The Best Sweater Ever...

This, my friends, is The Best Sweater Ever.

A couple of weekends ago, Land's End ran a 30% off clearance sale and I thought I'd take a chance on this striped boyfriend cardigan. After reading the reviews, I figured it'd be long enough (as TBS is 6'0" tall) but also light enough to layer. I got it in pine/turquoise stripe. So very me. Now I want all flavors of it (*praying Mr TBS isn't reading this*)*

I'm pleased to share that I'm wearing it today with dark wash jeans (cuffed nicely, of course), a white tank and a pointed to cheetah flat (loooooooovvvveee to texturize).  Today's the first day this week in Atlanta when it's not 80 degrees at 8 AM so I'm enjoying the crisp morning.

What's your favorite sweater type?

Watch This!

I'm moved by these online sample sale websites like OutNet, One Kings Lane and Gilt Groupe. Though the offerings are most always fabulous, I rarely bite.  No particular reason except the inventory is usually depleted when I get around to remembering to shop.

Daily Candy has a new site called, Swirl. I am fawning all over these watches by TKO.  I am just fine with my everyday watch, a classic (and simple) Gucci. I guess I'm boring that way.  I'm beginning to wonder if I need a fun timepiece and if I should seize one in this TKO collection. Is a pink watch too much? Look around here...maybe it isn't.  Are pink watch wearers taken seriously?

Should I or shouldn't I? The pricepoint is hard to turn down. It's originally $125 but being offered for $70.

Do you wear a classic or "fun" watch? 

Scout It Out!

Today is the launch of the new Atlanta deals site, Scoutmob! Since I'm always hunting for the latest discount for dining and entertainment, this one is sure enough right up my alley.


Per the folks at Scoutmob, their portal aims to take the concept of ‘group-buying’ to a new place, with one awesome deal a day sent to email and iPhone followers (yes, there’s already an app!) Each deal will be redeemable at a local business via mobile phone. There’s no buying up front -- just the promise of mobile deals and the incentive to get out and do more in Atlanta.

And to add to the local curiosity, Scoutmob comes with weekly content and interesting tidbits to keep followers in-the-know on cool stuff and fascinating people -- the kinds of things that make Atlanta unique.

Do you use any group coupon sites? If so, which ones and which do you like the best?

Follow Up To TBS TV: Gareth's Winter Dance Ensemble

As it turned out, Gareth's haircut ran longer than we thought as he prepared for Sunday's dance.  Unfortunately, we were unable to get any video footage before we had to whisk off to the picture party and then the kids to their dinner reservation.  I am happy to share a picture of Gareth and his friend, Libby, before they left the pre-dance festivities.

Gareth is wearing his $7.50 Emanuel Ungaro suit navy pinstripe suit and a $4.00 blue pinpoint Brooks Brothers shirt from the Salvation Army Store and a $45 Sid Mashburn silk bowtie.  He was excited about how well his ensemble pulled together. I also spent $15 on hemming the suit's pants.  At the end of the day, I spent about $72.  That works for me.

Had I paid retail, I'd have spent at least $150 for a suit (did you notice that it was originally $500?!) and $40 for a shirt.

The pep in Gareth's step? Priceless. Sorry, MasterCard.

Thanks for everyone's kind comments.

The Broke Socialite's End-Of-Year Virtual Yard Sale! EVERYTHING $35

Hey y'all!

I've picked up some fabulous denim while thrifting over the past few weeks and thought that I'd give first dibs here on the blog before posting them on eBay.  Here is how it will work:

(1/4/10-Post Script: If I don't get rid of these jeans and suits, Mr TBS will never let me go near another thrift store again. We, of course, can't have that! Everything is $35 including shipping! Have at it!)

1. If you're interested or need more details about a certain items, email me with you offer or questions via shameeka {at} thebrokesocialite {dot} com.  I confess that Mr TBS is not home and I am not the best photographer/stylist so I will do my best to capture additional angles, etc upon request.
2. All items are gently used. Should there be imperfections, they will be disclosed within the item description.
3. All sales are non-refundable and shipping is included in the purchase price.  Shipping to the contiguous US states only.
4. All transactions will be facilitated via Paypal and payment is due immediately.

7 For All Mankind "Flip Flop Jeans", size 28, minimal fray at hem, medium dark wash.

Retail price: $200, TBS price: $100 OBO  $35 - SOLD

True Religion Bobby Jeans, size 34x32, production "rips" at thigh and knee, medium dark wash. I think these are Men's. Similar pair here.

