Wow it has been an age hasn't it?

A lot of changes have come and gone through my life, so I took a bit of a break from shopping for clothing... not so much for other kinda of shopping though;)

I am a huge fan of DVD's series sets. They're great for when you're sick, keeping you occupied and they're fun to have because then you can watch them in order.

I usually use Target/Amazon.com to keep an eye on all the series' I want to buy. Many times I've gotten DVD's for under 10 dollars, or even 75 % off of the original price, simply by checking it every couple weeks, and making an effort to pass buy the DVD sets in Target whenever I'm there.

I've saved hundreds of dollars completing my DVD collection, simply by waiting, checking the price and buying together and saving on shipping.

So when you feel like taking a day off and watching a bit of tv, make sure to check amazon and see if you can't get a great deal on a DVD set, of the very same show you're watching on tv.

So dolls, it's been awhile. I'm sorry.

Now that I'm busy on the weekends, It's tough to catch the sales.

However I must remind everyone that Consignment is your friend. Consignment is good.

I no longer buy new unless it's something that I must, because of the ick factor and because I can't find it used.

Recently my finds have been a Cole Haan purse (authentic) for 19 dollars because of a couple makeup stains inside the pocket and an Ella Moss dress for 25, brand new.

On another note I recently bought two citronella candles from Restoration Hardware. They were miss-priced and thus I got them for 75% off. I was originally only going to buy one, but after asking her if I'd get the same price for the second, I splurged.

Never be afraid to ask, for some more if they made a mistake. Sometimes legally they have to give it to you, sometimes they just don't care.

An example of this was about ten years ago when I purchased a bear at Macy's or some such alike store. It rang up as one cent due to some glitch in the computer (90's computers). A small bear with removable camo hat and jacket. For one cent.

So I bought five and gave them to people.

Never be afraid you'll make a tiny fool of yourself or be looked at strangely for getting a great deal. If nothing else you'll have a great story.

Free Makeup

I hope several of you took advantage of the free makeup at Bloomies, Saks, Nordstrom and Macy's.

If you havent recieved yours, here's the gist. Because of a settlement they have been giving one item of your choice (or whats left) to each customer who simply puts her name and signature on a list and stands in line.

I ended up getting a couple Clinique Fresh Surges, a Mascara and a Coco Chanel lotion which is a whole lotta smell in a whole little dab.

Giveaways and free, are what I live for.

30% is not enough

So, since everything is on sale nowindays I have some advice instead of sales.

The Advice:

Don't settle for 30% off. 30% is NOT enough.

I know everyone gets excited for sales, I do as well. However, the thrill of on sale sometimes overshadows that you just aren't getting that great of a deal.

You should be checking the sections in stores that you know have clearance. The very very back of the store or in jewelry, the special box. These items usually are anywhere from 50-75% off, they are the best deal in store.

To be truthful, in these economic times, 30% is just not enough.

We're learning to hold out for more. Wait for the retailers to get desperate, because they WANT to sell to you. You just have to wait until they're offering the item at something you actually want to pay.

Tools for Great Deals

One of the best tools you have for getting a great deal is your voice.

It sounds strange, but talking to someone about the price you think you should have, and sticking to it or even telling them you'd love to buy the item, just not at that price is how many people get great deals.

Several years ago at Best Buy I bought a lemon computer. For years it plagued me, and when I could finally scrap it out, the people who were working there refused to give me the computer I wanted that ran about 500 dollars less than I had originally paid for the lemon.

I originally had been told by management that I could exchange it for any computer up to the purchase price of the lemon, but when at the store I had to stick to my guns and deal with an hour long conversation of, "I want this, I won't take anything less, I was promised this, " because they decided they could only give me an outdated, exact copy of my computer... that's worth was about 700 dollars.

Well, being me, I didn't want anything like the original. So I stuck to my guns and patiently let them run around while I examined my new computer. In the end I was offered the computer I wanted just to get me out of their hair, AND I was given a copy of windows vista home in case I wanted to switch from the vista that came with the computer.

Now there's a difference between irrational screaming and demanding and patiently stating your case, sticking to your guns and waiting. Practicing the second will get you great prices, practicing the first may land you in jail.

Good luck with the great deals!

The Christmas time is upon us and the sales are free flowing. I would recommend opening a new email address and going to all your favorite stores and getting e-mail updates. Many times they send discounts and coupons.

So for a party I was throwing I decided to drop into Macys on the advice of a friend to look for a new dress.

And I am really really glad I did.

I ended up getting a gorgeous Maggy London silk dress for 30 dollars. It fits like a dream, the color is complimenting, and it was originally priced at 158 dollars. That's 5 times what I paid!

I also needed to go shopping for a friend's birthday. My local Macy's always has a basket filled with small plastic bags full of ultra-clearance jewelry in the jewelry section. There I found a Sterling Silver Onyx cross necklace that was perfect for her.

Originally priced at 80 bucks it was clearance priced at 20 bucks. But after a 50% off discount not labeled on the bag and a 20% discount in store, I got the perfect gift for 8 dollars.


I don't search for sales much and even if the item is a great price I don't usually buy it unless I need it. But knowing where the best area in a store to find sale items is a must.

I also must say that as many people who rave about Online sales, I am one who much prefers to do my shopping in store. I have found that the Ultra-clearance items will not be listed online. These are the jewelry/ designer clothing pieces that though they have nothing wrong with them, they have been removed from their sale counter. Either by discontinuing or simply less space.

So those are my awesome purchases for this week.

I'd encourage you to go scour your local Macy's and see if you can't find a couple greats deals for yourself.

I know you're all wondering how Black Friday went.

I was actually sick. But I did manage to do a little consignment shopping in between Vitamin C shots. I picked up some gorgeous sling-back Ann Klein shoes for 6 dollars and two pairs of Italian pumps for the same.

(Pics will be posted later)