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    Valentine’s Day Shopping Guide

    Valentine’s Day is less than a week away and there is no better spot to shop for your loved one than Madison Avenue. Today we are picking our favorite local spots to warm the heart of your special someone. You can’t go wrong with any of these Spy favorites.

    Something Steamy
    Agent Provocateur
    212-840-2436
    675 Madison Avenue (between 61st & 62nd)
    Regardless if you’re naughty or nice, there’s no doubt you can find something lacy and racy at Agent Provocateur. Don’t know what to choose? Ask to see the Sprinkle collection, which is a pretty safe choice with its ’60s inspired flirty flavor.

    Dolce & Gabbana
    212-249-4100
    825 Madison Avenue (between 68th & 69th)
    Dolce may not be the most obvious choice for underpinnings but the boutique has an entire collection of hot lingerie. Choose something in leopard to bring out your gal’s wild side.

    La Perla
    212-570-0050
    803 Madison Avenue (between 67th & 68th)
    When it comes to lingerie, La Perla is the cream of the crop. We especially like the sweet vintage inspired pieces. If you’re shopping on more of a budget the La Perla Studio basics are always appreciated and useful.



    Something Sweet
    Ladurée

    646-558-3157
    864 Madison Avenue (between 70th & 71st)
    Madison Avenue newcomer, Laduree, has taken the neighborhood by storm. We have never seen an establishment that causes irreverent Upper East Siders to stand on line like they do for the these macaroons that all imported from Paris daily.

    Lady M Confections
    212-452-2222
    41 East 78th Street (Off Madison)
    This tiny bakery is hidden slightly onto 78th street and offers the most delightful treats. Lady M is best known for their Mille Crepes but we have a bias towards the checkerboard cake. Yum!

    William Greenberg Desserts
    212-744-0304
    1100 Madison (between 82nd & 83ed)
    Looking for an unexpected sweet something? William Greenberg is the place to go.  This Bakery has been satiating the sweet tooths’ of uptowners for more than 60 years and there’s a reason why. I can personally vouch that the butter cookies taste the same today as they did when I was five. For Valentine’s Day, don’t miss the linzer tarts.



    Something Pretty
    Flowers By Philip
    212-535-1388
    1141 Madison Avenue (between 84th & 85th)
    “Philip’s” is an uptown classic that has been in the neighborhood for more than 50 years.  You can always expect a tasteful arraignment to accompany your celebration.

    L’Olivier
    212-774-7676
    19 E 76th Street (between 5th & Madison)
    This is the place to go if you’re looking for an arrangement that is a bit less classic and a bit sleeker. Imagine smaller arrangements tightly packed with flowers to give a big impression. L’Olivier furnishes the flowers at high-end establishments like the Carlyle and Daniel Boulud.

    Ovando Flowers
    212-988-2600
    19 E 65th Street (between 5th & Madison)
    Ovando brings creativity to floral design without any of the cheesy cliches.  The arrangements are often dramatic, bright and passionate, just like your loved one.  Corporate clients include, Hermes, The Mark and 583 Park Avenue.


    Something Glittery
    Alexis Bittar
    212-249-3581
    1100 Madison Avenue (between 82nd & 83rd)

    You can’t go wrong at Alexis Bittar if you’re shopping for an item that’s more fashionable and less crowned jewels. We always like the creative but eye-catching earrings that come in an assortment of shapes and sizes.

    Cartier

    212-472-6400
    828 Madison Avenue (between 69th & 70th)
    No Valentine’s list would be complete without a bit of love from Cartier. The classic LOVE collection is always a holiday favorite.

    Graff
    212-355-9292
    710 Madison Avenue (Between 63rd & 64th)

    If you’re looking to buy your queen some really royal gems then Graff is the place to go. The company’s jewelry collection contains some of the most important large stones in the world. We are sure you can find something smaller here too but then you would be missing out on stones like The Graff Pink.

