Friday, December 31, 2010


Silver clutch:  $1 @ EFADS
Pink bunny shoes:  $1 @ EFADS

I ended up buying these on a whim.  I'm really glad I did, since they were just about cleared out the next time I went to that location! 

I don't have kids, but I thought I would save it for that occasion...either that, or put it on one of my toys.  They were just too cute to pass up! 

The clutch is pretty cheap quality, but I thought I could at least reuse the kiss lock mechanism.  This was the only silver one left, which is what prompted this entire purchase.

The silhouette/cameo type thing is a memento from a memorable day out.  A great start to the new year!

Monday, December 27, 2010


Avon - leaf candle holder:  10 for $1 (!) @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $5+ each)
Burnished brown studded bag:  $5 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $43.50)
Roberto Vianni - black suede boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $189.95)

I see now that I never blogged about it, but a while ago I bought two Avon items for a dollar from Liquidation World - the candle holder above and a LED flower bouquet.

I actually decided I wanted to get more, but the sale was over by that time.

I was biding my time, waiting for it to come back again...when I suddenly came upon the 10 for $1 sign today!  I thought it would just be for the cheaper items, so imagine my surprise when the worker assured me those were included as well.

I bought 3 of the votive holders above, 2 more LED bouquets, and 5 golden butterfly wall mounted votive holders.   I honestly wonder if they made any money on this sale!

I actually wanted to buy the butterfly holders a while ago, but again, the sale was over.  I would also need a lot of them, since I planned to cover the length of at least one with them.

Anyhow, now I don't think 5 is enough.  10 probably would have been, but the boxes take up so much room, and I don't really have the space...maybe I'll go back for more some other time.

I couldn't carry out my plan until I had my own place, which doesn't seem like it'll happen in the foreseeable future.

Still, when it does, I'd like to have one room with these mounts furnished across the walls.  They would look amazing with candles lit in place!

I wasn't sure about the purse.   I don't really like purses that big, but I am a fan of all of the studs and compartments.

Since I don't have any purses of that size in that colour, it came home with me today.  Love that it's still on the website.  Also bought my mom a cute little purse since she came with me.

 

Another bout of deja vu-these boots came home with me again.

For $5, I just couldn't help it!  They're so comfortable and such great quality.  I've worn my other ones so much, the heels are getting a bit scuffed..so I thought I might as well have a back up pair.  I'm thinking of converting them to thigh highs if I find the appropriate material.

Friday, December 24, 2010


Chapman's ice cream truck:  free
Mentha Organics - sheer rose lip tint:  free @ Bath and body works (RSP:  $7.50)
Red Velvet PocketBac Hand gel:  $2 @ Bath and body works

The truck was from Chapman's kids club - for kids of all ages!  Took a bit over two weeks of playing games to win that truck.

Not going to lie..I signed up just to get that truck.  You can't get it anywhere else, and I'm a sucker for realistic models.

I ordered it around the 12th, and it arrived at my door on Christmas eve!  Great timing.  I ended up giving it to my brother since he was really impressed with it.

I'm really impressed with the company!  What a great gesture, definitely makes me give their ice cream preference.

As for the other stuff, I had a coupon.  A free lip item with any purchase.  That was my first time shopping there, and I was surprised at how attentive and friendly the sales associates were.

I also really liked that they put everything in cute paper bags.  I probably won't shop there again unless there's some other worthwhile promotion though.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

 

Purses:  3 for $10 (RSP:  $19.99 each)
















 Tights/socks/leg warmers/capris: 10 for $10 (RSP: $6.99 - $9.99 each)

All @ Ardene

I haven't been here in a while, mainly because it's so out of the way.  This is still the only Ardene around with this pricing, so I was hoping it would still be the same when I came today.

It was and I was ecstatic!  I wonder if they have this pricing year round.  I'll definitely come back here once each season.  They had a bunch of stuff I never saw before, mainly the purses!  I have a big thing for ruffles, so those had to come home with me.

I was all set to get some new socks, I was thinking those would make up the bulk of my 10 for $10.  I ended up finding a few 2 packs in there, so the single pairs didn't really seem worth it after that.  I ended up getting a bunch of tights instead, most of them made of thicker material.

Joy & Peace - Claudia-07 - clear heeled platform pumps:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $69.95)
Can opener:  $1.25 @ Dollarama

Went shopping to a far away mall with a friend today.  The one with the cheap Ardene...bought so much stuff there, it deserves its own post!

Didn't think I'd buy anything from Shoe Warehouse.  It's been pretty picked over from the previous half off sales...surprisingly enough, it's back on!

I just had to have the above when I saw them!  When my friend pointed them out to me, I couldn't contain my excitement.  I love everything about them from the clear platforms to the polka dots on the inside.  There's even a textured metal rod inside the heel!

They were a size 8 though, so I didn't think they would fit.  I tried them on, and amazingly, they fit perfectly!  A bow on top would complete these shoes, so I'll be making those once I have some free time.

Can opener's a stocking stuffer for my mom.  It's one of those ones that make the edges smooth, so let's see how that goes.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010


Old Navy - wool blend pants (RSP:  $39.50)
Old Navy - Maternity low rise boot cut jeans (RSP:  $29.50)
The Gap - grey pants (RSP:  $45)
The Gap - kahkis (RSP:  $45)

All 4 for $1 @ Revlon Warehouse

13.5" Quatchi with mittens:  free @ Northern Gifts (RSP:  $32)

I ended up having to go to work early today, so I decided to check out this warehouse.

I'm not sure how long it's going to be there, but it's been there for a month at least.  Mostly discounted toiletries, but not really at prices that compel me to buy them.  Some $1 hair dyes, but I don't want to be blonde.

I noticed they had some clothing, wasn't really expecting that.  Most of the pants and jeans were only $2.50, and they were brand names too!  The problem was the huge sizing, so I passed them up.

Then I saw a table at the back marked 4 for $1..I thought that had to be a mistake, but it turned out to be true!

Everything ended up being slightly damaged somehow, but that's an amazing price for new clothes!  All of them are too big for me though, so I'll have to tailor them a bit.

Two of them are missing buttons, others have slight wear in certain places.  Totally worth it though, for the brand and quality.  Most of them are going to be made into shorts.

The Quatchi is another freebie from the usual place.  Normally I wouldn't go back since I have the whole set now, but I went since he's my favourite.  Took my whole family this time!  He's the same as this one, except this one has mittens.

