New at Target: Nate Berkus Spring 2015 Collection

If you've visited your local Target store this week, you've probably noticed all the seasonal stuff cleared out to make way for storage bins and home organization essentials. You may have also noticed the new Spring 2014 collection from Nate Berkus trickling in, which Refinery29 aptly describes as having the "vibe of Don Draper going interiors shopping in Arizona. It's sleek-modern married to natural-Southwestern." Plan on seeing lots of wall hangings, airy geometric sculptures and raffia baskets.

You can check out all of Nate's offerings here on Target.com.

Target Ad features child with Down syndrome...

Did you happen to catch this adorable toddler playing with an activity cube and sporting a pink ruffled dress in Target's Weekly Ad a couple of weeks ago? With soft blonde locks and a sparkling smile, Izzy Bradley of Minnesota has the look of a model but she’s an unlikely choice because she has Down syndrome.

SFGate reports that Target reached out to the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network and selected Izzy for the ad from a several candidates. Izzy’s mother, Heather Davis, told CBS that she was thrilled Target chose her daughter.

“I really appreciate Target’s policy of including them in their ads. I think it really helps normalize Down syndrome and helps people to see we’re really just like any other family.” Davis also shared that she’s heard from people all over the world about the ad. “I’m really surprised at how much excitement has come from it. On Facebook, one sit it’s got up to a half million likes.”

This isn’t the first time Target has featured a child with Down syndrome in an ad. In 2012 they featured an 11-year-old boy named Ryan, one of the first kids with down Syndrome to launch a modeling career.

Final Day: Extra 20% off Clearance on Target.com

Today is the last day to save an extra 20% off clearance items on Target.com. This promo has been running since Friday, and applies to all clearance clothing, shoes and accessories. Just use the promo code "EXTRA20" at checkout.

In stores it looks like they're running the same promo BUT you have to download the coupon to your smartphone to get the extra discount. And IMO, there are better deals online. Case in point: this "Lucy" top by Converse One Star, which I ordered yesterday for $17.98 plus an additional 20% off with the promo code. In stores, they're still full price at $29.99.

Target's "Seasonal Shipping" fails to deliver...

Good morning readers! Did everyone have a happy holiday? And if you ordered items online from Target, did you get them on time? I, for one, did not. Target's so-called "Seasonal Shipping" - which was supposed to arrive by 12/24 if you ordered by the 12/20 cutoff - didn't deliver for me. Oddly enough, one order I made on the 18th arrived on the 23rd, whereas another order I made on the 17th hasn't shown up yet (and according to the UPS tracking # is scheduled to arrive today). I never received an email stating "your item is delayed", either, as Target usually sends when there is a lag in shipping. Anyone else out there have this problem?

NYE Style on Target.com

Most of us are so focused on getting through Christmas that we haven't had a chance to think about New Year's Eve yet. But Target.com wants to change that with an offer of 15% off "NYE Style" on their site, with savings on a variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. Just enter the promo code NYE15 at checkout.

A quick perusal of the women's offerings looks like it's a mix of new items (like the sparkly tops shown here) as well as a hodgepodge of festive clothing already on clearance (now with this extra 15% off). And if anything strikes your fancy, better order soon in order to ensure delivery by NYE.

Beware of Target's buggy "Store Pickup" tool...

Buyer beware when trying to use Target's "Store Pickup" tool, which they were hyping today on their website with the offer of "last-minute gifts up to 40% off."  Why, you ask? Because 9 times out of 10, the tool won't work.

In the last week, I've tried to purchase 6 various items using this tool. And it only worked once. All the other times, the tool stated the item was available at my chosen store, put in my cart, and reserved. Twice, I got a confirmation that my item was ready to pick up in store. Thank goodness I didn't head over there, as later in the day I got a "cancellation notice" that my item was "no longer available", with no reason given. And the other three times, the item was "cancelled" via email before I got my confirmation email. And this glitch was not confined to just one location; this happened to me with 4 different Target stores. Bottom line: make sure you have your confirmation email (or text) in hand before heading to Target to actually purchase an item you've "bought" via Store Pickup.

