What did you score at the post-holiday sales? - YouLookFab Forum

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What did you score at the post-holiday sales?

Laura

(website)

Veteran

The NY Times had an article yesterday that said that retailers had already discounted so much before Christmas that there were not many more markdowns, and they were "bundling" instead (meaning, buy a laptop and get a free printer, for example). And, interestingly, that markdowns of more than 50% meant (in general) that the retailer would lose money on the sale.

I am in Arizona and since the day after Christmas, the mall has been so busy that I don't dare get anywhere near it! (Before Christmas it was much quieter). My gut tells me that people waited to get their year-end bonus in hand before spending - since no one could be sure they were getting that money.

My answer is that I have not managed to get even one bargain, for fear of being trampled at the mall. Has anyone else gotten something wonderful at the sales?

Shopping

47 replies

Latest reply was from Angie

Ana

(website)

Veteran

I've been taking major advantage of the sales! I haven't been to a mall, but I've been online shopping, and today I went to Saks, which is just up the street from my apartment, to check out their new markdowns. I came home with a sweater and a dress that were on majorly killer sale. Brendan says I'm single-handedly trying to hold up the economy, lol.

Anyway, I took some photos.

Sweater--it's cropped, so I think it would look best with a high waisted pencil skirt. The little silk rosette things just kill me, I love them!

http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1377-1.jpg

This is a terrible picture of the dress I got, but I had to take it with my cell phone. I took some other photos of the details, which are what really make it. I was doing my happy dance when I tried it on, because I've been looking for a sort of elegant day dress, and hadn't found one I liked that wasn't a sheath style:

http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....0325-1.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1396-1.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1397-1.jpg

Cropped Leather bomber jacket that I've been stalking for a few months. Bluefly had good sales this past month, so I was able to pick it up with some Christmas money:

http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1380-1.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1386-1.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1384-1.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1381-1.jpg

Purse Brendan got me for Christmas! (I helped him pick it out, hee):

http://i66.photobucket.com/alb.....1392-1.jpg

I'd LOVE to see others' purchases and Christmas presents! That is so much fun for me, too.

bella

(website)

Veteran

I love all of your purchases Ana, you look adorable in that dress.

Nicole

Veteran

So so stylish, Ana. I love the purse! It's a great size.

The only article of clothing I got was a white puffer jacket for snowboarding. It's a true snow boarding jacket, so it's not terribly stylish--but I've already worn it a few times and it is extrememly warm.

tarzy

Veteran

Ana - that dress is amazing! Almost has a MAD MEN vibe (with some pumps?) You really know how to rock the dresses!

tarzy

Veteran

Laura - how is your vacation? Did you pack the right things? What do you think of the fashions out west?

Laura

(website)

Veteran

Hi Tara! We're still out here and absolutely loving the sunshine.

Let's just say I'm seeing a lot of Juicy Couture velour outfits and bling, bling and more bling. Worn with Uggs. We don't get to see much of that in Chicago!

shiny

Veteran

Unfortunately - or is it fortunately? - our car has been at the shop so I haven't been able to get anywhere close to a mall. Not to mention DH and I have both been sick the last few days.

The girls and I have some returns to make this week so we'll probably check out some sales, but overall, I'm pretty happy with what I have. Other than basics, it would have to be something completely irresistable - like Ana's leather jacket! - for me to spend the money.

Instead, I think I'm going to hold out and wait for Spring sales. The articles I've read said that in coming months we can expect retailers to put things on sale after only two weeks.

For spring, I would love:

- a pair of silver flats
- another pair of denim clamdiggers
- a waterproof trench coat

Winter-wise, I think I'm good with what I've got. Though I never say never...

Ana

(website)

Veteran

I saw a pair of dark brown Ugg slipper type boots walking around today. They had a gold double wing motif embroidered on the front of the shaft. Wow.

Thank you so much for the feedback on the items. I wasn't sure how the jacket was supposed to really fit, since I haven't ever worn a bomber style before, but now I've gotten used to seeing it, and I really like it. I plan to wear it over some of my dresses to sort of "toughen" them up.

Tarzy--wow, thank you! I love "Mad Men" style!

Edit: I must have posted at the same time as Shiny, since I didn't see her post before. Thank you so much Shiny! I hope you aqnd DH feel better soon.

Anonymous

Ana, you are so cute in that dress!
I haven't been out yet shopping but hope to tomorrow, although my list is small. I have what I need to get through the season but would like to find a warm fabulous coat (longer down puffer or wool fitted or both) and a wonderful pair of flat black leather boots that fit a narrow calf while they are on sale.
I love my two long boyfriend cardies and wouldn't mind another if Angie thinks the style will be around again next winter.
If premium dark or black denim narrow jeans go on sale, I'm interested. I still need to try on a variety of brands to find the best for my rectangluar old body.

