Monday, November 30, 2009

Maternity Outtakes #2

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Below is a post she wrote pre-leave.


I'm a big fan of form-fitting maternity clothes. Generally, they make you look smaller, whereas the tent-like maternity wear makes you look huge. But there is always such a thing as too tight. This picture is from June 4th, and I labeled it "for family" as I sent it to them to show the belly. But that H&M Mama denim skirt above? Too tight.

Stick to your style. I always look dumb in the country look. Cute girl on the farm? Nope. And for maternity? Still no. (also from H&M Mama) A common error: a non-maternity infiltrates the maternity section. This happened to me at JCPenney with the above skinny, dark grey pants from shesaid. I was so excited because these pants are CUTE and long on, and I had the girls running around the department searching for a bigger size because, as the above picture shows, I could not button these pants! Well, duh, we all finally figured out no bigger size was going to help me here as these got mixed up in the maternity section. But look for these pants in shesaid, they are great!

H&M Mama in H&M Herald Square, 34th & 6th Ave
JCPenney Manhattan Mall, lower levels 1 & 2, 33rd & Broadway

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Black Friday on 34th Street

As promised, here are your Black Friday store hours and deals for the 34th Street area.

Each year, we call the stores in the district so you don't have to! Check back here as we'll continue to update specials this coming week (click the Black Friday icon on the left panel). Quite a few stores go for the "surprise" factor and don't disclose their sale information till just before the day itself. To get the best deals, be sure to plan an early trip to your favorite stores for the biggest shopping day of the year, as those doorbusting prices don't last all day.

Now...on to the sales!

Aeropostale, Manhattan Mall and 15 W. 34th Street
4am-midnight: 50-70% off everything excluding markdowns and fragrances; Free teddy bear with $100 purchase (updated 11/24)

Aerosoles, 36 W. 34th Street
6:30am-9pm: 20% off before noon

Afaze, Manhattan Mall
8am-10pm: No special sales, but a great place to pick up accessories for your new outfits.


Aldo Shoes, 27 W. 34th Street
8am-10pm: 30% off all shoes, 20% off bags

American Eagle Outfitters, 40 W. 34th Street
Midnight-Midnight: BOGO ½ off graphic tees, 20% off purchase of 2 hoodies or sweaters

Ann Taylor Loft, 35 W. 34th Street
6am-11pm: 20% off before noon

B&H Photo & Video, 420 9th Avenue
9am-1pm: No special sales. This is a must-visit store for techies and professional audio/video types.

Bakers Shoes, 385 5th Avenue
5am-11pm: Undisclosed Sales

Banana Republic, 17 W. 34th Street
9am-9pm: BOGO free cashmere sweaters & scarves (updated 11/23)

Bare Escentuals, 44 W. 34th Street
7am-9:30pm: Get 4-piece set with any $50 purchase before 10am (34th Street exclusive)

Bebe, 1 W. 34th Street
6am-10pm: Scratch-off savings cards

Billabong, 112 W. 34th Street
7am-10pm: Undisclosed Sales

Borders, 2 Penn Plaza at 32nd St & 7th Ave
7am-11pm: Undisclosed Sales

Cambridge Members, 1270 Broadway
10am-8pm: No special sales, but if you ever need a custom-tailored suit, this is the place to go.

Charlotte Russe, 901 6th Avenue
4am-11pm: 25% off everything

The Compleat Strategist, 11 E. 33rd Street
10:30am-6pm: No special sales. This is your one-stop-shop for RPG (role-playing games).

Daffy’s, 1311 Broadway
7am-10pm: No special sales other than their everyday low prices.

