We mentioned that we were going to take our shopping prowess on the road and today we went through a tunnel and over a bridge to get to Brooklyn. Instead of hitting the obvious fashionista choices we decided to track down fashion that’s a bit smaller and harder to come by in Manhattan: Discounted kids clothing!

Diva, is buried amongst discount stores like Amazing Savings and Family Dollar, but is one of the most upscale children’s stores we’ve ever seen. Diva carries brands like Simonetta, Il Gufo, Sonia Rykiel and Val Max at a fraction of Manhattan boutique prices. Those brands are like the Chanel, Valentino and Lanvin of kid’s wear. And the prices aren’t much less considering a child can wear an outfit for two years, at most.

In order to make room for the cruise collection, Diva is hosting a sale with markdowns ranging 50% t0 70% off their already discounted prices. A $800 Il Gufo wool coat was reduced to under $200 and a matching cashmere sweater and skirt set was $115 from $475. A Val Max cashmere and sequined skirt ensemble was $85 from $500. Try to find that at Spring Flowers or Magic Windows.

We know you can find dribs and drabs of these brands throughout the city, but this is the only store with full collections and discounts that can’t be beat. Sizes and styles are starting to run thin but kid’s clothing is not as trend obsessed as adult fashion. So thinking a year or two ahead is never a fashion faux pas.

Diva
1409 Avenue M
718-645-9797

We started hunting for great shoe deals as we patiently wait for the Manolo Blahnik boutique to start their second… and third markdowns. It took some time but we think we hit a winner.

The downtown discount store, Gabay’s Outlet, recently received a healthy shipment of Manolo boots and sandals. Get this, prices are all at least 65% off. We found one of the most important winter wardrobe essentials: The simple tall boot. Colors vary from basic black, to brown, to a rich cognac. With prices this good we figured it was safe to take all three.

You can click here to see a small photo gallery of available Manolo styles. While you’re there, don’t overlook the amazing Balmain bags. We found a basic black Balmain satchel, a rhinestone messenger bag and an evening clutch all for about 60% off retail. Here are pictures.

We suggest you hit the store over the weekend because these beauties will not last. There’s nothing worse than having to say, I told you so.

Gabay’s Outlet
225 First Avenue (between 13th and 14th)
212-254-3180
contactus@gabaysoutlet.com

Manolo Blahnik started their first markdown today. Shoes and boots from their winter collection are now discounted to 33% off. This markdown should not cause too much excitement considering that department stores are running sales where Manolos are 60% off.

In three weeks you can expect the discount to drop to 50% off and by early February the discount climbs to 75% off. You know, that’s when we come running.

Manolo Blahnik
31 West 54th Street (b/w 5th and 6th)
Monday to Friday 10:30 to 6:00
Saturday 10:30 to 3:300
Contact: Abby 212-582-3007