serious hobbyists

Do you have a hobby? One (or more) that you pursue with some degree of passion? For some it is in creating (baking, cooking, building miniature models, etc.), while others might be devoted to collecting (Hello Kitty, Birkin bags, Gundam items, etc.).

In helping to fulfil life's lil' indulgence, I'm often offered a peek into the life of serious hobbyists.  The enthusiasm is refreshing and sometimes their quest can be relentless.

And there are many reasons why people build miniatures, perfect a recipe or hunt down a limited edition piece. An avenue for creative release or a momentary escape perhaps? Whatever your reason(s), do you have a hobby?

~ ~ ~

There are new deals this week, make sure to check them out. 

the ruby slippers

I have a thing for shoes but I like to think I am not in the league of the shoeholics.  It started with a pair that was gifted to me.  A pair of red patent Ferragamo "Carla" pumps with the signature bow.  The Husband names it "Dorothy's Shoes", after the ruby slippers worn by Dorothy Gale in the fantasy tale "Wizard of Oz". 

When I go to the stores, I usually spend a lot of time at the shoe department.  Even when I go thrifting, I'll zoom in on the shoes first before anything else (like bags).  My favourite places to "window shop" for shoes are Nordstrom Rack, NM LastCall and Saks OFF 5th.  These stores have aisles and aisles of shoes arranged according to size and often the premium designers and items on clearance are separated out. The shoes are usually from the main stores which didn't sell and have to make space for the new season.  I've found both classic and off seasons shoes at incredible and irresistible prices.

Besides going to the stores, online sites such as 6pm.com and DSW are great places for finding that super duper deal.  I owned my very first pair of Asics Kayano after spotting it at the clearance section at DSW.  These days I'll watch these sites for the running shoes to go on clearance.

I also enjoy curating my "shoe collection" online since I cannot own them all given my current lifestyle.  But sometimes I cannot resists and will end up bringing a pair (or two) home.  And because I cannot keep every pair, I will have to "let them go" on eBay or Tradesy.  A kindred spirit or someone who needs a great pair of shoes for work or special occasion may appreciate it.

I am still looking for that elusive pair of classic black pumps with red soles.  I once "enabled" a stranger with a $50 off coupon, at the store, as she was contemplating if she should bring home a pair of Louboutin she found in her size.  That gives me hope.

Meet the collection: (Top L to R) *Prada classic suede pumps, Jimmy Choo open toe pumps, Jimmy Choo high heels, Ferragamo "Carla" (my Dorothy shoes), *Gucci suede wedge pumps. (Bottom L to R) *Ferragamo fabric "Carla", *Ferragamo classic flats, Ferragamo "My Joy" ballet flats, Repetto "Cendrillon", Prada suede kitten heels, *Tod's driving shoes.

*Check out my "finds" to see if the shoes are still available.  

If you are looking for something special, drop me an email.

bargain hunting strategies

The September Issue
856 pages of fashion goodies

We are at the last vestiges of summer and the sale season is also coming to an end. We see designers and retailers rolling out Fall/Winter collections. Fashion magazine publishers have also filled the news stands with their own version of the bumper "September Issue". You may not know but this could be the best time to find bargains.

It's probably best to have some bargain hunting strategies or else you'll end up all over the place and missed out on some really good deals. Just like a few weeks ago I was at the mall with the intent of getting children's clothes for customers. But the "back to school" sale left many of these shops in disarray.  Every rack was picked through and items strewn all over the floor and on display shelves.  It was an overwhelming sight so I left empty-handed.

With Labor Day over and everyone recovering from sale fatigue, it was time for me to hit the mall again.  This time, many of the stores were running "final cut", some up to 80% off as they needed to clear inventory.  I was able to snap up items that were marked for clearance with an additional 20% off taken at the cash register.  It's like they are asking you to take it out of the store quickly so that they can stock the racks with new merchandise that were already piling up in the store.

For example, a toddler PJ set was marked down and tagged $3.99 (clearance price), take another 20% off and add taxes and the set will set you back about $3.50.  In the words of the sales associate, "You can't go wrong with that price".  

This time around there was hardly anyone at the stores (on a Friday no less) and I took my time to go through the racks which while over stuffed with merchandise didn't look like they were picked through. As the fashion industry cycle through another season even high-end designers items were on sale, Christian Dior summer dresses marked down to $600 (from $4,000) and you get to take another 70% off at the register (so that'll make it about $200?) or Dolce & Gabbana dresses (marked down from $5,000) were going for another 60% off.