Target testing "vignette" home decor model...

The Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal reports that Target is experimenting with a new home-decor layout that eschews aisles in favor of open showroom-like areas that display how products would look in a room. The test launched Nov. 8 in Target's Northeast Minneapolis store — where it does many of its pilot programs — and hasn't been introduced elsewhere yet.

"The test is designed to showcase Target's home product in a lifestyle setting to allow our guests to image how the products might look in their own homes," said company spokeswoman Amy Goetz.

One example (pictured here) has a rug that looks like wood and wooden tables and benches filled with holiday decor. In a normal Target store, all those items - the rug, lamps, tables, etc. - would be available for sale in different aisles.

This "vignette" tactic seems to be following a similar trend Target is trying in its clothing department by using mannequins to showcase complete outfits. Overall it seems like Target is trying to look more "department store" than "big box retailer".

Sale Alert: Orla Kiely for Target

Remember the latest Orla Kiely for Target collab I told you about back in October? This time offering yoga equipment, water bottles, and luggage? Well now it's on sale for 20% off, just in time for Christmas gifting.

As for where to find it in store: I've had a hard time spotting it, as have some of you readers out there who responded to my post in October. If your store has the yoga stuff, it should be the rest of the Sporting Goods. I have yet to find any of the luggage, however.

The Look for Less: Mossimo vs. Michael Kors

This isn't quite a double-take - as the red hues of each sweater are different shades - but I was still struck by the similarities by these two front-zippered cardigans. The red cardigan on the left is from Michael Kors (now sold out at Dillard's) retailing for $89.50. But you can get the look for much less with the ruby cardigan on the right from Mossimo (at Target) for just $29.99 (currently on sale for $20.99).

New at Target: JACHS

On Black Friday I stayed home (vs. braving the mall) but I did shop online at Target.com. It was there that I got a great deal on flannel sleep pants for my boys, just $10 each (regularly $19.99, and now priced at $15.99). When they arrived in the mail the other day, I looked at the label - JACHS - and since it was a brand I wasn't familiar with, I did some investigating...

JACHS NY was started in 2008 with the idea that "artistry and intricate attention to detail should make clothing effortless to wear." A mainly online retailer, they also have a storefront on Bleeker Street in NYC. According to their website, they "design fabrics from scratch and apply them to contemporary silhouettes inspired by vintage American styles. We are constantly experimenting with fabrics and innovating techniques in our local wash house to transform the most unique, comfortable, and wearable clothing. Our philosophy is simple. A person should look great without really trying."

The JACHS flannel pants I ordered are thicker, softer and of better quality than the usual flannel sleep pants sold at Target. In perusing Target's website, it looks like their JACHS offerings are limited to mainly sleep pants and flannel shirts (with a smattering of men's pants and blazers thrown in). From what I can tell, JACHS NY flannel shirts usually retail for about $89, but Target's version (like this one shown) go for $49.99 (on sale this week for just $34.99).

New at Target: Mensch on a Bench

You’ve heard of Elf on a Shelf, but what about Mensch on a Bench? This new Hanukkah tradition first came to life due to “elf envy,” says Mensch on a Bench founder and author Neal Hoffman, who wanted a fun way to teach his sons about the Jewish holiday. He became a Kickstarter success story in 2013 after hitting his $22,000 fundraising goal and selling 1,000 Mensches in less than two weeks.

The doll — dubbed Moshe the mensch (mensch is the Yiddish word for someone of noble character) — watches over the menorah and holds onto the shamash (the “helper” or ninth candle) throughout each night of Hanukkah. Legend has it that if kids have been good, the Mensch will let go of the shamash candle when the parents light the Hanukkah candles, but if the kids have misbehaved, he will hold on tight!

Now in its second year of production, Mensch on a Bench is available at Target stores and on Target.com. Pick up your very own Mensch on a Bench before Hanukkah begins on Dec. 16.

