anthropologie Sale: What Will You Find?

2010-06-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie is having a sale!

I've put together some fun things including--accessories, beauty, clothing, jewelry and home items. It almost feels like a fabulous flea market you've accidentally come across. Only everything is new and under $25!

Happy Shopping!

More Anthropologie...

Deal of the Week: Betsey Johnson's Jewelry for Summer Fun!

2010-06-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

Maybe because... summer starts in just a few days.

Maybe because... of the recent hot spell.

Or maybe because... today, I have that same excited feeling you get when you’re a kid and you know school is letting out, and you have the whole world in front of you.

Betsey Johnson--the free-spirited fashion designer--has that feeling all year round.

She hasn’t forgotten what it’s like to be that kid.

Maybe that’s why I want to share with you some of her playful jewelry.

It’s my deal of the week for you. Have a little fun today!

Flower Drop Earrings: was $30 now $21

Beatle Studs:was $25 now $12.50

Beatle/Gingham Flower Duo Necklace: was $45 now $22.50

Gingham Earrings: was $30 now $15.00

Large Flower Earring with Pearl: was $34.00 now $23.80

3 Row Key, Heart Charm Necklace: was $42.00 now $21.00

Long Chain Earrings with Charms: was $50 now $25.00

Padlock Earrings:was $30 now $19.99

Flower with Pearl Center Drop Earrings: was $30 now $21

Nice Stuff for Dad Under $25

2010-06-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

It's easier to find a gold nugget on the sidewalk, than to find a gift for Dad! But here are some possibilities at a good price:

More J.Crew...

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thetruthabout/4683765715/

Back to the Beach With Home Accessories from Roost!

2010-06-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

For me, the beach is the song in my head I play over and over again. I love driftwood and the salty stink of low tide. I love the ocean air that gives my hair a thick and messy texture and the beach sun that paints my tresses with lemony highlights. And I love to swim.

I bring the beach home with me.

I dump sand out of my paperbacks and bags. And as if the waves ebb and flow through my front door, and leave behind their watery treasures: You'll spot seashells, sea glass and smooth round stones scattered every where.

I tell a friend my living room style is French-Japanese-Beachy.

When I discover Roost I am a happy beach bum. Roost uses "authentic materials and finishes" like shells and wood. All their accessories are "handmade, small craft production." Like me they favor naturalism: botanicals, trees, birds and sea creatures.

Beautiful.

top to bottom:

Petite Shell Mirrors: $15-20

Sea Urchin Vases: $8-12

Tealight: $16.00

Cowrie Shell Salt and Pepper Shakers: $16

What to Shop for in June: Get More for Less!

2010-06-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

Looking for a bargain?

June is the month to replace that old refrigerator. Then, fill it up with yogurt, cheese and milk as June is National Dairy Month.

Also you'll find good deals for dear ole Dad. Don't forget his special day. Keep your eyes open for sales on tools, sporting goods, men's sportswear or high-tech items like computers and DVD players. You can keep costs down and make your father happy.

This is the 7th post in a series of posts on how to get more for less. If you follow the retail sales calendar, you'll find the best bargains each month.

In June to get value for your money look for deals on:

Building Materials (Lumber etc.)
CD’s
Computers
DVD Players
Fabrics
Fishing and Camping Gear
Gifts for Dad
Men’s Cologne
Men’s Sportswear
Refrigerators
Storm Windows
Swimsuits
Tools (Power Saws, Drills etc.)
TVs

Each month I'll preview the next month's sales. Look for my next blog post in the series,"What to Shop For in July: Get More for Less!"

Check out: 10 Shopping Tips: Get More for Less and What to Shop for in May for more money-saving tips.

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/markhillary/3659751646/

Deal of the Week: Dior/A Book on the Fashion Giant

2010-06-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

This beautifully illustrated book is the story of the French designer who started a fashion revolution: Christian Dior.

The designer rocked the fashion world in 1947 with his New Look: an hourglass silhouette with a long full skirt.

It's my deal for you this week, for a little luxury in your life.

Dior: was $30 now $19.

Off to the Beach! Me and My Old Navy Swimsuit!

2010-05-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm planning a little trip to the beach this holiday weekend. I bought this adorable one-piece paisley suit at Old Navy (it comes in 4 solid colors too!) Right now it's on sale for $19.00 originally $29.50. Unbelievable price! And fits me nicely. Can't wait to wear it.

