Falchi fails to impress...

Today I found the Carlos Falchi for Target collection - out one day early - at my local Target. So, of course, I had to check it out. From my post earlier this week, I pretty much knew what to expect... and true to advance reports, the Falci line failed to impress me. I did buy the bag shown (at $29.99) but only as an "impulse buy", so I'll let you know if it ends up in a future installment of The Returns Department.

Contrary to what's shown, this bag is ALL black, and not a mix of black and gray as the picture suggests. I DO like the punchy print fabric lining inside the bag; it's a fun floral in reds/greens/tans with the Target Bullseye logo thrown in there. This bag (IMO) seemed the most "upscale" of the bunch in that it was made of solid faux snakeskin and didn't have the "pieced together" look. I know that Falchi is known for that, but somehow the faux snake material and the patchwork motif just did not work in the other colors.

More tips from Nina...

Want to learn how to give your look a boost? Then click here to check out Nina Garcia's latest style video on Target.com, where she helps Marci - a busy mother of 3 who usually lives in jeans and t-shirts - to update her look and welcome color, patterns and accessories to her wardrobe.

Consumer Alert: Target recalls Halloween Flashlights

About 610,000 Halloween flashlights - manufactured in China and imported by Target Corp. of Minneapolis - have been recalled because they can overheat and melt. The company has received eight reports of overheated and melted flashlights, including one report of hand burns.

This recall involves two types of Halloween-themed flashlights only sold at Target: the mini flashlights (shown) and flashlights sold with stencils. These flashlights were sold at Target from August 2009 through September 2009 for $1 for the mini flashlights and $2.50 for the flashlights with stencils.

If you have these Halloween flashlights, stop using them immediately and return the product to any Target store for a full refund. For additional information, contact Target at (800) 440-0680 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.target.com.

Job Cuts at Target

Minneapolis-based Target will announce a reorganization of its marketing unit - including layoffs - this afternoon.

“As a part of our normal business practices, Target routinely evaluates all areas of the company to ensure our organizational structure is effective, efficient and nimble, and that our staffing levels meet the changing needs of our business,” the company said in a written statement.

Target already cut 1,000 jobs at its downtown Minneapolis headquarters back in January of this year, laying off 600 workers and eliminating 400 open positions.

Sneak Peek: Rodarte for Target

Nitrolicious has posted more preview pics for the upcoming Rodarte for Target line... and I've got to say, I'm not feeling it. I've posted the most ridiculous of the bunch here, but seriously, I ask you: who would wear this outfit as-is besides Lady GaGa??

Sneak Peek: Carlos Falchi for Target

Target has finally posted some preview pictures of their upcoming Carlos Falchi for Target line. From their website: "Carlos Falchi has redefined the world of luxury handbags. His new lush, inventive pieces for Target bring top-shelf looks at guilt-free low prices."

But for even a better look, check out the look-book posted over at The Budget Babe. I have to say that while all these bags look terrific, seeing them in person will be the true test. Target has been known to skimp-out on their materials in the past, especially with their designer bags. And faux-snakeskin can look particularly "plastic" if not done well. We'll have to wait until the line hits stores on Nov. 1st to see for ourselves.

UPDATE: Reader Monica reports that her local store in Southern California put the Falchi collection out early, and that it is indeed a dissappointment. Likewise, Racked.com found a few Falchi out at the Atlantic Terminal (NY) store, and says "don't expect killer quality".

Sui on Sale

Although there's only a smattering of the Anna Sui collection on sale on Target's web site, the entire line seems to be marked down in-store. At least that's the case at my local Target. And curiously enough, there suddenly seems to be MORE stock than there was before... as if there was extra inventory in back that's now out on the racks. Like this metallic sheath dress (shown) which was one of the more popular pieces and seemed to sell out quickly; there were at least 4 of them on the rack, marked down to around $40 (regularly $59.99).

Pick of the Week

It's Pick of the Week time: each week I pick one great buy from Target's Weekly Ad (in the Sunday newspaper) and highlight it here on my blog. Last week's pick was leggings, and today's pick continues the legwear theme. Just about all women's tights and socks are on sale this week, many for $5 and under. Like these colorful Xhilaration tights (shown) on sale for $5, or Argyle Knee Socks for $4.99. You can preview the sale online, but for the best selection check out your local store, as many styles/colors seem to only be available in-store. I personally am partial to Merona's tights, so I will be heading over to Target today to stock up.

Target joins the book price-wars

Buying a new book at the suggested retail price might become a thing of the past. Last week, Walmart started an online bookseller battle when it announced it would offer 10 bestsellers for $10 each on its web site. Amazon.com promptly matched that deal. And by late Friday, both retailers had dropped their prices again - Walmart to $8.99, and Amazon to $9.

