torontolife.com » Good Stuff Cheap

Line Knitwear launches diffusion label John and Jenn for, we assume, children

Lia Parsley — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:06:44 +0000

John and Jenn spring/summer 2012 (Image: Supplied)

Line, one of Canada’s favourite knitwear design houses (headed by John Muscat and Jennifer Wells), presented their diffusion collection John and Jenn last week and, for the most part, the collection seemed a little junior compared to the elegant-yet-cozy offerings we’ve seen from Line in the past. John and Jenn is decidedly youthful with its array of colour-blocked brights, stripes, polka dots, tie-dye, seahorse-embellished tanks and hoodies. Even the models were styled younger than their at-least 17-year-old-selves, with high ponytails, visible makeup and slumber party dance moves (they also sucked on lollipops, but it wasn’t a nod to Lolita, we assure you). That said, we still saw some value in this relatively inexpensive collection. Check out what we saw of the spring/summer 2012 collection after the jump.

With a price point of $125 and under, we can see John and Jenn selling to uptown moms looking to buy fun, casual, somewhat beach-inspired streetwear for their normally kilted and knee-socked daughters. Some moms might even try out Line’s new collection for themselves as weekend wear, come warmer temperatures. After all, layering long tanks under hooded sweatshirts and cardigans never gets old when you’re on cottage time. Come spring/summer 2012, John and Jenn will be available at TNT, Holt Renfrew, Mendocino, Anthropologie and more. If you’re looking for punchy basics and a smattering of sequins to pepper into an otherwise monochromatic wardrobe, this—version of—Line is for you. We were just expecting cheaper Fair Isle sweaters and chunky cardigans, but we were mistaken.

Parkdale Vendors Market brings good stuff cheap—including, yes, grilled cheese—to the street

Paul Aguirre-Livingston — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:30:11 +0000

Sarah Hamel’s Parkdale parade (Image: supplied)

With the exception of St. Lawrence Market and the here-today-gone-tomorrow craft fairs that fill up old churches, it seems there aren’t a lot of—at least, not a lot of good—community vendor markets, also known by their generic name: places to get random stuff from people cheaply. Most people are keen to stumble upon a great yard or estate sale, but the ones with the best cheap antiques are tricky to get to when they’re on a Sunday and two hours from home—so when we heard about Parkdale’s outdoor flea market, we were curious, if not a bit skeptical.

Sarah Hamel, a champion of independent jewellery designers at her boutique Made You Look, saw a void and started the Parkdale Vendors Market to showcase the strip’s local businesses and at-home crafters. Aside from the yearly street fair Cowan Nation, Parkdale doesn’t really have much to make it a weekend destination for anything other than sometimes-good vintage shops or food at Parts and Labour. When it started on June 4, we weren’t sure if this market had any traction. But with each passing weekend, it’s proven even more buzz-worthy, gaining a steady following.

What we found: ShopGirls Gallery Boutique exclusively stocking Canadian designers; The Well of Alternative Medicine offering up $1-per-minute massages (beat that, Chinatown); homemade jams from The Rustic Cosmo; grilled cheese and treat heaven Mangez; and tons of vintage clothing and random kitschy knick-knacks direct from Parkdale storage closets. There’s definitely more treasure than trash, but we still encountered our share of screaming man A and semi-nude woman B along the way.

Parkdale Vendors Market, 1273 Queen St. W., every Saturday until September, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rent a dress, send it back: how to be frugal without having to keep the tags on

Briony Smith — Wed, 25 May 2011 20:08:14 +0000

These women used to eat peanut butter sandwiches for dinner. (Image: Rent Frock Repeat)

Dropping a couple of mortgage payments on a dress that may be worn only once was not always such a gauche sign of indulgence (insert buzz word: recession). Now, like a DVD at a failing Blockbuster Video, we can rent a dress for a fraction of the price at the newly launched online dress-rental service Rent Frock Repeat, and then, well, send it back when we’re bored of it .

The premise: Penny-pinching shoppers browse online to take their pick of in-season pieces by Doo.Ri, Milly, Jay Godfrey, Preen, Robert Rodriguez, Badgley Mischka, Catherine Malandrino, Pink Tartan, Shoshanna and Christian Siriano (best remembered as the loud, pint-sized pixie with catchphrases from Project Runway), among others. Vanity sizers, yo-yo dieters and women who are between sizes can benefit from having two sizes delivered to ensure the perfect fit (they also have a stylist to gently suggest—via e-mail, phone or chat—that the pashmina we might be after is so five years ago).

The cost: The rental is around 15 to 20 per cent of the retail price (post-party dry-cleaning is included), and every dress can be kept for four or eight days. An emerald-green silk sack dress from Ports 1961, for example, usually retailing for $895, can be rented for $150, while $60 gets us a sleeveless red David Dixon shift dress (which usually retails for $350).

