Fab Find: Odin New York Men's Jacket

Contrary to my post at the start of this month, some of the offerings from The Shops are still available on Target.com despite the fact that it's been well over 90 days since the collection was introduced in stores. I bought this Odin New York jacket for our teenage son several weeks ago, and he wears it all the time. It can be risky picking out clothes for teenagers, but this jacket seems to be a hit.  It's still available on Target.com in a range of sizes, and now is on clearance for just $24.48 (down from $69.99).  Note: the description calls it a "cropped" jacket, but IMO it's not that short.

Clearance Alert: C9 by Champion

Right now there's a huge selection of C9 by Champion women's athletic wear on sale this week at Target (as shown in Target's Weekly Ad) as well as on clearance on Target.com.  But IMO, the real deals are in stores on the clearance racks.  This is the time of year when I always score great buys on C9 stuff, and replenish all my workout and yoga wear.  I think it's a combination of Target trying to blow out the old C9 stock, plus a rash of Christmas returns that are now marked down. Case in point: I was able to get this C9 Supersoft Pullover at my local store (shown) for just $12.99 (marked down from $24.99).

Have designer collabs jumped the shark?

With the saturation of hi/lo designer collabs out there, Racked.com muses whether the practice has finally jumped the shark.  In looking over my 2012 blog posts, the list of Target's collabs is long: in January we still had what was left of Missoni on clearance, as well as the second installment of Josie Natori.  February brought us Jason Wu, and throughout the year The Shops concept and Harajuku Mini were ongoing. September gave us Nate Berkus, and December brought the Neiman-Marcus collection... which by all accounts, seems to have been a flop.

February will bring Prabal Gurung to Target, and Racked has noticed that this collaboration hasn't been as buzzed about as you might expect. Compared to the flurry of excitement that Jason Wu's lookbook generated last year - which was one of the most popular posts of the year on Racked - the announcement that Gurung is up next was met with only mild interest.  Back in November, they asked Gurung if he thought designer collabs were still relevant. "There's still a relevance factor, otherwise people wouldn't be doing it," he said. "Target were the pioneers of starting a collaboration like this, and... this is like the benchmark that as a new designer you want to keep. The audience that they have, hundreds of millions! As you grow your brand, what you want to do is increase brand familiarity."

But fashion experts seem to disagree. "It's become very formulaic at this point," Mickey Boardman, editorial director of Paper Magazine, told the New York Post. "Everyone does them, and so they don't really seem as special."

Fab Find: Merona Leopard-print Trench

I bought this Merona Leopard-print trench on a whim a few weeks ago, and have gotten compliments on it every time I've worn it since.  I also still have - and wear - the plaid version of this trench from last year, but it was time to update my wardrobe with a new one.  Both prints are a notch above "basic black" or khaki trench coats.  And Merona's version - crafted of water-repellent material - is superior to the recent leopard-trench offering from Kirna Zabete for Target, which is made of super-thin cotton.

Target.com only has limited sizes left of this trench (on sale for $34.98) but you can still find it in store in a range of sizes for even less (on clearance for $24.99).

Target.com sold tablet pre-loaded with porn...

According to TheDailyMail, a devastated mother says her Christmas was thrown into disarray after her daughter's long-awaited gift from Santa Claus came with a cache of graphic porn. Kanisha Morning of Sacramento, California, said that her 9 yr. old daughter had asked for an Android Zeki tablet for Christmas, and was thrilled when she unwrapped it on Tuesday morning. But the enthusiasm turned to shock when her daughter looked at some videos that were on the device.

Ms Morning told CBS Sacramento: '[She had an] awkward look on her face.  At the same time I’m going to ask her what’s wrong She’s handing me the tablet "mommy what’s this?"' The station reported that the explicit videos appeared to be amateur pornography, shot in a house.  Ms. Morning claims that she bought the tablet off Target.com because the big box retailer was not selling it in her nearby store. When it was delivered, she said it seemed 'factory sealed.'

When she contacted Target via their website, the store asked her to return the tablet for a new one. But the mother told CBS Sacramento that no longer wants to deal with the company, and went to the media to prevent any other children and mothers from having the same experience. She told the TV station: "This could have happened before. Who knows how many times this has happened and no one said anything about it. Another one could be on its way to another kid."

Forget X-mas; Target's already moved on to Valentine's Day

The "holiday creep" has happened even earlier this year.  Some of you may remember my Jan. 2, 2012 post when I reported that on last New Year's Eve (12/31/11) I had already spied Valentine's Day merchandise up at Target.  Well, the Bullseye seems to be at it again, as The Consumerist is reporting that as of Dec. 19th, Reader "L" sent in this photographic evidence (shown here) of a Valentine's endcap at her Florida Target store.  

But I guess it could be worse.  Reader "Katie" sent in a note & picture to The Consumerist yesterday that before Christmas, she had already seen Easter candy stocked at her local Stop & Shop.

