I've been meaning to nail down a series of weekly posts to keep this blog current. It got a major overhaul earlier this year in terms of branding and visuals, and now I'm finally able to tackle the most important part - content.  Since things always tend to get crazy right when I'm on a roll, I've decided to start with something simple that I can crank out quickly - aka short on text and straight to the point. Introducing - Friday Finds. Once a week I'll be sharing a handful of bargain priced items I'm loving at the moment. If there's one thing I love, its a good deal. I don't think I'll ever outgrow the high I get when scoring something that's beautiful yet reasonably priced. While I always believe in investing in key quality items, never underestimate pieces you'll find at fast-fashion retailers. I have jeans and jackets from HM and Zara that are at least 8 years old that I still love and reach for often - and they are still in great shape. 

My bargain shopping tips
The key to shopping high street is avoiding the uber trendy items, sticking to the pieces you are comfortable in that have timeless appeal, and making sure to read the material content and care labels. Stay away from acrylics and rayon (most especially if it says 100%, blends are reasonable for coats and jackets). While clothing made from these fabrics can look and feel high end, they hold up poorly in terms of wash and wear - specially if you are too busy to properly sort out laundry and pay a visit to the dry cleaner. Keep an eye out for cotton, wool, cashmere and silk blends that better stand the test of time. Thankfully, fast fashion brands have been incorporating more luxe materials into their designs and answering our call for affordable quality goods. Also, give polyester a chance. It holds up extremely well in the washing machine, and most of the time does not require ironing. 

Up until a couple years ago, I had always favored shopping in-store. I enjoy browsing through the racks and feeling each item. However, I've had much better luck finding better quality bargains online. It saves lots of time since each item is clearly laid out in front of you, and the pieces are styled  so you get a better idea of how something can be worn. Since most web shops offer extremely affordable or free shipping, it is a much more efficient and practical way to shop - specially when you don't have the time!

Forever 21's contemporary lineAsos White label , And Other Stories and HM's trend collection are a few of my favorite destinations for finding "high-end" looking pieces for a steal. The styles, fit and quality of these elevated lines are much more sophisticated than comparable shops.

Here's a handy set of links to a few great sales happening over the next few days. Thanks for dropping by and have a fabulous Labor Day weekend!


Labor Day sales

Clothing
Adela Mei  | Extra 20% off dresses, code: DRESSITUP
ASOS | extra 10% off the 70% off sale, code: YAY10
Banana Republic | 40% off entire purchase, code: BRFALL
Bloomingdales | save 20-70% on select items
Bluefly | over 5,000 styles up to 90% off
Club Monaco | 40% off sale and clearance, code: NOTOVERYET
COS  | Holiday treat, select items on sale
Forever 21  | Buy one get one free on sale items, code:BOGOFREE
Gap | 40% off everything
Intermix | extra 50% off all sale items
J.Crew | 30% off your order of $125+, code: GETSHOPPING
Kate Spade | 25% off sale items, code: Delight
Macy's  | Free shipping over $75 plus extra 20% off, code: SUPER
Madewell | 30% off fall essentials and extra 30% off sale
Nasty Gal  | extra 30% off sale
Necessary Clothing | 20 % off everything, code: BACKTOCOOL20
Neiman Marcus | up to 65% off end-of-summer steals
Old Navy | up to 60% off everything
Saks Fifth Avenue |  save up to 75% off
The Outnet |  Free next day shipping
The Real Real  | 20% off select items, code: HOLIDAY
Lorna Jane | up to 60% off


Home and Travel
Furbish | 15% off site wide, code: LABORDAY
Gilt Group | up to 80% off
Hotels.com | $50 off when you spend $300 or more (book by 9/7), code:labor50
Pottery Barn | Buy more, save more, code: SAVEMORE
Priceline | save 25% off select hotels when booked by 9/16
Sur La Table  |  10% off, code: GREATDEAL
West Elm | Buy More Save More, code: SAVEMORE
Wisteria | 20% off everything, code: LABORDAY20
Wayfair  | up to 70% off
Williams Sonoma | 20% off one item, code: LABORDAY


This week's FRIDAY FINDS

A few things I've been eyeing lately are outerwear, dresses and tops. Pieces that can easily transition from casual to dressy, summer to fall.






Thanks so much for dropping by and have a fabulous long weekend!