The651.com

It’s the week after Christmas, and you know what that means – tons of sales and shopping.

WEEK OF DECEMBER 27-JANUARY 2:

Stephanie’s Winter Sale
What: St. Paul trendy women’s boutique Stephanie’s is kicking off their winter sale this week. The progressive sale means the more you buy, the more you save. Buy one item, get 20 percent off; buy two and get 30 percent off; and buy three or more and get 40 percent off, on lines such as Yumi Kim, Nicole Miller, Tibi and Voile. (Not valid with other offers.) -Jahna Peloquin
When: Ongoing through January 31.
Where: Stephanie’s, 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

Flirt’s Semi-Annual Sale
What: Parisian-styled lingerie boutique Flirt is kicking off their semi-annual sale. Pick-up some cutesy bras, silky jams and comfy undies all at 40% off from select brands like Mimi Holliday, Blush, Betsey Johnson, Rosy and more. Shop early for best selection. -Lauren Gantner
When: Ongoing through January 9.
Where: Flirt, 177 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, 651-698-3692, www.flirt-boutique.com

Through Monday: Len Druskin Week of Savings Sale
What: Local shop Len Druskin is having a massive post-Christmas sale that beats all others in scope and size. Five (count ‘em, FIVE) of the store’s locations are participating, including LEN at Rosedale, are offering a week of specials and special events, including 25 percent off already marked down merchandise. Generally, LEN stocks special purchase merchandise. (The sale is not at the full-price stores in the Galleria and Gaviidae.) -J.P.
When: Sunday, December 26-Monday, January 3.
Where: LEN at Rosedale, Roseville, 651-233-2410, www.shoplen.com and www.lendruskin.com

Patina Clearance Sale
What: Holiday and seasonal merchandise will be 50 percent of at Patina stores starting the day after Christmas. Stop back on Tuesday, December 28 for a broader selection of winter clearance merchandise.
When: Stores open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, December 26; ongoing
Where: All Patina locations including 2057 Ford Pkwy., St. Paul, 651-695-9955, www.patinastores.com

Bibelot Clearance Sale
What: Gift shop Bibelot is offering 50 percent off holiday merchandise.
When: Starts 11 a.m. Sunday, December 26; ongoing
Where: All Bibelot locations including 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-290-9745 & 2276 Como Ave., St. Paul, 651-646-5651, www.bibelotshops.com

December Deals at FiveTwoSix Salon
What: Every month, St. Paul salon FiveTwoSix – which was recently named one of the top 100 salons in America by Elle Magazine – has tons of ways to keep you pretty with great deals and promos. This month, buy one of any product and get 10 percent off; buy two, get 15 percent off; buy three, get 20 percent off.
Plus get your winter hair fix with Bumble & Bumble’s Wear and Care Quenching Treatment; the line starts at $35, and you can take 20 percent off when you invest in all four treatments from the line. For your dry skin fix, take in a winter skin spa treatment from Dermalogica; get a 30 minute treatment for only $35, and take home its Smooth and Renew kit with free travel size samples for only $36 ($66 value). More deals running through the month: get a free 4 oz. Bumble & Bumble hairspray with a Messy or Dressy production collection purchase; free makeup touch-ups from Smashbox Cosmetics after any hair or spa appointment; and if you refer three people to your stylist, you’ll receive a free haircut, and they’ll receive a complimentary Bumble & Bumble product. -L.G.
When: Through December.
Where: 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-3839, 526salon.com

Content shared with l’etoile magazine

This week in St. Paul shopping and style, check out Bibelot Night Out!, a sale at A. Michele boutique, and a rare jewelry sale at the Grand Hand, and visit the Goldstein for their latest exhibitions, “Flights of Fancy: A History of Feathers in Fashion” and “Off the Top of My Head: Hat Habitats.”

Thursday: Bibelot Night Out!
What: Want a little bonus with your gift shopping? Head to locally-owned gift chain Bibelot’s Grand Avenue location for its Bibelot Night Out! Event. Spin the wheel to receive up to 30 percent off your purchase, a $10 gift card, a gift bag, a bracelet, or a Punch Pizza gift card. Plus you can score a Punch Pizza coupon simply by coming through the door. -Jahna Peloquin
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 8.
Where: Bibelot, 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-290-9745, www.bibelotshops.com

Saturdays & Sundays: Stephanie’s Summer Savings Sale
What: Every weekend through Labor Day, Stephanie’s Summer Savings Sale offers sidewalk deals of 70 percent off with racks replenished weekly. In addition, all regularly priced merchandise is 10 percent off, and items already 40 percent off an extra 10 percent off.
When: Weekends through Labor Day
Where: Stephanie’s, 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

