ShopTalk » Shopping

Go Fishing For Last-Minute Gifts

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:23:19 +0000

A helpful friend of ShopTalk just sent word about a productive shopping trip she wanted to share. If you’re still searching for a nice item for one of the menfolk on your list, looks like TailWaters Fly Fishing Co. could be the answer. Here’s what she had to say:

[It's an] awesome place to pick up a last minute gift for any guy on your list if you’re trying to avoid malls, shopping centers, etc. I’d never been there before, and I don’t know much about fishing, but the guys will just steer you in the right direction. I was in and out in 15 minutes with (what I hope is) a successful gift for the BF!

So there you go. TailWaters is located at 2416 McKinney Ave. (214-219-2500). Hope you reel in a good deal. Sorry, couldn’t help myself.

Tie One On, Texas-Style

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:43:15 +0000

When I say that the new Carrollton-based company Sine Die has Texas ties, I mean it literally has Texas ties. Sine Die’s Lone Star State-loving neckwear features everything from oil wells to Austin bats. Several of the patterns include our beloved state shape, and one even honors that favorite Texas pastry: the kolache. Bonus: if you order by noon on December 23, Sine Die guarantees delivery before Christmas.

Item of the Day

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 20:00:01 +0000

Belts are a great way to update your look and they don’t seem to be going out of style anytime soon. While shopping around the other day, I came across this stylish one from The Gap’s limited edition European collection. For only $40, this would make a great gift for your girlfriend or simply treat yourself!

A Holly Jolly Gypsy Wagon Christmas

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:41:05 +0000

This Thursday, The Gypsy Wagon is staying open late to give holiday shoppers an extra chance to tackle their gift lists. Shop owner Carley says that in addition to the special 8 pm closing time, there will also be wine. I’m in! Other deals you can expect to find include 40 percent off handmade Christmas stockings, 50 percent off leather handbags, and 25 percent off rain boots. (Photo credit: Elizabeth Lavin)

Stanley Korshak Fine Jewelry Sale

Jennifer Chininis — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 23:45:17 +0000

If you’re like me, you like to have a Christmas list, just so people get you exactly what you want. So I suggest sending your man a link to this blog–just as a little hint to say, hey, honey, I’d like some bling and you can buy me some at Stanley Korshak this week only for 25% off. We love the designs of Rachelle Dauphinee, which you can see in our 10 Most Beautiful Women in Dallas feature, and they’re also a favorite of designer Abi Ferrin. This will show that not only do you have good taste, but you’re also interested in saving him some cash. You know, because you’re thoughtful like that.

Confessions of a Movie Trailer-aholic

Rhonda Reinhart — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:48:21 +0000

If you haven’t already seen it, here’s a preview of the most fashion-fetishy flick since Sex and the City. Based on the best-selling novels, Confessions of a Shopaholic looks like one of those movies girls of all ages will be clamoring to see. Pretty leading lady, pretty clothes, pretty-boy love interest…it’s all there. Confessions hits theaters in February 2009. See you at NorthPark!

Chip the Chipmunk Charm Helps Hungry Children

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:48:28 +0000

Here’s the charity-charged scoop: In support of the North Texas Food Bank, Ylang 23 is offering an exclusive Chip the Chipmunk charm with sales benefiting the Food 4 Kids school backpack program. The charm, designed by Catherine Michiels, is $110, and $50 of that price goes to Food 4 Kids. Buy online or at the Ylang 23 store at Galleria Dallas.

Genius! A Contemporary Garter Flask!

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 19:43:15 +0000

When the Juliette Garter Flask came in the mail to Kristin, it was love at first site for me. Our gorgeous make came in plum silk with a floral design. Tucked delicately inside the pocket was a sleek little silver flask. I knew I had to have it. Fortunately, Kristin is generous, and she handed it over. I cradled the little love, thinking of all of the wonderful things I could do with it. Creator Nanette suggests wearing it under your wedding gown to soothe wedding day jitters—I’ll need one for each leg—or wearing it as a bridesmaid at a bachelorette outing. (I wore it around the office for a little while.) But the uses don’t stop there! You can forget wearing a purse. Stuff your camera, cell, and lip gloss in there, too. I wish I had known about these things when I was in college. I would have filled up the flask for the football games. Be creative. The possibilities are endless! The garters can even be customized by color, initials, and the addition of crystals and pearls. To get your own, go to www.garterflask.com. To see a photo of the real thing, jump.