Fab Find: Joules Rainboots

Remember the wellies (rainboots) by Joules that I told you about back in October? Well I went ahead and bought the navy pair with gold trim (pictured here) and I have to say this is my favorite purchase from Target in a long time! Not only are they well made, but they're comfy, too, with lots of padding and cushioning in the footbed.  If you're in between sizes, order up (as I did) as they only come in whole sizes. And right now, Target is offering 'Buy One, Get One 50% Off" on all Joules boots and boot socks.

Target's "Cyber Week"

Target keeps pushing sales online with what they're dubbing "Cyber Week" in their Weekly Online Ad - a whole week of savings vs. just the traditional Cyber Monday. Nonetheless, The Bullseye is also running specials good for today only, like 'Buy One, Get One 60% Off' on all clothing, shoes and accessories.

At this point, you might have better luck - and a greater selection - by shopping online. I was at my local Target store yesterday, and already the offerings seemed to be picked over. I also noticed the womens department was pushing a depressing monochromatic palette of blacks, greys, creams, and blush, with very few bright colors in sight.

Will you brave Black Friday, or shop online?

Examiner.com reports that Target apparently sent an email out to customers yesterday (which I didn't get) with the clever title “You don’t have to wait online". It seems they will offer many of the same deals on their website on Thanksgiving day that they will offer later that night in stores and early on Black Friday morning. And if the item or items you want are on sale online and would ship to you for free, then why not buy it online and sleep in Friday morning?

If you still plan on going shopping on Thanksgiving night or Friday morning, Target also has that new app I told you about last week to help shoppers with maps of their stores and to get you to the item you want faster. The interactive app will lead you directly to the department or area you need to get to and quickly. To see the Target Black Friday 2014 ad or for information about the Target app, click here.

Meanwhile, Target is having plenty of deals even before Thanksgiving, like this cozy C9 by Champion Microfleece Pullover (available in a variety of colors) on sale for just $11.99 (regularly $19.99).

TOMS sells well...

The TOMS + Target collab seems to be selling well both online and in stores. At my local Target, the entire collection - men's, women's, kids, shoes and accessories - was grouped together in one section off of Womenswear, and on Sunday there was a full selection. By yesterday, all the shoes, hats and scarves were gone at my store, as were the throw blankets.

Target App Tells You If Items Are In-Store + Where To Find Them

Have you ever made a shopping list, driven to the store, then realized they were out of certain items? Well Target is solving that frustration in the form of an app that tells consumers what’s in stock and where to find those items inside the store.

Consumerist reports that Target’s new service - implemented by Washington-based tech company Point Inside - makes it possible to offer in-store functions for all U.S. locations for the first time. The company’s app allows a shopper to start their list using a type-ahead function that includes brand named items. Then the app will then notify the customer if the product is available at their chosen store location and what aisle they can find it in.

Once inside the store, the app uses the digitized model of the store to create a map showing the user the aisle location of each of the items on their shopping list. During Black Friday, the app reportedly will alert consumers to the location of doorbuster items.

One caveat: while the map can pinpoint the location of products, Target lacks the in-store beacons or similar communication capabilities that would enable Point Inside to provide shoppers with the exact route to those locations.

Deals on Target + Faribault...

Remember the Target + Faribault collab that launched earlier this month? This particular line is available only on Target.com, but here's a little tip: any customer store returns are automatically discounted to 30% off. So at my local store yesterday, I found this scarf (in Cannon Stripe) and a couple of others on clearance. In my store they were displayed front and center in the fashion accessory section (vs. on a clearance rack) with their clearance tags discretely tucked away. The quality and fabrication seemed excellent, but keep in mind these are made of woolen wool, so they are quite thick and not soft like merino wool.

The Look for Less: Merona vs. C Wonder

Novelty sweaters are popping up everywhere this season in a variety of motifs. Animals are an especially popular theme, as shown on these two cute doggie pullovers.The one on the left is the Dapper Dog Sweater from C Wonder, and will set you back $69.10 (on sale from $88). But you can get a similar look for much less with this Merona Printed Pullover at Target for only $19.99.

TOMS + Target debuts today; will you be buying?

