Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Tuesday's Rant: Valentine's stuff already out at Target


A year ago, I ranted about Target already having Valentine's Day merchandise out on Dec. 26th. Well this year, the Bullseye started even earlier. Two days before Christmas (Dec. 23rd) I spied this Valentine dinnerware (shown) on the store shelves. I also noticed heart-themed sleepwear in the lingerie department. And by yesterday, Target again had replaced all their Christmas cards with valentines. I don't know about you, but the LAST thing I want to think about in my post-holiday daze is Valentine's Day! Can't we just get to New Year's first??

Monday, December 27, 2010

Product Review: William Rast for Target Biker Jacket


Overall, I found the William Rast for Target collection pretty ho-hum. However, today in a Target store that I don't normally visit I happened upon one of the leather jackets in the collection (shown here). And I have to say, I've definitely overwhelmed by the quality of this piece. I didn't bother trying it on as it was a size small (and normally in Target's designer collaborations I take a large) but I inspected it well and was impressed by the look, feel, and finish. Not only is the leather buttery soft, but it's lined in a rich satin. All the stiching seems even as well, and I love the fact that the jacket isn't too short and cropped.

I've eyed Target's designer leather in the past - like the Zac Posen lipstick red number from earlier this year (too bright a color for me) and the Tracy Feith one from 2009 (which was cut way too short). But both paled in comparison to the William Rast one, and I may just bite the bullet and nab one (IF I can find it in my size, of course!).

Friday, December 24, 2010

Last-minute gift ideas at Target


Are you done with your Christmas shopping yet? If not, here are a few last-minute gift ideas I saw earlier today at my local Target. And as a reminder, Target stores are open today (Christmas Eve) until 7pm.

This Meyer's Clean Day Candle comes in seasonal scents like Iowa Pine (shown) and Orange Clove (which I bought today). This all-soy candle (with 25 hours of burning time) is just $6.99, and is pre-wrapped with a gift-sleeve wishing the recipient a "Clean and happy home".

Although out of stock online, I saw plenty of these Merona Fingerless Gloves in store, in several colors. Fingerless gloves are all the rage now because they keep your hands warm while allowing your digits to be "free" to text with your smartphone. I believe these were only about $12.99, and that there were matching scarves and hats, too.

For nature lovers, give a bit of Spring with one of the Smith & Hawken Paperwhite grow kits, on sale for just $8 this week. They also have a Red Amaryllis kit, too.

And finally, for wine enthusiasts on your list, check out this pair of Pinot Noir Tumblers from Riedel for just under $20. The fun shape - sans the stem - makes drinking any vintage more fun.

Happy Holidays, dear readers, and a very merry Christmas to you and yours!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

William Rast for Target hits stores today


The hotly anticipated William Rast for Target line hits stores today, and it is now available online. I was "teased" yesterday into thinking that my local Target store was putting it out early, as they already had all the signage up in the Juniors section. But alas, there wasn't one Rast piece to be had yet, so I couldn't preview anything.

Today we're having crazy weather in NorCal - gale-force winds and heavy rain - so I doubt I'll brave the elements to check out the line in store today. Of course, I could just buy online.... which I was going to do with this spiffy ruched twill jacket (shown) as well as pick up a couple of tees. But then I realized that Target isn't offering their "free shipping with an order over $50" offer on the William Rast line. What gives, Target? Oh well - you just save me some $$, because now I won't be ordering anything.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Target's D-Signed Honored by BNET


Demi Lovato's D-Signed line at Target (which I blogged about back in August) has been named one of BNET's "10 Best Fashion Industry Moves of 2010". They call Lovato's Disney-backed line of tween clothing and accessories a "masterful collaboration" with Target, and add it's "priced just right for parents to pick up while dashing in for toothpaste and TP".

You can check out BNET's full list on their site; they also mention Vera Wang's recent collaboration with David's Bridal.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Double-Take: Sigerson Morrison vs. Mossimo


It’s time for another double-take, where we try to guess which item is from an expensive designer brand, and which one is from Tar-jay. Over-the-knee boots were all over the runways for Fall, as seen by these two gray suede examples shown here. The difference is that one of them is by Sigerson Morrison (at Net-a-porter) and will set you back a whopping $575, and the other is by Mossimo (at Target) and is on sale for a paltry $27.99!