Retail price: $250, TBS: $125 OBO $35

James Jeans Dry Aged Denim, Size 30, Dark denim, See line here.

Approximate Retail Price: $200, TBS Price: $100 OBO $35------SOLD

The Red Engine Company jeans, Size 30, Dark Denim. See line here

Approximate Retail Price: $170, TBS Price: $80 OBO $35

J Crew jeans, Size 4, medium wash, slightly frayed hem which can be tailored, similar pair here

Approximate retail price: $109, TBS price: $50 OBO $35

Citizens of Humanity, Elle#064 stretch low waist bootcut jeans, Size 30, medium wash. Frayed hems that can be tailored. Similar here.

Approximate retail price: $160 TBS price: $50 OBO $35

Yves St Laurent Vintage Men's Suit (believed to be from the 80s, Made in France), Size 38 (based on measurements). There is a tear in the left arm that can be easily tailored. It appears that someone who was too large for the garment "Incredible Hulk"-ed it while trying it on, per Mr TBS :-) Color is navy/black with muted red/burgundy and white pinstripes. Suit is wool.

TBS price: $100 OBO $35

Yves St Laurent Vintage Suit #2 (believed to be from the 80s and also made in France), size 40 based on measurements. Color is gray with subtle burgundy and gray plaid. No imperfections.

TBS price: $125 OBO $35

The Broke Socialite's Primer To Surviving Black Friday

Barely past Halloween this year, most major department stores (Macy’s, Dillards, et al) and Big Box retailers (Wal-Mart, Target) have wasted no time with holiday sales commercials. You didn’t notice? You must live under a rock. Some stores have even “leaked” their Black Friday sale items. Remember how you used to wait until Thanksgiving Day? Unprecedented!

The business of Black Friday shopping is serious. Consider these tips if you’ll be heading out:

o Coffee. Stat. Believe me…if you want the best deals, you’ll need to get up early. You might even need to camp out in a line or two at twilight. Coffee is coffee. Plus…it’ll be a few hours before Starbucks opens.

o Your budget. Let your bank account be your guide. Spend within your means. There will still be sales after Black Friday; so take this into consideration. Do think about any online or post-holiday sales that you might want to take advantage of.  Remember that Cyber Monday are a mere three days away.

o Sales circulars in a folder. Organization is key. Take a little bit of time on Thanksgiving night mapping out your route and what you’ll purchase at each store.

o Navigation system.  TomTom, OnStar and MapQuest are a few solutions that are helpful when hopping from store to store.

o An alarm. The name of the game is grabbing what you’ve isolated and moving along to the next spot. Either set your watch or a cell phone.

o Cell phone charger for your car...especially if you don't have a smart phone.  You'll want the flexibility to call back to your command center (read: home) to check on the natives or to ask someone to check a store's website for you.

o Shopping bags.  It's best to bring your own sturdy, re-useable bags. Make it Green Friday in this regard.

o Comfortable shoes. Trust me. This is no time to test your 5-inch heels. You won’t be a happy camper.

o Dress in layers. If you’ll be standing outside before entering a store and it’s a little chilly, no need to turn into a Popsicle. Also, as the day goes on, you might grow warm and prefer the luxury of removing a coat or blazer.

o Water. Hydration is key.

o Snacks. Trail mix, fruit or veggies to nosh before or after lunch. Yes, it will be tempting to wolf down a Cinnabon but is it right? Especially the day after Thanksgiving.

o A Partner In Crime. Being solo takes the fun out of Black Friday, no? You'll need someone to increase your odds for those hard-to-snag items!

o Patience. Enough said.

Follow me on Twitter via @brokesocialite on Friday morning. I, with sidekick in tow, will be out on Black Friday and will chronicle my experience in Cadillac's SRX Crossover and using OnStar's navigation system!  I'll be using #TBSsaves...won't you join me if only virtually?

Will YOU participate in Black Friday shopping this year?

Photo credit: ABC News

TBS's Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale Wish List: What's On Yours?

Today is a high-holy day in the shopping realm. Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale begins today and runs through Sunday, August 2.

If you need to update your fall wardrobe, you'll want to take a pass at their offerings. Last year, I scooped up a few pair of pants and some sweaters but the shoes...oh, the glorious shoes make the experience worthwhile.