CHECKLIST: I've got Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry Touch Sunblock 55. A hat. And my beach towel. I'm all set.

THE PLAN: to read my book Swimming by Nicola Keegan.

MY 3 GOALS:
1. To laze around.
2. Eat some coconut ice cream.
3. And maybe, just maybe I'll dip my toe into the water.

Happy Holiday!

Deal of the Week: Chunky Bracelets and More!

2010-05-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

This season for a "wow" accessory, you can't go wrong with...

Chunky/Cuff Bracelets...

Lucite Bracelets...

Multiple Metal Bracelets...

or Natural Stone Bracelets.

Bracelets are hot, hot, hot!

LUXemag says, "the more massive a bracelet, the better."

People Style Watch says chunky bracelets are a Top 10 Trend. They recommend you "pile up bangles and tough cuffs to go with glam dresses or jeans and T-shirt."

Lucite bracelets are another option. (See above picture. These colorful lucite bracelets were $52.00 now $16.00 from Max & Chloe.)

Stylecaster saw "plenty of lucite accents on the runways at shows like Prada, Louis Vuitton and Burberry."

Squidoo says natural stone bracelets are "this season's winning trend" for an eclectic look. It's one of my favorite choices.

So my dear friends, instead of one Deal of the Week, I have 12 for you!

Look for next week's Deal of the Week.

Happy Shopping!

CHUNKY/CUFF BRACELETS

Velline Bracelet: was $48.00, now $23.99

Cora Bracelet: was $16.90 now $9.99

Leigh Bracelet: was $34.00 now $16.99 (in silver too)

Coretta Cuff: was $28.00 now $24.50

Cuff Bracelet: was $39.00 now $24.00

MULTIPLE BRACELETS

Aqua Multi-Intertwined Bangles: was $28.00 now $16.80

Cavezon: was $12.00 now $9.98

Anne Klein Tri-Tone Bracelet Set: was $48.00 now $14.40

NATURAL STONE and LUCITE BRACELETS

Genuine Stone Stretch Bracelet: was $25 now $15.00

Large Stone Bracelet: was $18.00 now $10.80

Frosted Nugget Lucite Stretch Bracelet: was $35.00 now $15.75

7 Stylish Supplies to Help Organize Your Home Office!

2010-05-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

Desk Sets at Velocity Art and Design
Office Storage at Velocity Art and Design

Is your home office anything like mine?

Er... let's just say, I wouldn't invite Martha Stewart in. I'm not sure she'd like having to step over a pile of papers.

To solve that problem: Here are 7 colorful office supplies that will not only help you (and me!) get organized, but liven up your space.

You might find your work is a little more fun! And you might even be able to have Martha over.

Clockwise:

Wood Tape Dispenser: $20.40 was $24.00

Bird Folders: $14.00

Amy Butler List Pad: $7.50

Magazine Rack: $19.99

Amy Butler Expandable File: $20.00

Bird Paperclip Magnet: $17.00

Office Storage Boxes: $10.99-$13.99

Happy Shopping!

Deal of the Week: Flowie Makeup Bags

2010-05-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd try a new post that features stylish deals I've found each week.

Let's start with these Flowie bags.

Too cute!

These two adorable makeup bags are by textile designer Yaling Hou. The print is inspired by her own wedding bouquet.

The fabric is hand screened and sewn locally in the California Bay area. The bags come in two sizes.

Happy Shopping!

Pink and Brown Flowie Bouquet Makeup Bag: SPECIAL PRICE $14 for 6" bag was $26 and $16 for 8" was $28

Yellow and Green Flowie Bouquet Makeup Bag: SPECIAL PRICE $14 for 6" bag was $26 and $16 for 8" was $28.

Kmart's Got the Fashion Look: It's All About Mixing It Up!

2010-05-11T15:36:00.000-07:00

Kmart is looking good.

What I found is that this season Kmart is all about mixing fashion up--and it's all about smart style.

Kmart's VP of Women's Apparel says, "This look's all about mixing the unexpected--military with menswear, lady-like pearls with a funky denim vest, shortened pants with high heels--expect the unexpected."

At Kmart you can "expect the unexpected" and create entire outfits for less than $100. For the above outfit each of the individual pieces cost less than $25.

To create the look:
Route 66 Straw Fedora: $6.99 was $9.99*
Attention Woven Striped Shirt: $19.99
Route 66 Cotton Denim Vest: $14.99 was $19.99*
Route 66 Cargo Pants: $18.74 was $24.99*

Happy shopping!

