The Preppy Princess

Preppy Sales & Savings for the Weekend

PreppyPrincess.com — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 22:47:24 +0000

Hello-Hello, and gobble-gobble!

Here is an updated list of markdowns, discounts and promotional offerings for your consideration. Don’t forget that many retailers are also planning special pricing/online doorbusters/etc. for Cyber Monday.

Talbot’s is offering 20% off purchases and $5 shipping through midnight the 29th. Use promo code 020556520 online to receive the discount.

LL Bean: 20% off all sweaters + a $10 gift card with any $25 purchase; the sweater discount end ends at midnight Monday but the gift card offer runs through 12/24.

Lacoste is offering 30% off all merchandise ending Monday night (the 30th); use promo code THANKS09 at checkout to receive the discount.

Polo Ralph Lauren: Is offering 25% off online and in stores through 12/7/09; use promo code HOL2009.

Rugby is doing the same as its parent company (Polo Ralph Lauren), 25% off online and in stores through 12/7/09; use promo code HOL2009.

Tory Burch is doing a gift with purchase, the limited edition Cheetah Print Tote seen below, with purchases of $100 and more while supplies last. Shoppers spending more than $300 will receive 30% off their purchase through December 22nd. If purchasing online use promo code TURKEY30.

Courtesy Tory Burch

Bobby Jones is taking 30% off Fall merchandise and also has a good sale section online with discounts up to 70% off original retail prices.

Banana Republic has a variety of offers, including an excellent in-store bargain: cashmere sweaters are ‘Buy One Get One Free’, although that may end tonight (Friday). Online only BR offers 30% off all “sweaters, outerwear and more” through the 29th.

Banana Republic Outlets: 50% Off the entire store.

Banana Republic Outlet Stores

We don’t know if a coupon is required to enjoy the 50% discount, but just in case, click here to print one out for this BR Outlet stores deal.

Kate Spade is offering Facebook fans 20% off any one regular-priced item through the 29th. Print out the coupon below, or head to the Kate Spade Facebook page and print it out; online shoppers seeking the same discount can use promo code WALLPOST at checkout.

Brooks Brothers: Friday & Saturday 7am – Noon receive an additional 15% off your entire purchase; receive an additional 5% when using your MasterCard or your Brooks Brothers Platinum MasterCard. This offer also applies online through Saturday night the 28th.

Brooks Brothers Factory Stores: 40 percent off all items until Sunday, and an extra 10 percent off of on Saturday until noon.

Ann Taylor: Take 40% off a single regular-priced item online, use promo code SAVE40 through

Ann Taylor Loft: Take an additional 50% off your entire purchase, with some exclusions through Saturday night.

Coach Factory Outlets: Take an additional 20% off prices at Coach Factory stores; the coupon must be printed and brought into the store for the discount to be applied.

Tommy Hilfiger Outlet Stores: 40% off the entire store all day on Black Friday and additional discounts for specific days; to download coupons providing these markdowns, click here.

The Gap: Already underway and online-only, 50% off all regularly-priced Men’s & Women’s Sweaters, Kids & Baby Cozy Fleece styles.

Saks 5th Avenue: Up to 60% off original prices on selections for her & him, various additional offers too lengthy to list; also free shipping for any online order, use promo code HOLIDAY9, offer valid through midnight Monday night (the 30th)

Neiman Marcus: The Women’s Apparel Sale is already underway with up to 40% off original prices; there is also free shipping on any online orders until midnight 11/30/09, use promo code NMNOV at checkout.

Neiman Marcus Last Call: Shoppers using their Neiman’s card will receive an additional 25% off, ends 12/1; select stores are open midnight-8am as well, click here for details.

B arneys: their sale is already underway online with up to 40% off on select merchandise.

Bergdorf Goodman: free shipping with any online order, use promo code SHOPBG at checkout.

At Bloomies:

Nordstrom continues its Sale, and offers complimentary shipping on orders of $100 and more; use promo code HOLIDAY09

Henri Bendel continues its Thanksgiving sale with savings of 20% to 50%, ending 11/28.

We apologize for any stores and/or sites that may have been missed. Happy Hunting! We will see you back here on Monday, and hopefully over at our big event: the Preppy Princess Pink & Green Monday sale, 24 hours of 20% off everything.