And on Monday, Target joined the fray, offering the same selection for $8.99 on its web site. For two books on the list, Sarah Palin’s “Going Rogue” ($29) and Stephen King’s “Under the Dome” ($35), the online price cut amounts to discounts of 69% and 74% respectively, which is a pretty hefty savings for consumers. Target says the price also applies to pre-orders on Target.com of such books as "Breathless" by Dean Koontz and "Ford Country" by James Patterson.

New at Target: Moody Mamas Maternity

The hip maternity line Moody Mamas (which includes celebrity fans such as Heidi Klum, Jessica Alba and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz) has just launched an affordable capsule collection at Target.com. From comfy loungewear to gorgeous dresses, stylish moms-to-be will have everything they need to look good during their pregnancy — and at prices everyone will love.

Designed by 20-something designers Marta Abrams and Elise Rosemarin, the line is full of chic pieces that you can wear at home or at work. The collection is exclusively available online, and right now you can snap up this Jersey Ruffle Wrap (shown here) for just $39.99.

Bring a bag, save 5-cents

Target has announced it will give customers a 5-cent credit each time they use a reusable bag when making purchases at its stores. Target's 5-cent credit applies per bag used but does not apply to plastic or paper bags from Target or other retailers. Minneapolis-based Target operates more than 1,600 stores in 47 states nationwide.

"This is definitely the largest and most mainstream retailer to do this," said Doug Fleener, a Boston-area consultant and former Bose Corp. retail director.

In similar moves, Texas-based Whole Foods offers grocery customers 10-cents off for bringing in bags of any type. Trader Joe's, based in California, offers incentives that vary by store, including a drawing for a bag of free groceries or a gift card. And last year, Swedish retailer Ikea eliminated disposable bags in its U.S. stores entirely. Only Ikea reusable blue bags are available, in 59-cent or 99-cent versions.

Gaultier a go!

According to Racked.com (by way of WWD), Gaultier for Target is officially a go! The collection will go on sale on March 7th, 2010 online and in about 250 Target stores. By comparison, Anna Sui's recent capsule collection was sold in about 600 stores. Not sure why Gaultier's collection will be almost 1/3 smaller in distribution; perhaps to make it more "exclusive"? Target told WWD: "Jean Paul Gaultier for Target pays tribute to the American woman, celebrating the forces of style both past and present in American pop culture."

Pick of the Week

It's Pick of the Week time: each week I pick one great buy from Target's Weekly Ad (in the Sunday newspaper) and highlight it here on my blog. Today's pick is a trip down memory lane for me... 20 years ago, leggings were a staple of my wardrobe. And this week, Target has basic leggings by Mossimo on sale for just $5 each. Five dollars! I don't think I even found them that cheap back in 1989!! I'll have ask my BFF, Kara; she'll remember.

And speaking of Kara... this post is dedicated to her. We had our 20 year college reunion this weekend, and I didn't go :-( Sorry, Kara. Part of me wishes I had, but part of me is relieved I didn't. I hope you had fun. Remember when we wore leggings? Remember when you borrowed my oversized red denim shirt to wear over your leggings to that keg party? I'll stop there; you remember the rest ;-)

A Good Economic Indicator?

It used to be – during the boom times – that Target would come out with catalogs several times a year for those of us that are Target RedCard holders. They were colorful and fun to thumb through, like the one shown at left from last Fall. But everything changed about a year ago with the economic downturn. I still get direct mailers from them every once in a while that push coupons for Coke and Clorox, but that’s about it.

So I was delighted this week to receive a brand new catalog called “Festively Frugal Fall Entertaining”. It’s filled with tips from Target’s in-house designers Thomas O’Brien, Michael Graves, Rachel Ashwell (of Simply Shabby Chic) and Christiane Lemieux (of DwellStudio). There’s also recipes, decorating ideas, and even a $5 gift card for a Home Purchase of $50 or more.

I know we’re not out of the woods of this recession yet, but I still think it’s a good sign that Target has brought their catalogs back.

Too late for Halloween...

The Rodarte for Target Go International collection won't hit stores until Dec. 20th. That makes this black sequin-embellished mini-dress - with an image of a ribcage printed on the front - too late to use as your Halloween costume. But if you're so inclined, I guess you could still wear it to a Holiday party or on New Year's Eve.

Besides posting this preview picture, Nitrolicious also reports that a Target spokesperson has described the collection as “very feminine, yet very modern and incorporates a rich mix of patterns and fabrications and everything from sequins and bows to faux fur”.

