Cheryl Shops

Fall Shopping Guide: Purple
There's a reason it's the color of royalty, and purple has always been one of my favorite colors (after green, that is). But unlike green, which has been the most recent It color, there are a multitude of shades of purple that are way more flattering to a range skin tones. Yes, purple is the color of the season, and whether you want to go all-out with a dress or add a subtle accent with a shoe, there are endless options. But here are some of my favorites.

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At nearly a cool grand, this Miu Miu dress is veering dangerously into big-sister-Prada territory, but with its tulip shape and crinkled texture, it has a look that's more fun-loving than that of its intellectual sibling.


If I owned this dramatic Zac Posen blouse, I'd wear it with a black pencil skirt, black platform shoes, violet-scented perfume, and an air of mystery.


Derek Lam takes some flack from fashion critics for not really having a signature style, but I always seem to want the majority of looks that come down his runway, so I say if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Case in point: this sexy, sure-to-flatter crepe de chine blouse.


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I recently bought a winter coat with bracelet-length sleeves, and thus I have to buy those long gloves that have been around for a few seasons but whose purpose has finally become apparent. These Carolina Amato Gloves opera-length gloves are both bold and luxurious, and since they're leather with silk lining, they'll keep my hands, wrists, and forearms warm.


I'm tired of black purses--I seem to have way too many, being that I am somewhat practical when it comes to accessories--so I think a purple purse, like the Malababa Mini Carlota bag, is an excellent way to break out of bag rut (at a price that won't drain your wallet).


Purple shoes--whether you're coordinating with purple in your outfit or simply adding an unexpected pop of color--are, if you ask me, totally essential. That may sound like an excuse to buy a new pair of shoes, but with its flattering T-strap, hidden platform, and chunky heel, who needs an excuse to buy this Frye platform pump?


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Would you commit to a purple winter coat? What if it were only $45 and was reminiscent of a Mike & Chris babydoll hoodie? Meet your new winter coat, the Chester, from Forever 21.


Vera Wang's collection for Kohl's had some great purple pieces. A ruffled blouse that I was going to feature is already sold out, but this purple skirt can still be yours--if you're a 10, 12, or 14, that is.


I'm not going to lie--this purple boot from Urban Outfitters is not going to be for everyone. But humor me a minute and think how cool it will look with a black shift dress and tights, or with gray skinny jeans tucked in. It's a fashion risk, yes, but one that's just daring enough to pay off.

The week in shopping
It's less than two months to go before Christmas, and thus the prime fall sample sale season begins...

Get your socialite on in Rachel Roy's signature line, which is up to 75% off. 10/31-11/2; noon-7; 25 W. 39th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 14th fl.

A sale so promising, you can even drag your boyfriend to it: Converse by John Varvatos, Da-Nang, and Joe’s Jeans are $18 to $300. 10/31-11/2; 1-8 Wed., 8-8 Thurs., 10-6 Fri.; 145 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).

Malo is some of the most luxe cashmere around, but you can score men's and women's knits for 70% off. 11/4-11/7; 9-6:30, 9-5 Wed.; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Helen Wang is a master with silk; score her pretty party dresses for $139 a pop at this sale. 10/31-11/2; 1-8 Wed., 8-8 Thurs., 10-6 Fri.; 145 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).

Hit Clothingline for Helmut Lang and Rag & Bone; prices are approximately 60% off retail. 10/31-11/2; 10-7, 10-6 Fri.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.

Lifesavers for the working girl, Rebecca & Drew's ingenious shirts are $20 and up at this sale. 11/1-11/3; 11-7, 11-6 Sat.; 344 W. 13th St. (Hudson & Greenwich Sts.).

For the stylish man in your life, BBlessing has Raf Simons, Preen, and Opening Ceremony for up to 80% off. 11/2-11/3; noon-7; 5 Crosby St. (at Grand St.), ste. 6D.