Which one is designer for real, and which is the awesome deal? Jump to the comments section to find out.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Free Holiday Music on Target.com


Are you as obsessed with this Target commercial as I am? If so, you can download the infectious song (called "Toy Jackpot", by Blackalicious) here on Target.com. You can also check out this section of their site for other free holiday music downloads.

Clearance Alert: Temple St. Clair


Although the Temple St. Clair for Target collection still seems to be full price over on Target.com, I spied it at 30% off at my local Target store yesterday. Which means I can return the bracelet (pictured) my mom got me for my birthday last week (at full price) in exchange for a couple of rings (now on sale). Although at first glance, this cuff bracelet is lovely, I find it to be quite heavy... and with my small wrists, I fear it may slip off. Also, I read the reviews online, and it sounds like this particular piece has issues with the stones popping off!

And the winner is...


The winner of my latest blog giveaway - for the John Derian Stationery set - is Ruby Mines! Ruby's entry was picked by the random number generator over at Random.org. Congrats, Ruby; you prize is on it's way. And thanks again to everyone who entered and for reading my blog!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Reader Giveaway: John Derian Stationery Set


Time for one last reader giveaway for this year. I cannot believe how time flies, and that we’re almost at the end of 2010! And to thank all of you for reading my blog, I’m giving away the following prize, just in time for Christmas: a John Derian stationery set (in the “Fine Script” style, shown here) from Target. The set comes in a folder with vintage “postcards” and other correspondence printed on the front, and the inside reveals “faux-aged” paper, decorative scroll envelopes, and “wax” seals (which are really stickers).

To win, all you have to do is leave a comment here along with your email address by Friday, Dec. 10th. This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only, and the winner (picked at random) will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 11th. Good luck!

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Consumer Alert: check those receipts!


Readers, just a little friendly reminder to double-check your Target receipts before leaving the store, especially this month. Because for some reason, the Bullseye always seems to try and OVERcharge me during the holidays.

Case in point: yesterday, I was at the checkout stand, and several items (at least 4) accidently rang up twice. In each case the helpful clerk seemed to catch the mistake, and took the additional items off my bill. However, as I was leaving the store, I double-checked my receipt....and sure enough, I'd been charged for TWO boxes of cereal, whereas I had only bought one. I know this sounds trivial, but at $4 a box, I wasn't going to walk out of the store without getting my $$ back! The gal at the Customer Service desk refunded me immediately for the error, and it seemed by her attitude that this is a common occurance.

Target now sells LIVE Christmas trees online


Wacky, yet true: according to this Boston Globe article, Target now sells LIVE Christmas trees online! And for some modern families, ordering a tree over the internet is replacing the cold outdoor search for the perfect fir.

Sounds crazy, but if you dig a little deeper, the idea actually has merit. Consumers like the convenience of having a tree delivered right to their door. And for Christmas tree farmers and advocates of fresh-cut firs, online customers represent their last great hope to reverse a wilting tradition. During the last two decades, fake firs and surrogate spruces — with their pre-lit, nonshedding needles — have taken over more than half of the nation’s living rooms.

Farmers are now embracing the Internet and teaming up for the first time this holiday season with Target and Amazon.com to sell real Christmas trees online. The growers are also taking on new high-tech tasks to tout the virtues of fresh-cut firs, such as shooting videos and uploading footage of live balsams and Frasers to YouTube.

And Target is wasting no time to try and win converts. This week the mass discounter offered a 10-percent sale on live tree orders, along with free shipping. “The opportunity to purchase your Christmas tree at Target.com is one way that Target is making holiday shopping simpler than ever," explained chain spokeswoman Morgan O’Murray.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Nina Garcia Welcomes a New Baby Boy


Nina Garcia of Project Runway fame - and also Target's resident Fashion Director - just welcomed her second child, a son named Alexander. The 45-year-old Colombia native announced back in July that she and husband David Conrod were expecting a baby. The couple already has a 3-year-old son, Lucas.

"Delighted to announce that over the wknd we welcomed 8lb13oz Alexander David Conrod into our home!" Garcia wrote on her Twitter page on Monday. "Baby is doing great & Lucas is thrilled!"

Clearance Alert: Tucker for Target


Just like those Thanksgiving leftovers, there are quite a few Tucker for Target items still hanging around. Check out Target's site for the selection of items left at 50% off. And, if you're lucky enough to find something still on the racks in the store, it most likely will be marked down to 75% off. That's how I was able to score this cute Tucker halter (in the gorgeous blue/green Mosaic Print) for just $6.49!

