The Bargainista

Christmas Cards (with family photo!)

2010-11-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

I love sending and receiving Christmas cards with a photo on them. I take my family's picture in October and begin shopping sites for the best deals. I've typically found the best deals to the first week of November, althought this year they didn't blow me away and I've continued to search for online discounts. I always shop around (of course I do!) I always purchase from Shutterfly. They consistently have great promotions, high quality products, and their customer service is amazing (I've bought tons from them, more on that later) This will be the sixth year I've purchased my cards from Shutterfly.

So, without further ado, I'd like to share my top picks this year, although I've not decided which I'm choosing yet.

I think this card is fabulous! I love the black and white photo with traditional Christmas colors over it. It's elegant and simple but has a bit of flair. A black and white photo is great for hiding a multitude of photo sins, shade the background, or give a cohesive look to non-coordinating outfits (teenagers anyone?)

This card is totally adorable! I love the design with the traditional colors. I typically don't choose multi-photo cards but I have a unique I idea year. It's BargainistaTeen is a senior and we did great senior photos last summer. Also we also put BargainistaPooch in the pictures. Since neither of them care to be photographed or tend to be very cooperative I could use each of them in their own space (we do have other cute pics of BargainistaPooch) and a picture of Mr. Bargainista and I in the remaining space. Could be cute!

I looooooove this card too! The family session we had a few weeks ago did yield one good picture. We wore bright colors that coordinate fabulously with this card. A definite possibility!

Anyone who knows me and has ever visited my site knows I love monograms! This card is so fabulous because it has a monogram! Adorable! Plus I could use our family portrait, the senior picture, a picture of the husband and I, a picture of the pooch, and another fun shot of us at a sporting event this year!

In addition to Shutterfly's great 4x8 cards and 5x7 cards, I'm a huge fan of their photo books and have about a dozen from many different occasions. Shutterfly's site is extremely user friendly to make all of their products. If you purchase cards or anything else, link back and let me know what you got!

Disclaimer: Shutterfly gave me 50 free Christmas cards to write this post. The thoughts, opinions, and love for Shutterfly are all my own!

Ebates

2009-06-05T13:20:00.001-07:00

Do many of you use Ebates? It's a great site that gives you money back for your purchases online. Nearly every website you can think of participates. You don't have to do anything but sign up with your email address and be sure to shop thru their site at your favorite retailers. The discounts and cash back on items you are purchasing anyway is fantastic!

Sign up thru my link and get an extra cash back on the spot! Then refer your friends as well. When they sign up the both of you get a little automatic cash back from ebates!

So what are you waiting for? Go! Go Now!

Summer Flops for the whole family

2009-05-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

Our favorite outlet wearhouse had a great shipment of summer flops and we took advantage.

For Me:

Both J. Crew flip flops, one are gold beaded (shown left) and the other pink suede leather ( I could only find a picture in brown but the pink are oh so pretty!). Only $6.99 each.

J. Crew flip flops for Mr. Bargainista too. Only $6.99

For Bargainista Teen: Vans cotton vintage flip flops $6,99, Vans Pasticish flip flops $3.00, and Nike Sandals (ugh I hate these but whatever he likes, right?) $16.99.

BCBG Shoes

2009-05-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

I found the above BCBG shoes in RED which are perfect for a cocktail dress for a party I'm attending. They were at a consignment store and were 70% off. My total price was only $6.90 plus tax.

What a deal! I have dozens of things I can wear them with in addition to the dress. When can you not wear red shoes?

Deals at Target for $4.98 each

2009-04-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

I hit the mother load at Target recently. Over a the past several weeks I've found great deals on items that I'm using daily!

Sleepshirt: $4.98

Mine is pink striped and it just might get a monogram.

Robe: $4.98

I got the navy color shown and it has white polka dots on the inside! So cute! It of course is monogrammed. I definately didn't need another robe but mine are all terrycloth and rather thick and fluffy. This is thinner and in a super soft cotton. I wear it daily!

Hoodie: $4.98

I have the lavendar color shown, and also bought a pink one and white one that are fleece lined. The lavendar is a "springy" type hoodie and is just cotton. They're all the C9 by Champion and I love that brand of work out and casual/lounge clothing. All three have a little pocket built in to hold my ipod. Isn't that clever? You can't see it but it's in the seam above the hand pockets. They're all waiting to be monogrammed. The white one will look oh so ready for the beach with a nice khaki monogram.

Yoga Pants: $4.98

I live in yoga pants and the C9 are my favorite. And believe me, I've tried plenty. These are the perfect fitted and flattering cut and I wear them all the time. This is my third pair of this type. I'm a bit nuts about them. I also bought the C9 brand in a yoga pant that are shiny and spandexy more than cotton. They were (gasp!) $7.98 but look cute with my new pink sneakers and polka dot laces. You know, the important things in life.

Missions Yard Sale

2009-04-20T19:00:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was the giant Missions Yard Sale at a local church where we used to attend. It, of course, was fabulous! I've pulled stock images of the loot we scored because I'm a bit lazy to take pictures and it's mostly been put away or is at the cleaners.

Without further adeiu:

Scout Bag

I've been coveting one of these fine little ditties. The regular price for the large "dean-o" bag is $45. I paid only $6 and it's NEW WITH TAGS! I love the color combo and I'm glad I found it at a sale because I'd have went with the pink and green in the same print. It forced me to branch out and I really enjoy it. I'm going to use this toting items in the trunk of my car and to put smaller reusable shopping bags in for carrying in one trip. It will also be a great pool/beach/lake bag come summer. I could even use it as an overnight or weekend bag.

Ralph Lauren Linen Skirt and it's PINK! So cute for summer. I'm going to wear it with a white shirt and pink kitten heels, or a brown tank top and flip flops. I also have a pink and black printed shirt to match it with black or pink strappy shoes. I think the orignal price is $49-$69. I paid $5. It appears to have never been worn or taken really good care of if it was.

Blue and black The North Face Denali fleece jacket. This jacket is currently retailing for $175 at Nordstrom and a few outdoors stores in town. I paid only $8. That's EIGHT DOLLARS! Whew I feel faint! It was a great find for Bargainista Teen. He loves it and we'll more than get our eight dollars out of it.

Cabela's Fly Tying Kit $2. Yes, two dollars. It retails in the catalog for $80. Mr. Bargainista admits that it may not get used quickly, or at all, but "it's so cool." You better believe I'm sending his bum fly fishing!

Other items include:

-a two piece black suit for Mr. Bargainista. It was $2. TWO DOLLARS! All suits were marked $2. Most were very old and very unstylish but this one was rather nice. If there is one thing Mr. Bargainista doesn't need it's a suit but for $2 we can have an extra black one in the closet. It's currently at the cleaners.

-Striped Polo shirt for Mr. Bargainista. Brand new with tags and was only $1. ONE DOLLAR! Mr . Bargainista has weeded through several polo shirts that have shown great wear so that he always looks his best for work, etc. so this was nearly a necessary purchase. Of course Polo shirts are normally $50-$75 so cha-ching for the $1 and being BRAND NEW WITH TAGS!

-Ann Taylor skirt for me. Oh my it's so cute! It's turquoise with a lime-ish design on it and little beads accenting the design and bottom hem. I'll dress it up and down. It's so flowy and cool for summer. I recall seeing it in The Loft for $59. I paid only $3! It was in fabulous condition with no signs of wear.

-White House Black Market strapless dress. It's way cute! White with a black flower motif and a black band around the empire waist as well as the top trim. It will be great for when I host bunco in June. Retail on these dresses is usually $70-$90 but this was ONLY $5. WOW!

All in all we spent less than $40 at the sale and that includes coffee.

The Bargainista Sale

2009-04-20T14:48:00.000-07:00

(Note: This post is from March 10. I lost the card with all of my pictures of the sale and was dawdling hoping I'd find it. I've not yet but hopefully by posting this it will surely turn up. It's that how Murphy's Law works? Anyway I found stock photos for a few items but I know I can't remember them all. I was banking on the pictures to help me!)

My Ladies League has a large rummage sale every year. By large I mean in a 100,000 warehouse. That's large! I love working the event but I love shopping it even more! Oh the goodies I found!

New in package Stila Lipglosses $4. The were for sure brand new because Stila's are twist up and the product comes out the brush so it's visible when it's been used. So ahem!

Rachel Ray cookbook $2. I love RR cookbooks and I actually didn't have this one.

Philosophy Margarita 3 in 1 wash. I LOVE philosophy products. This was a full 20 oz. container and margarita scent is so refreshing. It clings to my hair pretty well. I can catch little sniffs of it all day.

White Pottery Barn Shelf $6. Only $6 can you believe that? So cute!

Banana Republic Sweater (Bargainista Teens is in brown but exact same style) $5.

Striped Polo (Ralph Lauren) shirts $3. BT got a few of these.

White hemstitch linen napkins $3 for set of six.

Two wrough iron nesting patio tables $10 for both. They match our patio furniture and are great side tables to set a beer or your s'mores goodies.

Two urn style vase planters $1 each.

Loads of Closet Maid shelves $12. We are giving BT a new organizing system in his closet and finding these was pure gold! We have far more than we need so now I'm plotting what other closets may needs a little more of something-something. But Shh...don't tell Mr. B.

Game Set in a cherry wood box $3. It includes two decks of cards, three types of dice, and poker chips. It looks SO elegant and classy. It will be great to set out at our next dinner party for a little game.

Balderdash (game) $1.

Wooden Letters $2 each. These are large custom painted letters. I got a few for the house and a few for gifts.

Clark's Wallaby Shoes for BT. Only $8. They were dirty on the bottom but otherwise no signs of use.

BT also got a few random t-shirts he thougth were "cool" for about $1 each.

I know there were more items but they're currently lost on me. Surely the memory card will turn up now that I've posted. I certainly hope so because I had several other pictures on there I needed as well.

Deals from the Outlet

2009-03-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

I hit a couple of great oulets last week. It was none other than my own personal Mecca(s) of The Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma!

In addtion to everything being outlet priced it was all on sale for an additional discount (30-75%) and I had a 40% off total order coupon.

SCORE!

First Up: Williams Sonoma

Fresh springy pink and green towels

Towels: $8 for four pack

Washclothes: $6 for four pack

Potholders: $4

Oven Mitts (it actually matches potholder above): $4

Apron: $12 (can't wait to monogram this!)