A. Michele Summer Sale
What: Score some threads for the beach, BBQ or birthday party at charming Selby & Snelling boutique A. Michele for the month of July. The blowout sale features brands such as BB Dakota, Miss Me and Joie marked down to $25, $40, $50 and $75. Best of all, receive a $75 store credit for every $250 spent throughout the month! Get in sooner than later – sizes are limited. -Jahna Peloquin
When: Through July.
Where: A. Michele, 1591 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-917-6966, www.amichele.wordpress.com

Picky Girl Summer Sale
What: Head to Picky Girl on Grand Avenue in St. Paul for new markdowns on select spring and summer items. Plus for a limited time, take 25 percent off all regular priced items. Look for national brands like Kensie Girl and Covet, and local designs from Calpurnia Peach, Carmichael Claith and Rapport handbags. -Jahna Peloquin (Pictured: Carmichael Claith)
When: Ongoing.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-698-4107, www.pickygirlmn.com

Beginning Tuesday: Grand Hand Summer Jewelry Sale
What: St. Paul art and gift boutique only has a couple sales a year, so they’re can’t-miss opportunities to score some handmade, one of a kind pieces. Their summer jewelry sale features such artisans as Cheryl Rydmark, Ford and Forlano, Terri Logan, Karin Jacobson, Baharal + Gnida, JL Walsh, Cynthia Jones, Sharon Schafner, Erika Sturm, MIO Studio, M.A.D.E, JacQueline Sanchez, Wiwat Kamolpornwijit, and Bee Design – all marked down 25 to 50 percent off. Hurry in for the best selection, as quantities are limited. -Jahna Peloquin
When: Tuesday, June 29-Sunday, July 11.
Where: Grand Hand Gallery, 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-312-1122, www.thegrandhand.com

FIVETWOSIX Salon July Promotions
What: St. Paul salon always has a ton of deals that are hard to pass up. Here’s what they have going on for the month of July: Try out the new MicroZone skin treatment for a discount – now through July, a 20 minute treatment is only $20 (regularly priced at $30). That includes rapid spot removal, blackhead relief, hand repair, flash exfoliation and more. Buy all five products from the new Dermalogica facial skin treatments Ultracalming line – clinically proven to reduce redness and sooth irritation – and get 15 percent off the entire purchase. Also through July, take 15 percent off a Smashbox makeup application (regularly priced at $45) and receive a free Smashbox gift. Right now, buy two Bumble & Bumble products, get a free Spray du Mode free. The multi-dimensional styling tool offers a flexible hold and quick-drying finish. ($25 value; excludes 2 oz. products.) If you recommend there of your pals to FiveTwoSix, you can receive a free haircut of your own. Or to save some bucks, a haircut with a stylist in training is only $15.
When: Through the month of July.
Where: 526 Salon Spa Gallery, 526 Selby Ave, St. Paul, 651-222-3839, www.526salon.com

Ongoing: Patina Summer Sale
What: Local gift shop Patina is slashing prices for its annual summer sale, both in-store and in its e-shop. Take up to 50 percent off in-store and up to 70 percent off online on items including furniture (in-store only), candles, jewelry and accessories, gadgets, home decor, kitchen goods and more. -Jahna Peloquin
When: Ongoing.
Where: www.patinastores.com; 1581 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-644-5444; Highland Park: 2057 Ford Pkwy., St. Paul, 651-695-9955, www.patinastores.com

Thrifty Thursdays at Arc’s
What: Thursdays may be the new day to hit the thrift circuits, thanks to Thrifty Thursdays at Arc’s Value Village through the month of July. Take 25 percent off everything (including gently-used designer, vintage and contemporary clothing, housewares and more) at the store’s four Metro area locations. And whenever you shop at Arc’s Value Village, you know you’re giving back to the community – with every purchase, Arc’s donates money toward children and adults suffering from intellectual and developmental disabilities. -Jahna Peloquin
When: Thursday, June 3-Thursday, July 29.
Where: Arc’s Value Village, four area locations including 1650 White Bear Ave., St. Paul, 651-788-8300, www.arcsvaluevillage.org.

Ongoing: “Flights of Fancy: A History of Feathers in Fashion”
What: This Friday marks the opening of the Goldstein Museums newest exhibit: Flights of Fancy. With the help of the local Raptor Center and the Bell Museum, curators at the Goldstein have brought together a fluffy showcase of feathers and flair from fashion legends like Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, Victor Costa and more. This exhibit will dive into the feathery styles of western culture, starting from feathers in nature to the appeal of feathers on clothing. -Lauren Gantner (Image: Oscar de La Renta)
When: Exhibition runs through September 12.
Where: Goldstein Museum, 241 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul, 612-624-7434, goldstein.che.umn.edu

Ongoing: “Off the Top of My Head: Hat Habitats”
What: We’ve always thought a hat finishes off any great ensemble, but it took awhile for the rest of the fashionable flock to catch on. Now, thanks to a resurgence in interest in mid-century fashion, hats are back in a big way. In a nod to the trend, the University of Minnesota’s Goldstein Museum of Design is opening up its vaults for this new exhibition in tribute to the hat. It features the hat-inspired works of artists Cynthia Rapacz and Ryan Haro in mediums from photography and design to fashion and architecture. -Jahna Peloquin
When: Ongoing through September 3.
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 1985 Upper Buford Ave., St. Paul, 612-624-7434, goldstein.che.umn.edu.

