CRAZY Nordstrom Rack Finds & December 2018 NYC Sample Sale Roundup

So it's been a while since I've really scored at Nordstrom Rack and I can't even tell you how mad I was when I heard my local Rack put out a ton of designer refurbs out on Saturday. The Rack takes returned shoes from their full line stores and fixes them up and sells them for about 70% off. Often they look brand new and if you're not picky you can grab some steals. Here is my latest haul—the Louboutins were $200 & $215 each, the YSLs were $275, The Rockstuds were $300, and the Guccis were both about $240. I actually didn't take the Monolo Blahniks and the Valentino sneakers. I didn't take the Rockrunners because they were $250 and I already got a pair for $99 at the yellow sticker TJ Maxx clearance a few years back. I also left the Hangisis because they were a little damaged (stained and scratched) and a little large—plus they were still $276. For me, for that price I would have needed perfect or a half size smaller or even $50 less. Maybe next time...

Linking up everything in my cart below so you can see what they are all currently selling for :)

And in-case you missed it all over my Insta and Facebook—check out my feature in the December 2018 InStyle magazine. As I wrote on my Insta; Never in my wildest dreams did I think at age 44 and a size 12/14 I would be featured in InStyle right next to Kendall Jenner and Alexis Bledel in my rainbow style. So crazy!

And FYI my Impress press-on nails are from the Alice + Olivia x Impress collab. Right now they have 25% off across their website and you can grab some here. These are not your mom's press on nails. They now have shorter nail lengths should you prefer not to have talons on your hands and they are so easy to use. I literally put mine on in less than 5 minutes on the subway or the bus on the way to events—perfect for busy mamas who don't have time to sit for a mani.

I should also mention, that the Show Me Your Mumu rainbow dress and Anya Hindmarch bag that I was featured in were both Rent the Runway rentals :)

As for Rent the Runway—I've really been enjoying my Unlimited membership. They've been sponsoring me for a few months now and I love having access to current high end pieces that I probably wouldn't get my hands on otherwise. It's a great way to try new designers and it's not just about renting a one off special occasion dress. They have coats, jeans, tops, bottoms, dresses, gowns, jumpsuits etc. That's not to say the system is not without flaws. If I rent something in the wrong size it can take forever to finally get your size. And sometimes the pieces shrink from dry cleaning. I rented this DVF dress 2x—the first time a 12 and it was ok but I wanted to try the 14 for length. And then the 14 was somehow smaller than the 12. Ugh. But I find if you pick up and return from the RTR store on 15th street it's a much faster turnaround and you can maximize your 4-at-a-time rentals.

Use code LEHOARDERPERK40 to take 40% off your first month of unlimited and get it for less than $100. Totally worth trying if you have a special occasion - with the discount it's basically the same price as a single rental—and then you get the whole month free!

For this look both the Heurueh coat and DVF dress were from Rent the Runway. And yes, I went pink again. I'll be sharing about that soon...

And now for this month's amazing sample sale roundup. Check back because I'll be sure to update to add feedback and add any really good sales that pop up. As always, check Chicmi or Shopdrop for updates but these are my picks for the month. I select my choices based on sales I've shopped in the past or have heard good things...and as always they have to be super designer or super cheap. Preferably both :)


A.V. Max has been a long time favorite for gifts and fun finds of my own. Pretty much everything is under $20 and they always have killer deals on earrings. Note their new address and be sure to say hi to Amy for me! I'll be stopping by at least once to this sale :) Read a past sale review here. 

A.V. Max
December 3-17
M 10-4, T 10-7, W-F 10-4
144 W. 37th Street, 3rd Fl


This is where I stock up on all my winter accessories on the cheap. I used to find them at Century for less (back when 90% off was really 90% off...) but now I pay a few bucks more at the sample sale.

Amato
December 4-14, 9-5 (Closed on Sat and Sun)
270 West 38th Street, Suite 902

I've been living in my Rent the Runway* DVF dresses and now I need to take a few home with me at sample sale prices. Their cuts are so much better than they were even 5 years ago and even at a size 12/14 they fit and flatter me to perfection. Check out my recent DVF dresses here, here, here, here and here.

DVF
December 4-9
T 10-8, W-Th 10-7, F-S 10-8, Sun 10-5
150 Green Street


Elizabeth Gillett is back again—I'm guessing because her sample sale last month fell smack in the middle of the snowstorm. I lived in her pieces all summer long. Grab some super cute caftans and wraps for your next beach vacay! 

Elizabeth Gillett
December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, all 10-6
260 West 36th Street, Suite #802


I always mean to check this one out and always forget. I'm really going this time LOL.