    Something for Him
    Eton of Sweden
    212-758-3866
    625 Madison Avenue (between 58th and 59th)
    What better way to let you man know you love him than to have an interactive shopping experience? Eton is loved for their wrinkle-free cotton, which is wondrously created without any chemicals. The store carries a stock book with more than 250 patterns that is sure to make this gift creative as well as thoughtful.

    J. Crew Collection
    212-453-2677
    1040 Madison Ave (between 79th & 80th)
    Lets face it, men can be picky. J. Crew offers basics that are sure to be within the comfort zone of most men. If you’re looking to push the boundaries, we suggest buying a set of bright Corgi socks. They will be sure to add the a POC (pop of color) that is the bright spot of fashion this season.

    Tom Ford
    212-359-0300
    845 Madison Avenue (between 70th & 71st)
    Tom Ford. Do we need to say more? Loved by both men and woman alike, you can find an variety of items to make you and your Valentine swoon. We love the For Men fragrance that contains a woody floral musk. In addition, the men’s leather accessories are always a big hit. Worst case scenario, he hates what you get and you can use the credit for yourself. Wait, that would be the best case scenario. Right?

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    Spring Cleaning for Cash

    The unseasonably warm weather is giving us a premature urge to shop for summer. Before adding spring brights to an already overstuffed closet, it may be a good idea to consider purging items that have been out of your regular rotation for more than a year.


    After all the hard closet organizing work is done, you will have to figure out what to do with all those designer loves that are much too good for ordinary Goodwill. That’s when we turn to The RealReal. The online consignment store offers sellers more money than others with 60% off the sale price going to the consigner. Then after you reach $1500 in sales your share bumps up to 70%. Try finding a deal like that.



    In addition, to paying more money than other consignment shops, The RealReal makes the process virtually effortless. All you need to do is fill out the online consignment form and The RealReal will pick up your items if you have 10 items and live in the New York, Los Angeles or San Francisco areas. You can track your sales online and then the best part—cash your check.
    What are you waiting for? Go… go… clean your closet!


    The RealReal
    855-435-5893 (9am-5pm PT)
    email us: stylist@TheRealReal.com

    Sponsored Post 

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    French Lux Companies Raise Prices

    Price hikes of luxury items have become almost as common as political indiscretions. You don’t know when they will happen, or to which brand, but it’s bound to happen. Last week when we heard about a price hike at Chanel we yawned. An increase at Hermes made us sigh, a bump at Celine raised an eyebrow and the jump at Goyard finally made us sit up and wonder.

    Yes, it’s true, in the past month we’ve counted four French luxury brands that raised their prices on bags ranging from from 6% to 40%. As a matter of fact, the euro, which often influences the price of luxury goods in the United States was down almost 20% from highs last spring. The foreign currency has recovered a bit since last month but not enough to drive up sticker prices.

    click on the image to see the stats

    So what could be the source of the recent French fashion fix? Fashion analysts, believe that despite the global recession, growth in the world’s billionaires is causing the price of luxury to rise. The corporate strategy appears to edge-out higher margins and profits while the opportunity presents itself.

    An industry insider, was appalled when we told him that the Maxi size Chanel classic-flap bag was been repriced at $5400 from $4700. Handbags have the highest margins of any product in your local department store. That means that your pricey purse is more profitable than the smelly water otherwise known as perfume. We are told that most bags cost about $100 to make and that includes “the most popular hand-made” brands.

    “It’s a high class problem,” a fashion finance expert says. “It’s the story of the never ending gobstopper.”

    So how is this gobstopper effecting sales at your favorite boutiques and department stores? A Chanel sales person admitted that customers are not happy with the 13% increase of classic style bags. In the same breath, however, there is a 100 person waiting list for a medium size flap bag.

    At Hermes, the popular Evelyne bag was $2900 for the large size but went to $3125 last week. “I’ve yet to see a customer freak out,” the bag specialist remarked. “We have what people want and they continue to pay for it.”