New Oscar Fierro Boutique and Trunk Show

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 18:44:07 +0000

Designer Oscar Fierro, who will open his first boutique next month in Mockingbird Station, is holding a holiday trunk show to give Dallas fashion lovers a sneak peek at his store as well as his original pieces. The trunk show started this morning and will continue through 5 pm, but if you can’t make it today, don’t worry. The event will be going on tomorrow as well. Hours are 10am-5pm, and the shop is located between Cafe Express and Ann Taylor Loft. In addition to Fierro’s designs, which include his “To-Go” label featuring items priced at 30 bucks or below, expect to see new jewelry pieces from Austin designer Kendra Scott.

Beretta Gallery Trunk Show This Weekend

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 23:18:23 +0000

From Friday through Sunday, get 20 percent off exotic leather handbags and accessories at the Beretta Gallery holiday trunk show. Firearms aren’t included in the deal, but you can get this purple crocodile purse, for example, as well as other high-end ostrich and lizard goods such as belts, briefcases, and more. If you need a few more animal skins in your life, be sure and swing by Highland Park Village this weekend, but don’t tell Natalie Portman. It might not sit well right about now.

Celebrate the Season With Abi Ferrin

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 22:42:38 +0000

On Friday from 10 am-8 pm, stop by the Abi Ferrin studio at 1409 S. Lamar St. for some holiday festivities and a meet-and-greet with the team. Everything will be 40 percent off, and drinks and appetizers will be served at 4 pm. If you want to learn more about the Dallas designer, check out the current issue of D Beauty, in which Ferrin tells us about 10 of her favorite things. Not surprisingly, this in-the-know fashionista has lots of cool tips.

Open House at Again & Again Modern This Saturday

Jennifer Chininis — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:43:45 +0000

You may have read about Leslie Pritchard in the current issue of D Home. She’s one of our favorite girls in this town, because as the owner of Again & Again on Bonita Avenue, she has outfitted many of our homes with fabulously restored vintage furniture, like this chair. Well, Pritchard has opened a new store called Again & Again Modern, just up the street, and she’s having an open house this Saturday, December 13. In the new store you’ll find already refurbished pieces–in case you’re one of those folks who doesn’t have “vision,” and you can’t see the potential in the things at Again & Again–and custom-built pieces. See you Saturday!

Everything Is Half Off at Haven

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 20:39:09 +0000

That’s what a discount-loving friend of ShopTalk says, anyway. She just got back from the store and was pleased as punch to find candles, ornaments, coffee table books, and more all priced at 50 percent off. And Stephanie’s been raving about some great Champagne flutes she picked up the other day (before the sale started, sadly). Apparently the owners of the Best of Big D winner want to make room for new merchandise. So, shoppers, get thee to Haven—before somebody else gets the good stuff!

Nordstrom’s New “Ultimate” Gift Collection Really is Ultimate

Kristin Hull — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 21:05:38 +0000

Nordstrom has announced their new Ultimate Gift Collection which definitely lives up to its name. Granted, the gifts are pretty pricey but they’re so amazing they’re worth it. The collection includes a sofa custom-designed by Tory Burch ($15k), an armoire designed and stocked by Juicy Couture ($15k), a family portrait session with celebrity photographer, Sam Jones ($50k), and a 12′x20′ personalized painting by artist Ruben Toledo ($200k). These offers are exclusive to Nordstrom so you won’t find them anywhere else. And since there is only one Tory Burch sofa and one Ruben Toledo painting you better hit “add to cart” fast. Two Juicy Couture armoires and two portrait sessions will be available but I’m sure those will go quickly as well. (I mean, Jay-Z has to buy Beyonce something she doesn’t already have.) How cool would it be to have the same photographer that works with George Clooney and Tom Cruise photograph your family? Or to sit and read a book on a luxurious, one-of-a-kind couch that Tory Burch created? Pretty damn cool.

A Holiday Gift Guide For All the Usual Suspects

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:27:20 +0000

Still need help coming up with ideas for your holiday shopping? Then check out Raya’s gift roundup. She’s found something for just about everyone on your list.

Sample Sale at RSVP Soiree

Rhonda Reinhart — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:30:13 +0000

If you’re planning a holiday party at your place this year and you’re in need of dinnerware, linens, and such, you might want to check out the RSVP Soiree sample sale taking place right now. To make room for its new inventory, the event rental company is selling off some of its older goods, and it looks like there’s lots of good stuff to choose from. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and everything must go. Check out the RSVP Soiree blog for more info.

