Mizhattan - Sensible living with style

Thank you and Farewell...

2017-01-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

After much thought and consideration, I have decided to write this farewell letter. Whether you recently discovered this website or have been following since the beginning, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for making this humble site a part of your daily read. What started out as a hobby on a whim because of my love for fashion and shopping turned into a great joy, passion, and labor of love for me. Without a doubt, it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To keep our memories alive (oh, what fun we had!) and in case of any future possibilities, I will keep Mizhattan online indefinitely and my inbox will always be open to all of you.

Thank you so very much for sharing in seven of the most incredible years of my life. I will miss you dearly.

Sincerely,

Mizhattan

Happy New Year!

2016-12-29T16:59:00.000-05:00

As we are beckoned into 2017, I want to wish my fellow Mizhattanites a very happy new year! I sincerely thank each and every one of you for your readership this year!

MIZHATTAN'S WEEKLY ROUNDUP

12/29
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*ALERT: The Limited is Closing All Stores
*Mizhattan's Year in Review: Best Windows of 2016

12/28
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*Mizhattan's Year in Review: Most Read Articles of 2016
*FAB AND GRAB*

12/27
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*Mizhattan's Year in Review: Sample Sales of 2016
*MIZDEAL* After-Christmas Sales Roundup

{Image credit: Vogue Italia}

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-29T16:58:00.000-05:00

The Everlane trench at Everlane.
Original $150 Now $105~$135

ALERT: The Limited is Closing All Stores

2016-12-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

The half century old American fast fashion chain The Limited (known for their insane sample sale) is shuttering their business. WWD reported late last month that the mall-based retailer was seeking a buyer in hopes of getting out of their financial troubles, but now it looks like their days are limited. The company closed down their Roosevelt Field location yesterday and will wind down business at their remaining stores come January. For bargain hunters looking to gobble up liquidation discounts, you will have to wait a little longer until their online markdowns drop. Currently, the site is only offering 50% off.

{Image credit: Orlando Sentinel}

Mizhattan's Year in Review: Best Windows of 2016

2016-12-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Without such creative window showcases lighting up the streets of Manhattan, the city would be one boring place, don't you agree? Whether it be department stores or designer boutiques, peeking at and photographing eye-catching displays is one of my favorite activities and I love sharing them with you. Here are my favorite five of 2016.

1. Saks Fifth Avenue in May.

2. SoHo in January.

3. Hermès in May.

4. Dover Street Market in June.

5. Fendi in July.

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-28T17:00:00.000-05:00

Wool sweater at Jil Sander.
Original $810 Now $324

Mizhattan's Year in Review: Most Read Articles of 2016

2016-12-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

As we near 2017, let's take a moment and look back at some of the articles published on Mizhattan this year. From Givenchy's Woodbury outlet opening to a fashion feature on Club Monaco's autumn knits, meet the top 10 most-read stories of 2016.

1. Givenchy opening at Woodbury in August.

2. Get Her Look on Gigi Hadid in February.

3. 1 Girl, 1 Bag, 5 Looks on Miroslava Duma in July.

4. Mansur Gavriel Shoe Collection in February.

5. MizGuide on Best of the Guests: What to Wear to Weddings in June.

6. MizGuide on Office Outfits with Cool Kicks in April.

7. Mizzy's Weekly Wardrobe on L.L.Bean Fisherman Sweater in December.

8. A Few of My Favorite Things in October.

9. Friday Frugal Finds: The E2 by Everlane in November.

10. Sweeter Sweater: Club Monaco's Autumn Knits in November.

FAB AND GRAB

2016-12-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

Fabulous Lotty leather satchel from Salvatore Ferragamo.
Grab this look from MICHAEL Michael Kors.

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

Erdem black mesh lace skirt at Ssense.
Original $1,170 Now $351

Mizhattan's Year in Review: Sample Sales of 2016

2016-12-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

Out of the 121 sample sales that I checked out and reviewed this year, there were some good, some bad, and some that were downright ugly. From yearly pandemoniums like Diptyque and Hermès to notable newcomers like Cire Trudon and Mac Cosmetics (and let's not forget the welcome return of Alexander Wang and DVF), 2016 was filled with commotion and surprises. Want to see who else made the list this year? Here is Mizhattan's Year in Review: The 10 Most Memorable Sample Sales of 2016.