Natori
December 5-6, 10-4
180 Madison Avenue, Floor 19
ETA: I went 12/5 and undies area was pretty much cleaned out but the loungewear room (the second room) had a bunch of cute stuff. Grabbed a few robes and caftans for $10-20. I googled one caftan and it retailed for $275 :)


More cheap undies... #yesplease

Wacoal, b.tempt'd & CW-X
December 5-7, W-Th 10-6, F 10-2
136 Madison Avenue, 14th Fl
ETA: I went 12/5 and unless you're a size 34 bra you are pretty much out of luck. Lots of cup sizes but not band sizes :(


Last sale I grabbed some fun tights that I still haven't worn. But I will LOL. Note that some items are cash only.

Wolford
December 5-6, 10-4
33 7th Ave, Suite 1702


My favorite fancy girls dress sale. Check out my minis rocking their Halabaloo dresses here, here, here and here! Be sure to tell Halla I sent you!

Halabaloo & Dolls and Divas
December 7-11
F 9:30-6, Sat 11-4, M-T 9:30-6:30
423 West 43rd Street, Ground Fl


Start preparing for the madness. I didn't get to much the past couple sales but in the past I've scored $1,000+ dresses for $99. Go with your girl-gang and be prepared to fight LOL. 

Alice + Olivia
December 11-16
T 8-8, W 9-8, Th 10-8, F 9-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 10-5
260 Fifth Avenue

Cheap tights and socks are always a good idea. I went once in the past and scored $1 tights. 

Hosiery Sample Sale 
Dec 11-21, (M-F only) 10-5:30
35 West 35th Street, Room 703

If you're a sample size 7 I hear this sale is paradise. LMK what you find!

Butter, Something Bleu & Golo
December 12-14
W-Th 9-6, F 9-2
130 West 57th Street, Suite 1E


Last sale was a bust and watch out for resellers but with prices of up to 90% off it may be worth a peek :) Check out my epic steal of a bag from a past sale here. 

Altuzarra
December 13-14, 8:30-7
233 Broadway, 14th Floor


With prices starting at just $5—I plan on taking a peek. I haven't been before but if you have please let me know what you think!

Rachel Roy
December 13-14, Th 10-6, F 9-6
58 West 40th Street, Mezzanine Level


Fancy lady stuff for up to 70% off - don't forget to check out the runway shoes! And as long as you're at The Curated - be sure to check out the 11 Honore pop up too :)

Christian Siriano
December 14-17
F-Sat 11-7, Sun 12-5, M 11-7
The Curated, 5 West 54th Street


One of my favorite shoe and accessory sales is back! Hoping we will see the return of the $25 box!

Frances Valentine
December 17-18, 8-6
80 West 40th Street, 8th Fl


I have friends who swear by this sale. Especially when they do markdowns in the end...

French Connection
December 17-19, 10-7
512 Seventh Avenue, 25th Fl


A few sales ago it was epic. Recently not so much. But always worth a peek just in case :)

Marc Jacobs
December 18-23
T 11-8, W-Th 10-7, F-Sat 10-8, Sun 10-5
150 Greene Street


If you're sample sized this one is worth checking out. They've also had $25 bargain boxes and cheap runway shoes in the past...

Prabal Gurung
December 18, 8-7
247 West 37th Street, Suite 1501


Time to stock up on k-beauty and tons of gifts!

Tocca, Artis, Stila, Dr.Jart+
December 18-23
T 9-8, W-Th 10-7, F-Sat 10-8, Sun 10-5
260 Fifth Avenue


And that's my roundup! As always, if you see me out and about, be sure to say hello! I'm always happy to give you a few tips and help you edit your finds :)

Happy Shopping!

XO
Michelle

November 2018 NYC Sample Sale Picks & Jimmy Choo Haul!

I usually just add my New York City sample sale picks to the end of my blog posts but I decided to share a dedicated post that I'll be updating throughout the month. My formula for a great sample sale is super-designer and/or super-cheap. Half off last season's old bags is not a legit sample sale. I look for one of a kind runway samples, shoes worn once down the runway by a giant footed model (my size too!) or crazy cheap bins. The best sales are often in a designer's showroom—once the sale gets taken over by a sample sale company the prices tend to get inflated.

In case you missed all my latest IGTV videos, I've been sharing a peek inside my favorite sales as well as videos of my sale hauls. I've recently shared Jimmy Choo, Balenciaga, Rebecca Minkoff, Paul Andrew... Head to my Instagram and click on the little button of a TV on the left that reads IGTV to watch. Here is a pic of most of my Jimmy Choo sample sale haul (only one pair of $50 shoes are missing). This time I almost got kicked out of the sale AGAIN but I still managed to walk away with some amazing pretty current finds! Head to my IGTV to hear the full story and watch the full reveal and prices :)

As of now these are the sales that are on my radar for the month of November:

This sale is my go-to for kids inexpensive boutique-y hair accessories and baby gifts. 