The sales pitch: “Renting a dress gives you the freedom to wear something a bit bolder or brighter than maybe something you would invest in—there is a feeling of freedom that comes along with having our virtual closet at your disposal, and none of the buyer’s remorse,” says co-owner Kristy Wieber. The freedom to wear bold colours and the option to never leave the couch? Welcome to the rebirth of Peggy Bundy.

Once again, Vaughan Mills Centre provides free transit to and from shopping trips

Mishki Vaccaro — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:32:31 +0000

It seems no one wants to be at the Vaughan Mills Centre at night (above), but by day it is a tourist hotbed (Image: Vaughan Mills)

For those who live in downtown Toronto, the Vaughan Mills Centre may seem like a world away (it’s near Highway 400 and Rutherford Road, which isn’t exactly BIXI-accessible), but from May 1 through Sept. 30, the shopping mall will be shipping tourists and car-less Torontonians to Vaughan Mills via a relaunched gratis shuttle service from Union Station.

Bracelets for the service can be obtained on a first-come, first-served basis at the City Tours and Attractions desk inside Union Station. The shuttle departs at 10 a.m. and returns at 3 p.m. or departs at 1 p.m. and returns at 6 p.m. (we’ve done the math and that’s four hours of shopping, which is pretty much hitting the limit). We suggest checking out Holt Renfrew Last Call and the newly opened Betsey Johnson, or waiting for the standalone Joe Fresh location scheduled to open in mid- to late May.

Sales and events roundup: Canadian Spa Week deals, 60 per cent off Fred Perry, Mykita trunk show

Kevin Naulls — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 18:17:32 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

GOTSTYLE
Save $50–$100 on a modern suit after trading in one of your never-worn boxy numbers. Proceeds from sales will go to dressyourbest.ca. March 15–April 10. 62 Bathurst St., 416-260-9696.

GOTSTYLE
Gotstyle has listed all of their straggling pieces at 70 per cent off their original price for their end-of-season sale, but quantities are limited. March 15–27. 62 Bathurst St., 416-260-9696.

JESSICA JENSEN
Handbags are always an expense, but Jessica Jensen’s upcoming sample sale lists up to 80 per cent off on all items (final sale). March 24–26, Thurs 12–8 p.m., Fri and Sat 12–6 p.m.. 639 Queen St W, Suite 404.

JOSEPHSON OPTICIANS
Mykita founders Philipp Haffmans and Moritz Krueger will be making a special in-store appearance, offering custom fittings on new styles to be showcased at this month’s Canadian trunk show. March 22 and March 24, 3 p.m. 60 Bloor St. W. (at Bay St.), 416-964-7070.

PURE + SIMPLE SPA
Canadian Spa Week is upon us, and Pure + Simple locations are offering 50 per cent off or a flat rate of $50 for various spa packages. See Spafinder for rates and services. March 21–27.

STANDARD APPAREL
Standard Apparel distributes big brands like Fred Perry, Fjällräven, Dunderdon and Oliver Spencer, and this month’s sample sale lists all men’s, women’s and children’s apparel at a minimum of 60 per cent off. March 22–24, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. By appointment only: Jeremy: jniokastritis@standardapparel.ca. 360 Dufferin St., #106.

TORONTO SAMPLE SALES
Get spring designer denim from William Rast, J Lindeberg, Nudie and Paige Denim (among many others) at 40–80 per cent off. March 24–27, Thurs and Fri 11 a.m.–midnight, Sat and Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

EVENTS

ONE OF A KIND SHOW AND SALE
Canadian artisans offer their wares at this crafty bazaar, from stand-alone artifacts to handcrafted furniture. March 30–April 3. Ticketing information available on-line. www.oneofakindshow.com.

LG FASHION WEEK
Joe Fresh, Holt Renfrew and a variety of new faces showcase their offerings to consumers and hot-shot editors during Toronto’s response to New York Fashion Week. March 28–April 1. Consumer passes available at lgfashionweek.ca.

Luxury supersaver Web shopping trend finally comes to Canada

Mishki Vaccaro — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 21:19:55 +0000

Canadians who drool over foreign sample sale sites like Gilt Groupe, Rue La La and Vente-Privee should be happy to hear that Stylehopper—a Canadian version of the concept that launched at the end of last year—is growing in popularity. Much like real life sample sales, Stylehopper offers discounted designer bonanzas that attract crowds of ruthless, trend-conscious bargain hunters. The bonus here is that shoppers don’t need to wait in line with said bargain hunters to get to the racks or to the cashiers.

As far as Canadian shoppers are concerned, Stylehopper has a leg up on its U.S. and European counterparts because the site is based in Toronto and avoids international shipping and duty costs. Stylehopper ships for free across Canada on any purchase over $150.

“A lot of luxury brands were stuck with inventory that they couldn’t really sell because of the recession and economy,” CEO Bart Lipski told us, noting that he works with both Canadian and international brands. Stylehopper “works discretely through flash sales…to help luxury brands offload that inventory.” A short list of designers that have already worked with the site includes Ted Baker London, Arnold Zimberg, Romeo & Juliet Couture, and Bloch Shoes. Partnerships with Earnest Sewn, Miss Sixty and Deux Lux are also in the offing.