'Tis the season for returning...

Now that Christmas is over, will you be taking back those unwanted gifts to exchange for something you REALLY want?  If so, then heed The Recessionista's advice, as many stores have changed and/or tightened up their return policies this year.  Target in particular has reduced the return period for computers (tablets, netbooks, and eReaders), cameras, game consoles, GPS units, etc. down to 30 days (instead of 45). In addition, opened items may be denied a refund/exchange. On the plus side, Target can search its system for receipts for customers who lose them.  In fact, most of the time I don't bother saving Target receipts anymore, as I know the store clerks can just look up my returns via my TargetRED Card.

And remember: the return deadline for the Target + Neiman-Marcus holiday collection is Jan. 5th. Perusing Target's website this morning, I notice that almost everything from the collab is still in stock, although several items (like these Brian Atwood gloves, the Tory Burch lunch box and the Tracy Reese dessert plates) are now listed as only "available in stores" and can no longer be ordered online.

Last minute hostess gifts at Target...

If your holiday includes having dinner or cocktails at a friend's or relative's house (as mine does) you'll probably need at least one "hostess gift" so you won't show up empty-handed.  Here are three quick ideas, all available at Target:

• Festive candles in holiday scents such as "Sleigh Bell" from Mara Mi for just $12.99 each.  Mara Mi products are located in Target stores on endcaps in the stationery department; shown here are some of the coordinating wrapping papers that go with the candles.
• The Carolina Herrera Stationery Set from the Target + Neiman-Marcus Collection.  At 50% off, it's now just $9.99, and as of yesterday there still seemed plenty of them at my two local stores. 
• A bottle of bubbly.  Target carries several decent brands of champagne such as Veuve Clicquot and Moet & Chandon; just tuck in a gift bag, and you're all set.

And as a reminder, Target stores are open today until 9pm for your last-minute shopping needs.  Happy Holidays, everyone!

Target + NM Collab slashed to 50% off!

This just in!  Target has slashed prices on it's holiday designer collab with Neiman Marcus to 50% off.  This sale applies to both stores and online.  So whadday think, readers?  Will you buy it now that it's on sale?

And the winner is...

The winner of my latest blog giveaway - for the Missoni for Target tights - is reader Shana! Shana's entry was picked by the random number generator over at Random.org. Congrats, Shana; I've sent you an email asking you for your mailing address, and as soon as I get it I'll mail out your prize. And thanks again to everyone who entered and for reading my blog!

Reader Giveaway: Missoni for Target Tights

Hello readers! It's time for another reader giveaway as an expression of thanks to all of you who read my blog. This one is a Very Merry Missoni giveaway... so in celebration of the holiday season, I'm giving away a pair of Missoni for Target tights in size M/T.  This pair is brand new in package in the "Passione" purple/pink color, which I found in the back of my "stash drawer" while doing some belated Spring cleaning this afternoon.

To win, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post along with your email address by midnight on Wednesday, Dec. 19th. This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only, and the winner (picked at random) will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 20th. One caveat: due to the fact that I have to go on a business trip this week, I will not be able to mail these out to the winner until Thursday or Friday, so I cannot guarantee delivery by Christmas. Good luck!

Target's Friends & Fans Offer is Back!

Attention bargain hunters!  Target's Friends & Fans offer is back on their Facebook page.  When you spend $50, you get a $10 GiftCard, just by printing the coupon at this link: http://bit.ly/QVnB2t

And now for the fine print... Limited quantities available. Limit 1 Friends and Fans coupon per guest and transaction. Valid in-store only. Offer not valid on previous purchases. Void if copied, scanned, transferred, purchased, sold or prohibited by law. GiftCards and tax will not be included in determining purchase total. Free GiftCard not valid as payment on this purchase. Terms and conditions apply to GiftCards. No rain checks. Maximum retail value $10 for free GiftCard. No cash value.

Make a statement...

Showy necklaces - or "statement" pieces - are all the rage right now.  They can offer the right amount of glitz and glam to elevate even the plainest black dress to a party-appropriate outfit.  I've been impressed by those offered at Target lately, and thought I'd feature 3 of them here.  From left to right, we have the Beaded Chain Necklace for just $13.59, the Hematite Bib Necklace also at $13,59, and the Gold Spike Necklace for only $11.99.

Unfortunately, the Hematite Bib Necklace seems to be sold out online, but you may be able to find it in stores.  That's where I found mine - only in goldtone with smokey-gray stones - marked down to just $5.98! I wore it to a holiday party and got tons of compliments on it, too.

Battle of the moto jackets...

