by Stephanie Berenbaum – May 9th, 2012

The Stealth Chic Of An Old Standby

Ok, let’s face it. You probably never thought Land’s End was cool, but that’s about to change.  That’s right: we’re talking about the mail order retailer you probably last shopped at for a pea-coat in middle school.  And, shocking but true: Land’s End is actually full of fantastic Fab & Fru Fashion Finds!

No, Really…

Just hear me out on this one.  A lot of brands put their hipness right out there for you to see.  Not Land’s End – they go to great lengths to put their models in the worst colors and combinations.   They make you work to find the chic.  But if you dig deeper, we swear there is a treasure trove of affordable fashion just waiting to be found…even for YOU, the stylish, urban shopper!

Our discovery happened as most do – in the middle of the night surfing the internet.  Here is the 411 on finding Fab & Fru fashion at Land’s End:

Look Beyond The Featured Color

Land’s End will often feature a piece of clothing in a color you might not exactly want to wear.  Say, a color like “Pink Begonia”.  If you are anything like us, grey is just about one of the brightest day to day colors you wear.   The secret is that Land’s End has many pieces in simple, classic shapes that actually look modern in a black or grey.  You just need to take a minute and scroll to hit fashion gold!  For example….

Dress(es) For Success

We’ve been looking for dresses to wear to work, and never thought we’d find anything sleek at Land’s End.  The first key is not to get put off by the sea of florals and plaids.  So we channeled Agatha Christie and discovered some Fab picks that look like they came from J. Crew or Banana Republic – but for $50 or $60 bucks! One of our favorites is the Ponte Cowlneck Dress, shown here – for only $59.99!

Off Season Shopping Opportunity -

Just like we tell you to buy air conditioners in winter, we’re telling you to Buy Your Down Coats Now!  Off-season shopping can save you a bundle.  Enter Land’s End – known for their quality outerwear.  Again, they are tricky, and they try to throw you off with a color you might not normally buy.  For example, they feature the magenta Diamond Down Coat – and I don’t even look twice.  But take a minute to scroll and it turns out they also have it in simple black (featured here)- and for $65 you are a rock star! Tell your friends it’s Prada – they’ll never know the difference.  Or if you want to be even cooler tell them “Land’s End” but say it like you mean it.

Are You Down With NQP?

Think Land’s End can’t hold any more surprises for you?  Our fave Fab & Fru find is the Not Quite Perfect Department – those in the know call it “NQP”.  These clothes are slightly imperfect – in most cases it is nothing you would never notice! The best part – even the NQP items are all FULLY RETURNABLE – meaning you won’t waste money chancing it on final sale items.  Plus they’ve got a huge selection of massively marked down kids coats!

Even in a crap economy, we feel like shopping just got fun again!

by Alexandra Pauline – April 16, 2012

A Guide to Second Hand Designer Deals

Trendsetting is a full time job.  So, if you’re a bohemian beauty looking for a classic a clutch or a hint of 70′s flair, Fab & Fru’s 2012 Guide to Vintage Shopping has the TOP nationwide hot spots for finding that one of a kind, diamond in the rough, for a fraction of the original price!

Brooklyn or Bust

While Manhattan may have the monopoly on vintage haute couture, like the selective designer styles found at Resurrection in Soho, Brooklyn is definitely the place for second hand treasures at more affordable prices…

Brooklyn local Alexandra Citrin says Greenpoint’s hidden Coral Thrift Store is her all time favorite place to shop.  Packed with 90′s Calvin Klein dresses, Ferragamo heels, and perfectly broken in leather cross body bags, the only thing that could make this place better is the fact that – YES – everything is priced around $20!  But don’t stop there… nearby Williamsburg is packed with vintage clothing shops, and Stella Dallas is our Fab & Fru fave!

Chanel in Chicago

McShane’s Exchange in Lincoln Park is one of the top resale boutiques in the Midwest.  Their website confirms that they reject labels like H&M and even Chico’s and are committed to only stocking high-end brands like St. John and Gucci.

If you’re looking to splurge on a more red-carpet ready look, check out Decollage in the West Loop.  This store’s accessories are just as decadent as their separates.  From Valentino to Christian Louboutin, you’ll be in excellent designer hands.  Though the average price tag of $200 and up for the really exceptional couture pieces may sound high, the quality of these one of a kind FINDS, may just make it worth the investment.

by Alexandra Pauline – March 28, 2012

Runway Looks for Less

Fab & Fru was inspired by Fashion Week – and there are plenty of penny pinching ways to rock Spring’s prêt-a-porter looks!  - We’ll have you runway ready in no time – even if you’re just running to work or to pick up your kids…

The Anorak

A spring coat is a key item in any wardrobe, and the Anorak is a fresh take on a once masculine style. Though Jason Wu and Tommy Hillfiger made the Anorak a designer breakout on the runway, check out this tan one from Buffalo by David Bitton at Nordstrom for only $98!