Posted in preppy, Preppy clothing & brands, Preppy Fashion, Sales & Savings

Gobble-Gobble

PreppyPrincess.com — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:37:11 +0000

It’s different things…

PHOTO: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

In different places…

North of Kabul, Afghanistan

Happy smiles…

Aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis

On happy faces…

Philadelphia's Parade

We hope yours is warm and wonderful.

Posted in preppy

The List: a Preppy Black Friday

PreppyPrincess.com — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:13:26 +0000

Hello-Hello and Gobble-Gobble!

For those thinking about an excursion (there’s a euphemism!) of a retail kind in the next several days, we offer our list of Sales and Savings this Thanksgiving weekend. We may update it once again before the weekend concludes, but are more likely to revel in the company of family and preparations for our Pink & Green Monday!

That’s right, 20% off everything at The Princess for one day only, complete with our free gift wrapping! Use promo code PGM at checkout to receive your discount on all of our preppy goodies!

Here is information on other preptastic retailers; well, mostly preptastic. As always, check with your local store, shopping center or outlet mall for specific hours and details.

J. Crew: Already underway online, take an additional 20% off merchandise only, use promo code EXTRA20 at checkout.

J. Crew Outlet stores: before 8am Friday morning take an additional 40% off Clearance merchandise, other weekend discounts at Crew outlets include 30– 50% off select holiday styles & 30–40% off select Crewcuts holiday styles.

Lacoste: Already underway online, 30% off all merchandise, use promo code THANKS09 at checkout to receive the discount; ends 11/30/09.

Lilly Pulitzer: On Friday only spend $500 and receive a limited edition Resort Tote like the one seen below (a $200 value); gift wrapping is also complimentary all day on Friday.

Courtesy Lilly Pulitzer

Polo Ralph Lauren: Already underway, 25% Off, use promo code HOL2009, ends 12/7/09

Ralph Lauren Factory Stores: 20% discount on purchases of $150+ after midnight Thanksgiving night/Friday morning until 10am.

Brooks Brothers Factory Stores: 40 percent off all items until Sunday, and an extra 10 percent off of this Friday and Saturday until noon.

Banana Republic: We have heard but have not confirmed that on Friday only cashmere sweaters will be Buy One, Get One free

Banana Republic Outlets: 40% Off Any Purchase.

Ann Taylor: “Style Steals” on various items now through Sunday.

Ann Taylor Loft: “Style Steals” on various items now through Sunday.

Tommy Hilfiger Outlet Stores: 40% off the entire store all day on Black Friday and additional discounts for specific days; to download coupons providing these markdowns, click here.

The Gap: Already underway and online-only, 50% off all regularly-priced Men’s & Women’s Sweaters, Kids & Baby Cozy Fleece styles.

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Here is what we can share on the more standard department stores, offered with an apology for the more East Coast-centric emphasis:

Saks 5th Avenue: Starts online Thursday and at 8am Friday in stores, up to 60% off original prices on selections for her & him, various additional offers too lengthy to list; also free shipping for any online order, use promo code HOLIDAY9, offer valid through midnight Monday night (the 30th)

Neiman Marcus: The Women’s Apparel Sale is already underway with up to 40% off original prices; there is also free shipping on any online orders until midnight 11/3/09, use promo code NMNOV at checkout.

Neiman Marcus Last Call: Shoppers using their Neiman’s card will receive an additional 25% off, ends 12/1; select stores are open midnight-8am as well, click here for details.

B arneys: their sale is already underway online with up to 40% off on select merchandise.

Bergdorf Goodman: free shipping with any online order, use promo code SHOPBG at checkout.

For more information on special sales, promotions and the like, here are a few general interest sites that may be of assistance:

With that, farewell until next time, and may everyone enjoy a simply splendid Thanksgiving!

Gobble-Gobble.

Posted in preppy, Preppy clothing & brands, Preppy Fashion, preppy lifestyle, preppy stationery, preppy tote, Sales & Savings

Meet the Crillon Debs, More Preppish Black Friday Updates

PreppyPrincess.com — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:23:32 +0000

Hello-Hello and greetings from a rather frenzied Prepatorium!

We jump right in today with a look at some of the young ladies making their debut this weekend at the Bal Crillon in Paris, always a fascinating event filled with pretty people and stunning party frocks. (Previous participants include Lauren Bush, Scout Willis, Victoria and Vanessa Traina, and Lily Collins.)

