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!

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. (more…)

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. (more…)

I’m never happy to post that a store is closing – especially a Canadian small business that has a stellar reputation and selection of drool-worthy baby products. Alas, Pinky Blue is closing it’s doors -

It is our sad duty to notify you that Pinky Blue will be closing its doors soon. The past 6 years have been a wonderful experience for us. We have been lucky to be part of your lives, share parenting tips, see your children grow and witness some of you become parents for the first time. Thank you for your time and trust, without you, Pinky Blue would never have been possible.

I’ve purchased from Pinky Blue several times over the past few years and I’ve always had great experiences; competitive prices, reasonable shipping costs and quick delivery. Really sad to see them go.  But, to Business -

Here are my picks for items you should take a second look at. Where possible, I’ve listed a competitor’s current selling price so you can judge for yourself if it’s a sweet deal.  (more…)

Let the Holiday shopping begin!

Today only, you can save 30% off ALL orders at Foxy Originals (includes regular AND sale merchandise)! Simply enter code GIFT30 at checkout.

Plus, don’t forget that you can grab $8 flat rate shipping anywhere in North America… or FREE shipping on orders over $75! I’ve got a few gals on my Christmas list who would love the gift of Foxy :)

Click here to shop at Foxy Originals. 

I’m sure you’ve seen the HIGH-larious Zellers video making the rounds on your favourite blogs – you know, the one poking fun at its inevitable demise? Of course I wanted to share it with my readers as well. Now since it’s no secret that I have a love affair with the “huge American retailer that shall remain nameless”… I must say that I’m pleasantly surprised that Zellers has taken the high road. Much respect to them, actually.

Before I ramble on, here’s the video:

Quite the laugh, no? But beyond the chuckles, I love that Zellers, rather than avoiding the subject, is actively participating in its transition by reaching out to customers via social media. Too many times a company throws in the towel – especially when they know the clock is ticking – and forgets about their customers altogether. Yes, I assumed Zellers would be in this camp.

It’s actually quite awesome that they’re proving me wrong.

Here’s how you can make the most of their festive finale: Head on over to Zellers on Facebook. You’ll be able to do everything from setting the sale prices of merchandise to picking the in-store music playlist (I vote for Backstreet Boys on repeat!). Facebook fans will also have access to exclusive offers and deals – like the $15 off coupon I snagged last week :)

For real – this campaign is already more memorable than anything Zellers has offered to date. Such a shame we won’t get to see more… but I suppose that’s why its called “Going Out with a BANG!”

And, bonus points for incorporating wolves into the message. Bahaha!

Click here to visit Zellers on Facebook.

This post is sponsored by Zellers.

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.

Do you love the great outdoors? Are you an avid camper? Then you won’t want to miss this HUGE sale at MTF Price Matters!

(Sadly, I am not a camping enthusiast. But that could be because my idea of “roughing it” is staying at a 3-star hotel. Shiver.)

There is so much to choose from – Charcoal Grills, Sleeping Bags, Cooler Chairs, Tents, Life Jackets, Skim Boards, Shower Tents and more - all at awesome prices.

Check out this classic teepee tent – I’ve seen tents like this in Wal-mart for over $300 (hubby had a phase where he wanted to set up a backyard camp with the boys) – at MTF Price Matters? Just $219.99!

And if you’ve been reading my blog, you’ll know that I’ve been obsessed with picnicking. Outdoor dining just got a little more civilized, thanks to this cool new Home Living Picnic Backpack For Four!

A unique and special gift for people who don’t wait for an invitation to get the party started. Pack up the Picnic Bag, and you’re ready to go. Has a storage compartment, side insulated Wine/drink pouch, a matching interior blanket and a cooler pack in the rear. The front picnic pocket set includes: – 4 forks, 4 knives and 4 spoons, stainless steel – 1 cutting board – 1 cheese Knife, stainless steel – 1 set of spill proof salt and pepper shakers, – 4 plates, 9″ – 1 corkscrew, stainless steel.