This isn't so much of a "double-take" as an internal battle between two similar moto jackets available at Target.  Both have the moto-style with leather (or pleather) mixed with knit panels and an asymmetrical zipper. Near left is the Kirna Zabete version, which is still available on Target.com and has finally been marked down to 50% off.  At $99.98, it's still a bit spendy, but keep in mind it's made of real leather and boasts the designer name.  And at far left is Mossimo's pleather version, which is only $29.99 and available online and in stores.  Which one would you buy?

Fab Find: Sonia Kashuk Gilded Cage Clutch & Brush Set

Forget the Target + Neiman Marcus collab; you can find the luxe look elsewhere at the Bullseye.  Case in point: this Sonia Kashuk Gilded Cage Clutch & Brush set.  Now I bought this the other day, and can tell you that the quality of this clutch bag is amazing.  Plus, this shimmery minaudière-style bag is roomy enough to hold all your essentials: keys, mobile phone, lipstick, etc.  And at just $24.99, it's quite the steal, when similar clutches from the likes of Sondra Roberts (for $140), Diane von Furstenberg (for $295) and Milly (for $325) can be found at Bloomingdales.

As you can tell, I'm obsessed with the clutch, but the brushes it comes with are fab as well.  This set contains six brushes in all, including a powder/blusher brush, a foundation brush, a fan brush, a synthetic crease brush, and eye shadow brush and a synthetic flat eye liner brush.  Available in stores or here on Target.com.

Rumors fly about Target + NM collab leftovers...

Shocking internet rumors are flying about any "leftovers" from the Target + Neiman Marcus collab being destroyed vs. ever going on sale or clearance.  There are several comments on The Budget Babe's review of the collection from folks who've heard this directly frm Target employees, as well as this alleged "insider tip" on ThePurseForum:

"I actually have a friend that is doing PR for target for this collection and we were talking about how much would be left over cause I felt some of this stuff would not sell, but she told me that some of the designers – Oscar de la Renta, Prabal Gurung and Carolina Herrera didn’t want their stuff going on deep discount on the sales racks and Neiman Marcus didn’t want to have this stuff on their sales racks for long, so the agreement was that the stuff that is unsold would be compacted and destroyed after Jan 5th."

In the past, Target has donated unused merchadise to Goodwill stores.  It did cross my mind that this collab might be different - seeing that there were so many designers involved - and that any leftovers might end up getting marked down at Last Call (Neiman Marcus' clearance outlet) stores instead. IMHO, that would be a much better option then letting the merchandise go to waste.

So what can be done about this?  I'm not sure, but I just posted the question of whether this "destruction plan" is true on TargetStyle's Facebook page, and will see whether they respond or not. I have a hard time believing Target would actually trash all the leftover merchandise, since they pride themselves on being ecologically and green-minded.

New at Target: dENiZEN Colored Jeans

Colored jeans - especially in bright tones - are all the rage right now.  While Christmas shopping at the mall last weekend, the hubby asked me "why don't you get some of those?"  Those of you who know me personally will recognize (as I do) that I'm a little long in the tooth to rock this look ;-)  But if you're interested in trying this trend, Target's dENiZEN brand has a new line of fashion denim just for you.

dENiZEN has introduced new, limited-edition colors of their Totally Shaping Mid-Rise Skinny jeans, available exclusively at Target.  This style is designed to flatter a woman's figure and help achieve a long and lean silhouette, and for a limited time will be available in four fashionable jewel-tone finishes: Red, Royal Purple, Turquoise and Rosebud. Sizes range from 2-18 regular, with additional short and long inseams available on Target.com. To note: I could only find the regular "dark denim" finish on Target.com, so I assume these special colors are only available in stores.

Target's desperate display move...

In what seems like a desperate move to increase foot traffic around it's Chrismas collab with Neiman Marcus, my local Target store (shown here) has moved the display to the very FRONT of the store so you can't miss it once you walk in.  Previously this display was tucked in a corner further back, between the maternity section and the dressing rooms.  My store also has an employee acting as a "greeter" to stop shoppers as they pass by to try to get them to check out the goods.  Despite this effort, the section still looks fully stocked.

Wednesday's Rave: Patch NYC Animal Print Bowl Set

I found this adorable animal print dessert bowl set from Patch NYC a couple of weeks ago at Target, and I knew I had to have it... especially since it was marked down to 50% off.  I probably wouldn't have paid full price ($19.99) for these, but at half off I was sold.  These bowls are the perfect size for snacks and other meals besides dessert; in fact, I'm eating fruit out of the "owl" one as I type this post. I got my set for $9.98 in store, and it's marked down to $11.98 on Target.com.

Speaking of Patch NYC and The Shops at Target... we're approaching Dec. 9th, which will be the 90-day mark since the introduction of the collection.  And since Target collabs seem to only have a 3-month shelf life, I would assume that what's left from The Shops will soon disappear from stores and Target.com. 

Sales of Target + Neiman Marcus less than stellar...