This year’s group includes Francesca Eastwood, daughter of Clint Eastwood, seen on the right in the photo below; younger sister Morgan is on the left.

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty

Also entering society, Lady Kitty Spencer, seen below on the cover of Tatler, (she was named the magazine’s ‘Girl of the Year’). The young Lady is the daughter of Earl Spencer, Princess Diana’s brother.

Seen in a more casual photo, this debutante will be wearing British couturier Bruce Oldfield, a favorite designer of Princess Diana’s.

Frederic Nebinger/ABACAPRESS.COM

Also making her official entry into society, Autumn Whitaker, daughter of Forest Whitaker and actress/model Keisha Whitaker.

Christophe Guibbaud/ABACAPRESS.COM

Today’s story in WWD about the Bal notes that Miss Whitaker will be wearing Jason Wu and shares a bit more on her escort:

“Friend William Bellingham, who can trace his ancestry back to Sir Anthony of Bellingham, 8th Baronet of Castlebellingham.”

A young lady who happens to be a delightful blogger is also part of this year’s class, Jane Aldridge.

Frederic Nebinger/ABACAPRESS.COM

Miss Aldridge writes the Sea of Shoes blog and has also designed two capsule shoe collections for Urban Outfitters. We are guessing the teen is probably more concerned about her hair than she is about shoes at this time; here is part of Saturday’s post from her blog:

Courtesy Sea of Shoes

Miss Aldridge will be wearing Chanel Haute Couture. We can only hope the poor child’s hair turns out as she hopes.

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The holiday season increases the amount of merchandise described as ‘preppy’, with most merchandise labeled this way resembling nothing most readers would own, but it is that time of year. We were pleasantly surprised when perusing the Prepster gift guide at PlazaToo suggesting this Shearwater Boot from Sperry.

On the flip side of the coin, a new boot debuting this Friday, created jointly by Ralph Lauren and Ronnie Fieg.

PHOTO: Pj Monte via High Snobiety

The new Ranger “Cookie” boot will only be available at hip shoe emporium David Z and its online site. Clearly not for us, but the David Z site does have some fabulous markdowns on footwear for those in the mood for a little harmless shoe surfing. (Ahem.)

We move to another Ralph Lauren-related item, one of today’s updates to our Black Friday listings. The Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Outlet Stores offer a 20% discount on purchases of $150+ after midnight Thanksgiving night/Friday morning.

Courtesy Polo Ralph Lauren

We enjoyed the helpful suggestions included with a portion of the copy detailing this year’s Midnight Madness event, tips on how a “well-planned excursion creates a more enjoyable environment” and remembering the “generous spirit of the season”.

Courtesy Polo Ralph Lauren

Ah, an effort at bringing civility to a rather uncivil occasion, laudable on PLR’s part.

We also have an update on Lacoste; this retailer is not waiting until after Thanksgiving to start its sale.

Lacoste is offering 30% off all merchandise as of now; use promo code THANKS09 at checkout to receive the discount.

Eddie Bauer is promoting its Thanksgiving Weekend sale; like Lacoste’s promotion, the Bauer sale is also in progress. Yesterday’s post offers more Preppish Sales and Savings information.

Finally, we close with a look at our “9 Under $10“.

This was actually supposed to be “10 Gifts Under $10,” but someone here at the Prepatorium is clearly incapable of performing the most rudimentary math functions. (That would be yours truly, most assuredly not The Consort.)

At any rate, our idea was to make a quick and easy list of preptastic gift ideas for Christmas, Hanukkah, whatnot, all of them under $10. Friends who visit us on Polyvore may have already seen this little effort, but we want to blanket the Planet (heh-heh) as part of our ongoing efforts to Protect Your Pocketbook. The Seaside-themed Notecards, Custom Key Fobs, Magnet Packs and everything else you see is fiscally friendly, $10 or less.

With that shameless self-promotion, we say G’Bye until next time, may everyone enjoy a perfectly splendid evening!

Posted in Preppy clothing & brands, Preppy Fashion, Sales & Savings, When Preppy Goes Wrong

Tiffany Says Not in Our Backyard, Next Target Designers Revealed, Black Friday

PreppyPrincess.com — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:07:02 +0000

Hello-Hello and welcome to a Monday!