    The St. Louis Goyard tote saw the biggest price gain of all our French subjects, going from $1170 to $1670. Most customers would agree that this bag may be past its prime but the company feels otherwise. “It was explained that Goyard is expanding and planning on opening more stores and needs more income,” said a brand specialist.

    Over at Celine, the popular Luggage Tote is now $2300 from $2000. Only two season ago the same bag was $1650. This is a classic example of supply and demand, an industry expert said. Right now there are waiting lists for this bag, so why not try to eek out more profits while the style is hot. Next season it will be a different bag and a different style.

    So, as you begin to digest these new prices, will your shopping habits change? Is this gobstopper too hard to digest or is the temptation of luxury brands just too sweet to resist?

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    Manolo Blahnik Final Markdown

    Monday is the start of the Manolo Blahnik super semi-annual sale. This four day sale is the perfect opportunity to stock up on classic and ornate shoes from the fall and winter collection at up to 75% off.

    This year, we are told that the saving are “not to be believed!” Styles are from the exclusive boutique collection and include some alligator. Prices are always marked by sticker dots, which usually range from $195 for a red dot up to $350 for a green dot. Most shoes and low boots– even highly ornate styles– are priced at $250.

    Last year, we spotted Manolo Timberlands, in an assortment of colors for $250. Knee high velvet Suwalki boots for $350 and leather trim booties for $250. Green and black suede shoes with gems were just $195 from $1255.

    The store maybe crowded but at least there isn’t a long line to get in. The sale will only run for four days and styles and sizes run low quickly. If you’re looking for a great deal we suggest you switch out of your heels and take a run over to the boutique asap.

    Who needs an obnoxious sample sale when you can take care of wonderful prices right now?

    Manolo Blahnik
    31 West 54th Street
    212-582-3007
    Monday-Friday 10:30 am to 6pm Sunday 12pm to 5pm
    The boutique will close from 2pm to 3pm to restock when necessary

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    The It-it: J Crew Pixie Pants

    As much I’ve tired, I’ve had a hard time fitting into the J. Crew look. Maybe it’s too preppy or maybe it’s too mainstream. In the meantime, the jewelry keeps me coming back again and again.

    Recently, while in a pinch, I ran into the Madison Avenue boutique and asked for a legging or a pair of tight black pants. The sales person declared she had the perfect solution, Pixie Pants. The pants fall into a category between a riding pant and legging, which is perfect for cooler months. They are also substantial enough to be worn to the office.

    I can’t tell you how addicted I am to my Pixie pants. They have become a staple of my wardrobe and I’ve insisted that all my friends purchase at least one pair. So far, everyone is thrilled! The pants retail for $88 but J. Crew often has 30% off sales, which brings the total to just $64. They are currently sold out online but are stocked at many boutiques in Manhattan.

    They do tend to run large, so go a size smaller. I can’t say enough good things about Pixie pants.

    J. Crew Pixie Pants ($88)

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    Weekend Shopping: Manhattan Vintage

    By ManhattanMataHari

    Normally we won’t pay to shop, but the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show and Sale promises more than an everyday shopping experience. This Friday and Saturday, patrons can enjoy a veritable history of haute designer labels and a special exhibit featuring Christian Lacroix. Our experience shopping the show last year was mixed. Be forewarned there are many booths to peruse for unique vintage finds, so be sure to pace yourself!

    The first thing to keep in mind is that some of the vintage designer pieces will be as expensive, if not more so than current designs. The trade off is you will never have to worry about another woman arriving at an event in the same dress. We saw lots of vintage Emilio Pucci and Missoni print dresses last year, but they were a bit too pricey in the $500 to $1000 range. There were also a number of classic Chanel boucle wool knit separates and suits at about the same price range, which is too extreme considering increasing Chanel retail prices.

    Be on the lookout for the accessories booths. The selection of classic Chanel flap bags, Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags, vintage Bottega Veneta intrecciato purses and Louis Vuitton bags and trunks are unmatched. Many limited editions and rare colors and styles are available, with price tags to match. Some of the booth owners may be willing to negotiate a bit on price.