The Best Kids Sample Sale
11/12-16, 10-5
34 W. 33rd Street, Floors 3, 5, 9, 12

Not the cheapest of sales but I'm a Eugenia Kim fan so I usually just pop by to take a peek—be sure to check at the end for markdowns. 

Eugenia Kim
11/13-16, 10-7
347 W 36th Street, Suite 505

I've personally never been but I've heard a few gals raving about this one. 
*ETA 11/14 I heard this one may not worth be the trip. 

LoveShackFancy 
11/13-16
T 10-7, W-Th 10-6, F 10-4
210 11th Avenue, Suite 500

I stumbled upon this sale last season and her kimonos became my summer staples. Check out my last sales scores here and here. Cute + inexpensive = #yesplease 

Elizabeth Gillett
11/14-16, 10-5
260 West 36th Street, Suite #802

Cheap undies and bras sounds like a no-brainer!

Samantha Chang
11/14-16, W 11-8, Th 11-7, F 11-6
171 Madison Avenue, Suite 307

I'm not exactly sample size right now but if you are be sure to check out their sample rack!

Cushnie
11/15-16, 10-7
251 West 39th Street, 8th Fl

What a sample sale should be—lots of cheap beauty stuff. Think holiday gifts!

Peter Thomas Roth & June Jacobs
11/5-15, 11-7:30
460 Park Avenue, 22nd Fl

The pop pom earrings that everyone raves about. Some cheap things (I've picked up stuff under $10 before) but the better stuff is gonna cost you $$$.

Tuleste
11/15-17, Th-F 10-8, Sat 12-5
191 7th Avenue, Suite 2R

My go-to for modest dressier dresses and gowns. Get there early to have fun with their one of a kind samples. You can see me wearing a never produced $75 sample dress here. And see a previous sale review here. 

Teri Jon
11/18-19, 9:30-5
241 West 37th Street, 2nd Fl

I always grab a bunch of Derek Lam sunnies from this sale! FYI it's usually cash only. Check out a past review here. 

Modo Eyewear
11/27-29, 11-7
594 Broadway, Suite 801

I've actually never went to this one but I've always wanted to. I've heard the sample rack is the way to go—otherwise prices are not so budget friendly. But her dresses are oh-so pretty...

Lela Rose
11/28-30, W 8-8, Th 9-7, F 9-3
260 West 36th Street, 2nd Fl

As for other updates, I'll be sharing a giveaway for a Gucci bag with Ebay Fashion on my Insta. Be sure to enter to win! Also, look for me in the December Issue of InStyle Magazine and I've also been selected by 11 Honore as a favorite plus sized influencer to follow. I had a few people comment that I'm not plus sized but what you should know is that 11 Honore starts their sizing at size 10. Right now I'm anywhere from a 10-14 depending on the designer. So many high end designers stop cutting at a size 8 which is insane because the average size of an American woman is probably closer to a 16. So I'm honored to be featured by a company that gives women designer options in sizes often overlooked.

Happy Shopping! Which sales are on your radar for November? Comment below!

Always Walk Into a Room Like Your Ex-Boyfriend Is Gonna Be There.

Happy New York Fashion Week everyone! It's always been my dream to attend NYFW and I've been fortunate enough to have several seasons now of ups and downs. You can read about some of my adventures from last round here and my guide to sit front row here. If you've been following my Insta rants this season has been particularly hard on me. I'm beginning to understand why so many girls eventually give up. But what separates us is that I'm 44. It's now or never for me.

There's no formula for being a successful blogger/influencer, but the secret sauce is confidence and a little bit of luck. Sometimes it feels like I've had a bajillion almosts in my career and my timing has always been off. The rejections are hard and my confidence has taken a hit. Coupled with now being a larger size in an industry where size 2 is the norm, I've been struggling to find clothing that makes me feel good about myself. For a girl who's had a love affair with clothing her whole life, I'm feeling like clothing isn't loving me right now. I feel like I've been having make it work moments on a daily basis—just to get out to door. It got me thinking about an incident that happened almost 20 years ago...

Back in the day when I was single and dating I used to try boyfriends on for size. I had a terrible habit of changing myself into who I thought they'd want me to be—and adapting myself to their lifestyle and needs. There were so many guys I didn't even really like, but I wasted time on them because I had nothing better going on. And I loved the idea of being in love. So I would pretend. I remember one guy coming back a couple years after we dated after hearing him tell people that I was the best girlfriend he ever had. Duh. And no, I didn't take him back.