We begin with a tale about Tiffany; this time it is the story of the luxury retailer’s lawsuit against its landlord in Century City (California). It seems the jeweler is making it ever-so-clear they do not want fast-fashion merchandiser H&M as a neighbor. (As in H&M that just did the wildly popular ‘Jimmy Choo for H&M’ line, described in this post.)

Apparently Tiffany believes having H&M as a neighbor would be just this side of apocalyptic; the LA Times has more:

“H&M is not a luxury or upscale retailer. H&M is at best characterized as a ‘popular-price’ mass merchandise clothing retailer.”

“The location of the H&M store will cause irreparable injury to Tiffany’s business reputation as a luxury retailer, a reputation that Tiffany has enjoyed and worked hard to maintain for more than a century and a half,” the lawsuit said.”

While understanding a brand’s desire to protect its caché, the story points out that in Pasadena the two stores are almost next door to each other. Other stories on the topic wonder about Tiffany’s efforts to embrace the ‘aspirational shopper,’ those coveting upscale brands while also shopping mass retailers like H&M.

Courtesy Tiffany

Many such consumers are precisely the same customers fond of merchandise displaying a retailer’s logo, something Tiffany has marketed strongly the last several years.

It will be interesting to see how this turns out. We do want to note this is not ‘new news,’ as we are wont to say; the original story broke in September and yours truly keeps forgetting to post it.

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A few more retail notes today, including word on the next two accessories designers for Targèt; the Cynthia Vincent for Target collection will launch at Target stores nationwide and at Target.com from April 18, available through through July 1. Below, several styles from Ms. Vincent’s Fall 09 Collection.

Also, headwear from Eugenia Kim will debut next year, it is going to be the first hat launch in Target’s series of limited-time-only accessories. The Eugenia Kim for Target collection debuts April 18, running through June 20. Below, looks from the 2008 Eugenia Kim line.

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There is also news that Forever 21 has launched its love and beauty cosmetic line.

Courtesy Forever 21 via WWD

Everything in the new line is priced at $10 or less; it all appears to be available online.

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Before delving headfirst into our next topic it is time we are honest with our cherished readers; we do not participate in Black Friday. It is really not our cup of tea; additionally, we are always blessed by a visit from The Queen Mother for Thanksgiving, precluding any chance to partake of the mayhem. Such a shame. (Cough-cough.)

We still desire to maintain contributions to the PPP (Pocketbook Protection Program), continuing efforts at providing a list of fiscally friendly locales for the upcoming frenzy.

To be fair, there are far too many special markdowns, discounts and promotions to accurately track; we are including those we believe to be of the most interest to our bloggy friends.

Here we go, beginning with Talbots, already offering 20% off merchandise and free shipping; use offer code 020556520 at checkout to receive the discounts.

Martin & Osa will discount all denim (regularly $89.50 – $120) and cashmere to $59 (regularly priced at $130 – $170).

Brooks Brothers: November 27th and Saturday, November 28th until 12:00 noon each day. Shop Early and receive an additional 15% off your entire purchase; receive an additional 5% when using your MasterCard or your Brooks Brothers Platinum MasterCard

J. Crew Outlet stores will take an additional 40% off Clearance merchandise before 8am Friday morning; clearly one should check with their local factory store for hours
- Other discounts at Crew outlets for the weekend include 30% – 50% off select holiday styles & 30 – 40% off select Crewcuts holiday styles

Tommy Hilfiger Factory Stores: 40% off the entire store all day on Black Friday (the 27th)
- There are additional discounts for specific days, including the Wednesday before Thanksgiving; to download coupons providing these markdowns, click here.

Banana Republic Outlets: 40% Off Any Purchase

Old Navy stores: Open 12 – 7pm on Thanksgiving Day, & 3am – midnight on Black Friday, too many discounts to list

Henri Bendel 8-10am Friday:
- Save 40% on all Cold Weather Knit Hats, Scarves & Gloves
- Save 40% on Bath & Body Collection
- Save 25% on Candle Collections, Home Fragrance, Sweet Treats
- (After 10am these items remain on sale but at 25% off)

continues its Thanksgiving sale with savings of 20% to 50%, ending 11/28.