Dr. Jays, 33 W. 34th Street
5:30am-10pm: 20% off everything

Express, 7 W. 34th Street
5am-10pm: 25% off everything before noon, 20% off everything after noon

Famous Footwear, 250 W. 34th Street
7am-11pm: BOGO pair of shoes ½ off

Foot Locker, 120 W. 34th Street and 45 W. 34th Street
4am-midnight: $10 off $50 purchase, $25 off $100 purchase, $50 off $200 purchase (updated 11/25)

Foot Locker, Manhattan Mall
5am-11pm: $10 off $50 purchase, $25 off $100 purchase, $50 off $200 purchase (updated 11/25)

Footaction USA, 430 7th Avenue
5am-11pm: $15 off $75 purchase, $25 off $100 purchase (updated 11/25)

Footco, 249 W. 34th Street
8am-9pm: TBD

Forever 21, 50 W. 34th Street
5am-midnight: Undisclosed Sales

Fossil, 38 W. 34th Street
9am-9pm: Free (mystery) gift w/ any purchase

Game Stop, 1282 Broadway
6am-9pm: Wii for $149.99 with 2 items for trade (updated 11/25)

Gap, 1282 Broadway
6am Friday-9pm Saturday: BOGO free on Gap Body, Mens' PJs, fleeces for baby & kids, sweaters for adults (updated 11/25)

Garrett Popcorn Shops, 242 W. 34th Street
10am-10pm: No special sales, but you've got to stop by for The Mix. Yum!

Geox, 29 W. 34th Street
7am-9pm: Select items 30% off (updated 11/25)

GNC, 875 6th Avenue
8am-8pm: Gift items like juicers, MP3 players and massage chairs on sale

H&M, 47 W. 34th Street
5am-11pm: Currently giving out coupons for 25% off your regularly-priced Black Friday purchases. The store manager said he doesn't think they'll be handing them out on Friday, so get yours now! (updated 11/23)

H&M, 435 7th Avenue
5am-11pm: 25% off 1 item of your choice (updated 11/23)

JCPenney, Manhattan Mall
4am-midnight: Check mailer and website for sale details

Jim Hanley's Universe, 4 West 33rd Street
7am-11pm: 33% off before 9am, 30% off through Sunday

Kay Jewelers, 136 W. 34th Street
10am-9pm: 10-15% off listed prices

Kmart, 1 Penn Plaza
6am-11pm: TVs on sale, check website for details (updated 11/23)

Lane Bryant, 7 W. 34th Street
8:30am-11pm: 40% off everything in store (updated 11/23)

Le Chateau, 34 W. 34th Street
9am-10pm: Undisclosed Sales

LensCrafters, Manhattan Mall
8am-9pm: 30-50% off almost everything in store through 12/12

Lids, Manhattan Mall
4am-10pm: BOGO 1/2 off everything (updated 11/23)

Lush, 1293 Broadway
7am-11pm: Free gifts with select purchases (updated 11/25)

Macy's
, 151 W. 34th Street
5am-11pm: Check mailer and website for sale details

Men's Warehouse
, 10 W. 34th Street
9am-9pm: Ongoing sale of BOGO free suits & BOGO 1/2 off shoes, shirts and ties

Meridian Ladies Clothing, 977 6th Avenue
9am-7pm: No special sales, but this independent retailer has some great finds.

Modell's Sporting Goods
, 1293 Broadway
5am-11pm: Undisclosed doorbusters until noon

Old Navy
, 150 W. 34th Street
3am-midnight: 50% off outerwear, $15 jeans and sweaters for adults, $15 frost-free jackets for kids (updated 11/23)

Payless Shoe Source
, 110 W. 34th Street and 484 8th Avenue
8am-10pm: Ongoing sale of BOGO 1/2 off through 12/1; Text "sleeping" to 242424 for a % off coupon

Perfumania, 250 W. 34th Street
7am-8pm: BOGO perfume for $9.99

P.S. from Aeropostale, Manhattan Mall
4am-10pm: Free teddy bear w/ $75 purchase (while supplies last)

Radio Shack, Manhattan Mall
5am-10pm: $99 TomTom GPS; $99 12MP Kodak camera; check mailer and website for deals (updated 11/25)

Sephora, 130 W. 34th Street
6am-10pm: First 100 customers receive a gift card valued at $10-$500 (no purchase necessary)

