The New Black… Friday

Events · News & Views · Trends · November 18, 2008

Thanks to the crumbling economy and my dwindling bank account, I’ve restricted my clothing intake to mere window-shopping (oh what fun!). During one of my recent browsing-only excursions at Saks Fifth Avenue, I was dumbfounded upon discovering dozens of “Pre-Sale” racks filled with unsold discounted designer duds on the sales floor, something unheard of at the beginning of November! Sales of this magnitude typically don’t start until after Thanksgiving (a.k.a. Black Friday). This prompts the question: how are retailers responding to such quick and major shifts in consumer buyer behavior in times of such economic uncertainty and volatility?

Lucky for you, I recently attended the Fashion Group International’s seasonal Prêt-a-Porter event in New York, where I witnessed a panel of leading fashion influencers (Barneys’ Simon Doonan to Vogue’s Sally Singer) banter about a host of these related topics. I don’t know about you, but as an avid shopper, I’m dying to know what tricks retailers have up their sleeves for luring customers in during what’s arguably the most dismal holiday season since the Great Depression. So before you plan your next shopping jaunt, do yourself a favor and arm yourself with these newfangled retail strategies. Read more after the Jump!

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Haute Retail Happenings… In Harlem?!

Events · Store Openings · May 16, 2008

As a New York-based shopping editor, I’ve seen many cool retail concepts in my time. But the one I’m about to tell you about totally blew my mind. Frugal fashionistas, better get your flats and MetroCards ready!

Rather than head to the Lower East Side for my usual Saturday shopping sojourn, tomorrow I’ll be trekking north, thanks to the launch of Harlem’s Uptown Emerging Designers Market (UEDM). A hot new retail destination for cutting-edge wardrobe essentials, the UEDM is a bi-monthly market that will feature 50 of the country’s top emerging designers’ wares, including apparel, handbags, jewelry and décor.

Held at Harlem’s Hip Hop Culture Center, a massive gallery space, the UEDM will be previewing a plethora of mouth-watering merch at prices that won’t break the bank. Some designs I can’t wait to check out: Jamhuri Wear (funky African-inspired street wear), Mifflin Jewelry (a luxe bauble line with beautiful vintage details), Harriet’s Alter Ego (one-of-a-kind frocks for forward-thinking peeps), Denise Beckford (stylish safari blouses) and so many others.

If that wasn’t enticing enough, this high-energy buying extravaganza will also feature live DJ beats, complementary cocktails, swag bags and a Hip Hop History Exhibit, all of which will be held under one roof! Judging from the buzz surrounding the UEDM’s debut, you’d better show up at least 30 minutes before doors are scheduled to open. See you there!

The Retail Details!
What: Uptown Emerging Designers Market Launch!
When: Saturday, May 17th & Sunday, May 18th
Time: 11am-7pm
Where: Hip Hop Culture Center, Magic Johnson Theatre, 2nd Floor, 2309 Frederick Douglas Blvd., NYC
Website: uptownedm.com

Sally Tseng Trunkshow!

Events · May 7, 2008

If you happen to live in or around the NYC Metro area, here’s something you might wanna check out.

Sally Tseng, a Big Apple-based designer who’s known for her meticulously tailored and fashion-forward frocks, is throwing an exclusive trunkshow at Jirisuda (a hot NoLita boutique) tomorrow night.

Round-up your posse and head to Jirisuda to sip some bubbly, schmooze and of course, shop! Plus, you’ll receive a 10% discount on all Sally Tseng items purchased at the event.

Happy shopping!

The Retail Details!
What: Sally Tseng Trunkshow
Where: Jirisuda, 248 Elizabeth Street, NYC (btw Prince & Houston)
When: Thursday, May 8th
Time: 5-8pm
Phone: 212-941-1101
Website: sallytsengny.com

Over Under NYC: Runway Presentation Series

Events · March 19, 2008

If you live in Manhattan and don’t have plans this Thursday night, why not join me and other fellow fashionistas at Over Under – the first of many runway shows featuring the city’s hottest emerging fashion talent.

Picture a live version of Project Runway (sans the ‘tude) with instant access to industry insiders (tomorrow’s event is sponsored by The Fashion Mini and Fashion Week Daily) and under-the-radar designers such as Linda Loudermilk, Tara Jarmon (my personal fave), Nature vs. Future and Sinner Saint.

This cutting-edge concept was conceived by Jonathan Ressler, co-founder of Underground NYC – a new emerging designer marketplace and style venue in SoHo that you have to check out. 

Following tomorrow’s kick-off event, Over Under will continue to host regular monthly presentations showcasing newcomers in various categories including men’s and women’s designer and contemporary, swimwear, lingerie, eco-friendly and streetwear. Hope to see you there!

The Retail Details!
What: Over Under Runway Presentation Series
Where: Underground-NYC, 440 Broadway (btw Grand & Canal)
When: Thursday, March 20th, 2008
Time: 6:30pm
RSVP: overunder@5wpr.com
Website: underground-nyc.com

FashionJunkie’s New Editor Blog On LouLouMagazine.com

Events · November 16, 2007

Calling all web junkies! I’m proud to report that you can now read about my daily confessions and obsessions on the “new and improved” louloumagazine.com (the Canadian equivalent of Lucky magazine, but with a more European twist). Check out my very own Editor Blog for more of the same insider fashion and beauty buzz that you’ve come to know (and love!) on FashionJunkie.

Happy shopping!

xo
FashionJunkie