There was this one guy who I wasted a summer with because I liked the feeling of being liked. And then when the like was gone I stuck around a little longer than I should have. In the end he just disappeared. After he ghosted me for about a month I decided it was time to start dating again, so I accepted a random blind date. After speaking to the new guy on the phone I wasn't really feeling it but I was hungry and back then I would accept dates just for a nice steak dinner. Yeah, I never said I was a feminist. So I dolled myself up and decided I was going to pretend this guy was the cutest, smartest, funniest guy ever. And then I saw him and I really did have to pretend. We ended up at one of my favorite places in my hood and I smiled and laughed and pretended like my ex was in the room watching. It was awesome. So I get home feeling quite proud of myself and I get a phone call....from my ex. Turns out he was at the restaurant. He saw me and got super jealous. I was so hyper focused on enjoying my date that I didn't even notice he was in the room too. The lesson in all of this is to always shine—even if you're not feeling your best. Someone is gonna notice.

When I was smaller I would look at plus size clothing and think 'wow, there's so many new options out there.' But when you're not small but not that large either—it seems there is a big gaping hole in the middle of the market. So few high end designers are putting out pieces in sizes larger than an 8 or 10. The plus size brands tend to start at 14, but cut for a fuller woman—so I'm neither here nor there. It doesn't help that most brands/showrooms only lend/give out clothing to gals who fit sample sizes.

So for Fashion Week I went ahead and signed up for Rent the Runway unlimited thinking that would be the answer. For $99 for your first month ($159 after) you can borrow 4 items at a time. Bonus - they have a NYC store where you can drop off and pick up new items if you don't feel like waiting for your shipment. But you have to order your first shipment online, and due to the holiday weekend it took much longer than I expected for it to arrive. So I open my bag—and the one dress I was really looking forward to had a giant hole in the front. I burst into tears. Needless to say, I have serious doubts about their quality control. It didn't help that two other items didn't fit well. This gorgeous Sachin and Babi Nurul dress was my 4th piece and it was actually pretty comfortable. I have to say that I love that Sachin and Babi cuts in up to size 16! I'll give you a full Rent the Runway review at the end of the month but so far not so good. As of now I don't plan on renewing my subscription. When I went to return my stuff at the store I spotted these cute Fleur Dusk earrings (also Sachin and Babi—mental note to go to their next sample sale!) that I planned on wearing with another look but they were so fun that I decided to do the red, white and blue thing and just go for it with this look.

I say I skipped the first day of NYFW due to the crazy heat but really it was because I was waiting on my RTR order to show up. For the second day I didn't want to wimp out again so I put on my new blue dress (FYI I'm wearing the size 12) and quickly matched up a white denim jacket and booties with my new blue Balenciaga. The only complete outfit I had at home included a wool sweater cape which was hardly appropriate for the 90 degree heat and humidity. Next year I plan on having a couple summer looks in the mix for the September shows.

I confess that I did skip half my shows on day 2. I hung out with my girl Belle instead at a couple Fashion Week lounges. At the Style Coalition/Launchmetrics lounge I popped by the Glamsquad booth to get my hair and makeup touched up—of course this was after we passed by all the street style photographers who shot me sans hair and makeup. Yeah. Probably not gonna see those photos anywhere. But my day turned around when we found Ebay Fashion's amazing purple display where Evan Lee took my picture. This guy is a genius. I saw him turn ordinary looking girls into supermodels. I also went to a Kate Spade presentation at the Samsung store (Kate rejected me for their actual presentation LOL), the Michael Costello show (so beautiful) and the WWD party. I met up with several gals (and guys) through out the day and overall it was a pretty good day.

And because I know you want to know...

Sunglasses: Shein, $4
Earrings: Sachin and Babi, Rent the Runway
Dress: Sachin and Babi, Rent the Runway (I'm wearing a size 12)
Jacket: Liverpool Jeans, c/o
Pin: Chanel, borrowed from my Grandma
Bracelets: Jennifer Fisher ($20, sample sale) & David Yurman (used a $500 giftcard from doing a focus group)
Bag: Balenciaga, sample sale, $350
Bag strap: Shein, $8
Shoes: Charles & Keith, c/o

You can shop my look here:

I've started putting together a bucket list for 50. So far it includes Paris Fashion Week, getting my first Birkin, and being CEO of something—other than my kids. Just putting it out there into the universe.

As for sample sales, I realize it's been a while since I gave you an update. They just extended the Herve Leger sale which looked amazing (not super cheap but lots of really well priced special pieces - see my Insta and stories here). Speaking of Rent the Runway, their sale is coming up but it's usually pretty pricey for well worn stuff. LXR and Co is also coming (designer consignment) which was hit or miss with a few deals in the mix last round. I also saw Rodarte is coming on 9/15 but you have to email them at: info@rodarte.net to get the deets.

Herve Leger x BCBG MAX AZRIA 
September 4-15
Sun  10-5 (unsure of other hours because they just extended)
150 Greene Street

Rent the Runway
September 11-16
T 11-8, W-F 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 10-5
260 5th Ave

LXR and Co
September 18-23
T-Sat 11-7, Sun 11-5
151 Wooster Street

Tomorrow I plan on hitting a few shows and events before Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year begins. So cheers to a new year filled with success, happiness, and heaps of confidence.

