sale

GAPCSAVE? Don’t Mind if I Do!

January 14, 2014 By Lena

There are a handful of times during the year that I shop at GAP… when they offer savings like this.

As you probably know, I like to shop at season’s end for next year’s clothing, especially for my boys. This morning, I made off like a bandit for little Reid who will be starting kindergarten in the fall. In the end, my online shopping cart – filled to the brim with 16 items… totaled under $100 before taxes. Did I mention that a winter coat – normally retailing for $70.00 – was in that cart? Hell yeah.

I had my eye on the “Warmest Puffer Camo” for Ryder this year, but at $70.00, I flat-out refused to buy it. And regardless of what my husband will say, I’m not being cheap – I’m being realistic. Why on earth would I spend $70.00 on a coat he’d wear for one season?

However, using GAPCSAVE to score 50% off $55.99, Reid is the new owner of the coveted camo puffer at a price Mommy can live with – $27.99. YES, under $30 for a quality, water repellent, fleece-lined, down filled winter coat.

(I would’ve purchased one for Ryder too, but my big boy is on his last days of size 5T… he’s moving into boys’ sizes! Why do they grow up so quickly?)

If you’re looking to score some deals of your own, pop on over to www.gapcanada.ca before 11:59pm on January 15th. The women’s sale section is well stocked with gorgeous sweaters, and baby girl’s? OMG. Cuteness overload.

All the Highlights: Old Navy Family Day Festival

March 4, 2013 By Lena

If you missed the Old Navy Family Day Festival in Toronto on February 18th, BOO to you! An amazing time was had by all, and I daresay it was the most fun festival yet!

I was anxiously waiting on pictures from the event to share the experience with y’all, but Bunch Family did one better – they sent this awesome little video. You’ll see that I quickly introduce the event, and then it’s all family fun and games from there on in (and, of course, a little bit of shopping! The deals were crazy that day).

My two little munchkins make an appearance at 0:24 (Ryder) and 1:17 (Reid). And after watching this video, I FULLY expect that my readers in the GTA will put the Old Navy Family Festival in their calendars for 2014! Too much fun!

Come One, Come All: Old Navy Family Day!

February 14, 2013 By Lena

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area and are currently scratching your head over your options for Family Day – boy, do I have a solution for you.

Come join me – I’ll be hosting Old Navy’s Family Day Festival: a FREE wild and crazy party for families to celebrate Family Day from 1-4 pm!

This is the second year for the Family Day event, and if it’s anything like last year’s party, you will not be disappointed. Come on down to the Old Navy Etobicoke location – just minutes from downtown Toronto, the store is across from Sherway Gardens and offers free parking. Once inside the party, the whole family will enjoy:

3 Craft Stations
Cookie and Juice Bar
Twister-style Dance Floor where kids can show off their dance moves!
One-on-one wardrobe consultation with a stylist
A gift with purchase while supplies last

Plus – a coupon for $10 off when you spend $50 or more! So, if you haven’t yet stocked up on some Kidtacular clothes during the Kids & Baby Sale, here’s a perfect time to SAVE EVEN MORE.

Hmm… great shopping for you, tons of activities for the kids, a gift with purchase and further discount… all in a family friendly, incredibly fun environment? Yes please!

If you do join us, be sure to come find me and say hello. I’d love to meet you! I’ll be the gal walking around and chatting with everyone… while putting clothes aside for the boys, and trying on some of Old Navy’s fabulous new lightweight patterned shirts. Hey, it IS a shopping event!…

Buy Your UGG Boots Now.

February 5, 2013 By Lena

I suppose I could have come up with a catchier title – but, you know how I hate to mince words. So here’s the scoop: it’s no secret that I love MTF Price Matters. However, just in case you need a refresher course, read on:

1. Don’t be scared away by the great prices – all of the merchandise at MTF Price Matters is 100% authentic. They simply do not do knock-offs. So you can take the low prices at face value – they’re awesome deals, plain and simple!

2. Their customer service is ridiculously good. Don’t be afraid to give them a shout with questions, concerns or feedback (EST customers keep in mind they’re located in BC – so mind the time difference).