Content shared with l’etoile magazine.

MNfashion Week is one of our favorite times of the year. When else can you have so many stylish events packed in a one-week period? Of course, this spring it’s more like MNfashion Month, with fashion shows and events happening throughout the month of April. There’s so much going on, we can understand if you feel overwhelmed – so to help you out, we’re highlighting the must-be-at events in St. Paul, as well as offering a comprehensive listing of the rest.

WEEK OF APRIL 19-25:

Christopher Straub Premier Collection (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Former Project Runway contestant Christopher Straub has kept himself very busy since appearing on the sixth season (and coming in fourth) of the reality show. He opened an e-shop, announced an accessories line for ShopNBC, created a dress out of packaging from the Project Runway Wii game, and will be participating in Voltage as a handbag designer for PFT Couture and Emma Berg’s lines. This spring, he’s showcasing his very first full men’s and women’s clothing collections (accompanied by accessories, of course). Tickets are $15 to $50 and available online at www.vitalculture.com. (Pictured: A sketch from Christopher Straub’s Spring 2010 collection.)
When: 4-8 p.m. (5:30 p.m. show.) Sunday, April 25.
Where: Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul. www.christopherstraub.com

Saturday: A Man’s Show (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Guys don’t ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities. Free, but be sure to RSVP at event@detailsmn.com.
When: 8-10 p.m. Saturday, April 24. (Pictured: A spring look from Elsworth; photo by Chris McDuffie.)
Where: Lowry Theater, 16 W. 5th St., St. Paul. Details Style Lab: 651-251-8700. www.detailsmn.com

Thursday-Tuesday: “The Office on Film” (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Presented in conjuction with the Goldstein’s current exhibition, “How Secretaries Changed the 20th Century Office: Design, Image, and Culture,” this film series highlights secretaries’ role in the working world over the years. Tuesday evening, the series kicks off with Skyscraper Souls, set during the market crash in the 1930s as romantic and financial entanglements provide the backdrop to costumes that range from day to evening. On Wednesday, Joan Crawford stars as a tough lady-boss in 1950s-era The Best of Everything. The series finishes off with over-the-top big-hair ‘80s classic Nine to Five – that’s right, the one starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Free. (Pictured: Joan Crawford in The Best of Everything.)
When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 20-Thursday, April 22.
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 32 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul. 612-624-7434. www.goldstein.design.umn.edu

Saturday & Sunday: Bibelot Spring Sale
What: Locally-owned gift and accessory shop Bibelot is hosting its spring sale at all four locations and its e-shop. Take 20 percent off storewide on jewelry, gifts, clothing and stationary, and get a $10 gift card when you spend $100 or more. (Pictured: Anne Garrison moon earrings.)
When: Saturday, April 24 & Sunday, April 25.
Where: Grand Avenue: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321. Como: 2276 Como Avenue St. Paul, 651-646-5651. www.bibelotshops.com

Thursday: Shop Local at Picky Girl (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl showcases its collection of local designer wares at its MNfashion Week event – including our favorite local design duo, Calpurnia Peach. The whimsical clothing line for the girly-girl with good taste and a heart for story-telling features original hand-drawn screenprints in a bright sherbert color palette. Other local lines featured include handbags by Nelle, Post-, and Rapport, and accessories Julian Capelle and Perfect Pumps, with complimentary drinks and apps from D’Amico. The event also doubles as the launch of the “Picky Perks” card: With a $100 purchase of regular-priced merchandise, you’ll receive a Picky Perks card good toward future purchases. Simply present the card with each visit and receive 10 percent off all regular-priced merchandise (good through one year), and 25 percent off any purchase during your birthday week. (Pictured: A Spring 2010 look by Calpurnia Peach; photo by Lauren Gantner.)
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107. www.pickygirlmn.com

Thursday: Carrie Cordelia Handbags Trunk Show (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Check out the new handbag line by Carrie Cordelia at this launch party and trunk show at W7 Collective. The line incorporates a creative application of high-tech fabrics and traditional materials, with designs incorporating feminine silhouettes and a gender-neutral aesthetic that should appeal to women and men alike. While you’re there, enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and wine, and if you RSVP to the show, you’ll receive a discount card for 20 percent off at the event.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: W7 Collective, Pilney Building, 1032 7th St. W., St. Paul. www.w7collective.com