After Target posted an unexpected decline in November same-store sales, expectations had been that its upscale collab with luxury emporium Neiman Marcus could help give its December holiday sales a much-needed lift.  But according to WSJ-Marketwatch, early indications of demand for the designer collection looks to be less than stellar.

“We had high expectations following a warm reception at a NYC one-day pop-up shop on Nov. 29, with over 6,000 attending,” said Citigroup analyst Deborah Weinswig, adding she visited the Target store in New York on Saturday when the collection was officially launched. “We were disappointed by in-store execution. The collection was tucked in the back of the store, shelves were full and messy, and we saw little traffic.”

She added her contacts across the country relayed “similar accounts of in-store experiences.” While J.P. Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers had a more positive note, he noted disappointing sales. “It appears that the collection clearly was a traffic driver to the stores, but product sell-through from our small sample set seemed soft,” he said. “The collection clearly generated less excitement than the Missoni launch.”

But Horvers is still giving the collection some benefit of the doubt. He noted the launch took place at a time when it’s typically a lull during the holiday shopping period. “There’s a long way to go before Christmas,” the analyst said. And as an indicator of future demand, the analyst noted several items on Neiman Marcus’s website were listed as sold out. On Monday morning, Neiman Marcus’s website showed sold-out items including a $59.99 Judith Leiber compact mirror, a $50 Diane von Furstenberg yoga mat and $8 Rodarte wrapping paper. They were all listed as still available on Target.com, indicating that Neiman Marcus’s “customer may have a greater affinity for the designers,” Weinswig said.

Target's spokesman Joshua Thomas responded to say that anywhere from 20 customers (in Miami) to more than 150 (in Minneapolis store) lined up outside of its stores before the opening on Saturday. Online traffic also was “on par” with that of Black Friday when the collection was launched, he said. It “wasn’t intended to be a one-day shopping event,” he said, adding the discount retailer “more than doubled” its inventory for the collection, as compared to Missoni for Target, to meet “anticipated demand.”

Meanwhile, I've noticed that all my local stores still seem to be pretty fully stocked with merchandise from the collab, as is the case at this downtown Chicago store (shown here, courtesy of Racked.com). People just don't seem excited about this stuff, which has me wondering if - and when - the merchandise will go on clearance.

Target's incredibly shrinking holiday card section...

Last weekend while at Target I decided I had better pick up my holiday cards and start mailing them out, because by Thanksgiving I had already received a couple in the mail from friends.  The thing was, I couldn't find them at first.  I thought I was going crazy, and thought perhaps this year they had moved them to the greeting card & stationery section.  I must have walked around the seasonal section of the store three times before I finally found them, in the very back corner, tucked in between the Hanukkah supplies and the Christmas lights.

I snapped this picture to show you because in past years Target's holiday card section used to be at least 2-3 times larger than this. Keep in mind that this picture makes the section look grander than it is, since the four main shelves in the middle section aren't boxed cards but "individual" greeting cards. Needless to say, I found the selection to be severely limited, and considered going elsewhere, but I ended up settling on one of their "green" (recycled paper stock) designs as I really wanted to start getting my cards out as soon as possible.  When I got home and complained to my husband about the poor selection, he laughed at me and said "What do you expect? No one sends cards anymore; that's why the postal service is losing billions of dollars.Target must feel that their floor space is better filled with items that will be sure to sell vs. holiday cards."

He does have a point: fewer of my friends bother to send cards now, and I remember that the day after Christmas, Target would always have a ton of leftover cards on clearance.  What do you think, readers?  Are sending holiday cards a thing of the past, or do you still regularly send them (and like receiving them)?

The Target + NM Collection: it's here!

On the West Coast, the Target + Neiman Marcus Collection was live as of 12:45am, because that's when I woke up (thanks, insomnia!) and decided to check my computer.  The collection was live on both Target.com and Neimanmarcus.com.  Also at that time, I checked eBay, and there were still only 75 or so items on there, presumably from Thursday's Pop-Up Shop on  NYC.  This morning, there are now over 500, so buyers beware: the things you see on eBay are items that most sellers don't even have in their hands yet.

Some additional shopping tips: if you are having any issues with Target's site, try Neiman's instead, as it may have less traffic.  Scratch that: Racked.com is reporting this morning that Neiman's website is already sold out of many items, and they provide a list of them here.  Target's site, however, still seems fully stocked.   A tip if you do use Neiman's website: use the code "NMFALL" at checkout to get free shipping on your order from now until Dec. 4th, plus free online returns.  The offer is supposed to also include "free gift packaging", but when I tried to put a couple of items from the Target collab in my cart last night, it said that these items weren't eligible for the gift packaging.  So instead, I ended up buying my things from Target.com, where I used my RedCard and got both free shipping plus 5% off my purchase.  I did notice upon checkout there was a disclaimer stating "allow for extra processing time".  I'm not sure what means, except that the shipping ETA was around Dec. 14th.  You may want to keep that in mind in case you're ordering Christmas gifts online, because if they don't arrive until mid-December, you'll have less time to wrap them to send out to family and friends.