Cuisineart Rice Cooker: $22

Mini muffin pan: $8

In addtion to the above I also got:

Over the sink mesh collander with cutting board side: $9

(It's the neatest thing! It spreads out to stablize over the sink, a cutting board is clipped on half so I can cut and chop, then slide and rinse. HOW did I live without this?)

Lemon Meyer room spray: $2

Lemon Meyer dish detergent: $2/box (4 boxes!)

Hamburger Seasoning: $3

Magic Dust Meat Seasoning $4

Natural PB: $2/jar (4 jars!)

Assortment of wisks and silicone spatulas: $2-$5 (I bought a handful of these)

I THINK that was it.

Next: Pottery Barn

Remember my dishes? I purchased two complete sets and an extra bowl and mug for around $13. They were a super deal! They are clearancing out the selection so I had to strike while I could!

Colby Watchbox and Charging Station: $13 and $18 respectively. These are for Mr. Bargainista. He has the monogrammed colby valet already and these look nice on the dresser. He loves leather.

Toile Panels: $18/ea (2 of these in lavender)

Lavendar polka dot reversible duvet: $22 (twin sized)

Lavender ric rac pillow cases: $8

Matine Toile Bedskirt and Shams: $24 and $25/set of two. Both in Ink Blue.

Varsity backpack in orange: $8

Fairfax lunchbox in pink: $5

And this is the kicker!

Architect sconce wall lamp. Original price: $179. After all of the mark downs I paid (drum roll please......) $9. Nine dollars!

I also helped my friend Reese score a great 9x12 area rug for a bargain. The original price was $1200. She paid only $278! We finangled it into her little sports car and set it all up to see if her husband noticed when he got home.

Safe to say he did! :)

Basketball Goal

2009-03-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

Bargainista Teen needed a basketball goal. We have to have the portable type here because of the way our driveway is made. The normal price is around $300. Mr. Bargainista got to work on craigslist and we brought this home for only $40!

Amazon Gift Card with Magazine Subscription

2009-03-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

Get a $5 or $10 gift certificate to amazon.com for an eligible magazine purchase. Go here to choose your magazine. They have great prices in addtion to the gift certificate. I'm getting Self for me, Smart Money for Mr. Bargainista, and Sports Illustrated for Bargainista Teen.

Ipod Accessories

2009-03-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

I've found great deals the past few months on ipod accessories.

First, silicone cases. I've found two sets of three for only $3. You can often find such goodies at TJ Maxx and Ross.

I found leather ipod cases at Circuit City while it was going out of business. Regular price $15, our price was $2.70. I got a pink for me, black for Mr. Bargainista, and a silver for Bargainista Teen.

Everyone with an ipod needs an FM transmitter converter, that is if you don't have an axillary jack in your car. This was only $7.99 at Rugged Wearhouse. We have one for both cars and will have to get one for Bargainista Teens truck when he starts driving this summer. On second thought....maybe we should keep him with fewer distractions!

The downside of these is you may have to change stations to find a blank frequency on road trips. However it's worth the small hassle to have your ipod tunes. It will be imperative that my next car have an axillary jack. I simply can't have a car without a sunroof and now I've decided I must have an axillary jack too!

I've saved the best for last! I'd been wanting an under cabinet ihome for the kitchen. I dreamt of all the footloose style dancing I could do while baking brownies. It really is the little things in life you know!

Knowing how expensive they are ($150-$200) I didn't bother looking and thought it could be a birthday present eventually (which is um, November). I was aimlessly shopping with a friend for organizations items and inspiration for HER new bathroom. We were checking out the clearance tables and THERE. IT. WAS!

An under cabinet iHome! I didn't get my hopes up for fear that the price would STILL be out of my range.

But oh no my friends.

It was marked down to $50. Fifty dollars!

Oh wait bargainistas....it gets better.

I had a coupon (of course!) for an extra 20% off.

My total was $37.50 plus tax.

WHAT A DEAL! I was so excited. My husband knew how excited I was and immediately installed this fancy pants little item.

I'm not sure why it was marked down but it was brand new in the box with the styrofoam still all taped up. It can fit any size ipod and even has a little connector on the bottom for shuffles. You can connect your ipod then put the little hang down thingy back inside. Isn't that neat? OH OH OH...and it came with a remote--a magnetic remote control so it sticks on the side of my fridge.

Nifty I tell ya!

Dresses

2009-02-28T14:19:00.000-08:00

I found a great sale on dresses at New York and Co.

Regular price was $55. I paid only $10. TEN DOLLARS! I bought a black one and a chocolate brown with a blue and white print on it. They are fantastic with boots, tights, and cardigan in cold weather and peep toed pumps in warm weather.

Ipods

2009-02-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

Go! Go now!

The above link is for the Apple Store for REFURBED ipods! (You can get refurbed Macs too) Refurbed apples come with a full one year warranty, new earbuds, and a new battery. ALL for a great price. Our family is completely nano-ed out.

I have the last generation (third?) and I have for a while (the pretty green one). I do love my ipod. It's much more seemless than an MP3 player....or so I think. Probably because everyone else in my house is all ipod-ed out so it's much easier on me and our itunes library.

The only downfall is they can't be engraved.....if that's what you want. You can take it to be engraved on your own though.

You can get shuffles for only $39. (I think I might need one to clip on my for when I run...you think?).

The latest generation 8G nano for only $129 and the 16G for only $169.

First generation itouch for $159 and second for $199.

Classics for only $209. This surely tempts me! I have an 8G and I've not filled it yet....but when I do I think a classic may be in order. I'd like a 160G. A bit over the top I know but I'd love to have ALL my music on that little device and to be able to keep adding.

Oh apple how I love thee!

The TJ Maxx rack up

2009-02-20T13:35:00.000-08:00

There is NOTHING like hitting the mother load for a teenagers clothes. We found a few GREAT deals at TJ Maxx.

AE Jeans $15.99

AE Polo $9.99

AE Long Sleeved Shirt $6.99

Where have YOU been?

2009-02-19T19:35:00.001-08:00

Well hello there! Where have you been? Oh me? Where have I been? Oh you know, around....

I have an excuse for my absence, not a good excuse, but an excuse none the less.

You see I no longer have an office job. I haven't for some time now, but apparently my best blogging time was on the company and when I'm at home I make a lot less time for the computer. In addition I stay plenty busy running my family as well as my small business. Since I no longer have a corporate salary, shopping has been cut back considerably. Although I find fabulous deals, The Bargainstas are cash shoppers and smart shoppers.

But don't worry you little bargain hunters. I still shop! And I've kept a list of all the good things I've bought and I'll tell you all about them.

Just you wait!

Clinique Bonus Time at Belk

2009-02-12T16:22:00.000-08:00

You know I'm a Clinique girl! I'm thinking I may need to go get me some perfume for this fab giveaway! I'm also a Mary Kay girl and have one of the large compact pro's full! I think it might actually fit in this case and would perfect for quick and easy travelling. Hurry! This offer is good though February 22.

For a purchase of $21.50 you get everything shown here.

Clinique Bonus Time at Belk

2008-08-29T19:36:00.001-07:00

For a purchase of 21.50 this little goody bag can be yours! Gift includes:
Lipstick,
Duo Eyeshadow
Face Wash
Moisturizer
Compact
Mascara

(Believe it or not Bargainistas.....I'm actually passing on this one.)

Brownies

2008-08-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

Brownies were ten for $10 at my Kroger this week. Woohoo! I bought six of them and am wondering why I didn't just go for the ten. Brownies in this house are a staple much like milk and bread.

So where do I keep all these extras since I have no real pantry and my cabinets have to double as that?

In here:

Remember these?

7 Dresses

2008-08-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm leaving for the seaside next month and have been craving a new dress. I checked out Target, TJ Maxx, and Ross. I hit the motherload at Ross with three dresses and thus decided to check out another Ross in town where I found four more dresses. I just grabbed them all and brought them home to try on and contemplate. I loathe trying on dresses at stores and like to see them at home with my shoes and accessories.

Mark this down as a day in history because never, everevereverever, has everything I've just picked up actually fit me. However each of these dresses fit me fabulously. The grand total for all of the dresses was only $75 (for seven dresses!!) so for that price I should keep them all. I mostly only wear dresses in warm weather anyway because they're just so pretty and feminine. Of course that's just not practical or feasible as summer is nearly over and some are only fun dresses and cannot be worn for church or work thus making it less appealing. So I'm going to narrow down the selection to just three, um, or maybe four.

I realize these are crappy pictures taken quickly with my phone but you can kinda see them since I got a shot from both angles. I'll be sure to post the ones I decide on in better pictures. Currently I'm thinking the white with purple flowers, the brown with teal and purple, and the turquoise on the end for sure. But the solid white and bright blue and yellow are big contenders as well. The turquoise in the middle and the bright flowered ones are my least faves.

Cute little bin

2008-08-26T10:12:00.000-07:00

I got this cute little bin at a garage sale last weekend for a mere fifty cents. Can you believe it? Isn't it darling?

I had several ideas for this little container: it would work in two of the three bathrooms with extra toiletires, toilet paper, wash clothes, etc; it would work in the living area of the great room with cute decorative rattan balls or pinecones, perhaps even a candle; it would work in my sewing room to keep incidentals looking tidy; and it could even work in an offiice space for envelopes and such a few small jars inside for pencils, etc.

However after all that thought I eneded up putting it in the kitchen. Seems te kitchen table is a dumping ground. Mail, school papers, correspondence, camera, receipts, tape from packing an item, etc. Now it can all go in this little bin to keep the "pile" small and manageable.

I've warned my boys that when it gets too full I'll start tossing so they'd better not leave anything "important" in there for too long.

Deals at Target

2008-08-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

The cereal gods were smiling on me as I made a quick run to the pharmacy at my local Target. Check this out:

The preschooler in my loves (loves!) Cinnamon Toast Crunch and my boys (and maybe me a little bit) love Lucky Charms. We often by Kroger varieties of these cereals but this is the real mccoy and in a huge double box.

The price?

It's not super clear but that says $2.48. I GOT TWO HUGE BOXES OF TWO BRAND NAME CEREALS FOR ONLY TWO DOLLARS AND FORTY EIGHT CENTS! There were only five left and I bought two of them. I could kick myself for not getting them all, but I suppose I should let this little deal make the day of someone else as it did me.

Then there was this little ditty on an end cap near the pharmacy:

This package includes three venus razors and a small shaving cream. The price?

