Thursday, July 3, 2014

Holiday Heating Up with Summer's Semi-Annual Sales

Womens Gloriee

Happy Fourth of July Weekend! On July 4th, my father-in-law always used to sigh and say, "Ah, well, the dear old summer is over." It always got a laugh from the family. For me, July 4th always feels like the start of the summer, especially the beach season. This weekend, the family is gathering at the beach house and I'm looking forward to several days of barbecuing and sailing and probably a few fireworks. Since I'm usually the first one to rise in the morning, I also intend to go online and take advantage of some of the super Fourth of July sales. Traditionally, this weekend kicks off semi-annual sales. Clothing companies are anxious to unload their spring/summer inventory to make room for the fall fashions. Take for instance, the Madden Girl Gloriee from Shiekh Shoes (above). Right now, the patriotic pair of sneakers is 35% off (was $39.99, now $29.99). A 35% off sale is very nice, but I'm seeing lots of clothing and accessory sites with up to 70% off the next few days.

FILLING IN THE SUMMER WARDROBE
I rarely buy summer fashions during the spring months. In fact, if possible, I like to hold off till July 4th weekend to fill in my summer wardrobe. I know I'll get a lot more for my clothing allowance if I wait till now.

This weekend, I'll be checking out the sales at my favorite department stores--Nordstrom's, Macy's and Lord and Taylor. I'll also be visiting the online sites of small clothing companies that are known for nicely made, moderate priced clothing. Here's a work outfit I wore earlier this week in celebration of Independence Day. The outfit comprises of garments from three of my favorite clothing companies--Ann Taylor (the skirt), The Loft (the V-neck sweater) and Banana Republic (the white tank).





3 FAVORITE SITES AND CURRENT SALES
Ann Taylor ~ I've been shopping AT since high school. However, a haven't always been loyal. A few of the clothing line's reinventions over the past 20 years haven't appealed to me. A year ago, however, an over 50 girlfriend encouraged me to try AT again. Since then, I've found several well-made, unique skirts and sweaters there. Take a peek at AT's semi-annual sale at...





Banana Republic ~ I have always had great shopping luck with BR, in terms of finding clothing that is well-made,  well-priced and that fits well, especially sale styles. I've bought tops, sweaters and dresses by the company. My favorite: the dresses. However...the BR dresses tend to be short. They work for me because I'm petite. Women over 50 who need a longer dress length might do better at Shop Jones New York. I do recommend you take a peek at the BR tops and sweaters, though, especially now while the company is offer 40% off your purchase.  Click on the BR logo below to learn more about the current sale.





LOFT ~ As I'm sure you know, Ann Taylor's more modest-priced sister shop is The Loft. I've gotten some very nice wardrobe basics, like the navy V-neck sweater above, at very reasonable prices. Right now, the LOFT is offering 60% off Sale Styles. Shop from 7/3 10a EST - 7/6 11:59p EST


Needless to say, there are many more sales going on this weekend. Be sure to google your favorite shopping sites to see what their offering. Or for a dozen or so other sales, click Flattering50's On Sale page.


Meanwhile...the patriotic shoes at the top of the post can't be yours for this holiday weekend. However, sneakers are trending big time right now and I'm sure they'll still be in vogue next Memorial Day and 4th of July. Personally, I have my eye on the patriotic pair ($55) below. Unfortunately, they're not on sale, but I think they would be fun to wear with a white pencil skirt...next year.



Unisex Chuck Taylor Ox

Converse Chuck Taylor Ox flag




Are you planning to shop the holiday sales this weekend? If so and you find a good sale or two, please share it in the comment section.

THANKS AND A HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!