Thursday, December 16, 2010


Rawlings - black/white pinstripe pants:  $1.50 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $37.99)
VuPoint Solutions - digital photo frame keychain:  free @ XSCargo (RSP:  $10)
Rawlings - Women's low rise pants:  $1 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $27.99)
Pink fur:  $4.40 @ Fabricland
Supertek - One touch automatic vegetable slicer:  $2.99 @ Showcase (RSP:  $11.99)
Wilson - white pants:  $.80 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $16.99)
Reebok - grey tank top:  $.60 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $12)
White earbuds:  $.01 @ BrandsDragon
Wilson - white pants:  $.60 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $12.99)

I've been planning to go to this area for a while.  Yesterday I learned that XSCargo was having a promotional giveaway, so that sealed the deal.  I ended up going ten minutes early and there was no line up.

I thought they would just give them away at the door, but they didn't even mention it!  You had to go ask for it.  I've never seen a giveaway work like that before.  

Then made the usual rounds.  Found some more sporting goods apparel at Liquidation World-now I wish I didn't buy these, pants, since I saw them for their real price here.

The tank top isn't anything special, and it's also a really small girls size...but since it was so stretchy I decided to try it out.  I admit I picked it up because of the brand and price.

I've been looking for a mandoline for a while, and I saw one for a good price at one of those 'as seen on tv' stores.  I don't know how good it is, but I thought it was worth a shot for that price.

Too bad it's battery operated, but at least it's automatic.  If it's any good, I'll probably pick up more as Christmas presents.

Lastly, ended up buying some more fur to make wigs.  I already have a lot of pinks, but not that colour or length.  It was regular price, but I don't think it's worth it to get the membership.

Monday, December 13, 2010


Rawlingsgirls low rise softball pants:  $1.50 @ Liquidation World  (RSP:  $22.99)

The same as the grey ones I bought here, complete with the same inaccurate pricing.  No label this time though, so I had to pay the quoted price.

They're worth it for the quality!  I'll definitely pick up more if I find them in black or dark blue.  They were marked as 90% off today, which would explain the pricing they were last time.

Sunday, December 12, 2010


Ashley by 26 International - brown pleather military jacket:  $6 @ Winners (RSP:  $55+)

I'm still on the fence about this.  If it was actually six bucks, I would have snatched it up without a second thought!

The only reason it was that low was because I used my free $10 gift card...I kind of wonder if I should have used it on something that was a better deal.  I might end up returning this in the end.

I do like how it looks, except I wish it zipped up the whole way.  I was thinking that I might make that modification myself, but then it would seem pretty pointless to pay that much for something I wanted to change.

My max for a jacket like that (mainly for show-not leather, barely provides warmth) is around $10.

Thursday, December 9, 2010


Softlips lip balms:  all 3 for $.48 @ London Drugs (RSP:  $4.99 each)
Dri-wear socks:  free @ Mark's Work Warehouse (RSP:  $7.99)
Airwick i-motion compact - vanilla - free @ Wal Mart (RSP: $7.99)
Rimmel London - stay glossy lipgloss - non stop glamour:  $.81 @ Superstore (RSP:  $7.99)
Ear plugs:  $.40 @ Marks Work Warehouse

More Softlips, I wanted to try one of every flavor.  I ended up giving away a few too.

I finally tried one out-they have a nice tingly sensation upon application, and are pretty pleasant overall.  But I find that the cheaper chapsticks moisturize my lips better...I'll see if this ones fares any better smothered on. 

I bought the lip gloss on a whim.  I noticed that there was an in store coupon for $2 off any lip makeup from certain brands.  I then noticed that Shoppers Drug Mart had a certain type on sale for $2.99 that week, so I went there to price match.

At first she said I couldn't use the coupon, but I didn't see why that would be.  Thankfully she checked with her superiors and they ok'd the whole thing.

I never shop at Marks Work Warehouse, but they were offering free socks with any purchase.  I needed earplugs, so I bought those to get the socks.  I had no idea there were such technologically advanced socks!  The quality is really evident.

Monday, December 6, 2010


Softlips lip balms:  all 6 for $.92 @ London Drugs (RSP:  $4.99 each)
Sailor Moon light up music box:  $1.99 @ Value Village

My first time coupon stacking at London Drugs.  I had a $2 manufacturer's coupon, plus they were having their own promo where you got a free one with the purchase of two other ones.  Had to price match to get the deal.

I originally did it to give some away, but now I kind of want to keep them myself..I'll probably go back for some to actually give away tomorrow.

Went to Value Village today on a whim.  Funnily enough, this is my 3rd box-my other two came from here as well, this exact location.

This one's in near mint condition, while the other ones are pretty rough.  I'll probably try to sell the other two now that I have this one.

Saturday, December 4, 2010


13.5" plush Quatchi:  free @ Northern Gifts (RSP:  $30)
Baby Phat sunglasses:  $5 @ Winners (RSP:  $59)

The one above was actually my favourite mascot, and the last one I needed to complete the set.  It also ended up being the biggest one they gave away, so I was pretty happy about that.

Since I wanted to check out Vancouver, I decided to go to that location instead-big mistake! 

That one was so much smaller, they only let a few people in at a time.  I ended up waiting in line for half an hour!  The line never let up...I ended up being in the middle pretty soon after I arrived.

Anyway, he was totally worth it.  If they end up giving away any of the bigger sized mascots, I might go back for the others.

The glasses are a Christmas gift for my sister.  I know she likes that brand, but I'm not sure if these are her style.  I'll just give her the receipt in case.

Friday, December 3, 2010



Tan trench coat:  $1 @ SPCA thrift store

I came here on a whim.  I saw a craigslist ad stating everything in their store was half off-they had a bunch of brand names listed so I was pretty curious.  I basically based my whole trip around my being in this area.

Well, the store was pretty disappointing.  I didn't see any of the brands mentioned in the ad, it was pretty small, and I didn't happen to see anything I liked.

At the front of the store, they had a bunch of clothing for $1-some even had their original tags on!  None fit me though, and the styles were pretty ugly.

When I was about to leave, I saw the coat above at the very front of the rack-I couldn't believe it was only $1!  It's the best quality coat I've ever seen.

I didn't see a brand listed, but it's made in Poland and has several other informational labels.  I wonder if it might be custom made, and I really have no clue how old it is.   

It actually has a removable liner!  It's ridiculously warm because of that.