Give a Gift, Help the World

Jennifer Chininis — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:27:59 +0000

Every once in a while, amid all the spam and junk and otherwise useless communication we receive in this office, we get something good. While I was cleaning off my desk today, I discovered a press release I had set aside for when I actually had time to make a positive contribution to ShopTalk. Anyhoo, if you’re like me, you like to shop for Christmas gifts online, and a site like Global Girlfriend does double duty: you find great stuff for those you love, and you get to help someone less fortunate than yourself. Among the many fair trade goods on the site are organic cotton clothing made by women in India and Nepal, recycled rice totes from Cambodia, and recycled glass jewelry from Afghanistan. Or, if you prefer, you can purchase a Gift That Gives More, and 100% will go directly to the charity of your choice. So, should you purchase this Flower Power Tote, you will be helping the women of the Godavari Delta Women Lace Cooperative of India, who receive not just good pay but also skills and literacy training. As a bonus, Global Girlfriend is offering free shipping on purchases over $25 until January 31, 2009. You are officially out of excuses. Get clicking!

Gift Guide, Web Version

Katie McNew — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:51:28 +0000

So, I was going to put together a gift guide before Thanksgiving, but I flat ran out of time. In fact, I’ve been so busy lately, all of my personal holiday shopping has been online. I figure some of you folks out there have run into the same conundrum, so here are a few sites that I’ve come across that offer fun, unique gift ideas.

For the yogi: yogamatic.com. Upload your best zen-inspiring photo, position it on your mat, then this Santa Monica, CA-based company will print your mat using a high-resolution, state-of-the-art printing process. (starts at $85)

For the ice cream queen (or king): ecreamery.com. Finally, here’s your shot at becoming an ice cream flavor creator. Choose your base, flavor, and two mix-ins (like peach pieces or chocolate-covered pretzels), then pick your packaging and focus on the all-important name. (starts at $49.99)

To assist the ice cream queen (or king): prepara.com. Go here for the ice cream pint sleeve. Yes! A koozie for your cream! Love. It. ($7.95)

… well, that’s really all I’ve got so far. What? I told you I’ve been busy. All other awesome gift ideas welcome. Post a comment or e-mail me.

Boutique Clearance Sale at Bend Yoga Studio

Rhonda Reinhart — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:03:30 +0000

All you yoga lovers out there need to stop by Bend Studio this Saturday for the winter clearance sale. From noon to 4 pm, everything is 25 to 50 percent off. Get yoga mats, blankets, blocks, belts, books, and more. And expect lines such as American Apparel, Kai, and Ashkari.

Help Plant Trees With Half Price Books

Jennifer Chininis — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 21:38:29 +0000

Here’s a loss I hadn’t thought about before: because of Hurricane Ike, more than 238,000 acres of trees were lost or damaged in 29 Texas counties, which prompted Half Price Books and Keep Texas Beautiful to form the Replant Texas initiative. Their mission is to buy and plant trees to replace those lost in the storm. How can you help? If you buy one of these cute, environmentally friendly, reusable tote bags for 98 cents, HPB will donate 10 cents from each sale to the cause. In fact, HPB has already promised a minimum of $15,000 to kick off the program, and proceeds will be deliverd on Earth Day 2009. I ask you: when was the last time you bought something good for less than a buck?

More Friday Fun

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:19:26 +0000

This weekend (starting tomorrow) is a good time to get out and shop if you can. Stock up on great gifts and treat yourself to something chic but cheap while you’re at it. Here are a few we have on our radar. Feel free to let us know about others Talkers shouldn’t miss out on!

What: Designer Sample Sale
What you’ll find: Clearance items from local designers Abi Ferrin, Courtney Warren, Sarah Briggs, Eddie Jo Jewelry, and Nest Jewelry. Tons of items only $10-$25!
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 10-8 and Saturday December 6th 10-6 at West Village, 3839 McKinney suite 160 (the old Lucy space at the NW corner of McKinney and Blackburn).

What: The Warehouse Sale
What you’ll find: 80% off premium denim (Frankie B, William Rast, AG Jeans, Rock & Republic, Diesel, and more), tops, dresses, and pants.
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 2-8 and Saturday December 6th, 10-4 at The Dallas Market Center, Freeway Hall, 2200 N Stemmons Fwy.

What: MaryGold jewelry Trunk Show
What you’ll find: 14k gold-filled bracelets, necklaces and earrings that are dripping with colorful precious and semi-precious stones. Full line priced 30-40% below retail for this event.
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 11-6 at Betty Cupcake in Snider Plaza.