And shoes, how can we forgot those lovely footwear.  As we are heading into boots season (dreadful!), summer shoes and sandals are going for a song.t's important to buy off season, so now it's probably not such a good time to buy that pair of boots you've been coveting or a new cashmere sweater as you change out your wardrobe and get ready for Fall.

summer closeouts

“Back-to-School” and “Summer Clearance” sales have transition into Labor Day sales.  If you know the “best time to buy”, a little bit of planning you can save some money when it comes to shopping. 

If you live where the weather is tropical, it’s a good time to buy clothes and shoes as the fashion industry rid their Summer collection to make way for Fall.

I’ve added to this blog a page where I’ll post the sales information.  If there’s something you are looking for and it’s not there, just drop me an email.  Happy Labor Day shopping!

protecting those soles

It's late spring and time to bring out those comfy flats! I rarely do product reviews but I have been using this nifty invention for over a year now and it really is the best thing since sliced bread.  As described on the website, it is "A Shoe Lovers Best Friend".

The product is named "Protect Your Pumps" which is essentially a clear adhesive you stick onto the soles of your shoes.  It acts as a buffer between the bottom of the shoe and the ground, protecting it from dirt, grime, scratches and scrapes.  Unlike other types of sole protection, you can easily remove the clear piece of plastic and the soles will still be in pristine condition.

They come in two styles - heels and flats.  Here's a photo of how it looks on the soles of my Repetto flats (which I got for a steal!).

If you spent a fortune on the shoes, you want them to wear them for a long time no?  Find out more at the website.

one year

About a year ago, I decided to offer this personal shopping concierge service to even more people besides friends.  One of the rewards is becoming acquainted with many like-minded customers who share my shopping philosophy.

On a home visit to Singapore, I was astounded by the state of retail and how things are generally overpriced.  There are limited options for bargain hunting and very often the discounts offered barely make a dent on the prices.  It is hardly surprising that many have turned to online shopping or have chosen to make that big ticket purchase while on vacation (it gives the item a story too, how neat!).

That one cursory trip to a couple of malls has reaffirm my conviction to never pay retail again.  Time to disrupt retail.

where to shop?

Finally, a breather from all the Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday sales before the avalanche of deliveries.  There'll be lots of unpacking, re-packing and making post office runs to get all those purchases shipped out in time for Christmas.

I realized during the last few weeks that many customers don't know where to shop beyond the familiar online retailers or portals.  Of course it depends on what you want to buy.  I usually ship clothes, shoes, bags, partyware, toys [for both kids and adults ;-)], bakeware, accessories, gadgets (not limited to smartphones/tablets, I've shipped two huge watchwinders!) and vintage items/collectibles.

You have many options to choose from. While unfamiliar sites may be "risky" but a little bit of online research can help you decide if the site/seller is reliable. I go bargain hunting at retailer's affiliates such as MyHabit, 6pm.  For gadgets or unusual stuff, I like ThinkGeek and Fab.  The fashionistas will be familiar with Net-A-Porter and Zappos.  If you do a bit of research, you will find many of these sites are now owned by big names that wants a piece of the "outlet" market but not wanting to extend their brands.

The early adopters will go hunt for future products (future because it is usually still in concept stage) at Kickstarter or Indiegogo. Those who love handicrafts or vintage items will find Etsy a viable alternative to eBay.

If you don't know where to begin, just ask. ;-)

meet my choos, er shoes!

The other day after an early morning appointment, I decided I needed some retail therapy.  So off I go to NM LastCall since it's been awhile. Weekdays are the best to be at the store, no crowd and I have the aisles all to myself as I go through the rows and rows of shoes.

Ten minutes in, I was thinking how I must have come at a wrong time as the pickings were slim. It turned out to be quite fruitful and I am so happy with my haul (who wouldn't be at 70% discount?) .  The best part is the Husband approves! ;-)

buying vintage

This post stems from the previous on the topic of "thrifting" as I scour numerous online sites looking at "pre-owned" items.  I have a new found to appreciation for "vintage" stuff that are being offered for sale.

I showed the photo of a pair of vintage Ferragamo pumps that I acquired from a thrift store awhile back in the previous post.  I remember that when I received it, I was rather fascinated with the construction of the shoes.  I did a little bit of research to figure out the age of this model.  I am guessing it was circa 1980s when Ferragamo made that particular model yet the design seems timeless.  It was never worn but it kept so well.  I have heard about soles of shoes separating from the upper part even though they were never used and were kept in storage for awhile.  I guess there is some degree of truth when people say they don't make things like they used to.