Wear your Halloween costume to Beverly Feldman for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate; while you're there, hit the sale and score some glam shoes for 30% off. 10/31; 10-7; 7 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).

Holy shoes, Batman: Nancy Geist, nancynancy, Something Blue, and Butter are $80 and up. 11/2-11/8; 10-7 (closed Sat. & Sun.); 307 7th Ave. (at 27th St.), ste. 2307.

At Norma Kamali's '80s-chic looks are now 50%-75% off. Through 11/16; 10-6 (closed Sun.); 11 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).

For the nattily dressed gentleman in your life, Hickey Freeman and Bobby Jones are $59.99 (for sweaters) to $699.99 (for suits). Through 11/1; 9-6:30, 9-5 Thurs.; 317 W. 33rd St. (7th & 8th Aves.).

Bring sexy back with John Varvatos wares for 60%-70% off. Through 11/4; 10-6, 11-7 Sat. & Sun.; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).

You can't go wrong with classic shoes from Delman; here, prices range from $75 for flats to $150 for boots. 11/1-11/3; 10-7; 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).

Save 20% on all non-sale handbags--think Marc by Marc Jacobs, Botkier, and Gustto--at shopbop.com when you enter code ARMCANDY through 10/31.

Take $10 off orders of $75 or more when you enter code LS752
at FragranceNet.com through 10/31.

Take 20% off select shoes at Piperlime.

Fall Fashion Guide: Spectator Pumps
My grandma was one stylish lady. She was always impeccably dressed, in tailored suits, loads of costume jewelry, and spectator pumps. I can rock a suit on job-interview days without a problem and costume jewelry (most of it my grandma's) is a way of life for me. But I've never been able to pull off spectator pumps; I've always found them a bit too prim and proper for my taste. But with all the '20s-inspired Bonnie & Clyde looks for fall--and the chunkier reinterpretation of the spectator pump--I think it might be time to give it another try, especially with all the delicious options here.

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This Moschino pump has a classic look that would work in even the stuffiest Midtown office. And, you know, I think even my grandma would approve.


With its lace-up detailing, this Marc Jacobs pump is more of a bootie, but I love the chunky heel and the neutral metallic coloring. Plus, it's less fussy and a lot cooler than the typical spectator.


Do you remember when Miu Miu shoes were somewhat affordable? Even though in recent seasons they've ventured into ultra-pricey territory, I think shoes like this madcap patchwork pump are definitely splurgeworthy.


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If I had to pick a favorite type of shoe, it would be the Mary Jane--I find there's no shoe that better combines sexiness with sweetness. Which is probably why I find this spectator Mary Jane from Barneys so irresistible.


I've been debating whether to put this Marc by Marc Jacobs two-tone pump pump in the shopping guide, because I can't decide whether it's fab or fug. But I've noticed in the past that whenever I have this internal debate about a pair of shoes and end up buying them, I always get a lot of compliments on them. So there you go.



Betsey Johnson's Walsh pump is a slightly more streamlined, feminine version of the above look. I'm always a fan of the hidden platform, and the pink sole is a fun touch.


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I like the little bit of fringe on this Poetic Licence pump--it's a little bit golf course, a little bit Great Gatsby.


This Isaac Mizrahi for Target pump is so simple, you can't go wrong (the price is right too). The neutral, tonal coloring is perfect too for those who want to try the look without going too extreme.


But my favorite style overall is, believe it or not, this Mary Jane from the Alloy catalogue. As I said before, I can't turn down a good Mary Jane, plus the stacked platform gives it a youthful look. And for $30, I feel like you can't pass it up. I think even my grandma might like it.

Fall Shopping Guide: Short-Sleeve Coats
In spite of all the denials by delusional right-wing politicians, I think we can safely say that global warming is a certainty. Case in point: Yesterday was October 23rd, and the high in New York City was 78 degrees. And while I'm not the biggest fan of that bone-chilling winter weather, you have to admit that 70-degree weather in October is just plain wrong. So until Al Gore and the other world leaders (um, that would be everyone except our dear President) solve the problem, I introduce to you the short-sleeve coat. Yes, it's impractical--extra-long gloves and skillful layering are in order--but desperate times call for desperate measures.