1. Hermès in October
The queen of all sample sales takes the crown again this year. This time it wasn't because the sale offered remarkable merch (which they didn't) but rather for another record-breaking turnout. On the eve of opening day, more than 650 shoppers camped outside the sale despite the discouraging early word from VIPs. With such a long queue, many had to wait well over 8 hours to set foot inside. There's no doubt the Hermès sale is the be-all and end-all in terms of sample sales but it's sad to see this New York shopping treasure becoming more and more of a headache and havoc for all Hermès lovers.

2. Diptyque in February
We have a handful of scented candle sample sales here in NYC but none of them can compete with Diptyque when it comes to popularity and anticipation. With an endless line of shoppers braving the bitter February cold, this year's Diptyque shopathon proved once again how much NYers adore the brand and are willing to endure a lot to get their hands on some candles.

3. MAC Cosmetics in July
Beauty sample sales can often create frenzy amongst cosmetic connoisseurs but the first-ever MAC Cosmetics sale completely threw me off guard. Under the scorching July sun, well over 500 shoppers (the record-breaking turnout for an event held at the Metropolitan Pavilion) waited in line for hours on opening day just so they can be compensated with 60% off deals.

4. Alexander Wang in November
After a two year hiatus, the prince of downtown chic charmed his way back into the hearts of sample sale shoppers. Despite the long absence, prices thankfully did not go up. Alexander Wang's sought-after bags like Rocco, Brenda, Emile, Diego, and more were generously marked down to under $300.

5. Marc Jacobs in November
Just like an on & off switch, the back and forth between invite-only and open-to-the-public rages on at Marc Jacobs. Thankfully for 2016 the brand welcomed in the public and prices were more than impressive, too. Shoppers who attended the sale fully took advantage of the $250 & under offerings as well as the rare to find deals on beauty products.

6. Lanvin in June
C21 was on the quiet side this fall sample sale season but in the spring the downtown venue was rocking with big name brands like Lanvin. It was the French house's first-ever public sale and markdowns did not disappoint. Ready-to-wear, bags, shoes, accessories, and children's goods were 80~90% off.

7. Dolce & Gabba in October
Soiffer Haskin is known for higher pricing when compared to other sample sale hosts but this October's Dolce & Gabbana event took everyone by surprise. With markdowns of 80~90% off on the Italian brand's past season collections, shoppers indulged in a taste of dolce delight.

8. DVF in May
DVF, a longstanding sample sale staple, took a two year break from the bargain shopping scene and it was great to have them back this year. Their comeback party allured back fans with the same spectacular prices and a diverse selection of the brand's signature prints.

9. Gucci in October
Now that Gucci is hot again, you can imagine how desperate bargain seekers are to get inside the brand's exclusive sales. Sadly, this year's private event never saw a public opening, but those who were lucky enough to score an invite were treated to incredible discounts--word has it, all leather bags were only $300.

10. Cire Trudon in November
Surprisingly, the first-ever Cire Trudon sample sale did not attract as much of a crowd as anticipated but discount hunters who know a thing or two about scented candles definitely appreciated this rare bargain opportunity. Markdowns started at half off on the first day but eventually prices dropped several times towards the end.

MIZDEAL After-Christmas Sales Roundup

2016-12-27T10:00:00.001-05:00

Two things to celebrate this week: the big countdown to 2017 and final markdowns before 2017. Below is a quick roundup of all the after-Christmas sales you can indulge sans the guilt.

AllSaints
For a limited time only, enjoy 20% off on your purchase. Use code: MERRY

Calypso St. Barth
For a limited time only, take an extra 60% off on sale items.

Current/Elliott
Now through January 3rd, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA25

Equipment
Now through January 3rd, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA25

Free People
For a limited time only, take an extra 40% off on sale items.