Spring Promotions at FiveTwoSix Salon & Spa
What: Mark your calendars for May 1 and make a date with Mom: FiveTwoSix Salon & Spa will be hosting a Smashbox Saturday event just in time for Mother’s Day. For $75, you’ll get a makeup application redeemable for Smashbox product, a photo session, a printed photo and refreshments. (9 a.m.-4 p.m. Also May 8. Appointment required.) Now through May 8, buy a $50 gift card and receive a travel bag and two free 2-oz. samples of Bumble & Bumble product. Also while supplies last, buy a Dermalogica Daily Microfolian and receive a travel size Special Cleansing Gel and Active Moist for only $50 (an $80.50 value) – and through May, receive 10 percent off all Dermalogica products. Looking to try out a new stylist on the cheap? FiveTwoSix’s stylists-in-training program offers haircuts starting at $15. Finally, for every three people you refer to your stylist, you’ll receive a free haircut – and each referred person receives a complimentary Bumble & Bumble product.
When: Ongoing through May.
Where: FiveTwoSix Salon Spa & Gallery, 529 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839. www.526salon.qwestoffice.net.

BlackBlue Winter Sale + New Spring Offerings
What: BlackBlue has finally made the full transition into Spring. The hot men’s shop has just received shipments from Original Penguin and Hyden Yoo, in addition to Fred Perry, Shades of Greige, Tretorn, and more styles of Red Wing Boots as well as a fresh stock of A.P.C. denim in both the New and Petit Standard. While you’re there, fall clothing at men’s boutique BlackBlue has just recently undergone another round of markdowns with some items over 50 percent off. Brands include: F-Trope, Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul. www.blkblu.com.

Friday: Elinor Grand Opening
What: St. Paul welcomes a brand new boutique, featuring the work of area fiber artists and jewelers (many of whom can typically be found at juried art fair venues such as the American Craft Council Show). Pieces ranging from sophisticated and sleek to whimsical and eclectic. Meet the artists, or swing by over the weekend during the St. Paul Art Crawl.
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, April 23. Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, April 24. 12-5 p.m. Sunday, April 25.
Where: Elinor, 1559 Randolph Ave., St. Paul, 651-771-1791, http://elinor7.wordpress.com

Saturday & Sunday: Wearable Art Midwest at St. Paul Art Crawl
What: WAM (Wearable Art Midwest) collective capitalizes on the St. Paul Art Crawl this weekend with a sale featuring more than a dozen local designers and artisans showcasing handmade fashions and artwear. Everything from clothing, accessories, hats, bags, jewelry, scarves and more will be for sale, and many of the items are made from repurposed and recycled materials.
When: Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, April 24 & noon-5 p.m. Sunday, April 25.
Where: Downtown Embassy Suites, 175 E. 10th St., St. Paul, http://www.facebook.com/wearable.art.midwest

Content shared with the651.com partner l’étoile magazine.

As local shops clear our their winter stocks at huge discounts, they’re also adding incentives to shop for spring with limited-time discounts, deals and shopping events. Check out our comprehensive sales and shopping guide – updated weekly – for deals and other fun shopping-related events at the Twin Cities’ hippest shopping destinations.

WEEK OF MARCH 29-APRIL 4:

Wednesday: Soundrelle’s Keep Open House
What: Local neo-Victorian designer Heather Luca is inviting her customers (and the curious) into her world. View the spring 2010 collection by the custom couturier, which incorporates steampunk and corsetry elements, exquisite leatherwork, and romantic ruffled blouses, and see where the magic happens.
When: 6-10 p.m. Wednesday, March 31.
Where: 2500 University Ave., Ste. C12, St. Paul. www.scoundrelleskeep.com.

Saturday: Duckie Uglings Trunk Show
What: We have to admit, we’re not grownups when it comes to loving cute things, particularly when it comes in the form of adorable, locally-made, handcrafted plush toys (with a side of creepy) like Duckie Uglings. The designer of the plush, Rebecca Jo Malmstrom, will be showing off her latest creations at this trunk show – just in time for for you to fill the Easter basket of your favorite niece or nephew. Or, check out her Etsy shop.
When: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday, April 3.
Where: Bibelot, 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321. www.bibelotshops.com.

Through Saturday: Picky Girl Spring Sale
What: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl still has a winter clearance section stocked with items marked up to 70 percent off. Mention you’re a facebook friend, and receive 25 percent off all regularly-priced clothing through April 3 – including new spring collections from national lines Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach.
When: Through Saturday, April 3.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.

Through Wednesday: Meet the Experts at Juut Salonspa
What: Get a taste of spring makeup trends – and learn how to properly apply a cat is eye or the season’s strong lip – this month at Juut Salonspa. Juut makeup artists, including esteemed makeup artist Janell Geason, will teach the tricks of the trade. The registration fee of $100 with Geason and $35 with other artists is fully redeemable in Aveda makeup and skincare products the day of the event.
When: Various dates through March 31.
Where: Juut Salonspa at Victoria Crossing: 857 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-4121. At Rosedale Center: 2480 Fairview Ave. N., Roseville. 651-639-0576. www.juut.com.