As a reminder, the TOMS + Target line launches today, both in stores and online. While I love the intent behind the brand and this collab - giving away a portion of each purchase to those in need - this isn't a collection I'm particularly excited about. Most of the items look pretty ordinary, and there are no "must-haves" IMO. To that end, I won't be reviewing this collection, but for a full review check out this post by The Recessionista. I agree with her that the poncho (shown here) is attractive but not hugely functional. Despite that, though, this item is already sold out on Target.com in both colors.

What about you out there, readers? Is this a collab you've looked forward to, and if so, what will you be buying from it?

Target's Black Friday 2014 Ad

Target's Black Friday 2014 Ad has been posted on their website. From the looks of it, the doorbuster deals include the usual fare of flat-screen TVs, video games & movies, game consoles, toys, cameras, tablets and phones. They are also offering 40% off ALL regular-priced clothing for men, women & children, both in-store and online (with minor exclusions like the TOM's collab). And as you may have heard this week (as it was heavily reported in the news) Target is offering 10% off all Target gift cards... HOWEVER, please note that this offer is only good from 6am - noon on Black Friday, and the limit is $300 per household.

Target's 2014 Holiday Lookbook

A Bullseye View has posted Target's 2014 Holiday Lookbook, which includes featured items from Sonia Kashuk and Nate Berkus (as shown here) as well as an extensive look at their upcoming TOM'S collab (which debuts this weekend). You can click through the extensive Lookbook Slideshow here. I wish that Target still produced their holiday catalogs (which used to come in the mail) but alas, they got rid of those years ago.

The Look for Less: Merona vs. Kate Spade

Have you ever coveted one of Kate Spade's iconic bow bags but faced sticker shock at the price? The brand has used the "bow" motif repeatedly over the years, and the one on the far left is just one of the many styles they offer (retailing for hundreds of dollars). But you can get the same look for much less with the Merona offerings on the right. In particular, the Merona Bow Tote at Target comes in a purple color almost identical to the Kate Spade bag, only at a much more wallet-friendly price of $34.99.

New at Target: Chris March Christmas Costumes

Hot on the heels of Chris March's Big Fun Halloween Costume Collection, the former Project Runway designer now has a collection of Christmas hats, headbands and glasses available in Target stores as well as on Target.com. Everything is under $12, and you can look for the special endcaps in the greeting card/stationery section.

Now Available on Target.com: Target + Faribault

The Target + Faribault collab (announced back in September) debuted the other day on Target.com. As a reminder, this collection is just available online, and only for a limited time. It seems centered around blankets, shawls and scarves, with a smattering of tote bags, backpacks, tablet and smartphone sleeves thrown in. And since it's only sold online I'm wondering how well this collab will do - ?

New at Target: Method Holiday Scents in Orla Kiely Prints

Target and Method are again releasing special holiday scents of their Gel and Foaming Hand Wash products in Orla Kiely prints. So far, I've only seen the same two scents as last year: Vanilla Mint and Hollyberry. The prints are the same as last year, too, but I'll take what I can get as I love the Orla/Method collabs.

"Alex from Target" becomes overnight viral sensation...

ABC News reports that the Internet became a localized "Tiger Beat" teen magazine this past weekend when photos of this band-worthy young employee went viral.

It all started when a young Target employee's photo (shown here) hit it big with the hashtag #AlexFromTarget. The unsuspecting young man named "Alex" apparently has been amused with the attention, at least according to his Twitter account.

Target said in statement to ABC News the company is "proud to have a great team, including #AlexFromTarget," but declined to confirm any details about him.

UPDATE: It seems as if the whole #AlexFromTarget thing was a hoax. Or was it?? According to Gawker, a marketing company called Breakr claims it orchestrated the viral campaign around an "unknown good-looking Target employee from Texas," which purportedly started when teenage girls began retweeting a photo of him that had been posted on Twitter. However, "Alex from Target" himself has denied involvement, tweeting yesterday that the company is just jumping on to his viral fame.

