Macys
New Designer Budget Lines for Fall
So, the recession’s starting to get to you - you’re tired of fishing for halfway decent clothes at Goodwill, avoiding the non-sales racks like the plague, and ditching your daily Starbucks just so you can afford a pair of shoes or a handbag every once in a while. Fall’s coming, and you can’t sacrifice your style any longer. Well, you don’t have to. We’ve found some great designer budget lines that will keep you looking fab.
MaxAzria/Miley Cyrus at Wal-Mart
Back to school shopping is a whole lot more affordable, thanks to Miley Cyrus. Though, if you’re parenting a teen who’s obsessed with the pop icon, you’ve probably paid your dues. The current Wal-Mart collection (which also is credited to Max Azria) includes leopard leggings and tie-dye tank tops, and nearly everything is under $10.
Eek! By Eugenia Kim (at Urban Outfitters)
Okay, so it may not be dirt cheap. But Kim’s set of hats are super cute and probably worth it. The stylish head gear goes for $28 to $48. We think the $38 grey and purple Belt Beret fits in well with the latest fall trends.
Ana Sui at Target
There’s been a lot of buzz about Ana Sui’s collab with Target, as it’s inspired by the CW’s wildly popular “Gossip Girl” series. We haven’t gotten a good look at the clothes yet, but if the TV show’s any indicators, it’s going to be fairly fab. Look out for it in September, and make sure to get to the store ASAP, because it’ll only last through October 17th.
Rachel Rachel Roy at Macy’s
Okay, so maybe you’re not going to dish out $100 for a handbag. However, for your more pristine clothing purchases, Rachel Roy’s diffusion line is a reasonably-priced option. Plus, it’s a lot of fun - spunky, youthful, and just a touch of attitude. (Prices will range from $59 all the way up to $109.) Check out this cute draped sleeve tee for $59.
Rachel Roy’s Lower-Priced Line Debuts at Macy’s
What: Nearly four months after word spread that designer Rachel Roy was creating a diffusion line for Macy’s, the eponymous collection has finally debuted online. Although the full line of apparel, footwear, and accessories isn’t set to be released in stores until the end of August, eight pieces from the collection are already for sale online—including the Chain Tee ($59), the Origami Dress ($109), and the Brushstroke Print Dress ($99).
What They Say:
“The collection includes some modern dresses and chic tops. All of the pieces look like they are relatively easy to wear and they all have a slick, modern edge.”
What We Say: Rachel Roy is known for designing classy clothes for women of all shapes and sizes, which is one reason why so much anticipation has been building around the debut of her first diffusion line. The real question is whether or not her line can help Macy’s bottomline.
My Macy’s Program: Trying to Lure You Back
What: Remember two years ago when Macy’s bought what seemed like every department store that ever existed, changed the store’s names to Macy’s, and angered a ton of local shoppers? Well, apparently, Macy’s, two years later and as a part of its recent cutbacks, is going to focus more on the needs of these local markets via their My Macy’s program.
From Macys.com: The initiative called “My Macy’s” was developed over the past year based on customer research, as well as input from Macy’s store managers, senior division executives, merchandise vendors and industry experts. Its goal is to accelerate sales growth in existing locations by ensuring that core customers surrounding each Macy’s store find merchandise assortments, size ranges, marketing programs and shopping experiences that are custom-tailored to their needs.
What We Say: This is a classic example of a business not understanding its customer. Two years ago, Macy’s bought the beloved Midwestern department store Marshall Fields and proceed to stamp out all of the things (with the exception of the Franco Mints) that made the department store a Midwestern institution, including its name. Shoppers responded by protesting and Macy’s responded by not listening to the customers. The result? Sales dropped significantly through out the Upper Midwest.
Fast forward to 2009, and now pretty much every Macy store is underperforming. My Macy’s is an attempt to reach out to local shoppers. The real question is, do you care?
The Budget Fashionista’s Weekly Retail Closing Report
Retailers have taken a lot of hard hits lately, and while some are getting back on their feet after the holiday slump, others are, well, giving up.
The Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, owner of DKNY, Calvin Klein, and other clothing brands, will close 175 stores; this is a big blow to the outlet malls of the country. But Van Heusen isn’t alone. Here’s a wrap-up of the latest store closures… hint: there’s a liquidation sale coming to a store near you.
Steve & Barry’s (where will Sarah Jessica Parker’s “fashion you can afford to love line”, BITTEN, go?)
Cub Libby Lu (Saks is letting go of this retailer, aimed at fashion-savvy young girls, so parents have lots of great deals to pounce on)
Others retailers closing stores…
Mervyn’s
Filene’s Basement
Ann Taylor (117 stores)
Gap Inc (85)
Foot Locker (140)
Dillard’s (26)
Sigrid Olsen (54)
Pacific Sunwear (153 demo stores)
Macy’s (11)
Fashion Bug (150)
Cache (23)
JC Penney may be scaling back soon, too.
Have a tip on a store closing? Click here to send us your tips
Staying Pretty in an Ugly Economy
- Shoppers in Los Angeles, St. Louis, and other parts of the US can look forward to huge clearance sales at Macy’s; TheFashionBomb.com reports that the retail giant is about to shut down its most anemic stores, eleven in all. Macy’s is the most recent casualty of the wobbly economy, which even has the fashion industry on edge. According to Hadley Freeman of Style.com, upscale boutiques are cutting costs by trading in their fashionable shopping bags for plain paper bags.
- The celebs aren’t immune to the bad news either, it seems, dressing down for the “People’s Choice Awards” last night. Our favorite fuggers had a few snarky things to say about that.
- But cheer up! As we’ve come to learn, economic woes are coupled with cheap clothes! “Designer Ella” helps us get the New Year off to a fashion-forward start with a handful of killer sales at retailers ranging from Saks 5th Avenue to Shoes.com. And if you can’t buy it, charge it in style with a Roberto Cavalli credit card!
- In these cold economic times, we’re all looking for a little warmth. Thankfully, the Budget Babe has bundled up some great tips on how to bundle up this winter.
- And remember, today’s your last day to take an extra 20% off clearance items at SmartBargains.com!
Macys Overcharges Some Shoppers During the Holiday Season
What: On December 20th, some Macy’s shoppers who used a debit card may have been overcharged for purchases.
The 411: From CNN Money: A Macy’s spokesman said Friday that customers at some stores in its central and eastern divisions may have had multiple debits made to their checking accounts on Saturday, Dec. 20…Macy’s would not reveal how many customers were overcharged, saying only that the glitch affected “less than one-half of 1% of transactions” that took place between 1 and 2:45 p.m.
What We Say: Always check your bank and credit card statements. Always. Incidents like this is one of the reasons we don’t always like paying with debit cards (preferring cash and, as a distance second, a low interest rate credit card). If you think you were overcharged faxing their statement to Macy’s, at (513) 573-2433, with their account number blacked out, to the attention of “Third Party Credit.”
HoliDAILY Contest #25: Win One of Five $20 Macy’s Gift Cards!
From now until Dec. 31st, Kathyrn and the gang at TBF will be giving away daily prizes to lucky TBF winners. Check back everyday at 9am to enter.
At midnight, five lucky TBF readers will win this prize, from Macy’s.
The Prize: A $20 Macy’s Gift Card
Why you want this: The holidays probably have you tapped out, so just in case Santa completely ignores all those subtle hints you’ve been giving (like, say, that catalog page taped to the bathroom mirror), we’re thinking a $20 gift card to Macy’s could help you pick up something you REALLY wanted. (A side note: right now Macy’s is donating $1 to the Make A Wish Foundation for every letter to Santa dropped off at their stores, so we’re all about supporting that holiday spirit!).
To Enter this Contest, Tell Us Why You Shop at Macy’s in the Comment Section Below
The Rules
- no purchase necessary
- contest ends the day of the posting at 11:59pm
- must comment below in order to enter this contest
- must be a US citizen.
