Coach Factory Store in Canada: No More Cross-Border Trips required

If you live close to the 49th parrallel, chances are you've made a run to the border. And not for Taco Bell, either. Everyone I know who shops outlet stores in the US comes back with something from Coach.

In recessionary times, Coach is one of the few boutiques where you can get an affordable, good quality handbag. Only problem is that you have to cross the border and pay customs on the way back, not to mention the fact that the exchange rate is not great for US shopping these days.

Well, wave goodbye to those scary border guards because there's a Coach Factory store in Niagara Falls. And yes, I mean Niagara Falls, Canada.

The outlet store has opened at the Canada One Outlets on Lundy's Lane.

Last time I went, I bought a leash for my puppy ($29). That price is even better than the no name leashes at the pet store across the street from my house.

The store gets packed because the prices are comparable to the US outlet prices but it's definitely worth the drive.

Canada One Factory Outlets are located at 7500 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls, ON L2H1G8

google map

Regular store hours are Monday - Saturday 10 am - 9 pm and Sunday & holidays 10 am - 6 pm

Happy shopping

Modern Furniture Sale: Motreal

All the furniture in Kinetic is amazing. The fact that a lot of it is on sale makes everything that much better.

Just check out the flyer for the gorgeous pieces.
Sale starts tomorrow and goes until Monday!

Cash, debit and all major credit cards are accepted.

1615 Louvain West, Suite 222, Montreal

Happy shopping!

This Week's Sample Sales: Vancouver

Ilovesamplesales.com has sent out their listing of Vancouver sample sales for the week.

Here are some of my favourites.

Now until May 3

10am-7pm

Designer Blowout Sale featuring DKNY, MEXX, Liz Clairborne and XOXO

814 W. 6^th Ave, Vancouver

May 2: 12-5 pm

May 4-May 9: 10 am-6pm

The Dakota Group sample sale features clothing, shoes, bags, accessories and more. Look for cool brands including Frankie B, Soia + Kyo, Soda Jeans, Dish Jeans, Jenny Han and many, many more.

179 West 6^th Street, Vancouver

April 30-May 2

10am-5:30pm

BrinkHaus Jewellers is holding their annual sale of up to 50% off. Discount is applicable to selected fine jewellery, diamonds, watches and more and includes Patek Phillippe, Rolex, Cartier and more. Any guys looking for engagement rings should definitely check this out

1018 West Georgia Street, Vancouver

Cash, debit and credit accepted

April 30-May 1

9am-5pm

Gary Gates Sales is holding a sample sale featuring Mexx Ladies, Kensie, KensieGirl, Mac&Jac and D.E.P.T.

Fashion Exchange Building, 1951 Glen Drive #273, Vancouver

Cash or cheque

This Week's Sample Sales: Toronto

April 30-May 212-8 pm

House of Spy is holding a sample sale beginning tomorrow. Their clothing ranges from cute to uber-sexy so there's something for everyone ... unless you're a size medium or large. Unfortunately, this is a "size small only" sale so if that fits you, make your way there. (I'll see you there)

Nothing is over $70 (including silk dresses)

April 30

10-6 pm

Canadian designer Jeanne Lottie is having a sample sale tomorrow only. Look for her signature shoes, accessories and handbags

32 Scollard Street (near Yonge & Bay sts)

Gash and all major credit cards accepted

Email Gillian@jeannelottie.com for RSVP

(Thanks to ilovesamplesales for this)

May 2, May 9, May 23, May 30

2-4 pm

Miss Rowe is a Canadian label definitely worth supporting. I love, love, love their leather pieces and if you're a fan of fashion forward designers Ric Owens or Helmut Lang, Miss Rowe is the next label you should be checking out.

Fortunately, this week you can do it at prices of up to 70% off.