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To counteract the short sleeves, it helps to have a nice, thick, luxurious cashmere that will keep out the cold. This Marc Jacobs coat is cashmere and, for nearly $4k, you can rest assured that it's made from the good stuff.


At $1,300, this Stella McCartney coat seems like a veritable bargain in comparison, but I think the cut is even better--it looks cozy and chic, like an ultra-upscale version of a Mike & Chris hoodie.


Karoo Mark Eisen's swing coat isn't a true short-sleeve style--I'd call it more of a three-quarter--but if you're more conservative with your coats, it's a slightly more practical way to wear the look.


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Tibi is a label that I wish got more attention--the clothes are incredibly well-made for the price, and the styles are trendy without being derivative or fashion victim-y. I love the sleek, clean lines of this bell-sleeve coat, but it's roomy enough to fit the requisite chunky sweater underneath.


Calling Generra's short-sleeve coat, with its collarless style, bubble hem, and banded sleeves, a coat is, well, a bit of a stretch. But I think it looks incredibly modern, and the price is right.


But while modern is always appealing, I have a soft spot for retro too. LaROK's Marlena coat looks like something Mia Farrow would've worn in the '60s, but the shape is current enough to work right now too.


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If you're still not sure about the whole short-sleeve thing, you can always hit the juniors department for a bargain. This babydoll coat looks basic at first glance, but it has metallic thread for a subtle sparkle, perfect for night.


Topshop has a number of short-sleeve styles, but I like the military-trench-coat styling of this one.


Of course, there's the coat that started my obsession, this belted version from Simply Vera Wang. Of course, it's sold out in the smaller sizes, but word on the street is that her next line will not be cut so generously. Then again, hopefully by next year the weather will be back to normal and you'll need a proper coat.

I have a busy week ahead...
...so I'm not sure if I'll have time to post sales. Thankfully, today's Daily Candy covered most of them. I promise I will post something on Wednesday night, though, so please come back soon!

Fall Shopping Guide: Schoolboy blazers
Once upon a time, a highly influential designer named Nicolas Ghesquiere sent models down the runway wearing slouchy jodhpurs (more on those later) and shrunken schoolboy blazers. The fashion world collectively swooned, and now derivative looks are appearing left and right. Balenciaga's show featured a variety of styles--some tipped, some striped, some classic navy with monogram--and asking me to pick my favorite would be asking me to make Sophie's Choice. (Well, okay, I exaggerate. My favorite is the navy tipped blazer.) Pair with an Algerian-type woven scarf for a straight-from-the-runway look, or get more creative with your neckwear via a vintage Hermes scarf or layers of chunky costume jewelry. As for the jodhpurs, look for them in a later Fall Shopping Guide post.

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At $2,500, this Celine jacket doesn't seem like much of a bargain compared with Balenciaga's. And it's not. However, this clever style is not only reversible to black--hello, two jackets in one!--but you can modify the lapel as well, taking it from a narrow notched style to a deeper, navel-grazing one.


Ralph Lauren's monogrammed flannel blazer doesn't scream knockoff; rather, it looks like you've borrowed Serena van der Woodsen's prep school uniform. And who doesn't want to look like they've just walked off the set of Gossip Girl?


But when I think "schoolboy blazer," the first store that comes to mind is Brooks Brothers. So considering this striped jacket, part of the Black Fleece collection, was designed by Thom Browne, you can be sure the tailoring will be impeccable, giving Ghesquiere--a master cutter in this own right--a run for his money.


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The proportions on this 3.1 Phillip Lim jacket are not quite right--it's a bit too cropped, and the double-breasted cut is not exactly what I had in mind--but if you're on the petite side (of if, like me, you're high-waisted), the boxy cut will flatter.