- recipient is responsible for any federal, state or local taxes associated with the prize package
- must respond within 72 hours (3 days) or prize will be given to another entrant
Yesterday’s Winner
Congratulations berrybinx on winning the Eco-Me Home Kit in yesterday’s Holidaily Giveaway!
Women’s Fall Coat Trends
Fall is the time to set aside that bathing suit (which many of us are not that sorry to see go) and start thinking about outerwear to fend of the impending chill. If last year’s coat needs to be retired, or if you just need something new to help you face all that cold weather ahead, there are plenty of budget options you can pick up now. Some of our fave outerwear trends for the season, and where to get them for less:
The Peacoat: We love the peacoat because it’s a classic that will last and last. Go for traditional navy, camel or black for a timeless version, or update with a hot color like red or a short cut to make it current.
Women’s Short Peacoat, $69.50, Old Navy
Hydraulic Peacoat with Epaulets, on sale $93.75, Macy’s
Merona Swing Peacoat in Plaid, $49.99, Target
The Swing Coat: The swing coat has been coming on strong for the last year or so as a jacket and outerwear option, and we like how flattering the silouette is to just about everyone. Just be sure to keep the bottom half lean when you wear it, lest you look like a large bell rather than the super chic woman you really are.
Women’s Pique Wool Blend Coat, $89, Old Navy
Wool Swing Coat, $109, Newport News
The Leather Jacket: The leather jacket is another classic, but the most modern way to wear it is in a short, close fitting cut or in a sleek belted trench (no bulky shapeless overcoats this year, please).
a.n.a Faux Leather 4-Pocket Scuba Jacket, on sale $89.99, JC Penney
Leather Trench Coat, on sale $80, Newport News
The Trench Coat: The trench is another classic we’re always talking about here at TBF—we love how it’s updated right now with color and modern details, like the berry trench and banded bottom versions here, which are great for dressier occasions.
Mossimo Black Satin Trench, $39.99, Target
Fashion Trend Alert: Tie-Neck Blouses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
In the past, only certain types of women have been able to truly pull off menswear , Katharine Hepburn among them. Right now though, aspects of menswear are appearing all over, giving everyone the opportunity to be a little androgynous. But don’t think of the 1980’s working woman blouse with the limp, sad-looking bow at the neck when you picture this trend. This year’s tie-neck blouse has sharper lines, comes in a variety of fabrics, and it doesn’t have to be worn with a business suit.
The button down, pseudo men’s tie: Fitted tie neck shirt, GAP, $32.99
The Technicolor checkered billowy tie: Printed tie-neck shirt, Old Navy, $15.00
The satin, knotted tie: City Style Wide Tie Satin blouse, NY and Company, $24.46.
The sheer, sparkly long tie: Black tie striped chiffon tie-neck blouse, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent, Bluefly.com, $55.00.
The boldly printed tie: JM Collection Tie-Neck Printed Charmeuse Blouse, Macys.com, $44.00.
The fuchsia bow tie: Nicole by Nicole Miller tie-neck top, JCPenney.com, $33.60.
What to Buy for Fall: Macy’s
Macy’s is where to head when you want stylish but not super-trendy items of decent quality, on a budget. We think all these picks (sorted by trend) will serve you well through fall and into winter, but if we only had to pick one? Those to-die-for Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Mary Janes—as a matter of fact, we’re counting out the stash from our summer change jar as we speak . . .
The Mary Jane: Unlisted by Kenneth Cole “Club Style” Mary Jane Pump, $49
Jewel Tones and Shine: Studio M Short Sleeve Charmeuse Blouse, $69
Edgy Black: INC International Concepts Belted Ponte Biker Jacket, $129 (but remember Kathryn’s advice— INC is one brand that will always go on sale)
Tweed: Style & Co. Three Button Dot Tweed Pants, on sale $29.40
Pencil Skirt: Alfani Belted Pencil Skirt, $69
Budget Fashion Advice: Finding the RightFit Pants
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I’m a teacher & I’m looking for new pants to wear for work. I want longer pants so I can wear heels with them (I’m also 5’10”) & I’m having trouble finding pants that I like. Do you have suggestions on the best places to buy some good quality work pants on a teacher’s budget?