Lacoste: 30% off everything in the store

We are still seeking verifiable information on the following stores: Ann Taylor & Ann Taylor Loft, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Polo Ralph Lauren & Polo Ralph Lauren Factory stores, Brooks Brothers Factory stores.

NOTE: Please be sure to note if we are citing discounts at regular stores and factory stores or outlets. Be sure to let us know if you have information to share on any preptastic shopping opportunities and we’ll pass it along. If looking for other products, here are some general Black Friday sites:

Savvy shoppers may remember that after all the Black Friday comes Cyber Monday: the day when online retailers offer special deals. That tradition is alive and well here at The Princess, in fact, we’ll have a little surprise for what we’re calling Pink & Green Monday.

Until next time, do let us know if you

Posted in Gossip Girl, Logos, preppy, Preppy clothing & brands, preppy lifestyle, Sales & Savings

Ralph Lauren Returns to Greenwich & Who the New Moon Stars Wore To The Premiere

PreppyPrincess.com — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:39:15 +0000

Hello-Hello & Happy Friday, whoo-hoo!

In the interest of Friday Fun, we will do a lot of photos today, leaning toward what the younger generation calls ‘eye candy’.

We begin with a topic that is off-the-charts in popularity:

Last night many stars from New Moon attended a special screening in the city, including actress Kristin Stewart.

Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for D&G

Ms. Stewart was in a Burberry trench over a Valentino dress. Co-star Robert Pattinson sported Dolce & Gabbana .

PHOTO: Evan Agostini/AP

Taylor Lautner was also in Dolce & Gabbana, a good choice as D&G sponsored the event.

Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for D&G

The film’s stars have been everywhere this week, keeping the morning shows busy.

And making promotional appearances, as Kellan Lutz and Nikki Reed did at the Toys ‘r Us in town, talking up the line of toys tied to the movie.

Andy Kropa/Getty

Last night’s screening was definitely a must for many on the social circuit, including Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick. (Can we say smoldering here?)

PHOTO: Lexie Moreland/WWD

Others from the show were on hand, Taylor Momsen was seen in more clothing and less makeup than usual.

Below left, Jessica Szohr, and on the right, Ivanka Trump.

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Also on the hit parade here at the prepatorium, a return to Greenwich for Ralph Lauren, after an absence of more than ten years. The new Polo Ralph Lauren store opens today.

The new emporium is right on Greenwich Avenue; today’s WWD story has more:

“… no expense appears to have been spared, even in this economy. From marble to moldings, lacquer and custom wallpaper, Lauren, who has a home in nearby Bedford, N.Y., was keen to bring his brand of luxury to the area.”

Courtesy Photo via WWD

Apparel and accessories are on the first floor with the Home Store on the second level.

Courtesy Photo via WWD

Too Many Celebrity Lines? And That Pesky Ralph Lauren Lawsuit

PreppyPrincess.com — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:13:54 +0000

Hello-Hello and greetings from the corner condo here at Princess InterGalactic HQ!

We begin today with a question for our treasured readers: does a celebrity’s association with a brand impact your buying decisions for that brand?

We ask because of the high volume of recent news regarding ’stars’ doing clothing, accessory, and jewelry lines. Such involvement varies wildly, from work on design and creation of a line to merely licensing the use of one’s name and likeness. One of this week’s examples involve Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s jewelry line for Asprey.

Dave Hogan/Getty Images via WWD

Officially debuting this week, the line is called ‘The Protector’. Below, two pieces from the collection.

Courtesy Photo

All pieces in the group showcase a snake motif. Including the sterling baby spoon.

Courtesy photo via WWD

The collection’s arrival comes in tandem with the company’s continued efforts at refining its product line, image and financial performance. While this particular line is most assuredly not our style, we have long admired the Asprey tradition and commitment to quality.

Courtesy photo via WWD

One can’t quibble with how money made through sales of the line will be used, all proceeds are going to the Education Partnership for Children of Conflict; Ms. Jolie co-founded the organization.

Also, word today that Alicia Keys is also diving into the jewelry business, with ‘The Barber’s Daughters’ collection launching Monday.

Courtesy photo via WWD

The designer is seen above with Gisèle Theriault, who cofounded the new line with the talented singer. Below, a piece from the collection.