Shoe Mania, 11 W. 34th Street
8am-11pm: 50% off everything (updated 11/23)

Skechers, 140 W. 34th Street
5am-midnight: TBD

Sprint PCS, 126 W. 34th Street
9am-9pm: LG Rumor 2 free after rebates, Samsung Reclaim $30 after rebates (updated 11/25)

Square One, Manhattan Mall
4am-11pm: TBD

Steve Madden Shoes, 41 W. 34th Street
6am-11pm: Scratch off cards w/ up to 40% off

Strawberry, 14 W. 34th Street
7am-8pm: 20% off everything before 11am (updated 11/23)

Strawberry
, Manhattan Mall
6am-11pm: 20% off everything (updated 11/25)

Tourneau
, 200 W. 34th Street
9:30am-7pm: No special sales. Stop by the world's largest watch store for beautiful pieces.

Victoria's Secret
, 1328 Broadway
6am-11pm: Ongoing sales of 5/$25 panties, 3/$24 body care (updated 11/23)

Victoria's Secret
, Manhattan Mall
6am-11pm: Ongoing sales of 5/$25 panties, 3/$24 body care (updated 11/23)

Zales
, 142 W. 34th Street
7am-9pm: TBD

Zara
, 39 W. 34th Street
7am-10pm: TBD

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Flirty Flowers at Ann Taylor Loft

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Vita who is graciously filling in as guest blogger.

I can always rely on Ann Taylor LOFT to feel pretty. Today, everything was purple, pink, and covered in flowers, promising fun and flirty outfits for all the upcoming holiday parties this season.

This crimson top (above left, $36.50) fit my curves perfectly. Paired with these dark boot-cut jeans (on sale for $29.99), I was starting to regret not bringing my wallet. The purple (right, $36.50) also came out pretty well but a little too muted for my taste; the crimson version was more "me."


And then this magenta top (left, $36.50) caught my eye. I tried it...and then I was having major credit card withdrawal. Too perfect. And look at the ruffled touches on this blue tee (right, $36.50)! Irresistible.

I am a big fan of the colder seasons because it’s the perfect excuse to snuggle up in comfy sweaters, drink hot cocoa (or wine!), and watch movies with that special someone. This purple scoop-neck sweater ($59.99) hugged me just right. Bonus: with my magenta tank underneath, I’d feel just as appropriate at work as I would on my movie date…or throw on a shimmery belt for under the mistletoe.




Ann Taylor LOFT, 35 W. 34th Street

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Bare Escentuals Giveaway Winner: Week Seven

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Catherine who is filling in as guest blogger.

Before the big announcement, a special treat for you: National Makeup Artist Renee Lynn Smith will be at the Bare Escentuals Herald Square boutique on Thursday, December 10th.

She's quite an expert with the brush and her schedule is filling up. Call 212-220-1900 today to make an appointment with her.

Now, drumroll please...


Liz has won a bareMinerals Get Started Kit from last Friday's Bare Escentuals giveaway! Send your mailing address and shade preference (check website for shade info) via email or Twitter and we'll pass the info to the nice people at the 34th Street Bare Escentuals store.

There's another chance every Friday, so stop by at the end of the week.*

Bare Escentuals, 44 W. 34th St. between 5th & 6th

*previous BE Get Started Kit winners on Fashion Herald can not re-enter. You already won, silly.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Maternity Wrap-Up, Part II: Do's & Don'ts

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Below is a post she prepared before leave.

Don't buy maternity clothes in the early months that fit you perfectly.


I did this with my H&M Mama denim leggings (left), and the last couple months they were borderline uncomfortable. I really wish I had gotten the large for a little more breathing room.


Do treat yourself to stylish maternity.

Nothing is going to make you happier than having some trendy pieces in your maternity repertoire, and it doesn't have to cost much! H&M Mama (dresses, right), JCPenney, Gap, and Liz Lange Target clearance online have all proven to me over and over that you can maintain stylish standards while pregnant.