Four dollars and fifty four cents. Pretty good considering a four pack of the razor cartridges is $9.00. I bought two of these and am currently pondering going to pick up a few more.

Folders

2008-08-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

I've been itching for some of the cute patterned filing folders that are becoming widely mainstream lately. However I'm far to thrifty to pay for them when I have dozens of the file folders at home.

Soooooooooooooooo....I had the great idea to make my own and I had all of the supplies on hand.
Folders: check
Pretty scrapbook paper: check
Decopage: check

Finished Product

This may not be the biggest bargain if you don't already have the items on hand as I did. However it does give you a custom and one of a kind look which is what I'm all about!

Silver Tray/Memo Board

2008-08-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

I found this darling silver tray at an Estate Sale for only fifty cents. It was quite scratched up on the inside but it had great lines. With a little imagination I made it into a memo board using fabric leftover from a duvet I made and a little decopage. I'm going to monogram buttons and put magnets on the bag to hold up the notes, etc.

Before and After

It looks charming on the wall and so elegant and custom made with the matching duvet in the same room.

Converse Sneakers

2008-08-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

I found these darling little sneakers at Target for only $6.24. The original price was $29.99. They're kids converse sneackers but it just so happens I can wear a five and a half in kids! Usually I can wear a six but these are made a bit large. Bargainista Note: a 6 in girls is often an 8 in womens!

PB Baskets

2008-07-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

My kitchen cabinets do not go all the way to the ceiling so I have a shelf like area on top of them. I didn't like it empty so I decided to use it for decorative storage of items I didn't need or use often. However in the end it looked like storage for junk that I don't care about. This bothered me.

I still needed storage for my buffalo china teacups and sacuers, some buffet serving pieces, and extra silver. Pottery Barn came to my resuce with these fabulous lidded baskets. Lidded being the key as it helps protect my goodies from dust.

This is the medium Havana basket. You may also find it under Savanna(h?) in a lighter color.

Thankfully the baskets was more of the look I was going for! That combined with some cute wood bins fit nicely on the long wall of my kitchen. On the shorter walls I have large platters propped up as well as a soup tureen and a cake done. It looks tres chic if I say so myself. I get to display some great pieces and also have easy access for using them.

Dress

2008-06-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

If you read the previous posts you may be wondering "what's for mama?" I found this cute little dress at Kohls for only $17. The original price was $59. It will be great for date night, dinner parties, showers, and even church. I can wear it with black strappy sandals, red wedges, or pink kitten heels. I can do classic silver jewelery, red beads, or pearls. It can be worn with a white, red, pink, or black cami underneath. In the winter I can add a cardigan, tights, and boots. What a deal! All of which I already have, less the boots since they finally kicked it (no pun intended) this past season.

Speakers

2008-06-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

I found these little speakers for an Ipod or mp3 player for only $7.99. They'll be great in the studio for when I'm working on monogrammed items and also in the guest room so that our visitors can plug in their own music and feel at home.

Life is Good

2008-06-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

We like the Life is Good brand around here. I happened upon this shirt for Mr. Bargainista and it was perfect as he loves hiking and backpacking. It was only $9.99. LIG t-shirts are normally around $30.

Hubs also scored a great kelly green golf shirt (brand new) for about $9 and some gently used dress shoes for $12. I'd show you a picture but I'm currently not sure what he did with the goods.

Clothing Teens

2008-06-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

The Bargainista has suffered from my busy-ness lately but recently I've had a shopping spree I knew I had to share.

I had to purchase some necessities for a fourteen year old boy--YIKES! With only athletic clothes and jeans he needed some nicer summer shorts and also some items for our beach trip to Hilton Head this month. I think we did rather well. We hit a gently used clothing store which proved to be a big success as well as a few faithful big box stores such as Target, TJ Maxx, and Old Navy.

Target
Khaki Shorts $15
Total $15

Old Navy
2 t-shirts at $6.99 each
2 flip flops $2.50 each
1 swimsuit $15
I had two $10 off coupons
Total: $15

Kohl's
Relic Sunglasses $14
Total: $14

TJ Maxx
Unionbay Pinstripe Shorts $18
Total: $18

Resale Shop
Hollister long sleeve shirt $14
2 Abercrombie Polo Shirts $10 each
American Eagle Seersucker shorts $10
PacSun Swimsuit $7 (never worn and currently in the store for $45)
We had a coupons.
Total: $30

Grand Total: $92

Also a previous trip to Target and Old Navy we purchased a polo shirt, khaki pants, boxers, and under shirts for about $35.

This makes the entire mini shopping spree $127. Not too shabby!

Church Yard Sale

2008-04-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

The Church of the Bargainsta family hosts a huge garage sale every year in April. It's the only fundraiser for short term mission trips and the total is usually 2o to 30 thousand. Yes, thousands!

Of course Mr. Bargainista and I contributed. Check out our goods.

Deal of the day was this fabulous Columbia parka for Mr. Bargainista. It has the zip out jacket liner and weather proof outside. We've both had our same parkas for a good 8 years. There just isn't a need for it in our town and we usually wear dressier coats for work, etc. However at $15 it was time to update for Mr. Bargainista. This is totally a parka he'd have chosen for himself too. It didn't have tags but there is absolutely no sign of wear. Purchase price: $15.

I'm only jealous because the J. Crew peacoat I loved was a small. Boo!

However, I managed to do well for myself with this array of sweaters. Left to right there is a blue Ralph Lauren, a cream button down Ann Taylor Loft, and brown merino v-neck from Banana Republic. I paid $4, $3, and $5 respectively. The Banana Republic sweater is brand new with the $45 price tag.

I also racked up with a nice selection of shoes. I know garage sale shoes seem gross, but you can tell if they've been worn badly and also spray them with disinfectant. Anyway, it doesn't bother me. Left to right are Banana Republic tweed look ballet flats, cute printed ballet flats from Target (these are currently in the store and I've had my eye on them to go on sale. They were brand new), and the uber casual Gap wedges. The picture doesn't show it but they have a great rope style wedge heel. I have tons of cute skirts I can wear these with this summer. I paid only one dollar each for the shoes. Not pictured is a darling pair of polka dot flip flops from J. Crew. I must have been wearing them.

Mr. Bargainista spotted these hiking boots for me last minute. They'll be great with the backpack for our upcoming trip. The boots were scuffed but the soles were pristine. I think they were $2.50.

I found these cute little things for my house. I'd seen this pumpkin jar at a thrift store last fall but didn't get it. I only paid $1 at the sale. It will be a cute cookie jar when entertaining or having tea, but also a nice centerpiece or decoration when filled with pine cones and acorns, fresh flowers, or seasonal potpourri and spices.

The silver trays are darling. I purchased them last minute at the half off sale and I can't believe someone didn't snag them earlier in the day as they are quite nice. They were seventy-five cents for each piece.

I'll have to take complete inventory and pictures of my silver collection. I've purchased all of it at garage sales and thrift stores and it's quite lovely.

We also had a few other miscellaneous purchases that day but the highlight for Mr. Bargainista was the hotdog lunch: hotdog with the works, chips, drink and cookie for $1.75. He purchased two.

Cute Formal Dress (from Kassie)

2008-03-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

Kassie found the darling little dress above at Dillard's for only $24.75. It was 75% off of the original price of $99. She's going to rock this little number at the Barrister's Ball at her husband's law school. I love formal dresses, but even more than that I love a good deal on a formal dress.

Thanks Kassie!

Saturday Thrift Shop Finds

2008-03-17T19:51:00.000-07:00

Check out these adorable purses! These were at my favorite little thrift store and were also 50% discounted on winter clearance. They were $6.25 each making my total for both $12.5o.

I have a one in, one out rule as to not collect too much stuff. Now the hard part is finding two purses to part with. I'm thinking I can put it off until next year when I have to give a quota to The Bargainista Sale and keep a total of purses I must purge then. That would work, yes?

Super Cute Pink Nine West Bag

Very Chic Black Bag by The Sak

I just love the fun patterened inside. The pockets have great organizing space for my cell phone, mp3 player, zip drive, handheld pc, business cards, and chapstick. What could be better than that?

Clinique Bonus at Dillard's

2008-03-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

In an email from Clinique:

It's Clinique Bonus at Dillard's now through Saturday, March 22nd. Hurry in to get this exclusive cosmetics bag filled with all our great skin care and makeup favourites. Exclusively ours, and yours free* with any Clinique purchase of $21.50 or more. Value $50.00.

Bonus Includes:

1. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

2. Rinse-Off Foaming Face Cleanser

3. Repairwear Intensive Eye Cream

4. Lash Doubling Mascara in Black

5. Long Last Lipstick in All Heart

6. Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in two shades from the pink chocolate quad

7. Cosmetics Bag

8. Bonus Extra Certificate: 20% off any Gianni Bini handbag

Warm regards,Clinique Customer Care

*Quantities are limited. One gift to a customer, please, per event. While supplies last. Event is limited to participating Dillard's stores. If you do not wish to continue receiving updates from us, please reply to this message with the word REMOVE in the subject.Clinique Online 767 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10153.

The Bargainista Sale

2008-03-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was The Bargainista Sale hosted by a women's group of which I'm a member. The Bargainista Sale is a big rummage sale inside a huge warehouse. Each member (400 plus of us) is required to donate $150 of item to the sale with all money raised being poured into the many community activities we champion.

Coming up with $150 of items to donate can be a challenge, but it's a good spring clean and makes room for more bargains! Look below at the fabulous finds I was able to score.

First, I got two L.L. Bean bags for fifty cents each. Wow! You know how The Bargainista loves L.L. Bean. Both bags were monogrammed which I'm sure contributed to the super low price. However I took my seamripper to it and then re-monogrammed it for me! LMB is for Little Miss Bargainista, of course!

The above is a deluxe toiletry bag suitable for families, it's the XL size. I have the same item in medium and the magenta pink. I also have a duffle that matches. This is far too large for me a toiletry bag, but the large open center allows it to be a great overnight bag. There are lots of little mesh pockets to hold my goodies. I should have taken a pic of the inside but you can see it here.

Above is on of L.L. Beans Boat and Tote bags. I just love these bags! I have a medium (above) in pink but with the long handles. I also have an xl with hot pink and the zippered top, it's a great luggage tote (because I don't have enough of those, ahem!). Now, I have this chic black version. I considered doing a fun color monogram but thought the black would keep it classic. I have a matching polka dot ribbon and I may make an attachable bow to give it a cute factor on occasion. I could tell this bag was brand new because it was spotless and had never been washed. These bags are super stiff and once washed get a little more plyable. Isn't the monogram font I used cute?

