Thursday, December 4, 2008

Look Foxy for Less!

Foxy Originals are having a friends and family sale on Wednesday, December 10th from 6:30pm-10pm at the Manyata Courtyard Cafe in Hazelton Lanes Atrium located at 55 Avenue Rd, Toronto ON. Select jewellery will be priced from $10-$40.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale will go to Horizon Arts Camp and Bloorview Kids Foundation.

umbra factory sale

The ever popular yearly umbra factory sale will take place Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th from 9am-6pm at the CNE Direct Energy Centre (hall A) in Toronto. Anyone donating $2 to the SickKids Foundation or a non-perishable food item to the Daily Bread Food Bank will receive a free gift.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Toy and Book Warehouse Sale

Samko&Miko are having their 35th annual warehouse sale. They have four locations to shop and save at.
Nov 7-16 at Lansdowne Park, Aberdeen Pavilion in Ottawa - Sat to Tues 10am-5pm, Wed to Fri 10am-8pm;
Nov 21-30 at the Western Fairgrounds, Canada Building in London ON - Sat to Tues 10am-5pm, Wed to Fri 10am-8pm;
Now until Dec 21 at 77 Fima Cres in Toronto and 60 East Beaver Creek Rd in Richmond Hill - Wed 10am-4pm, Thurs/Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 11am-5pm.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Another P&G Sale

Procter&Gamble is holding their warehouse sale from
November 16-30 at the International Centre in Mississauga located at 6900 Airport Rd, in Hall #6. The hours are Mon-Fri 11am - 8pm and Sat & Sun 10am - 6pm.
Get up to 75% off Cover Girl cosmetics, up to 80% off designer fragances and up to 65% off name brand watches. You will also be able to buy discounted itmes from Cambridge Towel and Bath Creations. Check out the children's section and get up to 65% off clothing from R.W. Kids, Levi's, OshKosh, Kushies, Absorba and more.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Get Preppy Cheap

On October 24th a Banana Republic Factory Store and a GAP Factory Store will open at Vaughan Mills. You'll be able to stock up even more on your favourite basics from these two stores thanks to the discounted prices.
Vaughan Mills, 1 Bass Pro Drive, Vaughan ON

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Bath & Bodyworks

They've also made their way to Canada too! They're located right across from Crate & Barrel at Yorkdale Mall. The store is really small and jammed packed full of yummy stuff. You could go into sensory overload smelling all of the body lotions, shower gels, candles etc. Make sure to check out the mini-sized bottles at the back of the store. A great way to spend minor bucks to find out if you like certain products and these minis will definately be a big hit come holiday time when looking for fabulous stocking stuffers.
Another fab product - the scented and tinted tubes of lipgloss.
www.bathandbodyworks.com

Crate & Barrel

They've finally made it to Canada. I visited their Yorkdale Mall location last week. Think Pottery Barn meets Pier 1 with a little William Sonoma thrown in for good measure.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Another CG Sale

Cotton Ginny is having a buy one get one free sale on all red ticket items. This great offer takes place from Thursday, Oct. 9th until Monday, Oct. 13th.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Last Chance!

The Hadassah-Wizo Bazaar has been an annual event in Toronto for the past 84 years and this year will be it's last. I've always wanted to attend this shopping extravaganza and this year I'm making sure I do.
The event is being held Wednesday, October 29th from 9am-7pm in the Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place. Apparently people start lining up at 6am to be the first to get in and take advantage of the unbelievable deals they have to offer.
I won't be lining up that early, but I do plan on spending many hours there checking everything out.
So mark your calendars, book the day off work and shop 'til you drop!

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Big Cotton Ginny Sale

Cotton Ginny is having a buy one get one free sale on all capris, shirts, shorts, tee, tanks, flip flops and sweaters. Second item must be of same or lesser value. This sale applies to red ticketed items only and does not inlcude their Onology line.
Act fast as the sale only runs for four days: September 18-21.

Monday, September 8, 2008

What's New on Orfus Rd

I have visited the past two weekends. Knew it would be busy on the long weekend, but not as crazy busy as it was. There were hot dog vendors and ice cream trucks lining the street!! Some stores were so busy I didn’t even bother going into them. I thought it would have died down this past weekend due to everyone having spent all their money the weekend before, but was so very wrong.
Some of the new and/or notable things I came across during my visits: Labels is gone (no big loss). Bluenotes has opened up in a newly renovated space and Sirens has moved next door to them. Jessica Nails has reduced the price of their OPI nail polish from $8 to $6. Also check out the China Glaze line of nail colours for $4. The Nine West outlet (53 Orfus Rd) has fabulous round toed shoes with four inch stacked heels and an ankle strap in black, gray and red. Originally $135, reduced to $67.50 now priced at $9.99.
Roots has a variety of tees marked down to $9.88 or 2/$22 from their organic line. Check out Costa Blanca for a great wardrobe staple for fall: the silk chiffon, bowtie neck blouse in black, white, purple or blue for only $10 each.
Costa Blanca is also offering 2/$10 and 3/$10 on numerous items. Be warned though, there are no change rooms and you aren't allowed to try on items 'on the floor'.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Exciting Shoe News

