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. ;-)