Granola To Glam: deals

Showing posts with label deals. Show all posts

Burberry Hobo Reveal + The Real Real Review

Try saying "The Real Real Reveal" 3 times fast. ROR...raff out roud!
My friend introduced me to The Real Real a little over 2 months ago when I mentioned being a fan of pre-loved luxury goods. If you can imagine a site like Malleries in a flash sale format like Rue La La...that's pretty much what The Real Real is. They have daily sales of only pre-owned/new luxury clothing and accessories. They gather many items from estate sales and celebrities.
The popular items go pretty quickly, so I was surprised to see this Burberry Hobo about 4 hours into the sale. I closely read the description and reviewed the pictures they provided. The flaws I could live with. The price was a steal. So I decided to make my 1st purchase from The Real Real.
PROS:- Great prices. I haven't done any direct comparisons, but they seem lower than Malleries, Bella Bag, Portero, etc.- Most of the items I've seen have been in Excellent to Near New condition.- Constant rotations of luxury brands.- Shipment arrived overnight. Seems the origin is in SF, which is huge plus!- Descriptions and photos are accurate.- New coupon codes every month for $25 off.
CONS:- My bag was not thoroughly cleaned. I went through about 4 facial wipes to "refresh" the bag.- Many unsold items are repeatedly listed. Which is OK, but I'd rather see new merchandise.
Bottom line, The Real Real is a nice change from the usual pre-owned shopping sites. The prices are great, delivery is prompt, descriptions are accurate, and they have coupon codes! I'm a fan and give The Real Real a thumbs up!

Adding to my Lust List: YSL Arty ring and eBay Lookalikes

I'm updating my Lust List to include this YSL Arty Ring with a Golden Stone. This ring has looked fab on so many bloggers such as From Head to Toe, Wendy's Lookbook, and Really Petite (click links to see the ring).
Since I'm big on mixing metals, I thought this would be the perfect combo- gunmetal with a gold stone. I know what folks love most about the Arty is the pop of color, but this one is really what I'm coveting.
Priced at $250, it's gotta be something I'm super in love with. And at this moment, I'm not absolutely head over heels. A search on eBay will turn up lots of duplicates at a fraction of the price. I'm almost thinking I will buy one of these to take on a test drive- to see if the real thing will suit my taste.

YSL Arty $250

$45 sold by Fashiondiggers

$0.99 starting bid by NoPartyPoopers

$25 by flygrl_1
I know the lookalikes are pretty poor representations of the real thing.
Do you think it's a good idea to buy a cheapy prior to the real deal?A cheapy sure looks great on her and her!

Missoni for Target Christmas Miracle

Were you part of the Missoni for Target craze a few months back? I'm proud to admit I was and was more than disappointed when Target cancelled my orders.
There was a website replenishment recently and luckily I snagged up these two throws. I love 'em.
Some online have said the 2nd run throws are far inferior in quality than the original run. I guess in this case, I would say ignorance is bliss since I wasn't lucky enough to grab a 1st run throw.
They're cuddly and warm, so I'm happy.

Pre-loved Designer Goods

As much as I covet designer goods, I don't think spending loads of hard-earned $ on handbags is very practical. When I do feel deserving of a splurge, these are my go-to sites for pre-loved designer goods. (click the below images to shop) Not only does buying pre-owned clear my conscience, it gives me a sense of satisfaction knowing I took the time to research and find the right bag at the right price.

I recommend Chanel Touch via Malleries

Although I'm mostly certain in their authenticity, always check with the pros at purseforum beforehand. Their "authenticators" are volunteers offering their time to help fashionistas out there- so be patient and polite in your request. Of course, do your research and don't ever be in a "rush" to buy a designer bag. You may pay for it later.
I've been lucky to find great deals on ebay. Ebay will take the most effort to weed through the "junk" so make sure to post your authenticity request on PurseForum at least 3 days before auction close. Nothing is more stressful than buying a bag only to question it's authenticity after the fact. Here are my pre-loved goodies I am so happy with!

All except my Mono LV are pre-ownedWhere do you search for your pre-owned designer items?

Target Genuine Leather Boots

It's that time of year!...the time to shop for boots! Here in the Bay Area, we can almost wear boots year round. I'm so impressed with the selection from Target this year. Boots made with genuine leather that don't break the bank...dream come true!
Check these out. Which do you like best? I'm leaning towards the Kasia in camel, but they're sold out in a 7.5 :(

Target Kasia Merona Boots ($70)
Unfortuantely, I don't see this color on their website, but how much do you love the distressed look?

I think Frye may be getting some competition from Target this year. Woo hoo!

LOFT 40% off sale!

Can't wait to grab some new LOFT trouser jeans during this fab 40% off sale! What are you going to get?

Teal & Blue: Who Knew?

J.Crew Skirt, $118

Ok, so this is such an amazing color combo. Too bad IF I were to order this skirt it wouldn't ship until 6/6/11. I've got to replicate this look within my "economically chic" budget. Here's how I would do it.

GET THE LOOK