Retail Therapy is an old Mad-Spy column where we ask fashion insiders for their shopping secrets. Years ago, we featured Eva Chen, Anna Sui, Lauren Sherman, and Norma Kamali. Today, we are bringing it back!
Penny (Pinar) Karabey started her career as a computer engineer. After several years working in IT, she realized that combining her love for fashion and her tech-savvy was a winning combination for success. Penny’s online store, Luxury Next Season, spotlights top fashion trends from around the world.
The best part is that LNS offers authentic merchandise that can’t usually be purchased online and sometimes you can even snag a discount. For example, LNS carries the very popular Dior Book Tote, the Fendi ‘Defender’ that hasn’t even hit stores, and discounted Gucci. While you’re at it, you might want to check out her Instagram. It’s become one of our favorites.
Below Penny shares her stories about her prized wardrobe items along with how she avoids the regret of leaving something behind. Read below to find the full scoop and let us know what you think. We would also love to hear your thoughts about resurrecting the column and who you would like to hear from next. You can click here to read through more of our old Retail Therapy interviews.
Your most prized “deal?”
I shop all over the world, I find the best items at local markets and small boutiques as well as from local artists. I hunt for unique and handmade pieces that nobody else will have. I tend to focus on finding fabulous accessories both for my outfits and for my homes.
Biggest regret that you didn’t purchase?
I try to live without regrets and this philosophy seeps into my style. If I fall in love with something, I buy it. I only buy pieces that truly speak to me, and if a piece speaks to me, it comes home with me. That being said, there was a pearl embroidered Fendi mink bomber jacket I fell in love with but I just couldn’t justify the price tag. After a few months, I was still thinking about it and I knew that soon it would be gone. I managed to track it down and I am so glad I did. I guess you could say I sometimes purchase to avoid regretting not getting something!
This season you’re looking for a great deal on what item?
This season I am craving all things purple! At the top of my wishlist is a fabulous purple coat. I have seen a few but am waiting for one that speaks to me. When I find it, it will become a staple for the season. I am also a bit obsessed with all things Fendi. It’s no secret I have a very special relationship with the brand and right now I am head over heels in love with their Peekaboo Defender cover, a piece of canvas that is placed over the iconic Peekaboo bag. It completely transforms its appearance and gives you the look of a brand new bag–but without the price tag. In fact, Luxury Next Season was one of the first retailers in the US to offer the Defender cover.
What’s your number one shopping tip?
I think the best tip I could give to other shoppers is to always be looking. One evening I was on my way to a gala and the most beautiful blue coat caught my eye in the window of a boutique. I knew I had to have it. So I stopped the car and ran inside to buy the coat. I showed up to the gala carrying a huge shopping bag. You never know when you will find something spectacular.
Is there an item for which you never mind paying full price?
I often pay full price, sometimes I pay above retail for things that I truly love. I am also a collector of many things, including Pomegranate related items. (They hold a very strong sentimental connection for me.) I often find things when I am traveling and I have to pay retail as well as pay to have them travel home to NYC. When it comes to paying retail, I find it makes the most sense to do so on a fabulous handbag. Handbags truly make an outfit. Right now I am obsessed with the Dior Book Tote (of which Luxury Next Season’s stocks a few varieties) it is both beautiful and practical.