Through Wednesday: Smashbox Promotion at FiveTwoSix
What: Did you hear? FiveTwoSix Salon in St. Paul now carries Smashbox Cosmetics. To celebrate, they’re offering a makeup application for only $32, which then applies toward any Smashbox purchase.
When: Through March 31.
Where: FiveTwo Six Salon and Gallery, 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839.

Through Wednesday: Bibelot Special Offer
What: If you bring any gently-used clothing donations to any of Bibelot‘s four Twin Cities locations, receive a coupon for 20 percent off any regularly-priced clothing items. All donations will go to Arc’s Value Village.
When: Ongoing through March 31.
Where: Bibelot: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-0321; 4315 Upton Ave., Mpls. 612-925-3175; 300 E. Hennepin. Ave., Mpls.. 612-379-9300; 2276 Como Ave., St. Paul. 651-646-5651.

BlackBlue Shoe Sale
What: UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. They’re also offering 20 to 50 percent off on select fall/winter 2009 clothing and footwear. Brands include: Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn. While you’re there, check out the new spring arrivals.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul. www.blkblu.com.

Content shared with the651.com partner l’étoile magazine.

As local shops clear our their winter stocks at huge discounts, they’re also adding incentives to shop for spring with limited-time discounts, deals and shopping events. This week, check out the Vinyl Record Sale, new receipts by kjurek couture at Karma, and ongoing sales at BlackBlue, Stephanie’s, Picky Girl and more:

FRIDAY-SUNDAY: Vinyl Record Sale
When Jake Rudh recommends something, we know to pay attention. The Transmission DJ claims a quarter of its collection is from these guys, so you know they’re the real deal. The monolithic vinyl record sale from the owner of now-defunct but much-beloved Let It Be Records and vinyl sellers Go Johnny Go and Riffs-Ahoy happens this weekend for the second time in 2010. The trio will offer up their sweet collections, capitalizing on the latest wave of vinyl fanaticism. To get you through the weekend, they’ve enlisted a series of local DJs (specializing in vinyl, natch) including Phil Borreson of Radio K’s Last Year’s Model (4-6 p.m. Fri.), Chuck Tomlinson of Radio K’s Cosmic Slop (11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat.), Glen Leslie of KFAI’s Jet Set Planet (3-5 p.m. Sat.), and our pal Tim Ritter of Bella Koshka and Blue Sky Blackout (2-4 p.m. Sun.) (4-10 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. Noon-4 p.m. Sun. Free. Carleton Lofts, 2285 University Ave., St. Paul. Click here for the facebook event page.)

[Art by Nora Alice Dombrock]

[kjurek couture Spring 2010/Photo by Loren Kollmar]

Karma Winter Sale & kjurek couture Spring 2010 launches
Grand Avenue boutique Karma is taking 25 percent off everything in the store, including regular priced items and spring arrivals, and an additional 25 percent off sale items. While you’re there, check out the new spring collection of dresses by local line kjurek couture by Kimberly Jurek. (Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-291-1997.)

Smashbox Promotion at FiveTwoSix
Did you hear? FiveTwoSix Salon in St. Paul now carries Smashbox Cosmetics. To celebrate, they’re offering a makeup application for only $32, which then applies toward any Smashbox purchase through the month of March. (FiveTwo Six Salon and Gallery, 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839.)

Bibelot Special Offer
If you bring any gently-used clothing donations to any of Bibelot‘s four Twin Cities locations, receive a coupon for 20 percent off any regularly-priced clothing items. All donations will go to Arc’s Value Village. (Through March 31. Bibelot: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-0321; 2276 Como Ave., St. Paul. 651-646-5651.)

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (Ongoing while supplies last. Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

Winter Sale at Stephanie’s
Highland Park boutique Stephanie’s is taking 50 to 70 percent off all its fall and winter merchandise, including lines like Nicole Miller, Tracy Reese, and LuLuLame. (Ongoing while supplies last. Highland Park: 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802.)

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

BlackBlue Winter Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. They’re also offering 20 to 50 percent off on select fall/winter 2009 clothing and footwear. brands include: Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn. While you’re there, check out the new spring arrivals. Fred Perry and Shades of Greige SS10 are already in; look for Filson bags and travel luggage and more Red Wing styles coming soon. (BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.)

This week in St. Paul shopping, Up Six Vintage has its semi-annual sale, plus ongoing sales and deals at Bibelot, Karma, BlackBlue, Picky Girl, FiveTwoSix Salon, and Stephanie’s.

[Up Six Vintage]

Tuesday-Sunday: Up Six Winter Sale
St. Paul vintage boutique Up Six kicks off its semi-annual winter sale this week before they stock their racks with spring stock. Take 20 percent off all jewelry and jewelry case items, 30 percent off all clothing and accessories, and 10 to 50 percent off furniture, housewares, home decor, and LPs. (Up Six Vintage, 157 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul. 651-917-0470.)