XO
Michelle

Life Is Short. Buy the Choos.

Sample sale land has been very good to me of late. Tis the season, I suppose. Typically the best NYC sample sales are around May/June and November/December. With discounts of 70-90% off it's pretty hard to resist all them designer deals. For a while I stopped sharing hauls and just shared bits and pieces as I wore them, but I kept getting haul requests. Here are all my Jimmy Choo, Charlotte Olympia, Rebecca Minkoff (part 2) and Modo Eyewear sale finds. You're welcome.

So let's start with the sample sale of all sample sales, Jimmy Choo. This was probably my worst haul to date because I was supposed to film a video for a collab that morning that ended up falling thru. So not only did I not get paid, I lost out on all the killer deals. By the time I got there (about 2pm) all the $50 men's shoes were cleared and bags were nothing special. Boo. They did have some boots marked $100 so I grabbed these two pairs and I plan to dye at least one black. See my $50 Jimmy Choo bag dyeing tutorial here. I actually already picked up the platform boots a while back in nude for $250 so it was a no-brainer. I love their wedges so I grabbed a basic pair which I'm kinda regretting. They are comfortable but a little too basic for my taste. We'll see. As an impulse buy I grabbed these shoe clips for $25 per pair. While most people would be happy with this haul, in comparison to previous hauls (here, here, here, and here ) it was pretty darn disappointing.

Rebecca Minkoff is hands down one of my all time faves. Her stuff is fun, colorful, and most importantly — super cheap! Everything pictured was $15-30 with the exception of the velvet Love crossbody bag. The only reason I "splurged" was because it was the bag I reeeeeealy wanted last sale and after seeing someone walk away from the sample table with it, I was slightly devastated. I probably didn't need it after finding the smaller pink satin one for only $15 but it's NWT so I can always flip it should I ever change my mind.

Note, this round was after some markdowns. Check out my round one here. From top center; guitar straps were $15 each, straw clutch was $30, pink satin Love was $15, glitter crossbody was $30, leather sample jacket was $30, white Jumbo Love was $30, black small Love was $30 and velvet Love was $50. I hit that sample table hard! Personally I love her mini bags because the chains are heavy so as they get larger, they get even heavier.

Then on to Charlotte Olympia. For some reason I just couldn't find any cute shoes in size 40. From Charlotte I look for crazy statement heels and for some reason that sale was lacking in that department — at least in my size. At the sale all shoes were around $150 which is pretty darn good for the higher end shoes. But when CO ran their own sales they always had some flats for $100 which was more palatable because at least you didn't have to pay tax (in NYC you have to pay tax on clothing and shoes over $110). They did mark down to $120 at the end but not much was left and it still wasn't cheap enough IMO.

Bags on the other hand were a really good deal — and much cheaper than when CO ran the sale. (This year's sale was run by 260 Sample Sale). Wallets were just $60 — and that red lips one retails for over $1,000! And I just couldn't resist her signature kitty wallet. Not to mention I love the internal organization - it's the best wallet I've purchased in years!! I'll be sure to share an Insta story soon so you can take a peek inside :) My rainbow clutch was just $175 from about $1,500 and my piece de resistance was my Lauren Atkinson patent leather crossbody bag (yes it has a strap too!) that retailed for $2,785 — and I scored it for $250. They had matching boots but of course they were not my size. And sadly they didn't have the matching rainbow shoes at the sale at all — they are currently on her website for 50% off (30% at most other places) but you know that's not good enough for me LOL.

Finally are my Modo scores — these Derek Lam sunnies were priced $30 each, and they retail for over $300. I got there on the last day so there wasn't much left.

You can shop some of my finds online (for more, sorry) below:

So that's my latest roundup! The good news is that even if you missed those sales, there are a few good ones coming up! Here are my picks for the next few weeks:

My favorite jewelry sale is back! Be sure to tell Amy (the designer) I sent you! With everything under $20 it's a great place to stock up on gifts! You can read a past sale report here. 

A.V. Max
June 4-8
M 10-4, T 10-8, W & Th 10-4, F 10-2
39 West 38th St., 10th Fl

I always find the cutest dresses for my girls at this sale! Last sale I scored the navy butterfly dresses my girls wore to my son's Bar Mitzvah at the kotel —  seen here. 

Halabaloo
June 6-8, 9:30-6:30
423 West 43rd Street, Ground Floor

If you have a black tie event and you're sample size you can find some killer deals here. They do have stock sizing (and all her other styles) for waaaay less then you'd find at Neiman Marcus :) If you go, get there early because lines are insane. Check out a past sale report here. 

Teri Jon
June 10-11, 9:30-5
241 West 37th Street, 2nd Fl

I have a love/hate relationship with the Alice and Olivia sales. Those resellers are out for blood at this one. But I've scored $99 leathers and my favorite lace dress for not much more. Get there early and come often for replens. Read a past sale report here. 