BLB

(website)

Whoa, Ana, I love your finds, especially the dress and cardi! You look wonderful.

I'm shopping tomorrow too. Fingers crossed for good finds and few crowds. Will report back.

Alecia

Veteran

Awesome finds, Ana! I was planning to go on a bit of a birthday shopping trip but my husband's car got towed yesterday. It was $300 and something to get it out of hock. That will put a significant crimp in the shopping fun. But I did get some money at christmas and will see if I can put that to good use. On my list I had - a new perfect fitting suit (that probably will have to wait now), skinny jeans, and tops long enough to wear with pants for work.

Tanya

Veteran

Wow Ana, I love everything you got, especially that dress. And that red bag is beautiful!

I don't think I will be shopping much, though I am still waiting for those two Aqua cashmere tunics to arrive. I am going to the mall with BF today, but mainly to buy stuff for him. I would still like some new skinnies and sweaters, but I won't be looking super-actively for them.

Patience

Veteran

Ana, you made some really great scores! Everything looks great.

I have not been shopping since I've been at home with the kids, but today I'm going to make a bunch of pre Christmas sale returns. I don't know that I'll be shopping much though. I have ordered a few things online and there are a few more I'm debating about.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Ana! Your hair is even shorter. LOVE it. Love all your purchases too. The chestnut jacket and red bag are particularly KILLER. I’m glad you scored in the sales.

Laura, I absolutely agree with your reasoning. I have more to say on the subject, but it’s also a blog topic so stay tuned.

Tara, we’re watching Madmen at the moment. Brilliant.

I have been buying up a storm on sale online. Let’s see if anything works out.

Ana

(website)

Veteran

Thanks everyone! And thank you for posting what you all are getting. I'd love to see pictures on the forum sometime soon!

Angie--my hair is shorter! Thank you for noticing. When I went in for my appointment last week, Bobby, my hairstylist, had found a picture of a cut that he said he really wanted to try on me, so I just said, "Yeah, let's try it." It's much shorter in the back and on the sides (which I like), but a little longer in the front. I've kind of just given him carte blanche to do what he wants, since I trust him, and if I don't like it, it's not hard to change it back because it's so short. I think he's going to dye my hair a bit darker next time I go in, lol. He's been bugging me to do that for at least a year. And then we'll put more blonde in when summer gets closer. Anyway, I think we're both enjoying the hair appointment a lot more now.

marianne

I haven't been doing much shopping, but if I were still working I would probably try to take advantage of the sales to stock up. I did get 2 BR merino cardis a la Shiny - one black, one cream. Still not sure how to wear the cream one, so it might go back. The store had a MUCH better selection on the sale stuff than the site - those cardis are not even available online in these colors.

Ana, I love all your purchases. You look amazing in that dress.

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

I received athletic related gifts this year (per my request!) but did happen to score some deals at JCrew and Sephora during my vacation this past week. I'll post pictures shortly.
I DID take my mom shopping the day after Christmas. We got her nearly a whole wardrobe for mere pennies at Macys. My favorite purchase of hers was a wool poppy colored cropped jacket. For a mere $14.99. She purchased three button down blouses (all with feminine detailing), two cardigans, one pencil skirt, and two trench jackets. The other trench is a dark royal blue from Ralph Lauren. Originally $200 marked down to $30. She looks amazing in her new things. I'm so glad she was up for the challenge of trying new looks and trusting me to find them for her. She also recently got new Dior wine colored metallic specs...YLF is rubbing off on my family, too!

Tanya

Veteran

I love hearing about everyone's shopping! Ana, your haircut looks incredible, I really like it. I failed to mention that ht leather jacket is absolute killer. Great job with the sales for Mom Sarah! Angie, I am very curious to know what yout online storm has left you with

Ana

(website)

Veteran

Thank you Tanya. I'm curious about Angie's purchases, too.

The Macy's sale is great, Sarah. I'm glad you got to have a good shopping experience with your mom. I like the trench Brian got her for Christmas.

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

Thanks, Ana! Here are a few pics from our Holiday in Washington. Thanks to everyone who helped me with coats and boots. The puffer and the boots I already owned worked perfectly. And since my greatest gift was spending time with family, I thought I'd share just a few photos.
http://letitrainagain.blogspot.....specs.html
Photo 1: My mom with her new trench and specs. She purchased a white crisp Alfani blouse at the Macy's sale to wear under this. It had flattering ruffle/ribbon detailing. We also got her some long leather gloves so she can wear the jacket in colder weather as well.
Photo 2: My younger sister and the blouse I gifted to her. She just started a new job and I thought it would be an appropriate piece that can be taken from day to night easily, and it layers very well.
Photo 3: My typical uniform on the trip.
Photo 4: My sister's street...look at all that snow!
Photo 5: One of my sister's cats. When she rescued him, he was a skinny, sickly little thing. Look at him now!