* save 25% thru 5/15

photo credit: Kmart

Metallic Sandals: Summer 2010 Trend

2010-05-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

Metallic sandals shine brightly this summer. They are a big trend. I like the elegant gladiator sandals, above.

"They're as versatile as neutrals, but much more glam," says the April 2010 issue of People Style Watch.

Take a peek at these selections for under $25.00:

More Old Navy...

15 Gifts for Mom: Under $25

2010-05-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is around the corner. Yikes! What to get Mom?

Here are some suggestions under $25 that'll make your Mom happy.

THE TRAVELLER

Travel Journal: $18.00

Verbena Travel Set: $22.00

THE COOK

Julia Child's Kitchen Wisdom: $14.95

Coral Branches Measuring Spoons: $18.00

THE ATHLETE

Tree of Life Yoga Bag: $24.98

Water Bottle: $21.99

THE FASHIONISTA

Lattice Wrap: was $49.00 now $24.99

Christian Dior Style Guide: $19.95

THE GARDENER

Bird on Ball Finial: $24.00

Gardening Gloves: $20.00

THE BEAUTY QUEEN

Shower Gel Gift Set: $24.00

Nail polish Gift Set: $22.50

THE ENTERTAINER

Marimekko Coasters: $13.00

Fleur de Lis Creamer and Sugar Bowl: $10 each

FOR ALL MOMS: Just to Say I Love You

Love Necklace (Says I Love You in 3 ways -English, Austrian crystal and Chinese): $24.00

photo credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/midwestkimchee/ / CC BY 2.0

What to Shop for in May: Get More for Less!

2010-04-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Ahh, it’s spring. The tulips are out, the dogwoods are blooming. Maybe it’s time to do a little spring cleaning. May is when you can discover deals on home maintenance items to get your home into ship-shape. Shake out those cobwebs!

Or if you’d rather put off that spring cleaning, May is a great month to find good prices on jewelry too.

This is the 6th post in a series of posts on how to get more for less. If you follow the retail sales calendar, you'll find the best bargains each month. In May to get value for your money look for deals on:

Athletic Clothing and Shoes
Home Maintenance Items for Spring Cleaning
Furniture: Outdoor
Jewelry
Picnic and Barbecue Supplies: Mustard, Charcoal etc.
Purses
Silver
Tires
Watches
White Sale: Linens, Towels

And remember the Mother’s Day and Memorial Day Sales.

Each month I'll preview the next month's sales. Look for my next blog post in the series,"What to Shop For in June: Get More for Less!" Check out: What to Shop for in April: Get More for Less! and 10 Shopping Tips: Get More for Less!

photo credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29278394@N00/ / CC BY 2.0

Hair Accessories: The Look This Spring!

2010-04-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hair accessories are a fresh and lovely look this spring. The headwrap (above) is such a pretty style. You'll really turn heads.

This headwrap has a Grecian feel to it...

Beaded Headwrap: $18.00 now $4.99

Cute with a pixie cut...

Metal Leaf Headband (color: Silver Thin Leaf): $18.00

Bows are a big trend...

Lace Bow Headwrap: $18.00 now $6.99

Sweet...

Set of 2 Sequin Braided Headwraps (Color: White): $20.00 now $4.99

A Bohemian look...

Macrame Braided Headwraps: $16.00

These butterfly bobbies are adorable...

Butterfly Bobbies: $12.00

Coffee and Dessert for Four: Fabulous Tableware Part 3

2010-04-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

Time for coffee (tea for me) and dessert! We'll leave the dishes for later.

In my first two post in this series, Dinner for Four: Fabulous Tableware and Cocktail Hour for Four: Fabulous Tableware, I show you how to supplement your serving ware with a couple stylish pieces. When you have guests over you don't need to spend a lot of moola. Just a few accents will really freshen up your table.

My places to go are West Elm and CB2 for good prices and sensational looks.

So before we start, would you like one lump or two? Cream? sugar?

COFFEE HOUR AND OF COURSE, DESSERT (we can't forget that!)

The Menu

Coffee & Tea

Six-Minute Chocolate Cake*

fruit

*Note About the Six-Minute Cake. I love a chocolate dessert. I found this recipe in Moosewood Restaurant Cooks at Home. It's great because you can mix all the ingredients in the baking pan, and it's quick and easy. The Moosewood cookbook says that they first spotted the recipe in a 1976 House & Garden magazine. Which might explain why when I served it to my two aunties, one aunt was familiar with it. Also the recipe in my cookbook specifies unsweetened cocoa powder.