Books, books, and more books! I purchased ten paperbacks for a dollar each. I never pay full price for books as I read far to quickly for that. I pick them up at resales and the used book store. I'd already put them away but there in these two drawers, where I keep my working collection stashed in my studio. Once I read a book I put in in a stack to resale or pass along.

Last but no least is this beautiful, gorgeous, fabulous piece pictures below. It's an adorable little teacart with a dark cherry finish and matches the coffee table (which also has tray sides and was purchased at a thrift store. This piece will be great for entertaining: a dessert cart, a wine and cheese bar, for (go figure!) serving tea, or also as a mini bar. I can just see bottles and an ice bucket on the bottom with glasses and garnishes on the top. I adore this piece!

Ralph Lauren Jacket

2008-02-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

I can cross another item off of my shopping list sidebar!

Let me preface this post saying that I've been trying really hard to save some cash because 1) I want a new embroidery machine, 2) I like to save money, 3) I have to find a new "Kentucky Derby" outfit complete with hat for a garden party Mr. Bargainista and I are attending in May, 4) I like to save money, 5) a rainy day fund.

However, I found yet another irresistible bargain. I began searching last fall for an "in-between" type jacket. I have blazers, fleeces, and then big peacoats or parkas. I had imagined a chocolate color, quilted type jacket. What I found was even better (excuse the pics with cell phone):

This little jacket is even better than what I imagined. The khaki color is light enough for spring, but dark enough for fall. I's quilted, has cute details with the bronzed buttons, and a very cute blazer-like tailoring in the back.

This jacket is by Ralph Lauren and the original price was $120, but I paid only $35 (including tax). Nothing feels as good as the high from such a bargain!

L.L Bean Vest (the "Hers" edition)

2008-02-26T19:11:00.000-08:00

Since Mr. Bargainista and I are going backpacking I decided I needed a fleece vest. It's been on my list but I marked it off when I received the brown down vest for Christmas (see sidebar). I really like Mr. Bargainista's L.L. Bean vest that is fleece lined with a wind resistant outside. I decided to look for one of my own and found this on ebay:

It's a reddish color with a cool orangish inside. It was only $18 with shipping which is fabulous compared to the L.L. Bean price of $69. However I will say that L.L. Bean has the best customer service ever and their products are top notch so paying full price comes with a great guarantee. Had I not been able to find what I wanted elsewhere, I'd have coughed up the dough and ordered from L.L. Bean. That's said I think my heart stopped that Mr. Bargainista paid full price for my down vest with the fur collar that he gave me for Christmas. I wear it all the time though, I love it! I think this vest will be fabulous as well. If I decide that I want a plain fleece vest later, L.L. Bean has a few great options for $30 and less.

We both own L.L. Bean luggage as well as an L.L. Bean backpack for pooch. We have a few of the boat and tote bags, too. I just love those! I have a medium open-top, and a large zip-top. We have a family open top that is great for roadtrips. They are super durable, machine washable, and always look pulled together.

Mr. Bargainista has a coat from there as well. When he needed the cuffs redone and we'd broken the zipper on a backpack, both were replaced free of charge. Our luggage (the adventure duffle collection, I also have the toiletry bag) are the most durable pieces we own and have survived perfect through many airports and plane rides where others have not. L.L. Bean was also ranked #2 in customer service by Business Week.

Ribbon Ballet Flats

2008-02-22T16:40:00.000-08:00

These ribbon ballet flats were on sale at Target for only $11.99. The original price was $15. Although it's not as much of a sale as The Bargainista is known for, they were going fast and I didn't want to miss out. It's still quite a good purchase for that price. I have two other pairs of ballet flats from Target (a sequined pair and a tweed pair) and they've been fabulous for two and three years. How cute will these be with my spring wardrobe?

If you like these, check your local Target for this and other styles. They were all on sale for $11.99 and had cute floral prints, metallic hues, and also a zebra print with red trim--darling!

Backpack

2008-02-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

Since promising Mr. Bargainista that I'd go backpacking with him this spring, he's been on the hunt for proper gear for me. I told him to be especially selective and well, cheap, since this trip may be my first and last time. I love the outdoors, but I don't get dirty and enjoy regular showers. My kind of camping is when you back the SUV up to the campsite and there is a bathhouse that has running water within walking distance. His idea is putting everything you need on your back and hiking out in the woods for five miles to pitch a tent. I digress.

Mr. Bargainista found me a great backpack on ebay for only $20 (plus shipping I think). It's not an easy task to find a backpack to fit my petite and curvy frame correctly, but this one should do the trick. I also love the super 1990's colors. Radical dude!

I'll keep you posted as he's on the prowl for a sleeping bag (mine's an old clunky one, see above about camping differences) and hiking boots (apparently my running shoes will not suffice for this trip).

In Need

2008-02-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

Internets: I need a pair of black pumps; closed toe, closed heel, preferably not sling back, rather comfy with a heel.

I have a pair that make me cry real tears when I wear them. I wore them to an event recently and wanted to cry on the way home eventhough I wasn't on my feet that much. So, I must find new black pumps. Since purchasing these I should be set for spring but would like to have a back-up pair with the closed toe and heel, especially for fall.

Keep me posted on your good finds in the black pumps department.

New Goodies for the House

2008-02-18T16:17:00.000-08:00

I found these great paisley (my favorite!) canvas bins without even looking and they will be a perfect accessory to the master bedroom, which is currently getting a mini-makeover. The blues and greens are the exact colors of the room and I was looking for a way to add a bit more green. I found these at Kohls. Original Price: $16.99/each. Clearance Price: $6.79/each.

Mr. Bargainista and I decided it was time for a new area rug in the den. The previous rug was a geometric print and we were going for a more rich and elegant look to the space. Also, the old rug wasn't the best quality. This rug is much better and the look and colors are perfect. You can't see it too well but the light blue in there work well with the other blue accents in the room. Otherwise it's shades of khaki and chocolate, just like the den. Of all places to find a great rug, we found this at Target. We'd purchased a rug there a couple of years ago because it was marked down to $30 (from $130) and it fit the space thinking if it didn't last long, it was only $30. However, it's been a great piece. This one feels just as great and will hopefully last for years to come. Original Price: $140. Clearance Price: $65.

A fabulous shopping weekend

2008-02-11T18:27:00.001-08:00

Mr. Bargainista and I visited friends and family in WV last weekend and also a few of our favorite discount stores.

First was Gabe's, the large, warehouse-style, outlet that is a hit and miss. You never know what you're going to find. This trip I found:

Brown Guess Purse for $12.99

Gap T-shirts for $2.99, I also purchased a light pink one but was wearing it

Ann Taylor Trousers for $2.50. Wow! The price tag said $9.99 but they rang up $5.00 with 50% off. I, of course, didn't realize this until way after the fact or I'd have had to buy more, even in the same exact color and pattern. Look at the neat texture on them. Isn't it fabulous?

Mr. Bargainista lucked up too. His goodies were:

Trousers by The Gap for $3.50 each. They are all his normal size yet all need hemmed, in varying degrees. That's the beauty of this store. Most items are "irregular." However for $3.50 per pair, I can give them a quick hem. Excuse the poor picture, but the pants were all lying on the bed in myt studio waiting to be hemmed. He purchased three pair since he was trousers and chinos to work daily.

Mr. Bargainista also got a pair of fabulous Levi jeans for $16.99. No picture because he was wearing them and doing schoolwork in the office.

The Bargainista Pooch lucked up too. We found this great toy for him that is a tug-of-war style yet has tennis balls in the end and it squeaks. I'm hoping the overstimulation means he won't eat it.

He does like to toss it and catch it, hoping the balls or the squeaky gizmo will fall out. We bought him two of these for $1.98 each.

The next day we hit another hot spot, Value City. You may have these in your town, but unfortunately I don't. I used to buy all of my "school clothes" here in high school and was always outfitted in American Eagle and RL Polo, because they were like, um, so totally, like cool. Ya know?

I totally scored this trip!

A madras plaid dress: $14.99.

It's American Eagle which makes me feel a little teeny-bopper, but the dress looks very J. Crew, don't you think? It makes me think of a cottage on the seashore eating peeled shrimp. I can wear it with brown leather thongs for a casual look or dress it up with thonged heels in tan or my hot-pink, kitten-heeled sandals. Adding a denim jacket or blazer can take it into the evening or fall. Best of all? It I spill something on it, it will just blend right in! There will definately be a picture of Mr. Bargainista and I on the beach with me wearing this dress. I've picked out Mr. Bargainista's coordinating outfit too, but don't tell him.

I got this plum-colored turtleneck sweater by Ralph Lauren for $11.

Last for me was this total find of shoes! Liz Claiborne peep-toed sling backs for only $14.50. They are genuine leather and have great stitched detail. They were so fabulous I purchased them in black and brown. These will be great additons to my wardrobe and also and item I can cross off the side bar shopping list. These shoes will be work with dresses, suits, trousers, and perhaps jeans.

Mr. Bargainista found some goodies as well. A Polo fleece jacket for only $6.50 and a fleece best for $4.50 (not pictured because he was wearing it.)

I spent $85 this weekend. Considering the Ann Taylor trousers, Liz Claiborne shoes, or Guess bag each would have cost nearly that , I'd call this weekend a success!

Clinique Bonus at Belk

2008-02-07T05:04:00.000-08:00

Get a great Clinique bonus from your Belk department store when you spend just $21.50. I purchased a perfectly real compact. I was hoping to minimize my morning routine of liquid make-up followed by powder and this compact does just that. For dressier occasions you may still want to do both, but this will be perfect for summer when my skin has more of a glow.

The gift is a great bag, white with large lime green polka dots. It will definately be monogrammed, either in black, pink, turquoise or brown. Inside you get a loose powder that is purse sized. The patter on the outside is that of the bag, super cute. It also comes with a large puff for application. A mild liquid soap face wash, take of the day make-up remover, mascara, and lipstick in sugared maple are all included. I love all fo these products. the small face wash and mascara are perfect for my travel bag. I have a small version of the lipstick so I can now put it in my purse and use the larger in my morning make-up bag.

I do love free gifts, but I don't purchase to get them unless I need a product, and the free gift is a good one. In this case it was both. This is one of the better free gifts I've seen in quite some time. Hurry, go now!