Do look at non-maternity empire cuts and flowing dresses.


Forever 21 will be a great resource for those of you who don't carry big, and to get us big girls through a good 6-7 months. I wore the orange maxi dress (below left) through the summer, and I wore the long black (below right) to a summer wedding. I wish I'd gotten the blue print, too, for hot summer weekends.














Don't go cheap on underpinnings.

You're going to need a good maternity bra with solid support, and great underwear. I bought one maternity and one comfortable nursing/sleep bra. Opt for generous on size. Maternity sizes are supposed to be comparable to your non-maternity size, but this was not always the case with me. Also, if you've got a tight budget, keep in mind you'll need more nursing bras later and may go up again in size once nursing begins.

Underwear gave me the most trouble. I had a difficult time finding the right size, as I carried large and grew significantly bigger every month. Don't spend a lot of money early on: most likely you're going to grow out of those bits fast, and it's the final months that you're really going to need to invest in some huge, comfortable, quality underpinnings. Yes, prepare yourself for the granny panty. And go to JCPenney, they've always got good deals and a big selection. You'll definitely find the style you need (I had great success with Bali's Skimp Skamp briefs, which look nothing like they sound).

Don't forget maternity support hosiery.

Sounds awful, but your circulation is going to be compromised, and this can help prevent veins if your body is so physiologically inclined.


Don't spend $$ on shoes.

I know, the idea of a shoe buying moratorium for 9+ months is like torture. But the chances of your shoe size changing are big. Ok, don't freak yet, your feet may go back to pre-pregnancy size. But I wouldn't gamble, because at 8+ months my feet went from 9 to 10.5, and I couldn't get my foot into that alice+olivia boot for Payless (left). Instead, save your shoe allowance for a fabulous, post-delivery shoe splurge.


Do spend $ on shoes.

You'll need something with support that ideally slips on so you don't have to bend over and lace or buckle. Bending over is extremely challenging in later months. Buy practical and get a neutral color. Be prepared to compromise your shoe standards. Someone once commented "I don't know how pregnant celebrities wear heels all the time," but remember, celebrities have limos, drivers, and personal assistants who carry bags. If you don't have a car at your beck and call, buy one pair of shoes that you can walk everywhere in.


Do get a great pair of jeans.

This may sound crazy, but I had a stubborn mental block with maternity jeans. I refused to spend money on jeans that I'd wear for a limited time. But now I wish I'd gotten a pair months ago, because it's getting colder, I'm going to need them post-delivery, and I love jeans. I think I was convinced I needed to spend a lot of $ for designer jeans to get the right look, but I learned on 34th Street that H&M Mama, JCPenney, and Gap (very comfortable 1969 maternity jeans, left) all had modern styles for under $80.


Don't be scared of form-fitting clothes.

You're going to be amazed at how much better you'll look in tighter clothing. I don't mean tight as in uncomfortably tight; I mean clothes that hug your body. If I wore leggings and a t-shirt that was fitted, co-workers would always say "You don't look so big today." And this brings me to...


Do come over to the pro-leggings side.

I don't care if you're passionately anti-leggings, they will be your best friend. I had two pairs of Liz Lange 3/4 length leggings in black and grey for the summer and I wore them almost daily under dresses and skirts. Late summer I bought my long H&M Mama black leggings (right) that I'm a little embarrassed to say I wear almost daily. You'll feel comfortable and covered in leggings, and you can pair them with long shirts and tunics. Also, if you grow a lot, your upper thighs might be doing horrid things like touching where they formerly never met before. To be frank, leggings (and hosiery) under skirts and dresses will prevent chafing.


Don't be scared of looking too pregnant.

I have this big Liz Lange tent dress in which I look huge. I wear it on days I need to swim in something. This enormous waddling-woman look can get you good things: priority seating on subways and buses, the ability to cut lines at fashion week, and random congratulations from guys on the street and girls at your local Jamba Juice. Don't underestimate the advantages of looking really pregnant.


Do invest in trendy seasonal items
.