Cyber Monday deals at Target


Today is the much ballyhooed Cyber Monday, which has been widely reported as a "non-event" this year since many retailers started their holiday sales prior to Thanksgiving. Nonetheless, Target will still be having online deals available today only, which you can check out here. The biggest deals seem to be in electronics, toys, and apparel.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Sneak Peek: William Rast for Target


Several other blogs (like The Budget Babe) have already posted the ads for the upcoming William Rast for Target line, but here's the offical word from JT's fan site. Pictured is the two-page Elle Magazine ad, and they state that the line "stays true to William Rast’s cool rocker-chic vibe, or, as the advertisement states, “biker bohemia.” There is plenty of leather, plenty of denim, and plenty of attitude, which is hardly surprising when you consider that the collection is inspired by “the iconography of biker culture.” "

As a reminder, the William Rast for Target collection hits stores on December 19, and will be available through January 22.

Target to take over San Francisco's Metreon


Target's first San Francisco store will be located the dramatically new-looking Metreon, as shown in this artist's rendering.

Assuming all goes according to plan, the City Target store, taking up the Metreon's second floor, should be ready by early 2012. It will be complemented by a "visually inviting" 470-seat dining terrace overlooking Yerba Buena Gardens and a 10- to 14-foot-tall sculpture at the corner of Fourth and Howard streets.

Those are some of the features itemized by the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency, which gave its final nod to the project this week, a mere year after Target first talked to the building's landlord, Westfield Metreon, about moving in there.

The 85,000-square-foot store is considerably smaller than Target's average of 175,000 square feet, and will be one the first of the Minneapolis company's urban-centered stores.

This is exciting news for San Francisco, seeing the the Metreon has been in decline for years. The 85-million dollar Metreon opened back 1999 as an entertainment center, the first of a proposed chain of Sony urban centers aggregating dining, gaming, music, exhibitions, shopping, and movies. Sony intended the ambitious project to be not only a theme park and gallery for Sony products but a way to reinforce a hip image for the Sony brand. However, the venture failed, and in 2006 the Metreon was sold and refashioned as a food-oriented mall.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Rachel Pally for Target


Target has featured several guest designers this year in their Red Hot Shop, including Alison Lewis, Geren Ford, and Corey Lynn Calter. Now designer Rachel Pally has partnered with the Bullseye for this exclusive dress (shown) just in time for the holidays. This is one of those increasingly popular "convertible dresses" that you can wear in a variety of ways: as a halter, strapless, knotted, or even as a high-waisted skirt. [More pics available here]. Crafted in Pally's signature jersey fabric, this dress comes in a deep plum floral print. I've seen these convertible-type dresses go fo $150 and up at local boutiques, so Target's price of $79.99 seems a bargain in comparison.

Target's Black Friday deals leaked on online


Some of Target's Black Friday deals have already leaked online, including reports of $3 Chefmate appliances (2-slice toasters, 5-speed electric handmixers and 2-slice sandwich makers) and flat screen TVs at almost half off (a 40-inch Westinghouse LCD HDTV for $298, down from $550). You can check out this article on Yahoo!Finance for further details.

And the winner is...


The winner of my latest blog giveaway - for the Poketo Camera Case - is Heike! Heike's entry was picked by the random number generator over at Random.org. Congrats, Heike; I have emailed you directly for your address so I can mail you your prize. And thanks again to everyone who entered and for reading my blog!

Monday, November 8, 2010

New at Target: Petit Trésor

Baby gifts usually fall into one of two categories: 1) boring and practical, or 2) adorable and overpriced. Thankfully, the new Petit TrĂ©sor for Target® collection has lots of too-cute pieces that make affordably chic gifts perfect for giving.

Case in point: this adorable Snuggle Buddy, topped with a Petit TrĂ©sor signature teddy bear. Check out the gingham ears; how precious is that? You can view the entire Petit TrĂ©sor for Target® collection here.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Reader Giveaway: Poketo Camera Case


I've been so darn busy at work lately that I've been neglecting my blog. So to make it up to you, dear readers, I've decided to have another reader giveaway! This time the prize is this colorful camera case from Poketo (shown here). The tag actually says "camera case" on one side and "gear case" on the other, so I guess it has multiple uses. I can tell you that I have a Nikon CoolPix camera (a bit larger than the camera shown in the picture) and it fits into this case perfectly!