Sales roundup: Greta Constantine sample sale, Lela Rose trunk show, 25 per cent off at Robber

Carley Fortune — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:59:22 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

BEAN SPROUT
All winter clothing and outerwear is 30 per cent off at this kids’ clothing shop. 565 Mount Pleasant Rd., 416-932-3727, beansprout.ca.

CABARET
The vintage shop is offering 50 per cent off dresses, men’s suits and jewellery. 672 Queen St. W., 416-504-7126.

DANDI MAESTRE
Accessory designer Dandi Maestre has a knack for bold, statement-making jewellery (antler necklace, anyone?). While she sells on-line, we’re heading to this pre-holiday pop-up shop to ogle the goods in person. From $40. Until Dec. 22. 386 Huron St., dandimaestre.com.

GEORGE C.
Men’s and women’s clothing and footwear (it’s all designer here) is between 20 and 50 per cent off. 21 Hazelton Ave., 416-962-1991, georgec.ca.

GRETA AND EZRA CONSTANTINE
Greta and Ezra fans must make an appointment to check out the goods at this sample sale. Cash only. Until Dec. 23. Three appointments available daily (11:30, 2:30 and 4) Monday to Friday. Contact info@gretaconstantine.com.

HOLT RENFREW
Woot! It’s the designer sale, with up to 60 per cent off clothing and accessories. 50 Bloor St. W., 416-922-2333.

JONATHAN AND OLIVIA
Get up to 50 per cent off winter clothing for men and women, including the store’s Topshop offerings. This jersey cocktail dress, for example, is $189 (from $315). 49 Ossington Ave., 416-849-5956, jonathanandolivia.com.

KORRY’S
This men’s shop is offering up to 40 per cent off suits, outerwear and pants from Hugo Boss, Zegna, Versace and more. 569 Danforth Ave., 416-436-1115.

LEIGH AND HARLOW
Denim from Paige, J Brand and Hudson—in addition to clothes from such brands as Alternative Apparel and Scotch and Soda—is 20 to 50 per cent off. 634 Queen St. W., 647-430-7774; Shops at Don Mills, 647-341-6091, leighandharlow.com.

OVER THE RAINBOW
Print out this coupon and get $35 off your purchase of $100 or more at the famed Yorkville denim shop. Dec. 17 and 18. 10–6. 101 Yorkville Ave., 416-967-7448.

RITA LIEFHEBBER
Pre-order clothing from the spring 2011 collection and score deals on sample pieces. Cash only. Dec. 15. Hoof Café, 923 Dundas St. W.

ROBBER
A good selection of fall and winter clothing (for men and women) is now 25 per cent off. 863 Queen St. W., 647-351-0724, robberstore.wordpress.com.

WHITE
Lela Rose—maker of flirty bridal frocks—is having a trunk show. Appointment required. Dec. 10 and 11. 19 Hazelton Ave., 416-849-9196, whitetoronto.com.

HOME

CLASSIC COOL DÉCOR
This annual sale means 20 to 50 per cent off all furniture, lighting, drapery and mirrors. Begins Jan. 15. 2314 Bloor St. W., 416-763-4999.

ELTE
During this store-wide sale, everything from sofas to dining room tables, from linens to lighting, is between 30 and 40 per cent off. 80 Ronald Ave., 416-785-7885, elte.com.

ONE TWENTY MODERN
Modular stacking drawer systems from Brix are 20 per cent off. Until Dec. 23. 120 Ossington Ave., 416-537-4400, onetwentymodern.com.

TEXTILE MUSEUM
Members of the textile museum (memberships cost $65) can save 20 per cent on all items in the gift shop. Until Dec. 24. 55 Centre Ave., 416-599-5321, textilemuseum.ca.

Sales roundup: $35 off at Over the Rainbow, 50 per cent off Ray Bans, Beckerman sample sale

Carley Fortune — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:51:34 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

BECKERMAN AND ANDREA BRUECKNER SAMPLE SALE
We hear the Beckerman clothing at this sample will be going for less than wholesale prices. Also on offer are handbags from Andrea Brueckner. A kick-off party on December 3 is open to all. Dec. 3 4:30–10:30, Dec 4 12–6. 174 Spadina Ave., Unit 103, beckermans.com.

JESSICA JENSEN
The handbag and leather goods designer is opening a temporary shop for the holiday season with up to 70 per cent off her accessories. Until Dec. 12. 972 Queen St. W., shopjessicajensen.com.

OVER THE RAINBOW
Print out this coupon and get $35 off your purchase of $100 or more at the famed Yorkville denim shop. Until Dec. 24. 101 Yorkville Ave., 416-967-7448.

