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.