Alice and Olivia
June 11-16
M 12-8, T 9-8, W-Sat 10-8
260 5th Ave

I've only ever once gone to this one but I got there late and missed everything. Go early. 

Sachin & Babi 
June 11-14, 11-8
140 West 42 St, 2nd Fl

Happy shopping! If you hit those sales, I'd love to hear about your favorite scores!

XO
Michelle

The Story of a Dress.

Sponsored by Zappos

I've always been a dress girl. I'm not even the girliest girl. I have a bit of tomboy in me. My knees are permanently gray from all the scars from competitive sports and climbing trees in my youth — in dresses. I am simply dress obsessed. I believe that when you put on the right dress, you can take over the world. I've teamed up with Adrianna Papell, who is known for their fashionable, quality dresses, and Zappos.com to share the story of my perfect dress — and tips to help you find yours too!

When I'm in a rush (which is pretty much always LOL) I grab a dress, some cute shoes, sunnies and a bag...and I'm out the door. It's the ultimate momiform. There's no top and bottom to match, which is a huge time saver for this busy mom on the go. Dresses are such a simple way to look polished.

Like most moms (especially over 40) my body isn't what it used to be. When I was shopping for my son's Bar Mitzvah I walked into a store, grabbed 50 dresses, and stood in the dressing room for almost an hour. I grew increasingly frustrated as one after the next did not fit or flatter. I did magically finally find one, but since that experience I've been doing a whole lot more on-line shopping so I could try on in the comfort of my own home.

People like to talk about body confidence and loving the body they're in. Truthfully it's hard. I don't need to be a size 2 or any specific number but I've been finding myself in a rut, hiding in oversized clothing. I decided it was time to push myself outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself find something a little more flattering.

The story of this dress wasn't without a hiccup or two. Ordering on Zappos.com is super easy. I combed through tons of stylish Adrianna Papell dresses until I selected the most beautiful boho embellished dress. When it arrived I quickly put it on...and it didn't zip up. They had been sold out of my size (10) so I was hopeful that I could size down — and I couldn't. So I printed a return slip, packed it back up and returned it. Then I found this chic blue dress and I loved the high low hemline and body skimming shape — and decided it was worth a shot. But I played it safe and sized up to a 12. Big mistake. I tried it on and knew it would be perfect - in a size 10. So I once again, returned the 12 and ordered a 10. And eureka, it fit. So a huge thank you to Zappos for their amazing fast, free shipping and super easy 365 day return policy. FYI Zappos also carries petite and plus sizing for Adrianna Papell, so chances are you're gonna find your perfect fit too.

Knowing your body shape is key. I used to be more pear shaped but now I'm pretty curvy all over. I do love a good a-line style because it shows my shape without hugging my body. I think this dress is successful for me because of all the vertical lines that help draw the eye up and down and creates length. I'm only 5'5" but I tend to look taller because I try to create verticals in my photos. One tip is to make sure your photographer crouches down and shoots you from a lower point. And don't forget those heels! I also think the open neckline extends my neck, and this front panel creates another vertical that (bonus!) also helps cover lumps and bumps. Most importantly, the flutter sleeve helps strengthen my shoulders and balance my hips. I do wish the sleeves covered a little more (I'm a little self conscious of my upper arms) but I went and looked back and photos from a year ago when I was probably 20 lbs lighter and found a bunch I didn't share because I thought I looked too big — and honestly I wish I still looked like that. So now I'm going to try not be so hard on myself and focus what I do like about myself in this dress. I love the color. I love the versatility. I love the simple elegance. And I love that I feel more like myself in the dress — more than I've felt in a while.

Why not make every day a special occasion? Treat yourself to your perfect Adrianna Papell dress —  you can thank me later. What do you look for in a dress? Is it more about style, how it fits, or how it makes you feel? For me, it's all of the above.

Thank you to Zappos for kindly sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest & completely my own.

 XO
 Michelle

Not Your Grandmother's Comfort Shoes!

Sponsored by Zappos

In my twenties I was all about 6 inch heels and stupid shoes that 20 years later I've come to regret. I've since made it my mission to hunt down cute and comfortable shoes that I can wear all day long without shedding a tear — or needing to pull out the band-aids. Last year I spotted the cutest Pikolinos sandals online (which sadly sold out before I could pull the trigger) and I have not stopped thinking about them. Ever since then, Pikolinos has been on my radar, so I was excited to team up with my friends at Zappos.com to share my hunt for the perfect spring sandals!

If you haven't shopped Zappos before, you don't know what you are missing. They have a huge selection of current styles, free shipping and free returns, a 365 day return policy, and hands down the best customer service ever. As a busy mom, some days fly by with deadlines and chores... and before I know it, it's 10pm and I haven't left my house. Nothing makes me happier than shopping online in my PJs after my kids are in bed.