LIV BY AU LIT
Sure, this weekend-long event is luring us in with hot chocolate and treats (as well as a chance to win a $500 shopping spree), but we’re really going for the sale: 25 per cent off all clothing, furniture and linens. Dec. 4 and 5. 418 Eglinton Ave. W., 416-481-2300, livbyaulit.com.

PHILIP SPARKS HOLIDAY SHOP
For one day, shoppers get 25 per cent off limited-edition menswear and accessories. Bonus: there will be snacks. Dec. 4., noon–6, The Burroughes Building, 639 Queen St. W., Ste. 5005,

SUNGLASS SAFARI
Designer sunglasses are the main draw here. Versaces are 25 per cent off and Ray Bans are up to 50 per cent off, but there are also deals to be had on ski goggles. Dec. 2–24. 2601 Matheson Blvd. E., Unit 3, 905-629-8333, sunglasssafari.com.

HOME

DESIGN WITHIN REACH
Herman Miller furniture—this includes pieces by Eames, Nelson and Noguchi—are 15 per cent off. Until Dec. 13. 435 King St. W., 416-977-4003, dwr.com.

ELTE
Save 20 per cent on all dining room furniture, including tables, chairs, buffets, bar carts, china cabinets, sideboards and hutches. Until Dec. 5. 80 Ronald Ave., 416-785-7885, elte.com.

QUASI MODO MODERN
Not to be outdone by Design Within Reach, this Queen Street home decor store is giving 30 per cent off its Herman Miller furniture. Until Dec. 13. 789 Queen St. W., 416-703-8300, quasimodomodern.com.

STUDIO B
At this sale, floor models are between 20 and 50 per cent off. The grand Reina upholstered bed is now $5,300 (regularly $10,605). 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

TEXTILE MUSEUM
Members of the textile museum (memberships cost $65) can save 20 per cent on all items in the gift shop. Dec. 2–24. 55 Centre Ave., 416-599-5321, textilemuseum.ca.

EVENTS

PHOTORAMA
This photography sale has deals on works by big names like Ed Burtynsky and up-and-comers. Most pieces are between $200 and $600. Nov. 26 and 27 and Nov. 30 to Dec. 4. Noon–7. Gallery TPW, 56 Ossington Ave., gallerytpw.ca.

Black Friday madness: not just for Yanks anymore

John Michael McGrath — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 19:51:32 +0000

With Black Friday here, American retailers are reinforcing their doors and trying to keep fatalities to a minimum. And because it looks like so much fun to run through a store like it’s a refugee camp in 28 Days Later, Canadian shoppers are apparently getting in on the action. Yankee shops near the border have been playing their Black Friday siren songs to Canadians for weeks, while some local retailers are offering discounts designed to keep consumers hereabouts.

According to the Toronto Star:

Wal-Mart electronics deals went on sale at 5 a.m. but shoppers had to get tickets the night before. By midnight, the tickets for the 32-inch Emerson televisions were gone.

Barrera Arturo and Arlenne Del Rincon, of Oakville, spent the night in the baby section of Wal-Mart [in Buffalo], clutching two tickets for the $198 televisions that normally retail for $328.

“It’s my first time sleeping at Wal-Mart,” Del Rincon said.

The Oakville couple spent an uncomfortable night using towels and houseware items for pillows and admitted they were “lost in time,” thinking it was still Thursday.

The Globe and Mail adds that in some parts of Canada, retailers are trying to keep shoppers home, but that probably only works in places that are more than an hour away from Buffalo. The only real way to compete, we’d wager, is to convert entirely and move Boxing Day to Black Friday. Just keep it Canadian, please: polite, with a minimum of trampling.

• Black Friday: ‘I’m on my way, there’s a brawl in jewellery’ [Toronto Star]
• Will Black Friday become a Canadian tradition? [Globe and Mail]

Sales roundup: Canadian designer sample sale, Photorama, Aquilano.Rimondi trunk show

Carley Fortune — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:56:08 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

ASHLEY ROWE
The young Toronto designer is holding a trunk show this Saturday with pieces from her fall collection. Shoppers will get a free splatter-painted tee with their purchase. Nov. 27. 12–2. RAC Boutique, 124 Cumberland St., ashleyrowe.com.

BEAN SPROUT
Parents can stock up on winter boots, snowsuits and coats for the kids from such brands as Geox, Rip Zone and Kenneth Cole; everything is at least 20 per cent off. 565 Mount Pleasant Rd., 416-932-3727, beansprout.ca.

CANOPY BLUE
For one night, all merchandise in the womenswear boutique is 25 per cent off. Ten dollars from every purchase will go to Blessing in a Backpack, a local charity that provides in-school meals for children. Champagne and nibbles sweeten the deal. RSVP to 416-483-2583. Nov. 26. 2582 Yonge St.

ESPRIT
At this warehouse sale, clothing and accessories for men and women are up to 80 per cent off regular price. View the sales flyer here. Nov. 24, 6–9 p.m.; Nov. 25 and 26, 9–9; Nov. 27 and 28, 9–6. Queen Elizabeth Building, 190 Princes Blvd.