The non removable liner is plaid, which I'm just a sucker for.  Also has a belt and other buckled details..definitely wouldn't have picked it up if it didn't.

I'm really hesitant about buying used clothes, but I submitted this time because it looked brand new!  Plus, the quality and price...

At home I found a few slight stains, but it was still a steal.   I didn't having any cash on me, so I ended up having to pay an additional fee for debit.  It also turns out that the things on the outside weren't half off as advertised, since they were on final clearance. 

The only problem is the size..it's plus sized!  But I bought it because I plan on tailoring it to fit.  I'm pretty sure it'll look amazing once I'm done with it.

It still has dry cleaning tags on it, but sadly, it has that unpleasant thrift store must..I'll have to wash it before I tailor it.  That won't be for a while though.

Rocket dog - london town - white polka dot canvas shoes:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $69.95)
Roberto Vianni - pink flats:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $49.95)
Rinaldi - White pointy kitten heels:  $12.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $64.99)

I normally don't care for these kind of shoes, but I needed some lower heels for professional use.  At least one pair!  That's why I ended up buying the Rinaldi shoes, even though I normally wouldn't pay that much.  I've gotten better shoes for cheaper, but what can I say...I needed them.

I don't know if they're actually professional looking enough, but they'll do for now.  Kitten heels, leather upper, ridiculously comfortable, and just my size...I had to get them.  I actually thought they were pretty cute.  Rinaldi shoes are normally pretty cheap quality, but these ones are surprisingly nice. 

There were nearly identical shoes in leopard print for $5 that I really wanted to get, but they ended up being a little too small.  I'm really hoping I'll find one a half size bigger later on.

I actually did a while back, and I'm really kicking myself for not getting them back then.  The price was marked higher, and I really didn't care for the style back then.  I'm only starting to warm up to really pointy shoes.

The other ones are just really cute and comfortable.  Not as comfortable as runners, but I'm sure they'll come in handy sometime.  I don't think I would have paid any more for them, and I probably won't be adding any similar shoes to my closet.

I actually love the pink ones!  They remind me of ballet shoes.  My mom actually bought a pair a month ago, and I'd been lusting after hers ever since.  I pounced on these when I saw them in my size!

I don't normally buy flats because most are pretty cheap quality, and uncomfortable to boot.  This one wasn't entirely flat, and the quality was good so it came home with me.

Monday, November 29, 2010


White ruffled purse:  $1.83 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $27.50)
Gingham leggings:  $1.08 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $20.50)
Pink foiled star purse:  $1.08 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $16)
Eyelet clutch frame wallet:  $1.19 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $18.25)
Pink/black clutch frame wallet:  $1.19 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $18.25)
Blue sequined clutch frame wallet:  $.59 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $18.25)
Other clutch frame wallets:  $1.23 each @ Claire's  (RSP:  $18.25)



Rose/chain oval hard case:  $1.19 @ Claire's  (RSP:  $18.25)

I decided to check out the location downtown today-I'm glad I did!  They had a pretty big selection of stuff, so I ended up using my $10 coupon here.

The prices ended up being crazy!  I almost wish I got another $10 coupon during the event.  It really wouldn't have taken much more effort to have gotten it this time, but oh well. 

Next time I'm going to be taking full advantage of this offer-it's so worth it!  The prices ended up being unbelievable.

The bag is indeed the same one I bought the other day-since my mom liked it, I thought I might as well pick one up for her.  Turns out a lot of the stuff I bought today is shown here.
 

Eastons:  pinstripe baseball pants:  $1.50 @ Liquidation World  (RSP:  $32.99)
Rawlingsgirls low rise softball pants:  $1 @ Liquidation World  (RSP:  $22.99)

I was specifically hoping to find more clothing today.  I really didn't think I would find anything from the sports section, but they're pretty much sweatpants, except better quality.

Same kind of stretch and comfort, except they actually bother to put in a zipper and snaps.  I just wanted something nicer to lounge around the house in...I've been looking for a while, but never found anything within my price range.  I'm really not willing to splurge for something I won't be going out in.

All sports apparel was 75% off the last ticketed price-I assumed it would end up being $3.75 (grappled with that for a while, then decided it was worth it).  To my surprise, it ended up being less than half that!

I'm so glad I decided to buy them since they're totally worth it for that price.  I don't normally bother checking the prices there since the scanner is always so finicky.

Once I discovered.the price discrepancy, I went back for the other pants above.  They're girls softball pants, but they look like capri length leggings.

If they weren't a large I probably wouldn't have bothered.  They looked pretty small already...when I finally tried them on, I didn't think they were going to come up.

Well, that material is really stretchy, and it ended up working somehow.  It almost fits like a shaping garment...the quality is pretty impressive.

They actually lost the tag and attached a hand written tag with the same code as the other pair of pants..funnily enough, I checked the pants pocket before buying it-the other tag happened to be in there!

At first they insisted that the other price was right, but when I finally got them to read the tag, they grudgingly gave me the correct price.

I really don't see what the big deal was..it was obvious that was the right one, everything matched up!

Saturday, November 27, 2010


White ruffled purse:  $3.39 @ Claire's (RSP:  $27.50)
Ruffled gloves:  $1 @ Claire's (RSP:  $9.75)
Heart cut out gloves:  $1 @ Claire's (RSP:  $9.75)
Studded short gloves:  free @ Claire's (RSP:  $9.75)
Studded bow gloves:  $1 @ Claire's (RSP:  $9.75)
Belts:  $1 each @ Claire's (RSP:  $11.50)
Wallets:  $2.27 each @ Claire's (RSP:  $18.25)
10.5" Sumi plush:  free @ Northern Gifts (RSP:  $25)

Unbeknownst to me, Claire's had been offering a $10 off coupon for any purchase over $20 for over a month.  I rarely ever spend that much there, but it's worth it for the coupon.

Today was the last day to get it.  It was hard finding a Claire's with enough stuff I wanted, but I ended up going to the one that wouldn't honour the belts in the ten for $10 last time. 

That turned out to be a blessing in disguise, since there's no way I would have had enough this time!  Thankfully, the signs are much clearer now. 

They were also giving away free plush reindeer today for anyone who spent over $20 (seems to be their magic number), but they ran out just as I came.  Oh well.

I almost didn't get the coupon since the cashier said I was $.80 short.  I was so sure I planned it out carefully, but I left it alone since she gave me the coupon anyway.