3. If you happen to live out west, check out their Pay N’ Pick Up service – you can save on shipping by picking up your purchases at any one of their twelve (12) locations. They ship anywhere in North America – US customers, welcome!

4. Inventory is constantly being updated – so check back often.

Here’s the ~~good~~ ~~awesome~~ euphoric part.

They just received a limited shipment of UGG boots. We’re talking Tularosa, Selia, Shanleigh, Classic Short styles and more. And, since they know how much I love a good boot – and how much I love sharing deals with readers – they’ve shared the following discount with me:

Enter code 25OFFUGGS at checkout, and you’ll receive a further 25% off the discounted price plus free shipping! NOBODY knows about this discount except Listen to Lena readers – so run! You’ll be the first grab your UGGs at an insanely awesome price! Here’s just some the savings:

UGG Selia Boots
Retail: $220.00
Price Matters Price: $183.99
After L2L Discount: $137.99
Total Savings: $82.01

UGG Classic Short
Retail: $225.00
Price Matters Price: $135.99
After L2L Discount: $101.99
Total Savings: $123.01

UGG Mini Bailey Button
Retail: $225.00
Price Matters Price: $99.99
After L2L Discount: $74.99
Total Savings: $150.01

Sizes and colours are limited so shop soon! Remember – code 25OFFUGGS takes an additional 25% off the already awesome price and if you live in Canada, you’ll score free shipping too. Now what are you waiting for?

Click here to shop at MTF Price Matters. You’re welcome!

T is for Treat. Oh, and for Tory Burch too.

January 2, 2013 By Lena

As we start 2013 off with a bang, here’s something you should know about me.

I rarely treat myself.

It’s true. I am quite honestly the most fuss-free, no-frills person I know. I do at-home pedicures. I wear glasses 99% of the time. I often splurge on discounted toilet paper – but rarely discounted Dior. I clip coupons, make sure my boys want for nothing and try to find the best brands at the best price every day. Now I know you may be shaking your head, thinking “So what? Me too…” – you must realize, I am a recovering Shopaholic. As in, I once owned 12 Coach purses and didn’t think twice about dropping $398 for jeans.

(Also in my Shopaholic Hall of Fame? 4 brand new cars in 10 years, hundreds of CDs, a $900 leather coat, two Movado watches… OMG. This really should be a Wall of Shame. How I wish I could have that money back! I’d invest it tidily in a tax-free savings account. Yes, I have turned into my father.)

So this whole turnaround in character – from spender to saver – is relatively new to me, but trust me, I’m not complaining. This past year alone, I paid off all my short term debts and put a healthy amount in savings – while sending my son to private school and taking the boys on 3 epic vacations. So, obviously I’m doing something right. High five to me!

But, for quality products where there is simply no substitution… I crave.

See, I’m not one for knockoffs. I just don’t do designer dupes. So if I see an item that I simply must have, I do the following:

1) Tell all my friends about it. Seriously, I’ll call them, tweet them, e-mail them links… all while trying to justify the retail price and gushing about why I love the item so much. Ask my bestie Victoria how many times I did the math with her… or Tammi, yup, I tweeted her like crazy… and Robin? She probably has tension headaches over the amount of times I talked about my latest crush.

2) Begin stalking the designer’s website for sales, promo codes, anything that can save me a few bucks. I will Google the sh*t out of that item until I know exactly who sells it, and for how much. And, I’ll know how much cross-border shipping is, USD to CAD discrepancies, etc etc. Then, I’ll repeat #1.

3) When all else fails, wait for an epic sale like Black Friday or Boxing Day… and pray that they still have my size in stock. And if they don’t, bow my head for a moment of silence, knowing I missed out because I’m too ~~cheap~~ smart to pay full price.

Such is the case with the Tory Burch Amanda Riding Boot. I can’t tell you how long I’ve coveted them! Slim through the calf and the absolute perfect shaft height, I knew they would complete my entire winter and spring wardrobe.

Our must-have riding boot. If you loved the fit of our popular Selma boot last fall, meet Amanda. An exclusive style, the Amanda Riding Boot comes in tumbled leather with strap details and ankle logo hardware. It’s a wardrobe staple that’s in line with the perennially classic equestrian look. Tumbled leather upper. Side zip closure. Metal logo ornament at side. Leather lining. Padded insole. Round toe.