As always, MTF Price Matters has a flat shipping rate of $15 for Canadians so you can load up your cart and pay only one small fee.

And 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!

(Just in case you’re wondering: all of the merchandise at MTF Price Matters is 100% authentic. They simply do not do knock-offs. So you can take the low, low prices at face value – they’re awesome deals, plain and simple.)

Click here to shop at MTF Price Matters.

A few days ago, I posed the question “What’s going on with Jacob? All the locations near me are closing.” Thanks to a handy tip from reader the brother, I discovered that Jacob was recently granted court protection from creditors, citing sizable losses and blaming burgeoning competition from international retailers. Another Canadian retailer down the tube? Unless your name is Zellers, that really blows :(

Anyhoo, in the meantime, take advantage of 50% the original ticket price on their entire store, excluding basic bras and gift cards.

Click here to visit Jacob.ca.

(Still no online shopping? Well, there’s your problem right there!)

LOVE this time of year – it’s RW & CO’s EXTRA 40% off sale! You can take 40 points off the last ticketed price on a huge selection of sale merchandise. Is it 10am yet? I am SO there! (Limited time only)

On a somewhat related note, my good friend Jacob has been disappearing from some of my local stops. First, Jacob closed down in Erin Mills Town Centre, and I just heard the store also waved buh-bye at Heartland Town Centre. What gives? Jacob is THE uniform for working gals everywhere! Anyone have any insider info?

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.

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.

Here we go! My weekly (sometimes) roundup of some of the hottest deals for Canadians! Courtesy of Canadian Daily Deals, here are my picks:

Shoppers Drug Mart: Free $10 Gift Card With $20 Product Purchase
Banana Republic Canada: 40% Off Tops and Shorts (May 24 5-8pm)
Sears Canada: 40% Off Regular Priced Women’s Fashions (May 24)
Old Navy Canada: 20% Off Coupon In-store and Online (May 24)
Smashbox Cosmetics: 20% Off Friends and Family (Until May 27)
Knorr Canada: Buy 3 Knorr Products Get 1 Free Coupon
Wagjag: Free $5 Credit Coupon Code For New Signups

… and more!

Click here to visit Canadian Daily Deals.

HOT DEAL ALERT!

A lot of y’all tuned in for my Lena Loves… LeapFrog Interactive High Chair review and giveaway. For those who missed it, here are the highlights…

Lena Loves:

- The LeapFrog Interactive High Chair includes three trays: an interactive tray, a dishwasher safe try, and a removable base tray.
- The interactive tray features a touch sensitive screen that allows babies to thump along to the alphabet or the beat of a song.
- High Chair is suitable for children up to 10 years old (!), making it truly a product that grows with your child.
- The frame is made from durable German beech wood and features and adjustable seat and foot rest area, in addition to a removable front bar.
- The LeapFrog Interactive High Chair is loved by both my children!

Click here to read my full review.

Well, peeps, GREAT NEWS! Regularly $299, the high chair is now on sale for just $99 – tax included!

Baby showers. New parents. Deserving wee ones. Or to upgrade your Graco (there, I said it). Go on and get this awesome high chair today!!!

The LeapFrog Interactive High Chair can be purchased directly from gtbaby.com. Happy Shopping!

It’s BACK!

Until May 19th, save 40% off ALL nail polishes and treatments. Select locations carry premium brands such as OPI (the real stuff, not just Nicole by OPI) so stop by your local store today!

Click here to find a store near you.

Need some inspiration? According to multiple sources, the hottest shade of Summer 2011 is…

Glo-Getter
Stop traffic with a day-glo mani. Gamma (left) looks like a bottled up fluorescent glow stick while Tangerine (right) has a subtle sheen that reminds me of a favorite summertime snack.

Illamasqua Nail Varnish in Gamma, $14; sephora.com
Revlon Nail Enamel in Tangerine, $5; drugstores nationwide

Read more: Summer Nail Trends 2011 – Real Beauty