Tribal Prints

Interwoven colors, mixed and matched through the beauty of intricate design, are the perfect way to make a statement this spring.  So don’t be shy – make a tribal printed garment a staple of your new wardrobe!  Donna Karan made them the center of her show this year – if you’re going for a similar look but want to tone it down, try mixing a printed tribal top with a solid bottom.

Peplum Skirts and Dresses

Did you love Tina Fey and Michelle Williams peplum style at this year’s Oscars?  Now it’s your turn to rock this award winning style.  Seen all over the runway from Tom Ford to Thakoon, this retro look has been totally revamped for 2012.  It not only adds ladylike flair, but it also cinches your waist and shows off your curves.  If you want to ease into this hot new look check out pretty peplum LBD by Calvin Klein for $75.99!

by Alexandra Pauline – March 5, 2012

Save on Your Next Shopping Spree

Starting to get spring shopping fever?  Well, we have some Fab & Fru tips to help wake you out of your shopping hibernation AND keep you on top of some of the most savvy deals year round!

Know When to Shop the Discount Rack

Knowing WHEN to shop is one of the easiest ways to save.  Most retail stores follow a set weekly schedule for when they move items to the sale rack – thus making the following day your PRIME TIME to shop.  Department stores are typically known for doing their markdowns on Tuesday nights before closing, which means Wednesday morning is the time to find the best selection on the latest deals.  Though this might be the first time you’re hearing about the markdown schedule, it’s really NO secret.  If you want to find out when to let your fashionista ferocity strike, all you have to do is ask the manager of your favorite store!

Get Smart About Sales Tax

With sales tax hovering close to 10% in cities like Chicago, Los Angels and Seattle, the price we end up paying at checkout is always more than expected.  And while we can’t avoid paying sales tax on every purchase we make, PLANNING AHEAD for a big shopping spree is a saving tip from the masters.

Many states offer a Free Tax Weekend once or twice a year when they suspend sales tax on clothes and other purchases under a certain price point.  Connecticut, for example, features a whole free tax week from August 21^st-27^th on clothes and shoes under $300.

Also keep in mind….. If you live near the border of a state or town with a more favorable sales tax than your city, take a road trip when it comes time to stock up.  For example, NYC dwellers, before your kids head back-to-school, head over to New Jersey where there is  ZERO sales taxes on clothes!  Click here for more information on state and city tax rates near you!

Follow Facebook & Twitter for Killer Deals

If you want to know about the latest online and in shop sales, follow your favorite stores via their social networking portals.  Many top brands now only offer insider deals, sales and giveaways to their Twitter followers and Facebook friends.  These tips are often NOT advertised anywhere else – so get with the times and SAVE!

by Stephanie Berenbaum – February 29, 2012

Personal Shopper – Sans Price Tag!

The luxury of having a personal shopper has always been reserved for the rich and famous.  So you can imagine my delight when I discovered that J. Crew offers their own personal shopping service – FOR FREE!  You can take advantage of this service online, over the phone or in-store — which is what I did yesterday….

I had the good fortune of meeting Max – my new J. Crew personal shopper – who shared some insider tips on the very Fab & Fru side of J Crew.  In addition, he also took the time to show me the proper way to roll a shirt sleeve and tuck the tail of an extra long belt.  Needless to say, I’m in love!  Not only did Max help me find some classic staples that look and feel great, he helped me find affordable pieces that fit my my budget constraints.

Check out my Fab & Fru FINDS that are so versatile, I can wear them all year round!

No. 2 Pencil Skirts

This skirt is so flattering I felt like I lost five pounds the second I put it on.  But the most FAB part of all – the fabric options.   As I tried on this little number in the “Sovereign Paisley” fabric, Max told me that this elegant print actually comes from famous Italian mill Ratti – who, by the way, also produces designs for Prada!  Thankfully, at $148 this day-into-night piece comes without the Prada price tag!

Manolo Blahnik for J. Crew?

Have you heard about this one…?! Coming in fall, this super high-end, famed designer is teaming up with J. Crew to produce a line of heels.   Now I’m not saying they’ll be cheap, but they will be cheap-er than Manolo’s original line.  Why am I mentioning it now – other than it’s time to start saving?   Because if you sign up for  a J. Crew personal shopper, you get sneak peaks and early access to new products – so you can bet I will be speed dialing Max to get a look-see at these bad boys!