Thursday: Wacoal special offer at Herberger’s
Get a complimentary fitting in a Wacoal or b.tempt’d bra at Herberger’s at Rosedale and sign up to receive a monthly breast self-exam reminder. In return, Wacoal will donate $2 to local breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen Foundation, and $2 more for any Wacoal brand bra, shapewear, or b.tempt’d bra purchased. (Rosedale Herberger’s, 600 Rosedale Shopping Cnt., Roseville, 651-635-2600.)

Ongoing:

Smashbox Promotion at FiveTwoSix
Did you hear? FiveTwoSix Salon in St. Paul now carries Smashbox Cosmetics. To celebrate, they’re offering a makeup application for only $32, which then applies toward any Smashbox purchase through the month of March. (FiveTwo Six Salon and Gallery, 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839.)

Bibelot Special Offer
If you bring any gently-used clothing donations to any of Bibelot‘s four Twin Cities locations, receive a coupon for 20 percent off any regularly-priced clothing items. All donations will go to Arc’s Value Village. (Through March 31. Bibelot: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-0321; 2276 Como Ave., St. Paul. 651-646-5651.

[A look by kjurek couture; Image by Stacy Schwartz]

Karma Winter Sale
Grand Avenue boutique Karma is taking 25 percent off everything in the store, including regular priced items and spring arrivals, and an additional 25 percent off sale items. That includes locally-made dresses by one of our favorites, kjurek couture by Kimberly Jurek. (Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-291-1997.)

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (Ongoing while supplies last. Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

Winter Sale at Stephanie’s
Highland Park boutique Stephanie’s is taking 50 to 70 percent off all its fall and winter merchandise, including lines like Nicole Miller, Tracy Reese, and LuLuLame. (Ongoing while supplies last. Highland Park: 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802.)

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

BlackBlue Winter Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. They’re also offering 20 to 50 percent off on select fall/winter 2009 clothing and footwear. brands include: Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn. While you’re there, check out the new spring arrivals. Fred Perry and Shades of Greige SS10 are already in; look for Filson bags and travel luggage and more Red Wing styles coming soon. (BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.)

This week in St. Paul shopping, Patina has an outlet sale at Highland Park, Smashbox launches at FiveTwoSix Salon, Hot Mama has a week-long sale; plus ongoing sales at Karma, BlackBlue, Picky Girl, Flirt and Stephanie’s.

Thursday-Sunday: Patina Outlet Sale
What: Take 50 percent off or more on everything in Patina‘s Highland Park outlet this weekend. We totally heart the Profile Magnet Set (pictured above) and Lace Magnet Set ($11.97 each). Give yourself some R&R with the Soaptopia Vanilla Bean Salt Soak ($6.26), Vanilla Vixen Bubble Bath ($13.26) and the Spongelle Mandarin Pedi-Buffer ($9.06).
When: Thursday, February 25-Sunday, February 28
Where: Highland Park (lower level): 2057 Ford Parkway, St. Paul. 651-695-9955 and online.

Smashbox Promotion at FiveTwoSix
Did you hear? FiveTwoSix Salon in St. Paul now carries Smashbox Cosmetics. To celebrate, they’re offering a makeup application for only $32, which then applies toward any Smashbox purchase. (FiveTwo Six Salon and Gallery, 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839.)

Initially Yours relocates
Monogramming boutique Initially Yours has relocated from Grand Avenue to Selby and Snelling, giving it a fresh update. Beyond the plethora of items that can be personalized, the shop sells sleepwear, accessories and handbags. It joins Selby and Snelling neighbors Patina, A. Michele, Lula’s Vintage Wear, Up Six Vintage, Go Vintage, Everyday People, and Flirt. (Initially Yours, 1585 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-225-0900.)

David Tutera for Faviana

Saturday: David Tutera by Faviana Personal Appearance
Celebrity wedding planner David Tutera of WE TV’s My Fair Wedding will unveil his new bridal collection, David Tutera by Faviana at the Wedding Shoppe. Appointments are required to meet with Tutera. (9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., Feb. 27. The Wedding Shoppe, 1196 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-298-1144.)

[A look by kjurek couture; Image by Stacy Schwartz]

Just announced: Karma Winter Sale
Grand Avenue boutique Karma is taking 25 percent off everything in the store, including regular priced items and spring arrivals, and an additional 25 percent off sale items. That includes locally-made dresses by one of our favorites, kjurek couture by Kimberly Jurek. (Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-291-1997.)

Tuesday-Sunday: Bibelot Special Offer
If you bring any gently-used clothing donations to any of Bibelot‘s four Twin Cities locations, receive a coupon for 20 percent off any regularly-priced clothing items. All donations will go to Arc’s Value Village. (Feb. 23-28. Bibelot: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-0321; 2276 Como Ave., St. Paul. 651-646-5651.)