If you plan to shop in person, Neiman Marcus stores may have fewer crowds than Target, as I don't think everyone is aware they're opening early at 8am today.  And at NM, you're more likely to get the "personalized service" they're famous for, so if you're looking for one item in particular their staff can help you locate it in the store.  If you do shop the collection at Target, seek out the less-busy ones in the suburbs or outlying areas vs. the major metropolitan outlets.

So what did I end up buying?  Only two things: the Tory Burch Lunch Box from my blog post earlier this week, and this Lela Rose top.  I ended up not getting the Oscar de la Renta bag, because upon further inspection, it looks more tan/beige in the close up pictures than white/cream.  I also considered getting the Carolina Herrera Stationery Set, but $20 seemed steep to me for 3 pads of paper and pencils with her name on it, especially when Target has so many other cute stationery items (at much lower prices) from brands like Greenroom Eco and Mari Mi.

Shopping strategies for the NM/Target Holiday Collection…

Good Morning America just did a story about yesterday’s Neiman Marcus/Target Pop-up Shop, and it sounds like the lines were long in NYC.  Target executives commented that they’ve taken measures to avoid the website-crashing issues of last year’s Missoni frenzy, and they also stated that this time they will have more inventory available both in stores and online.  That said, it’s still unclear exactly WHEN items will be available for sale on Target.com.  According to The Recessionista, ”Target says via their Target Style Facebook page only that the collection will be available in the “early morning” hours of Dec. 1. …which could be anywhere from 1 am EST to 6 am EST, so the timing is rather vague.” 

For those of you who want to shop in person, Target stores will open Saturday at 8am (as usual) and Neiman Marcus stores will open early tomorrow at 8am to launch the collection.  I had been wondering about that, since NM usually doesn’t open until 10am.  I’m also wondering whether there will be ONE section in the store for all the items in the collection, or whether they’ll be sprinkled throughout the store.  If past collabs provide a clue, then the items will be spread out around the store, which will make them harder to find.  Regarding purchase limits, NM states that shoppers won’t be limited on the total number of items they can buy in store, but purchase quantities will be limited to 5 of any single item.   I assume that Target has similar limits in place.*

As for me, I’ll probably stick to shopping online for this collection.  I lived through the Missoni madness, and don’t want to experience that again! I do like the Tory Burch lunchbox featured in yesterday's blog post, as well as this Oscar de la Renta bag, but neither are "must haves" for me.

*UPDATE - Target has the same item limit in place, plus they state this on their website: Items from the Target + Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection must be returned by January 5th, 2013. Target will only accept collection items purchased at Target stores or Target.com.  Food for thought if you're buying items from the collection to give as Christmas gifts, as you (or the recipient) only has until 1/5/13 to return items vs. Target's normal 90-day return policy.

Target + Neiman Marcus Pop-Up Shop today in NYC...

Jonesing to get your hands on the much-buzzed about Target + Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection?  Well if you live in NYC (or are travelling there today) you're in luck, because before the line hits stores nationwide on Dec. 1, New Yorkers can score the hot collection today at the retailers’ one-day only pop-up shop.

The designer collaboration features over 50 limited-edition accessories, home goods and fashions from top designers like Diane von Furstenberg, Jason Wu, Tracy Reese, and more.  The items range from $7.99 to $499.99, but most accessories come in at a gift-able price points, like this Tory Burch lunch box ($19.99) and thermos (for $24.99).

Doors open at 9 a.m. at 530 Fifth Ave in New York City.  And note: each shopper at the New York pop-up store will be limited to five total items.

Fab Find: Merona Green Blouse

I've been looking for something in this lush green - which I'd describe as Jade, but Target calls Fern - since I saw a dress in this exact color in store.  I loved the color, just not the dress, so the hunt was on for something else in the same shade. In perusing Target's site, I found this gorgeous blouse... and of course, it was listed as "currently unavailable" in all sizes.  But as luck would have it, I was able to find it on clearance at a local store (despite the fact that their crappy 'find in store' tool stated there were none available within 100 miles). It did take me 3 stores to find my size, but once I did, I scored it for 50% off!  It reminds me of something you'd see from Kate Spade, but at a fraction of the cost.

New at Target: Threshold's Upstate Holiday Decor Collection

As I've blogged about before, it's hard to keep up with all the home decor collections at Target these days.  Not only do they have the Nate Berkus line in stores, but the Threshold line continues to be updated on what almost seems to be a weekly basis.  Now Target has introduced their Upstate Holiday Decor Collection (from Threshold)  described as aimed at "both the traditionalists and modernists out there", it puts "charming twists on classic Christmas prints, patterns and icons".