The fact that this Rag & Bone jacket is tweed makes it equal parts schoolboy and Chanel-inspired, giving it a more grown-up, ladylike look.


Faran at Fashionista has spent much time and effort chronicling the J.Crew Lexington blazer; it's sold out in navy online, but apparently the navy is on sale in stores for $199. The gray is still pretty cute, though, and since you can wear it with black, I'd almost call it more versatile too.


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Naming this Lux blazer after one of the most exclusive prep schools in the country gives it instant cred; while it comes in a more sedate gray, I like the irreverence of the purple version.


This Topshop jacket has more of a military inspiration, but it's very rock-and-roll too, and thus perfect if you feel like you can't totally pull off the preppy look. I also like that even with the crapola exchange rate, it still feels like a bargain for such sharp tailoring.


However, I think the best pick of all--and the one I'm going to order--is this simple yet totally standout blazer from, of all people, Tommy Hilfiger. What can I say? It's preppy perfection.

Fall Shopping Guide: Sweater Dresses
The great dress renaissance is still in full effect, which is good news for lazy gals like me--dresses are incredibly easy (hello, one piece!), feminine, and often comfortable. Speaking of which, if the temperature ever starts to drop, there's nothing cozier than a sweater dress. Interesting details and shaping keep them from looking like, well, you're wearing a sweater as a dress. Pair 'em with tights and boots and, if you are looking for a challenge, layer it with a turtleneck for added warmth. Voila--there's your winter uniform. You're welcome!

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Shopbop has a ton of cute sweater dresses, the first of which being Jovovich-Hawk's Viola. I like the asymmetrical look, and the fact that it zips up gives is a very Bond-babe sexiness.


I love how Stella McCartney made this kitschy Fairisle sweater look cool. I think all it needs is some black leggings and Doc Martens for an all-out grunge-revival.


But if you're going to splurge, why not do it on this gorgeous Nina Ricci Sweater Dress? Part of Olivier Theyskens' first collection for the house, it's sure to be a collector's item. But if you're going to actually wear it, I'd suggest a slip and some opaque tights underneath for modesty's sake.


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I'm glad Mark Eisen is back with his knitwear line Karoo, because dresses like this cashmere boatneck are cut in a flattering manner and finished with unique details. And they're super-soft, which is always a bonus.


Vanessa Bruno has always done interesting things with jersey, and now for fall, she's working with heavier knits. I love the pleating at the shoulders and sleeves of this sweater dress; it has that effortless-cool look that all of her pieces do.


Another designer who usually is innovative with jersey is Mara Hoffman, and, again, with this cashmere dress, the interest is all in the sleeve--Juliet sleeves, to be exact. The short length keeps it sexy and prevents it from veering into Renaissance Faire territory.


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This sweater dress from Forever 21 has a curvy shape that prevents the knit from looking too heavy and bulky. It's a whole lotta synthetic fibers, but this is the perfect thing to wear for a night out--pair with motorcycle boots and/or a fitted leather jacket. Bonus: You can throw it in the washing machine.


Up until a few weeks ago, I had no idea that the merchandise in European Gaps is different than what's in U.S. stores. Lucky for us, a small selection of European looks is available online, including this sweater dress, whose sweeping sleeves are clearly far too dramatic for the U.S. market.


This belted sweater dress from Alice Temperley's Go International Target collection was one of the standout pieces--and tellingly so, it's almost sold out. Check your local store or, better yet, eBay if you don't see your size here--that's what I'll be doing.

New @ Cheryl Shops
In honor of Cheryl Shops' four-year anniversary (yes, this blog is four years old now--for a good time, check out the archive at the right), I decided to update the sidebar. Gone are the non-functioning links (um, how long has Shop Etc. been out of business?); I've added links to lots more blogs, so check them out when you get a chance. I also updated the "recommended shopping" links--these are all sites where I shop, and I wouldn't recommend them if I didn't like them--so please click on 'em and buy a lot of stuff. Cheryl Shops appreciates your financial support. A special shout-out to new advertisers Beauty.com, Banana Republic, Gap.com, oldnavy.com, and my new favorite shoe site, Piperlime (they're currently having a fabulous sale).