Wednesday’s Rave: Sonia Kashuk Travel Brush Set

Today’s rave is this Sonia Kashuk Brushed to Perfection Travel Brush Set. It includes six makeup brushes with soft, synthetic bristles and lightweight handles, all housed in a portable pink-printed case. And best of all: in support of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, fifteen percent of the purchase price (of $19.99) will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Marcel Wanders for Target

A new collection of home décor pieces by Netherlands designer Marcel Wanders is set to roll out to Target stores in time for the holiday selling season. The line encompasses giftable items, most priced at $25 or less.

Titled Marcel Wanders for Target, the new limited-edition tabletop and home decor collection portrays the designer’s whimsical style on the more than 40 decorative pieces, such as dinnerware, ceramic vases, pillar candles, stockings, ornaments and wrapping paper. Prices will range from $2.99 for place card holders to $39.99 for a tree skirt.

Check out Marcel Wanders' official website, and you'll see that he has quite a quirky design aesthetic. The vase at left (from his full-price line) is in fact from his “snotty” collection and is based on – no lie – a “3D scan of airborne snot”. One of the 5 vases in this collection is in fact called “Influenza”. Talk about quirky!

New at Target: Color Theory

Target has a new in-house designed Go International collection called “Color Theory”. It’s built around bright, primary colors like Violet, Hot Pink, Cosmic Blue, Forever Green and Lemon Yellow, paired with lots of Basic Black. While I welcome the infusion of color – as I am personally trying to add more brights to my mainly dark wardrobe – I’m not so sure about some of these colors and prints. The colors seem a bit acidic for my taste. And the patterns – like oversize herringbone and wide rugby stripes – scream “1985” to me.

Pick of the Week

It's Pick of the Week time: each week I pick one great buy from Target's Weekly Ad (in the Sunday newspaper) and highlight it here on my blog. Today's pick is all about Halloween decor and partyware, as THE day is soon approaching and Target seems to have their entire selection on sale this week. Like these decorative placemats ($2.50) and gauze table runner ($4.00) pictured here, which are both on sale this week. Target also has holiday centerpieces starting at just $2.50, serving bowls and trays (at $8.50 and $4.50) and novelty molds and ice cube trays at 15% off. Plus Target has several candy-favorites - like snack size Kit-Kats, Butterfingers, M&M's and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups - on sale this week for 2 bags for $5.

And to help you plan your Halloween party or gathering, check out this video on Target.com for easy entertaining ideas for a spooktacular holiday bash.

Doggone Cute Halloween Costumes

I personally am not a fan of dressing up pets (for Halloween or otherwise) but if you must, Target is a good place to look. Their website offers a greater selection of pet costumes than their actual stores, and better variety and quality than many pet stores. In fact Target.com has a fairly large number of highly rated pet costumes in the ten-dollar range. Their Pet Lobster and Pet Banana costumes- both just $9.99- are absolutely adorable, as is the “Hot Dog” one shown here.

Issac gets the short end of the stick...

I almost cried last year when Isaac Mizrahi announced he was leaving Target. Then, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw his first designs for Liz Claiborne, and even more so after seeing the punchy new advertising for his line featured on the Bargain Bex blog a couple of weeks ago. But alas, today comes news that Liz Claiborne has reached an agreement to sell its namesake clothing brand and Claiborne-branded merchandise exclusively at J.C. Penney stores as part of a strategy to lift its wholesale brands to profitability in 2010. And, the company also announced that the Liz Claiborne New York brand designed by Isaac Mizrahi will be moved to the QVC home shopping network and out of department stores entirely. WTF?? Poor Isaac. I'm sure he didn't realize he'd be hawking his designs on TV when he inked his deal with Liz.

Target to slash toy prices in half for the holidays

Target announced yesterday that it will lower prices on toys by as much as 50%, in advance of the holidays. This includes such popular offerings such as Barbie, G. I. Joe, and Fisher Price toys.

The news follows Walmart's announcement last week that it will offer 100 toys for $10 during the holiday season. Last year, the company only offered 10 toys at this price range.

Meanwhile, privately held Toys 'R' Us is also gearing up for the holidays by hiring more than 30,000 seasonal workers and opening temporary pop-up stores nationwide.

Wednesday's Rave: new Lume Luxe candles at Target

Regular readers of this blog will know that I’m over-the-moon for Target’s Lume Luxe candles. They are highly fragrant, beautifully packaged, and attractively priced. They disappeared from store shelves for a while, but then Target brought them back earlier this year.