Tuesday-Sunday: Hot Mama Semi-Annual Clearance Sale
Get up to 60 percent off winter and spring merchandise at locally-owned maternity boutique Hot Mama‘s semi-annual clearance sale. (Hot Mama: Rosedale Center, 612-633-9400; 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-209-0222.)

[Lingerie from Flirt]

Through Sunday: Flirt Special Offer
Throughout the month of February, you can also receive a coupon for 25 percent off one item in March at Flirt. (Feb. 7-14. Flirt, 177 Snelling Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-3692 & Azia, 2550 Nicollet Av., Mpls. 612-813-1200.)

Ongoing:

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (Ongoing while supplies last. Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

Winter Sale at Stephanie’s
Highland Park boutique Stephanie’s is taking 50 to 70 percent off all its fall and winter merchandise, including lines like Nicole Miller, Tracy Reese, and LuLuLame. (Ongoing while supplies last. Highland Park: 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802.)

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

BlackBlue Winter Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. They’re also offering 20 to 50 percent off on select fall/winter 2009 clothing and footwear. brands include: Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn. While you’re there, check out the new spring arrivals. Fred Perry and Shades of Greige SS10 are already in; look for Filson bags and travel luggage and more Red Wing styles coming soon. (BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.)

With last weekend’s busy MNfashion Week kickoff in St. Paul now under wraps (check out my recap at l’etoile magazine), the buzz had dimmed to a murmur – that is, until today. The sheer amount of fashion events happening in St. Paul this weekend will tempt you to want to take a STAYcation. Here’s a St. Paul-specific guide to MNfashion Week events happening in our fair city.

British fashion icon Zandra Rhodes will be appearing at the Ordway

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE (continue reading…)

Grand Old Day is said to be the biggest Minnesota one-day festival of the year, and always boasts a great roster of live music. (Check out St. Paul STAYcation’s Juleana Enright’s blog for more on the event in general, and Arts & Culture blogger Kate Iverson’s Grand Old Day Art Guide.) Besides a chance to check out some of the Twin Cities’ best musical acts, art, and parades, Grand Old Day provides the perfect opportunity to explore everything Grand Avenue has to offer every day of the year – namely, shopping.

SHOPPING

Courtesy jenontheradar.blogspot.com

St. Paul’s two most fashion-forward boutiques, Karma and Picky Girl, are both hosting special Grand Old Day in-store events. Karma, which carries mid-priced designer lines like Trina Turk, Tulle, Velvet, and Betsey Johnson, will be setting up their pop-up shop Beeline Boutique in front of the store. Expect deals on clothing, handbags and accessories ranging from $5-and-under to $34. (867 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-291-1997.) Picky Girl (home of lines like Kenzie Girl, Covet and 213 Industry) will be featuring special in-store guests Allison and Ashley Abbott of AbraCadabra Vintage, a new locally-owned online vintage shop. They will be giving tips on how to mix vintage with modern styles, plus there will be a fashion show and storewide sales. (949 Grand Av. @ Hamline Av. 651-698-4107.)

The lesser-known but equally chic boutique Sorrayah Studios boasts a sophisticated mix of Free People and Ella Moss, and for the plus-size shopper, the popular line Big Shirt. (794 Grand Av. @ Avon St. 651-228-0414.)

More Grand Old Day specials:
Lillian’s on Grand: The designer-inspired shop will be having a doorbuster sale, free gifts to first 200 to stop in, free EcoDiva tote bag with purchase of $25+. (841 Grand Av. b/w Avon St. & Victoria St. 651-290-2040.)
Stella.blu: The bohemian-styled shop will have sales booths in front of the store and on Grand & Victoria in front of Dixie’s. (1104 Grand Av. @ Lexington Pkwy. 651-644-4830.)
Trade Winds: The free trade boutique will have storewide sales of up to 20% off plus bounce-back coupons. (857 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-293-9275.)
Hot Mama: The chic maternity shop is having a 10% off storewide sale. (867 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-209-0222.)

Some of my other fave shops to hit up when I’m on Grand:

My Sister's Closet

My Sister’s Closet, which is a consignment store built into one of the old Victorian-style houses that line Grand Avenue. It has a great selection of vintage dresses, shoes, hats, and jewelry, and is owned by two sisters, natch. (1136 Grand Av. b/w Dunlap St. & Lexington Pkwy. 651-222-2819.)

Flirt is a new-ish independent lingerie shop. If I had money to be so fancy, I would totes buy all my undergarments here. (1330 Grand Av. @ Hamline Av. 651-698-3692.)

Photo by David J. Turner courtesy Minnesota Monthly

Getting married seems to provide a great excuse to buy delicate jewelry, frothy veils, and sweet little handbags. If you’re so inclined, hit up Che Bella, one of the most sophisticated and sweet bridal boutiques I’ve seen. (611 Grand Av. @ Dale St. 651-209-8822.)