Cranberry Red Pashmina

2008-02-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

I found this great pashmina at my favorite thirft store for only $2.49. I gave it a quick wash and have worn it with several outfit combinations. My favorite is dark denim jeans, a black scoop neck sweater, black ballet flats with a little bow, pearl earrings and bracelet, and the pashmina wrapped around my neck or knotted in the front. Same outfit with this brown sweater and these brown shoes is super cute as well. I have several dresses or skirts this will work for including an ensemble I'm wearing to a wedding this month.

I (puffy heart) the Gap Outlet

2008-01-29T18:03:00.000-08:00

I was in a neighboring town for a business lunch and meeting today. Said town happens to have a rather fabulous oulet mall. Said business meeting lasted too long and kept me from spending more time there. However I did manage to get a quick trip to The Gap, Banana Republic, and the make-up place. Although I found a few items at Banana Republic, I only purchased items at The Gap.

First is this cute creamy colored sweater. It's very thin, three-quarter sleeves, has a loose decorative knit, and a fabulous keyhole with button detail. It's going to be a great spring staple with a cream or bold colored cami underneath it. I also think wearing black underneath it with black trousers would be very sleek. It was only $8.

Next I got this blue jersey knit dress. Does it look familiar? Yes, it's just like brown version I bought last month. It was only $15 and it will be so great for spring and summer in that fresh shade of blue. I plan on making it weekend wear with brown leather flip flops (also from The Gap). I'll probably also wear it on casual Friday with healed, thong sandals.

Last is this brown, merino wool sweater for only $15. It's thin enough to layer but soft and warm. It looks great with jeans as well as my dark pink trousers and eggplant colored trousers. Pardon the wrinkles, I pulled it out of the laundry for the picture.

Memo to Old Navy

2008-01-28T18:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Old Navy,

For the love of all that is good in this world clean up that hell-hole that you call a retail establishment.

Your entire store was one big messy hunk of junk. Tables were piled moutain high with who-knows-what. The only items actually on hangers were all shoved on one teeny, tiny rack and nearly exploded at my very presence. The only thing I could find and browse easily was the very small section of dog items on the end-cap of the register.

However, one can't be in search of new yoga pants and make a trip to Old Navy and come out ~~with only a bag with a new polo for The Bargainista Pooch that she intends to monogram~~ with only that now can one? Don't worry, I didn't. But mostly because I'm mad at you Old Navy.

You often have a lovely variety of yoga pants, zip-up hoodie jackets, socks, and the occasional decent shirt or sweater. However, face it, you're clothes are made cheaply and not exactly long-lasting quality. That said, I still purchase items that are rather inexpensive because I feel I can get my use out of them.

What I will not do is search through your heaps of junk. No siree not me!

I may be The Bargainista, but the only way I'm throwing punches and diving headfirst into that mess is if there is the promise of a pair of True Religion jeans on the bottom for 90% of that fit my stubby legs, birthing hips, and bubble bum perfectly.

Now let me out, I'm going to Target for yoga pants.

Charmingly yours,
The Bargainista

Sexy Pink Shoes (Nancy)

2008-01-28T16:27:00.000-08:00

Nancy found these sexy pink heels at a store called Younkers in Michigan. Orignal price was $120 and she paid only $36! Wow! We need a Younkers in the South!

Plum Dress

2008-01-25T17:31:00.000-08:00

I found this great little dress at Kohl's and it was discounted 90%. It had been $59.99 and I paid only $5.80. I nearly tinkled! I love dresses like this, a very light cotton.

The color is more of a jewel-tone plum than the brightness the camera shows. I used the flash so you could see the great gathered detailing on the front and the elastic on the sleeves. It makes them very blousy and feminine. It can easily be worn in the summer and bundled up to wear in the winter. I'm going ot wear it with brown tights, a brown cami, and brown boots, or black tights and boots with my black pashmina. I also have this great necklace I made that looks perfect with it (see below). That with a gold bangle and gold earrings should complete the look. It will be perfect for my meeting with an advertising agency next week.

Cute Must-Haves

2008-01-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Bargainista and I are putting finishing a third bathroom in our home. We had money on a gift card and went to Marshall's to look for a new shower curtain. We didn't have a shower curtain, but did find other items we'd never pay retail for!

First are these very charming and rustic frames:

We'd first saw similar items on our honeymoon. They were in a quaint little shop on one of the items and sold for $60-80. I took pictures of all the cute items in case I could ever recreate them and also to remind me I would find them for a better deal! I'm sure these aren't the handcrafted luxury that the items from the shop were, but they are great all the same. The larger frame was $12.99 and the smaller was $8.99. These will most likely go in the master bedroom. We found old windows and shutters at an estate sale quite some time ago and this will tie the whole look together.

Next I found these ceramic, wipe-off place holders/labelers:
.

I first saw these through another blog and found them adorable. I love to entertain and what a cute little touch this would be (I'm all about the details!). I'd found them only to be $20 for a pack of four. I paid $6.99 for a pack of four and bought both packs they had. I'd have probably got a third one if it was available. You write on these with a marker but it comes clean with soap and water to use and re-use.

How cute will it look when I serve brunch of car bread with my milk in a glass bottle?

(In case you didn't know, Marshall's is part of the T.J. Maxx chain that includes Ross and Homegoods as well. If you have any of these stores near you, you may be able to find the above items.)

Spyder Fleece

2008-01-12T17:10:00.000-08:00

I have to credit this post to Mr. Bargainista. He found it at our favorite thrift store while I was enjoying muffins, mimosas, and manicures with the girls. This jacket retails in the neighborhood of $100, but Mr. Bargianista scored it for only $4.99 and it's practically brand new! He was very proud of it, as he should be. I noticed it was a bit snugger and shorter on him than normal. Then, ding-ding-ding, the light bulb went off; it will fit me perfectly. And that it does!

(front with full zipper and zipper left pocket, bag, tag)

White House|Black Market Shirt Sale (Rusti)

2008-01-12T11:12:00.000-08:00

Rusti did it again! She found this oh-so-cute little shirt at White HouseBlack Market (we just got a new one in MyTown!) on a great sale. It was regularly $98.00, but marked down to $59.99 and then another 30% discounted. Grand total was $41.99.

This darling little dress was given to her as a gift. She was going to buy it from a friend who didn't want/need it any longer but then the friend gave it to her. Sweet! I love friends like that. Likewise I love giving goood duds to friends too.

Rusti really will be smokin' hawt with these little ditties plus her fabulous shoes. Look out cruise ship--here she comes!

Outlet Shopping: The Mothership

2008-01-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

Mr. Bargainista and I took a juant to visit friends over the long New Year's weekend and while we were there took a pilgrimage to visit the mothership. The mothership that is the Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma outlet. (No I'm not getting paid to say the names, but I'll write them out in case the google me and want to reward me of my love with lots of goodies. You know, just in case.)

Best Deal Ever at the Pottery Barn:

Orignal Price: $1499
Our Price: $450

This lovely armoire now graces our den! ~~I convinced~~ Mr. Bargainista just had to have it! There was a great sale and this great discounts and the more great markdowns that allowed us to afford this fabulous piece.

Other Pottery Barn goodies I found include some wonderful storage for my studio. I bought a few of these very sturdy canves boxes to fit on the shelf in the closet and to keep small items organized and easy to find.

Original Price: $24.99

Outlet Price: $16.99

My Price: $4.99

I also have some natural color canvest storage bins I purchased from there last summer (shown below). They were a mere $6.99 each and are great for storing patterns, my iron, etc.

In keeping up with storage I purchased a few magazine files to match the boxes. These will help me keep up with customers and orders as well as organizing information for a few organiaztions I'm a member of.

Original Price: $24.99
Outlet Price: $16.99
My Price: $4.99

I also purchased a few fabulous items of Christmas decor, but didn't get a picture before they were stored. But let it be said that the items were 60% plus 40% discounted!

Next, we were on to Williams-Sonoma, full of a gabazillion discounts and markdowns as well. We found another fabulous deal-of-the-year type bargain!

Retail Price: $249 (I think)

Outlet Price: $189

My Price: $88

This fabulous CuisineArt (Hi CuisineArt people! Send me free stuff!), non-stick, stainless steel cookware is a dream! Mr. Bargainist and I had wanted it for some time but just couldn't bite the bullet for the price. Patience paid off and we didn't have to! Just look at the numbers! It is by far the most fabulous cookware ever. EV-ER! (My apologies for the poor picture).

Other great finds at Williams-Sonoma included a large pack of bar towels ($6), bar clothes (4.50), and a soap and lotion for my little sink caddy ($3.25 each).

Mr. Bargainista found an adorable little loaf pan that is 6 loaves of cars! He had to have it ($8) and I suppose I'll be make banana bread those goes Vroom! Vroom! very soon.

And how about this cute little milk bottle:

It was only $3.50 and is cute-as-can-be. You can't see the impression on it but there is a cow on one side and a "100% Pure Milk" on the other. When entertaining and serving it looks much nicer than the big plastic jug of milk. It's perfect to sit out with cold cereals or blueberry bread cars (see above!), or guests or to have on table during brunch. I only wish I could actually have this filled and re-filled at a farm store.

Thank you for a fabulous day my mothership!

Sexy, Strappy Shoes (by Rusti)

2007-12-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

Bargainista Rusti found these fabulous sexy, strappy, little shoes for quite a deal! The are from Guess. The original price ws $99.95, marked down to $69.94, and then 70% discounted for a price of $20.98. Rusti--can you buy a pair to send to all of us? You're going to be one hawt momma in these!

Warehouse Shopping

2007-12-20T11:13:00.000-08:00

Mr. Bargainista and I visited our favorite warehouse sale while we were out of town last weekend. The bargains were flowing and we were quite fruitful!

For me:

Ann Taylor Jeans. Original Price: $78. My price: $14.99!

I also purchased footless tights (no pictures). They were both $1.99. The brown were by Ann Taylor and the black by Express. They are great for layering on cold days when running or layering for skiing. I think they're a bit more comfortable than footed tights to wear with dresses and boots and then my own cozy socks on my feet.

For Mr. Bargainista:

This great Woolrich jacket. It's fleece lined with a water resistant exterior. This isn't the exact jacket, but the closest I could find. His is in red. He's been wanting a new fleece so this was perfect timing. It's super cozy and warm. Original Price: $119 His Price: $15.

