Happy Halloween!

A redeeming mid-day dash

I have complained recently about the lack of wearability with items that have been on Neiman Marcus' Mid-day Dashes. Well I believe they have (slightly) redeemed themselves by posting items that people actually need and use. After all, I can only have eight closets stuffed full of ball gowns (insert sarcasm). I saw this bag at an excellent price and realized not only was the price worth it, but it would even be something that I would use on a regular basis. Calculated anticipated cost per wear actually made sense. Now I am anxiously awaiting in the mail my Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q City Bag. They even offered free shipping. I can only hope my order won't get canceled.

More skulls, right before Halloween

As many of us are figuratively chained to our desks during the work week, someone at Neiman Marcus online got the bright idea of a "Mid-day Dash." After hearing the grumblings of many others with regard to the utility of the items offered I began to think it was more of a "Mid-day Downer." Really, I already have a closet full of ball gowns to wear to my next 9 am status meeting, thanks. And the darling matching clutch that will hold all the files I lug around as well as a 15" laptop. Ah, sarcasm.

Leave it to someone at Saks to think of a better way to do this type of flash sale. This morning I got my exclusive email which gave me 24-hour access to merchandise that I actually could use. Casual dresses, jeans, larger bags, sweaters, scarves and sunglasses. All at 50% off. Now that's what I'm talking about!

And of course as I love just about Alexander McQueen puts out, I added a scarf to my collection.

You know it's fall when the faux fur comes out

I'm a little late for fall fashions as they were released months ago. But with the weather here, more days lately have been better suited to cotton cargos. Having just cracked open the November issue of Elle, I fell in teddy bear love with this faux fur vest. Sadly, as print publications fall dismally behind stores and internet, you may have to hunt for this piece of faux fuzz. Online (in limited quantities) at Kohl's.

Smell like a divine pistachio (without the salt)

I got a free sample of Laura Mercier Creme de Pistache Souffle Body Cream the other day. It was hanging out on my desk and my hands were dry, so I gave it a try. It is creamy, light and beyond delightful. I had thought the mere mention of souffle and cream would render it much heavier and not as desirable. I've already made a note to myself to put it on my Christmas list. You can find it at Neiman Marcus.

Hitchcock's new chair (or it should be)

Every once in a while a great furniture design catches my eye. I love interior design, but sadly aside from hitting two home runs with kitchens, I fall flat in other rooms. I leave those to the professionals. Normally Neiman Marcus home decor is a little too fussy for me and sometimes borders on shabby chic, which isn't my style. Maybe I could call this spooky chic?

This chair is perfection -- the concept has been executed in many different ways but I have never seen it done quite like this. I'm scheming to see how I can put one in my own place. It's available by phone and online at Neiman Marcus.

Fish bones as fashion

Any movie lovers? Did you see the Sex and the City movie? If you did, you might remember the high heeled version of this shoe that was worn by Samantha. Although these are flats, they are just as funky and I really hope I can grab a pair for less than retail before they sell out. See them at Saks and also if you'd like to preorder them -- they won't be out for a few months. By Giuseppe Zanotti.

Finally, a lady-like look

I grew up hearing the words "That's not lady-like" a lot. I wasn't quite sure what I would look like or act like if I were truly lady-like. But something tells me true ladies would be wearing gloves that look like this -- a bit longer on the wrist and with classic stitching. These are currently available at Coach Factory Stores. Helpful fashion tip: they run a little shorter in the fingers than other brands I've tried on, so if you have smaller hands, they will be a great fit.

Thinking Passion Purple

I really love Tory Burch flats (except for the plastic ones and the patent ones). Okay, I love the leather and suede ones. And I keep on checking the Tory Burch website to see when the leopard print Revas might reappear. I'm also a sucker for pinkish purple, so when I noticed these on the Saks website I couldn't resist, which probably comes as no surprise.

Buckles 'n' Boots

There have been a plethora of fabulous boots this fall season. Thankfully, not all of them will induce me to break an ankle. Here's a memorable rendition of hard-core buckles and black leather meeting up with the reality of running around all day (and not as a groupie but being seen trolling the aisles of Target for the latest in Halloween costumes for pets). And how can you resist knowing that Saks Friends & Family is coming up this week? I doubt I can. Boots are by Loeffler Randall and are at Saks.

The good looking, smartly priced bag of the year goes to ...

Coach. Yep, Coach. They have come up with some product lines that have seemed more focused toward the younger set, say those without driver's licenses yet. The Poppy line is indicative of that thinking. I too had abandoned Coach until this year, when the Zoe caught my eye. My curiosity was even more piqued when I found them at the outlet stores and I just about fell over when I found additional 20% off coupons. That put me over the edge. I had to try one. I started with a deep red and was hooked. The bag is functional, holds a lot, and is fully lined in a beautiful satin material. Not only that, but you can't beat it for a durable weekend bag that inevitably is going to wind up in your cart at Walgreen's or Costco. Ah yes, the glamorous life.

This amazing bag comes in a rainbow of colors, although some have since left the outlets and are popping up on eBay. I've added grey patent and copper to my collection.

Currently, these bags are at the outlets for $279 + 30% off, and if you are lucky enough to find an extra 20% off coupon you're walking away for $156 for each bag. Now that, my friend, is value.

Fantasy meets reality with a good ending

I can see how this is Marc Jacobs' answer to the Louis Vuitton fantasy line a few years ago. However, inasmuch as it's not completely original, the forest animals are adorable. This bag is pretty difficult to find, I snagged the last one at Saks here in San Francisco.

Happy Smiley Suede Shoes

These Tory Burch ballet flats are a proverbial ray of sunshine among all the rocker chic wear. They provide a hint of the unexpected and happy. In fact, even on a Monday I cannot stop thinking about them and how nice and bright they would look on my feet. I can always save the studded boots for another day. These cuties are available at Bloomingdale's.

Iconic Chanel boots

As soon as you look at these boots, you know they are Chanel with the tell-tale quilting. Chanel becoming hip is a relatively new phenomenon, as I can recall only old wealthy white ladies with gloves used to wear it. Outfits consisted of tweed suits, a proper hat and matching gloves. Either I am getting closer to that older lady milestone myself, or Chanel is appealing to a broader audience. I'd like to think the latter. I'm seeing many very young women wearing Chanel lately, although sometimes authenticity can be in question. This boot also comes in a shorter bootie style, but either way you can't lose. Find these boots at department stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.