I've always love the idea of bespoke fashion (not to be confused with haute couture!) as it really brings out the talent of the craftsmen.  My "fetish" deepened when I read "Acquired Tastes" by Peter Mayle.  While he wrote about bespoke shoes and shirts for men, I decided women can also enjoy the same pleasures.  Those were the days, things were made to last and you occasionally bring them back for "maintenance".  Which is why many of these items still exists today and are sold on Etsy or at vintage shops all over the world.

thrifting

It's been awhile since my last post because June has been a very busy month since it's Summer Sale!  The shopping frenzy has tapered off for now as everyone is sitting on their hands waiting for the Fourth of July Sale.  Which is also the time department stores run "second cuts" or "further reduced" sales.

A pair of vintage pumps

Apart from busy fulfilling your orders, I have also taken up a new "shopping hobby" recently.  I've been somewhat inspired by some of the stuff I read online and started to explore "thrifting".  There are many online communities by avid thrifters sharing their haul everytime they go thrifting.  Some of the gems they uncover are quite remarkable.

I have made a few "field trips" to Goodwill stores and Salvation Army Thrift store.  I must say buying pre-owned items may not be everyone's cup of tea.  It also takes a lot of patience to go through racks or piles of stuff (clothes, bags, shoes, furniture, etc.) and they usually don't smell the nicest but if you think about it, items get recycled so that is less harsh to the environment.  Items usually sell for a few dollars and if you donate items, you get a tax refund receipt.  There are also those who will go to garage/yard/estate sales to pick up "treasures" which the owners have regarded as "trash".

White patent loafers

Thankfully for me, there are websites that enable thrifting in the comfort of my couch.  I usually look for items that are never worn even though they are "pre-owned".  We all have that purchase that we stashed at the back of our closet, never see the light of day since we brought it home from the store.  So far I've scored quite a few neat items and "flipped" them on eBay because I believe one person's mistake can be another person's treasure. ;-)

buying gadgets

I have been getting quite a lot of queries about buying electronic gadgets and shipping 'em.  I thought I'll write a post about it to address some of the FAQs.

Besides amazon.com, there are the big box stores like Best Buy, Fry's and telco shops where locals go check out the latest gadgets or smartphones. Prices are the same or better online than in-store.  Like many countries, cheap handsets are tied to contracts/plans and some are further customized to be only functional with a specific carrier.  In the US, some lawmakers are trying to make it illegal to UNlock your smartphone.  Do an Internet search on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act for more details.

Fans of Apple products and accessories will know that there are hardly any price difference globally for arbitrage opportunities given their pricing strategies.  For those who love to shop on amazon, AmazonGlobal has made international shipping easy.

Having said that, I have shipped a couple of Google phones, and this and that. So for all other electronic gadgets, there's life's lil' indulgence. ;-)

summer sale

Summer sale is in full swing, in fact if you are just starting to browse and mull you are probably a little behind.

How so? Well, lots of stores run what they termed "pre-sale" and that started last week.  I was in New York City when I sauntered into Saks and Bergdorf Goodman and saw that these places were packed.  Every seat in the shoes salon were taken, boxes scattered everywhere, ladies frantically giving instructions to sales associates on sizes and colors.  In short, it was a madhouse.

These places of course don't put up big posters screaming 40% off throughout the stores. Yes, I know...very subtle.  So I asked an associate about the commotion and he told me that pre-sale has started so one can put the items on tab and collect them when the Sale starts the following week.  I made a passing remark that I won't be able to collect it and the guy said they ship!  Back to the point I made awhile back about them being very "enabling".

For those asking where to look, here are links to the dept stores running designers sale:
1) Nordstrom
2) Neiman Marcus
3) Saks 5th Avenue
4) Bergdorf Goodman

Hurry now with the mulling. ;-)

brace yourself

I received quite a few emails this week asking when the sale season starts in the US.  I am guessing because the Great Singapore Sale has started in Asia and folks are gearing up for the big spend!

Some of you are rather specific when it comes to which sale you are waiting for, so that helps with the intel gathering. ;-)  From all the lurking I've been doing at various forums, end-May is about when the big dept stores like Saks, Bloomingdales, Barneys and Nordstrom start to run pre-sale.  The different brands also run their own summer sale both in store and online.

So brace yourself folks!

the rack

My plan to go shopping last week was marred by a mechanical problem with the car.  Undeterred, I made my way to Nordstrom Rack early this week.

Audrey Flats - If only I was a size 10

I always feel like a kid in a candy store at the Rack.  While the store has a neat layout, the clearance sections are usually in a state of dishevelment.  But the joy is in going through the rows of racks and finding that needle in the haystack.

The designer shoes section had a good selection this round and it was fun checking out the quirky Lanvins and trying on the Ferragamos and LK Bennett.  There were half off from the retail prices so it took a lot of restraint on my part to walk away from those deals.  I was on a mission to hunt down FitFlops, so it was best to stay focused.

The handbags section at this store was a little of a letdown, so I ventured to check out the apparel and men's just before I head off.