Splurge a little on these if you can. Although my black Old Navy one-piece suit was fine for the pool, I wish I'd invested in a more hip, mood-lifting two-piece for the beach. I feel even more strongly about the winter coat, as you'll wear it a lot more than a swimsuit.


Do allow yourself to freak out, call a girlfriend, and go eat lots of ice cream.

This may happen: one day you're going to look in the mirror, your body is suddenly no longer your own, nothing in your closet fits, and you'll call into work late, hormonal, and outfit-challenged (and you may, ahem, have a little cry while trying to catch the bus). Now is the time to speed dial a girlfriend/sister who will immediately recommend maternity shopping therapy and lots of high-fat dairy products.


H&M Mama located in H&M Herald Square, 34th & 6th Ave.
JCPenney Manhattan Mall, lower levels 1 & 2, 33rd & Broadway
Gap Herald Square, 60 W. 34th at Broadway
Forever 21, 50 W. 34th between 5th & 6th

Friday, November 20, 2009

Bare Escentuals Giveaway: Week Seven

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Catherine.

Bare Escentuals is giving away a free bareMinerals Get Started Kit every week here on Fashion Herald! Come back every Friday for another chance to win.

To be entered, leave a comment and tell us what your favorite winter lipwear is. Deadline is the following Monday at noon, when Kati and I will pick a winner from the official wooden Fashion Herald name-drawing bowl. Add an email address (or Twitter) so we can contact you if you win!

Last Call! We still haven't heard from Week 2 winner JessicaCRB or Week 4 winner Robbin. If we don't hear from you via email (fashionherald@urbanmgt.com) or Twitter (@fashionherald) by the end of November, some other lucky readers will reap the benefits.

Bare Escentuals, 44 W. 34th Street between 5th & 6th

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Boots Galore

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Lindsey who is kindly filling in as guest blogger.

We New Yorkers spend so much time walking around town, that what we put on our feet is as important as any other sartorial choice. On this particular day, I’m looking for the ubiquitous city boot with a twist. I happened to find several treasures at great prices in Daffy’s.

Joan and David boots with zipper and tie. These pretty things can be worn in the office and out and about.
$59.99 at Daffy’s, retail at $225


Nine West Black ankle boots. Simple but chic.
$89 at Daffy’s, retail at $139.99

Then I saw them…the perfect weekend boots. I’ve seen similar boots at vintage shops on Prince street for double the price!
$69.99

If you want to mix in some flair add these colorful knit tights and you’ve got a winning combination.

Le Gale tights in a variety of colors and patterns, $6.99












Daffy's, 34th Street & Broadway

Wendy Brandes Two-Day Pop-Up

While you're out shopping this weekend, take a detour and visit the fabulous Wendy Brandes' pop-up store! (Yes, the very same Wendy Brandes whose design was recently seen on Liv Tyler's finger.)

Fashion Herald, far far away in new mommy land, says:

A must-visit this week is Wendy Brandes’ pop-up shop, the most irresistible pop-up event this holiday season.

If you haven't been to her website, go now! I'm in love with the Tie Breaker Bow Tie Ring (sterling silver, $150) and the vibrant color of the classic Lady Jane Necklace (18k gold with genuine rubies, $6250). Seriously, there's something for every style and budget. Love it!



Wendy has collaborated with Christian Francis Roth to create some of her one-of-a-kind wares. Look for Francis the next time you're at Macy's Herald Square.

Wendy Brandes Pop-Up Shop, 48 Greenwich Avenue Macy's Herald Square, 151 W. 34th Street at Broadway

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Winter Kicks

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Martin who is graciously filling in as guest blogger.

In anticipation of winter, I like the look of these Nike ACGs (All Condition Gear)…waterproof, breathable, great traction on NYC’s slushy winter streets and super stylish. I’m partial to the neon orange; a splash of color even at the sidewalk level livens up any outfit. These are pricey though and will set you back $180 a pair. Well worth it though as ACG performance is legendary.