Coming Soon to Target: Cheeky Tableware

Dovetailing nicely with their upcoming collab with TOMS, Target is launching a collection of paper and plastic tableware by Cheeky. For every Cheeky product you buy, they'll help donate a meal right here in the U.S. by teaming up with Feeding America to deliver meals to those who need them. By the end of 2015, they hope to provide 10 million meals.  The Cheeky for Target line debuts on Nov. 2, and you can check out the offerings here on Cheeky's site.

Clearance Alert: Wit & Delight

Wit & Delight - one of the Pinterest brands that Target is showcasing this year - is now on clearance in stores and online. On Target.com the line is only 20% off, but in stores I found it at 50% off and took the opportunity to stock up on some festive items. While this collection is geared to a beer-tasting fest, I'm going to use it for a wine-tasting party instead. I bought these cute cocktail napkins (shown) as well as the chalkboard labels to cover the wine bottles. I also bought a matching table runner in the same chalkboard material.

Coming Soon to Target: Halle Berry's Scandale Paris Lingerie

So apparently, Academy Award® winning actress Halle Berry is also co-owner and curator of the luxurious French lingerie brand Scandale Paris. Who knew? And Halle will be unveiling an exclusive line of Scandale Paris intimates at select Target stores and on Target.com on Oct. 27.

“I fell in love with Scandale while I was in Paris, because the brand reminded me of the city itself – beautiful and inspiring,” said Halle. “I am excited for the US debut to be at Target and to launch the brand globally in 2015. I look forward to giving more women the chance to enjoy what European women have come to love for more than eight decades.”

The Scandale Paris collection is a curated collection of flattering lace-accented bras and panties, with each piece clocking in at less than $20. For a sneak peek - plus Halle's comments on the upcoming collab - check out this short video on A Bullseye View.

New at Target: Dana Tanamachi Tech Accessories

Target is introducing a new collection of iPhone cases and laptop sleeves by graphic designer and letterer Dana Tanamachi. According to A Bullseye View, Tanamachi has worked for big names like Nike, TIME and O Magazine, and is a skilled and seasoned artist who tackled her exclusive line for Target with ease. 

Her Target collection includes iPhone 5/5s cases, available Oct. 19 for $24.99, iPhone 6 cases, available Nov. 9 for $24.99, and laptop sleeves and tablet folios available Jan. 2015. You can check out the iPhone 5/5s cases here on Target.com.

Walmart sued over Converse copycat...

CNN reports that Converse is suing 31 retailers and manufacturers - including Walmart - for selling copycat shoes. It wants them to pay compensation for trademark infringement and unfair competition.

Converse first began selling its shoes back in 1917 and has since sold over one billion pairs, marketing them to sports stars, rock stars and young people. And the brand has held onto its appeal with the cool kids. Converse sales have increased by 16% to nearly $1.7 billion in fiscal 2014.

Converse says retailers selling imitation shoes have caused it "substantial and irreparable injury" by eroding its famous brand name and confusing consumers. As shown here, Walmart's version are almost identical except for being marketed under their in-house "Faded Glory" brand. Walmart's version are also only $12, whereas "real" Converse sneakers go for around $50. 

Target, on the other hand, has had a licensing agreement with Converse for years with the "Converse One Star" brand in stores and online. Target's version of the popular kicks retail for a bit less than Converse All Stars, at $30-40 a pair.

New at Target: Joules Wellies

While perusing Target.com today, I came across a new offering by the Bullseye: "wellies" (or rain boots) by the British brand Joules. They are dubbed "Britain's finest rain boots", and come in the the fun prints shown here as well as Army Green, Bright Pink, Navy and basic Black. Retailing for $69.99, these are the same styles (at the same price) offered by Joules directly, and Target is only selling them via their web site (and not in stores).

Target BOGO: Buy one sweater, get one 50% off

This week Target is having a BOGO event on all men's and women's sweaters: buy one, get one half off. Here in California - where temps are still quite summery - the thought of buying sweaters seems ridiculous. But I suppose I should take advantage of the sale prices now before all the cute styles (like the Gray Leopard Print Pullover shown in the upper left) are sold out.