While I really like the Threshold line, my advice is if you see something you like, buy it immediately.  Don't wait for it to go on sale, hope to see it at another Target store, or try to find it on their website.  I've found the Threshold inventory to be really spotty; different stores carry different items, and I've often found things in stores that aren't carried on Target.com. 

Target partners with Sam & Libby

In what may be their oddest designer pairing yet (and I use the word 'designer' liberally here) Target has announced it will partner with shoemakers Sam & Libby.  According to the official press release,  "Sam & Libby for Target features 20 styles of contemporary women’s footwear. Starting at $24.99, the newly re-launched line will include everything from sandals and flats to patterned wedges and pumps. The collection will update with fresh styles each season."

“Sam and Libby are pioneers in the footwear industry, and this partnership delivers the designer fashion and affordable prices our guests love finding at Target,” said Trish Adams, senior vice president of apparel and accessories, Target. “The attention to detail reflected in each style is incredible, and we look forward to adding Sam & Libby for Target to our roster of exclusive brands.” The Sam & Libby for Target collection will debut on May 5th, 2013. 

Don't get me wrong: Sam & Libby used to be huge.  Like back in 1987... and they probaby hit their height in 1991 (around the same time they used this logo, shown). Which makes this "re-launch" of the brand with the Bullseye a bit strange.  What's next?  A resurgence of Member's Only jackets available exclusively at Target?  Wait, cancel that: believe it or not, I just Googled it and Target already sells Member's Only.

Who took all the color from Converse?

Have any of you checked out the Converse One Star section in the womens department at Target lately?  If so, then it looks like this: a drab collection of black, navy, and varying shades of gray.  The Converse collection has looked like this for quite a while now, and a quick online search of their mens section shows pretty much the same color palette.  Note to Converse: please bring the color back!  I really like some of your current styles (like this pullover with the asymmetrical hem) but not in boring black or gray.

Cyber Monday is here!

Cyber Monday is here, readers!  Are you shopping online today?  And if so, is Target.com one of your stops?  It looks like Target's "Cyber Sale" actually started yesterday (Sunday) and includes deals like this 46" Westinghouse LCD flatscreen TV for $200 off (at $379.00, regularly $579.00).

Or are you - like me - waiting to spend your money on Target's holiday collab with Neiman-Marcus? [Which, as a reminder, starts this Saturday, Dec. 1st].  I'm curious as to whether this collection will cause the same frenzy as Missoni did, or whether it might fall flat in the midst of holiday sales from other retailers - ? 

Has Gray Thursday replaced Black Friday?

With so many stores - like Target - now kicking their doors open on Thanksgiving Day, the holiday has a new name: Gray Thursday.  But with Walmart workers planning to strike in protest, the backlash has begun against this rampant consumerism. Shown here is a banner ad from JC Penney that a friend of mine posted on Facebook this week.  JCP is leading the charge against the new eat-then-shop holiday, saying it's going to "honor" tradition by closing stores on Thanksgiving and not open until Black Friday.  JCP is even opening its stores two hours later this year - at 6am, vs. 4am last year - and I applaud them for taking this stance.

Tuesday's Rant: Target's 'Find in Store' Feature

On Tuesdays I sometimes 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 "Find in Store" feature on their website... which I've probably ranted about before but it sucks so bad it bears mentioning again.  After finding this Merona wrap sweater dress in Charcoal Gray on clearance at my local store, I really wanted to try to find it in Purple.  So I went to Target's website, plugged in my zipcode and desired color and size, and viola! - the Sunnyvale store supposedly had it in "limited stock".  That's not the closest store to me, but I decided to try it anyhow.  Unfortunately, not only did they not have my size, they didn't have any of these dresses left in ANY color or size.  This isn't the first time this has happened to me; in fact, I can't think of one occasion that the "Find in Store" feature has been correct.  So buyer beware: don't be surprised if this feature doesn't work for you, either.

New at Target: Mickey and Minnie Method

While perusing the Method aisle the other day, I came across these adorable "Micky Mouse" and "Minnie Mouse" foaming hand wash bottles for kids (as well as Disney fans, young and old).  The "Mickey" version comes in Lemonade, and the "Minnie" comes in Strawberry Fizz.  I love the shape of the bottle, and if helps encourage kids to remember to wash their hands, even better.

PS: fans of Method's limited edition with Orla Kiely, take note - there's not much stock left (at least at my local stores) so stock up now while you can.  Method is also selling the Orla versions of its foaming hand wash and gel hand wash on its website (at $3.99 each).

Is Jemma Kidd leaving Target?