Right now, there are over 100 Pikolinos sandals to choose from so narrowing it down was the most difficult part of the process. Their philosophy is to "make yourself comfortable and let happiness begin at your feet." What's so special about this Spanish company is that Pikolinos is so much more than just comfort shoes. I love that they are socially responsible with their eco-friendly use of materials, and give back through their foundation Juan Perán-Pikolinos — both locally and internationally.

After reading tons of user reviews and watching those handy little Zappos videos (so I could get an idea of what the shoes would look like on the foot), I finally selected these Pikolinos Mykonos sandals in Marfil — the perfect pale blush-nude color. You know me and pink! I love how comfortable and lightweight the footbed is and I was able to wear them all day long on one of my City shopping adventures last week. I also love that they have a little bit of height to them — I actually find it uncomfortable when shoes are completely flat. I would totally order another pair of Pikolinos on Zappos, especially if my dream shoes ever magically come back in stock!

Who else is so done with uncomfortable shoes? Don't get me wrong, I love my crazy shoe collection. I can still pull out my heels and wear them for 3-4 hours at a shot, but I'm so happy to have another pair of cute, comfortable shoes in my arsenal.

Thank you to Zappos for kindly sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest & completely my own.

 XO
 Michelle

My $15-30 Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale Scores!

The Rebecca Minkoff New York City sample sale is back and it's no joke. I attended the sale at the VIP opening and it was the best it's been in years. $15-30 samples made a comeback and there are killer deals to be found. Sale is on thru Sunday so I suggest to take a trip and see what you can find!

Everything above was $15 other than the sample boots (this year they had size 6 thru 10!) and the pink mini Love and the satin embroidered Love - which were all $30. Not bad considering the satin Love retailed for $345!!! Love me some 90% off Loves!

Don't worry, I clearly didn't take everything. I tried to edit down and I'm thinking maybe I over edited. I thought I would return but this week has been cray and I'm not sure I'll have the chance. Sample bags have been $50-75 at opening for a while (with discounts on beat up leftovers at the end) so I was thrilled to spot tons of cute cheap bags as well as $30 leather pieces on the clothing sample rack. For samples, green tags are $15, yellow is $30. They had a round of markdowns today (no more $50-75 for samples!) and I'm sure at least one more round will happen before it's over. Right now everything at the sale is $175 or less with exceptions of the furs for $425.

Everything in the picture below was just $15. Insanity!

The leather jacket is tiny so Ella stole it - she actually stole the vest as well and decided to wear it inside out. I swear my daughter is a fashion prodigy. Both of these yellow tags were just $30 :)

I'm linking up some of my finds that I found online too (not as cheap, sorry!) should you need them too!

And now on to sample sale land. Tis the season, baby! There are tons but these are my favorite picks...


Last day of Choo is tomorrow! You know the drill! (For more tips see my previous post.)

Jimmy Choo
May 11, 8-8
Metropolitan Pavilion 
123 W 18TH ST, 2nd Fl


Minkoff is on thru Sunday - plenty of time to pick up lots of cheap gifts!

Rebecca Minkoff
May 11-13
F 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 10-4
260 5th Ave


If you watched my Insta stories this week you saw that they had cheap samples! Not sure of they are restocking any more but if you're in the hood it's worth a pop in. 

Elizabeth and James 
May 11-13
F-Sat 10:30-7, Sun 10:30-5
Chelsea Market, 75 9th Ave (Prive Sales)


This is the first time 260 is getting CO so it's hard to say what the prices will be like. When the brand ran the sale it wasn't all that cheap so I'm worried it's gonna be even more now. That said, I plan on checking out the preview so stay tuned...

Charlotte Olympia
May 22-27
T 9-8,W-Th 10-7, F-Sat 10-8, Sun 10-5
150 Greene Street


Always worth checking out the Modo sale for designer sunnies on the cheap :)

Modo Eyewear 
May 22-24, 11-7
594 Broadway, Suite 801

Not sure what pricing will be like on this one but I saw a pair of their sandals at Bloomies that I have my eye on so finger crossed! 


Sensi Studio x Avec Modération 
May 15-17, 10-5:30
611 Broadway, Suite 321

Any other sales on your radar? Please do share! 

Happy Shopping and Happy Mother's Day to all! I just did a Mother's Day Collab with the beauty brand Amaranthum - you can see the short version here. I'll link up the whole video soon. 

XO
Michelle

$20 Spring Refresh, Amazon Edition

Spring has sprung and when the seasons change I'm always on the hunt for a quick wardrobe refreshers. The easiest way to switch things up is with beauty and accessories so I'm gonna share the last five purchases I made on Amazon - all for $20 or less.