Courtesy photo via WWD

We don’t generally purchase brands because of a celebrity’s association with a product. In reality we think many preps are disinclined to purchase something if they believe a publicity-seeking star is associated with it, it’s just not done. (And if ever we should be in the hunt for new jewelry pieces, we are more inclined to visit a smaller, independent artist, like Miss Wendy.)

There’s no reason why we elected to delve into this topic, multiple mentions of all these new lines must have triggered the Crankenstein lurking inside. Hhhmmm.

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Moving on, a recent story on the Cityfile site updates the continued Polo Ralph Lauren / US Polo Association spat.

“Since the mid-1980s, Ralph Lauren has been doing his damndest to prevent the U.S. Polo Association from marketing products bearing a horse-and-rider logo. It’s a case that has taken the two sides to court on numerous occasions over the past 25 years, with Lauren suffering a stinging defeat in 2005…”

Photoillustration Courtesy Cityfile

The story explains the latest todo:

“It seem the U.S. Polo Association has decided to branch out into fragrances—and plans to stamp its polo logo on the bottles, naturally—a move that Lauren isn’t all that jazzed about, not surprisingly.”

Below left, the USPA’s logo, and on the right, the Polo Ralph Lauren logo.

As always, we post, you ponder. Indeed.

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We have an update to yesterday’s post regarding the scantily-clad Leighton Meester. Here is what the young actress/singer changed into for her performance:

Albert Michael/startraksphoto

It seems Ms. Meester also added some hair to her look.

There you have it.

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In our ongoing Sales & Savings category, Lands’ End offers the following:

And Tory Burch is also deep discounts right now:

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It would be inappropriate to let the day pass without mentioning a SOTT (Sign Of The Times), the end of an era really: JC Penney has printed their last ‘Big Book’ catalog.

Courtesy JC Penney

We close with one of the cutest accessories we have seen in a long time, the Bow Hair Pin from Kate Spade.

Courtesy Kate Spade

There is also a Bow Ring.

Courtesy Kate Spade

Ms. Spade also offers a solution to the ‘where’s the mistletoe?” dilemma (you know, that dilemma) with this item:

Courtesy Kate Spade

These three items are some of the cutest holiday goodies we have seen yet.

With that, it is g’bye until next time!

Posted in Gossip Girl, Logos, preppy, Preppy clothing & brands, Preppy Fashion, Sales & Savings, Sign of the Times

Secret Sales at Luxury Retailers & Are Those Gossip Girls Underdressed?

PreppyPrincess.com — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:32:01 +0000

Hello-Hello and welcome to a Wednesday!

We start today with a look at a new phenomenon in online shopping, courtesy of several upscale retailers: the limited-time sale. It generally starts with an email like this:

Courtesy Neiman Marcus

The image above is from a Neimans email we received Monday; it is for the ‘midday dash’ at Neiman Marcus, a two-hour online-only sale. At the appointed time this is what a savvy shopper will see at the Needless Markup Neiman Marcus site; the merchandise changes with each sale.

As described in a July story in the Times:

“Customers learn about the sale mere hours before it begins. This week’s “dash” featured a $697 Burberry handbag, marked down from $1,395. A Carmen Marc Valvo chiffon gown was $575, down from $1,150. And Cole Haan flats were $82, down from $165.”

By no means is Neimans the only luxury retailer trying new ways to prompt consumers to open (re-open?) those pocketbooks. The following screen grab shows what one sees today after the most recent Saks ‘Fashion Fix’ sale ended.

Courtesy Saks Fifth Avenue

The Fashion Fix email explained “Today, the rush begins. Get Yours. Online Only.” and promoted 50% savings on top brands at Saks like Herve Leger, Alice and Olivia, Chloè, and more.

However, not all ’secret sales’ are online only, as the Times story details:

“… the benefits of secret sales — whispered discounts and discreet price negotiations between customers and sales staff in the aisles of upscale chains. A time-worn strategy typically reserved for a store’s best customers, it has become more democratized as the recession drags on and retailers struggle to turn browsers into buyers.”

Nor do the higher-end stores want to tell everyone in the world about their discounted goods.

“The conventional wisdom is that the more consumers who know about a sale, the better for business. But that rule does not necessarily hold in luxury retailing.”