Answer: It’s always hard to find great fitting pants, but there’s a few options out there. We’re fans of the RightFit brand of pants at Lane Bryant and coming this fall, Fashion Bug stores. The system, developed after scanning over 14,000 women nationwide and compiling the data to get the 411 on how to make our pants fit better. The line features three fit categories based on individual body shape and size — not just the size that fits your largest body part. A Yellow body type is straight from the waist through the hips (us flat bootie girls), Red fit are slightly curved from the waist to the hips (those of us stuck in the middle), and a Blue body type has a small waist and is fullest at the hips (aka for those of us with A LOT of extra junk in our trunks). And, this is what we really love—most of the pants are well under $50.
Other options include the Express Editor pants, which run under $50 (less if you have a coupon or catch them on sale) and also have a pretty good fit, and pants by the INC line at Macys, which are crazy expensive full priced, but can drop below $30 once they hit the sales racks.
Five Fashion Brands you Should NEVER EVER Pay Full Price For!
We prefer not to pay full price if at all possible, but there are some brands that you should never ever pay full price for—because you don’t have to. Here are five:
1. Jones New York. JNY tends to go on sale faster than other mid-range women’s career wear. I suspect, although it’s not confirmed, that it’s because they produce a lot of volume and the fact that stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, where the line tends to be sold, aren’t buying as much stock as before due to customers reducing their spending.
2. Nine West. DO NOT EVER, EVER pay full price or even sale price for this line without first checking out your local Filene’s Basement. You can often find the same styles that are currently full price in department stores for 40-50% less at your Filene’s basement.
3. Rock and Republic, Hudson, and Paige Premium Denim. All of these overpriced jeans lines can be found at your local Filene’s Basement, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls for more than 50% off, sometimes even less.
4. Calvin Klein (bridge line). For some reason Calvin’s bridge line, both plus and misses, is always on sale. In the case of department stores, wait 3 to 4 weeks and you can find the line on sale at your local Macy’s for 30 to 40% off retail. If you’re plus size, you’re in even more luck as the line struggles to be a success and you can find discounts of up to 60% off.
5. INC We like the INC line at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. We really like the line. But there’s no way we’re going to pay $99.00 for a pair of pants from the line, especially when we can find it for 50% off (plus a 20% off Macy’s coupon, holla!) if we just wait 2 to 3 weeks.
Pictured: Don’t pay full price for this Nine West Swirl Ribbon Dress ($134) until you’ve checked out Filene’s Basement . . .
Do you have other fashion brands you regularly find for well under full price? Tell us more on the TBF forum.
Five Fashion Brands You Should NEVER EVER Pay Full Price For!
We prefer not to pay full price if at all possible, but there are some brands that you should never ever pay full price for—because you don’t have to. Here are five:
1. Jones New York. JNY tends to go on sale faster than other mid-range women’s career wear. I suspect, although it’s not confirmed, that it’s because they produce a lot of volume and the fact that stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, where the line tends to be sold, aren’t buying as much stock as before due to customers reducing their spending.
2. Nine West. DO NOT EVER, EVER pay full price or even sale price for this line without first checking out your local Filene’s Basement. You can often find the same styles that are currently full price in department stores for 40-50% less at your Filene’s basement.
3. Rock and Republic, Hudson, and Paige Premium Denim. All of these overpriced jeans lines can be found at your local Filene’s Basement, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls for more than 50% off, sometimes even less.
4. Calvin Klein (bridge line). For some reason Calvin’s bridge line, both plus and misses, is always on sale. In the case of department stores, wait 3 to 4 weeks and you can find the line on sale at your local Macy’s for 30 to 40% off retail. If you’re plus size, you’re in even more luck as the line struggles to be a success and you can find discounts of up to 60% off.
5. INC We like the INC line at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. We really like the line. But there’s no way we’re going to pay $99.00 for a pair of pants from the line, especially when we can find it for 50% off (plus a 20% off Macy’s coupon, holla!) if we just wait 2 to 3 weeks.