FGI SAMPLE SALE
The Fashion Group International of Toronto is holding a sale with some of Toronto’s most well-known designers: David Dixon, Philip Sparks, Nada and more. Nov. 25 and 26. 10–7. 579 Richmond St. W., Ste. 200.

HOLIDAY POP-UP CLOSET
Winter clothing and holiday gifts (all either limited edition or event exclusives) are on offer at this pop-up shop inside our favourite west-end shoe boutique. Look for pieces from Assembly New York, Pendleton, Duy and more. Plus, the proceeds go to the Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Nov. 26 to 28. Chasse Gardée, 1084 Queen St. W., 416-901-9613.

HOLT RENFREW
Italian fashion masters Tommaso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi of Aquilano.Rimondi are at Holts for a trunk show of their colourful 1970s-inflected spring collection. Nov. 25. 10–4, personal appearance 1–3. 50 Bloor St. W., 416-922-2333, holtrenfrew.com.

JESSICA JENSEN
The handbag and leather goods designer is opening a temporary shop for the holiday season with up to 70 per cent off her accessories. Nov. 25 to Dec. 12. 972 Queen St. W., shopjessicajensen.com.

JOSEPHSON OPTICIANS
The venerable Toronto eyewear chain is holding its annual sale, with up to 70 per cent off frames. Until Nov. 30. 60 Bloor St. W., 416-964-7070, plus five other GTA locations.

LINEA INTIMA
Print out this coupon and receive a bra fitting, as well as $25 off the purchase of a bra. Until Nov. 30. 1925 Avenue Rd., 416-780-1726, plus four other GTA locations, lineaintima.com.

PEACH BERSERK
Just before holiday parties begin, Peach Berserk is offering 25 per cent off all its hand-printed silk dresses, including custom-ordered numbers. Also 25 per cent off are gift certificates for the store’s silkscreen workshops (included with the purchase is a Peach Berserk silkscreening how-to book and a bag—silkscreened, naturally). Until Nov. 30. 507 Queen St. W., 416-504-1711, peachberserk.com.

RITA TESOLIN
The Toronto jewellery designer’s beautiful baubles are up to 90 per cent off at this sample sale. Nov. 27 and 28, 10–6. 63 Wingold Ave., Ste. 110.

TYKE THREADS
The on-line boys’ clothing store is opening a pop-up shop for the holiday shopping season with deals on such brands as Ben Sherman, House of Mongrel, Appaman and Wonderboy. Nov. 27 to 29, 10–7. Cool East Market, 1390 Danforth Ave., tykethreads.com.

UKAMAKU CHRISTMAS POP-UP SHOP
The on-line retailer is opening a holiday store for two days at the Hazelton Hotel with women’s clothing and accessories from Carrie Hayes, Jessica Jensen, Véronique Miljkovitch, Zoran Dobric and Darlene Martin. Nov. 26 and 27. 11–6:30. Hazelton Hotel, Yorkville Room, 118 Yorkville Ave., ukamaku.com.

VIRGINIA JOHNSON
Toronto’s master of prints is holding a three-day sample sale a few doors north of her Ossington boutique. Go early. Nov. 25 and 26, 11–7; Nov. 27, 11–6. 138 Ossington Ave., virginiajohnson.com.

VOCADO
At the Liberty Village shop’s annual holiday party, shoppers get 15 per cent off regular-price clothing and accessories, as well as a $50 gift card with purchases over $100. RSVP to laura.harkness@vocado.ca. Nov. 25, 5–8. 171 East Liberty St., Unit 121, 647-347-7153, vocado.ca.

WHITE
Canadian designer Rita Vinieris, the brains behind Rivini’s bridal creations, will be in the boutique to help outfit brides in the perfect gown. By appointment only. Nov. 26 and 27, 10–6. 19 Hazelton Ave., 416-849-9196, whitetoronto.com.

HOME

AU LIT FINE LINENS
Pillows and duvets from the Au Lit Essentials collection are 25 per cent off the regular price. Until Nov. 30. 2049 Yonge St., 416-489-7010, aulitfinelinens.com.

ELTE
All Karastan carpets and broadloom are 20 per cent off this month. Until Nov. 30. 80 Ronald Ave., 416-785-7885, elte.com.

CRATE AND BARREL
All glassware, dinnerware and barware is up to 25 per cent off. Until Nov. 29. Yorkdale Shopping Centre, 2401 Dufferin St., 416-657-4100.

GINGER’S
Bathroom renovators, take note. This month, all Waterworks bathtubs are 20 per cent off. Until Nov. 30. 95 Ronald Ave., 416-787-1787, gingers.com.

STUDIO B
At this sale, floor models are between 20 and 50 per cent off. The grand Reina upholstered bed is now $5,300 (regularly $10,605). 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

STYLE GARAGE
Has it been 10 years already? The Toronto furniture store celebrates its first decade by offering 10 per cent off all made-to-order sofas, lounge chairs and sectionals. Until Nov. 30. 938 Queen St. W., 416-534-4343, stylegarage.com.

