Rita Tesolin Jewellery holiday sample sale

What?


Rita Tesolin Jewellery holiday sample sale

Canadian jewellery designer Rita Tesolin is having a holiday sample sale with up to 90% off her regular prices and below cost. You’ll find a mix of goodies including array of one-of-a-kind belts, costume, sterling silver and semi-precious jewellery. New items added daily.

Where?
63 Wingold Ave., Suite 103 (map)
Toronto

When?
Friday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 20, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Cash only!

Marc by Marc Jacobs catches my eye

I’ve been whining about my sunglasses for at least the past year. I wanted a change but hadn’t found the right pair: something fashionable, yet not equal to half a mortgage payment; something that suits my face, yet fits the bridge of my nose… you get the picture.

Not that I always want the newest, shiniest pair I can find but the ones I’ve been wearing for the past several years were getting tired looking and the lose arm just kept getting looser no matter how much I fixed it. Check out the picture my friend Alexa Clark took of me wearing my at the post-BookCamp get together below and you’ll see what I mean.

So, last week, with a bit of cash in hand from a birthday gift, I walked in Holt’s on Bloor and headed straight for the sunglass display. Presto, within five minutes I found the perfect pair of Marc by Marc Jacobs – oversized by not exaggerated. As my husband said, “Big, but not too big”. As Goldilocks would say, “They’re just right.”

When I got home that night I wondered why after looking for a new pair for so long, I was able to find the right pair within minutes. Was the selection that different? Was it my frame of mind?

Hmm, I thought some more. Then it occurred to me. It’s the way Holt’s merchandises their sunglasses that made the difference. Hundreds of pairs were on the wall. How was I able to sort through them so quickly? I’m convinced it had to do with the airy feel and the room between each pair along with more than lighting. Perhaps not so eco-friendly but definitely customer-focused.

What about you? Have any examples of smart merchandising to share? Oh yeah, and what do you think of my new shades?

photo credits
top photo: Mr. B
bottom photo: Eden, Lex, Gerry & Sue by lexnger on flickr

Connie Crosby's quest for an HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition digital clutch

I wrote the OneDegree Week in Review (WIR) post last week and you know what they say, timing is everything.

On the heels of co-presenting at PodCamp Halifax with my speaking and podcasting partner, Connie Crosby, and the other camps that took place that weekend, WIR focused on the camp movement. So, when I received a social media news release (SMR) announcing the new HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition digital clutch was now available in Canada at BestBuy, I included a link to the SMR in my post.

Connie was in the market for a PC. She read my post, watched the video about the new digital clutch netbook and she ended up with an interesting story to tell. Here’s our interview…

Connie, I think it’s fair to say you’re a bit of an Apple fan girl. Why were you looking at PCs?
One of the things I do as an information consultant is conduct online product reviews for clients, primarily in the legal industry. Because the legal market primarily uses Windows and Internet Explorer, I need to be using that environment also for my reviews. I could have set myself up with Windows for Mac but it is helpful when working to either have the online product running on one machine, and be writing the review on another, or at least having two screens for more working space. I figured that some of the notebooks and even laptops are fairly inexpensive so wanted to check those out. I was looking for something with Windows already included (I didn’t really care which version), wireless capability, and an Intel chip. I wasn’t fussy about battery life or whether it had MS Office or a webcam included.

Which computers were you considering and why?
I originally saw a basic Acer laptop at The Source for only $450 just after New Year’s. That is the price I had stuck in my head. But then last week I saw the Mini HP Vivienne Tam edition mentioned on the web. They were advertising it as a “technology clutch purse” although it is actually a netbook. I am probably the perfect demographic for this netbook – a woman who loves technology and tries to be fashionable. From the photos, it looked stylistically like quite a nice machine. And being a netbook, I thought I could justify the extra cost – it was going for about $800 – since it would be good for travel to conferences when I didn’t want to carry my full Macbook Pro. But really, it was the style of it that attracted me. And Best Buy Canada, who was selling it, was including a special cover for it and matching wireless mouse, so that sweetened the deal.

The HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition digital clutch looks great in the photos and video I received as part of a social media news release. How does it compare in real life?
When I first saw it I was disappointed. It did not bode well that, even though this was the big “launch” of this supposedly unique machine, it was plunked in amongst all the other netbooks and notebooks on the store display without anything identifying it as special. When I found it, I discovered the look and feel of the machine was not as special as some of the photos led me to believe. A lot of the HP machines have a sleek, pearlized or metallic finish. Instead, this was plastic with what seemed like a flower decal on it. It seemed more like a child’s toy than a fashion accessory to me.