Pictured: Don’t pay full price for this Nine West Swirl Ribbon Dress ($134) until you’ve checked out Filene’s Basement . . .
Summer Fashion: Colored Denim
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Colored denim is cycling back to the top of the trend heap.
What We Say: More than a year ago colored denim (a la 1985) started to make the fashion rounds. It’s popularity had been marginal on the whole (meaning it didn’t quite make any waves between the coasts) and we were pretty much ready to write it off completely, but a recent resurgence has us taking a second look. We’re seeing lots of teal blue, red, and yellow denim, and after all those primary colored dresses slipping into a pair of jeans is kind of a welcome change, if you ask us. The best news? If you picked up a pair last year and they’ve been sitting in your closet every since, all you have to do to be on trend is pull ‘em out and slip ‘em on. Priceless.
What? You don’t know what to slip ‘em on with? When in doubt, keep it simple—the color is statement enough. Think neutral tee or tank (or throw in a top with some horizontal stripes —like this henley—if you want to have a little more fun), with some wedge sandals or ballet flats, and maybe a chunky necklace if you want to dress things up a bit . . .
Some colored denim picks we’re digging, for less:
Straight Leg Jeans, on sale $19.99, LaRedoute
Style & Co. Petite Colored Five Pocket Jean, on sale $19.99, Macy’s
Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Jean, $48.50, Delia’s (buy one, get one half off)
Summer Fashion Trend: The White Dress
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: The Rise of the White Dress
What We Say: Okay, okay, we get it already! Everywhere you turn right now—and we do mean everywhere—you will find the white dress, on everyone from Jessica Simpson to Halle Berry. White dresses of all types, but primarily white sundresses —from maxi to mini, empire waisted to shift to tank to bubble skirt, you name it. Truly, there’s nothing better to show off that golden glow (natural or otherwise), and it’s a super easy option from daytime errand-running to a casual evening out. Oh, and it goes with everything, meaning that accessorizing is even more fun than usual.
Are you getting the idea that we like this trend? Yup, it’s true. So much so that we’ve picked some budget options for you to try out—all you have to do is add some colorful flip flops or wedge sandals (orange and red seem to be the, er, hot colors to pair with white), maybe a gold cuff or bangles, big sunglasses, and a slouchy neutral hobo, and you’re good to go.
American Rag Smocked Flounce-Hem Dress, on sale $36.75, Macy’s
Tiered Babydoll Mini Dress, $24.80, Forever21
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Empire Waist Dress with Tie, $29.99
Xhilaration Scoopneck Swiss Dot Dress, $19.99 at Target
Naomi Campbell: Look For Less
We’d never recommend using a cellphone as a weapon nor can we recommend wearing all white while digging in the garden (we’re pretty sure Naomi doesn’t do her own laundry). That being said, we love the simple fresh look Naomi Campbell sports for this photo op, which reminds us of how easy it is to look great without all the bells and whistles. And the power of a simple bright white tee. If you’re feeling it (and have a good supply of bleach at the ready), we’ve picked some pieces to help you along:
INC International Concepts Skinny Pants, on sale $33.18, Macy’s
Stretch Round Neck Tee, $4.80, Forever21
East5th “Kenna��? Sandal, on sale $22.99, JC Penney
Multi-Stone Necklace, $6.99, Old Navy
Sex and the City Movie Trend: White and Gold
We may not have been on board with the whole white and gold thing were it anyone else, but if both Carrie AND Samantha are doing it, then I guess we just have to give in. Actually, crisp white is the epitome of summer chic, and accents of gold follow naturally with the season’s “we love every metallic and will wear them all as neutrals��? mentality. Okay, the more we think about it, the more we like it.
How to do it the Sex and the City Way—sophisticated and body-conscious, of course. We love this sleeveless AGB Eyelet Sheath Dress, $68 at Macy’s. Wear it with these Jessica Bennett Fauna Leather Platforms, $59.95, DSW, and be fabulous.