EVENTS

PHOTORAMA
This photography sale has deals on works by big names like Ed Burtynsky and up-and-comers. Most pieces are between $200 and $600. Nov. 26 and 27 and Nov. 30 to Dec. 4. Noon–7. Gallery TPW, 56 Ossington Ave., gallerytpw.ca.

Sales roundup: Marchesa trunk show, Virginia Johnson sample sale, Mark Lash holiday sale

Carley Fortune — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:15:55 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

HOLT RENFREW
Take a look at the Academy Awards best dressed lists and you’ll find celebs wearing Marchesa gowns. Toronto ladies can preview and order from the spring 2011 collection. We suggest brides-to-be pop in during this trunk show; many of the dresses would look stunning on the big day. Nov. 16 and 17, noon–5. 50 Bloor St. W., 416-922-2333, holtrenfrew.com.

MARK LASH
Stocking up on bling? Head to the Mark Lash holiday sale, where stunning jewellery is 30 per cent off. Nov. 18 to 21. 938 Eglinton Ave. W., 416-256-5229; 9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill, 905-881-5229, marklash.com.

SYDNEY’S
After a fire damaged the boutique, the venerable Queen Street menswear retailer is back, with a designer sale in a new location: save at least 20 per cent on pieces from Shellac, Individual Sentiments, Rick Owens Drkshdw and Heutchy footwear. 689 Queen St. W., 416-603-3369, shopsydneys.com.

THINK TWICE
With a month to go before closing shop, the designer consignment store is offering up to 50 per cent off all clothing. 1679 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga, 905-823-2233.

HOME

AU LIT FINE LINENS
Pillows and duvets from the Au Lit Essentials collection are 25 per cent off the regular price. Until Nov. 30. 2049 Yonge St., 416-489-7010, aulitfinelinens.com.
ELTE
All Karastan carpets and broadloom are 20 per cent off this month. Until Nov. 30. 80 Ronald Ave., 416-785-7885, elte.com.

CRATE AND BARREL
All glassware, dinnerware and barware is up to 25 per cent off. Until Nov. 29. Yorkdale Shopping Centre, 2401 Dufferin St., 416-657-4100.

GINGER’S
Bathroom renovators, take note. This month, all Waterworks bathtubs are 20 per cent off. Until Nov. 30. 95 Ronald Ave., 416-787-1787, gingers.com.

QUASI MODO MODERN
Fabulously modern and colourful Vitra furniture is now 15 per cent off. Until Nov. 17. 789 Queen St. W., 416-703-8300, quasimodomodern.com.

RITA TESOLIN
The Toronto jewellery designer’s beautiful baubles are up to 90 per cent off at this sample sale. Nov. 20, 21, 27 and 28, 10–6. 63 Wingold Ave., Ste. 110.

STUDIO B
At this sale, floor models are between 20 and 50 per cent off. The grand Reina upholstered bed is now $5,300 (regularly $10,605). 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

EVENTS

MOOSE SHOW
The goods at this craft show—a good place to start holiday shopping—are all by Canadian artisans. Nov. 18 to 20. Canadian Broadcasting Centre, Barbara Frum Atrium, 250 Front St. W., mooseshow.com.

LESLIEVILLE WANDERLUST
This autumn evening neighbourhood party features a garden gnome hunt and a marshmallow roast at Ceili Cottage, but we’re going for the discounts at such local stores as Nathalie-Roze and Co., Damzels, Dorly Designs, GUFF and Max’s, where YogaJeans are on sale for $89. Nov. 18, 6–9 p.m. Queen Street from Logan to Greenwood.

Sales roundup: friends and family sales at American Apparel and Restoration Hardware, plus a Lacoste warehouse sale

Carley Fortune — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 15:54:29 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

AMERICAN APPAREL
Print out this flyer and get 20 per cent off your purchase. Until Nov. 14. Various GTA locations.

LACOSTE WAREHOUSE SALE
It’s not just shoes from Lacoste that up to 80 per cent off; so are Fred Perry and New Balance clothing, footwear and accessories. Nov. 10 to 14. The International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd., Mississauga, styledemocracy.com.

THINK TWICE
With a month to go before closing shop, the designer consignment store is offering up to 50 per cent off all clothing. 1679 Lakeshore Rd., Mississauga, 905-823-2233.

HOME

AU LIT FINE LINENS
Pillows and duvets from the Au Lit Essentials collection are 25 per cent off the regular price. Until Nov. 30. 2049 Yonge St., 416-489-7010, aulitfinelinens.com.

BLVD INTERIORS
Blvd is known for well-priced contemporary furniture, but the pieces are even more affordable at this sale, where sofas, chairs, beds and more are up to 75 per cent off. 570 Queen St. W., 416-362-5222, blvdinteriors.com.