STYLESENSE: shoes and accessories, is opening on September 4th in two locations. They offer brand name and designer styles at great low prices and have constantly changing inventory.
The grand openings of STYLESENSE at Vaughan Mills and at Oakville Place take place on September 4th at 9:30am.

Stock Up This Long Weekend

Revlon, Johnson & Johnson, Jean Machine and more are having an 8 day warehouse sale at the Pickering Markets - Trade Hall: August 28th to August 31st and September 4th to September 7th. There will also be Cambridge towels on sale and assorted house and giftwares, including As Seen on TV items.
Hours are Thursday, Friday 10-8pm, Saturday & Sunday 9-5pm
1400 Squires Beach Rd, Pickering ON (east of Brock Rd at Bayly St)
www.saleevent.ca

Thursday, August 14, 2008

It's Official

Travelling to Kitchener/Waterloo/St. Jacob’s has now become a yearly event for me. The weather was much cooler this year and I made sure to go on a Tuesday so I could shop at the outdoor farmers market. I was overwhelmed by the number of booths selling fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, honey and preserves and was told that it’s actually three times bigger on Saturdays! It was great to be able to buy and eat locally grown, fresh produce.
The best part or course is going to the outlet mall to take advantage of all the extra sales on end of season clothes. This time around Jones New York was very disappointing but Liz Claiborne was shopping heaven! They were offering an additional 25% off their already reduced prices and there were lots of beautiful summer items to choose from. I did reign myself in and purchased only three items – a top, a purple wrap dress which will be perfect for fall and a black and white checked trench coat. All the items were a steal with the dress being the best purchase - originally $65, marked down to $40 plus an additional 25% off!
I also popped into a store that I had totally ignored last time (Red Coral Classics) because they specialize in very dressy clothing and I wasn’t on the hunt for anything fancy. This time they had two fabulous patent leather handbags in the window – one white with black roses along the top and the other one all in red. The black and white one was very Chanel-like.
On the way back to the bus station we stopped off at Steve’s TV to check out DVD’s. At the front of the store you will find the latest in flat screen TVs and in the back you can rent or buy movies. They have a large selection of both new and previously viewed DVD’s at very reasonable prices. The previously viewed were $5.99 each or 5 for $25 and the new one’s started at $9.99. Their section of TV shows on DVD is quite extension and includes both popular and not-so popular American and British programs. They were actually showing The Best of the Muppet Show (with a super-young, egoless Elton John as one of the guest stars!) while we were there.
And I can’t forget to mention Oxford Mills where I bought two, 100% cotton 300 count sheet sets for $54 including the taxes!

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Calling All Shoe-a-holics

I’ve just been introduced to a wonderful little shoe store a couple of doors down from the fitness studio I go to. The store is called Balisi. Shoes (for both men and women) are definitely their specialty but they also carry handbags, clothing and accessories. This is the place you’ll find shoes you don’t see in all the major chains. Drool over brands such as FLY London, Colcci and Not Rated. The staff is all smiles and incredibly helpful. New styles for fall have just begun to arrive and their discounted summer shoes are an additional 25% off.
Big thank you to Shannon at Aradia Fitness who tipped me off about the store and their great summer sale.
2 locations – 711 Queen St W and 668 College St, Toronto ON

Monday, August 11, 2008

Fall is Coming . . .

and I couldn’t be happier! The stores are starting to receive their fall merchandise and the September issues of fashion magazines (hundreds of pages of cooler weather fashions) are starting to hit the stands! That means stores are offering further reductions on summer sale merchandise. At Ricki’s you can buy 1 get 1 for half price on summer skirts, pants, tops and dresses. Smart Set is offering an additional 50% off all ready reduced summer styles and they also have great new tees for just $10.

Friday, August 1, 2008

Affordable Faux


It looks like big baubles are back, at least for fall/winter 2008. Many designers accessorized their looks on the runways with large necklaces, bracelets and cocktail rings. We’re talking necklaces large enough to warrant extra strong neck and shoulder muscles just to wear them around all day. I won’t be rocking that trend due to my week neck but I have no problem lugging around large baubles on my fingers.
Fabulous Fakes ®/MD makes lovely, large rings for only $9.99. You can choose from flower shaped rings with clear crystals, larger than life pearls in black or white, coloured square-cut gems or lovely art deco designs.

available at Sears Stores

Monday, July 7, 2008

Sales! Sales! Sales!