J.Crew
Now through January 4th, take an extra 40~50% off on sale items. Use code: SHOPSALE

Joie
Now through January 3rd, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA25

Kate Spade
Now through January 4th, take an extra 30% off on sale items. Use code: SPRINKLES

Lancôme
Now through December 29th, save 20% off when you spend $49. Use code: THANKS

Laura Mercier
Now through January 1st, save 20% off when you spend $100. Use code: HOLIDAY20

L.K.Bennett
Now through January 4th, take an extra 40% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA40

L'Occitane
Now through December 30th, take an extra 10% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA10

Madewell
Now through January 12th, take an extra 30% off on sale items. Use code: BIGSALE

MZ Wallace
For a limited time only, take an extra 10% off on sale items. Use code: TIMETOSHOP

Rag & Bone
Now through January 4th, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: SALE25

Ralph Lauren
Now through December 28th, take an extra 30% off on select sale items. Use code: BOX

Rebecca Minkoff
For a limited time only, take an extra 30% off on sale items. Use code: HEY2017

Rebecca Taylor
Now through January 3rd, take an extra 30% off on sale items. Use code: WINTER16

Shopbop
Now through December 28th, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: TREATYOURSELF

Tory Burch
Now through January 9th, take an extra 30% off on sale items. Use code: EXTRA30

Trina Turk
For a limited time only, take an extra 20% off on sale items.

UGG
Now through December 30th, enjoy up to 50% off.

Vince
Now through December 29th, take an extra 25% off on sale items. Use code: GOODBYE2016

{Image credit: UGG}

Happy Holidays!

2016-12-21T16:59:00.000-05:00

Season's greetings! I wish each and every one of my fellow Mizhattanites a happy, safe, and relaxing holiday season. See you back here next Tuesday!

MIZHATTAN'S WEEKLY ROUNDUP

12/21
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*FAB AND GRAB*

12/20
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*Céline Bags on Sale at Century 21
*SALE HUNT* Victoria Beckham Winter Markdowns

12/19
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*SALE HUNT* Barneys Warehouse Extra Markdowns
*MIZZY'S WEEKLY WARDROBE* Charles & Keith Quilted Clutch

12/18
*SUNDAY WINDOW SHOPPING* Bergdorf Goodman (Dec. '16)

{Image credit: Harper's Bazaar UK, January 2017}

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-21T16:58:00.000-05:00

Harmony sandals at Giuseppe Zanotti.
Original $845 Now $422.50

FAB AND GRAB

2016-12-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

Fabulous fur-lined parka from Mr & Mrs Italy.
Grab this look from Zara.

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-20T17:00:00.000-05:00

Eyes crossbody at Anya Hindmarch.
Original $1,095 Now $547

Céline Bags on Sale at Century 21

2016-12-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

For fellow Mizhattanites on the hunt for Céline bags, let me direct your attention to Century 21's impressive selection of totes and shoulder bags that are available via their online store. Fans of Céline will be happy to know the French fashion house's newly introduced Tri-Fold handbags are available in beige and black, and they are marked down to $2,330 (originally $3,100). The brand's older classics such as the Phantom, Belt, and Luggage are also available at 25% off. The medium Phantom is priced at $2,550 (originally $3,400) while the micro Luggage is $2,520 (originally $3,350), and the mini Belt bag is $2,030 (originally $2,700). If you're interested in other brands, C21's designer selection has Fendi bags at 30~35% off, Saint Laurent at 35~40% off, and Tom Ford at 50% off.

{Image credit: Céline}

SALE HUNT Victoria Beckham Winter Markdowns

2016-12-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

It's discounts galore at Victoria Beckham! The British pop star turned celebrity wife turned fashion designer is running a winter sale via the brand's online store, and markdowns are a whopping 70% off. Aside from the obvious ready-to-wear, shoppers can find VB's accessories (bags, SLGs, and sunglasses) included in the discount. Some of my favorite pieces are the Classic Victoria Santa Monica aviator sunglasses for $285 (originally $950), natural python wallet for $269 (originally $895), mirrored metal clutch for $888 (originally $2,960), and tailored black wool coat for $930 (originally $3,100). There are lots more items to choose from, so feel free to browse their sale section and spice up your winter looks.