Spring 2007 Fashion Week Day 5: Vivienne Westwood + Nine West = Not So Cheap Fashion
I love Vivienne Westwood, so when I heard that the women who some credit with inventing punk was teaming up with Nine West to premiere a line of lower priced (but certainly not cheap) shoes I was thrilled. The shoes, ranging in price from $160 to $350 a pair, will be available at selection Nine West stores. It’s an effort by Nine West to pump up it’s sales and image after years of dismal sales. Unfortunately, the collection will only be available for four weeks.
Viv will be in NYC today, at Macy’s Herald Square, chatting up the line. It’s suppose to be a consumer event, but of course, only the folks at Vogue, Elle and other people who would normal never set foot in a Macy’s store will be invited.
From Fashion Week Daily
Vivienne Westwood will be making a personal appearance at Macy’s Herald Square on September 12 to promote her new line of shoes designed in collaboration with Nine West. Vogue and Macy’s have sent out invitations to attend what is being billed as a primarily consumer-driven event, but look for a healthy sprinkling of the industry to be on hand for the Q&A session that will be led by Mary Alice Stephenson.
I will definitely be in attendance.
Macy’s Name Changes: Good Bye Marshall Fields, Hello Mediocrity
Bye, Bye Hecht….
Sayonara Marshall Field’s….
Peace out Lazarus….
Today, September 9, 2006, is the day that pretty much every department store in America becomes a Macy’s.
Even though we signed petitions (keepitfields.org collected close to 60,000, yes 60,000 names), that wasn’t good enough for the corporate heads. According to a fashion industry friend of this blog, Macy’s “researched” the names on the petitions and found that the people on the list were “old” (I’m 30) and we all know that “old” people don’t shop. They sit around eating creamed corn, playing scrabble, and ordering the entire spring collection of the Suzanne Somers line on QVC, letting those “crazy kids” deal with all that fashion babaloo.
A couple of thoughts….
1. Macy’s and Marshall Field’s are not the same place. I grew up in the Midwest, in a city that had both a Macy’s and a Marshall Field’s. Fields is more on par with Bloomingdales than Macy’s.
2. Target is better than Macy’s. Not only are the products better designed, less expensive, and come with a more flexible return policy (90 days), Target is a lot more tech savvy than Macy’s. Try returning something you bought online to a local Macy’s and you’ll see the difference. Apparently, I’m not the only one who thinks so…. Target has been growing at a steady pace, while Macy’s (and department stores in general) have been struggling.
3. People who live in NYC don’t like Macy’s. Every New Yorker I know avoids the Macy’s Herald Square location like the plague and rarely have anything positive to say about the store. While, every Chicagoian (sp?) I know, has fond memories of shopping at the State Street Marshall Field’s, especially during the christmas season.
4. Macy’s is better than Hecht. I’ve been to quite a few Hecht and I must say that the boys at Federated Department Stores was on the money changing this one over to a Macy’s.
For more on the good fight—head to fieldsfanschicago.org
Labor Day Weekend Sales
THESE SALES HAVE ENDED
In Store Sales
Bloomingdales—Big Brown Sale now thru Sept 4th. Up to 25% clothings for the entire family. Plus major deals on things for the home.
Macys—Up to 50% off store wide (also online as well)
Parisian- $10 off $50 in Denim.
Sears—Buy one, Get one free shoe sale.
JC Penney’s—Biggest Home Sale of the year (plus save on rings, earrings, and other accessories.
Chelsea Premium Outlets—Labor Day Weekend Sale
Barney’s—The Barney’s Warehouse Sale continues until Sept. 4th
Online Sales
Bluefly.com—“Semi-Annual Bluesale - Now up to 75% off. Our biggest sale of the season!”Torrid.com—50% off Regular Price at the Torrid.com Clearance
Nordstrom.com—Shoe Clearance, up to 33% off
Gap.com—Free shipping on purchases of $100 or more at gap.com!. Plus $5 shipping for purchases under $100, use coupon code: TAKEFIVE.
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