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.

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

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)

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

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.