    The major highlight from last year was our $50 fur find. Granted, a hook closure needed to be replaced and a cleaning was in order, but this chic short fur jacket with classic lines was a steal. There were a variety of short fur jackets under $200, although we didn’t see any long fur strollers. With a little TLC your vintage cheap fur find can become your winter style staple.

    The Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show and Sale is the perfect blend of exhibit and flea market. It is a weekend entertainment trip well worth the $15 admission after our $5 off coupon.

    Manhattan Vintage
    February 3rd & 4th
    125 WEST 18TH ST., NYC
    Metropolitan Pavilion

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    Cobra Starship x Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Week

    For the past several seasons American Express has made a effort to give their card members access to the most well guarded velvet ropes, Fashion Week. This season is no different and we are sure that that this promotion will make feel “Na Na Na Na Na.”

    Cobra Starship will be performing live during a Tommy Hilfiger fashion show on Thursday, February 16 at 6:30pm. The fashion and music runway spectacle will present Hilfiger’s Spring 2012 campaign featuring “The Hilfigers”— the fictional American family. (Apparently, Tommy’s real family apparently didn’t make the cut).

    Tickets are available now exclusively through American Express. Seats are being sold for $150 and $90 depending how close you want to be to the runway. There is also a $7 service fee and $3 facility fee. In addition to the fashion show, the package includes a cocktail party and $100 vouchers to be used in-store at select Tommy Hilfiger locations, which essentially defrays almost the entire cost of the event.

    Alternatively, you can go to fashion week without spending a penny by participate in our Fashion Week  contest. Just follow us on Twitter and send the following:

    By reading @MadisonAveSpy daily I found a great deal on [blank]. Follow and RT to win a chance to go to fashion week

    When you send us your favorite Mad-Spy deal you will become eligible to attend a fashion show and write a post for the site. The winners will be annoucned on Monday.

    Now sing with us: Na Na Na Na Na…

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    TJ Maxx Spring Bling

    By ManhattanMataHari

    It’s the start of the retail spring season, which means off-price retails have a fresh shipment of discounted designer loot. The timing couldn’t be better for those wanting to look great during fashion week without spending even a waif’s weight in gold.

    TJ Maxx stores have received a new shipment of designer goodies that are sure to hit the mark. While some items may be past season, there are lots of great basics from which to choose. We found a couple of Givenchy leather handbags priced between $700 to $1000, a Celine slouchy leather tote was $800, a classic black leather  Prada hobo was $1200 and a brown leather Dolce & Gabbana tote is $600. Jimmy Choo fans won’t want to miss the leather bags priced at $800.

    The Runway, TJ Maxx’s designer ready-to-wear section, is largely hit or miss. We spotted a great Versace white linen bustier dress for $500 and a back-plunging M Missoni number for $250. There are a variety of drapey Helmut Lang dresses now $79 to $150, as well as a cute embroidered Marc by Marc Jacobs strapless dress for $300.

    For a more polished look, pair the $80 bright pink Kate Spade shell under the $200 Valentino pinstripe blazer. Pull on a pair of skinny jeans and you’re set for a day of back-to-back shows.

    While it may be tempting to only shop the more organized Runway department, be sure to check out the separate clearance racks. TJ Maxx has taken their final markdown on lots of designer merchandise, which you can recognize by the lavender tags with yellow sale stickers. With a bit of determination you can find M Missoni and Versace pants for $44, Ralph Lauren Black Label separates for under $50, Opening Ceremony pants and blazers under $34, Armani Collezioni velvet jackets for $299 and Marc Jacobs jackets priced between $119 and $149.

    While it may take a bit of effort, even an intern can afford to look great during fashion week with these prices. If you’re shopping strategically, we suggest making starting at the TJ Maxx on West 57th Street, which stocks the store with the Hearst magazine editors in mind. Then check the TJ Maxx on Columbus and 99th Street, which is large enough to contain a separated Runway section.

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