And lo and behold, now Target has introduced 5 new scents. There's Ocean & Sea Salt, White Fig, Black Amber, Wild Herb Cassis, and Blackberry Creme. After testing them in-store, I’m partial to the Blackberry Crème one (shown) which smells almost identical to Trish McEvoy's Wild Blueberry Vanilla candle. But at just $12.99, the Lume Luxe version is a fraction of McEvoy’s (which is $48).

Tuesday's Rant: Target copies Coach (again...)

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 news that Target is being sued for copying designs from Coach, Inc. In a complaint filed last Thursday, Coach stated that it wants Target to stop selling the bags and pay an undetermined amount in damages, injunctive relief and attorney fees.

The bags in question resemble Coach's Ergo bags, launched in 2008 and marketed as ergonomically correct, and its Signature Patchwork bags (like the one shown here) which have patches in different fabrics and also were introduced in 2008.

Target began selling handbags this past summer with "exact and/or confusingly similar reproductions of Coach's Ergo designs and Signature Patchwork designs," Coach claims. However, a quick search of Target’s site doesn’t turn up any of the bags in question, so my assumption is that Target has already stopped selling them pending this lawsuit.

Ironically, Coach also sued Minneapolis-based Target back in 2006 for the very same reason, claiming the retailer was selling a copy of one of its handbags. The companies settled that previous case, but you’d think Target would have enough sense to avoid copying products from a company that already sued you once.

Pick of the Week

It's Pick of the Week time: each week I pick one great buy from Target's Weekly Ad (in the Sunday newspaper) and highlight it here on my blog. Today's pick is a variety of women's sweaters from Merona and Mossimo, on sale this week for just $15 each. And perfect timing, too, as there's definitely been a chill in the air these past few days. I have my eye on the argyle one, and will be heading over to Target later today to check it out in person.

Plaid: Yay or Nay?

As I wrote about a couple of months ago, I'm not so sure I can get on board with this season's craze for anything and everything plaid. In Nina Garcia's latest video on Target's StyleBoutique, she fully embraces this trend, predicting "you’ll see plaid in lots of silhouettes and colors this fall."

As with her last 2 videos, she makes her test subjects look super stylish and up-to-date. I just personally can't warm up to this trend, having lived through it once already in the early 1990's. What about you folks out there? Will you (or have you already) fallen "mad for plaid"?

New Starbuck’s Via to be sold at Target

Starbucks, the company that built its reputation on selling pricy espresso-drinks, now wants to turn folks on to its version of instant coffee. In their biggest product launch to date, Starbucks will start selling its new Via instant coffee packets at all of its U.S. and Canadian stores this week, backing it with a nationwide television advertising and merchandising blitz. Via will also be sold at other select retailers, including Target.

Starbucks first unveiled its instant coffee offering earlier this year, selling the product online and at its stores in Seattle, Chicago, and London. For a company that got people hooked on $3 lattes, instant coffee seems at odds with its premium image. But Starbucks has supposedly been developing the product for almost 20 years, waiting to concoct an instant coffee that was close in taste to its regular brew.

For a review of how Via stacks up to regular Starbuck’s coffee, check out The Recessionista’s take on it. She thinks Via is pretty darn good! And today through Oct. 5th, you can test it yourself. All Starbucks stores will be hosting taste tests this Friday through Monday. You'll be able to taste the Columbia Starbucks Via instant coffee next to their fresh-brewed Pike Peak blend. Best of all, taste test participants will receive a coupon for a free tall brewed coffee on a future Starbucks visit and $1 off a Via purchase.

Britney Spears hearts Target

Perez Hilton posted this picture of Britney Spears shopping at Target on Wednesday. Looks like Brit hearts the Bullseye as much as I do! What do you suppose she bought??

The Returns Department...

I hope this doesn't turn into a regular feature here on my blog, but from time to time I DO return items to Target that at first I was in love with. So in the spirit of full disclosure, I bring you the first installment of The Returns Department.

A couple of weeks ago I bought this Pleated Tulle Dress by Anna Sui, and at first I was smitten. I even tried the dress on in store to make sure I liked it, and was convinced it was a "hit". And I wasn't the only one who liked it, as it seems to have sold out already on Target.com.

But alas, upon reflection - and trying it on again in the comfort of my own home - I now realize it is a "miss". The dress still is super cute, IMO, but just not cute enough on ME to warrant keeping it. Therefore, I'll be returning it this week.

BTW: Angie from the YouLookFab blog gives similar advice in this piece for The Today Show (see video below). She advises that "if you get it home, and don't absolutely love it, then return it!". I couldn't agree more.

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