I do get a lot of free stuff but sometimes I need to bite the bullet and pull out my wallet to treat myself to a few odds and ends. This post contains affiliate links - meaning I get a small (really small) percentage should you purchase any of my picks. So thank you for supporting my shoe habit. Speaking of which, the Jimmy Choo sample sale was just announced so start saving RIGHT NOW! As always, all of my upcoming NYC sample sale picks are listed at the end of my post. But first let's talk sunglasses.

One of my mom hacks is to skip makeup and grab a pair of cute sunnies and a lipstick and head out the door. I look for bold, colorful ways to make an impact on the cheap. These YSL heart dupe sunglasses are perfect for that. And about 10 bucks. If you have money to burn you can buy the originals here - or grab these cuties in a rainbow of colors. I'm thinking about a second pair in pink or white.

I really wanted to love these pink sunglasses after I spotted them all over Instagram but I guess my face is too big. I need to find an oversized version ASAP. Luckily they are perfect for Ella so she stole them and wore them for most of our Israel trip.

They too are offered in a bunch of colors and for less than $10. If you have a petite face or don't mind tiny sunglasses than these are perfect for you.

I ran out of my Anastasia Brow Wiz pencil a while back so I was trying to manage with all my freebies. The Brow Wiz is by far the best eye pencil I've ever owned. I wear taupe (the blonde is a little too orangy for me - probably better for a strawberry blonde) and it looks so natural. My only issue is that it's a retractable pencil and every time you twist it up, it cracks off. So there is a lot of waste. Drives me nuts. When I was googling after I caved and decided to purchase another one, the NYX Micro Brow Pencil popped up as a dupe. So for less than half the price (and under $10!) I decided it was worth a shot. I just ordered this week it so I'm gonna have to let you know how it works out.

I'm always on the hunt for another LBD and I love that the Daily Ritual Women's Jersey Sleeveless V-Neck Dress covers my knees but has an open neckline without showing cleavage. It's the perfect layering dress and my arms don't get bulked up with sleeves under a jacket. I got a size large (I put on a few more lbs...) and it's super comfortable and flattering. Perfect for this transitional weather. And this one is $20 on the nose.

While some people love their popsockets, I wanted the ring version so it wouldn't fall off my hands - plus I think it helps keep your phone a little more stable when taking pics or video. I saw a lips version but it would take a couple months to get here. So I found these cute colorful fruity ones with Prime for less than $5. I'll give you a review on my Insta stories when I get it.

And now lets talk sample sales. Not all sales were created equal and most sales in the City these days are not worth your time. If you're new to the sample sale scene, any and all sales are exciting but you'll find your paychecks disappearing, and you end up with random pieces and that morning after feeling of what was I thinking. So I'll save you some time (and $$$) by pointing you in the right direction.

This week there is Aquazzura but my friends who hit the preview last night all agreed the selection wasn't amazing and it was too expensive. Wait for markdowns.

Aquazzura
May 2-6
W 9-8, Th 10-8, F 10-1
150 Greene Street

Minkoff used to be my favorite sale. I still go for nostalgia's sake but the deals aren't as epic. Sample bags are now $100 or less which is decent - but for a little more I'd rather have a $1,000 Choo bag. I always find a few pairs of shoes (usually samples) and last round I found these one of a kind white booties ($30 samples!) which I love. (I also got that fringed clutch in the pic for $50 at the sale). They used to have last day markdowns of $50 or less for everything but those days seem to be gone. They usually markdown mid sale and last day, so pop in whenever you're in the neighborhood. Samples are replenished throughout most of the sale so it gets a little hectic at that sample table. This sale is not for the faint of heart. You were warned.

Rebecca Minkoff
May 7-13
M 11-8, T-F 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 10-4
260 5th Ave

With Choos for $100 or less (on the last day) this sale is no joke. If you're gonna fly in for just one sale this is it. You'll save enough to justify the price of your plane ticket. Register here with code ROMY for general entry. Go first day for best selection or last day for markdowns. In the past markdowns started 2 hours before close, however one year it started at noon. You never know. Problem is if they see you sitting around for too long they throw you out (they did that to me one year). So often I'll go sometime around lunchtime to scope out the situation and then return for markdowns. Problem is that shifty resellers manage to stay under the radar with the bags and bags of stuff and they get the good stuff early. I think they take turns switching off. But when the markdowns hit and people start to edit - you can find lots of good go backs. That's how I found my fave snake Lockett bag one year. Bring your Ikea bags to lug your hauls home.

Jimmy Choo
May 9-11
W 11-8, Th & F 8-8
Metropolitan Pavilion 123 W 18TH ST, 2nd Fl


If you shop any of these sales, be sure to share what you get! Which sales do you plan on hitting this week? And be sure to share your sample sale tips if you have any recommendations for sales that you think I should add to my list!

PS I have another designer giveaway on the gram right now - check it out HERE. AND I have a mommy and me giveaway with Nina Shoes (& Nina Kids Shoes) - enter HERE!

XO
Michelle