Some cancelled Missoni orders show up... for free!

Some of you have notified me that all of a sudden, "missing Missoni" items ordered back in September - which you thought would never arrive - have shown up at your door. And indeed, The Cut is reporting that one of their readers not only got his missing order, but that Target is giving it to him for free! Their source (who ordered the Missoni for Target espresso set, shown here) received the following email from Target:

Thank you for your patience and continued support with regard to your Missoni for Target order. Your Missoni item(s) have now shipped and we want to let you know that you will not be invoiced for the item(s) listed below.

If you do not wish to keep the below item(s) please donate them to a local charity or shelter of your choice rather than returning them to Target.

Their source was informed months ago that this very same order had been canceled... and in addition to a full refund, he also received gift certificates from Target for his trouble. So basically, Target paid him for his (albeit very late!) Missoni order.

JC Penney takes a page out of Target's playbook...

Is JC Penney trying to tap into Target's merchandising and marketing success to become the new leader of "cheap & chic" retailing? It certainly seems that way. Taking a page out of Target's playbook, they've not only hired the Bullseye's former Chief Marketing Officer (Michael Francis) as their new president, but now they've hired their award-winning former ad agency as well. The MSP Business Journal is reporting that JC Penney has hired Peterson Milla Hooks, the agency responsible for Target's iconic campaigns, and have ditched their longtime agency Saatchi & Saatchi. As I told you a few months ago, Target dropped Peterson Milla Hooks back in May, which I find puzzling as they produced so many catchy and memorable campaigns for the retailer. Hopefully they'll create the same sort of marketing magic for JC Penney.

Moms stage national demonstration at Target

A nursing mother’s upsetting experience at her local Target last month has led to “nurse-in” demonstrations at Target stores today nationwide.

Mothers from across the country have posted pictures of themselves nursing at Target stores — from Maryland to Minnesota — to a Facebook page used to organize the event.
“I never knew that sitting in a Target and doing what’s normal — which is feeding my baby — would result in all of this one day but I’m glad it did,” said Michelle Hickman, the woman who inspired the event, according to ABCNews.com.

Last month at a Webster, Texas Target store, Hickman began nursing her fussy, hungry infant son in the store’s women’s clothing section. Hickman, 35, said that eight Target employees eventually surrounded her and two asked her to move to a fitting room to finish nursing. The other employees, she said, rolled their eyes at her and gave her dirty looks.

Hickman said she tried explaining that Texas law allowed her to breastfeed in public, but the employees wouldn’t listen. Hickman said she later called Target’s corporate offices but was disatisfied with their response. She said the retailer has yet to apologize to her directly.

In a statement to ABCNews.com, Target said that it supports the use of fitting rooms for breastfeeding — even if other customers are waiting to use the rooms — but also that “guests who choose to breastfeed in public areas of the store are welcome to do so without being made to feel uncomfortable.”

Hickman, who is calling for a national law to protect women’s rights to breastfeed in public, said the nationwide demonstration was organized by fellow moms with whom she shared her experience. Hickman - shown here on the left - participated at a nurse-in this morning at the same Target store where the November incident took place. She was joined by an estimated 50 other mothers.

“It felt great, it’s nice to see us all just coming together,” said Kelly Roth, 29, of Lake City, Texas, one of the organizers. “We shouldn’t have to sit at home or in a bathroom to nurse. Babies shouldn’t have to wait.”

Missoni for Target now showing up at Goodwill

As I had feared, any current Missoni for Target returns to stores are now being donated to Goodwill outlets vs. being sold at Target. Which means if you're waiting for any unwanted Missoni Christmas gifts to show up in stores, you're out of luck. Why did I suspect this? Because Target has a 90-day return policy, and the first day of the Missoni-madness was back on Sept. 13th. That would have made the 90-day mark around Dec. 13th, and Target's policy (which I first wrote about back in 2009) is to donate unsold merchandise to Goodwill stores around the country. A recent eBay discussion thread has proven my theory correct, with Missoni items starting to show up at Goodwill as of last week.

Sale Alert: Josie Natori for Target

The first wave of the Josie Natori for Target line now seems to be on sale in stores for 30% off. I say "first wave" because Josie is doing two capsule collections for the Bullseye: the first one was a Holiday edition, and the second one will be for Valentine's Day. Note, however, that the sale seems limited to stores only, as the Josie line is still full priced on Target.com.

From what I saw at my local store, the sleepwear was pretty much gone; most of what was left included bras, briefs, and cami sets (like the one shown here).

Target's After-Christmas Clearance starts today at 7am...

Good morning, dear readers! Are you up and out already this morning hitting the post-Christmas sales? I, for one, am not. But if you're game, Target's after-Christmas clearance starts this morning at 7am. I perused their weekly ad this morning, and it seems like pretty standard fare, including lots of storage products (to box up all those x-mas decorations, wreaths and ornaments) and office organizing tools (like calendars, paper shredders and desk accessories). Even post-holiday they have some deals on electronics, including TVs, sound systems, cameras, phones and game systems. And they're having a $20 Mossimo denim sale for juniors and a sale on all Gilligan & O'Malley and Xhilaration bras. For all the details, check out Target's weekly ad online.