In other exciting news, I am hard at work on the Cheryl Shops Fall Shopping Guide; I'll start posting it tonight at the earliest or Thursday night at the latest. I'm very excited with what I've put together so far, so even though I already blew my fall budget in France, I might have to indulge in some of my finds. As always, the shopping guide will feature looks in three different price points, so whether you're a penny-pincher or a maxer-outer, there will be something for you! So come back soon and check it out!

The week in shopping
The contemporary website Max & Chloe is setting up a bricks-and-mortar shop to sell accessories from Kenneth Jay Lane, Anna Corinna, and more for 60%-80% off. 10/18-10/20; 4-9 Thurs. & Fri., 11-8 Sat.; 122 W. 26th St. (6th & Broadway), ste. 603.

Stock up on all manner of fur accessories at Adrienne Landau's sale. 10/17-10/18; 9:30-6; 519 8th Ave. (at 35th St.), 21st fl.

Gold and silver jewelery from Slane & Slane is 50%-60% off (now $50-$5,000). 10/17-10/19; noon-8 Wed., 10-8 Thurs., 10-6 Fri.; 65 W. 54th St., (Park & Madison Aves.), 2nd fl.

For the laddies with buns in their ovens, Liz Lange's maternity wear is up to 70% off. Through 10/31; 8:30-6:30 (closed weekends); 347 W. 36th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Save up to 80% on Lalique, Christofle, and Temple St. Clair at this fan-cee jewelry and home accessories sale. 10/18-10/21; 9-6:30, 9-5 Sun.; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Take 20% off your order at celeb fave ShopIntuition.com when you enter code CELEBSTYLE at checkout through 10/31.

Guilty Pleasure: M by Mariah Carey
I tend to find celebrity fragrances a bit silly. Paris' and Britney's smell like hairspray and candy; Sarah Jessica's smells like Narcisco Rodriguez; JLO's, Hilary's and Gwen's aren't bad per se, but they aren't really distinctive enough either. So when my coworker offered me a bottle of M by Mariah Carey, I tried to turn it down, but she insisted I take it. Okay, so the bottle is pretty--it's purple, with a Lalique-esque butterfly cap--but I was understandably skeptical about what was inside. This is Mariah Carey, after all; can you truly capture the scent of crazy? The notes don't do much to help her case: marshmallow, "ocean breeze", tiare, gardenia, amber, patchouli, and incense. However, somehow, like Mariah herself, it all seems to work. In fact, it smells incredibly good. There is definitely a marshmallow accord, but not in an I-want-to-eat-my-arm kind of way. It's sweet, but not sickeningly so, and it fades into a nice, warm drydown. Is it going to be my signature scent? No, but I like it a lot, and I plan on wearing it until I find my elusive Holy Grail...so go ahead, call me crazy too.

America's Next Top Model: the most disappointing makeover episode ever
Is it me or did the makeover episode of last night's America's Next Top Model kind of suck? It seemed like a third of the girls had very little done to them; a third went short; and a third got weaves. And with the exception of Bianca's silent, stoic tears, there was no crying and no drama! Everyone was all, "I love my hair!" Bo-ring! I will admit, I love Chantal's bangs--if my hair looked like that, I would be an incredibly happy girl. I think darker hair was definitely a smart choice for Janet, although her days are clearly numbered, since the judges already think she's too "men's magazine." While I was a bit nervous about cutting Sarah's hair short, I think it does make her look better and more distinctive. And Heather, hello, she's so perfect as she is, they didn't have to do anything to her! But that's where the good ends. Bianca does look better with a shaved head, but that wig they gave her is atrocious. I don't understand what they did to Lisa's hair. At all. Saleisha looks like Tootie. Ebony is too wrecked for me to fully appreciate what they did for her. And Ambreal...I keep forgetting who she is anyway. As for poor, poor Jenah, her weave is already out of control, and the platinum hue brings out the redness in her skin; did ANTM not learn its lesson from Brittany last cycle?