Ana

(website)

Veteran

I love that blouse! I got it in 3 colors, because I love wearing it under cardigans and jackets. It's a fabulous layering piece.

Lena

Ana, I adore your new hair length. I loved the first one, and this is also terrific. I can't wait to see which darker color Bobby comes up with.

Do you use a round brush for styling in the front? Do you blow it out?

Laura, I didn't get anything at the sales. I briefly dropped in the mall to return something and the crowds were so boisterous, I couldn't wait to get out into fresh air.

tarzy

Veteran

Sarah - wow. Your sister looks so much like you! That's a really nice shirt. I wonder if it would work on someone with a larger bust?

Kyle

Veteran

Laura, I hope you are enjoying Arizona. Once you find a place to park, the malls are not all that bad. I was at Scottsdale Fashion Square twice doing some returns and shopping for my son, who is suddenly quite fashion conscious and is asking for mom's opinion. (I did suggest that he wear only one Ed Hardy item at a time though, and he chose to ignore this tip!)

Congrats to Ana and Sarah on your fab purchases. You are both stunning.

I was very tempted by some skirts on sale at J Crew, but seem to be between sizes, so I don't think it's wise to buy. There were many cute and tempting items, and some of the bargains were amazing, but the cost of tailoring adds up. The online sales seem to be even better still!

I did purchase some boots:
http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/46515502/c/60.html
and some booties that were like $38 and so cute on sale at DSW

Looking forward to using them to create new outfits with things I already own.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Fabulous, Sarah! You are a wonderful daughter. I love hearing how YLF rubs off on family members, especially Mums. I’m sure Mum looks wonderful. Was it cold enough for you in Seattle?

You know what we say around here Ana: “nothing ventured, nothing gained”. I’m glad you and your hairdresser are having fun with different hair dos. That’s the way to do it!

So far, I’ve scored this very “Angie” jacket. It looks better up close. The effects of the pinstripe detailing on the pockets are sublime. Try blowing up the picture:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/29.....rchresults

I’ve also scored this cheapie for $16 in a sparkly metallic grey. It’s not itchy and fits like a dream:

http://www.express.com/catalog.....goryId=186

I’m still waiting for my bluefly box.

Love those boots, Kyle.

Oh yes! I’m also buying up my favourite scented candles, olive oil, kitchen knives, gloves and house slippers.

Ana

(website)

Veteran

Angie, I think I tried on that NL blazer at Saks yesterday! What did you get from bluefly? I LOVE bluefly....it's one of my favorite online places to shop now, especially since they are having all these sales.

Kyle, I like those boots! The little tie up part is a great detail.

Tanya

Veteran

Kyle, those are such pretty boots! Angie, that NL jacket is gorgeous! I am very envious of it. Ana, I love bluefly too!

Pete and I went shopping today. We found a lot of great clothes for him: 2 great BR merino zip-up sweaters ( the only sweater shape he actually likes), a BR t-shirt, 2 BR pairs of dark bootcut jeans, one pair of Express jeans and an argyle hat. The Express jeans are amazing: super-dark wash without any whiskering and 1% stretch ( almost impossible to find in mens jeans), straight legs. He'll be wearing them whole week to test out how much they stretch and how will they look, and if they pass the test, he'll be going back for two more pairs! These are them:

http://www.express.com/catalog.....egoryId=65

I scored a BR teal merino cardi, this one:

http://www.bananarepublic.com/.....pid=606708

I have also received the surprise Xmas present from him: perfumes! He got me Michael Kors and Stella McCartney, and I am currently testing them.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Ha! What was the verdict, Ana? Did the style work? The button detail on the sleeves of that NL jacket are fabulous, but you can’t see it in the picture. Love that bracelet length sleeve too. Jackets like that are a no-brainer for my style and lifestyle. This jacket also fits under my new coat (the long grey one you saw in Boston). It was a good purchase. My bluefly box is full of knitwear and the odd skirt. That’s a little tricky because I’m allergic to wool. We’ll find out soon enough.

Tanya, you did really well for Pete! Snug two-way zip tops are the way to go for blokes. Boys look splendid in that style. He is a lucky man. Another pretty cardigan and perfumes for his sweetie. Enjoy!

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

Yes, Angie. The weather was definitely cold enough! My BIL has a jeep, but when he had to work we drove my sister's car. I pushed that dear thing out of snow drifts several times. Thankfully my sister isn't intimidated of snow, otherwise we'd never have gone anywhere!
And Tarzy, definitely try the blouse. I consider myself busty, and I quite like the fit, especially as a layering piece.

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