Target's ten-dollar Christmas coupon

Seasons Greetings! I'm happy to report that my dress from Target was a hit last night, and my husband gave me one of my gifts early - this sleek Michael Kors ring - which was the perfect accessory. And speaking of Target: they're running a promo on their website for today only in which you get $10 off your order of $50 or more. Again, this offer is for today only, and some restrictions apply, so check Target.com for all the details.

The dress that saved the day...

Merry Christmas, dear readers! I hope you're all having a very merry holiday. Tonight we're going to my Aunt’s annual X-mas Eve festivities, and while I had HOPED to wear my new sapphire blue BCBG dress (acquired on eBay over a week and a half ago) I guess the US Postal Service has let me down, as the tracking information for my package lists it as still “stuck in transit” :-(

So in comes Target to the rescue! I went there yesterday to pick up a few last minute items, and was lucky enough to find this Mossimo wrap dress on clearance for 75% off! (marked down to a paltry $8.98). I plan to wear it with black tights and tall boots, and accessorize it with gold or copper jewelry. [Note that although Target’s website lists it as “orange and black”, the print is actually copper/black, as noted on the hang-tag].

Happy Holidays!

Sale Alert: Dana Kellin for Target

While it's too late to order in time for Christmas, I did notice that Target's web site just put the Dana Kellin jewelry line on sale. I was in Target yesterday, and the sale didn't seem to be happening in stores, so for now the price reduction is just online. At 30% off, these Multicolor Charm Drop Earrings are only $10.49... which is a great buy, although you have to buy at least $50 worth of merchandise to get free shipping. So if you factor that in, you might as well wait until the collection goes on sale in stores.

UPDATE: it looks like this sale was only through 12/24. Then on Christmas Day, the collection wasn't on sale at all, and as of 12/26, some items are on clearance online, and others (like these earrings) are not. Very frustrating!

Target's last-minute "It Gifts" for Gals

Finally, here are some nifty-gift ideas for your sister, girlfriend, BFF, or any other important gal in your life. First up are these cozy suede and faux-shearling mittens by Mossimo ($19.99). For a fab stocking stuffer, try Essie's Nail Color (under $8 each) in a wide-array of hues. Merona's Fair Isle Cardigan sweater (around $22) is a classically fashionable choice; I have to admit that I saw this in the store the other day and almost bought it for myself! And you can't go wrong with a basic black satchel by Merona ($24.99).

Target's last minute "It Gifts" for Little Kids

Topping kids' gift lists is usually one word: TOYS. But why not break the trend with some educational, crafty, and practical items instead?

For creative kids, Roseart's ColorBlanks Coloring set includes plastic "blank slate" figurines to drawn on and decorate using the included mini-marker pens and sticker sheets (under $15). For curious kids, try the LeapFrog Leapster Learing Game Systerm for hours of interactive fun, where younger children to learn basic shape- and letter-recognition and beginning reading skills (around $70). To keep babies warm, pick up Carter's Infant Union Suit in a festive holiday bear print (just $7.99). And to keep kids fashionable, pick up Toddler Girls' pink oxfords by Converse One Star ($17.99, in assorted colors) and Boys' Half-zip Fleece Sweaters by C9 for Champion ($12.99 each).

Added incentive to use Target Gift Cards on Dec. 26th...

Racked.com is reporting that Target's Post-Christmas Sale begins at 7AM on Dec. 26 with savings on regular products of up to 50% off. Pretty standard fare for post-Chrismas sales. But the REAL news is that guests who redeem their Target gift cards on Dec. 26 will receive $10 off purchases of $50 or more. I guess Target is trying to lure shoppers into stores to use their gift cards as soon as possible after the holiday so they can close the year out with increased sales.

Double-Take: Pottery Barn vs. Target

It's time for another double-take, where we take one item from Tar-jay and pair it up with a similar designer piece. And this is a warm and cozy one, dear readers! One of these warm chenille throws is from Pottery Barn, and will set you back almost $60. The other is from Target, and is actually half that price: just $27 this week (down from $34.99). Both are done up in a plush, chevron pattern, and come in a variety of colors. Which one is which? Read the comments section to find out.

Target's last-minute "It Gifts" for Men

Stumped by what to get the favorite man in your life? Whether you're shopping for dad, brother, or boyfriend, Target has classic gifts for all the men on your list.

Leather dress gloves by Merona are a thoughtful (and practical) gift, and will only set you back $21.99. Or how about these comfy moccasin slippers for just $19.99? And if you want to update his wardrobe, try a festive plaid tie ($19.99) or a sporty Converse One Star navy sweater ($32.99).

Target's last-minute "It Gifts" for Mom

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet, dear readers? Or are you among the approximate 46% of Americans who leave all their shopping for the last few days before Christmas? If you fall into the latter camp, then there's still time to pick up some goodies at Target. Target's Tumblr page has listed some "It Gifts" for the important people in your life (picked by Target's Style Director Nina Garcia) which I'll recap for you here.