Toronto Fashion Incubator: 285 Manitoba Dr., Studio 3

Debit and all major credit cards

(Thanks to ilovesamplesales for this)

Hautelook - Online Sales of Your Favourite Brands

Living in Canada, I was always envious when I heard about all the sample sales that happen in NYC or LA.

But now there's a website that offers some of those sample sales online, without all the cat fights and, best of all, there's shipping to Canada!

Hautelook is a private online sample sale that was started in December.

The site is by invitation only, but it offers exclusive brands at 50-75% discount. On top of that, you can earn a store credit of $10 when any of your sponsored guests make a purchase. Add to that the fact that there is a return policy and you really can't go wrong.

The site posts designer bios and each limited-time sale is counted down in real time until the item is sold out. Members also get e-mail alerts for upcoming sales.

Some recent sales have included Alice & Olivia, Mike & Chris and Ella Moss.

Tomorrow the site is hosting a Designer Blowout Sale with pieces by BCBG, DVF, Alice + Olivia, Robert Rodriguez (one of my faves) and more.

Get there quick because these sales sell out fast!

FCUK Yeah! One of My Favourite Stores is Having A Warehouse Sale!

Even if you're a label whore and prefer designer boutiques to mall chain stores, you still have to love FCUK. Every season I pick up a few pieces that last me well into the next year and I never fail to get complimented on them. I'm telling you, it never fails.

I love their stuff for both men and women so the fact that they're having their warehouse sale this weekend has got me pretty excited.


Where: 14 Advance Road,
Etobicoke, Ontario


When: April 29-May 2
Mon-Fri 10 am-7 pm
Sat-Sun 10 am- 6 pm

The Clothing Show Hits Toronto this coming weekend

If you've never been to The Clothing Show in Toronto, you don't know what you're missing.

The show, which happens twice a year will take place this weekend at the Better Living Centre at the CNE.

The show is Canada's largest vintage and new independent designer show. There are over 300 bootsh with a mix of cool clothing, accessories, sample sales and even new menswear and eco sections.

Prices can range from $5 to $2000 with some items at up to 90% retail while other, handmade exclusive items come with more exclusive price tags.

One of my favourite exhibitors is SOOS. Their jewelry is fantastic and worth every penny.

Admission to the show is $10 at the door or $8 online.

Happy shopping

InStyle Shopping Alerts - A Recessionista's Dream

We recessionistas love labels. Let's be honest. But as recessionistas, we also love sales. Well, InStyle has designed a handy tool just for us. It's a sales alert option that sends you an email any time one of your favourite designer objects has gone on sale.

Can you believe it. The post-holiday sales that came in to my inbox were unbelievable and although it's mid-season now, I still get some good deals every day. The only downside is that the sales are in the US, but many of the stores featured ship to Canada so when your alert comes, you can check the store's shipping department and hopefully you'll be in luck.

Just go to the InStyle shopping site, click on the brands you want to be notified about and you're set.

Just a warning that this can be a very dangerous tool. It may be hard to ignore Marc Jacobs on sale ... I'm just saying!

Happy shopping!

The Canadian Recessionista hits Fashionably Yours

A couple of days ago, I dropped by a new consignment store in Toronto. Fashionably Yours is the brainchild of Janet Han, a fashionista in her own right, so you know it carries some great items.

During my visit I spotted a Marc Jacobs wallet, a sexy Roberto Cavalli evening dress, some Coach purses and a wide range of sunglasses. There were also some amazingly cute shift dresses, but considering that I have been buying nothing but dresses recently, I opted instead for a purple and gold striped see-through shirt. It was only $10 and I'll be wearing it over a tank and with some jeans as soon as this weather decides to stay warm.

You can also drop off items in your closet that you no longer wear and make some money. I am actually thinking of cleaning out my shoe closet and maybe the spare bedroom closet so another trip to Fashionably Yours may be coming soon.

If you want to sell some items, check out their website for info on what they're looking for (in-season items, clean, etc.) or email them to book an appointment at sell@fashionablyyours.ca.