COFFEE AND DESSERT

These mugs are perfect for when you have guests. Quite unique...

Spoon Coffee Mug: $3.95 each or 4 for $15.80

Colorful dessert plates...

Dessert Plates: $2.95-$3.95

Here is another possibility... these would go great with the PATCH serveware I mentioned in PART 1.

Plates: Sold in sets of 4: $14-$18

Check my first two blogposts for Dinner and Drinks.

Now you're ready to have that party!

Cocktail Hour for Four: Fabulous Tableware! Part 2

2010-04-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

In my last blog post I set the table for a relaxed dinner party for four. You don't have to spend a fortune to pull off a winning look. Now we'll tackle cocktail hour. I'll start off by bringing out the drinks on this lovely tray. The tray complements the PATCH dinner party serveware from West Elm I mentioned in my last post. Cheers!

COCKTAIL HOUR

The Menu:

Drinks

Marcona Almonds

Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Spread with Pita Bread

Olives
(and I recommend Hors d'Oeuvres by Gillian Duffy for more appetizer ideas)

We'll find everything we need at affordable prices by dropping in at CB2 and West Elm. Are you ready for a chic cocktail hour, let's go!

Okay, these handblown glasses with the lovely colors go in the cart...

Old-Fashioned Glasses: $3.95 each

These too...

Tumblers: $3.95 each

Or if you're serving bubbly, the prices on these elegant handblown flutes are just too good to pass up...

Champagne Flutes: $2.95 each

And of course a bowl or two for snacks... I recommend filling one of the bowls with Spanish marcona almonds...

Snack Bowls: $10.95-$19.95

Okay, now a little plate for appetizers... these are great with a ring so you can balance your drink and a snack too!

Finger-food plate (set of 10): $9.95

And you're set!

Check out my last blog post Dinner for Four: Fabulous Tableware! to see what's for dinner. And look for my next piece, Coffee Hour!

Dinner For Four: Fabulous Tableware! Part 1

2010-04-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

I love to set a nice table when I have people over for dinner. Sometimes with just a few additional tableware pieces, like these stylish (above) NYC PATCH ceramic serveware pieces, you can really jazz up your get-together. And you don't have to break the bank.

Now that the weather is getting warm, er... hot even, with recent 90 degree temperatures in the NYC Metropolitan area, my thoughts are turning to entertaining.

A relaxed, and fun dinner for four perhaps?

The Dinner Menu:

Moroccan Chicken from The New Basics Cookbook by the authors of Silver Palate

Couscous

Carrots with Mint

Salad

White Wine

First we'll set the table... then in the next 2 posts I'll feature Cocktail Hour and Dessert and Coffee Time!

Let's go shopping.

We'll start at CB2, the sister store of Crate and Barrel, with its emphasis on affordable modern design. Then we'll check in at West Elm, a store focusing on contemporary home decor. We can mix and match pieces from both shops. With little effort you can really showcase your food. You'll make your guests feel extra special.

THE DINNER TABLE

Love these natural bamboo mats!

Tiki Placemats: $3.95 each

I fell for this tableware with its organic look

Petal Green Dinnerware: $2.95-$5.95

These napkins will look fabulous with the green dinnerware!

Rustle Napkin: $3.95 each

Stemless wine and water glasses are so unique...

Stemless Glasses: $1.95-$2.50

And in the center of the table, don't forget flowers. I love a big round vase dripping with tulips...

Put them right in here!

Bowl Vase: $14.95

I buy a ton of tealight candles and put them everywhere! It looks so pretty!

Tealight Candles: 50 for $7.95

Remember to check back in for Cocktail Hour and Dessert!

Ruffles For Spring and Summer: Be A Girly-Girl

2010-04-05T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a little girly-girl. I'm mad for ruffles this spring and summer.

WhatsWear says ruffles retook the runway and, "were presented in all shapes and sizes." Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Burberry and D&G all showed ruffles in their collections.

Today's ruffles are not big puffy things, they are more sophisticated.

You'll find me in ruffles too. I bought a cream colored cardigan and a pink tee with ruffles. Just lovely.

I picked out some clothing and accessories with ruffles for you.

Now you can channel your inner girly-girl, too.

More Newport News...

illustration credit: noemi manalang: http://www.flickr.com/photos/92119253@N00/ / CC BY 2.0