When I was outside, I realized I was missing one of my items!  One of the gloves above..she forgot to ring it in.

Normally you have to buy in groups of ten to get the discount, so I asked her if I could just buy it separately for that price.  She ended up just giving it to me for free since it was her mistake, so that was a nice gesture.

Funnily enough, the gloves don't even fit!  They're way too tight for me to actually use comfortably.  I didn't think to try them out in the store..they should have used a stretchier fabric.

In happier news, I'm really enamored with that purse.  I'm glad I waited until now to pick it up-I remember passing it up the last time I was here because I thought it was this purse I already have.  What can I say, I was in a rush.   It's similar, except a lot smaller and shaped differently.  Surprisingly good quality for them.

Since I was in the area, I ended up picking up another free olympic plush.  Just one more and I'll have the whole set!

This one was my least favourite.  He looked really cute in the picture, but I was pretty horrified by him in person.

Friday, November 26, 2010


White Alice in Wonderland shirt:  $2.79 @ Claire's (RSP:  $22.75)
Grey Alice in Wonderland shirt:  $2.79 @ Claire's (RSP:  $22.75)
Disderi 4 lens camera:  $3.09 @ Claire's (RSP:  $25)
Zebra print clutch:  $2.19 @ Claire's (RSP:  $18.25)

I know that today is black Friday in the US-nothing normally happens here, except I suppose some chains that also have stores in the US do a little something for us.

All clearanced items were 75% off the last price-it was unbelievable!  I don't remember them ever going above the 50% they offer with the 10 for $10 deal.

I really wanted the above shirts, but didn't think they were worth $6.  When I found out about this new clearance, they immediately came to mind.

They are really thin, and keeping in mind that I've gotten better quality shirts for even less than that, it took me a while to decide.

The white one was a no brainer, but I spent a few minutes contemplating putting the grey one back on the rack.

I'm realllly annoyed I bought that camera a few weeks back.  I still haven't used it yet!  I griped about the price back then, and now I'm lamenting it even more knowing I could have gotten it for a price I would have preferred.

I ended up buying this second one in case something happens to the first one...at least that's like getting two at the price that just one would cost me online.

The clutch was a nice surprise.  I didn't see it any of the other times, so they must have brought it out just recently. I'm definitely not willing to pay more than that for that style purse.














Chadwicks - pink pinstripe pants:  $2 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $39.99)
Enakei scheduler:  $2 @ A Buck of Two
Bandai Sailor Moon locket:  $2.99 @ Value Village
Betsey Johnson - 232 aviator - cherry - pink sunglasses w/yellow tinted frames:  $2 @ Winners (RSP:  $55)
Nicole Lee - blue framed aviator unglasses:  $2 @ Winners (RSP:  $20+)

Liquidation World was having another midnight madness sale today, so that was the primary reason for this whole trip.

Last time I got some amazing deals, but this time it was just like any other day.  The pants I bought weren't affected by the sale at all...I had been eyeing them for a while, but wasn't sure if they would look nice (no fitting rooms).

The last time I saw them they were five bucks...once I saw them for this price, I thought it was worth a shot.  If anything, I'm pretty sure they'd make cute shorts.

I then went to the Value Village nearby.  I haven't found any Sailor Moon items in a long time-the role playing toys are my favourite, so I was really excited when I found the above today.

I already have one, but that was in the grubbiest condition I've ever seen....it cleaned up ok, but I would have never bought anything else in such disgusting condition from a thrift store.  The one I got today looks almost perfect, so it's a total upgrade.  I just hope it works...

I heard that Michael's was having some crazy clearance sale-$2 for a garbage bag full of stuff-but sadly, I didn't see anything like that today.

The line ups were huge though!  I really didn't understand why.  I took a quick look around the store, and everything seemed to be priced the same.

Picked up the same planner I had for this year.  If I find something better, I might make a change, but I really like how these are formatted.  The awesome drawings don't hurt either.

Finally, I found some cheap sunglasses at Winners!  I was in shock when I saw how cheap they were...I didn't even see any that low during final clearance time!

I don't normally buy sunglasses, but I couldn't pass them up for that price.  Especially since I love Betsey Johnson.

The funny thing is, I was just thinking to myself during the last final clearance that I should pick up some sunglasses next time...that was after passing up some $3-$5 glasses.

I did see $1 glasses once, but they were broken a little, whereas these ones are in perfect condition.  I guess I was just in the right place at the right time, since nothing else there was that cheap.

I can't wait until the next final clearance sale!

Saturday, November 20, 2010


Dancing couple clock:  $6.99 @ Value Village

I really had a hard time deciding on this one.

I love how it looks, and I think it's such an adorable idea...but it's really cheaply made.  Just plastic, which doesn't really make it seem worth the price.  If it was a sturdier material, it would have come home with me in a heartbeat.

The details make it!  The little sun coming down, the cityscape...there seems to be one piece missing at the top, I wonder what it was.

Anyhow, I have 7 days to return it if I change my mind.  It's not really the kind of thing I normally go for..I prefer vintage/Victorian type decor.

Buuuut, there was just something about it.  I've never seen anything like that, and I might not again.  Just couldn't pass it up.  I've spent way more on crap that ended up being much worse, so that decides it.

Also, it was in pretty good condition.  Just like new...I really wonder when this was made.  Barely a scratch on it.  Though, who really needs clocks anymore?

Angel diary - Ballerina notebook - Star notebook:  $1.99 for all @ Value Village
9.5" Mukmuk plush:  free @ Northern Gifts (RSP:  $25)
My Little Pony:  Baby Lickety Split - Baby Tic Tac Toe - Daisy (birthflower pony):  $1.99 for all @ Value Village

It's funny.  I haven't bought a MLP in a long time...a few years ago, they'd have been the only thrift shop finds I would find worthwhile.  

The reason I started going in the first place was to find toys...first MLP, then other miscellaneous toys from the 80's.  

I've actually passed up a lot in the last few years.  They were either dirty, common, or just not worth the price to me.

Honestly, I basically only pick up ponies that I know are rare, or good condition babies that I don't already have (such a weak spot for the little ones). 

Finally, I've seen the light!  My horizons have now expanded and I pretty much check out everything.  For the last year, it's mostly been home decor or small personal (but not too personal) use items like the above.  

Still won't pass the clothing threshold though.  If it's something that someone's put against their bare skin for various periods of time, I'm not touching it!  

Unless it's new with tags...but I never have the patience to look through all of that junk to find those scarcities.  