Happy shopping ... and selling!

Fashionably Yours is located 632 Queen St. W. (just west of Batthurst) in Toronto

Phone: 647-802-9687

I Love Sample Sales

I had a great emaile this morning from one of the great people behind Ilovesamplesales.com. I'm so excited that she's reading my blog.

Ilovesamplesales.com is a great source for checking out all the sample sales in your area and you can also subscribe for emails particular to Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary or Montreal.

It's been a great source for some of the sample sales that I've been including this blog but there are even more on Ilovesamplesales.com.

Check it out if you get a chance!


Happy shopping!

Aldo: Up to 80% off Coupon

Just click this link and enter the code 5489548.

Happy shopping!

Weekend Sample Sales: Toronto

There are four great sample sales to check out in Toronto over the next few days.


The first is the Allyssa Agency sale. Great Canadian brands including Fidelity and Brave Beltworks (both are favourites) at more than 50% off!

Also make a trip to the Diesel sample sale, which includes apparel, denim, accessories and more for adults as well as kids!

Another great sale features some of the top denim lines around at 50 - 65% off!

Finally, check out the Boloten Agency Sample sale for discounts on various luxury brands!

Happy shopping

Weekend Sample Sales: Vancouver

Marilyn's of West Vancouver Warehouse Sale
Men's & women's clothing, accessories, shoes, etc.
Brands: William Rast, T. Bags, Free People, Nicole Miller, Betsey Johnson, Andy the Anh, etc.
50-80% off + an additional 20% off on Saturday
Address: 1633 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver (Grouse Inn)

Outnet Flash Sale - Spring Dresses

Our favourite online sale site is holding a "flash sale" on spring dresses tomorrow beginning at noon.
The sale will go on for 72 hours and dresses will be up to 80% off . Needless to say, I will not be posting anything tomorrow at noon because I will be busy shopping!

Happy shopping!

Holts Sale!

Holts is having a sale this weekend. It's a great excuse to check out their new lines, including Nicole Ritchies new jewellery line "House of Harlow" that debuted this week.

I bought a gorgeous ring that I LOVE! And at $55, it is totally worth it!
Let me know if you get any deals there this weekend!


Happy shopping!

I HEART Matthew Williamson

Yes, I got up extra early and waited in line for 2 hours (although those at the front were there at least for 3).
I bought the pink silk-mix dress, both the gorgeous studded belts and the peacock / purple top.
It's been a while since I've been to an exclusive sale and let me just tell you that the game has stepped up.
I remember the days when people would hoard everything when they first got in and then once they decided what they wanted, they would let everything else go.
Not anymore.
Now, whatever people didn't want, they would hold on to in hopes of trading for something better. Sale castoffs have now become collateral. I couldn't believe it. I felt so bad for the people who came in the door five minutes after me to find nothing on the rack - and no cast offs to trade for something better.

For those of you who didn't make the sale, the items are sold out except for what's left on the mannequin windows. I have it on good authority that the store clerks will be stripping the mannequins on Monday at 10 but it's first come, first serve, and there's only 1 of everything so if you're still coveting some MW, then be there early.

Or, thanks to crafty buyers, many of the items are already for sale on Craigslist and eBay so if you don't mind paying a few extra dollars for some great designer pieces, you can always go there.

As for me, I'm going to start planning tomorrow's wardrobe to include my beautiful, beautiful new black leather studded belt!

Happy shopping!

Roots Customer Appreciation Days: 25% off!

If you haven't been to Roots lately, you've probably forgotten that they're great for quality leather goods. Here's your reason to visit them again!
Happy shopping!

Banana Republic: 30% off coupon

Here's another gift from one recessionista to another!

Happy shopping!

1 More Sleep: Matthew Williamson for H&M

It's finally here and I can't contain myself.
I've already set the alarm to get up extra early. Stores will open at 10 but I will definitely be lining up long before that.
There are some gorgeous pieces I'll be grabbing and the prices are fairly reasonable. Look below for pieces from the collection or go to hm.com/ca to see the whole thing.