To win, all you have to do is leave a comment here along with your email address by Friday, Nov. 12th. This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only, and the winner will be announced on Nov. 13th.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Target to offer iPhone


First came the iPad, which Target started carrying in its retail stores in October. Now comes the iPhone, which the Bullseye will start selling come Nov. 7th.

Target will carry the iPhone in 846 stores that include Mobile Centers, and customers can select from the iPhone3GS or iPhone4 and receive quick in-store activation on the purchase of a new iPhone.

Target's Toy Catalog now available online


The big Target Holiday Toy Catalog is now available on Target.com. The deals offered in this Holiday Toy Catalog are valid Nov. 3rd - Nov. 24th, which is one day before Thanksgiving. Target is actually launching their Thanksgiving Sales event on the Sunday before Thanksgiving Day, and this sales event will overlap with the toy catalog offers. Target also has a general Holiday Gift Guide, with ideas for men, women, children and even pets.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Fab Find: Mossimo embellished gloves


Most Target stores are now fully stocked with a wide-array of cold weather gear, including hats, scarves and gloves. And the other day I found these killer leather gloves by Mossimo featured on an endcap, begging to be tried on. The first pair I spied were the studded ones, which definitely give off a "rocker vibe". And then I spotted the zipper-trim ones, which are still edgy but are softened by the curve of the ruffle. And at just $22.99 a pair, either style would make the perfect Christmas gift for the fashionista on your list.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Hello Kitty To Visit Select Target Stores


To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sanrio — the cutesy-poo company that gave the world characters including Hello Kitty, Little Twin Stars, Chococat, and My Melody — Target will be hosting a traveling Sanrio store (complete with giant Hello Kitty, shown). Filled with limited-edition one-off product goodness, the truck and mobile shop will be driving cross-country and visiting selected Target stores. Check out Racked.com for the complete list of dates and locations, as well as a peek at the limited-edition merchandise that will be sold.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Target to Re-issue the BEST of past Go International Collections


Exciting news, Target shoppers! Especially fans of Target's past Go International collections. Racked.com is reporting that Target plans to celebrate the fifth anniversary of its GO International designer collaborations with a best-of retrospective re-release of 34 dresses from 17 past designers. The GO International series launched in February 2006 with British designer Luella Bartley (who's since closed down her fashion label) and continued with Tara Jarmon, Paul & Joe, Behnaz Sarafpour, Proenza Schouler, Libertine, Alice Temperley, Erin Fetherston, Jovovich-Hawk (shown), Rogan, Richard Chai, Jonathan Saunders, Thakoon, Tracy Feith, Rodarte, and the more recent Zac Posen and Tucker.

Unfortunately, there aren't photos of the re-releases yet... and won't be until February. But the goods are scheduled to hit Target stores on March 13th, 2011.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Double-Take: Xhilaration vs. Joie


It’s time for another double-take, where we try to guess which item is from an expensive designer brand, and which one is from Tar-jay. You may have noticed that sequins were shown all over the runway for Fall, and as the Holiday season approaches I'd expect to see even more of them in stores. A sequined tank is an easy way to add the trend to your wardrobe without breaking the bank, expecially if you pick the $17.99 Xhilaration version (at Target) over the crazy-expensive Joie one (over $200 at Zappos!). Care to guess which is which? The answer appears in the comments section.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Fab Find: Converse One Star's Cropped Moto Jacket


I was lucky enough to find this fun little moto-inspired jacket on clearance at my local Target for 30% off! It's the perfect little layering piece, and so much dressier than just a plain old sweatshirt (although like a sweatshirt, it's made of a cozy fleece material). I bought the charcoal grey one (shown here) but it also comes in light heather grey, navy blue, and burgundy.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Clearance Alert: Poketo for Target


The fun, arty Poketo for Target line (which I first told you about back in August) is now on clearance in Target stores at 30% off. The sale seems limited to stores, however, as what's left of the Poketo collection is still full price on Target.com. Some of the items I saw at my local Target would make great stocking stuffers, too, like the Poketo Animal Wallet (shown, just $6.99 on clearance) or this whimsical Poketo Monsters Water Bottle (on clearance in stores for $9.99).