The one thing holding me back? The $525 CAD price tag. I couldn’t – no matter how I tried – justify spending close to $600 after taxes on a pair of boots. Gah! My dream of riding boot perfection was not meant to be.

But then… like magic… the clouds parted and a ray of heaven shined down on them… by way of a Boxing Week promotion.

So after 6 months of waiting, countless page visits and in-store stalking extravaganzas… the boots were marked down to $385. Plus an EXTRA 25% off sale items. And, they had my size.

Just like that, I treated myself in 2012. And in case you’re wondering, they go very well with my other favourite purchase of 2012. I have a feeling that 2013 will be a fashionably fabulous year!

Please Target Canada, Make it Good

December 29, 2012 By Lena

The year is just about over, and most of my friends and peers are busy looking back, reminiscing about the days past. I too enjoy thinking about how awesome 2012 has been, but for the most part, I’m too preoccupied looking forward to 2013. It is going to be epic. I’ve got press trips booked; spokesperson contracts signed, and oh… that’s right… TARGET IS COMING TO CANADA!

Now I know so many people are excited about the giant retailer making its way north of the border, but lately, my jubilation has been reigned in just slightly. You see, I have a fervent wish – a prayer, if you will. And that is: Please Target Canada, Make it Good.

For we know what happens when other US chains make their way into Canada. The prices are higher, the selection is lower, and we often receive a “light” version of what is currently retailing in the States.

Walmart Light. Crate and Barrel Light. And we definitely have Marshall’s Light.

Trust me, Americans have it GOOD. Way too good – in fact, there’s no reason why every US Citizen shouldn’t be an authentic fashionista. Just look at the brands – and prices – currently available at www.target.com:

Do not adjust your monitor. You are actually seeing Brian Atwood leather gloves for less than $25. And a Tory Burch lunch box? If I actually took a lunch to work this would be a necessity. (There’s a matching insulated water bottle available as well. Sigh.) Most of the Target + Neiman Marcus collection’s goodies have rave reviews on the site – further proof that the collaboration does not sacrifice quality at the lower price point….

GAP Factory Store: What a Haul!

August 31, 2012 By Lena

Warning: Please do not attempt to duplicate this haul at home. It’s pretty much a grab of epic, “Start the car!” proportions. However, if you would like to try your hand at the savings, here’s what you need to do:

1. Find a copy of In Touch Magazine. Lately, around the 8-10th page, they’ve been including coupons for an additional 20% off your $75 purchase at GAP Factory Store. BONUS: the coupon is valid in both the US and Canada – so awesome.

2. Cross the border and visit a GAP Factory Store in the US, preferably when they’re offering an additional 30-40% selected items. Yes, I know I just stipulated that you can use the coupon in Canada, but c’mon, we all know that we Canadians are treated most unfairly when it comes to pricing. Hence, a sale/coupon combo in Canada is rarely the same dealio as in the States.

3. Have a child that you can load up on clearance clothes in one size bigger. After all, what good is an end-of-season sale if you can’t stock up for the next season?

4. Patience, my shopping Jedi-in-training. You’ll need about 20 minutes to sort through a messy clearance rack to uncover the best deals for the cutest clothes. Remember the first rule of clearance cruising: grab now, sort later – especially if you come across anything with Star Wars or a licensed character.

So, if you’re following me, here’s the math: GAP Factory Store Sale + An Additional 30-40% Selected Items + An Additional 20% Coupon = Something Like This:

Now here’s where I usually rub my hands together in glee, and try to explain to my husband just how awesome I am… but he’s not really interested because he wants to go to the food court to grab a slice of pizza. So, I thought I’d save my excitement and share the deets with people whom I know will appreciate it:

Total Cost Before Discounts: $224.88
Total Cost After Discounts: $58.26
Total Savings…. 74%!!!

Wooo hooo! I’ve pretty much got Ryder’s summer tees all stocked up for next summer, at 1/4 of the price I would have paid had I shopped at regular price, plus a few extras for this fall. And THAT is what I call a HAUL!