Jemma Kidd's beauty brand JK Jemma Kidd seems to be disapparing from Target's shelves, which leads me to believe that the Bullseye is phasing it out.  I snapped this pic of what's left of the collection at the Redwood City, CA store on clearance; the official JK section in the beauty department is already gone.  And like Nouveau Cheap, I saw an entire JK endcap on clearance at another local store.  Jemma Kidd's line has been at Target since 2008, and there still seems to be a few items available (still at full price) on Target.com.  I wonder if the partnership has simply run its course - ?  Whatever the reason, better buy up your favorite items now before they're gone for good.

Target's new holiday ads almost just like their old ones...

Last month I told you that Target has scrapped the "Crazy Christmas Lady" commercials they've used over the past few holiday seasons.  But ironically, Target now has a new series of commercials featuring "The Target Deals Duet", with not one but two perky characters pushing the Bullseye holiday specials.  You can view "Let's Go Together" here on YouTube, and I've seen at least two other commercials with the annoying duo.

Target's 2012 Black Friday Ad...

Thanks to BFAds.net, we can preview Target's Black Friday Ad now (vs. waiting until next week).  Target's full color Black Friday ad flyer contains 32 pages of deals that begin at 9pm on Thanksgiving night, an hour after Walmart and Sears open their doors. At least The Bullseye gives shoppers an extra hour to finish their turkey and pumpkin pie. But like other retailers, Target will stagger its Black Friday deals throughout the evening and early morning hours.

Most of the best deals seem to be on electronics: laptops, cameras, flat screen TVs, etc.  And while many consumer-watch sites out there cite Target's 2012 doorbuster deals nowhere near as good as those at Walmart or Best Buy, Target traditionally has less of a crowd, and less pushing and shoving to get to the best deals. As a result,shoppers feel they have a better chance of finding doorbusters in stock at Target as compared with other stores.

New at Target: Sonia Kashuk's Holiday 2012 Line

Just in time for the holidays, Sonia Kashuk's Holiday 2012 Collection is hitting stores and is already available online at Target.com.  My favorites include (shown from left to right):
* Crown Jewels Elastic Headband
* 24 Karat Brush Set
* Gilded Cage Brush Set
* Formal Affair Face Palette

Fab Find: Mossimo Sequined Sweater

Want something festive - but not too fussy - to wear to those upcoming holiday parties?  Then check out this fab little sequin-trimmed sweater from Mossimo.   In classic cream and white, the sequins look like they're "raining" onto the body of the sweater. Or -  if you crave something more colorful - there's also a cream/orange/gold stripe version.  Either way, you can't go wrong at just $29.99 each. Available in sizes XS-XXL, you can find these folded in the special Holiday endcaps in the Women's department.

Target + Neiman Marcus sponsors Revenge

As a HUGE fan of ABC's hit show Revenge, I was excited to discover this morning that the Target and Neiman-Marcus will be sponsoring this Sunday's episode with limited commercial breaks.  Not only that, but fans will be treated to a show-within-a-show complete with its own plot full of twists and turns.

Target worked directly with the Revenge creative team to develop the five-part vignettes, dubbed “The Gift of Revenge,” to showcase the Target + Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection featuring characters Nolan Ross, Jack Porter, Charlotte Grayson, Declan Porter and Amanda Clarke. The first one (shown above) features Jack Porter and "Amanda Clarke" (aka "Fauxmanda").

And the winner is...

The winner of my latest blog giveaway - for The Curiosity Shoppe at Target pencil case - is reader flutterby! Flutterby's entry was picked by the random number generator over at Random.org. Congrats, flutterby; your prize is on it's way. And thanks again to everyone who entered and for reading my blog!

New at Target: La Mer Wrap Watches

Just in time for the holidays, La Mer Collection has collaborated with Target on a limited edition (and wallet-friendly) line of wrap watches.  The Wanderlust by La Mer Collection includes 16 different styles ranging in price from $39.99 - $49.99, which is a much lower price-point than La Mer's full-priced line which averages $135.

New at Target: Beauty by Bali

Target has teamed up with Hanes to create Beauty by Bali, a new line of affordable and stylish full-support bras available exclusively at Target stores and on Target.com.  Bali Intimates, founded in 1927 and now part of the Hanes family, knows that beauty is a feeling as well as a look. So Target’s team of fit experts joined Bali (with their 85 years of design experience) to create a range of beautiful and supportive bras in sizes 36C to 42DDD.

According to Bali's Brand Marketing representative Vicki Seawright "Bali is about delivering comfort and beauty. Beauty by Bali was designed to feature stunning styles with exceptional fit and comfort through innovative and feminine designs."

So far the collection only contains 4 styles, and IMO the best of the bunch is the lace print one shown here.  And here's a hint: I've only found these bras in stores in a limited range of sizes, so it might be easier to find your particular size online at Target.com.

Target's Black Friday Sale...

Like it or not, people, Thanksgiving is a mere 2 weeks away.  And if you want to get advance notice of Target's holiday sales, then click here to sign up to get their Black Friday Doorbuster deals and Cyber Monday steals.