No actual Nordie's near you? Don't fret...damages can be done on-line, too!!! I think I'm going to pop over to the Phipps Plaza location for some scouting at lunch today. Here are a few of the items I'm pining for:

Cole Haan Nicole Air Boot

Distressed Leather Jacket (brown)

Calvin Klein Cowl Neck Sweater Dress (oatmeal)

Kate Spade Oversized Sunglasses

What's on YOUR wish list?

Life Is Good For TBS: A Shoe Coup (Of Course)!

I had the most remarkable weekend. It wasn't that I experienced anything different or new but the warmth of the sun (and especially after last week's snow) just put an extra pep in my step. On Sunday afternoon, I managed a few good deals which I'll share with you this week. Rest assured...these are deal that I simply couldn't leave behind.

As you have likely surmised, I am addicted. Addicted to shoes. Yes. Am I ashamed? Absolutely, positively not. What you should know is that I never, ever pay full price. Does that make my sickness any less real? Absolutely, positively not. When you see these shoes and hear about the deal, you'll understand why.

Originally $325 smackeroos, I scored these from the Nordstrom Rack: Cole Haan (with Nike Air Technology) Leopard Pony Hair Print Pumps for $119 dollars! Since I didn't have my paper bag handy and was shopping alone, I reached out to my Twitter network. The dearest Nicole of The Sale Rack and Melanie of Lucky Paperie were my "Jills-On-The-Spot" and co-signed that it was such the great deal. Nicole even did some quick comparison shopping and immediately tweeted that she couldn't find a better price on the shoe.

When I got home, I checked here and here...Nicole was on the money!

Don't you love 'em?

Did you enjoy any steals this weekend?

Stanton Home Furnishings 20-80% Off Through March 1!

I was walking past one of my favorite home interiors spots (Stanton Home Furnishings) in Atlanta yesterday and noticed the sign above on their door. As a matter of fact, they were not open on Sunday in preparation for this blowout sale. I'm not sure to what we owe the discount (I'm guessing slow sales) but EVERYTHING in the store will be 20-80% off beginning today.

Located at 1250 Caroline Street, Suite C120 in Atlanta, it's such a fun place to peruse. I can't say that I've bought a lot out of this boutique because, frankly, they are usually very pricey. It seems that now might be my opportunity. I'll likely swing by this weekend. Perhaps as the sale goes on, the price points will go down...I'll take my chances.

For those of you not in Atlanta, on-line shopping is available.

Enjoy!

From Dear Reader, Miss Pink Slip...The Great Indoors

The Great Indoors was brought to my attention from the delightful Miss Pink Slip.

Why? Why, oh why must she torture me with the revelation of new (well, at least new to me) shopping venues?

Looks pretty good to me! Half-priced coffee makers? 10 percent off sitewide? Discounts on major appliances?

Oh, it is rare that I meet a sale that I don't agree with!

Thanks for sharing, Miss Pink Slip (sorta!)

I'm Your Pusher: More Post-Holiday Sales at Wisteria

One of my fave on-line interior spots, Wisteria, is still having a remarkable post-holiday sale. It begs me to wonder: Dear God, why am I not independently wealthy? Boo hoo hoo.

Wisteria's offerings are so fun and unique. It's one of those places where you can grab home items that you probably won't see again. Started by a husband/wife team, its style is laid back and casual with a twinge of chic! Love it!

Take a glance at their sale inventory. From the riveted lamp to the sequined bug pillows, it's a treasure trove.

Promise that you won't hate me for enabling you.

What'd be on your wish list from Wisteria?

From Dear Reader, NicBeast: Bargain Basement Finds

Dear TBS,

I am ecstatic to share with you and your readers that I found these bed dressings for $39.95. The set was originally marked $89.99 at Target. If that weren't enough, I also got an 'egg crate' for the bed for $14.95. I scored! My guest room will look beautiful for my father's visit!

Nic

Nic: How chic! As always, I appreciate your willingness to share and inspire us all. Saying that you scored is an understatement. 60% off is always music to my ears! Thanks again.

Atlantans: Get Thee To Boutique Bargains Warehouse Sale!

