Fill the GAP

I have to say of all the store credit cards to have, I'm most pleased with the Gap Company, Inc. Not only because they own several companies (namely Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime, and Athleta), but because their credit card really does pay back.

Case in point...Did you know by using your Gap, BR, or Old Navy card you:

• Earn 5 reward points for every dollar spent at any of their 5 owned companies, which in turn results in point accumulations, which give you $$ back for purchases. For example, 1,000 reward points gives you a $10 Reward Card.
• And since it's a VISA, you also get 1 reward point for every dollar spent anyplace VISA is accepted!
  
• You can often get free shipping online (spending at least a certain amount) using the card.
• EVERY Tuesday, cardholders get 10% off any online order!
  

I have to say, it pays to use the card- and if you like the Gap Company brands as much as I do, it's worth just getting the card, paying it off (interest rates are silly)...and rack up those reward cards!

couches, tables and chairs, oh my!

Thanks to a tip from a faithful reader, I was informed that January (and August) boast some stellar sales in the furniture stores.

Apparently this is a prime time to change stock for the newest season, so if you're looking for a new chair, an ottoman for that chair, tables, couches...wait until January, and watch the sales. They promise to be discounted anywhere from 30-50% off- which helps after you've just emptied your wallet at the holidays!

Also, pay attention to those "pay as you go" deals- if you're making a big ticket purchase, they can be helpful, but watch the interest rates. Lots of dealers will offer 0% APR in the new year, but make sure it's not for a limited time (like 6 months) which expires and then you're paying crazy high rates once the 6 months are up.

I've recently been browsing Ballard Designs' website: great combinations of classic styles with some interesting patterns. Maybe it's time I invest in my favorite pieces of furniture...

Sleighbells Ring, Are You Listenin' ?

Clearly it's been a busy holiday season since I haven't had a moment to blog since Thanksgiving!
Hopefully some of my previous posts served you well as you ventured out to find the perfect gift for your loved ones.

I'd like to take a moment to appreciate the season for sparkle...or as some of my co-workers like to say shimmeration...you know what I mean- sequins, crystals, glitter, rhinestones...it's all in the category of shimmeration. And folks, this is the time of year to wear it with pride!

My friend Crista is having a little holiday gathering this weekend, and I loved that her evite included an invitation to wear sparkle! Seriously, if not at the holidays, when else can you wear such fun, festive attire without feeling like a total fool? So, I'd like to give a shout out to the shimmeration attire of the world, and encourage us all to pull out those "over the top" pieces- whether clothing, accessories, shoes, whatever!- and sparkle with pride.

Here's a few of my favorite sparklers of the season:
The Sequin Sparkle Tank: I bought this in the camel color (which may no longer be available) but it's the perfect combination of sparkle and conservative fit.
The Sequin Tiered Ruffle Tank: I love that this has both the combination of ruffle and subtle sequins...and for under $50, not a bad deal.
Sequin Scarf Cardigan: I adore how the cardigan has this built in shimmeration around the collar that imitates a scarf- and it's so soft and cuddly. Worth the splurge!
Crystal Supernova Bracelet: Can you get more sensational than something named a "Crystal Supernova"?? So lovely...
Stormy Sea Necklace: I saw a woman try this on in the dark yellow with a grey lace dress, and it looked AMAZING on. Something about the way the stones pick up the skin's natural pink undertones. Really really pretty.
Glam Leaf Earrings: Do you need any other reason to feel glamorous for the holidays? And on SALE!

Shine on, my friends!