Cashmere Tees

J. Crew Cashmere Tees are one (well, two) of my year-round, must-have Fab & Fru items.  Get one in long ($158) and short ($128) sleeve – you won’t regret the investment. This wardrobe workhorse, made from  high quality cashmere, is usually seen at much higher price points (believe me, cheap Cashmere is just not worth it). Give a warm welcome to the most versatile piece in your closet!

by Brandi Savitt – February 15, 2012

6 Tips to Preserve Your Favorite Denim

Six months ago, I invested in a pricey pair of dark denim jeans that I absolutely love.  I thought I was doing everything right when it came to caring for them.  I turned them inside out in the wash to help preserve the color.  I washed them in cold, and I usually – but not always – hung them up to dry.  And while there’s still some life left in them, sadly my favorite pair of jeans has seen better days…

You want to know the worst part?  I only bought one pair, and now I can’t seem to find the same style in my size…anywhere!  So, in effort to stretch out the life of my bootcut bad boys, I thought it was time to get educated on the best way to care for denim!

Stop Washing Your Jeans

It doesn’t matter who you ask, all experts say that washing your jeans wears them out way more than wearing them.  In 2010, Carl Chiara, Design Director of Premium Brands at Levi’s, told The Wall Street Journal that throwing your jeans in the washing machine agitates the cotton in the fabric causing it to ‘bloom’ and then tighten up and shorten the fibers.  In fact, Chiara is so serious about preserving his personal denim wardrobe, he only officially washes (or should I say soaks) each pair of jeans in the bathtub every six months.  He fills the tub up with cold water and Dr. Bronner’s soap, and then soaks each pair lying flat for 20 minutes.  Chiara never scrubs the fabric, and after rinsing, he hangs his jeans up by the belt hooks, and let’s them air dry.

–This sixth month rule may sound disgusting and a little extreme for us laundry obsessed ladies.  Of course, these are not the care instructions listed on the Levi’s label, but do take note…  If you want to make your jeans last longer, washing them less is the answer!

Spot Clean & Steam

Keep in mind, Chiara does not suggest that you walk around wearing filthy jeans either!  When you take your jeans off at night do a little spot cleaning to remove any stains or dirt.  Chiara likes to use a damp cloth with a cleaning agent like Windex to blot out the dirt, but a drop of Woolite or Dr. Bronner’s will do the trick too.  Avoid using any chemicals if cleaning up any sensitive areas (if you know what I mean)…

After cleaning any stains, hang your jeans on by the belt hooks (to help keep the shape) in the bathroom while you take a shower.  The steam will help to freshen and restore the shape to the fabric while steaming out creases and wrinkles.

by Stephanie Berenbaum – February 9, 2012

February Fashion For You!

Winter Blahs getting you down? There are some truly chic treasures – majorly marked down – that you need to check out before dropping serious cash on new clothes.  So check out our favorite frugal finds…as well as one well-worth it splurge!

Arden B. – Perfect Poncho

Arden B. is always a treasure trove of frugal finds.  I bought this Missoni inspired poncho at full price ($59.99) a few months ago – and just noticed it is on “final sale” for only $29.99!  Seriously I have gotten more compliments on this piece than on others that cost much more – it’s the perfect piece to throw on and feel chic in a hurry – and comes with a detachable cowl neck to swtich up your looks!

J. Crew – Top Notch Turtleneck

J. Crew is always my favorite stop for sweaters.  Usually fabulous – and not very frugal.  So I was thrilled to find a “final sale” on their Cambridge Cable Turtleneck - in black!  So often great markdowns are on crazy colors (sorry, lemon ice just doesn’t work on me!) that I jump at the chance to buy basic black – especially a classic piece like this for only $49.99!

Banana Republic – Best Baubles

I continue to find the best Fab & Fu accessories in the sale bin at Banana Republic – it is always worth the time to sort through those bins at the checkout counter – I inevitabily find treasures….such as these elegant “Icicle” earrings – reduced from —- to only $12.99!

Target – Kick-Ass Cardigan

I practically live in open cardigans from Target – I throw them on and go, go, go.  But little did I know their Mossimo Drape Cardigan was on massive sale – in many colors! At a reduction from $29.99 to $10.48 – well, how Fab & Fru is that?!