The collection will only be available at 4 stores in Canada:
Pacific Centre, Vancouver
15 Bloor St. W., Toronto
Toronto Eaton Centre, Toronto
1100 St. Catherine St. W, Montreal


Leather jacket $249.00 / Silk dress $349.00

Silk mix dress $149.00 / Leather belt $59.90

Sequin dress $249.00 / Leather belt $59.90

Silk mix blazer $149.00 / Silk mix trousers $99.90 / Silk top $69.90

Silk jumpsuit $249.00 / Necklace $29.90

Dress $99.90

If you aren't able to get to H&M tomorrow, check back in the coming weeks. Lots of people buy extras in hopes of selling them on eBay and end up returning them if they can't sell them.

On the other hand, if you don't live near one of the participating H&Ms, check out eBay or Craigslist and you may be able to pick up a piece there. The prices for the items will be hefty on the first couple of days, but prices do sometimes go down after the first week if there is more supply than demand.

Happy shopping. I'll see you there!

Old Navy Coupon

Old Navy is a great place to grab some basics or layering pieces to mix and match with your Gucci and Prada.
Enjoy! With our compliments!

Toronto Clothing Swap

Clothing swaps are huge in London, L.A. and New York and now they're coming to Toronto.

Stylehog has organized it's first ever Style Swap - a one-night event where Toronto recessionistas can exchange pieces from their wardrobes.

You just bring a maximum of 4 clean pieces (clothing, shoes, accessories, etc.) that you no longer wear and swap them with someone else's.

The only requirement is that the items you bring are still fashionable and clean.

The StyleSwap happens tomorrow night: April 16

7-10 p.m. (doors close at 8)

The Burroughes Building

(639 Queen St. W., Toronto)

$10 cover charge

If you happen to drop by, write in and tell me what you scored!

Happy Shopping!

New Online Designer Discount Site: theOutnet

I am happier than a chocoholic at Easter.

The prestigious bud sadly expensive Net-a-Porter site has just opened it's online discount site today!!!

Like it's big sister, TheOutnet.com features top designers but at discounts up to 80% off. There are also weekly promotions and giveaways. Best of all, they ship to Canada. The Gods are smiling!

I went on the site this morning and found a gorgeous pair of Alexander McQueen sandals at 80% off for only $321. I'm also coveting a sexy D&G satin bustier dress at 50% for only $262. And if you're looking for more day wear, there's a cute Marc by Marc Jacobs logo print dress for only $125.

There's too many items to mention and they're replenished every Tuesday and Thursday so click on the link and ... Happy Shopping!

Shoe-aholics Take Note: Another Sale

Sorry all,

I've been a bit busy this week but I wanted to let you know about another sample sale happening in Toronto.

Yes, it's all SHOES - but who doesn't love shoes?

The catch? If you wear bigger size shoes you may not find as big a selection, but the flyer does promise that the sizes do range from 5-12 for women.

Happy shopping!

Alfred Sung for the Recessionista

I love this!!! LOVE IT!

Who doesn't love Alfred Sung. He brought us Club Monaco, Caban and so much more and let's face it, his sense of style is incredible.

So now that he has clothing designs at Zellers, don't believe for a minute that I won't be heading there on my way home from work.

The line premiered yesterday at Zellers so get there quick before it all runs out.

Tops are in the low $20s and skirts are in the mid $20s. Nothing is over $40. How can you go wrong.

Um ... you can't!

Need a New Pair of Glasses?

Josephson Opticians is holding a sale of up to 50% on over 800 pairs of sunglasses.

I do have to say that the last time they had this sale, I bought a pair of Gucci oversized sunglasses for under $100.


I know, I couldn't believe it either.


Check out their website for a location near you!

More Sample Sales: Montreal