ELTE
All Karastan carpets and broadloom are 20 per cent off this month. Until Nov. 30. 80 Ronald Ave., 416-785-7885, elte.com.

GINGER’S
Bathroom renovators, take note. This month, all Waterworks bathtubs are 20 per cent off. Until Nov. 30. 95 Ronald Ave., 416-787-1787, gingers.com.

RESTORATION HARDWARE
Another friends and family sale. This time, shoppers save 20 per cent on everything in store. Just fill in your e-mail address here. Nov. 11 to 14. 2434 Yonge St., 416-322-9422.

STUDIO B
Floor models from the ultra-glam Barbara Barry furniture collection are 40 per cent off. 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

EVENTS

Sales roundup: two designer sample sales, 25 per cent off at Au Lit, Baby Ben closing sale

Carley Fortune — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 14:58:00 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

ALYSSA AGENCY SAMPLE SALE
Pieces from Fidelity Denim, Covet and Brave are at least half off at this three-day sale. Cash only. Nov. 3 and 4, 11–7; Nov. 5, 11–5. 2770 Dufferin St., Ste. 206, 416-782-4169, alyssaagency.ca.

BABY BEN
Baby Ben—a locally made line of baby clothing, bunting bags and quilts—is shutting down operations. A two-day clearance sale will be held at the St. Alban’s Boys and Girls Club, with bunting bags for $65 (usually $144) and cowboy jackets for $45 (usually $85), along with tees, blanket bags, fabrics and more. Nov. 6 and 7. 843 Palmerston Ave., 2nd flr., 416-534-8461, babyben.ca.

LEIGH AND HARLOW
It’s Friends and Family Day this weekend, which means up to 25 per cent off everything in the store, including jeans from Hudson, J Brand and Paige. Nov. 6. 634 Queen St. W., 647-430-7774; The Shops at Don Mills, 4 Karl Fraser Rd., 647-341-6091, leighandharlow.com.

REIA STUDIO SAMPLE SALE
It’s the one we’ve been waiting for. Shoes and clothing from such designers as Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Ann Demeulemeester, Givenchy and many more are marked down by up to 70 per cent. Nov. 4 to 6. 555 Richmond St. W., Ste. 706, 416-777-9722, reiasamplesale.com.

TABULA RASA
The new women’s boutique’s mid-season sale includes 25 to 50 per cent off fall pieces. 745 Broadview Ave., 416-465-4450, tabularasaclothing.com.

WHITE
The latest of the bridal boutique’s trunk shows is from Anne Barge. Both her Couture (more traditional silk gowns) and Le Fleur (younger silhouettes with taffetta and tulle) collections will be on offer. By appointment only. Nov. 5 and 6. 19 Hazelton Ave., 416-849-9196, whitetoronto.com.

HOME

AU LIT FINE LINENS
Pillows and duvets from the Au Lit Essentials collection are 25 per cent off the regular price. Until Nov. 30. 2049 Yonge St., 416-489-7010, aulitfinelinens.com.

BLU DOT
It’s the 20/20/20 sale (20 per cent off for 20 days, starting October 20) on Blu Dot’s contemporary furniture, including the new collection of lighting. bludot.com.

DESIGN WITHIN REACH
Lusting after an antler chandelier? Ceiling, wall and table lamps are 15 per cent off at this lighting sale. Until Nov. 9. 435 King St. W., 416-977-4003.

GINGER’S
Bathroom renovators, take note. This month, all Waterworks bathtubs are 20 per cent off. Until Nov. 30. 95 Ronald Ave., 416-787-1787, gingers.com.

INDUSTRIAL STORM
The store’s collection of Piet Boon lighting is 20 per cent off. 1099 Queen St. W., 416-955-9888.

STUDIO B
Floor models from the ultra-glam Barbara Barry furniture collection are 40 per cent off. 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

EVENTS

HEART OF FASHION
This Bayview Village fundraiser for the Breast Diagnostic Centre at North York General Hospital is chaired by model Yasmin Warsame includes a fashion presentation, cocktails and a performance by Jully Black. Nov. 6., 6:30 p.m. $75–$250. Bayview Village, 2901 Bayview Ave., 416-756-6944, heartoffashion.ca.

Sales roundup: Triluxe sample sale, 70 per cent off glasses, fabric sale at the Textile Museum

Carley Fortune — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:05:23 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

LINEA INTIMA
Bring in a clean, gently used bra (donations go to a local women’s shelter) and receive $5 off the purchase of a new one. Until Oct. 31. 1925 Avenue Rd., 416-780-1726, lineaintima.com, plus four other GTA locations.

TRILUXE SAMPLE SALE
Clothing from Pringle of Scotland, J. Lindeberg, American Vintage and more is marked down by up to 80 per cent at this annual sale. Oct. 28 to 30. 63 Wingold Ave., Ste. 120, samplesale@triluxe.com.