Speaking of which: quantities are limited, and no rain checks. BOGO offer excludes clearance sweaters. Items may be combined across Women’s and Men’s Departments, and colors and styles vary by store.

Target announces new collab with Orla Kiely

Attention Orla Kiely fans! Target has announced a new collab with the beloved designer. This time around, Orla and Target are teaming up on yoga and gym accessories. The capsule collection includes mats, yoga blocks, water towels and headbands prices from $12.99 - $39.99.

Inspired by her own exercise routine, the designer’s first foray into fitness embraces a palette of red, pea green and charcoal. “I love color and their tonalities anchored by a strong neutral,” said Orla. “To me, the shots of red and green convey power and my signature four-petal flower print is perfect for yoga and the renewing effect it has on the mind and spirit.”

This latest collection will also include a small array of luggage and travel accessories, perfect for those traveling this holiday season or for stocking stuffers. The  Orla Kiely for Target  collection debuts in stores and online on October 19th.

Clearance Alert: Sonia Kashuk's 15th Anniversary Collection

Sonia Kashuk's limited-edition 15th anniversary collection (marking the number of years she's collaborated with Target) is now on clearance in stores at 30% off. I was able to get the Powerful Pout Lip Palette (shown here) for just $13.98, as well as the Painting the Town 15-piece mini nail-color set (a gift for my nail-obsessed teenage niece) for the same price.

Altuzarra for Target already on clearance in stores...

Today I noticed that one of my local Target stores has already put what's left of the Altuzarra for Target collection on clearance at 30% off. It looked like there were a lot of dresses and blouses (in a variety of sizes), multiple pairs of tuxedo jackets and pants (both in the black matte and red velvet fabric) as well as 4 shelves of shoes. The selection online at Target.com is still at full price, but the inventory is spotty, so check stores if there's something you've been coveting.

UPDATE: another Target store I visited today had the collection marked down to 50% off, so they certainly seem to want to move this stuff out to make room for newer merchandise.

Target Introduces "AndrewAndrew" Eyewear

Racked.com reports that the artsy NYC DJ duo AndrewAndrew are the first designers to collaborate with Target Optical on an exclusive eyewear collection. The frames are done up in AndrewAndrew's "exaggerated preppy" style and retail for $129, which includes frames and lenses. The styles debuted last week on Target Optical's site and at Target Optical locations.

If you're wondering who AndrewAndrew is, you're not alone. The Andrews are curious about how they landed a Target deal, too. "I don't know what possessed Target to think we're a good fit, but we're thrilled," one of them told the New York Observer. "They totally drank the AndrewAndrew Kool-Aid, hook, line and sinker. I don't even think they know our last names."

The AndrewAndrew Target Optical collection includes five unisex frames with 14 variations of shape, style and color. And Target Optical has an in-home try-on program, so customers can get four frames delivered and then buy the ones they want online.

"As Seen On Shark Tank" Products coming to Target Stores

Those of you who watched the season premier of ABC's "Shark Tank" last Friday already know about the new deal they've inked with Target.  On the show, Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran revealed they've sealed a deal to sell six of their Shark Tank products in a special display at 1,000 Target stores nationwide.

In one of the "Update Segments" on the show - in which they catch up with past contestants - the entrepreneurs from Lollaland, Kisstixx, Monkey Mat, Kazam, U-lace, and Ry’s Ruffery were thrilled to see their products on Target's shelves for the first time. Before their deals on “Shark Tank,” the combined value of the entrepreneurs’ products equaled $1.3 million dollars in sales. Today, that value has increased to $7.7 million dollars, a 500% increase.

I watch the show fairly religiously, but from the list above, I honestly only remember "Ry's Ruffery" (formerly known as "Ryan's Barkery" and re-named per advice by Barbara Corcoran). Given the booming pet supply market, I'm sure this line of healthy dog treats will do well at The Bullseye. 

Target Announces Collab with Faribult Textiles

Target has announced an exclusive collab with Faribault to bring you a classic-meets modern collection of American-made accessories and gifts starring the heritage mill’s signature 100-percent wool textiles. According to A Bullseye View, "the assortment of limited-edition bags, throws, scarves for men and women and tech accessories will be available on Target.com starting Nov. 2 and come in an array of exclusive stripes and plaids." That is their exact wording, so I'm wondering if this collab will only be available online and not in stores - ?