The Journal has also written about the relatively new practice; from their October story on Saks testing this method of selling:

“The realm of online “private sales” so far has been dominated by a small number of retail startups that specialize in the brief sales of discount designer apparel. Their Web sites, including Gilt.com, RueLaLa.com and HauteLook.com, have built a following with virally marketed, daily “members only” sales.”

Below, a recent Rue La La screen shows listings for that day’s ’boutiques’.

AOL’s Daily Finance has more on how the designers’ perceive these sales:

“The sites are popular with designers, who’d rather have their goods sold there than hung in clearance racks at department stores. Designers know their brands are their currency and they are very wary about cheapening them; it’s a constant point of friction between designers and department stores. That’s why you’ll never find Hermès sold off-price.”

Back to Stephanie Rosenbloom’s story in the Times, with more on the psychology behind selling this way:

“Such discreet sales preserve a brand’s veneer of exclusivity and help create a sense of urgency by limiting the time customers have to score a deal. Additionally, secret sales enable stores to discount their merchandise deeply without angering regular customers who may have bought at full price.”

In many respects this doesn’t seem all that different from what many retailers have been doing online for some time, providing early notice to its better customers of special discounts, sale and promotional events. One issue that may be a concern is overexposure; below, another email received here at the Prepatorium from Neimans, this one touting the Last Call sale currently underway.

Courtesy Neiman Marcus

Some customers may start to feel inundated with ’special sale’ notifications and promotions. It’s no secret that we find J. Crew a repeat offender in this category, with the volume of email creating a perception that everything is always ‘on sale’, and if not currently ‘on sale’, it will be ‘on sale’ again very soon.

On the other hand, here at the Princess we have been told we should email customers on our mailing lists more frequently. We only send our newsletters to those requesting them, generally every four to five weeks. We take your email address and privacy very seriously, and while desirous of offering special savings and sharing new merchandise with you, we want those occasions to remain ’special’. (If not a subscriber and interested in receiving either our Preppy Planet or Lilly Pulitzer newsletters, just click here for our home page, and look at the lower right-hand side of the page to sign up.)

BTW, if anyone needs invites to the ‘members only’ sites like those listed above, just email us (thepreppyplanet@gmail dot com) and we’ll get one on its way to you.

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Also on the hit parade today, a follow-up to yesterday’s post showing a rather scantily clad Blake Lively attending the premiere of her new film. It is not unusual for Ms. Lively to be out and about in such apparel (or lack thereof), while Gossip Girl co-star Leighton Meester is generally deemed to be more conservatively clad. Ummm… perhaps not so much any more.

PHOTO: Splash News

Ms. Meester is seen at last night’s American Eagle store opening party, where she performed several songs from her new album.

PHOTO: Steve Eichner/WWD

Whiles these images may look fairly provocative, the actress’s photos in the December issue of GQ are far racier. The one we show below is the only image not carrying the dreaded NSFW caution.

We really were amazed at the other pictures.

Speaking of G2, there is word today that Michelle Trachtenberg is doing a jewelry line with Coach. From the story in today’s WWD:

“Trachtenberg will apply her tough-girl meets sugary-sweet vibe to her first jewelry collection in collaboration with Coach under the accessories giant’s youthful and spirited Poppy line.”

The new line will launch next Spring.

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We close with a special Pretty in Pink, French department store Printemps is all aglow for the holidays.

We loved shopping at this retailer when they entered the US market many years back (ultimately an unsuccessful endeavor), but we have not visited any located on the far side of the pond for years.

On that, may everyone enjoy an evening that is light, bright and filled with fun!

Posted in Gossip Girl, preppy, preppy lifestyle, Sales & Savings

The Nautical Look for Spring 2010

PreppyPrincess.com — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:09:40 +0000

Hello and greetings on a sunny Tuesday!

We have heavy volunteer commitments today, so we are making it One Topic Tuesday! Our subject is a favorite topic here at the Prepatorium, the nautical look. From the trend-spotters over at Women’s Wear Daily:

“Anchors aweigh! Nautical-inspired looks are always springtime favorites, but this season, designers are adding an unexpected twist to the classics, from tops with playful sequin stripes to sexy strapless dresses.”

Included in the story, the Sperry Top Sider and a trench from Nautica. (NOTE: Many of these pieces are not yet available for purchase, we have tried to note those that are currently selling.)