Also Mr. Bargainista found these fancy schmancy work boots. He'll be way cool in them when he finally completes the honey-do list of items I have for him. We're also planning on a slight demo/additon to our home in January in which he'll do some of the work. Original Price: $114. His Price: $40. This is an especially good deal considering Mr. Bargainista wears a size 14 shoe and you can rarely find them period, much less on a great sale.

My Darling Friend; The Gap Outlet

2007-12-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

I love this cute little dress I found at the Gap Outlet. It's chocolate brown and super comfy jersey knit. It's thin and made for warmer weather, but I layered with a tank, sweater, and pashmina on the top and tights and boots on the bottom for a great look. It would also look nice with long sleeves layered under it. In warmer weather I'll wear this with leather flip flops or my leopard thong shoes. It was only $20. (Original price was $49.99, outlet price was $34.99 and it was 40% discounted.)

This little dress was most definately a deal from the orignal price of $59.00. I paid only $4.97! It's a cute little black spaghetti strapped slip dress with the cutest pleated trim at the bottom. This will be a great dress to wear with bright shoes and accessories (pink for me!) and to also tie a large satin ribbon around the middle. You can layer shirts under this or cardigans over. I'm certain I'll be layering it son with sweaters, leggings, and boots. I'll also wear this as casual summer wear. It's an easy throw-on outfit with a messy bun and cute sandals for a very polished look. I'm going to have a make a new chunky beaded necklace to go with it.

Full dress (Left) and pleated detail (right).

Christmas Helpers

2007-12-06T08:07:00.001-08:00

Did you know you can order Christmas stamps online from the post office for only $1 shipping? How convenient to mark off one more errand.

Are you shopping online? Try to get good deals and discounts by shopping for coupon codes at Current Codes or Retail Me Not.

You can get your picture Christmas Cards printed at Shutterfly for quite a deal and even a few freebies if you're a new comer. Also try services such as winkflash, snapfish, and kodak, (although I'm a devout Shutterfly girl--they have excellent customer service!) I love photo cards! They're so personal and usually less expensive than the store bought boxed kind.

Several merchants are offering free shipping deals through the end of the year with no minimum purchase. Check out L.L. Bean. They have something for everyone your list, even the Bargainista Pooch.

Please share your wealth of knowledge of your favorite Christmas Deals: free shipping, discounts, coupons, etc.

Dishes

2007-11-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

Mr. Bargainista and I had been looking for new dishes for a few months. Ok, I had been look for new dishes for a few months. We'd found dishes we liked on a whim at World Market and decided to do a bit of research. Mr. Bargainista wanted dishes that would stand more upright in the dishwasher as our current dishes were a quite concave. I just wanted pretty, new, white, slightly ornate yet elegant and classy dishes.

After plenty of search and debate Mr. Bargainista was faced with the face that i simply cannot make decisions and the idea was put on hold.

Our favorites until that point were the Nantucket from World Market (the original dish that started the debate), Emma from Pottery Barn, Buffalo China from Williams-Sonoma, and Everyday White from Bed, Bath, and Beyond.

Until (oh until!) my darling Bargainista Friend S found the most perfect dish ever at the Pottery Barn Outlet. It is a version of the Emma dish, only made for the outlet. I've decided to call it Ella. Ella was a true white, unlike Emma's creamy color which was the great cause for debate over it. It was also less expensive than Emma. Oh, and it was also discounted 40%. And oh my goodness as if it couldn't get any better she had a coupon and the total price for 12 place settings including 2 serving bowls was only $140!

For that price I've decided I'll probably need extra place settings, you know, for back-up. But shhh!, don't tell Mr. Bargainista!

Here they are, feel free to drool on them, I have a napkin.

Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer (Black Friday Deal)

2007-11-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

Kassie found a great deal on this KitchenAid Stand Mixer at Amazon. The regular price was $349.99 and she snagged it for only $179.99. Or rather, her mom snagged it, but it was for her so it totally counts. She chose the empire red, isn't it pretty?

I'm a big fan of KitchenAid. I have the same stand mixer in onyx black and I love it. Really, I love it. No really, I love it! I have several attachments and accessories for it as well and hope to get the ice cream maker next. Oh, and an extra bowl, I really need that.

In addition to the stand mixer I also have the the seven cup (with three cup mini bowl) food processor (in black) which is fabulous. It's great as an extra mixer if necessary and makes it easy to whip up great little salad like chicken salad or coleslaw. You can get great accessories for the food processor to make it so much more than a food processor! I hope to collect the dough blade and some more discs. Can you tell I like to be in the kitchen?

Other KitchenAid accessories include my knives and utensils (again, all in black.) KitchenAid makes for a great product so if you can ever find a sale, it's very much worth it. The sales will probably be more expensive than other brands, but the quality you get is far better and will last longer.

On a side note, KitchenAid did not pay me to virtually make-out with them, I just really love the stuff!

(Thanks Kassie for being a Bargainista!)

Damage Hath Been Done

2007-11-23T07:36:00.000-08:00

Shopping concludes!

Scrapbook totes for 50% off--as low as $35 at AC Moore and Jo-Ann. I didn't purchase since I don't really travel to scrapbook, but putting all the goods in a tote would clear up desk drawers.

Tool Bags at The Home Depot for $10. Also a 3-pack of LED flashlights for $5. Several power tools on sale for a good deal, all of which Mr. Bargainista already owns so no scores there.

Old Navy had women's jeans for only $15. The nice dark washed kind too. All sorts of sweaters and things were rather cute and $30 or less.

Belk had an amazing home selection that everyone needs to check out. Lots of good deals available and a coupon in the ad for an extra $25 off of a $75 purchase--including sale items!

Target had these shirts for $6--shelves and shelves of them. Also there were way cute sweaters (the layering kind) for $15, cute and cuddly pajama sets for $12, faux pashmina wraps for $8, and fuzzy fleece robes for $10. Go buy those and then let me monogram them for you for a great gift!

There are an abundance of deals on outerwear everywhere you go. Whether you're looking for store brand products for labels such as The North Face and Columbia, you can find great sales. However, I'm not sure you can't wait and get those later either as they'll be more of a sale after Christmas if you can hold out with gift cards.

Email me to tell me all about your goodies and we'll do a Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza post for all to relish in. Pictures would be great as well.

Black Friday

2007-11-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

Black Friday is a mere two days away. Stores practically open no sooner than the turkey is in the fridge. I know you fabulous bargainistas will be shopping away for great deals. Come back here to tell us about them and we'll do a whole Black Friday Bargainista post next week and relish in your fabulous finds!

Here are some sites to help you make a great plan of attack:

http://www.blackfriday.info/

http://www.blackfridayads.com/

http://www.blackfriday.gottadeal.com/

http://bfads.net/

Enjoy!

Clinique Goodies

2007-11-16T10:57:00.000-08:00

Fellow bargainistas--I'm afraid I've mislead you. My local Clinique in the Belk store was having a special promotional gift because it was the Grand Opening celebration. The Belk in my local mall recently did a great deal of expansion including doubling the retail space. Now that the project has been completion, they're celebrating a grand opening. It wasn't too shabby either since I was wined and dined with cheese, shrimp cocktail, and champagne (among other goodies they had).

The gift came at a great time as I needed liquid foundation, concealer, loose powder, and touch base. Even after my bunco winnings I only have one lonely little dollar in my wallet. However, I did get this fabulous free gift in addition to my needed necessities:

The tall bag has handles and a zipper. It's large enough for full sized bottles of shampoo. It's great for suitcases in case your products leak. The bag was filled with lots of goodies including moisturizer, liquid facial soap, make-up remover, happy perfume, lip gloss, and mascara. In addition to all of the above, I got the cute little silver travel bag. It has three zipper pockets and folds up with hook and loop fastener. Snazzy!

I love the small goodies for my overnight bag. I keep a small cosmetic and toiletry bag packed in a my go-to overnight bag so all I have to add are clothes. It's quite handy. My toiletry bag consists of the staples: shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, etc. The cosmetic bag is a compact, mascara, lipstick and gloss and a few neutral shade of shadow.

Sorry for getting your hopes all up, but keep an eye out for this bonus in the future. There will be lots of perks available with Christmas just around the corner.

Visit here and here for my previous Clinique bonus-time gift.

Word on the Street

2007-11-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

Belk is currently offering a Clinique bonus. I'll be swining by before bunco this evening to check it out. Let me know if you're local department store is having bonuses. This time of the year several cosmetic counters offer freebies with purchase. Go check them out before they're all gobbled up by Thanksgiving. (Get it? Gobbled? Oh har har!)

A Bargainista Must--Responsible Pet Ownership

2007-11-14T08:47:00.000-08:00

Pet manners, obedience, and training classes are a bargain at any cost (almost).

First and foremost The Bargainista believes in and preaches responsible pet ownership. Even the kindest and most gentle animal may still react negatively or defensively in certain situations. Basic classes to instruct the humans on how to best interact with the animal and guide the animal during such situations are a must.

As an added bonus, the animal responding to and obeying commands simply makes your life easier and less frustrating when dealing with the animal. If your pet knows manners and obedience and how to properly respond to his human and in his environment, then he will feel more comfortable outside of his environment by following instructions from his human. Animals will feel safer hearing common commands and knowing the expected behavior.

Ok, enough with the jargon, but case in point I have a lovely little pooch. He is attending Pooch Prep Academy for a six week course totalling $110. I checked all of the schools and training classes in our area and found this to be the best deal. I was prepared with a list of questions to ask and felt that Pooch Prep offered the most extensive and best training and especially for the price. The instructor answered above and beyond my questions which gave me the best feeling about her classes.

By checking out all options in your area, you too can find the "best bang for your buck" in pet training. There are often discounts for more than one animal and finding coupons or discount offers is relatively simple. If the human is a good student and pays close attention, classes for future animals may not be necessary as you can simply work hard to do it at home on your own. Here's a pic of The Bargainista Pooch as his Prep School Class last night. What a little scholar!

Party Dress at Target (plus much more!)

2007-11-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

Of course I bring you good tidings of great Target shopping.

I made a quick run there after my meeting and found this darling little Isaac Mizrahi dress for only $9.98! They were too big for me (that's fun to say) but I plan on scoping out a few other area Targets to find my size. This is so cute as a party dress with strappy sandals, as a dressed-up frock with boots and a cardigan, or even as a ladies-who-lunch dress with ballet flats and a tote. Retail is $39.99 and I had a friend who (shutter!) paid that last summer.

