I am not often a fan of self-diagnosis…it doesn’t do you much good anyway; (no pharmacy will take your prescriptions). However, I feel I am fully qualified when it comes to prescribing retail therapy for myself and others.

In New York, the business of glamor doesn’t stop, so why should we? ( Ok, the economy is a good reason), but this week, celebrity-endorsed designers are holding fabulous sample sales all over town.

The dynamic duo of Italy, Dolce & Gabbana are selling cougar-friendly silk leopard-print blouses is $350 (originally $695), skinny denim jeans are $395 (originally $795), and silk-blend skirt suits are $1,555 (originally $3,195) at the brand’s spring sample sale this week.

When: 6/16–6/21; T–W (11–7), Th–S (11–8), Su (11–7).
Where: 125 W. 18th St., nr. Sixth Ave. (877-703-4872).

Grand master of American couture (dressing first ladies, Beyonce and NYC’s #1 fashion fan Sarah Jessica Parker) Oscar de la Renta is holding a sample sale for everything from daywear to evening gowns. I have been in Oscar’s office several times as an embroidery designer. He has used my designs in his collection as well as his collection for couture house Balmain. I always thought he was intimidating until I saw him with his adopted son Serge. With Serge in the room, the tall, fierce designer turned into any other Dad who was just ecstatic to be spending time with his boy.

Don’t forget to enter his big giveaway!

Wednesday 9-7 , Thursday 9-6
Flatotel – Sizes 2 to 16 available
137 West 52 Street
(6-7 Avenues)5 Floor
917.533.8251

For accessories, look no further than Rodo. This Italian house produces exquisite shoes and handbags that trample all over the red carpet. At this sale, you can literally obtain the actual handbag that a celebrity carried at an event. This was the first sale I hit this week… I allegedly have Debra Messing’s metallic snakeskin clutch and three pairs of F**K-me shoes that I wanted to hug to sleep. $800 bags were dropped to $85…

Today through June 19th
11:30-4 M-F 11-6
37 West 57 Street (5-6 Avenues) 12 Floor
212.751.1477

If you can’t be in NYC (or too lazy to shop in person), check out Gilt.com for online sample sales of the same caliber of designers. I have picked up many a designer goodie from the comfort of my home.

June 17, 2009

SOURCE: Red Carpet Ready on a Civilian Dime