And then there's Victoria, who was the first anecdote of the show...and thus obviously the girl who would be going home. (Note to ANTM producers: You need to get more creative with the editing. You're giving it away.) As much as I loved her for standing up to Twiggy's b.s., I was starting to loathe her whole, "I'm not a model! I don't know how to do my makeup! I'm just a nerd from Yale!" schtick. You can tell that Victoria is an overachiever who's used to winning, and I'm sure it pained her to suck at modeling; at the end of the episode, she seemed like the happiest girl ever to get kicked off the show.

Next week, the girls do some bizarre photo shoot, and there had better be tears this time!

LuckyShops 2007
While I tend to oppose pay-to-shop events on principle (I'm looking at you, Billion Dollar Babes), there are always exceptions to the rule. If you're the type who summers in the Hamptons, for example, there's Super Saturday, which features legendary deals while managing to raise millions (yes, millions) for ovarian cancer research. I, on the other hand, live in a walkup in Brooklyn and, when on the South Fork, stay in a charming but slightly musty hotel in Monauk. Thankfully, for people like me (and you too!) there's LuckyShops, a charity shopping event sponsored by everyone's favorite shopping mag and featuring many of the coveted designers featured in its pages. You can score current- and past-season merch from labels like Chloe, Sigerson Morrison, Catherine Malandrino, and Marc Jacobs for up to 70% off (click here for a full list of vendors). Yes, there is an admission charge ($75 in advance and $85 at the door for the first day, $40/$45 for the second), but you get a gift bag stocked with $100 in products, so it's a win-win situation. More importantly, proceeds benefit Baby Buggy, a charity that provides clothing and gear for area kids. And, if you're going to shop anyway, you might as well do if for the kids. 10/26-10/27; noon-7 Fri., 10-7 Sat.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.). Click here to buy tickets.

Buy it: Kiehl's Abyssine Serum
Up until about a year and a half ago, I had skin so dry, it required heavy moisturizing cream in summer and, in desperate times, Aquaphor. Ever since then, when I made a medication change, my skin has been like a freaking oil slick. A related consequence is that my pores are now big enough to swim in (which may also be due to the fact that I'm getting older as well). I have tried everything from regular facials to microdermabrasion scrubs to Boots No7 Restore & Renew Serum, and nothing seemed to work. That is, until I ran out of Restore & Renew and, in a pinch, cracked open an old sample of Kiehl's Abyssine Serum. The next day, my skin looked so great, I ran out and bought an entire bottle. Not only have my pores shrunk considerably, but my skin is smooth and glowing. Why I waited so long to try the serum--it's been out for several years now--is beyond me. But I am now a true convert; I bought the eye cream, and I have a sample of both the cream and the SPF 15 lotion. Now if only I could find a product to get rid of my midday nose shine...

The week in shopping
Who doesn't love Dolce & Gabbana? Score pieces for men and women (and from lower-pried D&G line too) for up to 70% off. 10/12-10/14; 9-6 Fri., 10-6 Sat., 11-5 Sun.; 85 Spring St. (at Broadway).

If you're still into Calypso's boho-chic aesthetic, hit the warehouse sale for excellent bargains from the house label and other groovy designers. 10/11-10/15; noon-6 Thurs., 10-6 Fri. & Sat., 11-5 Sun.; 378 Broadway (at White St.).

Tracy Feith makes dresses that are kind of quirky but nonetheless very cool, and they're $75 and up at this sale, which I will try very hard to make. 10/12-10/14; 10-7; 410 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.), 2nd fl.