Target also has an entire collection of long sleeve shirts discounted 3o% to $6.98. They had several different colors and styles such as crew neck, v-neck, or scoop neck (shown). I think I'll go back for the orange and the berry. I'm partial to Gap brand favorite t's, but these seem to be great quality. Precious little polos for (get this!) $2.98! Yes, I said $2.98. This chocolate brown was my favorite. Could be cute with long sleeve tee under it and these shoes. Unfortunately I don't really care for how I look in polos, so I did not purchase. However for $2.98, the debate is still out.
There was also a variety of trousers, pants, sweats, and workout and lounge type clothing but I didn't have time to go through all of it. There were several rounders 30%-75% discounted.

So Go! RUN, don't walk to your nearest Target now. Now, now, now!

L.L Bean Vest

2007-11-13T06:59:00.000-08:00

This weekend Mr. Bargainista found a fabulous L.L. Bean vest at our favorite little thrift store for a mere $7.99 and it was brand new! Plus, the thirft store is continuously giving register discounts for little games (probably because they get so much volume in donations they like to keep the stock moving) so he recieved an extra 25% discount.

I've not wrangled him down for a picture, but the vest looks much like this one (retail $59!) and is green and gray. What a fabulous deal for my casual, outdoor-loving, and handsome husband!

Bargain Bags

2007-11-12T09:51:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite designer purses (Gucci, Kate Spade, and Burberry) bought at a consignment store and a consignment sale for an itsy-bitsy fraction of what the bags originally cost. They were bought at different times and at two different sales.

I'm not one to get caught up in trends and prefer a classic look, and these bags fit the bill. They're cute, roomy, stylish, and I get tons of compliments about them.

Never underestimate consignment stores and consignment sales. It's best to shop often so you can find the best items. Most consignment stores have a quality check so you're not looking at junk, but quality-used items.

Kitchen Cart

2007-11-06T12:44:00.001-08:00

J and I had ogled this kitchen cart at Home Depot for awhile now. We wanted a small island type cart for extra storage and prep work. This weekend it was on clearance for 30% off. (To me thirty percent isn't clearance, it's a sale. But it was also the next to last one left). J quickly snatched it up for the bargain price of $70. Not too shabby, all things considered. The drawer pulls out to be a tray. A cutting board slides in the top as well, it has wheels that lock, and my JL cookbooks look oh-so-cute on the shelf. I'm also thinking a big bowl of fruit to make it pretty on the top when we have guests or as a cheese station for entertaining.

To add to the great bargain, we didn't pay anything for it because we still have wedding gift cards (nearly 2 years later). We hadn't used them since the summer when we added to our wrought iron patio furniture by getting a glider and chaise lounger.

A bargain and a gift card--that's a good day!

Silver Serving Tray

2007-11-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

My husband and I frequented our favorite thrift store on Saturday morning, as we often do. We often enjoy browsing, yet buy nothing. However we've also found some great items. This weekend I found a fabulous item.

This silver serving tray has little pedastal feet, scalloped edging, and a lovely engraved design. And to make it even better, it was engraved on the back 7-31-72. I love old things so to learn that this beautiful thing is 35 years old was rather exciting. Bargain priced at only $4.99 I scooped it right up.

It will be nice for serving finger sandwiches or cupcakes as well as crackers, grapes, and cheese. I also thought about putting a topiary in the middle surrounded by red glass Christmas ornaments for a festive and fancy Christmas centerpiece. The same can be done with a topiary and fancy Easter eggs (no plastic--this is afterall silver!!!).

Patience is a virtue, especially in shoe shopping!

2007-11-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

Remember the cute brown moc shoes I was coveting? I decided to go check them out once again armed with a coupon. I was oh-so-pleasently surprised to find them on clearance for $8! That's 60% off. I snatched them up and wore them out of the store:

These will look super cute with jeans and an orange sweater for tailgating this weekend!

The Bargainpooch

2007-10-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

Target has some fabulous clearance goodies for the pooches in your family. Mack was the proud recipient of a Tennessee T-shirt (at the 30% of price of $6.98):

I also purchased lots of other items that will be for his Christmas stocking, so shh! dont' tell him. Blue and white striped leash ($2.48), matching collar ($1.83), both will be monogrammed in orange. I also got him a dark brown leather collar ($2.48) and several bags of fancy treasts between $1.50 and $3. There were tons of other goodies available along with some cute little clothes and picture frames. Visit the end cap of the pet aisle at your local Target.

Garage Sale China

2007-10-26T07:15:00.000-07:00

I sometimes feel I must be the luckiest girl alive. As much as I often think my life must be a comic strip for God, I also think He shines on me and leads me to the best deals. I know no one else who loves china, antiques, and bargains as much as I do to find this, and at a random garage sale of all places.

Behold: Noritake China, Kendal pattern, circa 1969. Eight place settings, two vegetable bowls, large platter, salt and pepper shakers, butter dish, and creamer and sugar bowl. Total cost: Fifty Dollars. Yes, $50! This is in the neighborhood of a thouand dollars worth of china. And best of all is that it compliments our wedding china beautifully.

Now if I can only find the teapot for a reasonable price (rather than the $200 it is selling for).

Twenty at Target

2007-10-25T07:07:00.000-07:00

Target is having great clearnace currently. I dashed in to find a birthday gift for a sweet little girl turning four. My goal was a leotard since she has recently began gymnastics. They're usually rather pricy, even for plain ones. However I found a great bright and colorful leotard on clearance (30% if I recall) for $11.88. It's long sleeved as well which will be great for the winter months and something she doesn't have.

The deals didn't stop there! I also picked up some fall themed cookie cutters (leaves, pumpkin, acorn), a pumpkin costume for Mack, a new leather collar and also a blue and white fabric collar with matching leash that I can monogram.

Total? Twenty bucks and some change.

Black Ballet Flats--Kassie

2007-10-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

Kassie found these uber cute black ballet flats at JC Penney for a mere $1.97! Wow! She says she has plenty fo black ones, but for $1.97, you can use an extra pair. Look how comfy they look and the great rubber soles. I may have to go check out my own JC Penney store.

Thanks for submitting to The Bargainista, Kassie!

Luigi Bormioli Serving Bowl

2007-10-22T10:29:00.001-07:00

I found this great Luigi Bormioli serving bowl at Ross (part of the TJ Maxx chain) on clearance for only $5.00! I've been coveting this piece at Bed, Bath, and Beyond for $20. Won't it look great with a pretty salad in it? Mmm, or pasta?

I have several Luigi Bormioli pieces and they're all great. The glass is very thick and heavy and look so lovely and elegant on a table. Pieces I have include: 12 tall drinking glasses, pitcher, chip and dip serving set, cake stand, and pedastol trifle bowl. I heartily reccommend all of the pieces. If you're interested, most pieces can be found at Bed, Bath, and Beyond stores but dont' forget to look at your discount retailers such as TJ Maxx and Ross.

The cute brown moc style shoes

2007-10-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

Here are the little shoes from Payless that I love. I've yet to get them, but aren't they cute?

Skirt $4.98

2007-10-16T06:19:00.000-07:00

Another great deal from the Target clearance rounder. This was 75% off and only $4.98. I love the colors. There were several others in this style in blues ad browns. I chose this one because purple is my least favorite color and I actually like it in fabric. I thought it would add an extra punch of color to my wardrobe. Also, I can wear other colors with it so I don't have to purchase more purple since it's not my favorite.

I think I'll wear it with a berry colored sweater and brown knee boots. However I'd love to find a navy sweater for fall too and it would look great with this skirt too.

(Sorry for the picture quality but for ease and convenience I often just do snapshots with my cell.)

Shopping for a Cause

2007-10-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

There are several items from a variety of manufacturer's that are sold in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (if you're just tuning in, that's now, October).

Send me your favorite items (whether you've bought them or not) and any extra information about them (how/where to purchase, percent of profits benefitting the cause, etc.). Even if you've just seen an item or have a link pass it on. By the end of the week we'll put together a little shopping guide.

My email address is to the right.

Free Three-Step Face Collections from Clinique

2007-10-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Clinique counter at my local Belk store is giving away FREE mini three-step skin collections. You just stop by the counter, tell them you want to try the three-step skin collections and they give you a soap, clarifying lotion, and moisturizer based on your skin type. I suppose I cheated since I already use their stuff but was excited to get the mini version for my travel bag.

Visit your local Clinique counter and see if they promotion applies there as well, if not, then ask when they will have such a promotion, the sales ladys will usually tell you. Plus, in my experience with Clinique, if you're looking to try before you buy, they may have a couple things to pass along to you anyway, even if it's not an advertised promotion. For example, I always (always!) ask for a mini perfume when I purchase anything there. I tell them I'm a regular Clinique user and I like to the small sizes for my travel bag, purse, etc. and they most always find one for me. When I made my last purchase, the sweet counter girl gave me the display sample--hey, I'll take it!

BOGO at Payless

2007-10-09T06:39:00.000-07:00

Payless Shoes currently has a buy one get one half price special. I haven't shopped at Payless in years because their shoes weren't super comfortable to me and seemed to wear out fast. However, I do love the American Eagle brand. I have (had) several pairs when the shoes were sold at high end retail stores such as Dillards, Elder Beerman, and Lord & Taylor (don't worry-they were still bargains!). I mostly had very dressy, special occasion type shoes in that brand that I used for high school and sorority formals.

In a desperate hunt for brown strappy sandals for last weekend's wedding I went to Payless. I didn't find what I needed, but I did find the cutest pair of loafers that I think I just have to have! They're dark chocolate brown suede loafers with a big sheer bow in chocolate brown with khaki polka dots. They're precious! Unfortunately I didn't find them online, but in true ironic fashion I did find a pair of shoes that would have been perfect for the wedding and were half of what I paid for the pair I found in My Town, but that's a different story.

Anyway--go to you local Payless, maybe you'll find the cute loafers I'm talking about. I want to wear them with a khaki skirt and light sweater, with jeans and a button-down, with walking shorts and a cardigan, and with khaki pants and a preppy wrap shirt.

Be sure to send pictures of your goodies if you go, or if you find any elsewhere.

Cute and Sexy Black Sandals-Jenny

2007-10-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Jenny found these darling sandals for only $9.99 at Kohls. The regular price had been $50. What a deal! These are so cute and sexy. I can see them with jeans and a great off the shoulder scoop neck top or with a flirty little black dress and pashmina.

Thanks for sharing Jenny!