Founded in 1865, Faribault is known for its durable, comfortable wool blankets. The family-owned company is located on the banks of the Cannon River, near Target’s headquarters in Minneapolis. “We couldn’t be more proud of the final product,” said Stacia Andersen, senior vice president of apparel and accessories at Target told the Star Tribune. “The quality is remarkable and the fact that it’s the result of two Minnesota companies coming together, we feel, is very special.”

New at Target: Pre-cut Fabric

One of my local Target stores is now carrying pre-cut fabric (display shown here) in the sewing machine/mending supply aisle. What caught my eye were all the fun prints and patterns. The pre-cut fabric comes in 3 finishes - cotton, burlap and canvas - and there are "kits" you can buy to make things like a tote bag, pillow, or fabric wreath.

The odd thing is that just one of my local stores seems to be carrying this line. I wonder if this is an "experiment" for Target to see if it sells, and if so, they might expand it to additional stores - ?

Target's Fashion BOGO Event

Target is having quite the sale on women's Fall fashions this week. Starting today, they have a buy one/get one 50% off deal on all Merona apparel and women's shoes, jewelry and accessories (all brands). Shown here is just a sampling. The best part of this sale is that it extends to both stores and Target.com. Offer good through Sept. 27th, 2014.

Altuzarra for Target: what did you buy?

Hello readers! Did you shop the Altuzarra for Target collection today? And if so, did you shop from the comfort of your own home (purchasing online) or brave the lines (if there were any at your particular store)?

My cats work me up at 5:30 this morning (insert frowny-face here) so I decided to fire up my iPad and take a look at Target.com, and I ended up taking a chance on the sweater and the ruby peasant dress. I know, I know... I said I was going to pass on this collab, but I caved ;-) Then I went back to bed for a couple of hours, and later on that morning (around 10am) ventured to my local store. There I was pleasantly surprised by this tuxedo jacket (shown) with the cute peplum detail. I had to size up, but this will be a piece I'll wear again and again. I was in a hurry and I also grabbed the tuxedo pants (without trying them on first) but unfortunately they run small so I'll have to hope that I can find them in store (as they already seem sold out online).

As for the aforementioned items I bought online: I was not as impressed with them in person. But once I have them in hand I will take The Recessionista's advice and try them on, as she notes that "some of the things we thought we would love were not the most stunning on when we actually tried everything on." Like her, I found the satin jersey items to be cheap-looking, and therefore did not bother to try them on.

I didn't bother with the shoes or the boots, as the heels were way too high for my fussy feet. And all the belts were sold out at my store (as they were online). When I arrived at mid-morning, the Altuzarra section seemed oddly quiet and the racks seemed filled with a range of sizes. However, in the 15 or so minutes I took pouring over the goods, at least 3 women flitted in and out picking up a ton of stuff to try on. The salespeople seemed well prepared to answer questions (two women asked whether there were more belts in the back inventory, and the answer was "no") and they were also doing a great job getting the merchandise back on the floor after it was tried on in the dressing room.

To note: this designer collab has a 14-day return window, which is probably to deter the eBay vultures from making a profit. Target kindly notes this on your receipt, with a note next to each Altuzarra item of the return deadline.

Also to note: Target's site has been p a i n f u l l y   s l o w today, so I would have LOVED to provide links to the items I bought but it wasn't possible as I couldn't access the pages.

New eBay scam: pre-orders for Target designer collabs

Just out of curiosity, I decided to check eBay this evening to see how many Altuzarra for Target items were already for sale. Keep in mind that the Alturzarra press event happened last week which means some PR folks may already be hawking the samples they scored. But this caught my eye on eBay: a listing only lasting until mid-day tomorrow hawking the coveted pencil skirt in ALL SIZES for a BIN price of $250. Clearly this eBay vulture is taking "pre-orders" and then will show up in line at their local store (which I presume to be Rhode Island, as that's where their eBay account is based) to buy whatever sizes have been ordered. Oh, and don't forget the $12.95 shipping charge this scalper is charging for standard shipping. Buyer beware: don't fall for these inflated prices.