SHOP.CA: Boathouse on Sale!

August 23, 2012 By Lena

Could this be more perfectly timed?

With back to school just a few days away, SHOP.CA has a sweet deal for you: 25% off everything at Boathouse from now through Saturday!

(Well, almost everything. TOMS isn’t joining the party this time ’round.)

With over 1,000 items to choose from, it’s a cinch to find great pieces for the coming season. Plus, as always, you can enjoy FREE shipping and returns… and if you’re a first-time customer, you’ll earn $10 in rewards on your purchase of $25 or more. So what, you’re still reading? You should be shopping!

If you need some inspiration, here are a few of my personal faves:

…

GTA: Urban Barn Clearance Outlet Haul

March 5, 2012 By Lena

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) you’re in luck – serious style can be yours at seriously amazing prices. Yes, I’m writing about Urban Barn again, but I love the stuff, k?

Last week, I popped into the Urban Barn clearance outlet in Scarborough (430 Progress Avenue). We don’t usually venture out east, but we had about a million errands to run that spanned the entire city, so decided to pop in for a quick look.

Two words: SHOPPING MECCA.

The clearance outlet is advertised as “Massive Savings… Small Imperfections” – but in addition to slightly damaged merchandise, you can also grab absolutely perfect stock that has been moved from their regular stores for final clearance at the outlet.

At the store, we did see a few drool-worthy pieces that had a small nick or two, but I just couldn’t live with the imperfections :( Alas, I’m the type of person who would rather spend full price and then go over the merchandise with a fine-toothed comb to make sure it’s flawless (yes, I’m one of THOSE customers).

Anyhoo, I’m happy to say that I scored a few items at ridiculously low prices. First, while I wasn’t necessarily looking for a new duvet set, I couldn’t resist this simple, modern pattern called “LAUREN”.

REGULAR PRICE: $190 for King Set
AFTER MARKDOWNS: $27.99
SAVINGS: 85%

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Urban Barn: Transform Your Walls (25% off Wall Art)

February 23, 2012 By Lena

There are many things in life that make me happy. An Urban Barn sale generally hovers near the top of that list.

For a limited time, Save 25% off ALL Wall Art. My picks:

City in Motion
Price: $229.00
Dimensions: 70.5″W x 35.5″H
Hand painted
Stretched canvas over wood bars

Spotted in: My master bedroom

California Collage
NOW $89.99 (Was $179.00)
Dimensions: 59″W x 29.5″H
Stretched canvas over wood bars

Spotted in: My informal dining room

Wallflower Set of 25
Price: $25.00
Available in black, white or chrome
Sold as a set of 25

Spotted in: My master ensuite

Click here to view all products on promotion. So, “wall” are you waiting for?

#OldNavyFamilyDay: Now THAT was a Party!

February 22, 2012 By Lena

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it before: Old Navy knows how to throw a party, y’all.

(Insert any track from “Dance Hits 2000” here.)

If you happened to catch one of their #OldNavyFamilyDay celebrations on Monday, you’ll agree with me all the way. From the Crazy Cookie Bar to the Accessory Creation Stations (which were a HUGE hit with all the kiddos – standing room only!!) the entire store was packed with families, shoppers and little ones busting a move on the Funky Floor. Here’s Reid showing the party people how low he can go (very low, from the looks of it). You’ll also notice big brother Ryder in yellow, standing around trying to look cool. #nicetry

Other photos from the event, courtesy of the über talented Racheal McCaig:

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Danier: Oh Happy Day!

January 26, 2012 By Lena

Don’t even think of looking at these pictures if you haven’t read my “Danier: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait” post. It is necessary to completely understand my yearning before you can fully appreciate my jubilation.

Et voila! I received a most anticipated phone call this afternoon: my Danier coat was in! Price tag: a cool $249, down from $699 (that’s a savings of $450, or 65% off! #squee). I couldn’t wait to try it on and persuaded Melissa, the very lovely Danier associate at Erin Mills Town Centre, to take a few quick pics.