Sartel Revealed & LFT Final Sale Continues

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:03:10 +0000

Designer and boutique owner, Matthew Earnest will debut his 1930’s-inspired spring 2009 women’s line, Sartel at a trunk show tomorrow from 4PM- 7PM at V.O.D. Get there early and then hop over to LFT for some great deals, as the store closing (we’re still really bitter about this) sale continues, with 40%-80% off everything (but happy about this) in the store.

HD’s Annual Canned Food Drive

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:29:06 +0000

The homegrown retailer, established in 1981 (I bought my first pair of Diesel jeans there when I was in high school) by husband and wife team, Harry and Vicki DeMarco is holding their 21st annual Canned Food Drive now through December 31. Receive 1% off your purchase for each can you donate (up to 25%). Cans are distributed between West Dallas Multi-Purpose Center and AIDS Resource Pantry. If you don’t have time or don’t want to lug the cans over there yourself, you can simply donate $25, and they will buy the cans on your behalf. As an added bonus this year, you will receive an additional 25% off your first purchase in 2009 (valid from January 2 - 10). We love when we can give back and receive at the same time!

Cyber Monday: Fact or Fiction?

Rhonda Reinhart — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:04:04 +0000

Maybe I’m out of touch, but I just heard the phrase Cyber Monday for the first time last week. Apparently today kicks off the online holiday shopping season. I had no idea. Am I the only person not shopping online today? I also refuse to shop on Black Friday, so maybe I just have a mental block about theme shopping. If I had to choose, however, I’d definitely go with Cyber Monday. It sounds nicer, and it sure is safer.

Meet Jewelry Designer Emily Armenta

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 21:09:44 +0000

On Thursday, December 4, jewelry designer Emily Armenta will make an appearance at Neiman Marcus NorthPark from 10 am-4:30 pm. Expect to see a large collection of the Houston designer’s fall collection as well as some limited-edition pieces. Armenta’s jewelry is all handcrafted, and prices range from $500 to $50,000. Go here to get a glimpse of her old-world style.

Deep Discounts at Merge This Weekend

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 23:24:50 +0000

The Merge boutique in Preston Royal Shopping Center is slashing prices this weekend, and it looks like there’s some good stuff up for grabs. The end-of-season sale, which is already in progress, includes up to 50 percent off on select items. But come Friday and Saturday, shoppers will receive an additional 25 percent discount on already-reduced merchandise. Discounted lines include Loeffler Randall, Mike & Chris, Rock & Republic, Seven, and many more.

Happy Holidays From The Gap

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:28:02 +0000

This new Gap ad featuring inaugural ShopTalk Crush of the Week Jon Hamm makes me want to buy a sweater and scarf. Good job, Gap!

Cardigan Party at Anthropologie

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:28:14 +0000

On Sunday, December 7, the Anthropologie store at Highland Park Village will host a craft workshop titled “Rework Cardigan Sweaters.” Led by Anthropologie designers and buyers, the workshop is supposed to show customers “how extraordinary and meaningful a hand-crafted, remade gift can be.” Considering the state of some of my old cardigans, that’s a pretty bold statement. There’s room for about 15 to 20 people, and light refreshments will be served.

Today’s Fun Find: CC Skye Screw Bracelet

Rhonda Reinhart — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 20:54:37 +0000

Spotted on the likes of teenybopper Miley Cyrus, famous for being famous Kim Kardashian, and Gossip Girl Leighton Meester, this CC Skye leather screw bracelet is apparently hot with the L.A. “it girls” right now. Which means that by the time you finish reading this sentence, it will be très passé. Either way, I’m digging this combo of tough and sweet. The metal accents on the colorful band are pretty representative of CC Skye’s style, so if you like this, you’ll probably like her other stuff, too. To get your own screw bracelet, buy online or head over to Intermix.

Online Shopping and Coupon Stalking

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 22:37:03 +0000

Friend of ShopTalk Bethany just alerted me to a good-deal-having web site called RetailMeNot.com, and now I’m spreading the news to you. This online coupon source could make the year’s holiday shopping a whole lot easier on the old pocketbook, especially since that pocketbook might be looking a little leaner these days. Here’s how it works: you go to the site, you enter a store you like, and RetailMeNot spits out a list of deals. Free shipping, printable coupons, and discounts seem to be the most popular. For example, the site just let me know that now through Wednesday, November 26, you can get 25 percent off any one item if you shop online at Victoria’s Secret. Just enter offer code GET25. Pretty nifty, I say. Thanks, Bethany!