I was overjoyed when I found the notebooks!  The angel one was the only one I really wanted, the other ones I probably would have passed up.  

I did like the ballerina image, but it's not something I would have gone out of my way to get.

The last one I don't really like that much, but I might as well use it since I have it.  I'll just put a better image in there :P.

Back to the angel one.  It's dollar store 'elegance' at it's best!  Kind of tacky, yet kind of awesome at the same time.  

The little 'frame' just makes it..I've never seen that kind of style before.  Of course, it just had to feature one of my favourite painters, William Bouguereau.

The picture was framed pretty stupidly (started almost halfway down), but I fixed it for the picture.  

On an interesting aside (to me anyway), it's actually multilingual inside:  english and spanish.  Here I was thinking french was that second language of ours.   

Sunday, November 14, 2010



Betseyville - Lucky - vinyl platform rain boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $149.95)

I really wasn't sure whether to buy this or not. 

The other one was a no brainer due to the awesome print-this one however, is a bit more generic.  I already have boots that are somewhat similar (and a lot more comfortable)

In the end, I bought them because I wanted another box (that box). 

Well, that wasn't the reason, but it was a reason.  For the price I paid, I'm sure I could make the money back easily if I decided to get rid of them!

Roberto Vianni - black studded scarf:  $1 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $19.95)
Roberto Vianni - white pvc chain purse:  $2.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $10+)
Super Girl tank top:  $1 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $6+)
Nail buffer/file set:  $.88 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $3)
Essie nail polishes - blanc - vanity fairest:  $1 each @ Trade Secret (RSP:  $10)

Decided to go to Coquitlam today, primarily to get the nail polish above.  That turned out to be disappointing as there were barely any shades left.  Still, I was happy since I'd been looking for those particular shades for a long time.

Since I was in the area, I decided to go to my old standbys.  For some reason Shoe Warehouse is having another half off sale, but their stock hasn't changed much.

I never noticed how cheap their accessories were!  The scarf is pretty cheap quality, I'm really surprised anyone thought it was worth $20.  I could make it myself easily, but I thought the buck was worth saving myself the trouble.

I really like the purse, but it's quite marked up.  I'm hoping I can get some of them off, but if not, I still won't mind that much.  I don't think they're that noticeable from far away.  In any case, I definitely wouldn't have paid more for it in that condition.

The tank top was a medium, and there's no dressing room in that chain of stores.  I figured I would risk it for a buck.  It'll be an easy fix if it's too big.

Saturday, November 13, 2010


9.5" Miga plush:  free @ Northern Gifts (RSP:  $27)

I sure didn't care about the Olympics, but I did think the mascots were cute.  Still, I didn't have an overwhelming desire to purchase any of the copious amounts of crap they came out with.

I went to Burnaby today to check out a few things (that was a bust).  Since I was in the area, I decided to check out the Olympic warehouse for the first time today. 

I wouldn't normally have gone, but they had a promotion where they gave each person the free plush above. 

It seems they do this just about all of the time-I might go back in the future if I have reason to be in the area at that time.  Even though there is tons of walking involved. 

Thursday, November 11, 2010



Flower print stainless steel flask:  $2 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $14.25)
Pink sequin camouflage stainless steel flask:  $2 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $14.25)
Green sequin camouflage stainless steel flask:  $2 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $14.25) 
Vintage charm hoop earrings:  $2 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $14.25)
Gold metal flower cuff bracelet:  $2 @ Icing by Claire's (RSP:  $12)

I noticed that Claire's was having another 10 for $10 sale, so I knew that Icing would be having a 5 for $10 one.

The last time I went there, I was really interested in buying a leopard print flask.  Sadly, there weren't 4 other items I wanted.  I wasn't going to pay $7 for it alone, so I ended up leaving it there.

Besides, I don't drink, so I didn't think I would have much use for it anyway.  I thought I might put water in it, but I have a larger stainless steel bottle for that.

Flash forward to a few weeks ago.  I was going out for a night on the town, but didn't want to carry that heavy bottle around.  I sure could have used a little something to quench my thirst though, which immediately made my mind wander back to those cute little flasks I saw previously.

So I was really hoping they would have some nice ones when I came back today, and I was not disappointed.  I really struggled to pick the last two items, but ended up deciding on the baubles above.

I can't wear pierced earrings because they always make my ears bleed.  I ended up buying these ones because they had such cute charms on them..the lockets actually open up!  That was the clincher for me.

The other one I eyed in the past, but never had enough items to justify its purchase. 

I would have preferred walking away with 5 flasks, since those seem the most worth it..but I didn't see the point in having doubles.  For better or worse, this is definitely the start of a new love!

Just about all of the other times I've been there, they've always had flasks on clearance.  Most of them have been really gaudy though...I remember seeing these ones in particular.

I really can't imagine any self respecting person using the former!  Ironically, I doubt one who carries that item possesses any of the attributes inscribed thereon. 

I still really wish I could have gotten the leopard one though.  Oh well, maybe next time!

Striped gloves w/lacey spider accents:  $1 @ Claire's (RSP:  $9.75)
4 lens action camera:  $6.49 @ Claire's (RSP:  $25)
Lacey skull clips:  $1 @ Claire's (RSP:  $5.75)

I found the camera the day before.  I had actually seen it months before as well, but never bothered to pick it up.  They took it off the shelves shortly after so I assumed they had all been sold.

I thought it was a neat idea when I first saw it, but it seemed too expensive for such a cheaply made camera.  It's completely made out of plastic and feels like a toy!

I didn't think it was worth the money, but I thought it was a really cool idea so I checked online to see if it could be found any cheaper.

Turns out the cheapest ones are about $10 shipped (though some guy claimed he got one for a buck somehow), so I decided to bite the bullet and get it the next day. 

It feels even cheaper out of the package, but I really like the results I've seen on flickr so far.  I'm pretty sure this will be money well spent!

I just have to find some worthwhile action to capture...most examples I've seen were of things that were almost stationary, resulting in 4 basically identical frames.  I just find that so boring...what's the point in capturing something so redundant? 

Turns out the camera is named Disderi (or Diseri), and comes in a multitude of lens numbers.  Sample pictures and different colours here.

This is the official site, while this offers some information about the cameras.

As for the Halloween things, they ended up being $1 each, so there was no point in taking advantage of the 10 for $10 sale.