I hunted around to see the special cover and mouse that was part of the deal, but couldn’t see them on display. The store was quite busy (this was a Saturday afternoon) with a number of people looking at this and other machines, but there were not a lot of sales clerks around. I finally found someone and asked about the special offer. He didn't know anything about it, but went to the back to ask. He came back with a typical gray neoprene laptop cover and told me it would like like that in red. I was doubtful and so asked to see the case and mouse, but was told they were in the box and I would have to buy them before I could see them. He wouldn't open a box to show me. I was already disappointed, and this poor service sunk the deal for me. I had a friend with me, and she wasn't exactly impressed either. I left the store without considering any of their other machines.

I’m sure in the past, you didn't need to think much about where to buy a computer. How did you decide where to go and what was your experience like?
I knew that Best Buy had the exclusive rights to the Vivienne Tam special edition, but thought I would see what else I could find that suited my needs. I headed to Future Shop. They had an HP representative on hand who was quite helpful, who helped me find one of their machines for about $550 that he said was basic and was all I needed. But then he handed me to a Future Shop representative to close the deal, and that person pushed hard to up-sell me to a more expensive machine. I left that store unimpressed, and decided to go back to The Source to see if the Acer I had originally seen was there. It was, although the sale had ended.

What did you end up buying?
The Source had another end of the line Acer laptop they were clearing out for $500. I found a sales clerk, and she was quite patient with me answering my questions. At this point, I decided the price was right and I liked the service I got, so that is what I purchased. So far I am happy with it, and glad I did not spend the extra money on the HP netbook.

What about YOU?
Does this video inspire you to check out the HP Mini Vivienne Tam Edition? Have you seen it yet? If so, what did you think? Would you consider buying a fashionable laptop or netbook? Leave a comment.

TFBB Zola aka Zola Annual Dot Sale

What?
Zola Annual Dot Sale – sale footwear from $35-$150 ($65 for last pair)
Sigerson Morrison, Patrick Cox, Claudia Ciuti, Cesare Paciotti, Missoni, Diana Broussard, Michel Viven, Joeffer Caoc and many more are all marked down as far as they can go!

When?
• Jan. 9-31
• TFBB Zola (gathering of TFBB shoe lovers): Jan. 16 at 2:30 p.m., RSVP

Where?
Zola
1726 Avenue Rd. (map)
Toronto, ON

If you go, leave a comment and let us know what you find.

Toribellas’ Jewelry open house

I used to work with Laura. She’s a great woman who started making her own jewelry and started selling other popular lines under the Toribella banner as well. Laura asked me to invite you to her open house this weekend.

We’re also working together to bring you some specials in the new year when she launches Toribella Designs new website. Stay tuned for exciting details.

What?
Toribella Designs is hosting it’s annual Holiday Open House
“Because you can never have enough jewelry”

Enjoy your holiday shopping in a relaxed and fun atmosphere without battling the crowds at the mall!

Toribella will have a wide selection of jewelry from some of Canada’s finest jewelry designers including:
• Bejewel
• Liss Designs
• Glam Julz
• Triple “C”
• BellaDonna; and,
• Foxy Originals.

They will also be showcasing their Columbian Inspirations line of fine sterling silver jewelry and assorted evening bags, silk pashminas, ESPE wallets and accessories.

Toribella supports Canadian entrepreneurs and Canadian handcrafted products – over 90% of their products are made in Canada.

When?
• Nov. 30: 2 p.m.-5 p.m.

Where?
156 Pemberton Rd. (map)
Richmondhill, ON

If you go, leave a comment and let us know what you find.

Hand-crafted gold jewelry sale

What?
Hand-crafted gold jewelry by Israeli designer, Sholmit Lavi

When?
Sunday, Oct. 19
11:oo a.m.-5 p.m.

Where?
1075 Spadina Rd. (See map)
Toronto

Let us know what you get if you go.

iPods piss me off

Now that I’ve got your attention…

If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you probably know I’m a bit of an Apple fan girl. This week alone, I bought two iPods as gifts for family members and I bought my husband one for his birthday last year.

Yes, iPods and iTunes have dramatically changed the music industry and the way we consume music, not to mention other forms of multimedia. As far as the technology goes, they are phenomenal. I just don’t understand why they don’t come with everything you need in the box.