Target Lets You Print FB Photos In-Store


Trendhunter warns us that if you still don’t believe that Facebook is taking over the world, then you obviously haven’t heard about Target Social Network Connectivity. This seemingly harmless jumble of words is actually the name for Target’s new Facebook kiosks that will soon be appearing in stores.

Target has partnered with Kodak to create the Target Social Network Connectivity kiosks. These kiosks are designed to let people log onto their Facebook account and then print photos off it. So now you can print and keep that totally sweet tagged photo of you doing a keg stand back in college at the same place you buy your groceries. Ain't progress grand?

Friday, October 22, 2010

Target in hot water over ads poking fun at Moms


Uh oh.... Target went there. Target is finding itself in hot water after running an ad that makes fun of moms who make their kids' Halloween costumes.

The ad - which you can watch here on YouTube - features a child in a homemade Iron Man costume (complete with a push-button closet light on his chest) and suggests that all children would be infinitely happier in the generic, plastic, factory made costume that retails for a mere $20 at Target.

Bloggers were quick to blast the Bullseye, with Jezebel asking "Why trick of treat in the creative costume your mom spent hours slaving over when you could wear a plastic outfit from Target and look the same as all the other Iron Mans?"

And Slate chimed in with "What distinguishes this Target commercial is its degree of blind, witless belief in its own message. The homemade Iron Man costume is supposed to be pitiful, but it's more interesting and better-looking than the store-boughten one, without seeming like the product of slavish overparenting. I would give extra candy to a kid who showed up at the door dressed like that."

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Double-Take: Xhilaration vs. Madden Girl


It’s time for another double-take, where we try to guess which item is designer, and which one is from Tar-jay. Today we take a look at these adorable ruffled t-strap pumps. They look pretty darn identical, don’t they? Only one pair is from Target, and costs just $19.99, whereas the other pair is twice that much at DSW.

And since I can’t hide the name brand printed on each shoe, I’ll just go ahead and give you the answer: the shoe on the left is the "Setra" by Madden Girl and will set you back $50 (or $39.95 on sale at DSW) and the one on the right is the "Tabitha" from Xhilaration at Target.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

The Returns Department...


It’s time for another installment of The Returns Department, a sporadic feature on my blog in which I share with you an impulse buy that went awry. My latest case of "buyer's remorse" was over this pair of Temple St. Clair earrings (shown) and matching necklace. After having them for several weeks, and still not wearing them, I figured that if I wasn't "in love" with the set and that I should just return it.... especially since it set me back almost $70!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Wednesday's Rave: Sonia Kashuk's Radiant Tinted Moisturizer


Regular readers of this blog already know that I'm a huge fan of Sonia Kashuk and her products. In fact, back in June I raved about her Perfecting Luminous Foundation. Now I have to rave about her her Radiant Tinted Moisturizer, which I hadn't tried until recently. Usually I steer clear of tinted moisturizers because they're too greasy for my combination skin. But not this one, which promises to "help balance and protect skin". It contains light reflectors to "help disguise fine lines and wrinkles" and also "delivers a more even skin tone". All I know is that it gives me a hint of color and doesn't leave me with a "shiny face" at the end of the day. Plus it contains UVA and UVB sun protection (15 SPF) and comes in a range of shades.

The only problem is that currently this product is only available in stores (and not on Target.com) which is curious since it's been featured both on Oprah.com as well as on Sonia's own blog.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Mulberry for Target almost sold out online!


As regular readers know, I'm not a fan of the new Mulberry for Target handbag line. Nonetheless, the line is almost completely sold out on Target.com. Amazing! In fact, the only two bags still available are this pukey pink leopard one (shown here) and the large tote in basic black.

Tuesday's Rant: Target out of Polo Shirts


Most Tuesdays I take the opportunity to rant about something I do not like about Target… because although I love ‘em to death, they ain’t perfect. Today's rant is about the fact that Target stores are currently sold out of mens polo shirts. Yes folks, POLO SHIRTS. What would seem like a basic wardrobe item is as elusive as a snowball in June. I've been to 3 Target stores this week (trying to find some for my husband) and the few polos they have are in limited sizes (meaning only XS or XXL) and only in stripes (no solids). It seems that Target has swapped out their polos for seasonal flannel shirts and thermal tees. But shouldn't polo shirts be a "basic" that's stocked year-round?? I just don't get it...