I thought the gloves were pretty awesome the first time I saw them-I was actually considering a similar ring I saw the day before, but ended up deciding it wasn't worth it.

This one was definitely worth it-it was a pair of gloves!  Initially I thought it was just the one.

I don't wear hair barrettes, but I thought the above were really cute..in the end, I bought them for my dolls.  My Rovam in particular :3.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010


Crystal deodorant:  $2 @ Dollarama
Faded Glory tights:  $2 @ Dollarama

The tights are technically intended for girls, just like the last Faded Glory item I bought from here.

That one ended up sort of fitting, so hopefully these ones will too!  This was the only colour they had in this size anyway.

If it ends up fitting, I'll have to hunt down the ones in white and brown.  No 12-14's in those colours at this store.

I don't know how much these would normally cost, I just know that I've never seen them that cheap before!

Not that I've been going out of my way to look.  I've noticed them around, and each of them seem to go in the $5+ range. 

I've seen lots of pantyhose type leggings for $1 (and subsequently picked them up), but I haven't seen any of the thicker ones for this low before.  Even the store with the $1 leggings charged at least $5 for the ones made of thicker material!

Saturday, November 6, 2010


Large glass vase:  $.94 @ Superstore (RSP:  $9.99)
Halloween flashlight:  $.24 @ Superstore (RSP:  $1)
Halloween flashlight:  $.24 @ Superstore (RSP:  $1)
Glow in the dark glitter gel:  free @ Superstore (RSP:  $3+)

Small reed diffusers (sweet vanilla, crisp apple):   $.94 each @ Superstore (RSP:  $4.99)
Larger pumpkin vanilla scented diffuser:  $.94 @ Superstore (RSP:  $12.99)

Pretty amazing!  Superstore had all of their Halloween/Fall items priced $.94 or less.

I've always wanted to try out those reed diffusers, but didn't want to pay full price.  I couldn't snatch these ones up fast enough!  The pumpkin ones were gone a few minutes after I saw them.

The glow in the dark glitter gel ended up being free because it scanned in at the wrong price.  At first the cashier just put in a code that was the right price, but I knew I should have gotten it for free due to SCOP.

It was basically free in either case ($.24), but it's just a matter of principle.

Thursday, November 4, 2010


Nylon butterfly wings:  $1.75 @ Value Village (RSP:  $6.99)
Light up shoe laces:  $1 each @ Value Village (RSP:  $3.99)
Knee high socks:  $1 each @ Value Village (RSP:  $3.99)
Socks:  $.38 each @ Value Village (RSP:  $1.49)

I was pretty surprised when I saw the selection today.  Normally, there's barely anything left the day after Halloween, and that's when things are only 50% off!

I never bother to check anymore due to past experiences.  Since I was in the area, I decided to stroll on in..things were 75% off, and there was a pretty decent selection still left!

I grappled with the idea of buying some wigs, but ended up passing on them since they weren't great quality.  Same reason why I'll probably never buy premade costumes...they look so cheap.

I didn't think I would come back with wings either, but I hardly see ones like the above.  Most of the ones are really cheap and glittery, whereas this one is more realistic looking and very striking.

Still about the same quality as the other ones, but I just wanted to have it.  I don't think they're that easy to come by.

They were actually packing away stuff when I was looking around, so I wonder if any of the other ones still have Halloween stock.

I could use more socks!  I haven't gotten any in a long time, and those are things you always need.

Flower bouquet:  $.59 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $5.99)
Polka dot sundae bowls:  $.69 each @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $2)
Flowers in vase:  $3 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $14.96)

Just some more things to spiffy the place up!  

Tuesday, November 2, 2010


Glo bunny headband:  $.39 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $3.99)
Glittery flame pantyhose:  $.49 @ Liquidation World (RSP:  $4.99)

Haven't been here in a while. Wasn't much left, but Halloween stuff was 90% off. Pretty crazy seeing children's costumes for less than $1!

Saturday, October 30, 2010


Light up pitchfork:  $1 @ EFADS
Silver masquerade mask:  $2 @ Dollar Park
Animal shaped soap:  free @ The Body Shop

Last minute Halloween shopping for something that turned out to be a bust.

I'm a sucker for things that light up, so I bought the pitchfork on a whim.  It came with batteries, but they turned out to be dead.  I probably won't ever take it outside, but it amused me.

The mask I bought for a last minute costume.  The feathers used to be in the middle of the mask, but that looked stupid.

The base is surprisingly decent quality for the price.  I thought I might go back for the gold one, but they had them all packed away the next time I went.

The Body Shop was giving away soap on Halloween.  It was advertised in the front window, but you had to go ask for it. 

I got a bear and a rhino, my brother got a turtle and elephant.  Saw a dolphin in the mix but didn't like the color. 

I also ended up getting a sample of one of their creams.  I saw they had a lot of sulphate free shampoos, so I'll probably try one the next time I need shampoo.

I haven't been to that store in decades.  Everything smelled sooo good, and I like how they keep things as natural as possible.  Prices are pretty decent too, so I'll have to go back during a worthwhile sale.

Friday, October 29, 2010



Black quilted purse w/turn lock closure and chain strap:  $3.33 @ Ardene (RSP:  $14.50)
Black circular quilted purse:  $3.33 @ Ardene (RSP:  $14.50)
Black fringe purse w/hook accent:  $3.34 @ Ardene (RSP:  $16.99)
Kroemer soap:  $2 @ Winners (RSP:  $12)

I ended up going to one of the Shoe Warehouses I couldn't get to yesterday.  That one was a bust, but I noticed that the Ardene there was crazy cheap.  It's the first time in a decade I've seen a 10 for $10 sale there!

All shoes, bags, and wallets were priced at 3 for $10.  Sometimes some of the other Ardenes have 3 for $10 sales on their purses, but only on a very small (and usually ugly) selection.

Not this store!  All of their purses were that price, and there was a huge selection. I ended up getting a bunch of purses I had been eyeing for a while.

I really wish I didn't buy this purse since I could have gotten it for half the price if I waited until now!

Soap is from the Winners near the Shoe Warehouse with the ridiculous turnaround time.  It was only clearanced because the music mechanism wasn't working.

I ended up buying it because I like using different soaps, the box was pretty, and I thought I might be able to fix it.  Fixed it, I'm a genius!

I noticed a lot of those soaps came in really gorgeous boxes, and the music box addition is such a cool idea.  I'm just a sucker for pretty things like that.