Zola Shoes - they're closing their 45 Avenue Road location (Yorkville) so you can save up to 80% on in-stock shoes but only until July 26th.

Cotton Ginny - buy two tees or tanks at the regular price and get the third one free; beautiful cotton sweaters on sale for $19.99 and $29.99; also check out the cotton tunics reduced to $39.99 in either black or white with same coloured embroidery - these are great for dressing up or down in summer time.

Reitmans - their end of season sale is now on. Save up to 70% off spring and summer fashions. They had cute plaid blouses marked down to $3.99!

Addition Elle - the sale here is a little tricky. Some items are an additional 30% off the sale price and some are an extra 50% off the sale price. There are also selected new items that have been reduced by 25%.

MEXX – take an additional 25% off already reduced men's and women's clothing and accessories. I’ve never gone into this store because it always seemed rather preppy. Much to my delight they have beautiful flowy tops and dresses. A large portion of the jewellery is marked down to $7.99-$11.99 and with the additional 25% off, this is a great deal!

French Connection – up to 50% off selected items. This store has cute stuff but I’ve always found it crazily overpriced.

Le Chateau – selected items have been marked down (tops, jewellery, dresses, shoes) but I would suggest checking out the new viscose scarves for $25 each. They’re the ones that look and feel like pashminas but aren’t.

Bedo – semi annual sale offering 50% everything off in the store excluding new arrivals.

Costa Blanca – an additional 50% off items already on sale.

Yarn & Knitting Shop

A new yarn store has opened up at 456 Queen St West called Yarn & Knitting Shop. They don’t carry all those fancy yarns that are popular right now, but they do carry some of the softest yarns you’ve ever touched. The store is set up with the skeins hanging around the perimeter and at the back of the store there are beautiful blankets and knitted bags as well as a small selection of wool fabrics.
For all of you newbies out there, they offer free knitting classes on Sundays – make sure to sign up in advance to guarantee yourself a spot as classes are small and fill up quickly.
456 Queen St W, Toronto ON M5V 2A8 ph: 416-777-9747
www.americo.ca

Thursday, June 26, 2008

I Want to Shimmer not Glow

It’s summer. The capris and shorts are out and so are the lily white legs. I prefer to have legs that shimmer instead of faux glow, but finding a product that doesn’t ‘tan’ your skin is nearly impossible. Some of us just can’t use bronzing products. No matter how expense, technologically advanced or tested a self tanner is, we still end up streaked, orange, stinky and with major transfer problems (especially when wearing white).
When the weather started to warm up I pulled out my bottle of Jergens Shimmer lotion and decided I better buy a new one as this one had been opened for the past two summers and was smelling a bit “off”. Little did I know the quest I would end up on. I scoured store shelves for weeks but everyone, including Jergens, only makes self tanning lotion this time of year (possibly any time of year as I also checked out websites to no avail).
I came across an ad for Burt’s Bees Radiant Body Lotion with Royal Jelly in Allure. So when a colleague of mine headed to the States, I gave her the ad to take with her and asked her to pick me up a tube if she saw it anywhere. It looks shimmery when coming out of the tube but isn’t as impressive once on the skin.
So I went looking again. This time I found Bonne Belle Gel Bronzer in Luminous Glow. Not a bronzer/self tanner but a shimmer gel for light coloured skin. Once again very impressive coming out of the tube not so impressive on. If you decide to give this one a try I would suggest using a make-up sponge or brush to apply it or you will end up with more shimmer on your palms then anywhere else.
Needless to say, I’m still looking for the perfect product to replace my Jergens Shimmer lotion.
For something more glitter and less shimmer there’s Lise Watier Glitter Gel for face and body (Étoiles de Mer being my fave) and MAC Iridescent Powder in Silver Dusk. I like this one because the more you perspire, the better it clings to your body so it's perfect for hot, steamy summer nights. For glimmer on the lids but no glitter in the eyes try MAC Liquidlast Liner (their Electrolady is a true purple).

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

And Summer's Just Begun!

According to my calendar, the first day of summer was on Friday. I think the stores have a different calendar than I do. Summer sales have already started and retailers seem determined to get rid of their warm weather stock.

Suzy Shier - buy one get one half price on regular priced items; take an additional 50% off already reduced items; jewellery is buy one get one free; did you know they carry shoes now?

Fairweather - tank tops and camis for $10 in great colours; take an additional 50% off sale items.