The following boutiques will be represented:


Addiction
Almanac
Archive Agency
Bilthouse
Boogaloos
BouCou Jewelry
Chelsea Parkes
Drew Lewis
Emly Benham
Fab'rik
Fickle Manor
Jac
K.La
Kaleidoscope
Kelly's Closet
Lisa Brown
Meringue
Mooncake
Ooh La La
Pella
Runway Atlanta
Sandpiper
Sorella
T Boutique
Tulipano
The Soshoelite


Details here!

Tell 'em TBS sent you!

For ATLANTA area Readers: 70% Off at Decorating Mart!

Just because Mr TBS has forbidden me to take advantage of this sale, doesn't mean you shouldn't, right?

Decorating Mart ( located at 1200 Barrett Parkway Ste. 24 Kennesaw, GA 30144 ) is about to change! We are NOT going out of business, just changing how we do business. By changing the way we purchase and cutting our overhead, we will be able to offer the lowest prices around! We will be altering our look and layout, as well as bringing in thousands of new items of inventory, including fabric, trim, accessories, furniture, and more! Right now everything in stock is being marked down 20 to 70 percent to make room for new merchandise!

Starting in March we will become Decorating Mart Outlet, but the savings start now!!

TOTAL STOCK LIQUIDATION SALE
Biggest Discounts ever!!!!We are clearing out our inventory! It's first come, first serve, so don't miss this opportunity! Everything Must Go!!

Items for sale UP TO 70% OFF

This sale includes:FABRIC, TRIM, WALLPAPER, ART & ACCESSORIES, LAMPS, FURNITURE, EVERYTHING!!!

If you can touch it, it's on sale for pennies on the dollar!!

From Dear Reader, NicBeast: Home Depot Expo and Yardbird Liquidation Sales

Since the Home Depot headquarters are based in Atlanta, I was saddened to hear that they would be laying off scores of employees (nearly 7k) yesterday. The company is closing all Yardbirds, Expo and Design Stores. Liquidation sales begin today at these outlets.

Please keep those affected and their families in your prayers.

Thanks so much for sharing, Nic!

If I Were A Little Miss TBS...

...I would be chanelling my inner Sasha and Malia Obama and worrying the the living daylights out of my mom to buy me pieces from J Crew's Crew Cuts for my wardrobe. I'd promise to do all of my chores, eat all of my peas and corn AND make my bed without being asked! I wouldn't even need the Jonas Brothers!

If there is a little girl (or boy) in your life, get over to J Crew and take a pass at some their Crew Cuts line that is on sale. Why weren't there clothes like this when I was a kid? Some of the price points are on the higher side but continue to watch the Sale page.

I've put together a collage of some of my favorites from the Crew Cuts Sale.

We all have our opinions on the First Lady's fashion choices but what'd you think of First Daughters' ensembles?

I Feel So GILT-y!

If you've not heard of Gilt...the on-line sample sale for women, men, children and home...now consider yourself informed.

Here's the notion:

Invitation Only Shopping
Gilt Groupe provides access, by invitation only, to Men’s, Women’s and Children’s coveted fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70% off retail. Each sale lasts 36 hours and features hand selected styles from a single designer.
First Come, First Served
All sales take place only on www.gilt.com and our full collection of merchandise is always available at the start of the sale, so be sure to log on early.
Advance Preview
To introduce each brand, our designer bios and reels give you a preview of upcoming sales, must-have pieces and featured designers.

They even have a blog!

Today's sales included Cole Haan, Mrs John L Strong, and Donna Karen....yummy!

Here's your own personal invite from TBS!

Fall Into The GAP! Great Sales

Looking for deals on sweaters, jeans, tees and such? Head over to GAP for wonderful sales! I picked up two pairs of cords last afternoon @ $11 each. The original price was $54.50 per pair. I also got a great lambswool sweater for $30; which was 50% off. Don't miss out!

Happy Sunday!

Any exciting sales or savings from this weekend to share?

From Dear Reader, Nicole: Sale Items From Victoria's Secret

Dear TBS,

I wanted to share a great find. I think Victoria's Secret is on the tail end of a semi-annual sale and I hit it just right. Everybody knows how expensive their lingerie can be, however here is an opportunity to give your hubby something a little special. I got the black negligee for $14.99 and the pink for $20. They were both already marked down then you took an additional 50% off. I love it!

Nicole

Note from TBS: Thanks so much for sharing, Nicole. You're a girl after my own heart. I did a little more digging and noticed that today is the last one for this sale. The online coupon code is PICK50 for an additional 50 percent off already-reduced prices! Good steals!