My quest to find the cheapest Fitflops was completed and I left the store after whiling away a few hours.  Mission accomplished.

Fitflops from $39

I spied men's jeans from $99

off-price stores

Besides shopping at the outlet malls, there are other good alternatives such as off-price stores like Nordstrom Rack, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, or department stores such as Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Loehmann's.

Fitted & Flat Sheets + 2 Pillow Cases at $40

These stores carry a wide spectrum of goods and brands. In addition to clothes, handbags, shoes, and fashion accessories, you can also find home goods at Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

paying full price?

Many have come to associate the outlet malls with great deals especially for certain coveted brands.  And retailers are also known to start separate product lines to cater to those who shop at outlet stores.

I found this pair of jeans at clearance going for $40

Just the other day, I needed to shop for jeans which is probably one of my least favorite activity.  The vocabulary of denim jeans are mind boggling - fit (skinny, boot, straight, flare), wash, etc.  Personally, jeans are workhorses (durable and able to withstand wear and tear) so they shouldn't cost an arm and a leg.  So I thought the best place to get them, with my budget of under $50, would be at the outlet mall since I was there to run some errands.

While browsing, I discovered certain brands of denim are classified as "premium" and many of the brands were unfamiliar save for a few.  And it was because long ago, a friend attempted to educate me after he paid quite a tidy sum for a pair of "premium" jeans.

Being poorly versed in this area, I did some "research" online and learned that some of these jeans can set you back a few hundred dollars (seriously!?). And some of these brands are highly susceptible to fakes.  There are sites that are devoted to discuss the brands and offer tips on how to spot a fake!

The way I decide is as long as there is no bunching and sagging at the wrong places, cutting into the skin, and fits comfortably, it'll do. I eventually found something within my budget and while I did not pay full price, I fully expect it to be a workhorse no less.

coupons and codes

I thought I'll continue the theme of "bargain hunting" from the last post and talk about coupons and promo codes. I mentioned how the stores here are really good at "enabling" you to shop.  If it is the first time you shop at a store, they'll cajole you to join their mailing list and send you coupons or codes for online shopping to get you to go back.

If you ever watched "Extreme Couponing", you'll see how some of these ladies spend hours clipping coupons for groceries and they'll pay almost nothing when they leave the supermarket with carts of stuff!  That is the extreme but I learn a thing or two watching the programme, like what it means to "stack" your coupons, or get a "rain check" for out of stock items.  I also always Google to find a promo code before I "check out" when I shop online.  Sometimes I'll find a code that gets me free shipping.

Just the other day at a store selling kids' clothes, I mentioned to the cashier that I didn't bring along the coupons they sent me and she immediately suggested that I pay for the item at full price and then do a price adjustment at any of their outlets later with the coupons (get the discount after the purchase).  Music to my ears...

bargain hunting

I started to follow a forum recently and was inspired by a thread on bargain hunting.  So recently, I made a couple of trips to the malls just to *ahem" "verify the stuff they said there".  And of course I end up spending money.  I did bagged some great bargains, like these shoes (pictured) at 85% off the original price.

Miu Miu heels (L) and Bruno Magli Satin Heels (R)

The stores are really good at "enabling" you to shop. They have sales associates positioned at the door to give out discount coupons (take another 30% off!) or tell you that they are having additional discount on certain section of the racks, etc.  Sometimes, one can be pleasantly surprised when the take the item to the cashier because they take more off the price at the register.

indulge me

It's almost 3 months since the launch of this service and I thought maybe we can spruce things up a lil'.  I'm thinking I'll skip the posting of deals and sales since those who are keen are already on the mailing list. Instead, I ask that you indulge me by reading my random musings on the subject of shopping. ;-)

Buying things and shopping in the US is a very different experience compared to where I am from.  Besides the good customer service (save for a few merchants), the stores here (brick & mortar or online) have very liberal return policies. At the boutiques, the cashier will usually ask if the item is a gift and if you like to have a gift receipt (to facilitate the return/exchange by the recipient). Very often, when I stand in line to pay for my purchases someone in front of me will be doing a return or an exchange.  Otherwise, they could be getting a price adjustment because they have a coupon or there was a discount since they bought the item. 

If you shop online, shipping is usually free with a minimum purchase.  If you are not happy with the item (not in the best condition or it arrived damaged) or you simply changed your mind, just print the return label, stick it on the box and ship it back for a refund.  I'll usually ask or read about store policies before I make my purchases, just in case.

deals in march

I was browsing and came across this article on the shopping deals in March.  I know that retailers usually clear winter items in Spring, so now is a good time to shop for  replacements. What's interesting is that March is considered a "non-gift giving month" so retailers drop prices and consumer electronics are a steal after the release of newer versions.