{Image credit: Vogue UK, October 2016}

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

Tube wallet at Fendi.
Original $650 Now $455

SALE HUNT Barneys Warehouse Extra Markdowns

2016-12-19T11:00:00.001-05:00

Now through January 1st, Barneys Warehouse is offering extra markdowns on designer labels, and there are some really great deals on hand. Shoppers can save an additional 40~60% off on already reduced prices, and the selection includes womenswear, menswear, shoes, handbags, accessories, kids, and home. Items worth noting include a black strapless jumpsuit from Zero + Maria Cornejo for $371 (originally $1,375), a white rib-knit sweater from Proenza Schouler for $287 (Originally $950), crystal ear jackets from Dannijo for $77 (originally $220), glittered strappy sandals from Gianvito Rossi for $191 (originally $795), a sequin skirt from Altuzarra for $1,799 (originally $12,000), ankle-strap flats from Chloé for $269 (originally $750), a navy peacoat from 3.1 Phillip Lim for $191 (originally $795), a pleated maxi dress from Gabriela Hearst for $389 (originally $2,595), a rib-knit sleeveless dress from Thom Browne for $360 (originally $1,200), suede & patent sandals from Paul Andrew for $257 (originally $795), and a fitted LBD from Lanvin for $503 (originally $1,690).

{Image credit: Barneys Warehouse}

MIZZY'S WEEKLY WARDROBE Charles & Keith Quilted Clutch

2016-12-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

A light pink quilted clutch from Charles & Keith. See how you can coordinate your wardrobe in 5 different ways with 1 item, under $100.

Monday Nightlife: Dazzle the night away in this fabulously festive party ensemble. To start, you can bring together a metallic fringed mini dress with a pair of satin sandals. Next, turn up the glamour even higher by throwing on a leopard-print fur coat. Now, make sure to keep the rest of your look simple with subtle accessories. Try Charles & Keith's quilted clutch, an ivory velvet choker, black eyeliner, and metallic nail polish.

Tuesday Date Night: This is how you do date night perfection. First, slip into an absolutely sexy one-shoulder red dress and combine with nude d'Orsay pumps. Wear some statement jewelry like crystal baroque drop earrings and a cocktail ring to add just the right amount of girlish charm. Finally, grab this week's pink clutch and reuse Monday's metallic nail polish.

Wednesday Casual: High comfort meets high style. Use these city-ready separates and luxe textures to create a casual winter look. A gray cashmere sweater, low-rise skinny jeans, and a beige sheepskin coat are throw-on-and-go staples. Add to this attire the Charles & Keith bag, diamond stud earrings, and some lip balm to complete today's ensemble.

Thursday Dinner Plan: Flummoxed as to what to wear to a holiday get-together? Nail the fancy dinner dress code with these foolproof fashion items: a pink ruffled dress, a white rabbit fur coat, a pair of crystal-embellished satin pumps, a floral necklace, this week's quilted clutch, and a spritz of fresh fragrance.

Friday Cold: Style out and keep out the December cold in 3 simple steps. Step 1: Put on a chunky wool-blend sweater and team it with cozy cashmere track pants. Step 2: Throw on a fur-trimmed army parka and slide your feet into shearling-lined sneakers. Step 3: Grab this week's pink clutch and incorporate minor yet important details like warm fingerless gloves and Wednesday's diamond earrings and lip balm.