First off are gifts for mom. Cashmere gloves and scarves (each $24.99) plus hats ($19.99) are always a safe bet, especially if she lives in a cold climate. Nick & Nora's fleece-lined robe in a trendy leopard print is a great choice for the fashionable mom. And if you need a cute (and practical) stocking stuffer, try this manicure set by Burt's Bees (under $12).

Shaun White Home Line to debut at Target

Hot on the heels of their successful collaboration with Missoni, the next designer-inspired home collection at Target will be from... Shaun White?? Yes, as odd as it sounds, it's true: the premiere collection of the Shaun White Home Line is set to hit Target stores right after Christmas. The collection, which is the next evolution of the successful Shaun White apparel, accessory and shoe partnership with Target, features a variety of items to fully furnish a kid's room.

"It's been a fun process creating a home product line with Target," said Shaun. "We got our first crack at interior design when my brother Jesse and I worked on the Living Room for Target House at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. So, we jumped at the chance to give home design a shot and came up with stuff that we would've loved to have when we were growing up."

The debut home line is a limited-time only collection that includes bedding, lamps, wall decals, curtains, storage bins, a skateboard rack and piggy banks. Similar to other Shaun White for Target items, the home line is co-designed by Shaun and his brother Jesse, reflecting Shaun's personality, drawing on his love of skateboarding, snowboarding, travel and music. Items will be in stores starting December 26th through June 2012.

Target's Nina Garcia on doing winter style right

Racked.com recently interviewed Nina Garcia - Target's in-house style consultant, Marie Claire's fashion director, and Project Runway judge - about how to do winter style right. Among her tips, she hyped a few Target products, shown here. For dressing up for holiday parties without breaking the bank, she said she "found the cutest charcoal sequined clutch for $17!" (by Xhilaration). And for cozy cold-weather style, she loves the faux-fur Albertus Swanepoel for Target "Layla" hat.

Double-Take: Merona vs. Tory Burch

It's time for another double-take, dear readers, where we take one item from Tar-jay and pair it up with a similar designer piece. Now both of these nifty pairs of flats sport a black-patent cap toe with a fun leopard-print. But one is by Tory Burch, and will run you a hefty $118 (which is actually reduced 40% from the regular price of almost $200!). And the other pair is by good 'ol Merona (at Target) and is also on sale....for just $17.48! (down from $24.99). Which one is which? The answer appears below in the comments section.

Tangerine Dreams...

Refinery29 reports that "Tangerine Tango" was picked last week by the Pantone Color Institute as the top color for 2012. Described as a hue that "emanates heat and energy," this reddish-orange shade is already a super-popular accent color favored by designers and stylists, and such an optimistic, juicy shade that Refinery29 calls it "both girly and tomboyish at the same time."

Refinery29 pairs the color chip with an Oasis Striped Sweater ($84) and a Proenza Schouler Tangerine Leather Bag ($1,595) but I've added a more affordable option: Mossimo's Back Zipper Dress (in Hot Orange) for just $22.49 at Target.com.

Target's Spring 2012 Fashion Preview

Target's corporate blog - A Bullseye View - has posted a "behind-the-scenes" sneak-peek video of their Spring 2012 Apparel and Accessories collection. Shot in early November, it gave fashion editors a chance to preview the spring lines from brands exclusive to Target like Mossimo, Merona, C9 by Champion, Liz Lange for Target, Converse One Star, and Xhilaration. They hyped it as an event where "color stole the show for spring as the venue was transformed into a bright and fun showroom". I say "meh" - same old stripes, polka dots, plaids and maxi dresses that they trot out every Spring.

And the winner ...

...of my latest blog giveaway - for these fab Missoni gloves, as shown here on the model - is reader Jennifer! Jennifer's entry was picked by the random number generator over at Random.org. Jennifer, I've already emailed you for your address; as soon as I get it, I can mail these out to you. And thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway and who continue to read my blog; I really appreciate it!

Reader Giveaway: Missoni for Target gloves

Seasons Greetings, readers! Are you surviving the holiday madness? I am, but barely ;-) Since I won't be blogging as much as usual during this hectic month, I've decided to offer up a reader giveaway to say "thank you" to all of you who continue to read my blog. This time around, I'm giving away a lovely pair of Missoni for Target elbow-length gloves in "Passione Purple" (NWT, of course). To win, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post along with your email address by Thursday, Dec. 8th. This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only, and the winner (picked at random) will be announced on Friday, Dec. 9th. Good luck!

Who's actually wearing Missoni for Target?

I had a thought the other day as I wore my purple chevron-striped Missoni for Target scarf to work: who's actually wearing this stuff? Most of the goods sold out in the first day, yet I haven't seen it worn by any "real" people (besides myself) except for two instances: this cute minidress (shown) on A) a 20-something blonde woman at the San Francisco airport, and B) on fellow blogger Lemondrop Marie, who owns not only this dress but several other Missoni pieces. But other than that, nothing. You'd think you'd spot someone at the mall or the grocery store or ANYWHERE sporting the iconic zig-zag pattern. What about you, dear readers? Have you seen any Missoni out there in the wild?