WHITE
The latest in the bridal boutique’s trunk shows is from Anne Barge. Both her Couture (more traditional silk gowns) and Le Fleur (younger silhouettes with taffetta and tulle) collections will be on offer. By appointment only. Nov. 5 and 6. 19 Hazelton Ave., 416-849-9196, whitetoronto.com.

HOME

It’s the 20/20/20 sale (20 per cent off for 20 days, starting October 20) on Blu Dot’s contemporary furniture, including the new collection of lighting. bludot.com.

ONETWENTY MODERN
For the entire month, shoppers will save 20 per cent on any new sofa order. Until Oct. 31. Also on sale: select pieces from the Artemide lighting collection. Until Nov. 30. 120 Ossington Ave., 416-537-4400, onetwentymodern.com.

QUASI MODO MODERN
All furniture orders of Soft Line—makers of sleek-lined, Scandinavian-style sofas, chairs and tables—are 20 per cent off in October. Until Oct. 31. 789 Queen St. W., 416-703-8300, quasimodomodern.com.

STUDIO B
Floor models from the ultra-glam Barbara Barry furniture collection are 40 per cent off. 334 King St. E., 416-363-2996, studiobhome.com.

TEXTILE MUSEUM OF CANADA
For the Love of Cloth is the museum’s third annual fundraiser fabric sale, with prints, textiles, braids and buttons from such designers as Larsen, Nina Campbell and Osborne and Little. Oct. 29 and 30. 55 Centre Ave., 416-599-5321, textilemuseum.ca.

WILLIAMS-SONOMA
Still waiting to buy that Kitchen Aid stand mixer? All electronic kitchen appliances are 20 per cent off this week. Until Oct. 24. 100 Bloor St. W., 416-962-9455.

Sales roundup: trunk show at Holts, no tax at Due West, 20 per cent off Blu Dot and more

Carley Fortune — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:39:11 +0000

FASHION AND BEAUTY

DUE WEST
The Queen West purveyor of denim and outerwear doesn’t often mark down its Canada Goose merchandise, but shoppers looking for a puffy parka in which to wait out winter should head to the store this week, when there’s no tax on any purchase. Oct. 21 to 24. 431 Queen St. W., 416-593-6267.

JESSICA JENSEN
The Toronto designer is offering an extra 20 per cent off previously marked down leather clutches, wallets and handbags (one tote is now $552, down from $998) for on-line shoppers. Enter code EXTRA20SS at checkout. Until Oct. 26. shopjessicajensen.com.

MIDNIGHT MADNESS SAMPLE SALE
Men’s and women’s clothing (brands include Nudie Jeans, Gucci, Versace, Dior and more) is marked down by 40 to 80 per cent. Oct. 20 to 22. 10 a.m.–midnight. Le Parc Banquet Hall, 8432 Leslie St., Thornhill, 416-399-9959, torontosamplesales.com.

STYLE EXCHANGE
Get 30 per cent off everything at the store (including denim but excluding some outerwear) at this one-day friends and family event. RSVP “attending” on the Facebook group here. 181 Yonge St., 416-214-0111.

HOME

AVENUE ROAD
Save 20 per cent off all USM Modular Furniture’s timeless office furniture (1970s shades of brown and orange have been reintroduced). Until Oct. 23. 416 Eastern Ave., 416-548-7788, avenue-road.com.

BLU DOT
It’s the 20/20/20 sale (20 per cent off for 20 days, starting October 20) on Blu Dot’s contemporary furniture, including the new collection of lighting. bludot.com.

ONETWENTY MODERN
For the entire month, shoppers will save 20 per cent on any new sofa order. Until Oct. 31. 120 Ossington Ave., 416-537-4400, onetwentymodern.com.

QUASI MODO MODERN
All furniture orders of Soft Line—makers of sleek-lined, Scandinavian-style sofas, chairs and tables—is 20 per cent off in October. Until Oct. 31. 789 Queen St. W., 416-703-8300, quasimodomodern.com.

WEST ELM
Side tables and coffee tables are marked down by 20 per cent. Until Oct. 25. 109 Atlantic Ave., 416-537-0110.

WILLIAMS-SONOMA
All cookware is 20 per cent off this week. Until Oct. 24. 100 Bloor St. W., 416-962-9455.

EVENTS

CANADIAN DESIGNERS AT HOLT RENFREW
On Saturday, Holts is showcasing the spring collections of some of its favourite Canadian labels, including Greta and Ezra Constantine, Jeremy Laing, Denis Gagnon, Smythe, Line Runway and Mikhael Kale. Some of the designers will be on hand for shoppers to meet and place early orders. Oct. 23. 2–4. 50 Bloor St. W., 2nd flr., 416-922-2333.

MASANORI OJI
Junction housewares shop Mjölk is hosting the first solo exhibition of Masanori Oji’s works. The Tokyo-based designer will be in attendance at this showcase of his collection, along with prototypes and items not available in North America. RSVP to info@mjolk.ca. Oct. 21. 7:30 p.m.–10 p.m. 2959 Dundas St. W., 416-551-9853.