My other pick for stylish kicks are these Nike Dunks (currently on sale for $70); an old school classic with a modern feel. I especially like the use of black snakeskin texturing on these shoes.



And finally, cold weather is no excuse not to stay active and indoor basketball may be the perfect thing, especially wearing these Nike Hyperdunks. Light and supportive, they are perfect for lighting up the court. Forget about the Knicks playing terribly and get out there and work on your own jumpshot.



Foot Locker, 120 W. 34th Street at Broadway

Monday, November 16, 2009

Maternity Outtakes #I

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is on maternity leave. Below is a post she prepared before leave.


I thought I'd show a couple of the H&M Mama pieces that didn't make the cut during one of my maternity trips.

The bandage skirt. Yes, ouch, poor bambino! I so appreciate the spirit of this, but IRL it was too binding. And no, it's not zipped up all the way. I recommend this only if you are carrying small. $24.95.




















The cropped jacket. $49.95. Again, in fashionable spirit very impressive. IRL, not so great on me. Hello, bump, and the jacket appears so shrunken I should be laughing in that photo instead of looking so depressed!




















H&M Mama, available on 34th Street in the Herald Square store @ 34th & 6th

Friday, November 13, 2009

Give & Get and Friends & Family

Put on your shopping shoes...it's going to be a busy weekend.

Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy are holding their Give & Get sale. You get 30% off your purchases and the non-profit of your choice (or if you use the coupon below, the non-profit of my choice: Feeding America, an organization working to eliminating hunger) gets 5% of the purchase price.


Lane Bryant is having its Friends & Family weekend where you get 25% off just about anything in stores and online.



Both deals are good through this Sunday, November 15th. Don't forget to print out the coupons and bring them with you!

Gap, 60 W. 34th Street at 6th Ave
Old Navy
, 150 W. 34th Street between Broadway & 7th
Banana Republic
, 17 W. 34th Street between 5th & 6th
Lane Bryant
, 7 W. 34th Street between 5th & 6th

Thursday, November 12, 2009

The Every Tee

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Kati, in partnership with our friends at Lady Foot Locker 34th Street .


1 Great Shirt, 3 Different Styles: Sporty, Dressy, Casual

Snag four of these fitted, yet feminine cotton tees at Lady Foot Locker for just $20. This new and more flattering fit, with a slimmer cut is perfect for the gym, office, or daily wear. Choose from a variety of jewel tones to add a little flare to your wardrobe. Chic, versatile, and affordable. What are you waiting for?


Lady Foot Locker, 120 W. 34th Street between Broadway & 7th

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Seeing Purple

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Katie, who is graciously filling in as guest blogger.

There’s no shortage of shine right now at Bebe on 34th Street. When you walk in, head to the right side of the store for a large selection of blouses and funky tops. I was immediately attracted to everything in the most vibrant shade of purple and grabbed two asymmetrical tops for the fitting room.


The flowing fabric on the first one gave me a Studio 54 vibe, $69.

The second had pretty flower details on the shoulder for $10 more at $79.

Another purple number near the back of the store caught my eye. In my opinion, this ruched dress is a little pricey at $149 considering the quality level at Bebe (I feel like it should line up with Express’ price points).



I used to be scared of ruching, until I found out that when it’s placed correctly it can be really flattering. Alternatively, the wrong fabric gathering in the wrong places can lead to something that ends up looking more like this:



On a side note, I just added “capturing a clear shot of your own back, in a mirror, dim lighting, and five inch heels” to my list of “things that are not easy to do”. Innocently handed to me by the friendly salesgirl to try on with the purple dress, these shoes almost took me down in the dressing room. Look at those heels! And the platform!



Bebe also has a lot of fun, “on-trend” accessories ranging from $20 to $30 on a table at the center of the store. Think big chunky rings, metallic and rhinestone cuffs, and lots of multiple strand chain necklaces in silver and gold. Look closely and you’ll find a few items at half price.

Bebe, 1 W. 34th St. between 5th & 6th Ave.