Apologies in advance for the lack of makeup (shopping on a Wednesday night), UGGs (again, shopping on a Wednesday night) and RoboCop pose (I was trying to highlight the detailing on the arms).

Verdict: Best purchase of 2012. Maybe ever.

Oodles of thanks to Beata and her entire team at Erin Mills Danier – especially Melissa. Not only did she handle my frantic request for a transfer with professionalism and grace, but when I arrived at the store – even though her shift was over – Melissa stayed to help me try on the coat, chat with me about how awesome it is (this alone took about 17 minutes) and complete the sale. LOVE LOVE LOVE my new winter coat!

Danier: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

January 18, 2012 By Lena

A few months ago, much to my chagrin, I found myself in Danier.

Now don’t get me wrong; it’s not that I dislike the store or merchandise, or frankly, have somewhere else I’d rather shop. The problem – ergo, the basis of my chagrin – lies in the fact that when I do visit Danier, I tend to want a lot of stuff.

Jackets.
Accessories.
Blazers.
Handbags.
Skirts.
Gloves.

Oh my!

On this particular visit, I found myself staring straight ahead in a concerted effort to avoid eye contact with a certain to-die-for leather jacket. Must.not.try.it.on.

Unfortunately, I ended up with an eyeful of the most gorgeous winter-lined coat I had ever laid eyes on.

“With its statement double fox fur collar (!!) and smocked detailing, this lightweight techno fabric coat screams ‘gotta-have-it’. Winter lining insulation, a hidden zippered placket and zippered pockets are practical touches. Wear it over a soft jersey maxi skirt or slim leggings depending on your mood.”

Against my better judgement, I tried it on. And it was love at first sight.

Was it the smocked detailing I fell in love with? The slim, tapered fit? Or was it the very fetching fox fur collar? (Don’t tell PETA. I swear, swear this is the only time I would consider wearing fur. I swear.) Regardless, I felt like a million bucks in it. I HAD to have it!

Of course, priced at $699, I had to put it back. After calculating that the coat would actually cost closer to $800 ($791 with tax), I just knew that there was no room in the budget for a garment at that price tag.

However, knowing that Danier is VERY good at placing items on sale, I waited.

Tick tock tick tock….

Read More

Buy it Now: Sephora Ultra Shine Mini Lip Gloss Set

December 29, 2011 By Lena

Before the holidays, I had the enviable opportunity to check out some of the hottest products from Sephora’s Holiday 2011 Collection. Besides the Sephora by OPI Holiday Mini Blockbuster Set, which I labelled my most favourite stocking stuffer of the season, I also was able to get my hands on:

Sephora Color Wand for Lips
Sephora Collector’s Edition I.T. Brush Set
NARS Danmari All About Cheeks Palette
… and more.

I’ll try to squeeze in a few reviews before long – especially the NARS palette (heaven!!!) – but for the moment, I want you to run to your nearest Sephora for the Ultra Shine Mini Lip Gloss Set. A $67 value, it’s on sale for just $11.00! (Online; in-store $17)

So why exactly do I love this set? Simply put, it marries the best of sparkle, shine and moisturizing goodness, all in convenient, easy to tote packaging. Think of it as “lip balm meets dazzle gloss”.

And while the set is obviously suited to holiday soirees, I can easily picture myself wearing these shades all year round, especially since I tend to prefer shiny puckers over matte or creme shades (sooo boring).

Here’s what you need to know:
This collection of mini lip glosses (four of which are only available in this set) makes lips shiny, moist, and soft. Its range of gloss effects includes multi-holigraphic shimmer, sheer high-shine, smooth shimmer, and creamy comfort….

Old Navy Canada: Baby Sale!

September 11, 2011 By Lena

It’s one of my hap-happiest times of the year!

Since my kids aren’t of school age just yet (one more year for Ryder – eek! Where did the time fly?) I generally look forward to the Old Navy Baby Sale, which happens every year around this time. And from now until September 22nd, the mad savings are back!

Step 1: Visit Old Navy in-store or online and enjoy savings on EVERY item (average discount 30%), from sizes Newborn – 5T.