Updates

2007-10-03T08:05:00.000-07:00

There have been a great deal of past due updates finally put up. Scroll through and look at the new goodies. See especially Rusti's Outlet Bargains (Sept. 6) and Jenny's Ebay Bargain (Sept. 21) and don't forget to leave all your good home bargain spotting for Jenny! Email me so I can put it up (quicker than I have been--really!).

Also, see the Currently Shopping For section to the right? I'm going to make that a community list too. So, if there is something you're currently looking for send it over. I'll post it with your name beside it and if other bargain hunters have a spotting or knowledge of said item--we can post it here.

Geesh Internet, I'm getting all sweaty over here thinking about all this bargain-shopping love!

The Great EBAY Shower Curtain (Jenny)

2007-09-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

Jenny found this super cute shower curtain for her brand-new house! She got it on ebay for a mere $3.25 plus shipping. She's painting the walls the pretty sage green color from the curtain.

Send in all of your good home decor bargain spottings so we can send Jenny out to get them!

My Clinique Goodies

2007-09-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

I was on the fence about getting the free gift. However when I showed up to look at it there was a divine gift set that lured me right in.Just look at that cute little metallic pink bag with a mirror on the outside. The bag is long and thin which is really nice for a change of size. It's also soft and quite roomy. It's filled with lipsticks, make-up remover, eye cream, mascara, and a whole gaggle of eyeshadows that are in one little case with a mirrored cover. I'm in love!

The set was about $30 plus tax but so worth it when combined with the great free gift.

*Sorry for the shoddy photo quality. Clinique photos online are all like that!

Cute Fall Shirt

2007-09-18T07:43:00.000-07:00

I love this little shirt! It's the perfect style and colors for fall. This quickie cell phone pic doesn't do it justice at all. It's a beautiful rich teal color. The shirt on the underlayer is the same teal color with a white design and lime green specks where the designs intersect. The underlayer is also sheer which gives it a great dressed up look. The collar area is rouched for a ruffly effect. The best part? It had been $45 and was on clearance for $14,99. What a deal! I happned to find it on a random walk through JC Penney.There were lots of other beautiful colors too: browns, magentas, blacks, khakis, and reds.

I love that I can wear this in so many ways. I've paired it with dark denim trousers, red wedge open toed shoes, and large sliver hoops. I can also see it with khaki walking shorts and loafers, as well as with a black pencil skirt and faux croc pumps.

Bonus Time at Clinique

2007-09-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hurry up! Clinique is having a bonus in Dillard's stores through September 29. I simply cannot resist a good bonus time deal and this one is rather nice.

(sorry for the poor picture quality! go to dillards.com for a better look.)This great gift includes:

Rinse-Off Eye Makeup Solvent
All About Eyes Rich
Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Mochaberry
High Impact Mascara in Black
Different Lipstick in Think Bronze
eyelash curler
honeycomb-print bag

I use a great deal of Clinique products. First and foremost their perfume! I became hooked on Happy many moons ago and then also Happy Heart. My husband bought me Happy In Bloom to wear on our wedding day and I love it as well. Here's a run down of other Clinique products I use:

Take of the Day Make-Up Remover
Rinse-off Creaming Cleanser
All About Eyes (eye cream)
Superbalm Lip Treatment
Moisture Surge Extra Face Spray
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
Self-Sun Body Tanning Lotion
Self-Sun Face Tanning Lotion
Superbalanced Liquid Make-Up
Soft Finish Pressed Powder
Touch Base for Eyes
Blended Face Loose Powder
Bronzer in Sunkisseed
High Impact Mascara
Eye Shadows in Strawberry Fudge, Like Mink, Mocha Berry, Lilac Truffle, Rose Wine, Coffee Shop, Lucky Penny, Rum Spice, Spring Wedding, and a couple that have names worn off the back.
Blush in Pink Blush and New Clover
Lipsticks in Sugar Maple, Think Pink, Rasberry Glaze, A Differnt Grape, Candy Pink, Watermelon, and Black Cherry
Lipglosses in Sunset, Juicy Apple, Trilling, and Air Kiss

Ok, so I have a thing for Clinique. Most items have been free gifts or been bought to get the free gift. Plus, I used to have a great Clinique girl that really took care of me and game me tons of goodie and specials. Unfortunately she's now a stay-at-home-mom. (Well unfortunate for me--great for her!) I have a few complaints about Clinique. The lip treatment is souped up petroleum jelly so I don't deem it worth the price, the superbalanced make-up and regular moisturizers do not have sunscreen, and the eyeshadows aren't super pigmented so I have to layer a lot to get color. Most people don't do the eyes as much as me, so they're perfect and soft.

However, as I've said, I have a mad love for the perfumes. They are very light and fresh. I have severe allergies (four shots a week!) and super perfumy scents give me headaches to boot. With Clinique I can wear the scents everyday with no consequences.

What are you waiting for? Go to you local Dillard's Clinique counter!

White Serving Bowls

2007-09-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

I love serving pieces and tend to collect the majority of mine in white. I love entertaining and often host soirees and get-togethers and I love to do it up right. I think I like the white serving pieces because they match any piece and any season. I decorate other items thematic or seasonal. I have tons of different trays and platters but no white serving bowls. I was excited to find these on clearance at HomeGoods for $3 each (I purchased two of them). They're also a great size for serving dinner on the table when it's just J and I.

Nine West Purses

2007-09-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

As a congratulations gift for getting a new job, I decided to go handbag shopping. I found tons of great little purses at T.J. Maxx. It was hard to choose but I finally decided on this, only in chocolate brown:

Retail price was $89 but the T.J. Maxx price was only $25. Plus I had a gift card so I didn't really "pay" anything.

I also thought this one was cute:

It to was $25. It's a bit of a Coach knock-off but I do like it. There was also patterns in all shades of beige and then one with green. T.J. Maxx has the best accessories at great prices.

Leopared Ballet Flats at Target

2007-09-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

These cute little leopard ballet flats are at Target for only $7.48. These will be so cute with jeans and orange shirts for football games this fall. Also with red or pink shirts. These will make a nice brunch outfit with khaki pants and a nice black top--the perfect fall ensemble. Great possibilities! Don't miss them.

Rusti's Outlet Bargains

2007-09-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

My darling friend and blogger Rusti hit the outlet malls and found lots of goodies!

The white & chocolate brown shorts are from the Tommy Hilfiger outlet store - they were 50% off - $14.99 each! The khaki bermuda's and the capri dress pants were at the Old Navy outlet - 30% off - the shorts were $13.99 the capri's were $17.49!

I love the chocolate brown shorts and the khaki bermudas. The thing I love about shorts and capris is as fall approaches they are cute and fun to wear with long sleeves and ballet flats. I also enjoy shorts with a jacket or hoodies and sneakers.

Vacation Time!

2007-08-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Bargainista is on vacation! I'll be cruising the Caribbean enjoying the sun, sand, and surf and will return after Labor Day. Find good sales while I'm away!

Great Men's Swimsuits

2007-08-24T17:13:00.000-07:00

Kohl's as usual has the motherload on sale. My husband found several great swimsuits for about $6 to $8 dollars each. There are some great preppy designs in the Chaps brand (I puffy heart RL!) and also some fun tropical ones. He of course chose the orange ones--Go Vols!

Sorry I don't have pictures--but go find your own now.

Senseo Coffee Pots

2007-08-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

Kassie sent me this great discount from Senseo coffee pots. She got her senseo through this nifty little survey and loves it.

Go here: http://www.sharesenseo.com/index.jsp?q=e-v32

If you're selected then you'll receive the following for only shipping and handling of $15!

Senseo(r) Single Serve Coffee Pod System
Bag of Senseo(r) gourmet coffee pods
Senseo(r) Coffee Pod Canister for easy pod storage and long-lasting freshness
5 $20-off Senseo(r) coffee machine cards to share with friends and family

Go drink coffee and be merry!

Less Than Thirty-Five Dollars

2007-08-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

See this picture?

Everything in it was LESS THAN thirty five dollars! (I hate that the pictures isn't better, but I was pressed for time and couldn't do the individual items.) Good grief I know that is nearly impossible, however I hit the mega-sale at a little shop at The Pinnacle. I was so excited to find some great summer items for my vacation next week. The majority of my summer wardrobe is work appropriate. I don't purchase a lot of items I call "weekend wear" which means I couldn't dress them up in someway for the office. I was thrilled to find some tanks and dresses that would be great for our cruise vacation, but wouldn't break the bank since I won't get to wear them often. However, I did score a few bonus items that I can wear often with several outfits in a variety of settings (work, church, dinner, summer parties, football games, etc.)

The items are hard to see, so let me explain:

Brown short-sleeved, three button cropped cardigan. It's really lightweight and great to dress up camis and tanks for the office.
White short-sleeved, three button cropped cardigan. This will be supercute over summer dresses in the office, and also in church. Although my church is pretty laid back, I personally cannot wear strapless attire.
Hot pink cotton mini-dress. It has tank straps with button closes and a little ruffle at the bottom. This is going be my swimsuit cover on vacation. And it just might find itself monogrammed.
Smocked tube dress, retro-style. It's the white with brown and green dots and big brown tie. Isn't it cute? the top is completely smocked and the bottom flows out a little above the knee. It looked great with my brown leather flip flops and wood and gold accessories. I thought this would be good for a little vacation sight-seeing. (I hate feeling like the frumpy tourist in shorts, t-shirt, sneackers, and fanny-pack! Plus, I want to be cute in the pictures we take!)
Smocked-back strapless shirt. This is the blue plaid with pink, white, and a little gold. It's so cute! I like it with capris, with jeans, with a little skirt, and also with trousers. Although it ties around the back, I can wear one of the little cardigans with it because they're cropped. The smocked back is a cute detail if you pull your hair up.
Pink on pink polka dot tube top. Just as the name says, that's what it is. It's a light cotton tunic style so it's a little long, which is the style I prefer. However you can stretch or pull to a variety of flattering lengths. It looks great with all of the items mentioned for the above tube top as well. I'm thinking this fall it will be cute brown trousers or jeans and the brown cardigan.
Pink purse. Totally pleather but so cute! It looks very Autumn rather than Summer clearance so I'm wondering if it was mis-priced. I should have picked up a few for gifts! I love the rouching detail around the handles.
Ribbed Tanks: I purchased a hot pink with light pink stripes, turquoise with teal stripes, solid teal, and then a slightly different version with lace embellishment that is turquoise stripes with turquoise lace. I can mix and match these together and add other tanks as well for tons of looks.