Trove - 25% off purses, hats and clothing; 35% off selected jewellery; 30% off selected shoes; the shoes and handbags are definately worth checking out.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Condos Condos Everywhere

Good thing, bad thing? Due to the condo/hotel monstrosity going up at Yonge and Bloor, an entire block and a half of retail is being elminated. The Shoe Company at 711 Yonge Street will be shutting its doors on June 30th so they're having a closing sale. That means you get a discount on their already discounted merchandise. So, good thing, bad thing? You decide.
location: 711 Yonge St, Toronto ON (just south of Bloor)

Monday, June 2, 2008

Another Warehouse Sale to Check out

Revlon and Johnson&Johnson are having a warehouse sale with up to 75% off selected products. The sale starts June 3rd and runs until June 8th at the International Centre, located at 6900 Airport Road, Hall #3, Mississauga ON.
Jean Machine will also be there selling brand name jeans at reduced prices (SilverJeans, Foxy, Mavi, Parsuco) and Dickies will be there too offering great deals on cargo pants, shorts and jackets.
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am-8pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 11am-5pm

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Accessories On SALE

The cheapest and easiest way to dress up an outfit or freshen up and outfit is to buy new accessories. The Le Chateau near where I work has an entire (four-sided) rack of accessories on sale! Reduced prices start at $1.99 and go to $19.99. Sale items include rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Styles include classic, art deco, colourful and sparkly. If you’re into butterfly motifs they have butterfly earrings in black or white with matching necklaces; gold lariats with butterflies on the ends; a silver filigree butterfly on a rhinestone accented chain and for something a little different in the “bug family” a gold dragonfly necklace. Some locations have more sale items then others so check out a few stores and see what great deals you can scoop up. And make sure to dig to the back of each row as sale items have a tendency to become disorganized and you may stumble across a fabulous buried gem.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Stock Up!

Proctor and Gamble (P&G) are having a warehouse sale from May 7th - May 25th at a new location - the International Centre in Mississauga. You'll find P&G health, beauty, homecare, laundry and baby care products up to 75% off. You will also find Black & Decker power tools up to 70% off; Cambridge Towels at great prices; men and women's fine fragrances up to 80% off (Elizabeth Arden, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, Versace, etc); and the R.W. Kids Supersale will also be taking place with up to 65% off such brand names as Levi's, absorba, Kushies and OshKosh. Parking and admission are free. All forms of payment accepted. Arrive early as the line-up to get in is usally quite long.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am - 8pm; Sat 10am - 6pm; Sun 11am - 5pm.
6900 Airport Rd, Hall #3, Mississauga ON

http://www.internationalcentre.com/

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

The Countdown Is On






Friday, April 11, 2008

Sale on Now

Sears is having a big sale right now. Discounts offered on lots of merchandise in all departments. My purchases yesterday were limited to intimate apparel but I did have to pass through a few departments to get there and noticed sale signs everywhere. I picked up a couple of Vogue sports bras on sale for 55% off the regular price (just started pole dancing class twice a week on top of the two Abs, Butt and Thigh Blast classes I take already so extra sports bras helps cut down on doing extra laundry) and Jockey items are buy 2 get 1 free - they've come out with some great colours and prints for their cotton undies.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Do I See a Trend?

Shoe lovers rejoice! Petite Feet is holding a sample sale of shoes, sandals and handbags. You will find size 6 samples (good god! that’s a sample size for women’s shoes these days?! No wonder us size 10 wides can’t find decent shoes!). The sale is for three days only – April 11th to April 13th. Sign up at Petite Feet and become a VIP member and get to shop a day earlier than everyone else on VIP DAY Thursday, April 10 from 10am-9pm. Some of the brand names they’ll have on hand are BCBGirls, Jessica Simpson, Franco Sarto, Etienne Aigner, Via Spiga, Dr. Scholl’s, Naturalizer, Vagabond, Zigi, LifeStride and A. Marinelli.
Hours: Friday 10am-9pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
International Centre – Hall 4, 6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga ON, 416-998-7463
Free Parking; CASH ONLY

Monday, April 7, 2008

It Was Worth It!

If you didn’t make it to LifeFest, here’s what you missed. Samples from Nivea, Cetaphil, John Frieda, Goat’s Milk, Softlips, Off Skintastic, Twinnings, Schick, Dare, Dr. Scholl’s, Larabar, Tylenol, Nativa™Organics, Royal, Orgnx by LaCoupe, Garnier Fructis, Mars, Dove Chocolate, SoftSoap, and those are just the ones I remember off the top of my head. There were also lots of food and beverage samples to try right there and then. Coupons galore! And everyone working at the booths were friendly, generous and happy to answer questions you had about their products and interested in the feedback you gave them. The only thing they could do to improve the experience can be summed up in two words – coat check (they need to provide one).