Okay, I can understand them not coming with car adapters but why do we need to buy cases too? I swear the little case I just bought for an iPod nano looks like it costs about $2 to make and sells for $25-$30. Can’t Apple either make iPod exteriors with scratch-resistant materials or include basic cases so we don’t need to shell out more cash for them?

Black studded cuff bracelet: a real steal

While Mr. B was in line at Banana Republic paying for two great casual summer shirts at 60% off, I found this amazing chunky black studded cuff bracelet on sale. It originally sold for $65 so for $12.99 (that’s 80% off), I couldn’t resist.

There are some incredible bargains this time of year. Have you had any great finds lately?

If the shoe fits… Buy it online

Note: I hope you enjoy this guest post from my twitter friend Kelly Rusk who loves shoes almost as much as Carrie Bradshaw.

Being addicted to beautiful shoes AND frugal is a tough combination. Add in living in a city that’s not exactly considered fashion-forward (Ottawa), and you’re in big trouble.

While I make do, I had been tinkering with the idea of buying shoes online… Actually “obsessing” might be a more accurate word. But after shipping, taxes and duties, it looks to be a big rip-off for any Canadian. And what happens if you have to return them? A scary thought. However, my first online shoe buying experience was nothing but pleasant. Was it sheer luck? Maybe. But I like to believe I had a solid strategy behind my purchase, which has inspired this guest contribution to Bargainista.

First, before you start buying online I suggest going out and trying on A LOT of shoes. Heck, buy a few pairs while you’re at it! Basically you’ll want to have a good understanding of what styles look good, which brands are comfortable to you, etc. I went with this stunning pair by Chinese Laundry because I’ve had a few pairs of varying styles and each has always been one of my favourite pairs of the day.

For Canadians, buying anything online can be a little scary. However, I believe shoes are probably one of the more high-risk online fashion buys. Any shoe aficionado likely knows you buy probably 5 pairs of shoes for every one pair you really love and wear all the time. When purchasing online, you pay extra for shipping, duties, taxes etc., so you want to be sure you’re getting the right pair.

I bought my shoes from Canada.zappos.com, which was an excellent experience except for a few quirks:

1. Shoes include an “import” tax, which you don’t see until you’re checking out.

2. If you want to return your shoes, Zappos makes it super easy BUT it costs $15 and (correct me if I’m wrong) you don’t get the import tax back either. So you’re looking at around $ 40 to return.

3. Shoes are all priced in US dollars, which isn’t a big difference right now, but still it all adds up.

So, my shoes, which were listed as $73, I actually ended up paying $108 for, however, they were worth every penny. They successfully survived (err, I should say my feet did) a night on the town, and I’m looking forward to many more.

Note, I honestly tried to find other recommendations for stores to buy from, but in terms of selection, price, quality and service, it just keeps going back to Zappos! I definitely won’t argue it’s fantastic, but I’d also love to hear any suggestions for other online stores.

Capezio Sale - up to 50% off

What?
Capezio sale up to 50% off

Where?
Stores throughout the GTA and online

When?
Now!

Bargainista Moment:
I bought two pairs of new shoes on Saturday at regular price. They are now on sale. I called the store and since I still have my bill and they were both purchased at the regular price, as long as I go back within 10 days, they’ll refund the difference. Yay!

Difference = $42 + tax (not anywhere near 50% off but I’ll take what I can get.)

Loving LittleMissMatched

Ever buy a pair of socks and lose one?
How about poking a hole in one while the other is perfectly fine?
Do you like the idea of having soft and cuddly feet adorned with cheery colours on a dark dreary day?

If you’re answer was “Yes” to any of the above, check out LittleMissMatched.

I first discovered LittleMissMatched at my favourite toy store. The bright display tree filled with trios of fluffly, unmatched girls socks and gloves, in playful patterns and bright cheery colours, caught my eye. No adult sizes. Bummer!

Saturday, I took a long walk. I under estimated how cold it was outside and needed something to cover my ears. They were literally burning from the cold. I went into Out on a Limb, a cosy boutique with all kinds of goodies catering to the trendy set with full wallets.

Winter accessories were regular price while all other winter clothing was 50% off (lots of cool items left in stock, you should check it out). How disappointing! They knew they could take advantage of suckers like me who were left out in the cold.

While paying for a pair of earmuffs, I spotted a basket of brightly coloured mis-matched socks and gloves at the cash. I was lucky enough to snag the last package of LittleMissMatched socks in the store!