Luxe, well-made glasses from Robert Marc are 50%-90% off. 10/11-10/13; 10-7; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.

At Bulga's sample sale, their buttery-soft leather bags will be somewhat more affordable (think $300-ish). 10/9-10/12; 9-7; 208 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 203.

Give your bedroom a dose of Italian style with Pratesi's luxe linens at up to 75% off (towels are $20 and up). 10/14-10/16; 9-6:30; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Escada's semi-flashy womenswear is up to 85% off. 10/11-10/14; 10-8 Thurs. & Fri., 10-6 Sat. & Sun.; Altman Building, 135 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).

Make the trek to Huntington Station, NY, and be rewarded with Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Charles R. Mackintosh furniture for up to 70% off at the Cassina USA warehouse sale. There is a shuttle from the Huntington Station stop to the sale. 10/12-10/14; noon-8 Fri., 10-6 Sat., 11-5 Sun.; 200 McKay Rd. (at Railroad Ave.), Huntington Station, NY.

The Bridal Garden has sample and overstock gowns from Angel Sanchez, Ulla Maija, and Melissa Sweet for 50%-75% off. 10/10-11/4; 54 W. 21st St. (5th & 6th Aves.), ste. 907; call 212-252-0661 for an appointment.

Blibetroy's leather bags and accessories are $5-$200. 10/11-10/13; noon-6; 110 S. 1st St. (at Berry St.), Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

If you're a six or an eight, head to Cinzia Rocca's sample sale for outerwear for 50%-70% off. Cash only. 10/10-10/12; 9-5; 525 7th Ave. (at 38th St.), ste. 1610.

If you're into this sort of thing, Guiliano Teso's fur coats and jackets are up to 85% off. 10/9-10/11; 10-6; 584 Broadway (Prince & Spring Sts.), ste. 501.

This week, Clothingline has Free People. See website for details.

Stila's website, Stilacosmetics.com, is back after an upgrade, so take 20% off and get free shipping on a $50 order when you enter code WELCOMEBACK at checkout.

Save 10% on select items at Design Within Reach's semi-annual sale, through 10/16.

America's Next Top Model is back!
Well, America's Next Top Model has been back for two weeks already, but since I was on vacay for the first two episodes, this is my first post about it. So, among the ridiculous points of note thus far is that this is a "green" cycle of ANTM, which is admirable in theory, but the fact that the first episode took place on a fuel-guzzling cruise ship seems a bit hypocritical to me. Also, Tyra is not allowing any of the contestants to smoke on this cycle, which seems a bit harsh. If a contestant is caught smoking, will she be kicked off the show? The logical thing to do would be to just not show any of the girls smoking on camera, but that would probably mean--god forbid--missing out on some juicy bits. This cycle also already has a resident bitch, Queens' own Bianca, who is so incredibly insecure that she picks fights with anyone who is more talented than her. Which is everyone. While she was in the bottom two this week, I'm assuming Tyra is keeping her on just so she can break Bianca down and make her cry at some point. Perhaps it will happen in next week's makeover episode. Hmm... There's one "plus size" contestant, Sarah, who is about 30 pounds away from actually being plus size and seems incredibly well-adjusted. If she knows what's good for her, she'll develop a personality ASAP. We also have our first Ivy League contestant, the Yalie Victoria, who has managed to sass Twiggy twice, endearing her greatly to me, as I think Twiggy is an idiot. Now all she needs to do is drop her "I'm a geek" schtick and she'll be in the running for one of my favorites. But as of now, that honor belongs to Heather, the contestant with Asberger's syndrome (which, as we all know by now, is a mild form of autism). Heather is awesome not only because she's the most ugly-duckling-beautiful contestant since Shandi, but because you know she's not going to fall into the typical ANTM cycle (pun intended) of crying and catfights. Which hopefully means she'll stick around for awhile, but in the meantime, I can't wait for the makeover episode next week. There had better be tears, or I'm going to feel incredibly let down.