Altuzarra for Target debuts tomorrow; do you care?

Good evening, readers! Just a friendly reminder that the Altuzarra for Target collab debuts tomorrow in stores, and at some point tonight it'll hit Target.com (probably right after midnight). While some of the looks are interesting, I think I'll pass on this one. The styles seem geared to someone younger, thinner, and taller than me. And in fact, some of the "office looks" are giving me a "Devil Wears Prada" vibe. I adore that move, and can't you just picture Andrea wearing the outfit shown here?

What about you? Will you be loving this designer collab, or skipping it?

Chris March's Halloween Wigs for Target

For the second year in a row, Chris March is teaming up with Target on a fun collection of Halloween wigs. Remember his collection last year? This year's line again concentrates on big foam wigs, but adds in some accessories to the mix. The
former Project Runway star has designed six styles for Halloween 2014, including a beachy surfer girl, a rockin’ red lobster, a hook-handed pirate, a curler-casual character (shown here) and more. The limited-time only collection debuts Sept. 14 in stores and on Target.com, and each item is $20 or less.

Target teams with TOMS

Target is teaming up with TOMS - the beloved shoe company - on a limited edition holiday collection. Following the TOMS model of 'one-for-one' (meaning each time you buy a pair of shoes one pair is donated to charity) this Target collab will similarly provide donations with every purchase from the collection. The collab debuts in stores and online on Nov. 16th, and includes than 50 items under $50, from home goods and apparel and accessories for women, men and kids. A sampling is shown here, but check out the Target + TOMS Brand Shop for the entire line (including a version of TOMS iconic slip-on shoes). This line seems very similar in look/feel/intent as last year's Target + FEED USA line, and I'm happy to see The Bullseye offer another designer collection in time for the holidays in addition to the upcoming Altuzarra collab (which seems more high-fashion and not as accessible to the masses).

Blogger's break...

Hey everyone! Just a heads up that I'm going to be taking the month of August off from blogging. After being out of work for almost a year, I start a new job next Monday. And I want to give my new gig 110%, so I've decided to put the blog on hold for awhile. I hope to be back after Labor Day with new posts. Until then, have a great summer!

Double-Take: Zinc Door vs. Safavieh at Target

It's time for another double-take, where we take one item from Tar-shay and match it up against a lookalike - yet pricier - designer piece. Today we have two gold-framed, marble-topped end tables... which like my last double-take, look virtually identical. The difference is that one of them is by Ray (at Zinc Door) and will set you back $581, while the other one is by Safavieh (on Target.com) and cost only $369 (on sale). Which one is which? The answer appears in the comments section below.

Target names new CEO

USA Today reports that Target has tapped PepsiCo executive Brian Cornell as the retailer's new CEO. This comes nearly three months after former CEO Gregg Steinhafel stepped down as the brand dealt with the aftermath of a reputation-threatening holiday data breach and difficulties with its Canada stores.

Cornell, 55, replaces interim CEO John Mulligan, who stepped in when Steinhafel resigned in May. He will leave his post as CEO of PepsiCo Americas Foods, where he oversaw the brand's snack business including Frito-Lay North America and Quaker Foods. He will assume his role as Target CEO Aug. 12th. 

For more on Cornell in his own words, check out this interview with him on A Bullseye View.

Target takes extra security measures...

As I reported a few months ago, Target will be transitioning to the more secure microchip-enabled credit cards in early 2015. In the meantime, Target stores are taking the additional security measure of asking you for the last 4 digits of your credit card upon checkout. This means that after they've already swiped your card - but before they hand you your merchandise - they will ask you for the last 4 digits on your card. To that end, it'd be best to either memorize those numbers or keep your card out until you actually have your goods in hand. One Target clerk told me this is becoming commonplace at other retailers (not just Target) but so far Tar-shay is the only store I've experienced this at.