They weren’t on sale and at $18 they weren’t cheap either (especially compared to $14 online in the U.S.) They were oh so cute. I figured what the heck and decided to treat myself.

So what’s the deal, what makes LittleMissMatched socks remarkable?
• You get 3 to a pack so if you lose one, you’ll still have a mate, solving the age-old problem of the disappearing sock (or glove)
• Your socks are never the same, yet they always (mis)match
• They’ll invite your inner-child to come out and play
• You can either submit your own design or help choose one
• If you have lots of time, you can hang out on her website and blog for hours ;)

I’m somewhat ticked they won’t ship to Canada but they will send me a list of retailers in my area. If you do live in the U.S. and sign up for the email list, you’ll get a free pack of socks with your first order and chances to win more goodies if your friends join the mailing list too.

By the way, LittleMissMatch sells a lot more than socks. Is this a cool concept or what?

Tip of the Week - Green shopping

Mish invited me for coffee the other day. She said she had something to show me and proceeded to pull a small green nylon pouch from her purse. It was about the size of a large cell phone or small digital camera but it was something else altogether different.

For a mere $5, she purchased a Reisenthel mini-maxi nylon shopping bag at Solutions that folds up into it’s own little carrying case. It weighs next to nothing and is small enough to fit into a small purse. Best of all, when Mish goes shopping she can open it up and fit lots of stuff inside. Boy, do I need one of these. ; )

I did a little research and learned award-winning design firm, Reisenthel has a whole line of shopping bags. I even found a post Kim Vallée had written about some of their other bags last spring. You can also find Reinsenthel bags at goneshopping.ca, but I didn’t see the one sported by Mish on their site.

Green bags come in many colours and aren’t just for groceries anymore!

Do you carry a “green” bag when you go shopping or do you keep one in your purse just in case? If you don’t, do you think this post has convinced you to reconsider?

TV show host needed: must love shoes & bags

I had an awesome request from Sonya Jampolsky of Ocean Entertainment the other day. She’s looking for a shoe-a-holic, bag-lover to host a new TV show she’s developing. Is this the dream job you’ve been waiting for? Take the quiz. This may be your lucky break!

In case you’re wondering, Ocean Entertainment is the same production company responsible for the Gemini Award winning Chef at Home with Michael Smith.

Interested? Contact Sonya directly. Make sure to let us know what happens.

Technorati tags: Ocean Entertainment, Sonya Jampolsky, TV host

Michelle Yorke Jewellery Designs

I discovered Michelle Yorke’s jewellery during my trip to Halifax. While at Lady Luck, a wonderful accessories shop located at the Historic Properties, I found a display case of Michelle’s collection. It reminded me of the fabulous Anita Cuff. It was my first full day in town and I wasn’t ready to part with my money.

I learned Michelle was a regular at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings. The market is a favourite brunch spot whenever I’m in town, this visit was no exception.

Thanks to my aunt’s pre-brunch scouting, I found Michelle’s table. I felt like a kid in a candy store – she had a ton of stuff – there was everything from bracelets, to rings, watches, hair accessories, necklaces and watches. Every piece is made by hand from beads (glass, semi-precious stones or wood) intricately woven together with nickel-free stainless steel. Best of all, she offers it at wholesale prices. I picked up a great watch and a barrette.

I saw other pieces of her collection in a couple other galleries at higher prices. She has made quite a name for herself throughout the province. She’s been a member of the Nova Scotia Designer Crafts Council since 2001, I can see why. I’ve had nothing but compliments on my watch. Best of all, it’s a one-of-kind piece of art from my hometown.

Technorati tags: Halifax Farmers’ Market, Historic Properties, Michelle York Jewellery Designs

Weekly wish – Roots uptown bag

Every now and then, I regret some of my shopping decisions. Like last spring when Roots had weekend sale with 25% off everything in the store.

I thought I wanted a new purse, a black one similar to my Coach bag, small with a shoulder strap. I was rushed and figured I’d have another chance during the summer sale. Wrong!

By sale time, some purses in funky colours were available but the black ones were gone. Of course, Roots upped it’s game by introducing some new designs at regular price. I like the new Uptown Bag in black patent leather. I'd like it even more if it was in prince leather. No sale, no rush. I thought maybe if I wait...

I may get at least part of my wish after all. This morning I received a coupon for 25% off new merchandise from now through August 12. I haven’t found a prince version of the bag online, maybe I’ll find it in the store.