Our Favorite Denim SPLURGE

As we like to say, half of being fabulous and frugal is just being Fabulous!  And we all know you skimp in some areas and splurge in others.  One splurge which I swear by?  My favorite J Brand high waisted “Sasha” Jeans. Yes, they cost around $200 (depends pn the wash) and yes, in my opinion, worth every last penny.  Take it from me – a women who has short legs, two kids and can never find jeans that fit and flatter – these are my new “non-negotiable” find.  And I swear when I wear them with my Arden B. poncho (above) even I feel like I am rocking Missoni!

by Stephanie Berenbaum – January 26, 2012

One Night Only

Last weekend,  I was at a tres chic friend’s bday party, and the Birthday Girl was wearing a fantastic cocktail dress.  Believe me, it looked very fabulous – and not at all frugal.  So, of course, I had to ask where she got this piece of couture.  My fashionable friend immediately replied, “Rent the Runway!”  Though we’ve mentioned this online service before, I myself wasn’t a member.  But I was so impressed with my friend’s look, that I went directly home from the party, signed up and discovered a whole world of Fab & Fru fashion right at my fingertips!  

What is Rent the Runway?

Rent the Runway lets you rent (you probably figured that out) designer fashion for a fraction of what it would cost you to buy it.  We mean really a fraction – like up to 90% less.  YUM!  And while I have visited actual stores that rent fashion, I have never used an online service and was curious…

How It Works….

I was a little skeptical about renting clothing online – until I read the details.  Here’s the scoop – at Rent the Runway,  you work with fit specialists to determine the best dress for you — and they even send you a 2nd size for free!  What sealed the deal for me is – if  it doesn’t fit – you don’t pay (less the cost of shipping)!  The site boasts a 99% success rate, which is WAY higher than my typical success rate when shopping for dresses live.  Another advantage – you can rent your WHOLE look from them – including Spanx, handbags and jewelry!

Fashion Emergency!

I admit it, I am a procrastinator.  Whether you put things off ’til the last minute like I do – or you get a fabulous last minute invitation to the Oscars – you are in luck.  Rent the Runway ships same day in NYC and overnight to the rest of nation to help you avert a fashion emergency!

by Brandi Savitt – December 05, 2011

Light Up Your Wardrobe This Season

Looking for a way to dress up your holiday party look without spending your entire gift budget on clothes for yourself?  Well, supermodel and runway coach for the Miss Universe Organization, Lu Sierra has some Fab & Fru tips that will not only add a bit of glam to your winter wardrobe, her chic yet affordable suggestions will get heads turning in YOUR direction this holiday season!

Vintage Is Your Best Friend

While it’s no secret that shopping at vintage stores for designer looks for less is a Fab & Fru must, Lu reminds us all that “shopping vintage is also a fashion diva’s way to give back to Mother Earth”.   It’s the ultimate way to recycle while paying tribute to style through the ages! And like all of the best money saving tips, Lu wants you to get creative when putting together your holiday look.  While shopping at her favorite vintage shop, Stella Dallas, in Brooklyn, Lu found an adorable black dress for $30, and to add some extra holiday glam, she bought a fun crinoline skirt to wear underneath – for just $15 bucks!

Shop the Men’s Department

That’s right, Lu wants us ladies to hit the sales racks in the men’s department to find some serious steals. Generally speaking, men’s clothes simply cost less than women’s designer looks, and the sales are to die for.  Lu was shopping for a white suit, and everything she liked at the department store was upwards of $1,600!  But then she walked into Zara’s men’s department, and found just what she was looking for for $175!

If you’re a tall lady like Lu, and love the tailored look, men’s clothes are a great fit.  The waist sits lower, the sleeves are typically longer, and the wider shoulder will definitely add some drama to your suited look while accentuating your waist.  One of Lu’s signature looks is to tie a man’s neck tie into a bow around her neck, and either wear something low cut (or nothing at all) underneath her suit jacket.  Super glamorous, yet super simple.

Lu insists that the men’s department has something for women of all shapes, sizes and style.  Especially when buying button down shirts, Lu says that she has not spent more than $20-30 on a collared shirt in years!  Instead, she shops the men’s sales racks.  A main element of men’s sizing is the sleeve length, which mean’s if you’re on the shorter side,  you’re sure to find a sleeve length that’s right for you too.  Find a $20 or less shirt that fits you well, and if it’s loose in the waist, bring it to your tailor who can take it in a bit to show off your curves for under just $10.  Who can beat a custom fit shirt for $30?

Click here to find your Cyber Monday Deals Right Here, Right Now! 

Looking for the best online Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals from clothing to electronics?  Savings.com has you covered with their exclusive deals from the most popular stores.  Take advantage of the hottest sales as soon as they become live!  Just pick your category, search for the best deals, and start stacking your Cyber Monday savings TODAY – through the entire Holiday Season.  And to get the most bang for your Black Friday Buck – check out our Fab & Fru Black Friday tips.   Happy Shopping!