Mark Your Calendars NOW

As the days grow warmer, ones thoughts turn to Christmas shopping, or at least for those super-organized people who are always done their shopping by the end of September. Here’s something to help you 'other' people get a jump-start on your holiday shopping. MIKO Toy Warehouse is having their first ever mid-year sale from May 24 – June 8, 2008. Brand names include Fisher Price, Lego, Mega Blocks, Mattel, Playschool, Barbie and Tonka. If you do go to the MIKO sale and buy holiday gifts, just remember where you hid/stored them come December.
Hours: Sat – Tues 10am to 5pm; Friday 10am – 8pm.
Two Locations: 77 Fima Crescent, Etobicoke ON (QEW 7 Highway 27) 416-532-1114 & 60 East Beaver Creek Rd, Richmond Hill ON 905-771-8714.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Health & Beauty Warehouse Sale

You will find health and beauty items up to 75% off. Some of the brand names to choose from include Dove, Vaseline, Sunsilk, Axe, Degree, Sunlight and Vim. Prices are in effect until April 13th.
Hours: Mon - Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm
Sale presented by Brands Depot and Brands Gone Wild
Two locations: 440 Passmore Ave, Scarborough (across from Centre Ice Sports) and 9325 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill

Friday, March 28, 2008

Skechers Shoe Clearance

Love Skechers, hate the $70 price tag. They're having a big clearance sale next week. Just wish it wasn't in Mississauga.

Women's, Men's, and Children's sizes available. Apparently they make both casual and dress shoes for women!
Sale starts Tuesday, April 1 and runs until Sunday, April 6th.
Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11am til 8pm; Sat.-Sun. 10am til 4pm
1590 Matheson Blvd. Unit 12, Mississauga ON L4W1J1
Telephone: 905 - 629 – 1500


Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Bye Bye YZZA

I was terribly disappointed to find out this weekend that YZZA at Scarborough Town Centre is closing on April 17th. They are offering 30% off selected merchandise right now, so make sure to check out the store closer to the closing date to see if they offer further reductions or make everything in the store 30% off. It's a great opportunity to stock up on blouses, tops and sweaters for spring.

Camp Ten Oaks Fundraiser

NYMPH*MANIA II - a benefit for Camp Ten Oaks (camptenoaks.org)SAT, MAR 22, 2008@ GOODHANDY'S (120 Church St, south of Richmond)7pm doors, 8pm showHosted by sassy "slacker-next-door" DAWN WHITWELLAnd featuring: The delicious Cinnamon Hearts Burlesque troupe!Cancan darlings THE SAUCY TARTS! Drag duo AIDAN & JUSTIN ZAAS!Nashville sensation TUCKER FINN! ... and more!PLUS get some bang for your buck with our BURLYQ BALLOON BUST!$25 in advance/$30 at the doors(available at XTRA, 491 Church St, Toronto ON)

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Fun and Freebies

If you're in Toronto looking for something to do the first weekend in April, check out LifeFest at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Presented by Shoppers Drug Mart, this annual three day event offers lots of fun and interesting health, beauty and fitness things for the ladies. There are speakers and demos throughout the weekend as well as aisles of booths filled with new, improved or popular products. Last year my friend and I ended up with a bagfull of free samples (shampoo, body wash, razors, deodorant, foot cream, etc.) as well as getting to enjoy free food samples (yogurt, crackers, tea, juice).
The event runs from April 4-6th. Tickets are $15 each or two for $25 at
Shoppers Drug Mart or can be purchased at the event for $20 each.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Celebrate Spring

According to the calendar, this Thursday is to be the first day of Spring. I'm pretty sure when I checked the weather it was forecasting snow flurries for that day (I love snow). For those of you who need to put a little Spring in your day may I suggest buying yourself some flowers? Tulips are available now in all colours and types and if looked after well, will last a good 7-10 days.
On Avenue Road, just south of Davenport you will find no less than four flower shops bursting with blooms. They're open seven days a week usually from 8am - 8pm. The flowers are fresh and affordable. You can pop in and out of each store comparing prices and selection and buy from one place or a little from all four of them (I seem to gravitate towards Jong Young Flower Market). If you need flowers to take with you to a dinner party and are overwhelmed by all the choices, just ask the friendly staff to help you out and in seconds they will whip together an amazing bouquet.
Jong Young Flower Market, Yang's Flower Market, Grower's Flower Market, Kay and Young Florist - Avenue Road, Toronto ON

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Purses!