Step 2: If shopping in-store, be sure to visit Old Navy’s FB Fan Page first and print out your coupon for an additional 30% off one item (excludes clearance, gift cards and jewelry – BUT you can use it on non-clearance items in the baby sale, which covers just about everything). Valid until September 22nd. The coupon code is universal so you may want to print two and ask the cashier to separate the transactions: I do it all the time and it works like a charm.

Step 3: If you decide to shop online and have yet to sign up to receive ON news (or have an extra e-mail address you can throw in there… shhh… I won’t tell) you’ll instantly receive a coupon for $10 off your purchase of $50 or more (which equals 20% off your entire purchase if you only spend $50). A bonus? You’ll score FREE shipping.

I’m off to rummage through Ryder’s fall/winter stash to see what he needs for the upcoming season. Poor Reid is always good to go with big brother’s hand-me-downs; perhaps I’ll grab him a few new threads in the sale as well. He deserves it!

Click here to shop at Old Navy Canada.

Fab Fashion Finds at Simons.ca!

June 20, 2011 By Lena

If you love Simons as much as I do – but can’t make the trip to Montreal – Simons.ca offers FREE shipping on all orders over $50, and $10 flat shipping on orders short of the mark. Of course, the website inventory is only a fraction of what is available in-store, but there are still TONS of hot looks at even hotter prices!

This week, they’ve got so many fab items on sale – here are my quick picks:

About 30% of the online store is on sale, so take a looksee! They’ve also got some sweet styles for bedroom, kitchen and bath.

Click here to shop at Simons.ca.

Fun & Fabulous Things at eBeauty.ca!

June 3, 2011 By Lena

With my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide coming up next month, I’ve got beauty on the brain! I literally seem incapable of thinking about anything else at the moment. Must… wrap up… Reno-cation…

(Worry not, I’ve still got more great giveaways to come!)

Anyhoo, I received a note from eBeauty.ca (Canada’s NEW online beauty shop!) with a heads up on some cool promos for June, and wanted to share! Some of my fave deals:

– stila at up to 30% off. A bunch of their best selling collections are on sale for the entire month. LOVE the stila 24kt Luxe Gold Lip Gloss Collection… would look great with bronzed skin (cue Don Henley’s “Days of Summer”).

– Ardell at 25% off. I’ve never quite gotten around to expertly applying falsies, but word on the street is that Ardell lashes are pretty awesome and affordable.

– Kiss Nail Products at 25% off. Perfect when you need a mani in a hurry! And yes, I’m in my 30’s, but I can’t resist their Rhinestone Accents, especially on my toes.

(Very reminiscent of my clubbing days… and Ryder says “Mommy had sparklies on her toesies.”)

Did I mention that shipping is FREE on all orders over $25? Plus, eBeauty.ca has got you covered during the current uncertainty with Canada Post:

“As many of you have surely heard, Canada Post workers have announced rotating strike activities across the country beginning Friday, June 3rd. Like always, we at eBeauty.ca want to ensure you that our focus remains on our amazing customers at all times! That is why you will have the option to have any items purchased from eBeauty.ca shipped via courier.

And guess what? The upgrade is on us! Yes, you read that right! Simply choose “Courier Ground” during your checkout and we will ensure you receive upgraded courier service for the same price as you would pay for standard shipping via Canada Post!”

WOW. It makes me smile to see when a company goes that extra mile for their customers. Kudos, eBeauty.ca!

Hmm… I’m not completely sure I want to share this with y’all, seeing that it will impact my chances of winning, but you should know that eBeauty.ca has a sweet contest happening until June 16th: Win a Trip for Two to New York City, or 1 of 10 beauty gifts! The prize includes airfare for two, four nights at the W hotel and $500 spending money. The contest runs until June 16th; one entry per day.

Now you KNOW my obsession with the W Hotel, so you can bet I’ll be entering every day. And if one lucky reader should win – I make a FABULOUS shopping buddy!

You can find many of my favourite brands on eBeauty.ca, including CARGO, Vasanti, Balmshell, Cover FX, stila, Too Faced and more. Plus, don’t forget to check out their other sections, including Skin Care, Bath & Body, Hair, Fragrance, Tools, Men and Gifts.

Click here to shop at eBeauty.ca.