Next, a look from Tommy Hilfiger on the left, and a Navy/Creme Knit Dress from Thread Social. (The entire Spring 2010 Collection is available for purchase now, here is the link.)

Handbags exhibiting nautical traits are always popular here at the Prepatorium. Below left, Nautica’s anchor bag, and the Eric Javits Squishee Mini Shopper is on the right. (Don’t you simply love that name? It just rolls off the tongue!)

The Squishee comes in a fabulous selection of colors:

Also very appealing, the Rebecca Taylor sweater (L) and a Jones New York Signature sweater.

Jones New York Signature is showing a number of similar looks on their site right now for those interested, including the Nautical Stripe Sweater and the Rope Neck Tunic.

Not seen in the WWD story, this cute Condiment Set at Le Boutique Targèt.

And while finding it to be just darling, the Cute-o-meter might be peaking in the red zone with the Nautical Bath Collection at Target.

With that we say g’bye until next time!

Posted in nautical, preppy, Preppy Fashion, preppy lifestyle

Adventures in Argyle, Preppy Sales and Savings

PreppyPrincess.com — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:39:39 +0000

Hello-Hello, greetings for another week!

We have several Sales and Savings to report today; some may be repetitious but we thought they bore a second run, beginning with Brooks Brothers.

Brooks has taken significant markdowns on many items, including several pieces that definitely qualify as Adventures in Argyle.

The Merino Argyle Cardigan is now $117.60 ($168), and on the right we have the Cashmere Argyle cardigan, now $208.60 (originally $298). Both seemed to be available in almost all sizes as of this writing.

The Country Club Mini-Argyle crew sock is now $16 (originally $40) and the Cotton Argyle Anklet now $6 ($15); both are offered in a variety of colorways.

As The Consort has been heard to say: “You can’t go wrong with a good pair of socks from Brooks Brothers.”

Not on sale at Brooks, but definitely worthy of a mention, the St. Jude Collection, including the Brooksie ™ Bear.

Courtesy Brooks Brothers

The retailer is donating $5 from the sale of each bear to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. There are several other items in this collection at Brooks Brothers, all with a portion of sales going to the hospital and research center.

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Also offering a sizable selection of Sale merchandise, Lacoste; the hat originally ($45, now $24.99) and gloves (originally $40, now $27.99) shown below definitely qualify as Pretty in Pink.

Over at Bergdorf, their semi-annual sale is underway.

J. Crew continues their ‘holiday sale‘:

One item of note: Crew is also offering 20% off all orders of $150 or more; use promo code INSIDER at checkout. This is online only and ends Wednesday night (the 18th) at midnight.

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Nautica has a solid selection of discounted merchandise in their online Sale section. We simply adore the Girls Anchor Print Skirt is now $14.99, originally it sold at $30. We also like the Girls Signal Flag polo.

Two things we fell in love with: the Baby Anchor Print Hoodie (now $14.99) and the Baby Dreamer Sweater Coat (now $21.99)

The item that really sent us over the moon? The Infant Plaid Trim Onesie.

If that doesn’t qualify as Prepalicious we don’t know what will; it is off the charts on the Cute-o-meter. (It is also only $9.99.)

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We have an update to the Jimmy Choo for H & M post from Friday: it was bedlam at most H&M stores when the collection went on sale Saturday. In Vancouver shoppers camped outside the store.

Vancouver Sun

From a MarketWatch story:

“…the greater part of both Choo’s ladies’ and men’s collections sold out…. Even in Madrid, the epicenter of one of Europe’s most recession-battered economies, plenty of women and men could be seen toting glossy blue H&M bags Saturday afternoon.”

Below, Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg was among those shopping the H&M on Fifth this weekend.

Rob Loud/Getty Images

Speaking of Gossip Girl, many of Ms. Trachtenberg’s costars were seen at last night’s private screening of ‘The Private Lives of Pippa Lee‘.

Blake Lively was at the screening, along with Keanu Reeves, Julianne Moore, Robin Wright Penn, director Rebecca Miller and Zoe Kazan.

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Many of the actress’s G2 costars were also in attendance, including Chace Crawford.

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

And real-life sweetheart Penn Badgley was on hand as well.

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

The film has a November 27 release date.

Posted in Argyle, Gossip Girl, nautical, Preppy Fashion, preppy lifestyle, Pretty in Pink, Sales & Savings