Checked out the purse sale section in the Bay this week. Quite a few of them caught my eye but most of them had really heavy hardware on them (Kathy van Zeeland), so you end up lugging around a five pound purse once you put all of your belongings into it. Sale prices ranged from $17.99 to $104.99. They had lots of styles, colours and brands to choose from. The burgundy patent clutch from Cabrelli & Co was a steal at $19.99; my eye kept going back to the purple satin clutch by Nine West; the little straw bags ($17.99) from Liz Claiborne would be perfect for spring; the bright coloured totes were big enough to hold workout wear but not so large that you’d feel like you were hauling around carry-on luggage. Some of the names to choose from – XOXO, Murval, Fossil, Bianca Nygard, Tignanello and Hilary Radley.
Selections will vary from store to store. Right now you can get 25% off regular priced bags

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Find the Perfect Prom Dress

Fashion Crimes has a Prom Registry so you can make sure you’ll be the only one wearing your dress at your school. Stop in during March Break and get first dibs on their new Prom collection and take advantage of their sale on Prom and Graduation dresses starting at $20! This is the place to go for unique and unusual dresses.
322 ½ Queen St West, Toronto 416-592-9001 for hours of operation

I'm Surprised

While at the Eaton Centre checking out where the new M∙A∙C store will be, I noticed that Addition Elle had closed down. A Hallmark Gold Crown store will take its place and open some time in April. There is a large, two-story Addition Elle just down the street, but a lot of people probably found the Eaton Centre location more convenient when shopping on their lunch hour.

New MAC

Thanks to Carrie for giving me the heads up on this many, many weeks ago. This weekend I finally dragged my butt downtown to check it out. Very soon you won’t have to hike to the other end of the Eaton Centre to go into the Bay to get your M∙A∙C fix. In May, not sure when, a free-standing M∙A∙C store will open on the first floor of the Toronto Eaton Centre right near the fountain. The ‘boutique’ stores usually carry the M∙A∙C PRO line as well as the ‘regular’ line you see at all the counters in the Bay. I don’t have a favourite cosmetic - love the lipsticks, glosses, eyeshadows, liners and nail polish – but the one stand out accessory for me are the wipes. They’re the only thing I’ve found that take off my waterproof mascara easily and completely.
Toronto Eaton Centre, 220 Yonge St (Yonge/Dundas)

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Innovative and Unique Packaging

It kind of looks like a silver, mini hand weight, but it’s really a tube of lipstick. The unique, one piece design means no more having to hold the lid and tube in one hand and a compact in the other, while executing a flawless application. No lid also means it can’t come off in your purse and cover everything in a layer of ‘Pink Surprise’. Simply twist the bottom of the tube and a little round ‘door’ on the top pops open and up comes the lipstick! The little door is very shiny and doubles as a mirror so after applying, you can make sure you stayed inside the lines. Even better, this isn’t part of a high-end cosmetic line – it’s part of the new, limited edition spring line from Quo (Shoppers Drugmart’s own cosmetic line). Funny enough, it's called Quo Flip Stick and is featured in the newest issue of Glow magazine. You can choose from six different shades - I bought the orange one, and right now the lipstick is on sale for $13.50 (regularly $17.99).

Handy Hairband

Goody makes all types of pretty hair accessories. They also have a few that aren’t so pretty, but are very practical. Their Stayput line of no-slip, wide headbands are great for keeping long or short hair out of your face and off your neck. The elastic headbands have ‘rubber treads’ on them that help grip your hair so they don’t fall out while doing downward dog in yoga class or donkey kicks in Abs, Butt and Thigh Blast class. Bonus – they are large enough to go around even the biggest head. You get two for $7.99 but colour selection is limited to black/gray or black/red. There are narrower, kid-size ones available in funner colours, but they won’t fit large heads or full manes. Available anywhere Goody is sold.

A Night of Culture and Laughs

Toronto Irish Players present The Muesli Belt. This play takes place in a Dublin pub and is about the changing face of the inner city and how those changes impact the lives of the characters we meet in the play. Written by Jimmy Murphy. Directed by Barbara Taylor.
The play can be seen at the Alumnae Theatre (70 Berkley St, Toronto) and runs from February 27th – March 1st and March 5th – March 8th. Tickets are $15 and $18 dollars. They are offering ‘2 for 1 preview performance’ on Feb. 27th and a special gala performance on Feb. 28th.
http://www.torontoirishplayers.org for tickets and further info or call 416-440-2888

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Great Event, Great Cause

Project Georgian Warmth -Wine & Food PairingFundraising Reception will take place on Thursday, February 21st in The Great Hall, at Hart House, University of Toronto from 7-11pm. It will include an assortment of unique & interesting wines selected for tasting, expertly paired with hors d’ouevres as well as a Silent Auction. Tickets $70 Project Georgian Warmth was established in 2005 by three mothers who adopted children from the Republic of Georgia. All funds are used to provide medicine, medical supplies, equipment, tests and treatments, as well as necessary food and diapers for orphaned and abandoned children in Georgia. For more information & to purchase tickets go to www.projectgeorgianwarmth.ca

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Spring Has Sprung!