Locally-owned gift shop Quince has a decent mix of gifts, accessories, and clothing. They’re a little on the crunchy granola side but you very well could stumble upon a handmade treasure or super-cute baby gift. Plus it happens to be in the same building at Café Latte, so you can get your fancy caffeine fix at the same time. (850 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-225-9900.) For more gifts, there’s always locally-owned chain Bibelot (1082 Grand Av. @ Lexington Pkwy. 651-222-0321.)

The Grand Hand Gallery is primarily a fine art and sculpture gallery, but it also carries jewelry from some of my favorite local jewelry designers, Karin Jacobson, Brittany Foster, and Emily Johnson. Karin in particular does a lot of work with fine metal and semi-precious stones, but I fell so in love with the laser-cut plastic earrings she made for a Cliché show that I commissioned her to create oversized versions for the Voltage ’09 runway. (619 Grand Av. @ Dale St. 651-312-1122.)

A selection from the "Lotus Collection" by Karin Jacobson

I can’t say I’m the biggest fan of the crunchy-granola style of most organic goods, but there are definitely some items worth checking out at eco-friendly shop Eco-tique. There’s a lot you can do with the soft, basic organic scarves, and it’s a go-to for organic home items like bath towels. The latest addition is goods from St. Paul-based all-organic online cosmetics shop The Nature of Beauty. (1045 Grand Av. @ Oxford St. 651-222-3127.) For more eco-friendly goods, check out Ten Thousand Villages, which offers fair-trade jewelry, gifts and home décor from around the world. (867 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-225-1043.)

The Twin Cities have a huge Scandinavian and Irish heritage, so it’s no surprise there are a bunch of shops selling themed goods along Grand Avenue. For the Finnish, there’s Saga Living, which boasts the largest selection of Marimekko products outside of Finland. (1055 Grand Av. @ Oxford St. 651-290-8577.) For the Danish, there’s Danish Bohemia, a children’s apparel and accessories shop from Scandinavian designers. (1144 Grand Av. b/w Lexington Pkwy. & Dunlap St. 651-222-8383.) For the Irish, check out Irish On Grand for Irish-themed gifts (i.e., a gigantic Guinness tambourine). (1124 Grand Av. b/w Lexington Pkwy. & Dunlap St. 651-222-5151.)

Little known fact: I was a dancer for 13 years throughout my childhood, so I made regular visits to locally-owned dancewear shop Grand Jeté. Funny thing is, I still take inspiration from dancewear, whether it be little black leather oxford-style jazz shoes, ballet flats, leotards and tights. Why go to American Apparel when you can get the real deal? (975 Grand Av. @ Chatsworth St. 651-227-0331.)

Speaking of which, why buy the $200 military-inspired bag or jacket when you can get the real thing for $20? Now that Ragstock has dropped their St. Paul and Minneapolis Warehouse locations, the go-to now is Zimmerman Dry Goods. It’s a little rough around the edges, sure, but you’ll walk out with a steal. (1656 Grand Av. b/w Macalester St. & Cambridge St. 651-699-4273.)

J. Crew: What can I say, it’s a chain mall store, but such a guilty pleasure. Clean and preppy basics are always chic, especially for the fellas. And if Michelle O approves, so do I! (870 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-292-1470.)

SALONS AND SPAS

phresh salon spa

You’ll need a break from the craziness and heat of the Grand Old Day festivities, so what better retreat can you have than a facial or mani/pedi?

The ladies of phresh spa salon treated me to a facial yesterday. Phresh is located in one of the old charming houses of Grand Avenue, so had a much cozier feel than your typical sterile white-walled spa. My esthetician Jessica offered me two options – one, a dermatologist-approved treatment and the other an organic treatment, which I chose. After applying steam to my skin, she cleansed, toned, and exfoliated it. After she applied a Quince Ice Wine Masque, she treated me to massages to my feet, arms and shoulders. Finally, the best (and least fun) part: The extractions! Good to get that junk out. She then used this electronic machine that restored my skin’s pH balance and finally applied a Rose Whip Moisturizer, Cucumber Eye Gel, Honey Apple SPF, and Citrus Lip Balm. Today, my skin feels amazingly smooth and looks radiant once again! I may very well go back in the recommended 4-6 weeks for another. ($85-90 for 60-minute facial.)

Other salons and spas on Grand Avenue worth checking out:

Juut Salonspa: Regardless of the location, Juut’s got the best haircutters, colorists, estheticians and spa specialists around, plus all yummy Aveda products. (857 Grand Av. @ Victoria St. 651-222-4121.)
Grand Hair and Beyond: The full-service hair salon specializes in color and cuts. (1674 Grand Av. @ Cambridge St. 651-699-7074.)
Mella & Co.: This specialty spa is St. Paul’s only day spa; it’s dedicated exclusively to facials, ultrasonic, peels, and massage. (1204 Grand Av. b/w Ayd Mill Rd. & Dunlap St. 651-292-8406.)