If you’re wishing from something new from Roots this weekend, you’re in luck. I’m also sharing my coupon with you. If you use it, let me know what you buy.

Do you have any regrets for not buying something this summer? What’s your weekly wish?

Technorati tags: Coach, Roots, Uptown Bag

Zola Midsummer Dream Warehouse Sale

Check out Zola’s first annual Midsummer Dream Warehouse Sale:

What?
• Opening night shopping party
• Up to 80% off all seasons
• Enjoy treats & party favors

When?
• Thursday, June 21: 8:00 p.m. - midnight!
• Sale continues through July 8

Where?
Zola
• 1726 Avenue Rd., Toronto (map)
• 416.783.8688

Technorati tags: zola

Acccessories shopping on a sunny Saturday

Yesterday I checked out three different accessory stores in the Yonge street strip between Eglinton and Lawrence...

Heidi Ho²
Heidi Ho² is really one of those rare hidden gems with a small nondescript storefronts. It’s a one-of-a-kind boutique with jewelry, clothing and other accessories that aren't mass produced.

Heidi has impeccable taste and a suggestive sales style others only dream of. She’s so good, I tried things I didn’t even need but am glad I found. I bought a great necklace for 40% off (selected jewelry is on sale) and a Dee...complete by Delicious tee for $20. Heidi definitely won me over. What style!

Accessorize
If you’ve never been to this cheap ’n cheerful accessories shop imported from the UK, you really should check it out. They always have new stuff that you won’t see everywhere else (and even a girls’ line for mother and daughter shopping). I checked out hair accessories and necklaces. The sales help was attentive, not pushy.

I ended up buying some hair clips and realized I didn’t have my loyalty card. No problem, they just looked up my last name on their computer and I got my discount. What service!

Just Cuz
I was never a big fan of this store but bought a gift there ages ago and wanted to exchange it for a higher-priced item. I knew it was past the deadline. But what the hey. Like my grandmother used to say, “nothing but ask”. So I did and bought something four times the price of the original item.

Next I wanted it gift wrapped - well they give away ribbon and tissue paper but you have to buy the bags. I asked if I could have a small box for another item I purchased elsewhere and wanted to include with the gift. They were so rude about it but gave in to my request in the end. Anyone can be bought - my cost $1. What nerve!

Where do you buy accessories? Have some stories to share? Leave a comment.

Technorati tags: Accessorize, Just Cuz, Heidi Ho

Weekly wish - new shoes

There’s nothing I’d like to buy more right now than a few new pairs of shoes or sandals. I’m so discouraged at this point, one pair would do.

I love shoes, especially new ones but I have a tough time finding a pair that are:
• in style
• affordable
• available in my size
• the right colour

Last weekend, I checked out three shoe stores. Zola was incredible and had me drooling but at $500+ for a pair of flat sandals; it was out of my range.

Nine West had several fabulous styles with heel heights that were high enough without looking like I work on Jarvis St. at night but nothing fit properly... and I tried at least half a dozen.

I’m no Goldilocks so the third store (Rockport - don’t laugh) wasn’t right either. There was a nice basic black sandal, sophisticated enough for the office and comfortable enough for weekend walking. Wouldn’t ya know, they were out of my size. I could have bought a brown pair but they were a dull shade and I just wasn’t feeling them.

To make matters worse, I never saw enough staff on hand to provide adequate customer service.

Today I’m wishing for my own personal shopper so I’ll have two happy feet and ten twinkling toes sparkling bright in a new pair of shoes.

Technorati tags: Nine West, Rockport, Zola Shoes

Esprit warehouse sale starts Wedneday

What?
• Esprit Warehouse Sale
• Save up to 80% off on Esprit collection for men and women
• Also, save on premium quality JOCKEY underwear and socks men, women & kids
• Courtesy of StyleDemocracy

When?
May 9-May 11: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
May 12-May 13: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Where?
The International Centre - Hall 4 (map)
6900 Airport Road at Derry Rd
Mississauga

Technorati tags: Esprit, Jockey

Your Favourite Warehouse Sale - May 10-12

What?
• Your Favourite Warehouse Sale
• Up to 70% off clothing, accessories, gifts galore
• Print and bring this flyer to save an extra $5 off purchases of $50 or more

Where?
70 Wingold Ave. (map)
Toronto
(Entrance and parking in the rear of the buildingº

When?
May 10-May 11: noon to 7 p.m.
May 12: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Technorati tags: accessories, clothing, gifts, shopping, warehouse sales