Well, in the clothing stores it has. Almost everyone is offering further markdowns on fall/winter merchandise to make room for all the new spring arrivals. Wiarton Willy says early spring, Punxsutawney Phil says six weeks more of winter, Shubnedacadie Sam says early spring. Isn’t six more weeks of winter and early spring the same thing?!
So depending on which groundhog you believe, take advantage of the further markdowns or start scoping out great items for spring that will be on sale soon, because the summer stuff will be out in two months! Trust me.

Bitter Sweet – 20% off earrings, buy 1 get 1 free on selected rings, 50% off selected satin clutches, baskets full of assorted brooches/necklaces/earrings are 3 items for $10.

Laura, Laura Plus, Laura Petite – up to 70% off end of (winter) season items.

Addition Elle – a further 50% off already reduced prices, selected jewellery buy 1 get the 2nd for half price.

Reitmans – end of season items are priced at $29.99 or less. They have also already marked down some of their early spring arrivals.

LaSenza – Canadian company now owned by Victoria’s Secret. Was hoping this would be a good thing but haven’t been impressed so far. They do carry the VS Beauty Rush line and lotions, washes and body mists are 2 for $18 if you’re into glitter and sweet smelling body products. The Victoria’s Secret Garden line is also available if you prefer no sparkle or sweet smell and body products are 5 for $30 right now. I have to admit I did love the Beauty Rush cosmetics 2 for $10 – glittery eyeshadows available in beautiful colours and bright lip glosses. Let’s hope they start to carry the VC Very Sexy Line too.

Fairweather – lightweight v-neck sweaters $19.99, lace trim camisoles 2/$20, Mikk Couture hoodies and pants (great for lounging or yoga) 2/$30, winter bomber jackets from $30 and jackets with zip-out linings or sleeves for $50, quilted vests $20, hoodies with faux-fur lined hoods $19.99; My absolute favourite items – sequined tanks tops 2/$30 available in eight colours. These would look good now with black pants and a little cardigan. In summer they would be spectacular with jeans and metallic sandals!

Suzy Shier – end of season camisoles, tank tops, t-shirts, tops, blouses, skirts, pants, sweaters and jackets priced from $6.98 to $29.98.

Cleo – an additional 25% off already reduced prices.

Ricki’s – items priced at $19.99 or less; lots of tank tops and camisoles to choose from, the stand-out item for me was the kimono sleeved satin tops.

Town Shoes – up to 70% and as part of a Valentine’s Day promotion you “pick a heart” and receive an additional 10%-20% off.

Cotton Ginny – up to 70% off end of season merchandise.

Spring Shoes – 50% percent off selected items.

Xcetera – 50% off everything in store – bags, jewellery, belts, etc.

YZZA – 20% off already reduced prices

I don’t quite understand why so many stores stocked tanks tops and camisoles for fall/winter, but bad buying on their part means spending less money on our part stocking up for summer. Why pay $19.99 for a tank top when you can get one for as little as $7.99?

Friday, February 1, 2008

Great Hair, Better Price

I only get my hair cut about twice a year, and I travel to the other side of the city to my “regular” salon because they’re affordable and do a good job. This has become tiresome so I heeded the advice of many friends and acquaintances and made an appointment at the Aveda Institute & Academy (located at King & Jarvis). From the beginning I decided it was a good choice as you have to call at least two weeks in advance if you want to get an appointment on a preferred day or time.
Jade was my stylist and my appointment began with her studying my hair type, face shape and asking me what I do style-wise with my hair now. I’d brought a few photos of the hair cut I was hoping for and after looking them over, she took them to her “educator” (the person who supervises the students while they work) and he came over to participate in the consultation. He asked me what I liked about the hair cut and suggested a few changes he would do, taking into consideration my face shape.
Jade then had me choose a scented oil to be used for the neck and head massage given to all clients before having their hair washed. I picked the peppermint oil which gave me visions of chocolate mint cookies while having the most enjoyable neck and scalp massage.
I won’t bore you with the details of the actual washing/cutting/blow drying but I will let you know that it all turned out wonderfully and there were no tears shed (I did have a good 5 inches cut off). I left Aveda with stick straight hair that was as shiny as glass thanks to Jade’s expertise with a blow dryer, straightening iron and Aveda’s Hang Straight straightening lotion.
A hair cut done by an academy student is $30, advance graduate $40 and academy educator services are $55 and up. There is also a level before academy students (forget the name) that charges $16 for a hair cut.
Services are offered at the institutes in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary. Log onto their website for more details, locations and contact information.
And if you visit the academy in Toronto, definitely ask for Jade.
www.aveda-academysalon.ca