I never really bothered to before, but I'm definitely going to be checking out that section from now on!  Most of them come in such beautiful boxes, featuring the kind of artwork I adore.

Thursday, October 28, 2010


Betseyville - Lucky - vinyl platform rain boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $149.95)
Extrem - Casciano - purple suede boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $229.95)

Ended up visiting 7 Shoe Warehouses today.  My plan was to go to all of the ones I could get to via public transit-there were actually two more I wanted to go to, but I ended up running out of time.

It ended up being pretty disappointing, slim pickings all around.  Next time I'll attempt this earlier in the sale.

I saw the above at the first two Shoe Warehouses I went to.  There were actually two more boots I wanted to buy, but I didn't want to carry them around-since there were about ten left (in total for both), I didn't think it would be a problem.

When I went back a few hours later, I was horrified to see them completely cleared out-I ended up finding one pair stashed away somewhere.

I thought they had just moved them, but it turns out they were all sold!  It was mind boggling.

Even though they had one color left in the size I prefer, since I saw they had an even bigger size, I didn't want to settle for that one.

I didn't end up seeing them anywhere else (as I thought might happen) so I ended up going back the next day.  Sadly, they were gone.  Oh well, lesson learned. 

I'll admit I ended up going back for the purple boots to lesson the pain of the above. They're my exact shoe size, so they're pretty uncomfortable.

They were just such great quality though (leather, made in Italy) and I don't have any boots in that color, I just had to have them. 

Thursday, October 21, 2010


Roberto Vianni - black peep toe slingbacks:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $69.95)
Vianni Collection - black creased leather boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $229.95)

Turns out my solemate had a partner!  I was beyond happy when I saw them today-only one pair, in the exact size I prefer!

I hadn't seen them anywhere else, but they were still marked at $25.  I knew they could be $15 elsewhere, but I didn't know if they would be available anywhere else.

So I took the plunge and bought them anyway.  They ended up being the right price, so I got them for the same price as the other one.  Hooray!

The other ones are the same style as the one I bought yesterday, but that purchase is of course overshadowed by the one above!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010


Rinaldi - white lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)
Roberto Vianni - peep toe lace up slingbacks:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $69.95)

Upon learning that the half off sale had commenced, I just had to go back to this location and try my luck.

Most of the ones I wanted were still available-including the white boots above.  They're in pretty tried on condition, but hopefully they'll look better after a wipe down.

I remember seeing the slingbacks for $25 at the beginning of my shoe warehouse revival-I'm glad I waited until now to get them!


BeWild - brown fringe lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)
BeWild - black fringe lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)

I'm deliriously happy that I waited until now to get these boots.  The brown ones are pretty ubiquitous, but this was the first time I've encountered their raven counterparts.

After this fiasco, I decided to hold out for size 10's whenever possible.  The biggest size I could find thus far was a 9, so I was starting to think that was the largest one available in this style.


Capa de Ozono - greta - brown leather wedge boots w/flower accents:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $100+)
Roberto Vianni - brown leather boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $189.95)

These were some other boots on my list. I didn't think much of the first pair the first time around, but they ended up growing on me.  I thought the flower detailing was quaint and cute.

The second pair was the one I mentioned here-the nice, though somewhat plain ones.  Both of them were steals since they were made out of leather.

These boots were still there, so I kind of wish I waited.

I'm glad I bought the Sam Edelman boots when I did though, since other pair was long gone.

I actually resolved myself to buying that second pair if they were still here today.  I would have cut the fringes off of that one.  Oh well, c'est la vie!


BeWild - black suede lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)
BeWild - brown suede lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)
BeWild - biege suede lace up boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)

I actually came back for these ones.  It took me a painfully long time to decide, since it was the same kind of deal as the BeWild boots above.

I had looked all over, and could only find these boots in size 9-since these were basically built like runners, I resigned myself to defeat here.

At first it was only the black pair (since I hadn't seen that color elsewhere), but then the other two followed suit.  I really hope I don't see some 10's down the road.

They are all the same style, just different colours.

When I first saw them back in January they were $25, so I'm pretty happy that I could get 3 of them for even less than that now! 

They're really nice quality-probably the best I've seen from this brand so far.

Genuine leather, fully lined with fur on the inside-really warm and comfortable.  I'm also exceedingly partial to the pompoms, and lace up boots are my preference.

I just wonder if they'll go down anymore.  I've pretty much seen this boot at every location I've visited, so they might be around for a while.

I also saw these boots in red for $5.  I thought the cream ones were fabulous, but they struck me as somewhat ugly looking in red.

It was an incredibly unflattering, pinkish red-each pair also had a mysterious stain on the same side, which made it even easier to pass up.

Also passed on these Rinaldi boots in black, two other pairs of leather boots, and three other boots.  See, I can restrain myself a little!

Admittedly, I would have bought one of those boots if they were size 10's.

It was such a shame...they were low heeled and had such a cute design-also remarkably uncomfortable considering they were supposedly bigger than my actual size.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010


BeWild - black patent boots w/buckle detail:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $70+)

Finally, final clearance time!  All clearanced items are now half off.

I saw these boots back when they were $25...I wanted them then, but I'm really glad I waited. 

I thought they would work out to $12.50-imagine my delight when they were marked down once again when I arrived!

I still lament this purchase though-two more pairs there, I definitely could have gotten them for $5 instead.

Oh well.  The rest of this week will be filled with more Shoe Warehouse trips! 

I hope there'll still be something left.  The first two I went to today were pretty cleared out, compared to the selection from a week ago.

I'm extremely happy that I ended up buying these boots when I did-especially the cognac boots. 

I'm pretty sure the timing was a mistake, since the sale was 'over' when I went back a few days later. 

They had about 4 pairs the last time I checked, but none to be found when I went today.  I would have been pretty upset if I couldn't get them, they're my favourite pair so far!

Monday, October 11, 2010


Sam Edelman - Uri - camel - tan suede over the knee boot:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $268.95)
Roberto Vianni - brown leather boots with button detail:   $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $179.95)

Today was a very sobering experience.  I was confronted with something I've never experienced before-a literal windfall of boots in my size and preferred price range!

There were seriously 15 pairs of boots that I would probably have snatched up if I found them at different times.  Due to the copious amount of boots I've gotten of late, I decided it was time to be more judicial with my boot purchases from now on.

In the end, I just walked away with the above two.  Just had to go for the Uri boots again, the quality is amazing and the style isn't common.  Also, I kind of like knowing I own something that Mischa Barton and other 'celebrities' own. 