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Ali Larter hearts Target


With a couple of months to go, Ali Larter got an early start on prepping for motherhood by celebrating her baby shower last Saturday at a pal’s house in Los Angeles. “It was an incredible day and I just felt so lucky to be surrounded by so many dear friends and family,” the actress – who’s expecting a boy – told PEOPLE Magazine. “It was a very special day!”

Designed by David Stark and presented by Target and Baby Buggy, the party focused on the less fortunate. Larter, 34, will continue to donate through her Ali Larter for Baby Buggy registry on target.com, where the public can purchase items to be sent to mothers in need. Additionally, Target made a financial donation to Larter's chosen charity,Project Peanut Butter, an organization which helps malnourished children in Africa.

Friday, October 8, 2010

The Returns Department...


It’s time for another installment of The Returns Department, a sporadic feature on my blog in which I share with you an impulse buy that went awry. Such was the case with this Tucker shirtdress (shown). While I raved about it when I bought it last month, the reality is that the style of this dress does not suit me, and I'll be schlepping it back to Target this weekend. The only way that I can explain it is that it "fits weird". The belt loops seem to be riding high, vs. at my true waist. Meaning, when I cinch it with the belt, it's too high - not as high as an empire waist, but high enough to look (and feel) odd. I still think this is a cute dress... for the right person. But alas, not for me.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Fab Find: Mossimo fitted plaid shirt


I kept seeing these shirts at Target over the past few weeks, but there would only be a random XS here and there, with none in my size. Now the stores near me seem to be fully stocked, and I'm so glad I picked up a couple of them! These shirts are super-cute, have a flattering, fitted shape, and are made of extra-soft flannel. They also come in over 10 different color combos, making the selection terrific.

And best of all, they seem to be on "secret sale" this week in stores! The shirts are just a paltry $15 to begin with, but they ring up on sale at $10. I thought it might have been a fluke, until I went back to get another shirt today, and the same thing happened.

UPDATE:
At another Target near me today, I noticed a sign up with these shirts announcing the $10 sale as a "Remodeling Special". All the Target stores near me that have recently gone through remodeling to add the fresh grocery department seem to have these signs sprinkled through the store on various merchandise. My theory on the shirts is that normally (without the remodel) they would have been put out several weeks earlier, and now they're putting them on sale to try and get them to move.

Target to finally open in Canada


Good news for our neighbors to the North! Target is finally coming to Canada. It was announced yesterday that they plan to open 200 stores in Canada beginning with 6 to 10 stores in 2014 and 2015, reports the Montreal Gazette. "We are exploring opportunities in Canada," said Amy Reilly, a Target spokeswoman. "We are optimistic that our first stores could open by mid-decade." The first location will be in the Toronto area.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Wednesday's Rave: Bonne Bell's Paul Frank products


While browsing Target yesterday, I came across something fun in the health & beauty aisle: Paul Frank-branded Bonne Bell products. I've been a Paul Frank fan for years, so the bright, fun-inspired designs immediately caught my eye, especially Julius the Monkey. I had never seen these before, but a quick search on the the web reveals they've been around since last year. The sets I saw included solid lip gloss in a tin, liquid lipgloss in a tube, and the classic "Lip Smackers" lip balm kind like the ones shown here with bonus keychain. Keeping with Bonne Bell's tradition, the Paul Frank products come in an offbeat variety of flavors like Cotton Candy, Fried Ice Cream and Coconut Creme. And at just $3.99 for each set, this would make a perfect stocking stuffer for tween or teenage girls.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Tuesday's Rant: Target's Grocery Section


Most Tuesdays I take the opportunity to rant about something I do not like about Target… because although I love ‘em to death, they ain’t perfect. Today's rant is about Target's new fresh grocery section. While I love the idea in theory, in reality, I have found the section poorly stocked on almost every occasion I've shopped there. Sure, it's great that Target sells blueberries for just $2.99 a basket when my local grocery store has them for $4.99. But that's only if you can find them, and 9 times out of 10, they're sold out. Ditto with the fresh french bread. And half the time, they're out of 2% milk.