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

It Makes Sense

I stumbled across the best organization invention ever. It’s so basic and simple I’m surprised these things aren’t everywhere – Adjustable Purse Racks! Made by a company called Jokari and distributed under the HomeSense Innovative Organization line, you can purchase this handy item at HomeSense for $9.99.
It consists of two long straps with 8 adjustable hooks on each one. You can anchor the straps to the top and bottom of a door, or hook them on a wall (all hardware is provided). I put mine up as soon as I got home and love the fact I can now see all my purses/handbags, making it much easier to switch purses according to the season, occasion or my mood. THE best $10 I’ve spent in a while.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

IQ Living

IQ Living is a great kitchen wares and more store on the Danforth. You could find items for the kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, as well as kids items and gift ideas. You’ll find things like salad spinners, utensils, kitchen gadgets, mini dish racks, children’s aprons, towel racks, shower curtains, drawer and closet organizers and bar accessories.
Notable name brands: See Fred ice kabob trays; Kitchen Zone Silicone ice cube trays in cubes or assorted shapes (perfect to use for Jello and chocolate moulds); Cuisinart brick ovens, Maxwell Williams Designer Homewares white dishes; Ritzenhoff champagne flutes, beer steins, mugs and piggybanks; Neatnix Jewellery Stax (my new favourite item); Lug bags; Elle lunch bags; Mini Maxi rucksacks, travel bags and shoppers; Wildly Delicious Fine Foods; The Cocoa Room sunflower seeds (milk chocolate dipped sunflower seeds coated in a colourful candy shell, these make a great hostess gift).

542 Danforth Ave, Toronto ON

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Gerrard Square

I know, I know. Right now you're probably laughing or cringing but that just means you haven't visited Gerrard Square in quite a while. It's come a long way since my first visit there to check out the Sear's outlet store (long gone). You would barely recognize it now. The first change you'll notice is the McDonald's is gone. Well, not gone, just moved to a different area of the parking lot and a lot more accessible. You no longer will have to climb a large set of slippery stairs to get your burger fix.
They have recently renovated the front entrance of the mall, making it look more welcoming as well as wheelchair accessible and the renovations to the interior have made it brighter and cleaner. The Zellers is still a big disappointment - small, crowded, messy - but the other stores are sure to delight.
Some of the stores to check out: Payless, Footlocker, Staples, Home Depot, Ardene, Siblings, Hallmark, Smart Set (up to 80% off winter merchandise), Fairweather (up to 80% off outerwear), International Clothier, Winners (additional mark downs on already reduced items), La Senza (selected bras on sale for $8.50), Urban Planet, Jumbo Video and coming soon Benix.
1000 Gerrard St E, Toronto (Pape & Gerrard)

Monday, January 21, 2008

Beyond the Border

Bed Bath and Beyond has finally moved north of the US border and landed in Richmond Hill. The store opened back on December 7th.
If you're in the area, check it out. I still haven't found out if they're TTC accessible, but if I do, I'll let you know.
225 High Tech Rd, Bayview Glen Shopping Centre, Richmond Hill (north of Hwy 407)
905-762-1233

Monday, January 7, 2008

January Sales

I love the fact that these days Boxing Day Sales are more like Boxing Week Sales and then they just blend right into January sales. Sooner or later we'll start seeing spring clothing in the stores, so retailers need to get rid of all that "old" fall and winter stock. Lucky for us!

Cotty Ginny is offering an additional 50% they're already reduced prices. Choose from long-sleeved tees, vests, hooded sweaters, pants, jackets, pajamas, hoodies or infants clothing (at select locations). CG carries pants in regular, petite, plus and petite plus sizes so now is a great time to stock up!

Costa Blanca X - I was able to pick up two pairs of metallic flats, in size 11 no less, for just under $24! I'm not sure if this sale is still on (70% off shoes) but they also had their other items like jewellery and handbags on sale. They have great evening bags and clutches marked down to $19.99.

Addition Elle is offering an additional 50% off their already reduced prices.

Reitman's is now offer 50% off their already reduced prices. I picked up a couple of tops for $9.99 each! Be sure to check out their new arrivals for spring (not on sale). Lots of bright colours and flowing fabrics.