{Other items used to create these looks: Rachel Zoe fringe dress, Maje leopard coat, Paul Andrew sandals, Joomi Lim choker, YSL Beauty eyeliner, RMS Beauty nail polish, Miriam Haskell drop earrings, Anabela Chan ring, Christian Louboutin d'Orsay pumps, Haney red dress, Lingua Franca gray sweater, L'Agence jeans, A.P.C. beige coat, Adina Reyter stud earrings, Zespa gray lace-up sneakers, Fresh lip balm, Sandro white coat, Valentino pink dress, Sophia Webster crystal pumps, Dior fragrance, J.Crew floral necklace, Étoile Isabel Marant pink seater, Chinti and Parker track pants, Mr & Mrs Italy army parka, Luisa Brini gloves, and M.Gemi shearling sneakers}

SUNDAY WINDOW SHOPPING Bergdorf Goodman (Dec. '16)

2016-12-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

What would the holidays be without Bergdorf Goodman's legendary windows?! For 2016, the art team at BG took inspiration from Henri Rousseau's paintings and trips to the American Museum of Natural History to build this enchanting, larger-than-life presentation. Creating drama and mystery from elements of the natural world (jungles, forests, and gardens) this year's theme, Destination Extraordinary, took six months to construct. Eager to see more? Click past the break and let Bergdorf's magic draw you into their magical fantasy world.

Happy Weekend!

2016-12-16T16:59:00.000-05:00

MIZHATTAN'S WEEKLY ROUNDUP

12/16
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*MIZDEAL* Neiman Marcus F&F Event
*SALE HUNT* Proenza Schouler Winter Markdowns
*FRIDAY FRUGAL FINDS* Twinkle Twinkle

12/15
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*SAMPLE SALE* Read My Lippes
*Countdown to Midnight: What to Wear on NYE

12/14
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*FAB AND GRAB*

12/13
*SAMPLE SALE* Hit the Sac
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*SALE HUNT* 2nd Markdowns at E-tailers and Department Stores
*SAMPLE SALE* Emm Kuo

12/12
*DEAL AT FIVE*
*SALE HUNT* Harrods Fashion Sale Preview
*MIZZY'S WEEKLY WARDROBE* Reiss Jacquard Mini Skirt

12/11
*SUNDAY WINDOW SHOPPING* Tiffany & Co. (Dec. '16)

{Image credit: Vogue, January 2008}

DEAL AT FIVE

2016-12-16T16:58:00.000-05:00

Chrissi jumpsuit at Reformation.
Original $138 Now $97

MIZDEAL Neiman Marcus F&F Event

2016-12-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

Desperate times call for desperate measures. After a very disappointing quarter, it looks like Neiman Marcus is trying every way possible to boost sales, and this can only mean good things for bargain shoppers. Currently, the upscale department store is holding a Friends & Family event for the first time ever, and select full-priced items are 20% off. I did a little bit of looking around this morning to see what kind of designer deals shoppers can score and was surprised to see their shoe offerings. Manolo Blahnik BB pumps and Hangisis (yay!) are included in the F&F as well as new arrivals from Stuart Weitzman, Common Projects, UGG, Jimmy Choo, and Alexandre Birman. In the handbag department, I found Nancy Gonzalez, Sophie Hulme, Alexander McQueen, Michael Kors, 3.1 Phillip Lim, VBH, Anya Hindmarch, Lanvin, Les Petits, and more. To receive the 20% discount, you need to enter code: FRIENDME at checkout. Just remember, this deal expires this Sunday, December 18th.

{Image credit: Neiman Marcus}

SALE HUNT Proenza Schouler Winter Markdowns

2016-12-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

Some of you may have noticed the Proenza Schouler sample sale has been absent for the last two seasons. Now, with the year almost at an end, it appears the brand will be skipping their popular bargain event for good in 2016. But don't worry PS fans as I have a happy ending to this sad story. The label is currently holding their winter sale, and markdowns on handbags are (surprise, surprise!) 65% off. As for what's available, the company's e-store has in stock PS1 medium satchels for $623 (originally $1,780) and perforated PS1 mediums for $659.75 (originally $1,885). There are also PS11 mini classics in black/orange stripes for $857.50 (originally $2,450) and Hava chain handbags for $773.50 (originally $2,210). As far as I'm concerned, this is the biggest discount Proenza Schouler has ever offered on handbags other than at their sample sales, so I would definitely consider taking advantage of the deals while you can. Happy Shopping!