Memo to Target: if you want me to shop your grocery section, please stock the basics I need. Otherwise, I'll just go back to doing all my grocery shopping at my local supermarket.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Double-Take: Pottery Barn vs. Target

It's time for another double-take, and this time, we visit the dinnerware department. It amazes me that people still buy dishes at places like Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel when most often you can find a pattern/style that's similar - if not identical - at Target. Case in point: the cheery-yellow dinnerware shown here. One is from Pottery Barn, and costs a hefty $48 for a set of 4 dinner plates. And the other is from American Simplicity (at Target) and weighs in at just $14.99 for 4 plates. Can you guess which is which? The answer appears in the comments section.

Sonia Kashuk Breast Cancer Limited Edition Collection


As everyone knows, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And to help the cause, each year Sonia Kashuk releases a limited edition selection of items at Target. This year's collection includes the following:

The Circle of Hope Kabuki Brush, with bright pink bristles.

The Pretty in Pink Eye Shadow Palette in 3 shimmery shades.

The Circle Around a Cause bright pink clutch and brush set.

The Seeing Pink makeup bag and brush set.

The Primping for a Cause tweezer and eyelash curler set.

The Brighten Your Day 2-pack of pink makeup sponges.

And shown here, the Lend a Hand nail polish set in 3 yummy pink & plummy shades.

Friday, October 1, 2010

My review of Mulberry for Target


Today I went to a Target store that I don't visit that much, even though it's only about 15-20 minutes away. It sits in a large and often crowded mall, which is why I don't frequent the place. Anyhow, as I was walking through the accessories section, I noticed that this store had the new Mulberry for Target collection out already (even though the line isn't supposed to be available until Oct. 10th). Unfortunately, as I predicted a few weeks ago, this collection is a true disappointment. The faux-patent leather material looks tacky and plastic-ee, and even the denim bags (like the one shown) screamed "childish" and "cheap". Worst of all was the hot-pink leopard-print PVC bag; the pink is so bright, it's practically neon! What a letdown.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Fab Find: Corey Lynn Calter dress


Back in July, I reported that Corey Lynn Calter was the latest designer tapped to create an exclusive dress for Target, and that it would debut on Target.com in August. Well today I was lucky enough to find it on the rack at my local Target store. It must have been an online return, as I only found the one. But lucky for me, it was my size, and even better, was marked 50% off! This picture doesn’t do it justice; it’s made of a flowy silk georgette, and the colors are a mix of fall hues like deep purple, rich mustard, and vibrant orange on a black background. Normally I shy away from tiny floral prints like this one, but I like the colors & cut of the dress so much that I’m making an exception. Plus, this dress is perfect for the Indian Summer weather we’re having here in Northern California.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

New at Target: Facebook Credits


Target is now selling "Facebook Credits". Basically, they are gift cards in denominations of $15, $25, or $50 to use to buy Facebook apps., games, and send virtual "presents" to your FB friends. Target dubs the cards as "the quick and easy way to get optional items like virtual pets and extra weapons in your favorite games on Facebook. Redeem this gift card for Facebook Credits to use in many games on Facebook or give the gift of powered-up game play to a friend!" I say file this one under "truly stupid ideas".

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Wednesday's Rave: Sonia Kashuk's Lashify Mascara


Regular readers of this blog already know that I'm a big fan of Sonia Kashuk's products. And now, I have another one to rave about: Sonia's Lashify Waterproof Mascara. I'm always on the lookout for a great mascara - one that will last the day, won't flake off, and (most importantly, since I wear contacts) doesn't irriate my eyes. I bought this on a whim, and now I'm hooked. This makes my lashes thicker and longer, without any messy clumps. And - unlike some waterproof mascaras - it comes off completely with soap & water or makeup cleanser. It even comes with this cool little comb on the other end to fan your lashes for extra definition. Perfection!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Tuesday's Rant: Victoria Hagan leaves Target


Most Tuesdays I take the opportunity to rant about something I do not like about Target… because although I love ‘em to death, they ain’t perfect. Today's rant is about the disappearance of Victoria Hagan's "Perfect Pieces" line of home decor. I cannot find any information about the designer ending her collaboration with Target (which started back in 2006) but her designs have vanished from store shelves. And if you do a search on Target.com, you'll come up empty handed, except for an upcoming book by Hagan that won't be released until next month.

I simply adored this line, and own several pieces including a lamp, a mantle clock, and two picture frames. And I coveted - though never got around to purchasing - the side chair shown here. I wonder why the heck Target discontinued this line? It seemed like it was popular, and was constantly being written up in blogs like ApartmentTherapy and CasaSugar. Boo!