Sonia Kashuk's tips on helping Superstorm Sandy victims...

Sonia Kashuk (whose line is sold exclusively at Target) has posted an extensive list of ways to help our East Coast friends in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.  I thought this was worth reposting, and please check it out, as there are many local charities you can give to as alternatives to the Red Cross (which is a worthy cause, but just one of many deserving agencies).  Also please consider giving via your company if they have an employee matching program in order to double your contribution.

Reader Giveaway: The Curiosity Shoppe Pencil Case

It's time for another little "reader giveaway" to say "thank you" to all of you out there that continue to read my blog.  This time I'm giving away this cute & colorful pencil case from The Curiosity Shoppe at Target.  I snapped this pic myself because I couldn't find one online, so I'm assuming this is one of The Shops items that was available in-store only. 

To win, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post along with your email address by midnight on Thursday, Nov. 8th. This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only, and the winner (picked at random) will be announced on Friday, Nov. 9th. Good luck!

Fab Find: Sonia Kashuk Haute Hair Sets

Today at Target I stumbled upon some great stocking stuffers: the Sonia Kashuk "Haute Hair" sets.  The one shown here includes a large silver hair barette and 4 studded hair elastics, and the one I bought has a studded head band and two silver hair pins. Best of all, each set is marked down 50% to just $4.98 (from $9.99) although the sale seems to only apply in-stores and not online.

Double-Take: Target vs. TravelSmith

It's time for another double-take, where we take one item from the Bullseye and match it up against a similar - yet pricier - piece.  Since most of the U.S. is settling into winter weather patterns, I thought I'd feature a cozy cape sweater with cable detailing.  Both look comfy to wear, but one is by TravelSmith and will set you back almost $80, while the other is by Merona (at Target) and only costs $29.99.  Can you guess which is which?  The answer appears in the comments section below. 

Target unable to keep up with pre-hurricane demand for supplies...

According to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, Target officials anticipated that Hurricane Sandy was moving up the East Coast and stocked its stores accordingly. But the retailer still couldn't keep up with demand for supplies ahead of the storm.

Target and many other retailers spent days stocking their stores with batteries, flashlights, bottled water and other essentials, but it wasn't enough. "We did our best to plan ahead, but demand just exceeded the pace of replenishment in some areas,” Target spokeswoman Jessica Deede said.

Now that the storm has moved on and cleanup has begun, Target is focused on reopening stores. Target is monitoring road conditions and working with distribution centers and vendors to ensure products can get to the stores when they reopen. By yesterday, the company had reopened about 180 stores on the East Coast, and only three were still closed, including one in the Bronx, N.Y. and two in New Jersey.

Target scraps "crazy Christmas lady" ads...

Bad news for fans of Target's "crazy Christmas lady" ads.  The Bullseye is done with comedian Maria Bamford’s "Crazy Target Lady" Black Friday commercials, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Bamford's character has been featured in the holiday commercials since 2009. She plays a holiday aficionado prepping for sales by doing wind sprints through the store and arm curls with baskets filled with ornaments. Target has replace Bamford's character with their new holiday campaign, “Dream Big, Save Bigger,” starring Bullseye the Dog.

But don't cry for Bamford.  She was featured in two episodes of the FX series “Louie” this past season, playing a comedian who not-so-romantically lands in bed with star Louis C.K. And the Huffington Post recently reported that she'll have a recurring guest spot on the fourth season of “Arrested Development.” The show began filming in August and will air exclusively on Netflix in the spring of 2013.

Fab Find: Kirna Zabete Metallic Jacquard LBD

With the Kirna clearance now in full force, I finally caved and tried on this metallic jacquard dress.  The fabric is pretty thick, so I was afraid the dress would look bulky and add unwanted pounds.  To the contrary, I found this dress to be flattering as well as comfortable, with the added bonus of side pockets (rarely found in dresses these days).  The cinched-waist and full-skirt retro styling reminds me a bit of the pink 'Mad Men Collection' dress from Banana Republic this past Spring.  I bought mine in black - because we can all use another LBD in our closet - but I was tempted to get it in burgundy as well. 

AAA discount on Target.com

AAA members, did you know you're eligible for a discount on Target.com? You can save $10 on each online purchase of $100 or more at Target.com.  Savings are automatically applied at checkout when visiting the retailer's site via AAA.com; click here for more details.

Prabal Gurung on his Target collab...

Style.com has posted a short video interview of designer Prabal Gurung talking about his upcoming collection for Target.  He told Style.com that he’s been dreaming about a collab with the Bullseye for quite a while, revealing that “My first-ever designer Target piece I bought was Proenza [Schouler],”  He continues “I was still in school at the time and I remember telling myself that one day, I hope I get to do this—I remember it so vividly. I have thought about this collaboration for the longest period of time.” And in the video (which you can view here) he says the entire collection was "inspired by love".