The second ones aren't that exceptional overall, but I liked the quality.  Leather, simple design, somewhat stylish, unusual heel I don't have yet (a bit tapered in the middle), nice, classy, and comfortable on.

The rest were easy to pass up because they were either uncomfortable, nothing special design wise, made of cheap feeling material, or just not made of leather.

I actually did pass up a pair of brown leather boots that I thought were quite nice, but there were pretty plain.  They were comfortable and looked good though, so I might go back once their half off sale starts.

Now that my closet is pretty much hemorrhaging boots, I'll probably only be buying leather boots that are significantly different from the pairs I already have.

Though....I might still be taking home some of the aforementioned rejects when they're half off! 

The stylish, not so comfortable ones.  At the very least, I would enjoy looking at them, and wearing them for short periods of time!

Sunday, October 10, 2010


Vianni Collection - brown suede boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $189.95)
Vianni Collection - black suede boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $189.95)

I was really busy today!

The above are the same, just in different colours.  Two different sizes too.  I would have preferred a size smaller for the black ones, but that was all they had.

Now I wish I bought the brown ones a size bigger!  I found them in that size at another Shoe Warehouse I went to....still might get them.

The heels are only about an inch, so the boots are pretty comfortable.  Especially since they're larger than my actual size.

Genuine suede too, so they were a total steal.


Rinaldi - dark burgundy boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $69.95)
Steve Madden - Sergeant - black platform boots:   $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $159.95)

I love Steve Madden!  I snatched these up the moment I saw them.  I would prefer if they weren't made of nylon (as I prefer leather like materials), but I'm a sucker for lace up boots.

The other ones I just bought to round out my purchases.  Now I kind of regret it (more in the next post), since the quality really isn't that great.  Pretty cheap feeling pvc (not the worst I've seen), but I thought it looked nice enough on.

















HP pink plaid netbook:  $53.60 @ Future Shop (RSP:  $379.99)
Hello Kitty mouse:  $2.26 off Ebay

This was my birthday gift from my family-I waited about a month for this.  The netbook, not the mouse.

I'm not really fond of hello kitty, but I wanted a cute, pink, mouse.  This one was the cutest, and also the cheapest, hence my acquisition of it.  It actually ended up being way better than expected-lights up and everything!  

I bought the mouse myself in anticipation of receiving the netbook..had it a good two weeks before I actually received said netbook.

It had to be this one!  I love pink, and this is the prettiest netbook I've seen.  Bonus points for pink plaid, minus points for the shade discrepancy (it's really more purple on the cover, though the inside is a lovely, solid, pink).

Throughout the past two months, they ran through several promotions/price ranges-there were a few times where I almost took the plunge but bailed in the last minutes.  Each time, I decided to wait until a better deal came around.

Well, it finally came!  I checked out Best Buy's website on a whim one day, and noticed it was finally on sale for $299.99!

Naturally, I assumed that Future Shop would follow suite since they are owned by the same company.  Sadly (or so I thought) that wasn't the case.

Long story short, I ended up getting a price match, plus another eight bucks off due to their lowest price guarantee.

With the gift card my mom redeemed from her credit card (which was free), and another free $25 visa gift card, the total ended up being a whopping $53.60 out of pocket.  Totally unimaginable, incredibly delirium inducing.

Saturday, October 9, 2010


Leopard print studded chain purse:  $5.75 @ Ardene (RSP:  $11.50)

I barely shop at Ardene.  Most of the time I find their merchandise expensive and cheaply made.

This one was no exception, except I really loved the style.  Such a shame that the pleather is such crappy quality...feels like electrical tape.  Seriously.

For that quality, I really wouldn't want to pay more than $4 for it.  I've gotten way better purses at Claire's for half the price!

Well, I ended up getting it anyway, since I liked the style that much.

I'm not too crazy about the strap coming up through the top though...I'm thinking about restringing it to come out through the sides.

The purses they offer are probably the crappiest quality items they have there.  Probably on par with dollar store stuff, I don't see purses that poor that often. 

I remember they used to have 10 for $10 sales once in a blue moon, but I haven't seen one in almost a decade!  I wonder if they discontinued them.

I prefer Claire's on all levels.  Their stock seems to change more often, the quality is much better, and they're always better priced in the end.

Friday, October 8, 2010


Sam Edelman - Uri - roasted chestnut - brown suede over the knee boot:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $268.95)
Vianni Collection - black leather/nylon boots:  $5 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $229.95)
Vianni Collection - cognac creased leather boots:  $7.50 @ Shoe Warehouse (RSP:  $229.95)

I had such a crappy day today-little did I know how much better it would get that night!

I decided to go to this one on a whim-I actually went to the mall for an entirely different reason.  Well, turns out the timing was right!

They had just marked the above down yesterday, while the new half off sale commenced today!  I doubt these would have been left if I came any later.

They actually weren't even on the shelves yet!  I almost missed them, they were stacked in a corner on one of the sides. 

The Sam Edelman boots were actually still on the top shelves-I had to ask a sales associate to bring them down.

They're probably the best quality boots I have so far-I was really impressed by them!  The insoles are cushioned to a pretty insane degree, and there are just a lot of nice little details I don't see in many other brands.  Genuine leather, a total steal at $5!  

Definitely my best deal so far.  Pretty odd sizing though-9.5.  Haven't seen that around very often, and currently my only one so far.

The second one is the same as the one I bought previously.  I bought them again because these were slightly bigger-40, while the first ones were 39.

The first ones were comfortable, but these ones were even moreso!  For only $5, I just couldn't pass them up.  

Then, the last boots...those are the most beautiful boots I've ever seen!

When I first saw them, they were $50.  Genuine leather and gorgeous, I was almost tempted to pay that price...but decided that I'd wait until they were $25 or so.

Well, I never saw them go down to $25.  I didn't see them for a long time, so I thought someone else had already snatched them up.  Imagine my surprise (and delight) today when I saw them for $15, with no markdowns in between!  

That would have been enough of a steal, but $7.50 was just unfathomable.  My dream shoes for that cheap!  I had my choice out of a few sizes, so I ended up getting the biggest one (41).

Realllly comfortable, and they only had one at that size. A couple of 39's too, which I probably would have settled for if my fortune wasn't as good today.

I'm almost tempted to go back and buy a 'back up' pair, but I probably won't.  Probably.